A long vacation at a spa sounds heavenly. For many people, the massages, the facials, and the laid-back lifestyle of a spa equal total bliss. But before you can enjoy a spa vacation, you have to spend time planning for it. Follow these tips to ensure your next spa getaway goes as smoothly as possible.
1. Decide what you want before you start searching
These days, you can’t just say you want to go to a spa. There are many different kinds of spas out there--day spas, hotel spas, destination spas, resort spas, medical spas--so you have to be specific. Odds are if you want to go on a spa vacation, you’ll be looking for either a resort spa or a destination spa. Think about what you want to get out of your vacation and choose between these two options. Want a relaxing experience seeped in luxury with many other entertainment options? Go for the resort spa. Want to immerse yourself in the spa lifestyle while losing weight or reconnecting with your body? Think destination spa. Once you’ve narrowed your search between these two options, you’ll have a much easier time deciding.
2. Set a budget beforehand
The fact is that most people won’t be able to spend frivolously on vacation. Unless you’ve got more money than you know what to do with, it’s just not practical to indulge without restraint. Think about how much money you’re willing to put into your vacation and set a budget. It doesn’t have to be a detailed breakdown of what you will spend on all aspects of your trip; instead, make a general estimate of what you’d like the getaway to cost in total. Think about how much of that cost should go to spa treatments. Having a general idea of cost will help you determine what you can and can’t do on your vacation. You’ll probably go over your budget by a little bit, but at least you’ll be conscious of what you’re spending.
3. Book treatments in advance
Many times, resort spas have many more guests stay at the resort than they can handle at the spa. There may be only three spa treatment rooms for a facility with 300 guest rooms. This means that not everyone will be able to enjoy spa treatments, especially in the busy season when resort spas are packed. Ensure that you get a spot at the spa during the time of your choice by booking as soon as you know the dates of your vacation.
4. Pack comfortable clothing
A spa vacation is luxurious, but it’s usually not the venue for high fashion. Most of your time at the spa will be spent in a plush robe and slippers. You may wear stretchy clothing for some treatments, like Thai massages, and you could need workout gear if your spa offers exercise classes. A nice outfit or two is appropriate for the evening of your vacation, especially at a spa resort with multiple entertainment options, but don’t plan to be dressed to the nines the entire time.
5. Take advantage of the amenities in your room
Many upscale spa resorts will offer guests premium rooms with bathrooms that are like mini spas themselves. If it’s available to you, why not spend time soaking in your own tub or Jacuzzi? Enjoying the free amenities in your room will save you money and help you relax--it’s a win-win situation.
6. Don’t rush your trip
While one night at a spa can be very beneficial, a full weekend is much better. Better still is a week-long getaway. The whole point of a spa vacation is to relax and unwind; it’s hard to do that when you only have a limited amount of time.
7. Tell the staff about your needs
Remember to let the staff at a resort spa know all about any medical conditions you might have. Unlike the workers at your regular day spa, a resort spa’s staff won’t know you. So disclose anything that might affect a treatment; let the staff know about any allergies you may have, whether you have high blood pressure, if you’re pregnant, if you’ve recently had surgery, and if you have any pain. This way, they’ll be better able to design a treatment that’s right for you.
8. Plan non-spa activities ahead of time
You don’t necessarily have to book activities besides spa treatments before leaving for your trip, but it’s always a good idea to know what you’ll be doing in the rest of your time on vacation. Call the resort and ask about non-spa amenities available on site. They might have golf courses, tennis courts, or guided tours of the area available. Also, ask about getting a schedule of fitness classes if it’s available. Knowing when things like yoga and tai chi are offered at your resort can help you plan out your days much better.
9. Decide what to do with your kids
If you’re bringing kids with you on your vacation, it’s important that you know how they will be entertained. Small children generally aren’t allowed in spas, so you’ll have to find a place that either has babysitting options or will allow you and your spouse to do different things at different times. One of you could hit the spa while the other plays in the pool with the children. Call each resort before you book and ask about activities for the under-15 crowd.
