Brush Up On Your #Spa Etiquette

Whether you are heading to the spa for your first time or you have many spa visits under your belt, a quick reminder about spa etiquette may be in order. Using your best manners when you visit day spas or vacation resorts can make the stay much more enjoyable for you, the staff members, and other guests of the spa. In order to be on your very best behavior, you may want to call your spa beforehand to find out if they have any spa specials or discounts.

Phone Ahead If You Have A Preference Concerning Therapists

Most spas are more than happy to provide you with your preferred therapist. However, during the busiest hours, it can be hard to match you up with your favorite therapist, especially if many guests prefer that therapist. If you have a favorite, or simply want to specify a male or female therapist, then call ahead to schedule your time.

Be On Time

Really there are very few appointments that this good behavior doesn’t apply to. You don’t want to spend your vacation days waiting because other guests were late and you don’t want to be the guest that causes other clients to wait. Arriving on time gives you and the spa employee plenty of time and creates a much more relaxing atmosphere.

Some Things Are Best Left At Home

While many spas try to offer you accommodations to meet your special needs, there are some things that you should leave home for everyone’s comfort:

• Leave jewelry and other valuables at home for their safety and your own comfort.
• Increasing numbers of people have perfume allergies. Try not to wear it to your spa treatments.
• Many spas don’t allow smoking. Plan ahead if this will be a problem for you.
• Leave your cellphones, pagers, and other work paraphernalia at home.
• Many spas and vacation resorts offer childcare and even pet care. Find out beforehand if this is an option. If it isn’t, you, your children and pets, and other guests will be much more comfortable when other arrangements have been made for children and pets.

Be Polite If You Want to Wear Your Own Clothing

The general expectation at a spa resort is that you will slip into one of the bathrobes provided by the facility. During massages and other treatments, the resort employees generally use warm, comfy towels to keep you covered. However, if you are uncomfortable with this idea and want to wear a swimsuit or other clothing, express this desire politely. Your good manners will be appreciated by everyone.

Call Ahead to Ask about Gratuities

It is customary to provide a tip for your therapist, masseuse, and other treatment providers. Many spas will include gratuities in their prices, but if they don’t, then you want to be prepared. According to expert spa directors, the average gratuity is 18 to 20% of the base price. At resorts where you receive several services, you’ll want to tip providers individually. Tips are generally left at the reception desk. Maybe more important than the amount of the tip, however, is the manner in which the tip is given.

Cancellations

Last minute cancellations will usually incur some type of charge. Many resorts may not be able to schedule other guests for your appointment time. As with other many other professional services, you should expect to pay a fee if you want to cancel or change your plans with short notice.

In General…

If you try to treat others the way that you want to be treated, then you should find that your time spent at vacation spa resorts will be more pleasant and serene than if you neglect your good manners.

This guest post was brought to you by Live Love Spa.