The tranquil decor is clean white and soothing cerulean blue. Abstract sculpture is scattered about the uncluttered space. The delicate scent of jasmine is barely perceptible, but you can already feel the relaxing effect. Tinkling music plays softly in the background. Ah, yes! This spa is the right choice.
  
All spas create a serene atmosphere of peace and harmony, but how do you choose between a resort spa and a health or destination spa? First, determine the purpose of your visit. It might be for stress relief, to soothe sore muscles, to jumpstart a healthy lifestyle or to freshen up your skin. Next, consider your travel companions’ interests. Does anyone want to play golf or are you traveling with children?

What is a Resort Spa?

Resort spas generally do not include meals and charge a la carte for classes and spa treatments. Many do have children’s programs to entertain kids while you spa. They often have other activities like golf and swimming pools that your partner can enjoy while you are at the spa. Essentially, resort spas are an additional amenity to the overall resort experience. Resort spas are much more common than destination spas and are a good choice if you’d like to mix a little spa into your family vacation, destination wedding or business trip. 

Choose a resort spa when you want:

• To eat and drink “resort food”
• To spend time with family
• Other activities like golf, tennis and swimming pools
• To enjoy spa treatments while companions do something different
• A specific vacation destination like Hawaii or Scottsdale

What is a Destination Spa?

Destination or health spas usually include meals, lectures and extensive class programming in their rates. In addition, they often have minimum stay requirements. Destination spas are immersion environments where all activities are focused on personal growth and getting healthy in body and mind. As such, they are adult settings that do not accept children. Only healthy meals are offered and most don’t serve alcohol. 

Destination spas should be your choice when you want:

• To attend a schedule of classes – yoga, exercise, diet, meditation, etc.
• To emotionally heal or be nurtured after a major life event
• To adopt healthy lifestyle habits or address specific health issues
• A camaraderie with like-minded people
• Are traveling alone

If you are new to the spa experience, don’t be intimidated by the unknown – just ask. Your travel advisor is happy to answer your questions about any quality spas. Be sure to advise whether you prefer a male or female therapist. Ask about tipping and what clothing is best for your treatment. Remember that a perfect body is not a prerequisite and only the part being worked on is exposed. A shower before your treatment allows products to absorb well into the skin and since spa services naturally release the toxins in your body, drinking lots of water after the treatment helps to flush them out.

Remember, spa vacations are not just for women – over 30% of spa-goers are men. For help choosing the perfect spa for you, contact Covington Travel’s knowledgeable vacation advisors.