Fashion
What exactlyis a Spa?
Gary Callan
I know this has a lot ofmy clients confused, so I thought I would dedicate this columnto the explanation of what a Spa is, or more importantly, whatit isn't.
Obviously the original meaninghas been dropped, as very few spas are constructed around naturalmineral springs. Today, spas can be divided into two types: Residentialand Day spa. We do not have any residential spas on the Island.These are resorts designed for relaxation, rejuvenation, and restoration.They often include exercise, health and nutritional classes. Thewhole purpose of going to one of these facilities it to feel pampered.Strawberry Hill, Dorral and Champneys are examples of these. Usuallythe cost will include a spa package, and you will be given a dailyschedule.
Some people still referto these as 'Health Farms ', or 'Retreats'. We have hotels withspas, but not spa resorts. There is a difference.
The day spa is quite anothercup of tea. These are businesses created to provide many of theservice and treatment you would receive at a residential spa,but on a daily basis. You can spend 10 minutes or 10 hours atthe Day Spa. Services range from massage, to body wraps, fromfacials to waxing etc. I believe I brought the concept of a DaySpa to the Island, not that it was new or original, it's justthat no one else was using it here?.
As I drive around now, Isee the word spa added to all sorts of things. Some people thinkif they have a couple of bottles of nail polish they have a spa.Or if they offer massage they have a spa. Not so! Nor is a condominiumwith a Jacuzzi a spa.
The most important ingredientin a day spa is the staff. They have you be experts in their specialty.They must have a broad and varied experience, dealing with allskin and body types. They must be professional and discrete. Aboveall they must be friendly and courteous. These are people whowill see you at your most vulnerable. You should trust them. Ifany of these spas I see popping up can claim all of these things,then they might be worth a visit. If not stick to the tried testedand approved ones.
Until next week
Gary