Three major Big Sur spas -- the Ventana Inn & Spa, Esalen and Post Ranch Inn -- have escaped damage from the Basin Complex Fire in California. Wildfire came within a few hundred feet of Ventana. Buildings were not harmed by the wildfire but landscaping and wilderness areas suffered damage. It is currently refreshing and revitalizing. Cielo restaurant will open for lunch Saturday July 19, and the property itself will reopen August 1. Esalen is reopening July 18.

Jurlique, a terrific skin care line made with ingredients from certified organic and biodynamic farms in South Australia, is celebrating the debut of its new Biodynamic Beauty line with a renewal-themed contest. Share a story of how you have renewed nature, your neighborhood or community, or yourself -- and win a trip to visit Jurlique’s farms. Prize winners will be selected from three regions -- US/Canada, Australia, and the UK -- on the basis of quality. The deadline is Aug. 15, 2008. Prizes are:

• A trip for two to South Australia for an authentic harvesting experience, with airfare, accommodations and spa treatments, in January 2009. (One from each region.)
• $1000 worth of product, including our Biodynamic Beauty line. (Two from each region.
• $50 online Gift Certificates (25 from each region).