Six Popular Reasons to Enjoy a Day Spa

Today, so many of us lead very busy lives no matter what our profession or circumstances, we all could do with a welcome break or relaxation when the opportunity arises. Well, why not take a trip to a day spa for some well-earned rest and relaxation, plus enjoy any of the range of therapies you are likely to encounter on your therapeutic experience?

Here are just some of the reasons you should maybe consider attending a day spa or for a longer therapeutic spa holiday break.

Get Healthy and Restore Balance

Day spas are a healthy way of restoring balance back into your body through many of the treatments on offer at your chosen day spa. There you will be treated by a professional practitioner who will discuss your needs and requirements, plus any health issues you might have before you enjoy some of the many treatments on offer.

Relaxation and Stress Reduction

Modern day spas are a great way to relieve day-to-day stresses and strains from work and our hectic lifestyles. This can be achieved through many of the therapeutic treatments available, with various massage treatments being some of the most popular.

Lose Weight

Certain day spas will be able to assist in your fitness and dietary requirements, with the aim to assisting you to regaining a targeted weight. This can be monitored and tailored to suit your lifestyle, plus many of the current spa treatments available could assist in your weight loss programme.

Detox

We are all aware if we detox our bodies periodically, it will assist in our wellbeing and re-energize our body once again. Detoxing can take many forms, both internal and external and there are now many therapeutic treatments which offer detoxing capabilities. External treatments available include, therapeutic body wraps, mud treatments, with various face and full body rituals.

Take a Friend or a Loved One

Make your spa experience memorable by taking a friend or a loved one, so you can share your spa experience and share the rewards of a day or a weekend break at your chosen spa location.

Give a Spa Break as a Gift

Why not give a give a spa break as a gift or a present to someone you love? Most day spas offer the facility to gift a spa treatment, usually by way of pre-paid vouchers. This could be the perfect birthday or anniversary gift to your partner, a parent or a way to say thank you to a friend.

Chocolate Spa Treatments - Pamper Yourself Today!

Pampering yourself at least once a month can relieve your stress and rejuvenate your body inside out. So why not indulge your equally stress-relieving sweet tooth at the same time by having a chocolate spa treatment? There are several spas and hotels nationwide that offer different spa treatments using chocolate as the main ingredient and theme. However, if you are on a budget and cannot afford to travel to the nearest chocolate spa, there are several homemade recipes you can use for your own chocolate spa treatment right in the privacy of your home.

Studies have shown that chocolates have anti-oxidants and minerals which promote good health inside out. chocolates contain a chemical called tryptophan which gives you that heady feeling when you eat chocolates. Aside from this, chocolates contains other chemical elements that can provide you with a relaxing, feel good and giddy sensation all over whether you eat or apply chocolates on your skin. Just the smell of chocolates creates brain reactions that promote feel good sensations.

Applying chocolate spa products on your skin has several health benefits such as:

* The cocoa butter that can be extracted from cacao beans, which are used to make chocolates, is rich in fatty acids. Facial or body spa treatments with cocoa butter can provide great softening effects on your skin.
* Glycerides are ingredients which can also be found in cocoa which provide moisturizing lipids and fats. These will help plump and firm your skin.

Nowadays, there are several spas and hotels that offer different chocolate spa treatments such as facials, body treatments, body wraps, manicure, pedicure and massage. These chocolate spa treatments can provide you with:

* anti-aging benefits such as lightening or diminishing wrinkles,
* remove harmful radicals and
* leave your skin looking fresh, glowing and younger-looking.

One of the most popular places for a chocolate spa treatment is The spa at the Hotel Hershey. Who else knows chocolate more than Hershey? They offer different types of spa treatments but of course the best one you can get is their "Everything chocolate" experience. It includes:

* Whipped Cocoa Bath - $40 worth of 15 minutes soak into foaming chocolate milk bath for softer skin and an experience to indulge in a one of a kind Hershey chocolate experience
* Chocolate Hydrotherapy - for 25 minutes and $55 you will hydrate and moisturize your skin in a very unique way
* Chocolate Bean Polish - 30 minutes of blissful skin exfoliation using cocoa bean husks and walnut shells plus softening Cocoa Body Moisturizer prized at $65
* Chocolate Sugar Scrub - 30 minutes worth $65 of sweet chocolate scrub that can leave your skin silky smooth
* Chocolate Fondue Wrap - wrap yourself for 60 minutes with the spa's exclusive formula made of warmed moor mud and essence of cocoa. It is $115 worth of luxurious body brushing, fondue application, body wrap for a total effect and a Vichy Shower to rinse
* Cocoa Massage - you can choose to have a 50 minute or 80 minute massage of Swedish massage using the Hershey's chocolate scented massage oil. Prices are $100 for 50 minutes and $160 for 80 minutes.

3 New Spa Treatments for 2012

Treating yourself to a relaxing spa session is an excellent way of unwinding from the stresses of daily life. You may think you are familiar with every spa treatment under the sun but, looking forward to the New Year, we have discovered some innovative new methods that are being offered by spas around the world.

1) There is an increasing trend of some experimental spas beginning to offer multi-sensory treatment. One centre in Pennsylvania has started advertising something known as a Tibetan sound massage. Using Tibetan singing bowls, this intriguing new treatment is designed to 'balance the body' through vibrations from the traditional instrument. Another US resort puts an even greater emphasis on sound, combining the therapeutic effects of music, rhythm and the sounds of nature to assist relaxation. Perhaps even more intriguing is the resurgence in popularity of some ancient Ayurvedic treatments, which uses colour therapy to correct chakra imbalances. With otherwise traditional massage and sauna techniques now mixing light and sound together to create a very different kind of health experience, multi-sensory therapy certainly seems to be the new craze in spa treatment for 2012.

2) According to a new breed of 'coaching' practitioners, effective spa-like healing is even available on your computer screen. If you have been to a far-flung destination on holiday and visited a spa, it is now sometimes possible to continue your treatment at home. With coaches offering advice on everything from sleeping patterns to eyebrow grooming, you could choose to abandon traditional spas in favour of e-mail. Although these techniques could be an effective method of sticking to health routines you became familiar with whilst away, it is important to keep in mind that taking this option will mean you do the work - at a spa, it is all done for you!

3) If a 'starfish sparkle manicure' or 'ice-cream pedicure' doesn't sound quite like your sort of thing, that may be because they are two examples of new spa treatments that have been specifically designed for children. Spa sessions for under 18s are becoming increasingly common, with some resorts offering full days dedicated to their younger customers. There is a spa in Hawaii which also offers parents the chance to sign up for baby massage classes. This new brand of treatments does not yet seem to have caught on in Britain, but may be an interesting activity for your family to try if you are on a holiday in the US!

Korean Spas Are Truly a Gem

Exactly what goes on in Korean spas? They are not your typical spas where you relax in a waiting room before your treatment while wearing a comfy white robe all while sipping on unlimited cucumber water. Korean spas are a unique, cultural, all-inclusive experience and one that a real spa aficionado would appreciate. Not only do they provide excellent treatment in clean facilities, they expect you to stay and relax for however long you want. The bigger spas are even 24 hours, and your admission includes a free place to sleep. You might think this is odd, but this is part of the culture and is represented as a second home.

What is unique about Korean spas versus American spas like Burke Williams or Glen Ivy's is that you have to be naked. Of course the spa is gender segregated for the facility pools and the bathhouses. There is also a co-ed area in which you would wear their provided uniform which includes a t-shirt and a pair of shorts. The co-ed area boasts their traditional, specialty rooms like the Red Clay room or the Ice Room, the common area where people can watch television or use the provided computers to surf the internet, the restaurant where you can order authentic Korean food, and finally some have a sleeping area if they are open 24 hours. The Korean spa experience is calming and one can use as much time to get to that state of pure, stress-free, relaxed state of mind.

