spa etiquette

By Tanya M. Williams, L.M.B.T.

Dear Tanya,

I've always wondered, what is considered an appropriate tip for a spa therapist?

A: There are a few important things to keep in mind when it comes to tipping. First, does the spa include gratuity in the price of the treatment? Many destination spas do, but most day spas do not. If a tip is not included, the general rule of thumb is 15-20% of the price of the treatment. Tip more if the service was exceptional and less if it was average, since your gratuity is often the only feedback a therapist gets about your level of satisfaction. It is also worth noting that while a massage may cost between $65 and $100 per hour depending on the spa, body workers are only paid a fraction of that amount. At most spas, the practitioner earns between 30% and 50% of the cost of the treatment, so tips comprise a significant portion of their income. And although there are similarities in tipping etiquette between the spa and restaurant industries, there is one important difference, with a spa treatment, you are getting the chef and the server rolled into one.

Send me your spa etiquette questions! Email Tanya at: editorial@healinglifestyles.com.