How to make the most of your spa visit

Let's face it, for those of us living in the UAE, going to the spa is much more a part of our routine than it would be back home. However, a trip to the spa can be a little intimidating, especially if it's a first-time visit. And even if you're a regular spa-goer, sometimes you can end up feeling like you might have enjoyed your experience more, had you known some insider secret. We've got ten handy hints from the experts:

1. Choose right. When selecting a treatment, make sure to get all the information you need. Check the treatment menu or the spa website, and ask lots of questions. "Many spas have specialists in certain treatments. Don't hesitate to ask for the manager or a therapist, if the receptionist cannot handle all your queries. Talk about your requirements and your physical condition in detail so the spa can prescribe the right treatment for you," advises Salina Handa, founder of SensAsia urban spas.

2. Grab a deal. Keep an eye out for special promotions, treatment packages and loyalty programmes at your favourite spa — your dirham will go a lot further. However, when looking for good value, check details such as treatment duration, says Alison Walker, director of integrative healthat Six Senses Destination Spa in Phuket. "For example, a body scrub for Dh150 may sound like a great deal, but when you get there, you might find that it only lasts 30 minutes," she warns.

3. Stretch the treat. Always go for a 90-minute option of a treatment instead of a one-hour session, when available, Salina suggests. "The price isn't always exactly 50 per cent more, but the treatment is, so you do get more out of the experience," she says.

4. Be an early bird. Most spas recommend arriving at least 15 minutes early, but if you have time to spare, get there half an hour to 45 minutes earlier, says Alison. "This is a must, as you should prepare your body with a shower or a steam, especially before a massage," she says. "Also, it usually takes around ten minutes to change and get comfortable, which is taken out from your massage time if you don't arrive early."

5. Get wet. Check if the spa offers facilities such as steam room, sauna, Jacuzzi and swimming pool access, as these are usually complimentary with a treatment booking. Don't forget to carry your swimwear along, and planyour appointment in a way that you have the time to enjoy these facilities.

6. Prioritise paperwork. Take the pre-treatment consultation form seriously, says Salina. "Even if you don't think something is relevant, such as say, a minor backache or an allergy, there are steps the therapist can take to protect and help with certain conditions. So, even the minute details are important."

7. Be honest. "If you're uncomfortable with anything during the treatment — the pressure, the music, the temperature — speak up," says Alison. "The therapist will make an adjustment. For best results in a massage, your body should be warm, so the muscles can relax and blood can flow." A good therapist should ask you if you're comfortable, so don't hesitate to tell her if anything is bothering you.

8. Cover up. Modesty is a key issue, especially in this part of the world. To make sure there aren't any embarrassing slip-ups, always change in private. "Your therapist should ask you if you want your stomach or breasts massaged, as these are delicate areas," adds Alison.

9. Go slow. "When the treatment ends, don't get up from the massage bed too fast," says Alison. "Take your time, and make use of the post-treatment facilities. Most spas have a relaxation room - lie there for at least 20 minutes after a treatment. Rushing off straight after a relaxing spa treatment is counter-productive to the whole experience."

10. Listen up. Take the post-treatment advice on board — it's like a free lifestyle consultation. "A good spa usually hands out a home-care card, it's part of the service and is important to continue getting the benefits of the treatment," says Charlene Florian Barker, vice president of spa brand Kerstin Florian. However, don't feel pressurised into buying products unless you are really happy with the results, and are sure you are going to use them. "If an entire range is recommended, ask for two products that make up a basic skincare regime — a good moisturiser is key."