The Five Towel ratings are based on a spa’s ambience, decor, level of service, functionality of the facility (all systems are working), and quality of the treatments. When rating a spa, I try to be very honest about what I experienced. For example, were any of the wet room amenities not working, perhaps a steam room or deluge waterfall shower? This might warrant only Four Towels if everything else was of high quality. Was the spa host gracious and generous with her time on the tour of the facility upon my arrival? Did I feel pampered when leaving? If so, those experiences contribute to a Five Towel rating for sure.

The Martini or Yogini rating is pretty simple. Does the spa have amenities and an ambience that lends itself to a loud party with drinking, giggling and occasional shouts and silliness? If so, that is definitely a Martini spa. Examples of Martini Spas in town are the Qua Baths and Spa at Caesars Palace and Costa Del Sur at South Point Hotel, Casino and Spa.

At a Yogini spa, the ambience is more low key, and the facility itself is more intimate and quiet. Two good examples of Yogini spas are Spa Mio at The M, and The Spa at Green Valley Ranch Resort Spa & Casino.

Now, no spa is totally a Martini or a Yogini. There are certainly celebrations at Yogini spas, and rejuvenating, serene moments—and services—available at Martini spas. This rating was adopted to give you a quick peek into a spa’s personality when choosing a spa to visit.

One spa that is truly a Martini/Yogini hybrid is Spa Aquae at JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort on Rampart. It has a huge wet space and a dedicated outdoor pool for use by both male and female guests alike. This is a place where the bachelors could join the bachelorette party for spa treatments followed by drinks and food outside. And yet, the surroundings are peaceful, the treatments have been nothing but top notch, and I’ve left feeling not only pampered but serene. (Look for a full review in the coming weeks.)

Please see A Commitment to Ethics for information on the personal rules I follow when doing a spa review.