Susie's Spa Blog

The Economic Climate Rains on the Spa Industry Too

noreply@blogger.com (Susie Ellis) — Wed, 25 Jun 2008 21:23:00 +0000

The Economic Climate Rains on the Spa Industry Too
By Susie Ellis, the SpaFinder Insider

My twin sister, Katrine, gave me a verbal rap-on-the-knuckles the other day (sisters are good for such things.) I probably deserved it.

Since she is on my blog list that automatically receives an email with my posts, she will often email me with some, often encouraging, remarks. Not this time. She told me that after reading the blog about my trip to the Bahamas and the following post about our record Father’s Day gift certificate sales, it was obvious that I was not being sensitive to what most people are going through right now. The reality is that things are tough. The economy is suffering, gas prices continue to skyrocket, the dollar is tanking and people are losing their homes. Going on, as I did, about a fancy vacation was inconsiderate and insensitive. She makes a good point.

My apologies. I do have a tendency to see the glass half full rather than half empty, however always wearing my rose-colored glasses isn’t living in reality nor always appreciated by others. So I thought I would use this blog post to address some of what I am seeing out there which is not such great news for the spa industry and how we, as a company and I as a person, are trying to help.

As the economy has gone south, the spa industry has been surprisingly resilient - however not invincible. While we may not feel the impact as quickly as other industries, most spas are feeling an impact now. What helps the spa industry stay buoyant a bit longer than most is probably the combination of several things:

A portion of our consumer market is affluent and they are generally the last to feel the financial pinch.
We are related to the beauty industry with its “lipstick is recession-proof” phenomenon: When things get bad, women still buy lipstick (there was a segment on the Today Show this morning about people continuing to buy candy and small make-up items during hard economic times)
Increased stress makes reducing it and staying healthy more important than ever
Experiences trump material “things” – especially in a poor economic climates

When things get bad enough – and many people would say that those times are upon us – the spa industry is certainly affected. High net worth individuals begin to cut back, lipstick buyers go to the drug store instead of a spa and people experiment with more “at home spa” treatments. We are seeing some people cancel their summer vacation plans, while others are deciding to stay closer to home, and many regular spa-goers are stretching the time between spa visits.

Here at our SpaFinder office, we are continually discussing ways to help both consumers and spas during these more challenging times. One thing we have done is lowered the minimum amount needed to purchase a Spa and Salon Wish Gift Certificate. Rather than a $50 minimum, people can now buy a gift certificate for as little as $25. This helps people (and spas) in several ways. It makes it possible for people to gift a spa treat to someone for a smaller amount of money and the spa gets a new customer for a very minimal marketing fee.

We have also begun an in-house project we are calling “Operation Deal-Maker.” It is a targeted effort to help spas communicate their discounts and added-value specials. We know that everyone is looking for hot deals these days. In fact, that is one of the most popular parts of our website. We are doing everything we can to encourage spas to offer more enticing deals for customers. That means more savings, lower prices, more goodies.

Milana Knowles, our VP for day and medical spas, is constantly writing “tips” for spas in her regular newsletters to spas, while I address “tips” for consumers. Most recently these tips have been about how to save money. Milana’s focus at her day spa retreat this fall at Red Mountain Spa will be about managing employee compensation for greater benefit.

Our SpaBooker system has added revenue management tools to help both the spa and the customer take advantage of supply & demand variations.

We are also taking advantage of these times to make some progress on the sustainability and green initiatives front. We will be adding a section to our website where consumers will be able to see what kind of green policies a spa embraces in effort to give the consumer more information but also encourage more progress in that area.

Our new online magazine will be translated into five other languages giving spas visibility in countries where stronger currencies are making a trip to the U.S. very attractive.

And finally, the one thing I am doing personally is while trying to be more sensitive, I do want to stay positive. Perhaps it is part of what those of us who have been in the spa industry a long time have learned and embraced. It is in times like this that the principles of mindfulness and balancing body, mind, and spirit are very helpful. These practices allow us to take a more philosophical view of current conditions and keep the long term in mind. While I do not like today’s economic climate, I do realize that every challenge gives us an opportunity to learn new lessons and to reach out to others who may be experiencing even greater challenges.

My sister has certainly taught me a good lesson.

