What would you like in the backyard that is great for entertaining, would be a focal point and can be enjoyed by the whole family? Hot tubs could be what you are looking for. Immersing in hot or warm water goes back centuries to Greek, Japanese and Roman texts. Hydrotherapy has said to aid in pain and stress relief. They also offer fun at the same time. Water is buoyant and resists gravity. It is known to aid in sleeping and easy exercises done in the warm water assist with muscle and joint pain. The jets massage the body and just feel good. If you haven't experience that good feeling when you are relaxing in the warm water of a hot tub and the jets are bubbling or swimming in the pool with the cool water lapping around you then you are really missing something in life. You can actually assist your heart to beat more efficiently while you sit back in the water.

A hot tub gazebo and beautiful landscaping can create a private oasis in your backyard. Hot tubs are an easy way to achieve the "get away from it all" feeling at home. Would you like to create a total hot tub experience? Along with the private setting, you can include surround sound and play your favorite music. How about special lighting that changes for atmosphere? If you don't want to miss the football game, some tubs come equipped with pop up televisions and cup holders or ice buckets. You can customize your soak and have a foot well just for those aching feet, or waterfalls and misters installed. Add scent with aromatherapy options for a lovely scent wafting over your experience. Sounds good doesn't it? Who doesn't think of a party when you hear the word "hot tub"? It is a very social type of gathering but can be extremely romantic for two at the same time. Lean back and look up at the stars with the person you love while listening to the surround sound music.

There are sizes and colors that are available to suit every budget. Before you buy, think about how you are going to use it. Is it just for two or do you want to entertain? Don't be afraid to sit in one in the showroom. You want to get something that is comfortable for your back. In order to enjoy the tub, make sure you talk to your dealer about the accessories you will need and the cleaning procedures. You may want a hot tub cover to keep the outside debris from getting in. There are many cover lifts on the market if you find they are too unwieldy for you. Look for a highly insulated model as it will save on energy costs. Hot tubs are smart because you can program them to automatically heat up and turn on or off without having to move a muscle. Check with the manufacturer if the model you want can be accessed via the internet. This is especially nice if you are gone and you live in a winter climate. A lot of damage can be done if the temperature gets too cold and the tub freezes. If you have one in a vacation home that you only visit once a week it would be nice to remotely check in on it. Ask if you can have the capability for a remote control. Some settings can be confusing so look for a system that makes sense to you and doesn't look like an airplane cockpit. You deserve the benefits of owning a hot tub, so go step out into the water, it's just right.

Beverly Hlavka is a successful freelance writer offering guidance and suggestions for consumers buying hot tubs, whirlpools, Jacuzzis, saunas, pool supplies and more. Her many articles can be seen at http://www.sauna-4u.com. She also gives information and tips on http://www.sauna-4u.com/hot_tubs.htm to help you save money and make informed buying decisions.