Boston - October 20, 2006

The Cure

Saldare Spa

The stupid T won’t take your Charlie Ticket. You spilled your Dunkin’ regular all over your cream-colored leggings. And those goofballs at work are too busy quoting The Departed to get to a meeting on time.

Ever seem like living in Boston is harder than it should be?

Remember why you do with a massage at hidden gem Saldare Spa. Owner Nicole Ricci, who’s been running this South End spa for close to five years, stays off the beaten path (as in far from Newbury) in every way. The rooms are comfy without feeling frilly, the space is small but uncluttered, and the services are absolutely no-nonsense.

Ricci kneads and twists your muscles ’til they’re fluff with her deep-tissue treatment, while Edie Snow’s Asian body work is enough to make you forget about traffic on the Pike.

Oh, yeah, and the prices are much friendlier than most ($80-$90 per hour), leaving a little extra in your wallet.

Now go buy yourself a cupcake and quit complaining.

Saldare Spa, 1244 Washington Street, South End (617-423-2722).