Like people, hot tubs come in all shapes and sizes, but the real differentiation is in the details. Hot tub manufacturers realize this and are continually striving to create the same diversity in their products. Because there is a wealth of amenities available that can complement you and your lifestyle, familiarizing yourself with the options in light of your personality may help narrow down your list of hot tub must-haves.

You prefer the motto Live to work over Work to live, but as much as you thrive on your on-the-go attitude, you still need some down time every once in awhile and a massage to ease overstressed muscles.

Small hot tub units with a few seats that provide total body hydrotherapy are ideal if you are looking a quick fix. Consider models that offer a captain’s chair or a lounge, as both of these seating types will give muscles the attention they deserve. Soft headrests are available on many models, as are streaming neck jets, which are sure to ease the tension of a busy day.

If you are a true workaholic, perhaps the most attractive options include technological offerings that enable you to work from within your spa. From telephone to Internet access to a floating mouse for your computer, manufacturers have thought of everything. In fact, some systems are advanced enough to allow remote access to your spa controls via the Internet or your cell phone. If time is of the essence, now you can step out of your car and into your warm, bubbling spa without wasting a minute—except to change into your swimsuit!

You know who you are—you look for any excuse to throw a party, because your parties are the best in town. While creating the perfect atmosphere for family and friends is important, you also want a hot tub that is as functional as it is attractive. Here is what to look for:

When it comes to entertaining, you definitely want enough room to accommodate your guests. A large hot tub with plenty of seating areas is key. Bench seating that can welcome several people is a great way to save space. Many models also feature various therapy seats, complete with cup and bottle holders, which face each other for easy conversation. An increasing number of models are also featuring pop-up flat screen TVs and DVD players, which are sure crowd-pleasers.

A party is not a party without tunes, and luckily, hot tub stereo systems have evolved with the times. In addition to multi-disc CD players with waterproof, rotating pop-up speakers, some companies even offer special surround sound systems that eliminate the need for external speakers entirely and reduce the noise level outside of the spa.

Lastly, consider external add-ons that will not only dress up your spa but also increase its functionality. Self-standing privacy panels, sidemounted spa bars and modular accessories, including step/planter combinations, barstools and benches, are just a few ways to guarantee that your guests will want to come back for future soaks.

Fit and fabulous—there is always one in the group. If you love to soak, but do not want to take time away from your workout regimen, think about combining the two activities.

Look for a model with a larger footwell, greater water depths and a non-skid surface for better traction and safer footing. A few manufacturers offer built-in or optional exercise equipment, including a rowing system, resistance bands and other tools to help users build strength, condition the body and improve range of motion.

The buoyancy and warmth of the water is also great for rehabilitation work after an injury or accident and provides the ideal environment for arthritis sufferers. Strategically placed grab bars, an accessible control panel, floating remotes and ergonomic knobs facilitate the entire hot tub experience, while adjustable hydrotherapy jets can target areas that typically experience pain.

The Dreamer

Your head is in the clouds, and you like it there.You want a relaxing sensory experience reminiscent of those old commercials that beckoned, Take Me Away!

For starters, find a company that prides itself on ergonomic designs. Proper seating and carefully placed, adjustable jets will ensure that every inch of your body is resting comfortably and receiving the best massage possible. You also want to pay attention to the types of jets available. For the ultimate pampering, make sure that you have enough jet variety - from gentle to soothing to vigorous. Rather than get wrapped up in technical names, focus on the way the water moves and feels, instead.Water features offer both visual and auditory appeal, and hot tub manufacturers continue to expand the styles available; however, nothing sets the mood quite like lighting. Many manufacturers offer optional fiber-optic packages in varying colors, or LEDs, known for their longevity and reliability, that can illuminate the spa, water features and the spa’s perimeter.

Appealing to your sense of smell through aromatherapy is another relaxation technique that is sure to set your worries sailing to a faraway place.Aromas produced by these built-in air units run the gamut, ranging from calming to energizing.

What more could a dreamer possibly want? How about a spa that requires minimal care? Spa shells in textured finishes, like faux granite, make water marks easier to hide than ever, while synthetic cabinetry eliminates skirting maintenance, short of an occasional hose-off.The wide variety of colors available for both the shell and the cabinet virtually ensures that you can create a cohesive look, and even match your hot tub to your home’s exterior if you wish.

Let Personal Preferences Prevail

So, what if you do not fit into any of these hot tub personalities? Not to worry.The features listed under each category can be mixed and matched to accommodate your individual preferences. No one fits into a mold—or wants to—but, thankfully, there really is something for everyone.