Using a new spa for the first time is something that makes a lot of people nervous. Hotel guidelines for spas typically give the impression that everyone already knows what they’re doing, so guests can feel awkward asking. The good news is that most of the rules are really quite simple and your common sense will go a long way.
First, you should follow movie theater protocol in a spa: Cell phones are off, or left in your room entirely. Talking or noisily using your phone is distracting to everyone else and keeps you from relaxing so why are you in the spa anyway? If you really have something important you need to check on keep it to emails and texts. Phone calls should only be made outside the spa.
Most massages are done while you are fully nude, although have your intimate bits covered with a sheet or towel. If this is uncomfortable for you, you can always ask to either leave some of your clothes on or do a different activity where you can keep clothed. Remember a spa is kind of like going to a doctor’s office, they’ve already seen it all before and are more focused on getting a good tip than how weird your body looks.
For tipping, the usual 15-20% is expected. Although it depends on the spa. Some spas will include tipping in the fees, gift certificates might also include tip. Otherwise be expected to pay up.
If you have an appointment, be sure to get to the spa early. Usually there’s some paperwork or changing clothes/disrobing to do. If you miss the start of your treatment then that just means you’re getting less of what you paid for. If you need to cancel an appointment you should try to notify them at least 24 hours ahead of time or you might be charged anyway.
Keep these in mind and remember the most important part of being in a spa is to relax, keep things quiet and low-key and you’ll be fine. And of course if you have any questions or concerns simply ask someone and they will be happy to help out.