The feel good factor is alive and well aboard the latest cruise ships, which offer a growing array of beauty salons and body-pampering treatments – but the costs can quickly add up. Words Douglas Ward
As we constantly move in “fast-forward” mode we create stress; muscles become taut and knotted. So, taking time out to pamper ourselves is a good way to combine “me” vacation time with moments of indulgence.
Land-based health spas have long provided a range of body treatments and services for those who wanted to hide away at a venue (health farm) in the countryside. With the increase in awareness of the body beautiful and the importance of wellbeing has come a whole new array of shipboard spas to rival those on land, particularly in the range of body-pampering treatments available. Today’s cruise ships have elaborate spas where, for an extra fee, whole days of almost continuous treatments are on offer.
A visit to the ship’s spa will help you to relax and feel pampered. Many people not used to spas may find some of the terminology daunting: aromatherapy, hydrotherapy, ionithermie, rasul, thalassotherapy. Spa staff are used to first-time users, however, and will help you choose the massage or other treatment that best suits you and your needs. It’s a good idea to visit the spa on embarkation day, when staff will be on hand to show you round, and answer your questions. Some cruise lines let you pre-book spa treatments online before your cruise.
Facilities
Large resort ships will have a large gymnasium with ocean views, saunas, steam rooms, rasul chamber, several body treatment rooms, thalassotherapy pool, relaxation area, changing/locker rooms, and a beauty salon. Some ships even have acupuncture treatment clinics, and some have a built-in juice bar.
Thermal suites
Thermal suites (no, they’re not specially insulated cabins) are private areas that provide a combination of various warm scented rain showers, saunas, steam rooms, thalassotherapy (saltwater) pools and relaxation zones, offering the promise of ultimate relaxation. While most ships do not charge for use of the sauna or steam room, some make a per-day charge (examples: MSC Musica £20; Norwegian Gem £13; Queen Mary 2, £16.50). Note that some ships add a gratuity to a spa day pass, even though it is supposed to be included.
Read more in the October 2010 edition of Living Abroad Magazine
