I have rediscovered the sparkle that has gone missing over the last decade of air travel. It cost me, but it was worth it.

What has gotten me looking forward to a stopover at the airport between flights? Massage! Massage! Massage!

I stumbled upon this trip-enhancing experience recently at the Washington Dulles International Airport. There was a four-hour wait for my connecting flight. What to do? Eat, read magazines, get exercise pulling my carry-on around? Then I saw the peach pink neon sign that glowed “Massage Bar”. Two of my favorite words!

I became on instant devotee of the massage stands that now populate many international airports. I’m a massage addict to begin with so getting one at the airport was no big stretch. What was the leap was leaving my clothes on and having the public stampeding by.

The Massage Bar at Dulles offered several packages for the traveler on the run. I opted for the 30-minute back massage and 20-minute foot massage for a total of $59. The chair was super plush and comfy and Renee, the certified massage therapist, inquired about the pressure I preferred. I specified that I wanted her to focus on my shoulders (laptop trapezoid muscles climbing up to my ears.) She started gently and then applied pressure. Her elbows became well acquainted with my tense muscles. Soon the clickity-clack of high heals and whir of roller bags faded into a faraway place.

My favorite moment was when Renee draped an aromatic heated flax seed wrap on my neck and shoulders as she rubbed my feet. Pampered bliss! It completely erased my annoyance that I would be arriving at 1 am at a destination I had never been to before and would then have to drive for two hours in a tin can of a Smart Car. (In hindsight, I should have kidnapped Renee and brought her with me).

SIDEBAR:

Cost: This is definitely going to be a budget line item for all my trips from now on! Rates range from $15-$59 and you can get combo packages.

Details: Customers remain fully clothed while receiving seated massage service to their neck, shoulders, back, arms, and hands and it does not include the use of oil or lotions. All their therapists are Licensed/Certified Massage Practitioners.

The Massage Bar has six airport locations.