Korean bathhouses have been part of Korea's culture for centuries. Initially these bathhouses were for the privileged to take part in bathing in special aromatic scents and to scrub their bodies to become whiter. Now they are around for people to relax and unwind but also a place to socialize with friends and family. Parents bring their children and scrub each other's backs, and this is their bonding time. Friends go together and vent about their days while sitting in the Jacuzzi. People even make friends at the spa because they see the same faces monthly or even weekly.

Korean spas are known for their popular treatment which is their body scrub or commonly referred to as the akasuri scrub. The masseuses will thoroughly scrub you in every place imaginable, so this is not for the shy or faint at heart. They use special scrubbing gloves that will make your skin feeling silky smooth and you'll walk out of there feeling like you're a couple shades lighter. The whole concept of the scrub is to make you feel just that - cleaner and whiter. The newer facilities will allow your scrub to be in a private room with just your masseuse, but many spas still have a scrubbing area that will accommodate three or four tables. Again, this is not for people who are uncomfortable in their own skin. The masseuses mean business, and they will maneuver your body to clean certain areas and you might have to do this next to some stranger who's also in a compromising position. Their technique might be strange, but it guarantees results. Your skin will feel just as smooth as a baby, and you'll also feel relaxed because a scrub also comes with a scalp massage.

What is even great about Korean spas is how affordable the services are. A scrub at a new facility will range from $30-$45, and it will include free usage to the showers and pools and the specialty rooms. If you just want to pay admission to use the main facility and not get any treatment done, it will probably only cost you $15-$20. Many of the spas in major cities have already connected with deal sites like Groupon or Living Social. The trend and popularity of these spas have really grown the past few years, and even celebrities enjoy spending time at Korean spas. Emmanuelle Chriqui from Entourage was quoted in Women's Health Magazine that she likes to visit a Korean day spa. Although the majority of spa goers are middle aged Korean women, many of the younger generation are trying it out and finding that they like the experience. If you're curious about Korean spas, just try it one day. Go with a friend (but note, you'll have to see your friend naked), and make it fun spa event. I have to warn you though; it's quite addicting!

The Correct Foot Spa Massager For Personal Total Relaxation

The Best foot spa massager basically is one of all those products that seem to be a lot more of a lavish than a must have. Still, in today's chaotic world, with a downturn in economic exercise and big unemployment, it might really be a existence keeper. These days persons are extremely in excess of tired, over performed and just simple stressed out. This is a nice luxurious to go out plus get the Best massage or certain type of bath treatment that can make you be thousand percent much better. But, spa therapies are not cheap. One of the particular downsides to intending to the spa is thinking how well they cleanse out their system. There have in fact been circumstances where foot spa treatment options were not completely clean from the last patron and things like staph illnesses could be spread.

But, however that's a most awful case scenario of course. A great time that you might do for you and at your house is to operate with foot spa foot massager or High Quality Body massager . These kinds of devices are small and not overpriced. In fact you can pay for one product as little as actually one visit to a spa treatment. Then you can have one to apply over and over once again.

Many individuals don't comprehend how many crucial benefits you can certainly get from kneading your feet. There are trigger points in your feet that maintain a wholesome liver and heart. The truth is, the trigger factors in your feet are so properly integrated into its rest of your system that because basically they are so regularly neglected, your human body suffers for this cause. Many of any ancient areas have been practice foot massages for centuries. It makes realistic sense simply because as humans, we actually stand, walk plus run on our feet all morning -long.

Exactly what are some of the actual features of a new foot spa massager? This most evident one is sort of "ribbed" roller it massages the underside of your feet. Assuming you've never tried out one, you can not imagine the unbelievable bliss from sensation this excellent massage. One other feature of these devices allow for detoxification of the body. Presently there are exfoliants as well as minerals which draw out your toxins from the body. All the minerals are placed into any bin of your massaging device. Even though you sit in that location getting some sort of foot massage, it's also taking the harmful toxins out of ones own body. Those toxins can certainly include alcohol or perhaps other environmental harmful toxins that have gotten in to your system just simply from breathing!

Spa And Therapeutic Massage Flyers

Success in the spa and massage therapy business is largely driven through word of mouth recommendations from satisfied customers. Unfortunately, the process required to establish a loyal and substantial clientele can take far too long. To increase store traffic and gain referrals more quickly, well designed spa and massage therapy flyers will help promote a business and its services to a multitude of potential customers.

For the cost conscious therapist or business owner, spa and message therapy flyers are the perfect marketing choice. Since they are inexpensive to produce, frequent printing of updated editions will keep the message fresh and timely. A well designed marketing plan that includes aggressive flyer distribution will ensure that the company name and logo remains recognizable to prospective clients.

Flyer Design

There are a number of design elements that should be included in message therapy and spa flyers to attract and hold the recipients attention.

- Use Color instead of Black and White: Although color printing may be marginally more expensive, color flyers are far more eye catching than black and white. Color printing also conveys a sophisticated business image and a sense of legitimacy.

- Include an Attention Grabbing Headline or Photo: An appealing photograph and an interesting headline will draw the readerÂÂÂ’s attention. Always try and place this type of information in the center of the page where it will be the most conspicuous.

- Contact Information: In addition to the business name, location, email address, and phone numbers, always include relevant practitioner license numbers and the company logo. This can also be an area where a short bio of the owner and key employees can be incorporated.

- Highlight Products and Services: Since customers are savvy in Detroit, spa and message therapy flyers should include a detailed list of services, prices and benefits. Unique specialties can be detailed along with descriptions of the parlor and its atmosphere.

- Special Offers and Call to Action: Discount coupons can serve as an excellent incentive to make a phone call or book an appointment. Whatever the mechanism, the flyer should compel the recipient to seek further information about the business or its services.

Flyer Printing

For salon owners in Ann Arbor, Dearborn, Downriver, Flint, Grand Rapids, Lansing, Royal Oak, Troy and Detroit, spa flyers can help to raise visibility and attract new customers to the business.

Day Spa Retreats And What To Look For

Day spa retreat epitomizes the best day-time relaxation program that one can ever take. In addition to the pure water that is offered for drinking and bathing, one is also treated to special water based treatments to enhance one's health. By the end of the personal care treatment offered in the retreat, one feels rejuvenated and more at peace with the world.

The staff ideally consists of professional therapists who cater to the specialized needs of customers. Day spas are often recommended to people who have hectic lifestyles that compromise their ability to relax and remain at ease. Doctors often advise their stressed patients to try out a day spa retreat that will revitalize them through the abundance of pleasurable treatments that are offered.

The services that are typically offered include facials that utilize a range of cleansing products that are designed to relax the face muscles, reverse the aging process and clear the skin.

Medical practitioners advise patients who are stressed out or frustrated to go for a day spa retreat that has the benefit of revitalizing them and giving them the chance to experience enjoyable treatments. Facials are commonly offered and are carried out using special products that help the face muscles relax, slow down aging and cleanse the skin.

If you are the sort of person who is a tan lover but cannot afford to sit under the sun for stretched amounts of time in order to attain the tanned look you have several options including specialist UV tanning booths, plus 'fake' tan booths. The latter option is safer but can also give you that golden glow you desire.

Taking full advantage of a spa retreat guarantees that one will leave feeling like a new and refreshed person. Salon services are provided in a truly relaxing manner by incorporating other day spa services. Aside from hair styling, people can also enjoy the experience of relaxing pedicures and manicures. Giving someone a gift voucher for a day spa retreat is a highly rewarding way to pamper a loved one and give them a chance to feel special.

