A Luxurious Bath is Perfect for V-Day Sulking or Sharing

As Valentine's Day approaches, it's inevitable that one segment of the population will look for a way to celebrate it while the other will search for opportunities to boycott it.

Either way, it's arguable that a great way to spend the holiday of love - either alone or with someone special - is in a great bath with mountains of bubbles and a few adult beverages.

As the demand for higher-end fixtures in apartments, condos and new homes continues to grow, developers and builders are realizing that a perfect place to add upgrades is the bathroom. The focal point there is, of course, the tub.

These days, though, it's more often known as the "bathing system." We've come a long way from the claw-foot basin in your great-grandmother's house with its rubber stopper and separate handles for hot and cold water. While those were great for bathing (and sharing), they were short on the bells and whistles available to the 21st century soaker.

Now, bathers expect jets at the very least. Unusual configurations and extra-large size are a plus, too. And never underestimate the appeal of combining a CD listening or television viewing experience with another passive activity like lounging in the tub.

Size is a priority with the whirlpool baths from Watertech, the Tennessee-based tub manufacturer. Almost all their models are designed with two bathers in mind and feature up to 12 jets to massage back, shoulders and feet. The company offers a variety of choices in trim and finish.

A great example of what's available at the ultra-high end of tub technology comes from the folks whose name is synonymous with jetted spas - Jacuzzi. Their Affinity model features two molded integrated ergonomic loungers, 10 whirlpool jets and more than 60 air channels, making your bath feel as fizzy as that bottle of Valentine champagne you just popped.

To enhance the experience, the Affinity features a CD/stereo system and 9-inch TV with a floating remote control and four integrated speakers. The factory-installed RapidHeat heater means you don't even have to wait for the water to get hot. And don't forget the underwater lighting, so you don't miss any of what's going on below the bubbles.

So, whether as a single or a pair, there are a number of options to soak your way through Valentine's Day. And when Feb. 15 rolls around, your thoughts might still be dirty, but at least your body will be clean.