You woke up extra early to beat the traffic to the airport. After standing in line to check in your bags and waiting what seems like hours to pass through security, you finally get to your gate, only to find out that your flight has been delayed two hours. It is no wonder that today’s skies are both physically and mentally exhausting.
But there is hope; airports throughout the U.S. and the world have welcomed spas into their terminals that allow for maximum travel relaxation. These airport spas have treatments geared to accommodate a traveler’s tight schedule with shorter treatments and walk-in availability. Now, instead of tediously sitting at your gate waiting out the layover, you can enjoy the comfort of a massage chair while being pampered.
As security lines get longer and delays become more frequent, the option to get your nails done or relax with a massage is ever more appealing.
As you travel to new airports, you may start to recognize the frequency of these airport spas, the reason being a demand. A traveler can release stress, muscle tightness and other uncomfortable feelings caused by traveling. Kristen Cabanban, a spokeswoman for the O’Hare International Airport said airports are trying to accommodate travelers.
“With the delays that occur and the extra security, people have time to spend,” she said. “We might as well make it enjoyable.”
As a result, spas around the country are finding immense success.
“We opened the doors and we were mobbed by people waiting for connecting flights,” said Moreton Binn, CEO of XpresSpa. “They already have their boarding passes. Their luggage is checked. They’re past security. By then, they have two hours before their flight. The passengers love it.”
Here is a guide to spas that are popping up in an airport near you:
Unique Factor: An array of services based on your available time, while ensuring you leave looking your professional best.
Number of Locations: 6
Treatments: manicures, pedicures, nail sets, waxing, chair massages
Treatment Length: all services range from 10 to 45 minutes
Cost: varies by location
Hours of Operation: 6:30 a.m. – 9 p.m., Monday through Sunday
Unique Factor: Like no nail salon you have ever imagined, butter LONDON is famous for two things: their rapidly growing chain of airport nail salons and their non-toxic product line.
Number of Locations: one
Treatments: manicure and pedicures
Treatment Length: 15 to 40 minutes
Cost: $20 – $40
Hours of Operation: 7 a.m.- 9 p.m.
For more information about butter LONDON view our feature article.
Unique Factor:“Travel without the stress.” Travelers with delayed flights now have a reason to be happy instead of agitated; a legitimate excuse to treat themselves to a relaxing massage.
Number of Locations: 2
Treatments: hair cuts, facials, manicures, pedicures, waxing, chair massages
Treatment Length: 10 minutes to one hour
Cost: $10 to $90
Hours of Operation: 7 a.m. – 9 p.m., Monday through Sunday
Unique Factor: The idea of providing a permanent site for quick, relaxing tune-ups flamed the fire of Massage Bar, Inc.
Number of Locations: 8
Treatments: back and foot massages
Treatment Lengths: 10 to 30 min.
Hours of Operation: 8 a.m. – 9 p.m., Monday through Sunday
Unique Factor: “Premium Class” large scale, nationally structured Spa, exclusively operating at airports. A first class, upscale 5th Avenue Spa concept transformed into a successful airport spa wonderland.
Number of Locations: 54
Treatments: sinus and stress relief – head massage, foot and leg massage, back and shoulder massage, full body massage, manicures, pedicures, facials and waxing
Treatment length: 10 to 30 minutes
Hours of Operation: 7 a.m. – 11 p.m., Monday through Sunday
So the next time you find yourself bored and waiting for takeoff, mosey on over and check out the local airport spa and treat yourself to a mani, pedi or back and neck massage. Go on you deserve it, happy travels.
