These spa etiquette tips are designed to make your trip to any spa a relaxing rejuvenating experience. This guide will teach you how to make reservations, what to wear and what to expect. Please be mindful, that each spa is unique and you should always check ahead, if you are unsure of anything.

Spas are designed to be Peaceful and Calm experiences. Knowing the basics will insure that you have the most Relaxing experience!

Advance Booking:   For resort and hotel spas best to book 1 – 2 months prior to your visit, as theses resort spas often fill up fast, book as far in advance as possible. Prefer a quieted spa experience; avoid the crowds by reserving a treatment during off-peak hours or during the week. Check to see if your spa offers a discount for off peak days or hours.

Attire:   Most spas will provide a spa bath robe and sandals for your treatments. Some treatments require special attire so ask when you book your service if you need to bring any other attire or change of undergarments.

Cancellation:   Be sure to check with the spa before your visit as policies do vary. To avoid cancellation charges, best to schedule your appointment on a day when you do not have other things planned. If you are feeling ill prior to the day of your service, best to reschedule within the spas cancellation policy.

Cell Phones:   Leave your cell phone in a private place on silent or turn it off before entering the spa.

Communicating Your Preferences:   Be sure to speak up. All aspects of treatment can be modified to your taste: amount of light, music level, room temperature, and whether or not you choose to have a conversation or enjoy the treatment in silence. During a massage, let the therapist know if the pressure level is what you prefer. During body treatments or facials feel free to ask questions about the products, procedures or expectations of the service. If any part of your experience is unsatisfactory, first tell the therapist. If the response is not helpful, speak to a manager or the owner of the spa, if one is available.

Conversation:   Through out the spa, locker room area, relaxation room and elsewhere, all conversations should be kept at a low volume.

Gender of Therapists:   Most spas will rotate and balance which therapists do your treatment. If you prefer either a male or a female therapist, you need to express this at the time you book the service. If this is a return visit to the spa and you have enjoyed the services of a particular therapist on a prior visit, feel free to request that person again.

Medical Conditions or Allergies:   Inform the spa before booking a service of your medical condition or allergic concerns so you may select the right service for you. Some services may have contraindications for who should receive them. Also, tell the technician if you are wearing contact lenses before you have a facial.

Perfume/Cologne:   It is best not to wear perfume or cologne in the spa area. Some people may be allergic and the scent may take away from the relaxation and comfort of the spa.

Punctuality:   Arrive at least 15-30 minutes early so you can enjoy an unhurried transition into the spa and shower if necessary. Most Spas start and end all treatments on time. If you are late, your treatment time will be shortened. Check with the spa to see their specific policy. You should exit the treatment room within 5 minutes of the service. Should you require additional relaxation time, enjoy the relaxation areas of the spa.

Gratuities (Important!) Ask if gratuities are included, though that is not usually the case. If not, 18 – 20 percent is customary, but you may of course leave more or less, depending on the quality of the service. Leave the tip at the reception desk when you pay your bill rather than giving it directly to the therapist. If you receive multiple services from different people (a massage therapist, a facial esthetician, etc.), leave a separate tip for each of them.