5 things to consider before booking your first spa break
Here are some of the factors to keep in mind
Location, location, location
When it comes to the ultimate luxury spa break, choose your destination based on what you want to get from the experience, not what is the most convenient. A spa break should be about escape, not staying as close to home as possible!
If you are looking to achieve complete peace from your trip, it is worth moving away from the busy city life to the countryside or coastal locations. Scientific research has shown a link between natural outdoor environments and higher levels of relaxation and stress reduction. Many hotel spas and spa resorts are set amidst acres of lush green parkland, walking trails, forests and lakes, but are often within driving distance of a town or city too.
Choosing your spa partner
“We see a mixture of people come through our spa doors – friends, couples, family and day guests,” says Aoife Daly, Spa Manager of The Spa at 5-Star Castlemartyr Resort, Co Cork (www.castlemartyrresort.ie). “Spa escapes are also perfect for girlie trips, private parties, honeymoons and first anniversaries.”
Aoife says she has seen gender stereotyping in the spa industry, but says spa treatments have become more popular for men, as well as women.
“Some men might not admit they are coming to the spa, but when they go, they end up really enjoying it. I think this is great because everyone should treat themselves to a spa treatment at least once in their life. Although once you get a taste, it’s difficult not to get hooked!”
When deciding who to bring along with you on your spa break, there is no certain criteria as to who would be best suited. Just make sure it is not your extremely chatty friend!
Search for quality
Once you have decided whether you want a day visit to the spa or an overnight stay, research the treatments available and the leisure facilities you will have access to in your desired location. For example, the steam room, pool and saunas.
“We give our clients a full consultation over the phone before they arrive, so that they are aware of what to bring and what to expect from start to finish,” says Aoife, who has many years of experience in the spa industry in Ireland and abroad. “Spa therapists can advise on the treatments that would best suit individuals on the day, if required. However, do plan ahead and book in advance so that you can secure the exact day and treatment time you would like.”
Time is of the essence
A spa break should be relaxing, so avoid rushing your experience, advises Emma Doyle, Spa Manager of Seoíd Spa at 4-Star Dunboyne Castle Hotel, Co Meath.
“We recommend arriving an hour prior to your allocated treatment time to make full use of the thermal suite facilities and to benefit fully from your spa experience. You could start in the hydrotherapy pool, and let the heated water wash away your stress. Once you’re finished with your dip, lounge in the laconium for a dry heat treatment or our steam room to relax your muscles. Both of these gently raise your temperature, helping your body eliminate toxins. Finally, take a cold shower for extra rejuvenation, before moving onto the treatment rooms.”
Pack it in
There is no doubt that everybody loves a good deal – but a good deal does not mean you need to sacrifice the luxury. Hotel and resort spas offer many mid-week and package deals to suit all preferences and budgets. Many packages can combine massages and facials, with lunch included and full use of the facilities.
Package offers are often a great choice for special occasions, such as birthdays, anniversaries, a honeymoon or even an engagement.
“If it is for a special occasion or for someone who has gone through a tough time, we can help to make the experience extra special for the guests,” says Aoife Daly. “For example, by providing a complimentary glass of prosecco, chocolate strawberries or even the private suite.
“We had a gentleman who was proposing to his girlfriend and we helped to book her in for a manicure, to prepare her hand for the ring. The hotel manager also helped to set up a space beside the lake for the proposal. Thankfully, the woman said yes! It’s little moments like this that make it all worthwhile.”