Essential Spa Etiquette

A spa visit is a wonderful treat for your mind and body. If you’ve never had a visit to a day spa, you’ll want to brush up on spa etiquette before you go, so that you’ll have fewer surprises. Knowing what to expect beforehand can make a big difference in the overall quality of your visit, and facilitate a more relaxing, rejuvenating and rewarding visit. Here are a few things to know if you are planning a spa retreat.

Arrive Early
Depending on the amenities available at the spa, and the treatments you have scheduled, you should arrive 30 minutes to several hours before your scheduled treatments. The reason for this is that you will most likely need to fill out paper work and give yourself time to change into a robe. If the facility is an upscale resort establishment, you may also want to arrive early enough for a tour of the facility, or enjoy some time in the pool, hot tub, or steam room before your treatment. Ask about the amenities when you book your appointment, so that you’ll know how to plan your arrival time.

Don’t Intrude On Other Guests
Day spas are built for the express purpose of relaxation and rejuvenation. It’s hard to become mentally enveloped in your treatment when the person sitting next to you is talking on the cell phone, texting, reading email, or similar activities. Turn your electronic devices off. If you really feel like you need some quiet activity during your treatment, try doing a word search, filling in a crossword puzzle, or reading a book or magazine. These activities are less distracting to other guests. Also, whenever you speak, make sure to use a quiet voice so that you allow others to continue to focus on their own treatment. The best way to enjoy your day spa experience is to limit distractions.

Don’t Forget To Tip
It is customary to tip about 15-20% at day spas. Some spas include the tip in your treatment charges. Make sure you know whether or not this is true in your case. However, if you think your therapist has provided exceptional service, you can still tip even if the tip is included in your charges.

Conversation
When you are at the spa, your comfort and preferences are top priority. You may choose to converse with your therapists or to be silent. Either way, the therapist should take your lead in this. If you are in a room with other guests, speak in a low voice. If other guests prefer silence, be courteous to their wishes.

Come Prepared
Some types of treatments may be more successful if you refrain from taking certain medications such as antihistamines, or anti-inflammatory medicines. It may also be important to avoid alcoholic beverages for a certain amount of time prior to your appointment. Be aware of diet and chemical restrictions in advance, and follow them.

Bring A Friend
If you are going to the spa for the first time, you may want to bring a friend who has been to the spa a few times. That way, you’ll be more at ease and feel like you can ask her questions if you don’t feel comfortable asking your therapist or spa staff.

---