It’s okay to get back in the water

When word started leaking out last fall that the spa at the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn had started a Good Neighbor program that granted non-guests and non-members access to the pools on Mondays – all day, every Monday – the place became mobbed. The staff remained incredibly cordial and patient, even when visitors became a little huffy that the spa had run out of those big fluffy robes and, some evenings, even the funky black spa sandals.
The indoor and outdoor hot tubs became crowded – it’s a surprise no fisticuffs occurred when people would hog the jets – although if you picked your time of day wisely, you could get in, get a bath, get a towel and get out.
The idea was to introduce locals to the joys of the spa. That goal was definitely achieved.
As the no-fee program became known valley-wide, things got a bit out of hand. Rumor had it that on at least one occasion, a group of young women, who apparently lacked an awareness of proper spa etiquette, called out for pizza to be delivered poolside.
The program ended in December, but by then the staff had taken an informal poll: What would people be willing to pay for access to the spa? Apparently the magic number is $25. That’s what Good Neighbors will have to pay to use the fitness equipment, attend complimentary fitness classes and use the bathing ritual Sunday through Friday. Good Neighbor guests also receive a 10 percent discount on spa treatments (when a spa treatment is scheduled, the $25 entrance fee will be waived). For reservations or to ask questions about the Good Neighbor Program, call 877.289.7354. The Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn and Spa is on Boyes Boulevard near the intersection of Highway 12 in Boyes Hot Springs.