One of my dreams came true on Monday. Having been the "lone ranger" three years ago when predicting the popularity of spa lifestyle communities, it was heartening to have the privilege of moderating a panel at the American Spa Expo on Spa Residential Living. And it was even sweeter that my husband, Peter, was there. It hadn't been easy selling him on the fact that this was really going to be a trend! (He did catch on sooner than most.)

Panelists included Gary Milner representing Canyon Ranch Living, Rick Hayduck from Cliff Communities, Steve Kass from American Leisure, and Dori Soukup from Pevonia. Each shared experiences and views on this burgeoning phenomenon: communities built around a spa/health/wellness lifestyle.

One of the most interesting comments came from Gary Milner, who disclosed that properties at Canyon Ranch Living sell at an almost 50% premium because of the Canyon Ranch life enhancement focus. And Rick shared data that convinced the Cliff Communities - which have primarily been known for golf - to put more resources and emphasis on their wellness-and-lifestyle component. After all, only 10% of consumers are interested in golf, but 75% are interested in health and wellness. So, if golf community real estate is a trillion-dollar industry, the opportunity in spa communities is going to be amazing.

Sigh....very sweet to have this confirmation three years later. And someday my husband and I will likely retire in such a setting. Where we can live at the spa - literally.


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