Your First Spa Visit: What to Expect

A first visit to a spa can feel a little uncertain: what to wear, how much to undress, whether to talk, whether to tip. The short version is simple. You book a time, arrive a few minutes early, tell the therapist what you need, and the rest is taken care of. Here is what a first visit to Elvara Spa in Abu Dhabi looks like, step by step.

Choosing a treatment

If you have never had a professional massage, choose a Swedish massage. It is medium pressure, easy to adjust and covers the whole body. First-time guests get 15 extra minutes free on a 60 minute Swedish massage. Our own Elvara Signature Massage is a good alternative if you want a little more variety.

Avoid booking a firm deep tissue massage as your very first session unless you already know you like strong pressure. For a full overview, see our guide to types of massage, and every option is on the massage menu.

For a first visit, 60 minutes is enough. Our guide to 60, 90 or 120 minutes explains when a longer session makes sense.

How to book

Message us on WhatsApp at +971 55 573 19 59 with the treatment, the length and the time you would like. We confirm your booking before you come. You can ask for a therapist by name, or describe the pressure and style you like and let us match you. Our therapists come from Russia, Belarus, Ukraine, Georgia and Turkey, so if you prefer a particular language, mention it. Many guests who look for this style read our page on Russian massage first.

Prices are on the price page, so you know the cost before you arrive.

What to wear and what we provide

Wear anything comfortable. You do not need to bring anything: disposable underwear and towels are provided. You undress to your comfort level in a private room, and you stay covered with a towel throughout the massage. Only the area being worked on is uncovered.

It is a good idea to leave jewellery at home or remove it before the session, and to tie long hair back if you do not want oil in it.

When to arrive

Arrive five to ten minutes before your booking. That gives you time to settle, tell the therapist about any areas to focus on or avoid, and change without rushing. Arriving late usually means a shorter massage, because the next guest is booked after you. If you are running late or need to change your time, message us on WhatsApp as early as you can.

Elvara is on the ground floor of Royal M Hotel by Gewan in Al Bateen, with parking at the hotel. You do not need to be a hotel guest. More on our hotel spa page.

What to tell the therapist

Before the massage starts, the therapist asks a few questions. Mention:

• any areas that hurt or feel stiff;
• areas you would like to avoid;
• the pressure you prefer, lighter or firmer;
• injuries, recent surgery, pregnancy, skin conditions or blood thinners;
• allergies, especially to oils or scents.

This takes a minute and makes a real difference to the session.

During the massage

You can talk or stay quiet, whichever you prefer. Most people stay quiet and many fall asleep, which is completely normal. If the pressure is too strong or too light, say so at any point. If you feel cold, ask for an extra towel. If anything feels uncomfortable, say so and the therapist will adjust or stop.

Privacy matters. Every session is one to one in a private room, and the therapist steps out while you undress and dress.

After the massage

Take a moment before getting up, especially after a long or very relaxing session. Drink some water. Many people feel loose and a little sleepy, so give yourself a few minutes before driving. After a firmer massage, mild muscle soreness the next day is normal and fades within a day or two.

Tipping

Tipping is not required in the UAE and is entirely up to you. If you enjoyed the session and want to leave something for your therapist, it is appreciated, but there is no expectation.

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