You’ve picked the date, researched the best spa deals and spa break offers, and found the perfect spa hotel for you – but there’s one problem, you’ve never been on a spa break before and you’re not sure what to expect. Fear not! Although it can seem intimidating at first, spa weekends are all about relaxing and feeling comfortable in your surroundings – and there are plenty of handy hints and tips to bear in mind to make your visit as relaxing as possible.
Not knowing how to behave at a spa can be a
source of anxiety for first time spa-goers – whether you’re embarking on a group spa package, spa for three, golf and spa break or romantic spa weekend – but much of the correct etiquette is simple common sense. Spas are designed to provide an escape from the stresses and strains of daily life, and so long as you remember this, you – and your fellow spa-goers – will have a great spa experience.
Keep reading to view our simple guide to spa etiquette to ensure your UK spa break is memorable for all the right reasons.
Book your spa break ahead
When available, advanced booking – by phone or online booking – will likely minimise your waiting time for treatments, which will unlikely be available if you try to book on the day. At some hotels with spas, spa appointments can be made at check-in but remember, even if you’ve booked a spa weekend package or late spa deal that includes treatments, it’s always best to book your therapies well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Arrive on time
Arriving at your chosen spa day hotel early is recommended as this will give you plenty of time to explore your surroundings, check in and make the most of the facilities. It will also help you avoid being late for any booked spa treatments.
Some UK spa hotels require guests to complete paperwork on arrival before they can use the facilities – especially if you’ve never visited before. Once signed in, you’ll be free to explore and use the spa’s facilities included in your chosen spa hotel deal.
If you’ve booked a treatment, you should aim to be in the treatment area around 15 minutes before the therapy begins.
Leave your phone behind
Talking on a mobile phone whilst in the tranquil surroundings of a spa is heavily frowned upon – and their use is prohibited at the vast majority of spas. Some spa hotels may allow guests to use their phones in reception and on outside grounds, but guests should be respectable and talk in hushed tones to avoid disturbing other guests.
Using a phone will likely spoil your own spa experience too; it’s difficult to fully unwind when you’re chatting on the phone. When on your spa and hotel break, it’s best to simply leave your mobile phone in a locked safe in the room.
Talk to your therapist
Spa therapists are fully trained professionals and
their main focus will be on making you feel at ease – so whether you want to remain silent or chat during your treatment, they will be happy to oblige. Before your treatment begins, your therapist will ask whether you have any concerns or problem areas. They’ll also check whether you have any preferences, such as massage pressure. But regardless of whether you want to talk during your treatment or not, you should always let your therapist know if you’re uncomfortable or unhappy at any stage – your weekend spa break is all about you.
Respect the dress code
You’ve booked a late spa deal, then panic when you realise you’re not sure what to pack. Don’t worry – most spas simply ask you to wear swimwear when in the spa areas and a fluffy robe and flip flops (which will be provided) when in public areas such as the reception. If you wish, you can take your own flip flops to wear around the spa – just ensure they’re completely clean before entering. If your spa hotel offer also includes lunch or afternoon tea, you will usually be able to wear your robe to the restaurant area too.
Inform the spa of any medical conditions
There are some treatments which are not suitable for those with certain medical conditions or skin ailments. Discussing any conditions you have in advance of your visit will prevent any disappointment on the day of your spa and hotel break. Staff may be able to customise treatments to make them suitable, or book an alternative therapy for you.
Be mindful of other spa-goers
While you may find the spa environment exciting – even more so if you’re on a spa hen weekend or group spa break – it’s important to keep noise levels down to avoid disturbing other guests trying to unwind. It’s perfectly fine to chat with your friends, just remember, most people will be here to enjoy the peace and quiet, so employ a suitable ‘spa voice’ at all times. Splashing or fooling around in the hot tub or swimming pool is unlikely to go down well with other guests either.
Leave areas and facilities how you found them
While your spa hotel will want you to feel as comfortable and as relaxed as possible, they will not want to clean up after you. Place all litter inside a bin and ask staff where you can leave unwanted, used towels – there will usually be a collection bin near the changing rooms.
Prepare for your treatment properly
Don’t arrive for your spa treatment sweaty or still wet from the swimming pool. Not only will you feel uncomfortable in your damp swimwear, any applied oils or lotions will be less effective. Shower beforehand and take plenty of time to dry before arriving in the treatment waiting area. It’s also a good idea to investigate whether you should shave or wax before your chosen treatment – it’s usually recommended that men shave before a facial, for example.
Be aware of cancellation policies
It’s a worst-case scenario when you’ve booked the weekend spa break of your dreams, but if you need to cancel a spa visit and/or treatment, always inform the spa as quickly as possible so your slot can be filled by another guest. Bear in mind that refunds may not be possible.