Sensational treatments are associated with professional day spa treatments that ensure customers have a completely relaxing day. It is also a good idea to reward oneself with a day spa retreat from time to time so as to escape the hassles of the demanding lives that most people lead. It is a worthwhile treat that is a pleasure to invest in.

The body is first polished, and then wrapped in a thermal blanket. In the meantime, one gets to enjoy a scalp massage. After some time, the thermal wrap is removed and the body massaged with mineral water. The skin is then hydrated using the suitable moisturizer.

Treat yourself and go on one of the the many day spa retreats around the country now.

Day Spa Facial - Treatments To Know Before Your First Visit

There are different day spa facial treatments to try so you can relax for an hour or two while your face is given the care it deserves. But if you are just new to these types of treatments better check out these types of facial services before you finally call for an appointment soon:

Basic Facial

This is the simplest yet a good way to treat your face to a treatment that compose of performing light exfoliation procedure, then doing pressure point massage on the vital parts of your face. Applying hydrating lotion is done at the end of the procedure for softer skin on forehead, cheeks and chin.

Signature Facial

This facial spa treatment usually carries the brand of the day spa. They usually use their own brand of creams and lotions in this treatment, depending on your skin type. Most of the time, they also include facial masks right after the procedure to close down and minimize pores.

Detoxifying Facial

This is what others call as anti-acne facial treatment. This involves thorough check up of your face before working on their customized procedure to address your concerns over these bigger acne. This involves cleansing, opening of the pores and extracting these pimples to minimize the appearance of breakouts.

Half of the procedure will require them to properly apply a mask on your face, clean it again and apply lotion based on your skin type to finally close the pores and prevent exposure to infection after extraction.

Whitening Facial

If you want to have a fairer look, then you need to attend sessions of day spa facial whitening treatments to achieve the results you wanted. They will provide you with the necessary tests and check ups you need prior to this procedure. It is best to tell them if you have some allergies over facial lotions or cleansers before they begin so they can test some of their formulations safely on other parts of your body before applying these on your face for a fairer look.

Anti-Aging Facial

If your skin needs rescue from all the signs of skin aging, then this might offer a temporary relief for you. Same thing with whitening facial, the staff will definitely ask you some questions and examine your skin before you undergo this type of treatment. They might also take pictures of your face before starting the procedure for your reference and protection as well.

Aside from those included in the basic and signature spa procedures, you may also be given treatment to improve the production of collagen inside your body to help you achieve a younger-looking and healthier skin.

Just like the whitening facial, you may be asked to go back for some more sessions until you reach the look that you want out of this treatment. Most of the time the new day spa staff will provide you with a card or a small notebook to monitor the dates where you had your treatments as well as those improvements observed after each procedure.

Top Spa Trends - Wellness Spa Equipment, Organic Skin Care and Customized Spa Services

The ever-increasing demand for spas that provide health maintenance in addition to relaxation and beauty services has changed the way spas do business. Many spa visitors are not just looking to be pampered. They want healthy living, fitness, personal growth, eco friendly, natural pain relief, weight loss, organic skin care programs and more. This shift is creating some fascinating new spa therapy trends that indicate consumer choice is a high priority. In today's market spa-goers want superior quality equipment, educated service providers with the highest credentials and a gorgeous location with a luxurious, comfortable atmosphere. Creativity, innovation and a commitment to excellence are the keys to starting and operating a successful spa.

Organic skin care Products and organic massage therapy Oils, Creams and Lotions

Around the world people are thinking more about the beauty and skin care products they put on and in their bodies. Successful spas must think not only about the quality of their estheticians, massage therapists and other staff, but also about the quality of the products they use. organic skin care treatments, such as organic body wraps, facials, footbaths and more are in high demand.

Massage therapists are also now using organic massage therapy oils, creams, lotions and muscle rubs made with organic ingredients such as natural healing herbs and therapeutic essential oils. According to the HealingLifestyles.com article "spa trends 2008 The Evolved spa" by writer Margie Goldsmith, Tracy Lee, vice president of spa development for Auberge Resorts says, "spas are positioning themselves with more green products, and many skincare companies are getting rid of paraffins and sulfites. Today's savvy spa consumer does not blindly accept the label, 'all natural.' A product needs to be greener, more pure, and must provide more proof."

Spa equipment and Commercial Fitness equipment created for Wellness

In 2008 spa visitors don't just want to look better, they want to feel healthier. Exercise equipment has long been a part of the spa experience but the kind of equipment spa-goers will find has changed. In addition to the traditional treadmills, exercise bikes and weight training equipment spas now provide fitness alternatives such as vibration therapy machines like the Power Plate and aquatic therapy equipment. spas are also offering hydrotherapy tables, hydrokinetic showers, skin scanners, infrared mineral lights, biofeedback machines, low level cold lasers and other equipment that promotes natural healing.

Natural Healing Herbs and Holistic Health Supplements for Detox and Natural Weight Loss

Many people visiting spas each year now understand the importance and benefits of an annual body cleanse. Detoxification has become a standard in the spa industry to improve health and achieve natural weight loss. In addition to traditional cleansing massage and detoxifying skin treatments spas now provide visitors with access to holistic health supplements, nutritional organic vitamins and natural healing herbs. It is essential that spa owners and professionals confirm the credibility and integrity of any detox and natural weight loss products they suggest to ensure safety for all spa-goers.

Customized Spa Treatments

In 2008 spa owners are seeing an increase in the demand for customized spa services. According to the International spa Association Ispa "customized relaxation" is in. "You can make almost anything your 'own' today from custom workouts built into your Nikes, fragrances blended to suit your nose or a zenned-out playlist on your iPod," states Ispa, "spas are creating unique experiences for their guests as well with 24 percent indicating that clients can book blocks of time instead of specific services. This time block allows them to create a treatment that is all their own from the music to the products to the room temperature."

Spa Luxury and the Comforts of Home

In her article " spa trends 2008 The Evolved spa", HealingLifestyles.com journalist Margie Goldsmith writes, "Guests used to come to a spa once or perhaps twice a year. Now, owners and renters are living the spa experience on a daily basis. Other lifestyle aspects are now being incorporated such as nutrition, sleeping well, retirement, and how you use your leisure time-things beyond treatments and fitness."

Sylvia Sepielli, a conceptual spa designer states, "There's a movement towards integrating more health aspects within the spa experience, and the term 'spa' has been branching out to include more than just fitness and therapies. We're seeing more mixed-use property, resorts with home-stay components, and a big part of that is the spa/lifestyle component." Goldsmith also mentions an increase in Girlfriend Getaways and Mother Daughter spa trips. As women begin traveling together more the residential living aspects such as full kitchens, in room yoga and fitness supplies, in room spa showers and tubs and access to wireless Internet will continue to become more popular.

Spas - The Total Canadian Experience

In a sense Canada has it all. It has great cities - Montréal and Vancouver being perhaps the best of a choice lot. In the immense countryside -- skiing, sailing and wilderness viewing that goes on forever. Because it is so large visiting Canada all in one trip is a massive undertaking.

Over 5,000 Kilometres separate St. John's, Newfoundland from Victoria, British Columbia (about the same distance separates London and Riyadh, or Tokyo and Calcutta).

To drive from one end of the country could take 7-10 days or more (and that assumes you're not stopping to sight-see on the way). A flight from Toronto to Vancouver takes over 4 hours.

When speaking of specific destinations within Canada, it is better to consider its distinct regions.

In this quite vast country it has most things including, because of the French influence, some amazing restaurants. But, above all, because of its fixation on the healthy life, Canada has a range of spas almost unrivalled elsewhere.

If you know that people come from the United States (especially from California) to Canada for spa treatments - some on a regular basis - then you begin to understand the attractions.

Note that although most of the country, by law, is bi-lingual even in the most French parts around Montréal you will never have a problem with the language.