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Wii Shoulder Treatment on Spa Menus to join Blackberry Thumb Massage at Spas?

noreply@blogger.com (Susie Ellis) — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 10:03:00 +0000

Wii Shoulder Treatment on Spa Menus to join Blackberry Thumb Massage at Spas?

by Susie Ellis

I felt really 'out of it.' Sitting at lunch with my niece Christa (17), my brother Rolf (49), his girlfriend Stacey (40), my step-daughter Courtney (30), and her girlfriend, Tana (28ish). They are all talking about the Wii and in particular the Wii Fit and how much they love, love, love it! It's fun, they get a great workout, use it all the time, etc.

Well, this is something new. All of these people - guys, gals, at various ages all LIKING exercise? And the same program? I decided that I needed to find out more - and get 'with it'.

I have been hearing about the Wii for a while but have never experienced it and didn't even know there was a Wii Fit. So I asked my brother (who is visiting from Austin) to buy me a Wii while he was out sightseeing and shopping in New York. I learned long ago that if you are going to be in the Internet business, you really do have to keep up with what is going on. Thus, earlier in the year I bought the Kindle (a wireless reading device), Peter got the I-Phone (phone, I-pod, Internet), and I realize we are a bit late to the Wii.

Apparently Wii's are hard to get - sold out at most places. But they were able to find one at Toys R Us - although there were no Wii Fits anywhere.

My 17-year-old niece installed it on my living room TV at my apartment (in about three minutes) and we got started. Basically there was a six-inch long sensor that she put on top of my TV which is connected to the Wii and another cord which is plugged into the TV. We started with tennis. The person or persons playing, each hold a remote in their hands which simulates a tennis racket. Play begins. Very realistic...and I found out I was as bad at tennis with the Wii as I am on the courts. And my usual problem of hitting the ball too late seems to have transferred. Later we tried bowling, then golf.

Seems like a cross between a video game and sports. And I have to agree, it was amazing. It was fun (social) and I could imagine how you would improve your game and that a fitness version could engage you in exercise. Bottom line is that I am not sure everyone needs to own one...but learning about and experiencing the technology does open your eyes to new possibilities.

Finally, I learned that my niece has 'Wii Shoulder' which apparently is a stress injury from playing the game too much.

And so I wonder...will 'Wii Shoulder Treatment' start appearing on spa menus like 'Blackberry Thumb Massage'?

Alas...I suppose so.

**
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A Father's Day Surprise: Dads & Spas

noreply@blogger.com (Susie Ellis) — Thu, 19 Jun 2008 08:03:00 +0000

A Father's Day Surprise: Dads & Spas
by Susie Ellis

Quite a Father's Day surprise. Yesterday I received an email from Steve Kane, who is a senior vice president at SpaFinder, with some extremely interesting data. Apparently Father’s Day gift card and gift certificate sales this year have increased quite dramatically. That means that most day spas out there, if they did a Father's Day promotion, would have also seen large increases. Some may have even doubled their business from last year!

This is the kind of tidbit which I think deserves a ‘blue light.’ Do you remember years ago (well maybe decades ago) when K-Mart would move a flashing blue light next to some merchandise that was a really hot item? Then they would announce over the intercom 'Blue Light Special,' 'Blue Light Special!' Well, I think the fact that so many people purchased spa gift certificates for Father’s Day this year is a 'Blue Light Special' for the spa industry.

Here is why. It signals to me that the we have hit a tipping point. Malcolm Gladwell describes it this way in his book, The Tipping Point, 'a tipping point is a sociological term which describes the moment of critical mass, the threshold, the boiling point.' Another description, which I like even better, is from Bryan Walsh who wrote in Time magazine, 'tipping points are levels at which the momentum for change becomes unstoppable’.

Think about it. People are buying spa gift certificates for dads. This would have been unheard of even a decade ago. It means that men going to spas has now become a norm rather than an exception. Spas which have attempted for years to attract men to their facilities for therapeutic massage services or grooming experiences, have gotten their message across.

Taking into account the economically turbulent times makes this increase even more significant. It may also indicate that current stressful times have caused people to think about the value of something nurturing and positive for the men in their lives. Rather than buying dads another tie or tool for the garage, people valued giving dad a break.

Here is how I would sum it up:
1. Men going to spas is now mainstream
2. People recognize that in stressful times, men need help de-stressing
3. Experiences are trumping ‘things’ as gifts for men
4. A new generation is thinking Fathers & Spa go together
5. The spa business is somewhat recession-proof (like alcohol and lipsticks)

It may be a funny thing to get excited about….but I consider this an ‘ah ha!’ moment for our industry and just wanted to share it with you.

