It may seem to be relatively straight forward to talk about accountability and investment in spas or wellness centers. Reality however proves otherwise. Interestingly, the industry has not yet accepted a definition for spa, or for wellness centers (or different types of spas). According to the International SPA Association “Spas are places devoted to overall well-being through a variety of professional services that encourage the renewal of mind, body and spirit.” Although ISPA's relevant terminologies are often referred to, these are not global definitions. Still, at least there are some descriptions available for spas. Wellness centers represent an even less clear arena. READ MORE

Twenty years ago, the U.S. spa industry was just beginning to blossom. There were approximately 3,000 spa locations then, compared to nearly 44,000-plus locations today. Day spas were popping up on every corner, driven largely by the full-service salon. Hotel and resort spas were few and far between, and destination spas such as the Golden Door and Canyon Ranch were luxurious getaways for the lucky few. Spas were a luxury, only reserved for the wealthy or affluent adult. Now, I have seen my youngest spa patron at the ripe age of 4 years old. READ MORE

How would you like your guests to be positively addicted to staying at your hotel? That's what can happen if you surround them with the fragrance of pure, natural essential oils which affect the fastest, most direct sense into the brain - the sense of smell. Up-market retailers have known this forever. When I was publicity and feature events director of Bloomingdales, I always knew what they were promoting by the fragrance that permeated the main floor all the way down to the subway entrance. Sandalwood would be the Indian promotion, Chanel perfumes, unmistakably Paris. Aromatherapy was, and I guess still is, Bloomie's secret weapon. It can easily be yours. READ MORE

Global Wellness Day (GWD) is an international, noncommercial initiative aimed at improving well-being across the world. Today, there are 3,000 locations in 100 countries organizing GWD celebrations worldwide. This article is part 2 of a 2-part series. Part-1 featured Belgin Aksoy, Founder of GWD. As a new Ambassador to Global Wellness Day, I was motivated to write a series about GWD for several reasons. 1) To create awareness and excitement about wellness as a lifestyle and as a business strategy 2) To promote wellness to the hotel industry 3) To share insights from hospitality professionals that have direct involvement with Global Wellness Day in order to encourage greater participation 4) To provide several first-hand accounts about GWD that could be helpful in spurring support from other sectors. READ MORE

In an era of where the words personal, experiential, adventure, extreme and destination are often heard - at least among those of us in the business of hotels - it is clear consumers are seeking uniqueness in their travels, whether they are for business or pleasure. Hoteliers are wisely taking this to heart and responding to these demands. One way owners and operators are strategically meeting guests' needs is by tapping into and elevating the experience of a once luxury-only amenity: the spa. The focus makes logical sense. READ MORE