It is not just the amazing products that smell great and help you relax. And it is definitely not the high prices nor the strict manager putting on the act of "I am too busy to deal with not regular clients" that specify a spa as one of top. Talking to peers while giving a massage to a client, no matter how the low voice, and at times gossiping about others, is surely a no-no! So let's get down to earth and discover the real thing...

Honolulu and Paris are great destinations but, surely not the only ones with that kind of beauty. Try some shunned destinations and you might get surprised with the quality and the service. Natural beauty, comfortably opulent hotels, tried and tested unknown restaurants are a private matter, not the advertisers'.

If you haven't visited famous label bazaars, do so now. You will discover a wealth of choices at amazing prices, not affected by the show-off attitude of the high street stores. And make sure you visit the showrooms of the new talented designers before they become famous and ridiculously expensive.

Maybe it's time to return to the good old fashioned and sort of posh-like sports such as tennis, sailing, jogging, fencing, skiing (with a helmet), a set of dumbbells, etc. Remember that the weird-looking, torture-reminding equipment found in the gyms, do not exercise all the muscle groups as they cannot imitate natural movement unless you pay a fortune on a personal trainer who is actually qualified and not just good-looking.

Broaden your cultural horizons by engaging in mind- challenging activities: interesting lectures and scientific debates, literary readings, theatrical plays and films at the cinema, operas or visits to art galleries are all ways to develop both personally and culturally.

Your home is your personal business as well – suggestions by friends or specialists on the latest fashion can only block your energy. A home is a sanctuary when you invest in it enough time (and less money) so it reflects your own personality and taste, and becomes an extension of who you really are.

Hidden little spots, suburban eateries or restaurants, a drink in an underestimated bar can prove to be great value for money and for your taste buds. Going after what is advertised and recommended with pompous expressions by the ones who "know it all" is a lost time and treasure hunt with no treasure buried...

Gone are the days of those exuberantly expensive gyms, offering the world within four walls. Inner peace, calmness and a relaxed mind can only be searched for with a torchlight in the latest pilates or yoga or aqua yoga activity. Good old-fashioned walking in quiet neighbourhoods or gardens adds much to your meditation and to your fitness levels.