Will the therapist touch private areas of my body during a massage?
A massage is a therapeutic treatment, not sexual stimulating. However some people are uncomfortable being touched in certain areas, such as the buttocks or the breasts, and massage therapist will respect this. Depending on where you are, therapists are sometimes required to ask before touching certain parts of the body. If your therapist doesn't ask, and there are areas that you'd refer to keep off limits, simply let her know before the massage begins. Your comfort is of utmost importance.

I have a back injury. Can I still get a massage?
Whether a massage would be beneficial or harmful depends on the type of injury and the type of massage. You should discuss this (and any other medical conditions you have) with the spa when you plan your program, so they can determine what type of treatments would be the best for you. In many cases, massage can be extremely therapeutic for back problems.

I really don't want a strange man/woman touching me. Can I choose the gender of my massage therapist? Massage is meant to be enjoyable as well as healing. Before you sign up for a treatment, let the spa know that you prefer a therapist of the same sex. In most cases, they will be able to accommodate you.

I have problem skin (acne, dry skin, outbreaks, oily skin, broken capillaries, etc). Will a facial help or make it worse? Facials can be very beneficial for all skin types. Your esthetician should ask you questions about the health of your skin and your body in general prior to your facial. Be sure to let her know if you are pregnant, are on any medication or have any allergies or skin problems. She will then choose the type of facial-deep cleaning, soothing and so on-that is right for you.

I've never even heard of some of the treatments they offer at spas. How can I choose the best treatments for me?
Each treatment has a specific purpose and therapeutic function. A good spa menu will describe treatments in detail, and the spa staff can help you determine which treatments are best for you. Be sure to let the therapist know if you have any special medical conditions before beginning any treatment.

Will I have privacy when I get a treatment, or will other people be in the same room?
Body treatments are almost always done in private rooms. If you have concerns, simply ask before booking a treatment.

Are gratuities included in the spa fee?
Spa program/treatment fees sometimes include gratuities, sometimes not. Be sure to check the spa services menu/ brochure for this information. And remember that your travel agent can help you find out any of these questions or any other questions that you might have.

My life is already regimented at home. Do I have to follow a strict regimen at a spa?
Spa programs vary tremendously. Some spas, such as medical spas, weight-loss spas, or spas offering special programs, like to coordinate a schedule for guests prior to or upon arrival for treatments, consultations with nutritionists and so on. Others allow guest to follow a more relaxed agenda of whatever, whenever. While no spa will try to force you to do anything you don't want to, if you prefer to sleep late or spend long hours reading a good book, it may be best (and most cost-efficient) for you to select a spa with a more unstructured program.

I'm going alone to the spa. Will I have trouble meeting people?
Spas are excellent places to make new friends, and many guests go on their own. At many destination spas, during meals and group activities, you'll find yourself meeting and conversing with people from all kinds of backgrounds.

What about accommodations? Will I have a private room at the spa?
Most spas provide you with private accommodations, but a few offer only shared rooms. Check with the spa or your travel agent to find out what type of arrangements they offer.

Are most spas co-ed??
Yes, but they usually have separate spa facilities for men and women. A few spas are women-only.

What's included in the price of a spa package?
Spa programs and their costs vary dramatically. An all-inclusive spa package at a destination spa generally includes just about everything-your food, room, exercise classes, use of the fitness facilities, fitness/nutrition consultations, and several spa treatments. A Basic spa package at a resort spa will usually cover your room, all or some meals, use of the fitness facilities and at least a few spa treatments.

May I bring my family to the spa?
A few spas don't encourage children, and many destination spas do not have facilities or programs for kids. A better choice for a family would be a resort spa that caters to all ages, and there are a number of those in all price ranges.

I'm on a special diet. Will the spa accommodate me?
Spas generally try to accommodate their guest, and that may sometimes include repairing special meals. If there are certain foods that you cannot ear for medical or ethical reason, you should let the spa know before your arrival. I you are on a diet that includes very unusual foods or a complex system of preparation, it would be wise to discuss this with the spa before booking.

Do people eat "real" food at spas, or just "diet" food?
Spa Cuisine is not tasteless, Spartan fare. Rather, these days, it's usually very healthy low-fat, low-sugar, organic and unprocessed and very gourmet. Remember: Spas are not about deprivation; they are about good health and enjoyment.