My goodness me … This holiday is flying by … I’m already 4 weeks in.
Right now, I am yearning for a good massage … Gotta say I’ve been loving my travels but oh my feet and knees are killing me … blame it on the cobblestones!
Good thing my next hotel has a spa.
Not everyone though is as excited as I am about a trip to a spa. For some people it can be a source of great anxiety or disappointment. Let’s face it spas around the world don’t always play to the same rules and that can be confusing for us.
The one I am going to offers all sorts of cellulite treatments, massages, facials and the largest collection of pools and steam baths I’ve ever seen anywhere. This is a place where you walk around all day in your bathrobe – sound like fun – yes but for a women of larger proportions like me that can be anxiety causing – Will the bathrobe even fit me?
I’ve learnt a few tricks over the years to make sure spas, wellness centres or whatever you want to call them leave you completely blissed out. Here are my simple tips:
Choose the right treatment: Many spas have a long list of treatments on offer, hydrotherapy massage pools, slow and relaxing massages, bamboo massage to release tension and reactive your circulation…. I think you are getting my drift. Working out what is best for you really comes to looking at what you’re body needs at this particular time – don’t be afraid to tell the spa what that is and let them guide you on what is the best treatment to achieve this.
Book your treatment in advance: Nothing is more disappointing than arriving at a spa hotel or resort and after getting settled into your room, you decide to visit the spa to make an appointment and you’re informed that nothing is available. Wait listing might be an alternative, but not that appealing.
Know how much to undress: Spa etiquette can vary from country to country and treatment to treatment. I remember my first spa visit in Australia, everyone walked around naked, which was a big shock to a blushing twenty year old. Your treatment should guide the amount you disrobe. If you are only having a facial then probably shoulders and chest is all that needs to be exposed. For massages and body treatments it’s best to disrobe completely, even keeping on your kickers can restrict the masseuse’s access to muscles. If you prefer a massage without disrobing opt for a Thai massage during which you’ll wear loose fitting clothes.
Speak up: Most spa disappointments come down to communication. If your shoulders and neck are particularly tight for example tell your massage therapist before you start the service so s/he can spend a few extra minutes working on them. And the same goes with any injuries you have or if you have sensitive skin or allergies. Don’t be afraid during the treatment to ask for more pressure or less, or even a blanket if you’re cold. Remember this is all about YOU and your comfort.
It’s also a good idea to check in with the spa beforehand whether there is anything you should avoid before the treatment. For instance if you’ve booked a salt glow treatment or any body treatment that involves exfoliation, its wise not to shave anywhere on your body less than 24 (or more) hours before your treatment.
Avoid peak times and don’t rush: Hotel spas are often busiest around 5 pm until closing time, during that time you can expect less attention from spa staff and more crowded locker rooms and waiting rooms. Also no matter when you go be sure to arrive 20 minutes early in advance of your treatment so you can start decompressing, and plan to stay 15 minutes after its done. Enjoying the spas ambience and facilities like the steam room or whirl pool is often part of the experience rather than rushing in and out – but remember there is a sequence for good reasons: steam/sauna, bath treatment, scrub, massage, and then facial – and don’t rush in and have a shower – why wash away all those beautiful ingredients that have been applied to the skin. Chill for a couple of hours at least and let the goodness soak in!
And what about tipping?: This really varies form spa to spa. Therapists in many Asian countries are paid low wages, so tipping is really valued. I usually give around 10% of the cost of the treatment as a rule of thumb but really it is up to you and you’re satisfaction with the experience.
And don’t forget to drink, drink, and drink (and I’m talking water) … Keep your hydration levels up and flush out all those toxins that have been released! Your body will definitely thank you in the morning.
Now, lay back and enjoy your spa experience …..
Looking to include some R&R in your next travels? Drop me a line at anthea@travelyourway.com.au and let’s get started on finding the perfect spa for you.