Let us leave all thought of governments and politics and concentrate, instead, on spas and healthy living. Which is what many Canadians do.

BREAK OUT

Use of each language outside government varies widely across the country. In almost all of the province of Québec, as well as parts of New Brunswick and Ontario, French is the dominant language; in most of the rest of the country, English predominates. Montréal, Ottawa and Moncton have large concentrations of fluently bilingual people. Canada spans six time zones and borders three oceans and covers 9,017,699 sq km (3,481,753 sq miles). now promotes itself as a country of peace and governs itself independently. But it still has the British monarch as its head of state. And, no, that is not easy to explain.

For spa lovers Canada is pretty much the ideal country to visit. It has it has it all, scenery, wonderful sport, exciting cities. So how do you choose in this vast country?

A personal preference is Vancouver and Vancouver Island. Here is where the spa comes to near perfection.

Start by knowing here we are talking about two different destinations: Vancouver Island and Vancouver which is NOT on the island of the same name. Close - a few minutes way - but Vancouver is on the mainland. Both are wonderful places. But very, very different.

Vancouver Island rejoices in climate which is the mildest in Canada, with temperatures on the coast even in January being usually above freezing and in the summer the weather is warm but not oppressive - say 28-33 degrees Celsius. But there is a rain shadow effect so that the west coast typically is very wet -- Henderson Lake on the west coast is the wettest place in North America - down to very dry in the provincial capital of Victoria on the southeast coast's Saanich Peninsula. In a sense you can chose and if you bear in mind rain is most common in the autumn and winter you can be very precise.

Getting there is part of the experience for you can take an awe-inspiring seaplane over the Pacific coastal isles; a journey from Vancouver by ferry; or from Seattle aboard the high-speed ferry via the Strait of Juan de Fuca.

Near the centre of Vancouver Island is the 2,500 square kilometres Strathcona Provincial Park, which is part of a group of peaks that include the Comox Glacier. Note that Vancouver is not the only island in the area. There are several others.

For example, Galiano is a long and narrow island, the second largest of the Gulf Islands, and the driest. 25 kilometres long and 9 kilometres wide, it has a population of about 1.000 residents, while Saltspring Island, the largest, has a population of over 12,000.

As far as spas are concerned there are probably over thirty in the whole island group so you are not restricted for choice. Note most of them are destination spas - you stay there as if it was a hotel and some of them are on islands off Vancouver Island. There is a sort of alternative life-style feel about most of these spas. They are for get-away-from-it-all visits.

One great exception. The 1905 classic Willow Stream Spa at The Fairmont Empress is an urban hotel spa in Victoria on the island. It is a very modern spa which is located in something of a Victorian - in two senses of the word -- grande dame of a hotel, The Fairmont Empress.

Much of the clientele of the spa are staying at the hotel and many of them have come up from the United States - people from California for some reason make up the majority -- to experience a rejuvenation and a period of rest and calm.

If you stay at this hotel - and you should if you can afford it - you will be following in the footsteps of a very young Shirley Temple, Barbra Streisand, Harrison Ford and many others. And, yes, of course, it serves afternoon tea.

The spa itself - the Willow Stream -- is far more modern than the hotel and is a blend of traditional and contemporary designs. There is a waterfall and marble floors and soothing colours create. Your spa experience begins as you step through the doors into an elegant space.

All spa treatments begin with 'The Spa Ritual,' which is complimentary. The 30-minute ritual includes five minutes each in the Finnish sauna and steam room, followed by a 10-minute Hungarian bath and ten-minute rest with a glass of cold water.

Note that, as with the other six Fairmont resorts' Willow Stream Spas dotted around the country, it's definitely upscale and not inexpensive.

Luckily, locally there are places locally which are less expensive if not, perhaps, quite so gorgeous.

For example, less expensive and more relaxed, is the casual Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa. This ocean front resort and spa has views of Gartley Bay, Denman and Hornby islands and the snow-capped Coast mountains beyond.

The two-storey, 64-room hotel includes 36 new beachfront suites with beach rock fireplaces, driftwood-tone furniture, fir timbers and peeled cedar logs. The 14,000 sq. ft. spa has 22 treatment rooms, an outdoor pool, hot tub/sauna, fitness room and the Pacific Mist Hydropath.

Very relaxed and laid back.

Poets Cove Resort & Spa, is so secluded you have to take a ferry or water taxi, It is on South Pender Island, just off the east coast of Vancouver Island and overlooks Bedwell Harbour Resort and Marina. You can also take a water taxi from Sidney (on Vancouver Island) to Bedwell Harbour or travel by BC Ferries.

The hotel has a 22-room lodge, 15 seaside cottages and nine country villas.

Coastal Trek Vancouver Island, B.C. (2009) is for people who are not going to just laze in a spa. The family-run retreat in the Comax Valley is all about health and hiking. From a selection of about 100 nearby hiking options, a different hike is scheduled each day based on the interests and fitness levels of guests. Structured programs which include yoga sessions and healthy cooking classes are all part of the deal.

There are spa treatment rooms but healthy activities followed by a spa are more the theme of the retreat.

The there is Galiano which is 10 minutes from Vancouver by float plane, or 50 minutes by ferry. This is a quiet island refuge where the majority of island residents are engaged in tourism and the arts.

The Galiano Oceanfront Inn and Spa has its own dock and offers special spa and room packages. So you are staying in a hotel which is also a spa on an island which is near Vancouver and near Vancouver Island but not part of either.

Then there is Ocean Palm Spa, Sidney and yes, the address is often misspelled a if it was in Australia. This is a new resort spa environment for men and women, located at the Sidney Waterfront Inn and Spa.

Think of this spa as being totally focussed on spa treatments although, being part of an Inn, all the other facilities are available.

Again on Vancouver Island Oh Spa, Courtenay is on the banks of the Courtenay River, in the Comox Valley. It has a range of exclusive treatments and natural products which are, as it were, part of the ambience of the island.

Brentwood Bay Lodge and Spa is on an inlet in the heart of Victoria's wine country. The spa is called Essence of Life and some of its treatments work with locally harvested seaweed; heated basalt stones and aromatherapy.

And so it goes on. There are at least 30 establishments in this area but mostly they are more suited for a hotel stay/spa experience. Not places you would fly into for a three hour treatment.

Now we come to the city of Vancouver which is not on Vancouver Island, although very close, and is probably the most liveable city in the world. It is somewhat reminiscent of Hong Kong - one in five of the two million inhabitants is Chinese - but with more style and more understanding of design in an urban setting.

Because of the high percentage of Chinese population the Chinese food there is quite remarkable. The people of Vancouver think it is the best Chinese food in the world. In that they are wrong. But it is certainly quite, quite excellent.

As a designed city it is probably the best in the world. There is general agreement that Vancouver is one of the world's greatest cities. Certainly the most liveable city.

When it comes to spas the problem is counting them. Possibly over a hundred. Certainly every need is catered for and some of the spas are seriously world class.

A good example is Solace Spa which has all sorts of packages which include, Couples Romantic Getaway, Vino Therapy, Solace Signature Divine Bride, New Mom's Renewal. (If you run a spa in a highly competitive area you have to think of new and focussed treatments which make your spa unique. Plainly Solace has worked very hard on this aspect of spa management.)

Note that it is in the Holiday Inn so that, in a sense, it is both a residential and a day spa.

Vida Spas are big in Vancouver (there are three of them - Sheraton Vancouver Wall Center Hotel, Sutton Place Hotel and the Westin Bayshore as well as others in Whistler and Seattle.) There are seven different Ayurveda therapies are based on the idea everyone is typically dominant in one of three doshas (Vata, Pitta or Kapha). Ayurvedic treatments work from the inside out to bring your dosha into perfect harmony so you can enjoy optimal health. Vida also has an Ayurveda-inspired product line customized for the various doshas, and they send clients home with tips on how to eat for your dosha. For the record the writer's dosha is Vata.

