Off the path

Michelle Woo
The Arizona Republic
Jul. 22, 2005 12:00 AM

It's their favorite kind of timeout.
After an NBA season packed with rehearsals, public appearances and crowd-pumping halftime performances at America West Arena, the Phoenix Suns Dancers take a break from the action to unwind and rejuvenate at the Lamar Everyday Spa in Scottsdale, their pampering place of choice.

Cozy and charming, with rattan sofas, a rock waterfall and beams of natural sunlight, the spa has become a peaceful heaven for the 14 young women, who indulge in such stess-busting treatments as massages, wraps, and scrubs. "This is our time to relax,"says dancer Janice Lindsey, 23, of Scottsdale, who often opts for a spa pedicure to soothe her weary legs and feet. April Jennings, 25, of Scottsdale, takes advantage of the facials, available for all types of skin. "We wear so much makeup when we're performing," Jennings says. "when you add in sweat and hair spray, your skin doesn't take it very well."

The spa is known for its relaxed, Caribbean style ambiance. Owner Heidi Lamar, seeking to create the ultimate escape for Valley residents, has declared the place a "cactus-free zone."

"So many spas in Arizona cater to the resort crowd with their Sonoran themes," says Lamar, who purchased the spa last year. "We want to cater to those already living here, those who want to get away to a tropical island but can't."

Lamar Everyday Spa
Popular treatment: Echo 2 Oxygen Facial, $95, which infuses the skin with medical oxygen, increasing suppleness and elasticity.

New treatment: Seven Sensations Cooling Pedicure, $75, a 75-minute treatment that includes Creative Nail Design's Cucumber Heel Therapy, cooling Marine Masque and Peppermint Foot Scrub. During the treatment, guests can heighten their senses by listening to soothing music while sipping on iced tea.

With any treatment: Guests can spend the day at the spa enjoying the whirlpool, outdoor pool, steam room and sauna. Guests not receiving a treatment can access the amenities with a $30 day pass.

Summer special: Present your Arizona ID and save $10 on any one-hour treatment when you make your appointment on any Monday through Aug. 31.