**
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A Spa Moment of Balance with Hubby

noreply@blogger.com (Susie Ellis) — Tue, 17 Jun 2008 08:29:00 +0000

A Spa Moment of Balance with Hubby...
by Susie Ellis

My husband is a gem. Sometimes I mention him in my blogs - especially when I can poke a bit of fun - but today I feel like telling you why it is so great to live with him and what makes him the best husband I could possibly have. I guess I am inspired by the three-day weekend we just spent together. We both felt it was kind of a magical time. Everything sort of came together. We didn't talk about work (much), we 'flowed' - just sort of went with what was happening and what we felt like doing.

It reminded me of when we fell in love 25 years ago. It was just the two of us this weekend. He took care of making all of the arrangements like flights, hotels, car rental, etc. I had a lot to do with suggesting the plans. Neither of us put any pressure on the other. He watched some of the U.S. Open. I read the newspaper. He got up early and found a Starbucks. I went to work out. We traveled light - carry-ons only. We went to bed early and slept in.

Of course, it didn't hurt that we had some pretty fabulous plans. Massages at the Mandara Spa in the Bahamas, a drink at the One & Only Resort's beautiful beach bar, an overnight at the Brazilian Court in Palm Beach, dinner at their restaurant - Daniel Boulud (fantastic), a couple of hours on a pretty cool boat. We drove around the Palm Beach area reminiscing about what life was like back 13 years ago when I worked at the Mar-a-Lago spa and lived in West Palm for two years. We couldn't even afford massages back then.

Lots has happened since that time - neither of us would have predicted we would be living in New York, working together running a company called SpaFinder. Life sure has a way of surprising us.

As Peter has often said...he is the best 'wife' anyone can have. After all these years together we have figured out that arranging our lives so each of us does what we enjoy the most and are best at doing is the way to go. In our relationship Peter does all the cooking, all the shopping (for food and clothes) and basically takes care of everything in our home. He also does all the decorating.

I know, its hard to believe but he absolutely loves all this domestic stuff. And he is really very good at cooking, shopping and decorating. And I am not good at those things. (Photos of a home I decorated years ago are a good reminder of that.) What do I do? Well, I get to work at a job I love. I have time to read, write, study, think. I have time to do the detail kind of work I do like planning the Global Spa Summit, digging into spa research, tracking trends, etc. I get to handle our philanthropy and maintain most of our family relationships. It's an arrangement that works well for us.

What does all this have to do with the spa lifestyle? Well, we talk so often about balance of body, mind, and spirit and I guess Peter and I had one of those balance experiences this weekend. We know it won't last all that long since daily challenges (and emails) intrude quickly. But it is nice to have a moment of gratitude and joy about a relationship that has gotten sweeter over the years.

**

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Mandara Spa at Atlantis - A True Sanctuary

noreply@blogger.com (Susie Ellis) — Sat, 14 Jun 2008 17:59:00 +0000

Mandara Spa at Atlantis - A True Sanctuary
by Susie Ellis

Peter and I did something this weekend which we were never able to do while living on the West Coast - hop on a short flight to spend the weekend in the Bahamas. It sounds so "East Coast" doesn't it? Actually Peter is on a mission to convince me that getting into boating would be a good idea. I fear he has an uphill battle here, however I didn't mind spending a weekend with him checking things out. Besides, this jaunt would give me a chance to visit two spas: Mandara at Atlantis and the One & Only Spa at the Ocean Club, Bahamas.

So we boarded a 2 1/2 hour flight yesterday morning and flew directly into Nassau. Peter decided we should stay at Atlantis since it is on the water. While ordinarily a resort with 3,800 rooms and lots of kids would not be my first choice for a weekend trip, we were just staying one night so I thought, why not? Besides, here on the East Coast I see so many Atlantis ads, it seemed like a good idea to see what all the fuss was about.

Well...Yes, it is large. Yes, it has lots of kids (although there is one tower which is for adults only - not the one we stayed in.) Yes, the decor is a bit Disneyland-20-years-ago. And it seemed expensive. My bagel and cream cheese this morning was almost $5.00 and Internet usage here in the business center is about $1.00 a minute. The room too was pricey. I must say, however, those families who were here all had broad smiles on their faces and seem to be having quite a bit of fun with their kids. It looks to be a good family adventure.