Then, a considerable way away for it is right on the other side of the country, there is Montréal in the province of Quebec (which also contains the smaller Quebec City). Montréal is very French Canadian and has an amazing history, has more spas than you can easily count. Probably several hundred and almost all of them are day spas. Spend a few hours there and emerge refreshed, relaxed and in the perfect mood to enjoy the local cooking which is quite amazingly good. Probably because of its French heritage. Note that Montréal's Underground City is a set of interconnected shopping malls (both above and below ground) in and around downtown Montréal. It is the largest underground complex in the world. Go down there in the winter and the weather is totally irrelevant.

No point in listing all the spas in Montréal because there are so many.

Rather just a few examples from a very small area which is Downtown Montréal. You can then you make your own discoveries probably either in the hotel at which you are staying or very, very close nearby. There are that many spas.

Izba Spa is on the 12th floor at Hotel Le Crystal. We are told the Izba Spa incorporates the traditional Russian Banya (steam bath) with therapeutic massage and modern methods of holistic therapies to encourage health, facilitate rehabilitation and reduce stress.

Rainspa which is at Place d'Armes Hôtel & Suites 55 St-Jacques Street in Old Montréal has a Hammam - a traditional Middle Eastern steam bath. As well Rainspa offers high-quality paramedical treatments such as micro-dermabrasion, Intense Pulsed Light and VelaSmooth Spa anti-cellulite treatment.

Spa Savanna 4032 Notre-Dame West is very much the urban spa with a wide range of massage therapies and advanced skin care treatment.

Spa Eastman at 666 Sherbrooke West in Downtown Montréal was among the first urban spas in the city. Now it has been revamped but it still has staggering views from its panoramic lounge and offers a wide range of treatment.

Espace Nomad Holistic Spa at 4650 Boulevard St-Laurent calls itself Montréal's first organic spa. It offers a massage, yoga and spa treatments and a line of products inspired by Indonesian beauty rituals.

Relatively near to Montréal is Toronto which is a bustling modern city - the largest in Canada -- quite near to the smaller Ottawa which is the seat of government. The number of spas is, again, quite amazing. Well spoken of is Elmwood Spa Toronto which is in downtown Toronto and has couples' suites - the Royal and Sapphire Suites both have two treatment tables, fireplaces and in-room showers under gabled ceilings.

Or, if you prefer, getting away for it then it is a 90-minute from downtown Toronto to one of Canada's oldest and best known spas - Ste Anne's which is in Grafton, Ontario. This is a residential spa with outdoor hydro-therapy options include a large swimming pool, plus a year-round field-stone lap-pool and hot tub. Plus, of course, a full menu of treatments and therapies. Not inexpensive but a total experience.

Wrong to suggest that the only places you can have the total spa experience is Vancouver, Vancouver Island, Montréal and Toronto although the first three would have to be on any visitor's list. There are spas all over Canada.

Take Ottawa which is the government city with all that implies. Yet it has the Holtz Spa which is possibly one of the most authentic spa experiences in Canda. It has one special which is Spirit of the Forest. They describe it as a 'Vibrational Healing Experience which is a unique 80-minute experience involving the vibrational resonance of the essences of Canadian trees. Following the lineage of Bach Flower Remedies, tree essences are believed to have special healing qualities that speak to emotional well-being and vitality.'

Note that this includes a relaxing tree essence beverage post treatment.

Then there is Infinima in Ste Foy which is about a 15 minute drive from Old Quebec City. This is truly a 'green' spa in that it is all about minimising the use of electricity and maximizing the use of natural materials.

The décor is stunning and the treatments, as you would imagine, follow a routine of green, alternative practice. In fact, it is a total spa treatment which gives an excellent example of how to minimise the use of energy.

Then there is Spa Ofuro at Morin-Heights, Quebec which is, as it were, a Japanese themed 'nature'spa. Ofuro' has a full menu of spa services including exotic-sounding signature treatments such as Summo, Tao, Yin and Yang.

And so it goes. On and on. Spas in abundance in every city with perhaps the greatest concentration being in Vancouver and Vancouver Island. Once you have been there you will no doubt agree that Canada is one of the great spa destinations of the world. With the added plus of great cuisine, staggering scenery and a pleasant and welcoming population.

Tag : spa,canadian,experience

Captivating A Captive Audience - Resort Spa Marketing

In spite of the fact that guests often do not have the option to really leave a resort unless on a trip organized by the tour desk or renting a car and exploring on their own, clients do not simply come into the spa unless there there is a focus on bringing them in. While at the resort, guests are by choice and default limited to the activities they can find within the compound. Sports activities, entertainment, casinos, restaurants and bars, and of course the pools and beaches. All these distractions are immediate competition for the guest budget and attention. In spite of a captive audience, many opportunities are missed to educate, inform, promote and rebook clients for spa service while they could enhance their stay with a series of visits to the spa whether to take advantage of the amenities or to book services and make an improvement to their health, well being and overall vacation experience.

Educate

Although the spa world is growing and more and more guests are becoming spa savvy, the majority of resort visitors are not, and waiting on the ones who are familiar with the process, not hesitant to book treatments and intentionally seek out the spa is missing out on a substantial market potential. Many spas also provide very practical services for hair, makeup and nails and wait for the necessity to arise rather than proactively approaching their market. In general the first action item is to develop an educational program for guests who have never been to a spa or had a massage. This can entail direct hands-on trial experiences such as chair massages in the lobby or poolside, personal interaction with the service providers in a regular Q&A session in an accessible area or written material readily available "What you always wanted to know about a spa". De-mystifying and factualizing the spa experience often evens the way for men and women to take that leap of faith for a first-time visit. This information should be more detailed than the basic "spa-etiquette" in the menu and detail the experience discuss benefits and give testimonial to the service.

Inform

Too many comment cards are seen and statement heard with comments stating "I only found out you had a spa just before I left". Guests are overwhelmed in the beginning after a lengthy trip, and the obligatory resort tour with a wave from the bellman in the general direction of the spa does not do the trick. If at all possible a brief tour of the facility with a welcoming personal greeting from the manager or front desk needs to be incorporated. Guests who have never had a massage don't know the benefits. They will never translate feeling tired, sore or stiff into needing a massage. Here is where information needs to be provided. Men who have never had a facial cannot imagine the difference they feel and see after receiving professional services. Taking it to the next level is a personal call by the manager or a senior staff member to the new guest once they have settled in with the delivery of a small amenity together with the menu and an invitation to stop by to receive a personal tour and maybe even a taste of therapies offered. For some reason many resort spas don't bother to track their clients although a good experience often leads to repeat visits and loyal customers year after year. In knowing the preferences and reviewing treatments, spas operators can anticipate behavior and offer custom arrangements based on documented history.

Don't hesitate to make guests aware of the spa using different media. A call to action and an incentive is always a must. Tent cards will stand out better than flat menus that disappear into the standard room setup and a small gift will do wonders. Short videos shown on a flat screen in the lobby of spa treatment where guests tend to stand and wait will whet their appetite. Information should be readily available at the activities, front desk and with the concierge services who need to be briefed regularly, made part of the spa team and have regular treatments in the spa so they can genuinely recommend and generate personal packages for their guests. Placing spa information at key points should be a daily ritual. Breakfast is a great time to make the rounds an connect with guests while they plan their day. Knowing availability and being able to book a service right then and there is a great way to kick off the day.

