If you’re running out of ideas for your annual get together with your BFFs, check out the Complete Idiot’s Guide to Girlfriend Getaways by Lisa Kasanicky for a fresh perspective of what’s available for small groups.  Kasanicky helps you choose a theme like a retail shopping outing in New York (consider a Garment District Diva Tour), Chicago or Santa Barbara; a learning vacation (painting, cooking or photography workshops); or a weight loss trip that promises to nourish both mind and body (think creative spa treatments, healthy gourmet dinners, fitness classes and meditation).  There is “water therapy” for those seeking a little more adventure: sea kayaking the San Juans, snorkeling and diving in the Florida Keys, or rafting in the Smoky Mountains.  “Nothing but Beach” focuses on “where to plop” on Cape Cod, Sarasota and Kauai.  If you and your friends think it’s time for a volunteer vacation and don’t mind working and performing daily chores, Kasanicky suggests volunteering for a few days with the American Hiking Society or the Best Friends Animal Sanctuary in Utah.  If everyone agrees that horseback riding is the way to go, try wrangling at a working cattle ranch in New Mexico.

Kasanicky researched the themed destinations and recommends places to stay with contact info, rates, and pricing of package deals.  She provides a good beginning point to get your conversation started.