Spa Types

Spas can vary considerably in their approach to treating you. They can range from basic massage centers where you pop in for an hour or so, get a rubdown and leave, to health retreats, where you stay for a couple of weeks on a strict regimen of treatments, exercise, a special diet and perhaps even a course of enemas.

According to the International Spa Association, from 1999 to 2001, the number of spa visits in the United States surged 71%. During that time, ISPA says, the number of spas in hotels and resorts across the country more than doubled.

It's important to choose the type that is best for what you want to achieve.Below are the main categories of spas. Many spas fit more than one category.