Promote

One of the most overlooked opportunities to promote the spa are hotel employees themselves. Often there are hundreds of potential ambassadors that have guest contact all the time. Every spa should tap into this resource. Spa managers are encouraged to become part of every new hire orientation, making a point of giving every new hire a tour of the facility, a menu and an understanding what the basic services are about, nipping any second-guessing in the bud. Spa managers should make a point of attending staff and department meetings presenting new products and services and giving team members a direct experience as often as possible. Most often it is easy to identify those employees who by the nature of their position or their personality and personal preferences become key referrers to the spa. Identifying those individuals and developing a rewarding relationship will keep the flow of customers coming and the work will spread that it is rewarding to refer.

Conferences, functions and meetings offer a great opportunity to present the spa either in an introductory orientation or during breaks with small spa services for attendees. Inviting the facilitator, organizer for a complimentary treatment will always ensure that the spa is mentioned. Anticipating client demand is an important part of promoting spa services. Group arrivals are a great way to connect with guests while they stand in line to be checked in. Designing specific customized services for particular groups is a perfect way of saying "you are special to us". Groups are always booked well in advance and connecting with the group coordinator can provide valuable information on the anticipated needs.

A group of seniors will have other needs than a fam trip. What happened to creating a buzz with a guest tour of the facility? Setting the mood and making it a special experience for each individual guest will certainly bring them back for more. So it's not just: "Here's the locker room and the toilet and these are the massage rooms but we can't go there 'cause there's a treatment going on". It's a cup of tea and a personal conversation, interest in the guest and finding out what their needs are. Spa directors should be where the action is, where the guests congregate and where they can keep their finger on the pulse of what is going on. Analyzing the booking patterns might reveal slow times that can be worth promoting by offering a spa happy hour. From time to time hours of operation need to be reviewed if they are still capturing the available business. Weather plays a significant role. Rainy day specials and poolside services on sunny days can make a contribution to your revenue as can upgrades and special services such as sunblock application, hair masques for sun protection and packaging other available activities around the resort with dedicated spa treatments.

Rebook

Capturing the client at the beginning of their stay is always an opportunity to design a custom schedule with your spa guest. Discussing their needs and offering solutions for special events they might be having during their stay, suggesting to share a service with their spouse or friend, complementing their treatment with additional services over their stay and much more. These procedures must be scripted and the spa team must be trained to realize this opportunity and act on it. This is the single unique opportunity to substantially raise the per guest ticket.

Following up the next day to find out if the service had the desired effect will not only give you a good sense of your staff and menu performance but also offer an opportunity to reconnect with the client and offer them specials or additional services. Creating an ambience where the guest will want to linger will increase the possibility of booking additional services. Once the seed is planted some might need time to reflect. Having a positive experience after a service will lead to more services. Areas can serve multiple functions and serve as a reading lounge, a fresh juice bar, relaxing individual listening stations, an aroma therapy experience and more. A little knowledge of the nature of communication can be very helpful. Setting the stage for a positive response rather than giving too many options and being assertive with recommendations will give the client a better experience and the spa better revenues. Clients rely on the expertise of you as an institution of health and wellness. When you prescribe additional treatments for their benefit, they have no reason to decline. If you expect the client to make the self assessment, request the service and persevere through the booking process you are selecting to serve only the few who know.

Tag : spa,resort spa,spa marketing,captive,resort

Spa in a Thai Style

For many consecutive years Thailand is one of the big winners of numerous spa awards. Thailand's spa industry continues to look healthy and evolve with the changing requirements of spa clientele to a focus not far removed from the ancient purpose of traditional Thai massage and herbal healing techniques. Even with the need to mingle with Western practices, the Thai spa industry's edge is its ancient heritage: the rituals, treatments and massage techniques that have survived down through the ages. It has an authenticity that spas elsewhere in the world look to duplicate and "Thainess" has also become a focal selling point of Thai spas. It is relatively vital to discover why Thai spas with Thainess or in Thai style have contributed to many awards and have also astounded the world!

Thainess refers to both the therapists and the cultural qualities that have made Thailand the spa capital of the Asia-Pacific region as well as a must-have component for spas all over the world. Whilst it can mean different things to different people, when applied to Thai therapists, Thainess seems to encompass ancient healing techniques, folk wisdom in its rituals and, perhaps above all, graciousness. Maintaining wellbeing through an improved balance of the body, mind and spirit and with the environment has become the key protocol for Thailand's award-winning spas and emerging ventures. Thailand is now set as a medical hub featuring traditional and alternative treatments.

Dubbed as the "Land of Healthy Smiles", Thailand affords its health and beauty minded tourists the wonder of the pampering and holistic spa treatments of the body, mind and spirit. The revelation of health and wellness comprises a full-fledged array of world-renowned day spas, destination spas, hotel/resort spas and medical spas to choose from. Spa treatments in Thai style will help you to get in touch with inner you at numerous places across the nation. Rewarding yourself with a Thai spa is certainly a valuable treat that provides an ultimate spa experience. This, without doubt, makes meticulous tourists and recipients always fall in love with Thai spas with Thainess or in Thai style!

A delicate blend of cultural heritages and diversities is the central element that makes Thailand a spa destination in the world. A focus of health and beauty, Thai spas involve the method of relaxation and health promotion both physically and spiritually. They blossoms in Bangkok and major tourist cities countrywide. The Thai spa experience embraces a choice of indigenous resource, unique tradition and local wisdom that have been passed down through centuries. Recognizing the lucrative market niches for spa business, spa operators look into this ancient trove to create and present the best Thai style spas to ensure worldwide spa recipients a lasting spa expectation.

In fact, the spa theory in Thailand is adopted and adapted into traditional Thai style, making its spa treatments a whole lot different from that of offered at leading spa centers in the globe. An imported spa recipe combined with an exotic Thai touch has impressed the world! Spa facilities in Thailand too are of premium and great value for money. A tropical haven boasting natural and cultural richness, Thailand is considered one of the world's most famed holiday getaways. This is a remarkable plus that helps develop the country's basic strength as an eternal spa paradise. In addition, first-class spa products truly open a new notion and familiarity to foreign spa recipients.

Thai spas allow recipients to capture various essences of traditional Thai living. The Thai spa experience is notable as spa practitioners are naturally service-minded and always smiling. Gracious hospitality and quality service are complemented by the caring nature as well as gentle manner of the Thai people, thus enhancing a unique Thai touch to worldwide recognition. Gentleness, compassion and the act of comforting to others, as advocated by the Theravada Buddhist tradition, is very much part of everyday life. The gesture is intuitive and genuine as well. Besides, most of spa venues are designed with typical Thai characteristics intrinsically admired by all foreigners.

Boasting a variety of spa offerings, the Land of Healthy Smiles has devised a vast range of retreats, alternative therapies, personal consultation and life coaching. The common Thai spa menu includes traditional Thai, Swedish, Javanese and Sports massages, foot reflexology, aromatherapy, acupuncture, acupressure, hydrotherapy, skincare treatments like facial scrubs and body wraps, treatments for face, skin and hair, herbal steams and floral baths. The Thai spa experience also comes with body and mind activities - be it meditation, yoga, tai chi, pilates, stress management, holistic wellness, spa cuisine and physiotherapy, along with healthy eating and detoxification.

The Thai wellbeing therapy also makes Thai spas popular globally. Many of the healing techniques, holistic remedies and wellbeing programs are mainly based on the therapeutic power of Thai herbs and plants specially formulated to rebalance, restore and rejuvenate the body, mind and spirit. A variety of other curative treatments meanwhile accentuate meditative practices which reflect deep-rooted Buddhist influences. Significantly, the traditional Thai massage is regarded as an act of compassion in which the therapist performs the physical application of loving kindness and renders a curing touch in the spirit of giving. The traditional Thai massage exerts substantial health benefits.

