iVillage logo
Beauty & Fashion 
Advertisement
Topics
Hot stuff
Newsletters
Sign up for FREE!




 
Promotions

The best day spas

by Vicci Bentley

Need a break from the rat race? The advent of one-day spa packages could be just the ticket. Vicci Bentley investigates

Fancy a spot of serious pampering? Stylish, cultish and the antidote to urban stress, day spas are opening faster than branches of Starbucks. Great on a pop-in basis maybe - to loosen up your shoulders or get that quick-fix manicure before the weekend. But do they offer as good a value as their 'big sister' health farms? We suggest you study their form with our day spa round-up.

Before you go:

  • Make sure you get the most from your treatments - arrive 10 minutes early so you'll be relaxed. Some spas also charge penalties for late cancellations, so check company policy before you book.
  • Don't cold call to book. First, get a brochure and find out exactly what's involved with each treatment you'd like to try: How long will it take? Do you have to be naked? Will your beauty therapist be a man or a woman? Are there any hidden service charges?
  • Many spas lend bathrobes and slippers for the day, but some facilities may charge for this service. Also, make sure that the locker room facilities are decent - you'll probably want to shower before leaving.
  • If you're planning a spa day, think hard. Will yours offer lunch or refreshments between treatments? Is there a relaxation room? Will you be bored? Maybe it's worth looking into a serious health farm where the additional facilities could keep you amused - and fed - for less?

Once you've answered all these questions, if you decide the day spa experience is for you, indulge yourself at one of the following:

*blisslondon,
60 Sloane Avenue,
London, SW3 3DD
Tel: 020 7590 1790

www.blissworld.com

The knowledge:
It's finally here. New York's hippest spa has just opened its doors in the UK. Founded by beauty therapist to the stars, Marcia Kilgore, Bliss's signature Oxygen Facials and Ginger Rubs are cult treatments in the States, and other specialities have waiting lists over a month long.

iVillage TV - Beauty demos

View video in larger player


 1 |  2 3 4 5 next print printer friendly send to a friend
  
RATE IT
Loading ....
Loading ....
Delicious     Digg     reddit     Facebook     StumbleUpon