Spa Etiquette
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Advance Booking
As day spas often fill up fast, book as far in advance as possible. Some
spas can accommodate you if you reserve treatments at check-in; others
suggest booking prior to your arrival. Want to avoid the crowds? Try
reserving a treatment during off-peak hours or during the week.
Medical Conditions
If you have any type of medical condition, be sure to mention it when
you book an appointment. Certain treatments may not be advisable for
you. Also, tell the technician if you're wearing contact lenses before
you have a facial.
Mixing Activities and Spa Services
On the day of treatment, try to stay out of the sun and avoid alcoholic
beverages. Also don't schedule a physically demanding endeavor after a
spa appointment. When in doubt, contact the spa to ask whether it is
advisable to engage in a particular activity prior to your appointment.
Punctuality
Ideally arrive 10-15 minutes early so you can enjoy an unhurried
transition into the spa. If you are late, your treatment time will be
shortened. After a treatment, it's customary to vacate the room within
five or ten minutes, though you are welcome to spend additional time
unwinding in the spa's quiet room or use the shower.
Therapists
If you prefer either a male or female therapist, but the spa fails to
ask, don't hesitate to let your choice be known. Also, if you have
enjoyed the services of a particular therapist on a prior visit, feel
free to request that person.
Nudity
The idea of going au naturel is very scary to some people, but don't let
that stop you from enjoying the spa. If modesty is an issue, call the
spa in advance to discuss its policies and suggestions. Some treatments
can be done while you're fully clothed, but others (such as massage
on the lower back area) are
best received in the nude or with under garments.
Communicating Your Preferences
Be sure to speak up. All aspects of treatment can be modified to your
taste: amount of light, music volume, temperature, and whether or not
you choose to have a conversation or enjoy the treatment in silence. If
you want the therapist to give you a deep massage, or be gentler, let
him or her know. Also, feel free to ask questions. Your therapist will
enjoy knowing your thoughts and clarifying any issues you may have. If
any part of your experience is unsatisfactory, first tell the therapist.
If the response isn't helpful, speak to a manager or the owner of the
spa.
Shaving
If you must shave, do so at least four hours before your scheduled
appointment, particularly if you're a man receiving a facial or a woman
receiving any kind of scheduled bodywork.
Eating and Drinking
Try not to eat for at least an hour before a treatment, and avoid the
consumption of alcohol on the day of a treatment. Drink plenty of water
before and afterward, especially if you plan to have a full body
massage. Water at room temperature is best recommended for the
body.
Using Shared Facilities
When enjoying the shower before or after a treatment, always remember
the other visitors who might be waiting. Respect their time and
the cleanliness of the area that you leave. Please leave spa
towels, slippers or robes in their proper places. We ask that you
do not shave your legs in the shower or face in the sinks of the
bathrooms.
Perfume
Because the emphasis should be on relaxation and because others may be
allergic, it's best not to wear perfume to spa services if possible.
Smoking
Smoking is not permitting in the building. We ask that if you must
smoke, to please do so outside the spa, but away from the door to
respect other visitors.
Pets
No pets or animals are permitted in the spa, unless they are required
due to a handicap. We must respect health and allergy issues from
all patrons and ask that you avoid bringing any animals.
Cell Phones
Silence cell phones and pagers before entering the spa or quiet areas as
a respect to all those receiving their services.
Conversation
In the quiet room and elsewhere, keep conversations should be kept at a
low volume.
Gratuities
Gratuities are not included. About 15 percent is customary, but
you may of course leave more or less, depending on the quality of the
service. You may leave the tip at the reception desk or give it directly
to the therapist. If you receive multiple services from different people
(a massage therapist, a facial esthetician, etc.), you may leave a
separate tip for each of them.
Eco-Awareness
Being respectful of your environment is part of the spa experience. Use
only the number of towels necessary: washing them uses water and
electrical, which are limited resources in some communities. |
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