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When You’re a Spa Virgin
Don’t know if you’re supposed to leave your undies on,
or who should get a tip? We’ve got the scoop for spa novices.
Spending a few pre-wedding days a spa and not quite sure what
to expect? You’re not alone—plenty of engaged women find
themselves entering a spa for the very first time in the days leading
up to their nuptials. Truth be told, I found myself stuck in chi-chi
spa locker room a week before my own wedding, unable to decide whether
or not I was supposed to keep my undies on. Don’t worry. We’ve
got the answers to all your first-timer questions.
So when should I get there?
You may be able to fly into your corner nail salon unannounced for
a last-minute manicure, but when it comes to spa appointments, it’s
always best to arrive at least 20 minutes prior to your first treatment.
Sure it sounds excessive, but the extra stretch will give you ample
time to check in, undress and unwind. Something else to keep in mind:
At some spas, a late arrival will result in abbreviated treatment
time.
What on earth am I supposed to wear?
Wear what you want to the spa—most will provide you with a cushy
robe and slippers for the duration of your stay. It’s only during
any type of bodywork treatment that the undies-on-or-off question
comes into play. But guess what? The choice is yours. So go ahead
and disrobe entirely if you feel comfortable—professional practitioners
provide draping to ensure your privacy—or feel free to leave
your undergarments on, or simply wear a bathing suit. The idea is
that your feel completely comfortable, and completely relaxed.
I love my robe and slippers—can I keep them?
Sorry, but no. These items are simply on loan to you during your spa
visit, although some spas offer similar versions for sale in their
gift shops.
Do I have to talk to my practitioner?
Nope. Go right ahead and zone out if idle chatter’s not your
thing. Just politely let your therapist know you’d like to keep
things quiet. And if you do feel like chatting, you can go right ahead
and do that, too.
What if I’m pregnant?
If you’re pregnant, you may want to 86 any treatments that involve
essential oils, deep pressure, or hydrotherapy heat. Be sure to advise
the spa upon booking.
Can I wear my jewelry?
It’s best to leave your tiara and any other valuables, including
your watch, at home. Your practitioner will probably ask you to remove
them during your treatments anyway.
Should I tip?
Leaving gratuities for work well done—although optional—seems
to be the spa norm. Most tips range from 15 percent to 20 percent
of the price of the service provided. Keep in mind that some spas
won’t add tips to your credit card charges. Spas usually provide
an envelope at the front desk when checking out for you to place the
gratuity into it with the therapist’s name, so you can leave
your wallet in a locker or at the reception area instead of carrying
money around with you while enjoying the facilities
Can
I cancel an appointment?
Sure, but give the spa at least 24 hours notice. There are plenty
of other visitors anxiously awaiting cancellations, and this will
give the spa time to accommodate them. At many spas guests who do
not give 24 hours notice will be charged in full—yikes!—for
all services booked, whether they actually receive them or not. |
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