What is a Luxury Spa?

Luxury spas are often located in exceptionally beautiful surroundings in terms of geographic location and the amenities of the facility. Located in cities throughout the world, luxury spas specialize in lavish beauty and health services. Prices can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars and up, depending on the spa and what services are purchased. A luxury spa may be a stand-alone business, or part of a resort or upscale hotel. Extensive travel may not be necessary to find one, as most major cities will have some form of a luxury spa.

Services typically offered by luxury spas include general therapeutic massage or massage geared toward health benefits such as the drainage of lymph nodes; facial treatments for wrinkles, acne, or other skin ailments; manicures, pedicures, and body scrubs. Herbal body wraps designed to induce water-weight loss are also common. Other services may include holistic or non-traditional medical treatments such as nutritional advice, acupuncture, health-related sleep issues, meditation, or yoga.

Generally, a luxury spa offers packages that are all-inclusive or services that may be purchased individually, with or without a minimum purchase requirement. Healthy beverages, snacks, or light meals may also be offered as part of the program. Depending on the size and scope of the spa, a fitness center that offers exercise classes with one-on-one instruction may be included. Aside from beauty treatments and exercise programs, some spas specialize in cosmetic procedures such as Botox® injections or cosmetic dental work.

Luxury spas may cater its services to couples in addition to offering packages that are geared toward girls-night-out celebrations. A minimum age requirement, often age 18, may be enforced. Tours of facilities are sometimes available if it does not infringe on the privacy of spa guests. A person should check the refund policy as cancellations or no-shows may be subject to a hefty fee or forfeiture of the entire cost if paid in advance. Such policies are typically stated on spa brochures or Websites.

Any health conditions such as high blood pressure or allergies typically should be reported to the spa before engaging in services. Some of the treatments can potentially raise blood pressure, for example. Pregnant women should also inquire about what services would be most appropriate for them. Finally, it is best to reserve services well in advance, especially when utilizing a luxury spa in a hotel. These spas tend to fill up from several weeks to months in advance.