Massages are the ubiquitous treatment at spas and come in a variety of types: deep-tissue, Shiatsu, and Swedish to name a few. If you want a soft touch, deep-tissue is not for you! Always find out if the spa's masseuses or therapists are licensed, and whether your preferred type of massage is offered. Most full-body treatments require that you be naked; if this bothers you, ask if you can wear a swimsuit. If this is your first time, start simple with a classic Swedish massage or nurturing aromatherapy massage using organic oils, before graduating to more expensive and invigorating options. You can expect to pay from $60 for a 30-minute session, upwards of $100 for a one-hour session.

Should the spa hang not be your thing, but you nevertheless find yourself in need of some form of relaxation, small airport spas offer quickie treatments to relieve the stresses of airline travel. They provide the perfect cure for knotted shoulders and hypertension. Treatments include in-chair massages as short as 15 minutes, while the more salubrious spas (usually found in airline's executive lounges) offer more extensive treatments—appointments are typically not needed. Check out these three spas next time you fly: Backrub Hub, Chicago O'Hare, Terminal 3 (773.601.0630); Massage Bar, Seattle-Tacoma, Concourse C (206.985.7177); Oasis Day Spa, JFK International, New York, Terminal 6 (212.254.7722, www.oasisdayspanyc.com).