In a word, the real Thai spas enable spa recipients to fully experience varied facets of Thainess and unique Thai style. Therefore, whilst here in the Land of Healthy Smiles explore yourself as well as indulge your body, mind and inner spirit in Thai spas for an unforgettable spa experience...

Tag : spa,Thai,Thai style,massage spa

Spa Etiquette 101 - Your Complete Guide to Spa Etiquette

1) Tardiness- As a common courtesy, please arrive at least 15-20 mins before your scheduled appointment at your spa. This will allow time for a leisurely check-in, a change of clothes and a few moments to relax before your wonderful spa experience.

You want to be able to get the full effects of this special treat. Rushing and arriving late will unfortunately limit the time for your treatment, thus setting you up to feel tense, anxious, and prevent you from enjoying this blissful occasion. Your treatment must end on time so that the next guest's service will not be delayed. Your scheduled time is your table time. If you arrive late to your day spa , you will be charged in full and that will truly be unfortunate.

2) Cancellations or Appointment Changes - Spa services are booked months in advance. If you must cancel or change your appointment time, the usually give you 24-48 hours prior to your scheduled time to avoid any charges. Be sure that you are clear on the spa's cancellation and appointment change policies. Otherwise they may very well bill you for the full amount.

3) Walk-ins - Most day spas do their best to accommodate you with walk-ins. However, a specific time that you desire may not be guaranteed, so it is always best to make an appointment in advance if you require a certain time.

4) Dress Code - I would suggest you wear casual attire something you can easily slip off and on without fussing. Not all spas allow you to bring your own robes or slippers into the spa. Find out ahead of time if they will allow you to have treatments in your own undergarments or swimsuit, however please understand that they are not responsible for any damage or staining to these articles. To protect your clothing, most day spas provide you with disposable underwear, robes and slippers while at the day spa. Again always find out before hand.

5) Modesty - The best way to receive a massage or other bodywork at the spa is to be unclothed. HOWEVER, they should "never require" you to disrobed if it makes you uncomfortable. Only Disrobe To Your Comfort Level! If modesty is an issue please don't hesitate to speak up while you still have you clothes on. You can also ask about spa treatments that can be done while you're fully clothed. Most therapists are trained in the "art of draping." They will leave the treatment room while you get under the sheet on the table, keep you covered at all times, except for the area of the body they are working on, and will leave the spa treatment room before you get up from the table. Depending on the service and your needs, you may receive a robe and slippers for your treatment. Make sure the spa will provide you with any necessary towels, robe and slippers for you to wear during your visit.

6) Valuables - Check to see if the day spa you are visiting provide you with secured lockers, showers and a variety of personal items for your use. Most spa therapies flow more easily without the interference of jewelry. I recommend removing all jewelry and placing them in a secure locker. Never put them in your robe pocket! Frantic searches in robe pockets or nooks and crannies in the treatment room are stress producing for everyone involved. Please do not bring valuables into the spa as the staff cannot be responsible for loss or damage of such items.

7) Shaving - If you need to shave (particularly beardless men receiving a facial), do it at least two hours before your spa appointment. If you have booked a body scrub, I highly recommend shaving the day before. Rubbing salt into the slightest razor wound is not a very relaxing experience. Ouch!

8 ) Courtesies and Comforts - OK gadget-aholics....Please turn of all cell phones and pagers before entering the spa. The spa is an oasis of peace and quiet. Although spas try to disguise outside interference with music, fountains and sound-absorbent walls, loud voices and noises do filter through. Please be mindful of the other spa goer's enjoying their peaceful moments, and try to keep the volume of your conversations to a minimum. Be mindful that most day spas are a smoke-free environment.

9) Food and Beverage- It's best not to receive bodywork on a full stomach before going to the spa. Schedule meals or snacks at least an hour before your spa treatment. Drink water, especially if heat therapies are part of your spa package. Since bodywork introduces clean, oxygenated and nourished fluids into your tissues and stimulates your body to purge toxins, it is important to flush them out by drinking plenty of water. Be aware of what you're putting into your nice clean body after your spa treatments, especially refined sugars, high fats, caffeine and most importantly, alcohol - these may have a stronger effect on you than normal. Toxins that are not flushed from your body can be reabsorbed and may give you a "toxin hangover". Drink more water if this happens.

10) Age Restrictions- Children are a delight to have in your company whether you are a parent or not. However, so that the ambiance within the day spa remains as relaxing as possible for all of the participants (many of whom are enjoying a retreat from their little people), please do not bring them to the spa. Most day spas do not allow children under 14-18 years of age depending on the spa so please call ahead to find out the age restrictions. Some spas require a written consent for teens between 14-17. There are some spas that do make accommodations for toddlers and babies for specialized services on an availability basis.

11) Groups of Three or More- Proper coordination of your group reservation requires additional time by the spa staff to ensure that your spa visit is a success.

12) Communicating- Your spa treatment, your time, and your body are yours, you want to be able to thoroughly enjoy your day spa experience. Please be sure to communicate preferences to your therapist - the amount of pressure, room temperature, or whether you want conversation or silence. If you don't tell your therapist, they won't know if you're feeling discomfort. Let your provider or staff member know immediately if you are feeling discomfort for any reason for any reason.

13) Pre-Treatment Forms- You may be required to complete a Pre-Treatment Form prior to your day spa service. Some medical conditions may prevent them from performing certain spa treatments. The information that you provide them will help to ensure that the spa services are provided in a safe manner, minimizing risk of injury.

14) Medical conditions and Health Consideration- If you have any type of medical condition or special needs, please be sure to inform the spa staff of it when you book the appointment. Certain spa treatments may not be advisable for you. Also, before your spa treatment begins, let your therapist or aesthetician know of any medical concerns. If you are pregnant or have high blood pressure, avoid any heat treatments. It is advisable to disclose medical conditions, pregnancy and medications. Some medical conditions and/or medications may prevent them from performing certain treatments. Be sure to inform your therapist if you are using Retin A, accutane, or have had laser surgery.

15) Pregnancy Safety Policy- Please note, no body treatments (massage or hydrotherapy) are performed during the first trimester of pregnancy. Manicures and pedicures can still be enjoyed be expecting mothers at the day spa, but please inform your therapist ahead of time.

16) Spa Gifts and Spa Discounts- Most day spas offer spa gift cards and spa gift certificates. Be aware that spa gift cards and spa gift certificates are non-refundable, non-transferable, may not be redeemed for cash or credit, and irreplaceable if lost or stolen. Please present all spa discounts, promotional coupons, spa gift certificate, and spa gift cards at check-in.

17) Pricing and Packages- Most often spa services and prices are subject to change without notice.

18) Payment- Day spas normally accept all major credit, special spa gift cards, spa gift certificates, spa discounts, cash, and some also accept personal checks. Be sure to call ahead to see what form of payment options are available. Most of the time the setting of appointments are held with a credit card.

19) Gratuity- It is customary to provide your therapist or esthetician a 15-20% gratuity if you were happy with the services provided. Usually gratuities are accepted in cash and sometimes checks. Gratuities aren't normally included with spa services and are your discretion.

20) Last but not least, Take it all in- Enjoy yourself. This is a special time to take for yourself or with someone special at your spa of choice. A time of tranquility, A time of rejuvenation, A time of relaxation, and most of all A time of blissful elations!

Tag : spa,spa etiquette,etiquette

Top 10 Places in Britain For a Spa Day

1. Best for spa days in Scotland

Glasgow: Spa in the City

Guaranteed to find a spa treatment to suit you, this day spa will cater for your every need. If you are unsure of what spa treatment to have let your beauty therapist recommend the perfect spa treatment for your lifestyle. Using only the finest ESPA products, the team of expert therapists offer luxurious spa treatments in a relaxed and friendly environment.

