After years of wanting a spa, my husband broke down and puchased one for our 15 year anniversary. I had researched all of the companies in our area, and decided on the Outback Santa Fe, made by HydroSpa. It had all of the options we were looking for, at a reasonable price. It comfortably seats 6, with different seat heights, (which are great for our little ones aged 10 and 9,) has a volcano jet, waterfall, two pumps,and a circulation pump, and LED lighting. It also has the microban finish, and the maintaince free skirt, which was a huge selling feature for us.
We have only had it for just over two weeks, but are in the tub usually twice a day! It is wonderful to wake up and enjoy a cup of coffee in the tub, however my favorite time is in the evening with the stars overhead. It is also a fantastic way to get your kids way from the TV and computer and talk to you!!
My husband has made a beautiful pergola over it, and lattice for privacy along the sides. It does look like a peaceful oasis!
A few thoughts... I don't think our waterfall is as powerful as some. Other models we have veiwed have quite a powerful spray across the tub. Ours is just a gentle flow into the tub. As well, I am disapointed with the volcano jet. I imagined it to be some powerful erupting spew of water, but it seems to be less intense than the jets on the seats! I have asked our dealer to take a look and see if this is normal, or perhaps there is a problem. He hasn't arrived yet, but I will keep you posted. The head cushions are very fragile, and one actually broke when the dealer was showing us how to take them off. It was replaced free of charge of course. They snap into position, and my son broke another while leaning on it. We were able to secure it back in position, and it hasn't come loose again! When I purchase my next tub,(because now I know I can't live without one!!) I would definitely wet test it, and would avoid removable head rests.