It’s that time of year again. You’ve just about worked off the excess indulgence of Christmas and, despite the occasional flashes of sunshine and the shops full of bikinis and summer dresses, summer is still merely a glimmer on the horizon. It’s about time for a rewarding relaxation break this Easter holiday – and spa hotels are all about providing exactly that.
The history of the ‘spa holiday’ can be traced right back to pre-history, when the natural hot springs of destinations such as Rome, Bath and Japan would attract hordes of rich patrons and the desperately ill. However, modern day spa hotels offer more than a bit of hot water. A health spa usually now includes a range of massages, therapies and classes, from the traditional manicures, pedicures and facials to Indian head massage and yoga.
If your budget can stretch to a spa break abroad, then set your sights on Western Europe. Great spa hotels can be tracked right across the continent, from Italy and France to Spain and Portugal. Not only will a holiday abroad give you a change of scene from the day to day toil, Western European holidays are also a better guarantee of some much needed sunshine to break up the uncertain British weather!
On the other hand, if you can’t quite afford to holiday abroad, then many great spa hotels can be found in the UK itself, from major brand companies to smaller, more personal health spa options. British hotels often feature more authentically historic architecture, providing spa treatments in such an attractive environment as to balance out any disappointment in the event of a rainy Easter period.
Many hotels now are not solely spa hotels, but may offer spa treatments as they strive to meet increasing demand for health spa holidays. If childcare is an issue, or if the whole family are clamouring for a weekend away, it may be an idea to check into one of these, leaving your spouse with the kids while you enjoy a day of peace and quiet in the spa. Not only do the whole family get a break from the stresses and strains of daily life, it may prove a relief to end a day’s solitude with the familiar comfort of family chatter.
One spa hotel may offer dramatically different services and treatments to another so it is always worth checking the programme of treatments before you book, ensuring that the treatments advertised by the hotel will actually be available during your stay. Some health spas aim to provide a rigorous range of intensive treatments while others may seek a more relaxed approach. Of course, if the treatment programme is less important to you than the location or luxury of the hotel then this is irrelevant.
If your budget is even smaller or if childcare is an issue, a single day at a health spa will be both cheaper and easier to organise. Many spa hotels offer single day programmes, usually inclusive of a light lunch and three or four treatments, often for a slight reduction in price (although it is worth checking any discounts before booking.)
With such a range of spas, treatments and prices on offer, there is really no reason not to take at least a day out of your Easter holiday for a bit of ‘me time’ to leave you refreshed and ready for summer.
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