Alexandria, VA - I purchased a Groupon for a float and decided a Friday night was a great time to check it out. I noted in other reviews that it's mandatory to arrive 30 minutes early for first float orientation. This fact wasn't emphasized when I called to make my appointment so I can see why there might be some confusion. Perhaps setting first appointments for 1.5 hours might make this more clear. Upon entering I was greeted by a friendly staff person who requested I put on plastic slippers and leave my shoes begin. This was a nice touch. Later I noted the slippers are soaked in a cleaning solution. I appreciate this as the slippers can then be reused. Next the staff person gave me a quick tour and showed me to the video room. The video was one part advertisement, one part orientation and one part sales pitch to buy a franchise. This last bit seemed a little much given I hadn't tried the float yet but i understand this is business. I returned to the lounge to wait my turn. A previous floater had just come out and the staff asked how things had gone. Apparently the shower didn't function well but the float was good. My turn came up and I was escorted back. I noted there were multiple float pod rooms. I was given a quick orientation to the room. The staff person opened the pod and said "This is where the magic happens!" All I can say here is there must be a generational difference in this phrases meaning. The staff person left and I turned on the shower. Ice cold water streamed out. I fiddled with the tap trying to get some warmth. Eventually managed some lukewarm water after a great amount of time. Then I couldn't shut the tap off!! My float time was beginning as I heard the narrator began her instructions. Finally got the shower down to a trickle and stepped in. The water here was warm clean and comfortable. It took my shower jangled nerves a while to calm down but when I did I had an excellent float experience. The end of the float was signaled by a loud door chime tone. The shower situation was no better. This time it was scalding hot water. Really took me right out of relaxation mode pretty quickly. I left the room for some oxygen bar time. The staff person set me up quickly and asked how the soak was. I noted all the shower issues. She acknowledged them and said she could add a note to my file so I would be in a different room Next time. This part mystified me. Why not give new customers the best experience this time? Additionally she noted that the prior customer had said the same thing about the shower. Apparently we had both been in the same room. There were other rooms so I don't understand why subject customers to a non working shower. Overall the float was great, staff was kind, the place was clean, but I wouldn't return based on the shower issues. read more