HOTEL BUSINESS REVIEW

July FOCUS: Hotel Spa

 
July, 2023

Hotel Spa: Reconnecting With Nature


Hotel spas have never been so popular. The global wellness market is estimated to be in excess of $1.5 trillion with an annual growth rate of 5 to 10 percent. Consequently, spas are continually developing new programs, products, tools, and environments to meet the needs of guests who are seeking total body health and wellness. One trend that spas are embracing is a multiplicity of ways to reconnect with nature. Spas are moving beyond the “garden” model and going deeper into the countryside and forest, providing immersion in a wilder natural setting. Wild swimming, forest bathing, foraging, outdoor massage, and hiking trails are concepts that are being designed into the spa journey. Some hotels have built individual cabins deep in the forest for sauna, bathing and massage treatments, and others are offering bedroom suites which are located in cabins or tree houses away from the main hotel. The July issue of the Hotel Business Review will report on these and other developments, and how some hotel spas are integrating them into their operations.


This month's feature articles...

Mia A. Mackman

Mia Mackman is an award-winning wellness-hospitality visionary. She is the owner and principal of MackmanES Consulting, a comprehensive spa-wellness-hospitality prevision consultancy. This article examines the economic and technological impact we can expect in the coming years while balancing risk, maladaptive systems, and radical market movements. This article shares general and useful thoughts to assist those looking ahead and seeking to navigate the next wave of potent change in the hotel and resort spa market. READ MORE

Suja Chaulagain

With a wellness goal in mind, growing number of tourists are seeking refuge from the demands of modern life in the natural environment. By recognizing the inherent health and wellness related value of reconnecting people with nature, the hotel and spa industry can derive significant benefits from the integration of natural elements and nature-based activities into their wellness and spa offerings. READ MORE

Donny Pereira

Graton Resort & Casino, located in iconic Sonoma County, is a commanding presence among the rolling hills of Northern California's wine country. Owned and operated by the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, the resort features an award-winning Spa and Salon with 10,000 square feet of high-quality treatments and services. Read about the resort, spa and its unique connection to surrounding nature, plus wine-tasting options. READ MORE

Sneha Thuppul

Personalizing guest experiences in 2023 means paying attention and acting upon individual guest preferences, histories, and specific wellness goals to ensure the property can support them. According to the Global Wellness Institute, the global wellness economy stands at more than $4 trillion. Resorts need to be aware of current trends and invest in technology solutions that help them offer guests a wider variety of activities, experiences, and food and beverage that support wellness goals and create champions of the property's brand. READ MORE

Mary Gendron

Encouraging guests to engage with a hotel's outdoor environment promotes wellbeing and is good for business. Orienting guests to interesting places to walk or hike helps the guest bond with a location and want to return again. One Northern Italian retreat offers forest bathing with a knowledgeable guide who helps make lasting positive memories. It may be inspiring for others. READ MORE

Simon  Saunders

Following a surge in outdoor pursuits during the Covid-19 pandemic, how can hospitality propagate and perpetuate the newfound interest of hotel guests in nature and what benefits does this bring to wellness hotels? Simon Saunders, VP of Strategic Health & Wellness for RLA Global explores some of the leading trends of wellness in the great outdoors. READ MORE

Cindy Staley

Overall wellness has had an influence on spas for many years, and there's been a recent rise in the tie-in of natural, organic living into luxurious spa offerings. Natural products are not only environmentally sustainable, but they also host a plethora of benefits for health-conscious consumers. READ MORE

Michael Koethner

Looking into the future of the Wellness & Spa Industry (industry because it is growing in numbers) it can no longer be ignored that the active participants, in very close collaboration with their guests, have now an obligation to reflect on and evaluate what has happened to humanity in the past four years. It should now be very clear and obvious for everyone that any given situation and/or event can no longer be isolated from the sum of everything. READ MORE

Toby Manulak

As the emphasis on mental health, wellbeing, and self-care increases post-pandemic, hotels are looking to expand their luxurious spa facilities to serve sophisticated guests seeking unforgettable experiences. Senior Vice President of Moss Construction, Toby Manulak, explores architectural, interior design, and construction trends prevalent in the hospitality industry as they relate to incorporating nature, adopting sustainable practices, and maintaining a "wow" factor. READ MORE

Jackie Roby

Hotels have the ability to enhance a traveler's well-being in simple or grandiose ways. One trend the Global Wellness Institute uncovered is multi-sensory experiences, proven to support physical, mental, and emotional well-being and create lasting behavioral change. From emotional showers to equine therapy, the options are plentiful. Let's explore ways to bring these to the spa, activities, and the guest room. READ MORE

Michael Lahm

The rise in wellness travel has ushered in heightened expectations for more profound and well-rounded hotel spa experiences. Finding innovative ways to integrate nature into hotel spas can help evolve the spa experience from pure relaxation to an immersive experience that renews the mind-body connection and delivers a sense of restoration, replenishment, and joy. READ MORE

Trent  Munday

Hotels are recognizing the need for guests to reconnect with nature and find inner harmony. They understand that incorporating nature-inspired spa facilities, treatments and wellness programs to provide a rejuvenating experience is something their guests want. How can hotels can help guests reconnect to nature by taking a holistic approach to all things wellness? Let's explore. READ MORE

