10 Tips for a refreshing and
romantic spa experience for couples

Today, an increasing number of couples are looking at spas as the new event for spending quality time together.

"Couples enjoying spas together are becoming the norm," says Anne Dimon, spa journalist and founder/editor of Travel to Wellness , the e-magazine and online resource for the wellness-minded traveler. "The double treatment room has become a standard feature at spas around the world."

As the spa becomes an accepted and desired refuge for quality "us" time, resort spas are ramping up the romance for those travelers who need some spark and sizzle in their relationship.

For couples thinking of igniting the spark or rekindling the flame with a spa experience — be it a simple one-hour treatment for two, a day at the spa or a out-of-town getaway — Dimon offers 10 tips to make sure the experience doesn't leave you or your significant other out in the cold:

1. Keeping in mind that most spas only have one room for administering side-by-side treatments, it's extremely important to book early. Of course, two rooms is another option but it is hardly as romantic sharing the same room.

2. If you are a savvy spa-goer and this is the first time for your
significant other, go easy on the specialty treatments. Stick with some of the more traditional treatments such as a basic massage, a facial, a manicure or pedicure. Leave the wraps, scrubs and exotic signature treatments for a return visit.

3. Don't wait until you arrive at the spa to let your preference for a male or female therapist be known. The request should be made at time of booking. Keep in mind, however, that most spas cannot guarantee this type of request. As in any business, if someone calls in sick, there's a lot of last minute scrambling.

4. If you're booking a "couples" treatment room - also referred to as a VIP suites or doubles room—ask for a description, better yet, look for images on the spa's web site. While some are simply two side-by-side treatment rooms with an adjoining door others can be quite elaborate with ensuite fireplace, a double soaker tub or shower stall, a private patio or terrace and sensuous décor.

5. If you want to extend the treatment into a full experience, ask if the spa serves lunch or dinner after or between treatments. Ask if they have a private area where you can enjoy the meal.

6. Ask if the lounge is co-ed or if the sexes are segregated. If you're looking forward to a sauna with your sweetie, you'll be disappointed if you end up eliminating your toxins with the girls while he is sweating it out with the boys because there is no co-ed sauna. What about other facilities such as hot tub, whirlpool, swimming pool or gym? Are they co-ed?

7. Bring a bathing suit. You'll need it for the co-ed facilities.

8. If you're planning an out-of-town spa getaway, ask yourself what's important beyond the spa experience. Do you want gourmet cuisine, optional recreational activities, evening entertainment?

9. If your significant other prefers manicured greens to the perfect pedicure, no problem. Many resorts have both spas and golf courses. Find one that offers both and you'll both be happy.

10. Spas at popular resorts tend to book up quickly. To avoid
disappointment, book your treatments when reserve your room.

For a listing of some of the most romantic spas around the continent and beyond, visit Travel to Wellness.

To view ROAD & TRAVEL Magazine's Spa Reviews, click here.

(Source: TraveltoWellness.com )