On to the spa. Happily Jeff Matthews, who is a good friend and the head of Mandara for Asia, had let them know ahead of time that we were coming. Vicky, the very impressive Spa Director, greeted us and was expecting us. That was nice. I learned that this is their NEW Mandara Spa - opened just a year ago since they had outgrown the old one. This one has 35 treatment rooms and the men's and women's locker rooms have saunas, steam, hot whirlpool and cool plunge (note, not cold, but cool plunge....probably a good idea since I rarely see anyone going into a cold plunge). And surprisingly, the spa rates seemed cheap!

Nice decor in the spa - more sophisticated than the rest of the resort that's for sure. The suite where we had our couple's massage was quite nice - shower, restroom, tastefully decorated, etc. Both therapists were excellent (and they washed their hands before starting the treatment - hurray!). I would give my therapist an eight on a 10 point scale, Peter would give his therapist a seven. Since we are rather picky, those are not bad scores.

I worked out in the fitness center the next day (this morning) which I learned was also managed by Mandara. I find it interesting that more spas are managing fitness facilities these days. It used to be that fitness and spa were very separate from each other in hotels and resorts. But I like this coming together because it broadens the public's view of spa to include not only the pampering and stress-reducing therapies which help people take a step toward wellness, but the exercise gym and studio which does as well.

The gym had quite a large display of Elemis products - in fact more obvious than the product display in the spa itself. Knowing that Steiner (who owns Mandara and Elemis) is known for high retail sales in their spas, I was surprised to see the rather subtle product presentation in the spa. It would be interesting to know if the product sales in this spa are as brisk as in other Mandara/Elemis/Steiner managed properties.

Well...I will save my One & Only Spa report till later since the clock is ticking here in the business center.

**
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Spa Industry Brain Dump

noreply@blogger.com (Susie Ellis) — Thu, 12 Jun 2008 17:37:00 +0000

Spa Industry Brain Dump
by Susie Ellis

I had someone in my office yesterday who is a big-time investor (billions of dollars in a fund). He wants to learn about the spa industry as quickly as possible. Someone told him he should begin by getting in touch with me - I am flattered.

Sitting here among my bookcases which house my very extensive library of spa books and magazines from the past 30 years, and my file cabinets which contain copies of spa industry research from around the world that I have archived for as long as there has been spa industry research, I thought to myself....where to begin?

It appears as if he wants to be brought up-to-speed on our industry within about two weeks. Yikes. Tall order.

Since we had only about 30 minutes of time together, I figured the best thing I could do was point out some good resources and let him take it from there. I guess these investor-types are quick studies (hopefully).

Fortunately at that very moment I had three resources on my desk which I thought would be the best place to begin. SpaFinder's Global Spa Directory, often referred to as the "the Bible of Spas" (not my words, but others) which is always a good overview, and the following new publications:

1. The hot-off-the-press SRI report on the The Global Spa Economy 2007.

2. A new book, Understanding the Global Spa Industry, edited by Marc Cohen & Gerry Bodeker.

Lucky guy....I wish those resources had been available when I began my career a few decades ago.

While the SRI report might be a tad pricey for an individual ($1495), it is a solid investment for companies or anyone who will be entering the spa arena. It's certainly a smart move for someone deciding where to put significant investment money.

The second resource is affordable (although not cheap) but wow....what a valuable read. This 450+ page global spa industry book is actually a spa management text with 25 chapters. Each chapter was written by a different spa industry expert which is why I think it is so interesting. You don't just get one person's viewpoint, you get 25 different frames of reference. That's important because in my opinion our industry is too new and too global to settle for one author's account.

Now just for full disclosure, the reason the book was on my desk (it doesn't come out until July) is because I authored one chapter (the one on spa trends) and this was an advance copy. Lest you think I am "selling" the book on my blog, I should add that none of the authors got paid to write our chapter and none of us (except maybe Marc and Gerry) will make any money from sales. Like so many things in a young industry....it was a labor of love. My guess is that it will turn out to be just that for Marc and Gerry as well since, let's face it, outside of our industry it won't likely make the New York Times Best Seller List.

What I like most about the book is that the authors do not agree on everything. In fact, it's obvious that different people see things differently. That is reality for the current global spa industry and that is where investors can seize opportunity.

