Tips

There are many different ways to relax, but spending a few hours at a spa is one of the best and most enjoyable ways to keep your stress under control. So if you have the money and a few hours, why not try a day spa.

Before you decide on a day spa, read the following tips on how to ensure that you will get the services that you really want: -- Choose the best spa for you: Spas offer clients different services and treatments. Day spas might offer stress reduction and wellness programs, beauty treatments and skin care, massage and body care, weight and nutrition counseling, meditation, hydrotherapy, aromatherapy and fitness training, or some combination of the above.

Some day spas are affiliated with hair and/or cosmetic salons, and offer relaxation or massage services along with traditional facials, hair and makeup styling, and nail care. -- Know the facilities: Before you make a reservation, make sure that you know the facilities of the spa you plan to visit. Are they clean and safe? Are therapists and other employees licensed in their specific fields? Chat with other visitors in the waiting room. Have they been to the spa before? What do they like most about this particular spa? Do you prefer a large, clinical- appearing center or a smaller, more intimate spa? Does the spa feel like a place where you can relax and unwind? If you feel uncomfortable on your visit, look for another spa. -- Ask about the prices: Don't be embarrassed to admit this is your first time at a spa, and ask about the prices for the different services and about tipping. Do you prefer an "a la carte" list of services and treatments from which you can select, or a full or half-day "package" designed by the spa? Find out what is included in the prices you are quoted and whether or not tips are included. -- Get the specifics: What exactly is a "30-minute massage session"? There are dozens of procedures that may be classified as massage therapies, ranging from Swedish, Shiatsu, deep tissue, sport, lymphatic drainage and reflexology, just to name a few. What kinds of treatments are included in "aromatherapy" or "hydrotherapy" regimens? If you're not sure what's being offered, ask for clarification. -- If you have special concerns, bring them up when you make your appointment. If you're concerned about nudity, ask if swimsuits are optional for full-body treatments. You can also ask about the products which are used if you have allergies or special sensitivities.