The spa experience, appreciated by other cultures for generations, has truly been embraced by the American audience over the past ten or fifteen years.  Disney has risen to the challenge, offering facilities at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa in Disneyland; Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa and Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa at Walt Disney World; the availability of in-room treatments at the Disney Resorts; spas onboard the Disney Magic and Disney Wonder; and even cabana massages on Disney’s beautiful private island, Castaway Cay. 

It is a highlight of many Disney park and cruise vacations, and we get such glowing reports from guests about their spa experiences that I wanted to be able share my own spa stories.  Alas, I was the last spa holdout on the planet.  

Now, the whole thing sounds so wonderful in theory: gentle, restorative massages; brisk, citrusy exfoliations; warm, petal-strewn baths; relaxed, limp-noodle results.  Say all you want, however, about professional draping, and professionals pursuing their professions with professional professionalism; the bottom line:  you’re in a room naked being rubbed by a complete stranger.  Relaxing; are you crazy?  I would leave with so much tension in my neck and shoulders, I wouldn’t be able to move my head for a month.    

Still, I did want to familiarize myself with the spa, so I decided to try a manicure – how traumatic could that be?  I made appointments at the Grand Floridian Spa and went with a friend.  We were ushered into a quiet and peaceful area with subdued lighting and shown through the treatment rooms, the lounge and locker areas, and the whirlpool room.  The atmosphere was hushed and serene and even a simple manicure was made special with a pampering hand and arm massage.  

I had a chance to chat with a number of different patrons in the pleasant lounge where cool drinks and herbal teas are available.  It turns out that almost everyone was fairly intimidated by the idea of their first spa treatment.  Each person had a story, but all agreed that the Disney cast members go out of their way to make the experience as comfortable as possible.  If you’re not thrilled with the idea of fully undressing, you can dip your toe in the spa waters by choosing a type of treatment, such as a facial or reflexology massage, that doesn’t require it.  Even full-body massages can be accomplished while wearing a swimsuit, although a better treatment can be provided if you are willing to disrobe.  Keep in mind that you will be left alone to undress and untreated areas are fully covered by a drape at all times. Also, you can indicate your preference for a male or female massage therapist.  Generally speaking, swim suits and/or robes are worn in most other areas such as the whirlpool.  Expect to tip about 20% and don’t be surprised at the sales pitch for the spa products.  

While I did find this all very interesting, and even somewhat reassuring, I still haven’t made the leap.  Meanwhile, current spa aficionados looking for a truly luxurious and inclusive spa vacation are invited to consider our Grand Indulgence itinerary.

For now, if you see a stiff, obviously unmassaged person (with nicely-manicured nails) walking around Walt Disney World – that would be me!!