The Pamper Zone

Good news for baby boomers: more spas will be tailoring treatments to you in future, according to SpaFinder, the online global spa and wellness resource. Prepare for an increase in “corrective” massage and facials and anti-ageing therapies, plus a renaissance in discovering the soothing benefits of soaking in thermal waters.
 

Planning your perfect spa trek

• Do you want a “Zen” experience or an exercise boot camp? Are you going with others just because it feels safer than going solo, when you’d really rather be alone? Be honest, and tailor accordingly.
• A spa veteran? If you’re very stressed and tired, go somewhere you’ve been to before. It cuts out the new-kid-at-school syndrome, so you can dive straight in.
• Ask what’s provided (eg, slippers) and the dress code, so you don’t over-pack. Leave valuables at home—you’ll feel freer.
• Try to schedule treatments in advance. Ask what’s involved, and if they can accommodate specific requirements.
 

Spa etiquette

• Turn off your phone, and keep the TV low. Peace for all is part of the package.
• Don’t shave your legs or wax your bikini line the same day as a treatment—it can make you more susceptible to irritation.
• Try not to eat for at least an hour before treatments.
• Always shower before therapies and visiting the pools and saunas.
• Don’t be late for appointments, so neither you nor the therapist feel rushed.
• Anxious about the whole naked thing? Staff are very dextrous at using towels as screens. Paper knickers are usually offered, too—about as flattering as sporting a J-cloth, but can spare blushes!
• SpaFinder point out that many treatments can be modified to your taste, from music choice to temperature. And say if you’d rather not talk—you don’t have to chat throughout a treatment.
• Avoid any awkwardness: ask reception about the spa’s tips policy—you can often leave gratuities in envelopes provided.

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