the Cost of a Mani/Pedi Combo

I got a manicure and a pedicure at a nail shop in Alameda that had been recommended to me. They had spa chairs in which you could soak your feet (and I saw them scrub them out before it was my turn!), then they used a callus remover, exfoliated my feet, have me a foot and leg massage, let me soak my hands, gave me a hand and arm massage, and shaped and painted my nails.

At this place, a pedicure is $18, and a pedicure plus manicure is $25 (before tip). I'm not sure how much a manicure is alone. In addition, they will paint nice flowers on your big toenails for an additional $5.

This was the best pedicure and manicure I have received in quite some time. The massages were excellent, and the exfoliation felt really good. They got rid of my hangnails, trimmed up my cuticles, cut and filed my nails, and applied lotion and cuticle oil. My nails looked really good (and still do, a week after the fact). The whole experience was extremely relaxing.

Cleanliness can be an issue at nail salons. Make sure you are satisfied with the sterilization of the tools used and the cleanliness of whatever they soak your feet and hands in. If you don't see them clean these things, feel free to ask about it.

Ask about any extra services, such as exfoliation, nail designs, etc. Find out if these things cost extra or if they are included in the regular price. Also, don't forget to tip the manicurists.