Spa Day Etiquette

I am a pushover for a massage and for me, few things are more relaxing than an entire “spa day.” But if you’ve never enjoyed the benefits of a day of pampering, the culture can be a tad intimidating. When you know what’s expected of you while you are there, you will be able to more fully appreciate your relaxing experience. Here are some of my tips on how to best enjoy your day:

1. Ask questions. When you are making your appointment(s), don’t hesitate to inquire about anything you are unsure or uncomfortable about. If you prefer a female rather than a male, let the scheduler know upfront. Any special requests, such as a female masseuse, or allergies to certain products should be mentioned at the time of the appointment and then again on the day of the treatment.
2. Arrive a few minutes early. Plan to get there approximately 15 minutes before your first appointment.  You will need to check in and fill out some basic paperwork.  Then you can relax in a designated area and enjoy a cup of green tea or vitamin infused water while you wait for your first spa session to begin.
3. Respect your surroundings. No cell phones allowed while in the spa, and taking calls before or after your appointment is viewed as rude and prevents you and others from fully enjoying the spa experience. Keep your voice low, unplug and recharge.
4. Expect to be bare. Professional massage therapists follow strict guidelines when it comes to privacy and the draping of the sheets. What you choose to expose, or not to expose, is up to you. Your comfort is their first priority. Take advantage of the soft robe you are offered to wear around the facility. Therapists typically leave the room and allow you to undress and get situated on the massage table, under a sheet, before they re-enter and begin the massage.
5. Shhh… No need to make conversation during your massage. Unless you are particularly interested in being chatty throughout your massage, close your eyes, relax and enjoy the relaxing experience.
6. Be a gracious tipper. Some facilities include the gratuity into the cost of the session. Others offer an envelope at the front desk that you can place your gratuity in. The standard tip is between 15 and 20 percent of the session.
7.  Walk in fresh and clean. Larger spas will have locker rooms with showers for you to freshen up after a sauna or yoga class, and before your massage. Avoid applying heavy scented cream before your massage.
8. Take advantage of the amenities. Spas vary in what they offer but some provide shampoo and conditioner, hair spray, tooth brushes, etc. to enjoy after your treatment. Others do not so ask in advance to be prepared.
9.  Be aware of the spa’s cancellation policies. Things happen and you may find the need to cancel your spa day. Most places will charge a fee if you cancel with little to no notice so make sure and cancel in a timely manner.
10. Drink lots of water. Replenish and hydrate your body after your massage and throughout the day while enjoying your multiple spa treatments. Don’t forget to have lunch or eat a snack so you don’t experience a lull in your mood or energy level.

Lucky you…enjoy!!!

About the Author:

Diane Gottsman is a national etiquette expert and a popular "go to" resource to the modern executive. She travels nationally teaching corporations and universities in the finer points of manners and protocol. Diane is the owner of The Protocol School of Texas and the resident etiquette expert on a successful morning television show, SA Living, an NBC television affiliate. She is routinely quoted in national media outlets such as Real Simple, HGTV Magazine, The New York Times, CNN, Bloomberg Business Week, U.S. News & World Report, CBS Money Watch, Kiplinger's and Forbes. The latter publication previously named her blog one of the "Top 100 Websites for Women."

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