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Dr. Richard Carmona Speaks About Spas and Their Vital Role in Global Health: Spas Matter!

noreply@blogger.com (Susie Ellis) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 18:44:00 +0000

Dr. Richard Carmona Speaks About Spas and Their Vital Role in Global Health: Spas Matter!

by Susie Ellis

Dr. Richard Carmona, the 17th U.S. Surgeon General (2002-2006), was a keynote speaker at the 2008 Global Spa Summit held at the Waldorf Astoria here in New York City last month.

He received a standing ovation!

Here is why I think there was such spontaneous and enthusiastic response to his remarks. Dr. Carmona, who is now Vice Chairman, Canyon Ranch and president, Canyon Ranch Institute, Arizona, said what many of us in the spa industry have been saying for years. The thing is that hearing Dr. Carmona say the words is different than you or me saying them. He spoke with complete conviction, authority, and enthusiasm to 'make good' on his words. We believed him. He 'gets' spas and the value they bring to society. At last. This is what we have been waiting for.

Here are a few quotes from notes taken during his session, Prevention and Global Health: The Vital Role of Spas.

"We are living in a 'sick care' system where we reward providers to wait until we get sick, and then we need to pay more to get better."

"Most things I have treated as a doctor were preventable and due to sedentary lifestyles, negligence in life, poor diets, smoking, and drinking."

"Health should not know any geographical borders."

"Everyone can contribute to change the general health situation. The key is changing people's behavior. Let's embrace health and wellness. How do I stay healthy and how can I prevent myself from diseases? Everyone needs to come together as a team to change the health issues globally."

"Awake the sleeping giant. Combine spa and wellness to prevent the reactive effect to sickness."

And then his final observations which were music to all of our ears: "The spa industry is taking a very key role in changing the global health situation."

After his remarks which included his expressed interest in a working relationship with our entire global spa industry, I responded on behalf of the delegation present that we would be very interested in working together as well.

I am happy to report that there is progress. His office called last week and we have a meeting set up next week to begin the dialogue and conversation. Dr. Carmona and the Global Spa Summit working together should be able to accomplish what neither would be able to do as well alone.

Hurray. Good news indeed.

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Global Spa Summit 2008: Spa Industry's Key Questions Answered

noreply@blogger.com (Susie Ellis) — Tue, 03 Jun 2008 13:33:00 +0000

Global Spa Summit 2008: Spa Industry's Key Questions Answered
by Susie Ellis

Want to know the #1 problem facing the global spa industry today? We know the answer - thanks to an instant audience response system technology which was used at the Global Spa Summit last month here in New York.

Here is a visual example of a keypad which was given to each delegate at the beginning of the Summit. It was used multiple times throughout the Summit to poll delegates. After seeing a question on the front screen, delegates punched in their votes and then the aggregated answers were displayed. More than 200 top spa industry professionals from 29 different countries around the world were in attendance at the Summit. Their answers are worth noting. Here is an example:

"What do you consider to be the #1 problem facing the global spa industry today?"

The answers appeared a few seconds later and we were even able to compare them with the answers given the previous year at the 2007 Summit. That makes for an interesting side-by-side comparison. Conclusions:

1. The industry's labor shortage was the number #1 problem last year and is the #1 problem again this year. And it appears to be getting worse.

2. The issue of benchmarking and need for best practices which were major concerns in 2007 are still concerns - however their severity seems to have lessened.

3. Sustainability and environmental issues continue to round out the top three.

4. A major change from last year to this year is a significantly greater concern about low margins in the industry.

Viewing collective answers to some very important questions was a good way to start the Summit. I will share other Q & A later to give you a real "pulse" of the industry.

**
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Global Spa Summit 2008 - Another Perspective

noreply@blogger.com (Susie Ellis) — Mon, 02 Jun 2008 01:13:00 +0000

Global Spa Summit 2008 - Another Perspective
by Susie Ellis

Can’t believe that my one week vacation post-Global Spa Summit is over. Alas, I could use another week – however, I am grateful that even seven days away has helped me refocus and perhaps gain a wider perspective. When you work so hard on one project, it takes a while to 'decompress' and get back to realizing that there are other things in life apart from 'the' event. The Global Spa Summit 2008 was a great success on so many fronts thanks to a great many people and now it is time to move forward and build on what took place.

