May 01, 2000
Meetings & Conventions: Planner's Portfolio May 2000 Current Issue
May2000 ChecklistPLANNER'S PORTFOLIO:

Checklist

BY CHERYL-ANNE STURKEN

HOW TO SITE-INSPECT A SPA

The following checklist was compiled with the help of the International Spa Association, 546 E. Main St., Lexington, Ky., 40508; www.experienceispa.com

DETERMINING NEEDS

  • Decide what type of spa you want to visit (destination, resort, mineral springs, medical, cruise ship, club, day spa).
  • What type of spa setting do you prefer (desert, tropical island, metropolis)?
  • For how many days will your group be at the facility?
  • How many attendees will be using the spa’s services?
  • Do you want a preplanned, all-day schedule or one that includes a lot of free time?
  • What types of spa elements will be appropriate (fitness classes, pampering, health and wellness programs)?
  • What is the budget?

    • INSPECTING THE FACILITY

  • What are the hours of operation?
  • How many treatment rooms are available? What is their condition?
  • How many whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms and lap pools are there?
  • How many therapists are available? Can more be added during periods of heavy use?
  • Do staff members seem friendly and professional? Is there a staff dress code?
  • Are staff members available to help with and teach the proper use of fitness and weight-training equipment?
  • What types of services are offered? Are any services special to the spa, such as unique body treatments?
  • What is the duration and price of each program?
  • Are programs flexible enough to accommodate a variety of goals, fitness levels and needs?
  • Is signage posted to alert and educate guests about possible risks in exercise pools, wet areas, saunas, steam rooms, whirlpools and exercise rooms?
  • Are there separate changing areas for men and women, and are lockers provided?
  • Are floor surfaces designed and constructed to accommodate the intended activities (tile in wet areas, wooden floors in exercise areas)?
  • Is there an attendant in each waiting area?
  • Are robes and disposable footwear provided?
  • Where is the spa located rel- ative to meeting facilities, guest rooms and public areas? Does it have its own entrance?
  • Does the facility comply with the Americans With Disabilities Act?
  • Is a written emergency plan posted in plain view?

    • IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS

  • Will the spa complete a confidential screening of each guest to assess the appropriateness of activities and services before advising them or allowing them to proceed?
  • Will all guest-history and counseling information be kept strictly confidential?
  • How does the spa handle guest complaints?
  • Will a staff member trained in CPR be on-site and available during spa hours?
  • Will the facility provide a list of appropriate attire for different activities?
  • Are gratuities included in the service, or are they additional? If additional, ask for tipping guidelines.
  • Does the spa provide material covering philosophy, rates, deposits, cancellation policy and grace periods for refunds?
  • What are the qualifications of spa staff? How long has each staff member been employed by the facility?
  • Does the spa have its own restaurant and spa menu?


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