Romantic Spas What You Need to Know …

Spas are the perfect choice for the romantic spa getaway, since spas offer couples the chance to unwind and pamper themselves over a few hours or even a few days. However, some couples find that once they check in for their romantic getaway, their paths will not cross until they meet to pay the final bill. To avoid this possibility, it is a good idea to do your homework and ask the right questions to ensure that the spa you choose really will inspire the romance that you are hoping for.

Couple`s Treatments

There is nothing more romantic than a relaxing massage for two.  What you need to decide is if you should have them together in a couple’s suite or in separate rooms.  As a therapist, I have seen couple’s have massages in the same room, and it was anything but relaxing or romantic.  Inevitably, one of the people was too busy observing the other person’s massage to enjoy the one they were receiving, or the couple felt the need to speak with each other the whole massage about dinner plans and by the time the massage ended they wanted to know where the hour went.  On the other hand, I have had massages with my husband in a couple’s suite and it was romantic, relaxing and wonderful.  Of course, we respect that this is each of our massage time.  We trust that they have the right therapist for each of us, so there is no need to give instructions or try to learn how to give a professional massage.  This is our time to heal so that when we come together we can give our full relaxed happy selves to the other.  Of course, because we are together in the same room, the positive loving energy surrounds us, and when the heart is balanced the body is balanced. So the lesson here is that you should choose which is better for you and your partner or discuss it with them.  Once you decide, that a couple’s room is important to you, then the first question you should ask a spa before booking a romantic getaway is whether treatments for two are available in the same room. Some resorts will have private rooms that are large enough to bring in two massage tables for the most private experience, but a cozy treatment room can provide a similar experience.  Keeping in mind that most spas only have one room for administering side-by-side treatments, it's extremely important to book early.

Couple’s Suites

There are other extras that a spa can offer to add to your romantic getaway. Some spas will offer couple`s suites that allow you to get your treatments together and then relax for a while afterward. At some spas, these suites will be packed to the brim with romance, including a fireplace, chromatherapy baths, steam shower and an outdoor area. In smaller spas, it may just be a large treatment room, but it is still a place where you can hang out together during and after your treatment sessions.

In Room Massages

Some spas, like The Watermark in San Antonio, Texas and The Cliff House in Ogunquit, Maine, have oversized rooms or spa suites big enough to bring two massage tables in for couples massage in your hotel room. While it may be appear to be the ultimate in romantic privacy.  I personally do not prefer this.  Spa Rooms are designed for sound control, have relaxing aromas, music, and proper room temperature, massage tools (hot and cold stones), hot towels, the best spa rooms have electric tables that are adjusted to each client’s body and are lighted properly.  Hotel rooms, may not have appropriate music, the telephone may ring, the landscapers may be blowing leaves, performing maintenance or knocking on doors for room service, or bed turn down.

The environment is not as controlled so if it can go wrong it will.  In addition, a portable massage table is not as comfortable and may not be adjusted to the correct height.  Plus you have to wait for it to be set up and broken down.  So think twice before you consider this.  It may not turn out the way you want.  Ask the spa and the hotel about specifics to insure that there will be no disturbances.

Relaxation Areas

Waiting areas are another consideration in planning a romantic spa getaway. Ask the spa about co-ed waiting areas before you book your getaway. Even better, a co-ed lounging area that includes:  a fireplace, great view or unisex Jacuzzis and steam rooms for a warm up to your massage and romance.

Ask the Pro’s

Before you go ask the spa that you have selected for their recommendations.  They know their facility best.  If it is a local spa go down and take a look at the facility so you can make sure that it is what you want.  I always like to go around the same day and time I am planning on having my service. This will give me a better idea of what I will encounter. 

First Time Spa Goer?

If you have never been to a spa before, review Spavelous Spa Etiquette area for some general guidelines, or better yet, read some of the Spavelous Spa Magazines.  The ones that will be most helpful are:

How To Spa: Questions To Answers
Is Hot Stone Massage Right For You?
Answers To Perfect Skin
Spas The New Men's Club

These articles will answer your questions about spa services, tipping, what to wear, what to expect during the services as well as questions about services for men.