Issue Date: December 7, 2003

TRAVEL

You go (together), girlfriends!

Book a facial, browse the boutiques, and pass the popcorn while watching a chick flick. Girlfriends' packages are spreading as quickly as good gossip through the hotel industry. Women, it seems, want to schmooze, shop, share and just be together.

Reserve "Girls Just Want to Have Fun" at the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago and get a room prepped with chocolate-covered strawberries and spa lotions. The package includes a makeover at a Neiman Marcus cosmetic counter, a goody bag of face products, free clothing tips from a personal shopper and a lush dessert in the hotel's lounge.

The Westin Kierland Resort and Spa in Scottsdale, Ariz., offers four Essence of Women getaway packages (spa, golf, sleepover and shopping).

Just steps from Central Park, New York's Pierre Hotel proffers a "No Boys Allowed" package including breakfast, shopping at Barneys (you get free cosmetic samples and a beauty consultation), and a complimentary pay-per-view "chick flick" complete with popcorn, soda and candy.

With "Gals Just Want to Have Wine" at the Hotel Vintage Park in Seattle, a complimentary manicure-pedicure at a local spa is paired with a tour of wineries and an evening wine-tasting reception.

The plethora of choices makes it easy to bond with your bosom buddy.

-- Candyce Stapen