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Plan a Perfect Spa Getaway

We’re setting our sights on stress-free spa getaways in honor of Mother’s Day. There is no one more deserving of a relaxing spa vacation than mom. Many travel sites are still offering last-minute deals. Even if you don’t find vacancies this holiday, consider these tips when planning any spa trip for a special weekend in the future.

Locations for Spa Vacations
If you prefer to stay close to home, consider a resort and spa near your hometown. If you’re up for an adventure, there are countless spas from coast to coast and around the globe with spectacular settings. Depending on your budget, there are also many different types of spas to choose. Luxury hotel and resort spas, wellness spas with healthy dining and activities, wilderness spa retreats, tropical spas, and an array of other destination spas abound. Perhaps mom loves to hike – then book that mountain spa with designated hiking trails during the day and options for a relaxing evening massage. If she loves the beach, why not schedule an outdoor massage on the spa’s patio overlooking the ocean.

Specialties and Spa Treatments
In addition to location and budget, consider any specific treatments you’ll want in advance. Before booking, be sure to check the spa’s website or call to ensure they offer it. Spas vary in services and specialties. Some might offer you 10 different medical-grade facial treatments, while others may provide none at all. Also, don’t be fooled by a resort’s name. Some places say they are a “spa,” but in actuality they have an empty room with an on-call massage therapist. For some, that will do just fine. For the rest of us, we want the full-scale spa experience, from fresh cucumber water to those cozy white robes.

Booking and Spa Packages
Once you’ve picked your spa getaway, consider any perks to purchasing a pre-arranged spa package. In addition to the cost savings, you’ll save valuable time. Leaving the details and planning to the spa’s staff means you’ll have more free time to enjoy the getaway. Whether you pick a pampering package or simply go for an a la carte body scrub, we advise booking your spa treatments prior to arrival to ensure you get what you want – when you want it – during your stay.

Tipping and Spa Service Fees
When considering budget, remember to factor in 15%-20% for tipping on certain services, such as after a massage. Some of the fancier resorts add this on your total bill as a service-fee or provide you a tipping envelope to simplify tipping on all gratuity-based services provided during the stay. Check with the management team in advance if budgeting is a concern, as these fees can add up quickly.
Alaska, Arizona, New York, or the Carolinas — there is no shortage of unique spa settings in the United States. For those able to travel abroad, you will have your pick of the most luxurious spas in the world, such as Switzerland or Dubai. Regardless of whether you travel the globe or stay somewhere close to home, we hope these tips will help you plan the perfect spa getaway for you and any loved ones deserving to be pampered.

Let us know via Twitter or Facebook if there is a spa or resort that you love to visit. Eat well, live long, and travel far!