Edinburgh: Norton House Hotel

Part of Hand Picked Hotels, Norton House is a sanctuary of tranquillity and harmony. The day spa, which has been carefully designed to create a sense of warmth and blissful relaxation, boosts a luxurious pool, therapeutic hydrotherapy pool, sauna and steam rooms innovative fitness suite and studio, and Rasul mud room, as well as a range of holistic spa treatments.

Aberdeen: Saks Hair and Beauty

The award winning salon offers every spa treatment that you would expect from the Nationwide Salon Group of the Year. Whether it's cut, colour, hair-cut, extensions or a spa treatment, Saks offers it all.

2. Best for spa days in the South East

London: Six Senses Spa at Pan Peninsula

An ideal base to escape from the hustle and bustle of the capital, Six Senses Spa at Pan Peninsula offers every spa treatment you can imagine for a relaxing spa day. Featuring eight luxurious treatment rooms, two couple's treatment rooms, bio-thermal circuit with chromotherapy steam cabin, crystal laconium, and traditional dry sauna, this day spa is the perfect place to relax for hours.

Kent: Brandshatch Place

Set in twelve and a half acres of lush country side, this hotel spa is the perfect retreat for a spa day. It features everything you could possibly need, including a swimming pool, squash court, state of the art gym, tennis courts, as well as treatments rooms where you can enjoy a variety of spa therapies. What more could you want?

Surrey: Nutfield Priory

Situated high on a thickly wooded ridge next to the extravagant architecture of Nutfield Priory Hotel, this hotel spa provides the perfect tranquil setting for a relaxing pamper day. Using Espa, Clarins and Essie it offers a range of spa treatments, all carried out by experienced therapists.

3. Best for spa days in the North West

Manchester: The Spa Co Urban Oasis at Debenhams City Centre

With a warm and welcoming atmosphere this spa provides the perfect setting for a spa day. Boasting private treatment rooms and an open plan area where individuals and groups can enjoy a range of spa treatments together, it's a great spot for city pampering.

Cheshire: Rookery Hall Hotel

At this hotel spa you can enjoy a relaxing spa day amid acres of parkland and woodland. Offering eight treatment rooms, a relaxation room, glass roofed indoor pool, fully-equipped gym and brassiere, there really is something for everyone.

Lancashire: Dove Spa at re-aqua Ormskirk

Dove Spa at re-aqua Ormskirk offers a range of spa treatments to cater for your every beauty need. So whether it be a manicures, facial or massage this day spa makes the perfect place to get groomed and gorgeous.

4. Best for spa days in the South West

Somerset: Green Street House

Nestled in the heart of Bath, this day spa is makes for a luxurious pamper day. It's peaceful and tranquil surroundings and range of holistic spa treatments will help to encourage relaxation. The perfect antidote to nourish the mind, body and soul.

Devon: Neal's Yard Therapy Rooms - Exeter

Offering a variety of spa treatments from acupuncture to shiatsu, Neal's Yard Therapy Rooms is the ideal place to relax and unwind with some much needed me-time.

Bristol: Pure Face Works

Focusing on the health and vitality of your skin, Pure Face Works aims to help your skin look and feel it's best whatever your age. Offering a variety of relaxing spa treatments from facials to massages, it's a great retreat where your face is under focus.

5. Best for spa days in North East

West Yorkshire: Waterfall Spa

A ladies-only day spa offering luxury spa facilities and spa treatments in the heart of the city centre. It's the perfect place for busy ladies with little time on their hands to unwind and catch up over a little pampering.

North Yorkshire: The Devonshire Health Spa

Housed in a converted barn, the Health Spa is a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. With experienced and friendly staff to attend to your every need, this day spa will make you leave as a fresh and happy new you.

County Durham: Broom Mill Day Spa

With views over tranquil meadows it's hard to find a better setting for a relaxing day out. Its purpose built treatment suite, thermal suite, swimming pool and relaxation area provides the all you need to sit back and put your spa-slippered feet up.

6. Best for spa days in East of England

Hertfordshire: Dove Spa Chorleywood

Offering an array of spa treatments including customised facials, massages, manicures and pedicures to name just a few, this well known spa aims to make women feel more beautiful every day by inspiring them to take great care of themselves. Sounds good to us!

Essex: You Spa at The Radisson SAS Hotel

You Spa brings together the perfect combination of integrated spa treatments and signature therapies for you to enjoy - a great choice for any avid spa-goer

Cambridgeshire: Amanda Allport in Huntingdon

Armed with years of spa experience, this spa offers exclusive spa treatments for you to enjoy. Catering not just for the skin, but also for the mind, body and soul, this day spa is the place to be for bespoke pampering

7. Best for spa days in East Midlands

Nottinghamshire: Eden Day Spa

This beautifully designed haven is the perfect retreat for a spa day to melt away all your cases and stresses of modern life. Their friendly professionals are ready and waiting to energize your mind and body with a range of pampering spa treatments.

Leicestershire: Ragdale Hall Health Hydro and Thermal Spa

Combining state-of-the-art facilities with the charm of traditional Victorian architecture, Ragdale Hall Health Hydro and Thermal Spa is the perfect place for a pamper day. Providing traditional spa treatments, and extensive spa facilities it is an ideal base for you to relax.

Northamptonshire: Rushton Hall Stableyard at Rushton Hall

Feel refreshed and rejuvenated with a relaxing spa day at this hotel spa. Surrounded by tranquil countryside, awaken your senses with fresh air and top treatments.

8. Best for spa days in the West Midlands

West Midlands: New Hall Hotel and Spa

Hidden away in the grounds of a hotel this spa offers the ultimate pamper day in a welcoming environment. Make the most of your spa day and treat yourself to one of its many spa treatments or relax in its extensive facilities.

Staffordshire: Eden Day Spa at Hoar Cross Hall

Unwind and relax in this impressive hotel spa with a luxurious treatment. And if that's not enough, this hotel spa has a salt water pool, steam, sauna and saunarium, Jacuzzi, and gym to keep you occupied.

Warwickshire: Pure Bliss

This day spa lets you choose where you would like to enjoy your spa treatments. So whether you want your spa treatments in the comfort of you own home or in the tranquil settings of the day spa there is something for everyone.

9. Best for day spas in Wales

Cardiff: Derma Skin Clinic

This specialist non-surgical day spa offers all the latest spa treatments, including Botox and fillers to leave you feeling great about yourself and looking ten years younger. What's not to love?

Clyd: Glow

It's not just the name that will bring sunshine into your life, at this day spa you're guaranteed to leave feeling happy and refreshed. The spa's comfortable surroundings and luxurious spa treatments make for a great spa day.

Dyfed: St Brides Spa Hotel

At St Brides Spa Hotel, you will feel like you have just stepped onto the beach. This day spa has been specifically designed to reflect its seaside location, with spectacular views from its cliff top setting.

10. Best for day spas in Northern Ireland

Dublin: French Beauty Day Spa

You've guessed it. This French day spa offers every French spa treatment you could imagine. Trained to the highest standards, in France, this day spa's therapists will leave you feel invigorated and de-stressed after a much needed pamper day. Parfait!

County Carlow: AromaSpa at Kilgraney House

Situated in a restored apple storehouse this aromatherapy centre offers a variety of spa treatments for both men and women. As well as enjoying a relaxing spa treatment why not make the most of your spa day and indulge in their aromatherapy inspired experiences?

Cork: Beauty Regain Clinic

An award winning day spa, for the last 7 years, this day spa sets itself apart by offering new types of spa treatments. Through constant research and investigation, it is able to invite customers to try out the very latest pampering spa treatments.

All the above venues can be found on Wahanda.com which offers a huge selection of spas, health and beauty locations in destinations across the UK and around the world. If you're looking to buy a spa voucher or send someone on a luxurious spa day, then you'll find everything you need on Wahanda.

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