David Wiborg

Hotel spa design is witnessing several exciting trends that reflect the evolving demands of consumers seeking a post-pandemic emphasis on health and wellness. The integration of nature, technology, wellness-focused elements, and sustainability are shaping the future. As the pursuit of well-being and self-care continues to gain prominence, hotels incorporating these trends will offer guests a harmonious and rejuvenating experience. READ MORE

Ako Ardalan

As the world emerges from the pandemic, the hospitality industry is prioritising guests' wellness and relaxation. Biophilic design, which incorporates natural elements into built environments, is a popular approach for hotels seeking to offer immersive experiences that promotes wellbeing. This article provides hoteliers with valuable design insights to create an immersive experience that promotes relaxation and rejuvenation for their guests. READ MORE

Andrew Barnard

Spas, in today's landscape, have the means to expedite the healing process through ecotherapy. As the population becomes more immersed in the digital world in their everyday lives, the demand for ecotherapy – a reconnection with nature – increases, especially with vacation experiences. Spas serve as the ultimate platform to tap in on this trend integrating personal and planetary well-being. READ MORE

Wei Wei

As the trend of "disconnecting to reconnect" grows, hotel spas are leveraging natural elements (e.g. eco-friendly materials, plant-based spa treatments, forest bathing, hiking trails, remote destinations) to provide a perfect escape from technological dependence and stresses. This trend offers a unique and immersive experience that cannot be replicated in a traditional spa setting. Hotel spas that embrace this trend can differentiate themselves, attract wellness-focused guests, and contribute to a more sustainable future. READ MORE

Vicky Nash

Wellness-seekers searching for authentic experiences immersed in natural settings are soaking in geothermal mineral pools in record numbers. The hot springs industry is currently experiencing a tremendous resurgence. Many properties are under new ownership with large-scale redevelopment projects underway. Not only is thermal bathing beneficial to overall health and wellbeing, it is also an ideal opportunity to connect with nature. READ MORE

Adam Mogelonsky

Wellness is an incredibly lucrative profit vehicle for hotels in any category with many different types of amenities and packageable offerings available to fit your brand. The issue is labor, wherein many of these wellness activations require lots of staffing to oversee. However, get a grip on your tech stack and automations will lay the foundation for success. READ MORE

Dennis Ledenkof

The hospitality and spa industry is undergoing a revolution, and at the forefront of this change is the rise of robotics massage technology. With the increasing demand for high-tech spa experiences, robotics is poised to play a significant role in the sector's growth. Even more important, it can solve one of the industry's main pain points - labor shortage. Denis Ledenkof, the founder of Robosculptor, talks about the state and challenges of spa and hospitality and how robotics can help. READ MORE

Kristiyan Yankov

Italy is a must-visit destination for many travelers around the world, but especially for Americans. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and culture that celebrates food and wine, it's easy to understand why Italy appeals to Americans. But with so many incredible cities throughout Italy, which ones do Americans want to visit the most? In this article, we explore the top Italian cities Americans want to fly to. READ MORE

Ashley Labrosse

There is optimism in the luxury hotel market, but a growing conviction that increased use of technology will be vital if the industry is to overcome its current challenges. Ashley Labrosse highlights the key findings from independent global research by Communications Specialist Ltd among senior executives at luxury hotel chains across Asia, Africa, Europe, the US and South America. READ MORE

Allison Owen

With travel rates rising above pre-pandemic levels, hoteliers are focusing on finding new and better ways to deliver quality guest experiences with trusted and efficient communication tactics. The guest-centric approach of using branded calling is enhancing the guest experience, as well as the brand reputation and growing revenue. READ MORE

Teach Mayer

Engaging with the elements and immersing oneself in nature is a centuries-long tradition for enhanced health benefits. Today, spas are embracing the growing trend of nurturing with nature. Teach Mayer, General Manager of Dawn Ranch, the newly refreshed wellness retreat in Guerneville, Calif., discusses the topic and how they enlist Mother Nature to stimulate relaxation and rejuvenation. READ MORE

Danielle Dudai

An appeals court decision identified one of the most important issues about hotels accused in human trafficking lawsuits. As a result, the actions of hotel employees will be a significant factor in the determination of such a claim, and proper training (including continued training) is of the utmost importance. READ MORE

Saroj Barthwal

This year, Saroj Barthwal was appointed as the new Resort Spa Manager at The Palms and The Shore Club. Born and raised in India, she is bringing fresh insights and expertise, in addition to nearly 15 years of skilled spa experience, to this position. What's next for the spas in general will be the concept of intentional-sustainability and infusion of cultural elements. READ MORE

Robert O'Halloran

Trends indicate spa and wellness efforts at hotels and resorts will continue to evolve and grow. Given the popularity and potential profitability of spa and wellness as a hotel feature and amenity, having spa and wellness options at your hotel needs to be considered and evaluated. Lodging properties that offer spa and wellness options that are unique and differentiated from the competition are poised for success. This article will discuss spa and wellness options, both current and future, and the addition of natural settings (environment) as part of the products packages. READ MORE

Coming up in March 1970...