I’d love to spa but all the ones I read about seem to be extremely expensive. Is there an affordable way to the spa experience? Rosemary White, London

Times Online spa expert, Miranda Allard responds: We all think of spas as being a luxury few of us can afford. In truth there are spas and treatments for all budgets. It depends a little on what our individual perception of a spa is and therefore expectations differ. It is true that the spas we always read about tend to be top end and therefore have huge PR budgets – which is why we keep reading about the same ones!

However there are three easy options for going budget. If the priority is for holistic spa treatments, these can be experienced in small day spas/holistic high street salons. The good ones offer exactly the same treatments with the same products as their luxury competitors but because they do not have fancy facilities the cost is much less. Remember it is the quality of the therapist not the fixtures and fittings which make for a good treatment.

If you are looking for pools, saunas and the whole spa experience then the best way to find fantastic value is to hop on a low- cost airline to Central and Eastern Europe where one can find true spas – not only will you discover an excellent range of treatments and wet facilities but the pools are usually filled with natural thermal spring water which in itself is wonderfully therapeutic. A night at one of these spas with half board and full use of the facilities often costs less than a single treatment in the UK.

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Remember, too, that many spas offer great deals for those who are prepared to go during their less busy periods – not only can the more luxurious ones become affordable but who wants a busy spa anyway?

Check out budget spas in the Times Online Good Spa Guide

Miranda Allard runs SpaContacts.com which features a limited selection of spas invited by her to join

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