We are constantly inundated with magazine and newspapers articles about “must visit” new spas – they are popping up all over the UK. The marketing seems good, the treatments, we are told, are all totally indulgent and the images draw us in to what they all seem to describe as a “haven of tranquillity”. So how do we really know where to spend our money?
There are so many things to consider. What is a spa? I’m told I need to pre-book my treatments, but if you’ve never visited a spa before, how do you know which treatments you should have? Are the prices competitive or can you get the same treatment nearer home for less money? What facilities does the spa have? Will the swimming pool be full of children playing on an inflatable dolphin whilst you are trying to indulge in some much needed rest and relaxation?
Spas come in all shapes and sizes but in the UK they tend to fall into six main categories:-
Day Spas – These offer a good range of facilities without the option of accommodation. Most spas will have a pool and other facilities such as a sauna and steam room. They will offer a comprehensive range of treatments including massages and facials and a relaxation room to chill out in afterwards.
Hotel Spas – There are a great number of hotels with spa facilities attached. The quality and quantity of the facilities varies enormously, and the grading of the hotel isn’t necessarily an indicator as to the quality of the spa. You should bear in mind that if you’re planning to spend the day chilling out at a hotel spa, you could be joined by other hotel guests, including children and corporate groups. The hotel may also have a members club, in which case you should expect a steady flow of guests throughout the day. Not all hotels spas provide robe, towel and slippers for use on a spa day, so check this out before you book.
Destination Spas - You are unlikely to find any children here! A resort dedicated to treatments, relaxation and luxurious pampering. Many destination spas are a complete “get away from it all” experience. They are usually set in beautiful surroundings and have a broad range of facilities, classes and activities. Guests can visit for a day or stay over for as long as they wish. Those on longer stays tend to have a goal in mind whether it’s weight loss, detoxing or just recharging batteries after a particularly stressful time. Prices at destinations spas tend to be high in comparison to other options, but they do offer fantastic service, excellent facilities and a high ratio of staff to guests.
Treatment Rooms - These tend to be like day spas but without the wet facilities. Guests tend to book anything from a one off treatment, to a selection of treatments but due to the lack of wet facilities and other activities, it is more of an opportunity to unwind with luxurious treatments. Ideal for those who need to de-stress but don’t have the time for a “spa day”.
Health and Leisure Clubs - These are available to members and spa day guests. They can be connected to a hotel or, quite often are just a stand alone venue. Most have a large swimming pool, sauna, steam room and a good range of sports equipment. They also have fitness trainers on hand to assist with equipment and exercise programmes.
Basically, no two spas are the same. Choosing the right location depends on what you are looking for. A spa suitable for a group of girls on a hen party is a very different proposition to a venue suitable for a romantic spa break for two. So how do you know which spa to choose? The only real way of finding out is to either visit the spas in advance or save yourself time and speak to a reputable spa agent.
A good spa agent will have visited every spa they promote so that they can make personal recommendations based on your requirements. They have already done all the hard work, so you don’t have to. Whether you are looking for a one off spa treatment, a spa day or a spa break, with their detailed knowledge a good spa agent will be able to advise on a suitable spa venue with the treatments and facilities you require at a price you can afford.
My advice…… don’t accept a recommendation unless the person or company you are dealing with have actually visited the spa. We can all read the brochures, but how else, other than by first hand experience, can anyone truly advise you on how to part with your precious pounds?
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