The Private Therapist Vs. A Big Spa
Monday April 7, 2008
I've just started seeing a massage therapist for neuromuscular training who used to work at one of the best-known resort spas in Phoenix. To get a massage from her there would cost $220 for 80 minutes -- BEFORE the tax and tip, which pushes it up towards $300. I'm getting a 90-minute treatment from the same skilled therapist for $110 -- no tax and tip. So what are the trade-offs? She's in a chiropractor's office, so there's no luxurious setting, no steam or hot tub, no fluffy robes and slippers. I can't spend the day there. It's not an "experience." But at that price I can afford to go a couple of times a month. And because I see her regularly, she's getting to know my body. She works on problem areas and can assess my progress. So there's a place for the fancy spa, but don't forget the private therapist.
Comments
I have worked in one of the Top Resort Spas in Florida for the past 18 years, we offer all the bells and whisles. Our clent/guest mix is about 80% Resort and 20% local and my standard response to all who ask “how often should I get a massage” is as follows with a smile in my voice: “DAILY” however I realize that will not work for most of us but if you could budget time and money for weekly that would be great, yet I know too that will not always work, so go for bi-weekly or once a month to receive the cumulative benefits. Spas are great and offer many amenities but they are pricey so my suggestion is find 2 therapist in your immediate area and start utilizing their expertise for your routine massages AND every 3-4 months treat yourself to another “Spa Day” gather a couple of girlfriends and spend the morning or afternoon getting facials, mani/pedicures, body exfoliation & massage, don’t forget to order lunch if available. Most Spa’s offer “package combinations” often slightly discounted for your consideration. If you will add this to your lifestyle it will be the greatest gift you can yourself and you are worth it, and your family too will appreciate the new you that returns home that evening. HAVE A GREAT DAY”
I have been an RMT in Ontario for about 12 years. I have worked in a variety of places including day spa’s, medical spa’s, resorts, chiropractic offices and home. I can tell you that no matter where you go to get a treatment(in Canada), your “Massage Therapist” will have gone through the same extensive training and examination process regardless of where they end up working. It is the job of both the client and the therapist to communicate clearly to ensure that the treatment received is exactly what you as a client has ordered.
I agree with the comment entered by Joe. Find yourself a good therapist that works either from their own office or from home. If you choose to go to someone’s home, for safety reasons – make sure you go to someone whom you have been referred to. And finally…when seeking the help from an RMT make sure that you remain consistant in order to see results.
If your treatments are scheduled haphazardly, your results will reflect that.
My wife and I got really tired of getting gouged on massage prices at spas and resorts. It especially stung when time went from 60 minutes to 50 minutes and in some cases to 45 minutes. Ambience is nice but after the hour is over we would have a $400 bill. Our solution has to been to book with local massage businesses when we go to resorts or spas. Price? About 1/3 to 1/4 and we get a full 60 minutes plus some local flavor. Ambience is pretty good. In New England these days the going rate is $45 or $50 for a full hour.