Spa Etiquette

If you're running late, you lose - spas often can't push your appointment back more than 10 minutes. Need an incentive to arrive on time? We have a serene relaxation lounge which acts as a prelude to get you in the tranquil spa mindset before your service.

Be conscious that no shows or short-notice cancellations will incur a charge or forfeit of the gift certificated used to hold the appointment time. 48 hour notice is needed in order to not loose your deposit or gift certificate. Holidays and Special event weekends may require up to 72 hour notice for cancelation to avoid being charged. Please know the spa's policies and give as much notice as possible if you need to change your appointment plans.

Our gift certificates are valid for 1 year from the date of purchase. Your MUST bring your printed gift card to your appointment, electronic versions will not be accepted and another form of payment will have to be used for the services scheduled.

Your cell phone or BlackBerry should be turned off--and kept off--while in the spa; using either is a huge no-no. Better yet, leave both at home and make Miss Manners proud. In a relaxation room, conversation is fine, as long as it's in a soft tone.

It's up to you. Spas make every effort to accommodate guest wishes in this regard. Keep in mind that at peak hours, it may be harder to fulfill your request, and that for less-requested treatments, the spa may have only one therapist available. Remember to book in advance; if you are a fan of a particular therapist, chances are someone else is.

Nudity is probably the aspect of spa-going that causes guests the most anxiety. Let's be serious--baring it all to someone you've just met can feel awkward. But keep in mind that most therapists in the States go to great lengths to maintain guest modesty, stepping out of the treatment room to allow you to disrobe and get comfortable under the sheet on the massage table. If you're uncomfortable about being in the buff, you don't have to undress completely; it's perfectly okay to wear underwear while having a massage. Second, there are select treatments for which spas will often supply disposable undergarments. Though they'll never make the La Perla catalogue, they do ensure some modesty.

Leaving 15 to 20 percent is customary. Tips should be left at the reception desk, which will have gratuity envelopes (you may want to check with your spa prior to paying, as most permit cash tips only). Received services from more than one therapist? Leave a separate tip for each one. Also, more often than not, spa staff appreciates when the gratuity is left in cash. At a medical spa, tip the facialist, not the medical doctor.

If you plan on shaving prior to a treatment (as is advised for men receiving facials), do so at least two hours before your scheduled appointment to avoid any irritation.

Try not to eat for at least an hour before a treatment, and avoid the consumption of alcohol on the day of a treatment. Drink plenty of water before and after your treatment.

In the relaxation room and elsewhere, keep conversations at a low volume.

All aspects of treatment can be modified to your taste: amount of light, music selection and volume, room temperature, talking or no talking. If you would like for the pressure of your massage to be adjusted, let your therapist know. Also, feel free to ask questions. If any part of your experience is unsatisfactory, first tell the therapist. If the response isn't helpful, speak to a manager or the owner of the spa, if available.