Spa Tapas
by Elaine Cappellino

Tapas are popular and appearing on menus in many different venues. A recent trend has seen tapas appearing on spa menus as well. The idea of tapas is a small portion or sampling. Spas in resorts and hotels are offering tapas at their spas for travelers who want to experience a taste of luxury without the luxurious price tag. There are some spas purists who say that shortening the traditional spa treatments rob the customer of truly experiencing the benefits of the treatments, but other think it is a great way for everyday travelers to pamper themselves. Many of the services available on a spa tapas menu are shortened versions of traditional spa treatments.

Popular items on a Tapas Spa menu:

Refresher messages – These are targeted massages for the head, neck and shoulders. They can be offered in 30 minutes and are a quick way to relieve tension and stress. Foot massages are also popular and can be offered in combination with a pedicure.

Salt scrubs – Sea salt is massaged into the body to relax, exfoliate and release toxins. After rinsing, the scrub is usually followed by application of hydrating lotion or oil.

Paraffin treatments – These are soothing treatments for hands and feet. Hands and feet are dipped into the warm, melted wax and then wrapped and allowed to soak. These are hydrating treatments that lead to softer and more supple skin.

Facials – Facials are very popular and there are many different types of treatments that can be applied during a facial.

Mani/Pedi – These are often paired with massages, rubs and hydrating treatments.

How will you spoil your guests?