During my week of r & r, I had a chance to make good on my promise to get my first colonoscopy (drinking the fluid wasn’t as bad as everyone told me it would be), and catch the two big movies of the week – Indiana Jones (ho hum) and Sex in the City (fun and yes, I cried). And sleep. And sleep some more.

Tomorrow I head to the office and am very much looking forward to getting back to work. There is still a lot of Summit wrap-up to do, and also some new initiatives to dive into. All of it feels exciting and energizing to me.

I will recap some of the 2008 Global Spa Summit highlights as promised beginning with my next blog, however what strikes me most right now is that the real value of the Summit is not so much what happened at the event, but what happens between the Summits. I don’t remember who it was that said to me they will measure the success of the Global Spa Summit by what happens from one to the next, however, I took that to heart. Just getting together to network isn’t enough. Moving agendas forward is what is needed. And am happy to say that there was real progress between GSS 2007 and 2008 and I anticipate even more between 2008 and 2009. That feels good.

More about all that tomorrow. For now I will indulge in one more very good night’s sleep without event details flying through my head. Which reminds me…there is sweet pleasure in knowing that sleep health was not only a trend we predicted several years ago for the spa industry that turned out to be right on target, but it has also been an area of personal progress which I truly cherish. Night-night.
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Global Spa Summit 2008: Ian Schrager Addresses Spa Design (or Rather, The Lack Of...)

noreply@blogger.com (Susie Ellis) — Wed, 28 May 2008 15:24:00 +0000

Global Spa Summit 2008: Ian Schrager Addresses Spa Design (or Rather, The Lack Of...)

by Susie Ellis

At the 2008 Global Spa Summit, Ian Schrager, who was the keynote speaker for Day One , gave a very inspirational talk. Looking somewhat "hip" himself (although in my opinion a tad older than the age (61) I had read about in a recent article), he began his remarks in a husky voice. I almost got up to get him a glass of water until I realized - that is his regular voice. Maybe that's a result of a lot of inhaled smoke from his first brainchild - Studio 54 back in the 80's. (And yes, since I actually was allowed past the velvet ropes into Studio 54 once back then, I can vouch for the fact that there was plenty of smoke - and all kinds of smoking if you know what I mean.)

Anyway...back to the essense of his remarks which were so inspiring. Here are the five things he said which I remember most clearly:

1. The spa industry needs a lot more creativity...we have started recyclying the same old ideas over and over and we are not coming up with anything new.

2. Looking at other spas for inspiration for new spa design is a bad idea. Rather look outside of the spa industry. See what is happening in fashion for example, or maybe in yacht design, or hip restaurants, etc.

3. Don't rely on focus groups or asking others for ideas when it comes to innovation...people cannot articulate something they haven't seen. Rather, rely on your gut - something you want to see that is brand new.

4. Creativity in decor has nothing to do with the color of the carpet. It has everything to do with a new idea that sparks enthusiasm and catches on.

5. Much of his "secret" was how he tapped into people's natural (and strong) desire to relate to each other. Social, social, social.....that's where some "nuggets" of creativity will likely lie for spas of the future.

He showed slides of his various creations - all mesmerizing in their creativity and "thinking outside the box." (It is worth looking at the slides viewable on the Internet.) What really impressed me about Ian's talk is that every single person I spoke with thought it was terrific. And every slide he showed was of an unusual concept that was universally popular. That is genius.

Post Summit...one of the spa-tours we recommended was having a drink at the Gramercy Park Hotel (right around the corner from SpaFinder). A great finish to a remarkable experience with Ian Schrager himself.

Oh...I should mention...his latest collaboration is a venture with Marriott where a new brand will incorporate Ian Schrager designs in the rooms of about 100 boutique hotels. Although there were questions about how this could possibly work, after seeing what he has done in the past - I have no doubt it will work beautifully!

"I am still passionate about continuing to rethink things and shake things up.

Coming up with breakthrough concepts and going off into unchartered territory."

Ian Schrager

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Global Spa Summit 2008: Spa Economy hits $255 Billion

noreply@blogger.com (Susie Ellis) — Fri, 23 May 2008 18:02:00 +0000

Global Spa Summit 2008: Spa Economy hits $255 Billion
by Susie Ellis, SpaFinder

Whew…Global Spa Summit 2008 just wrapped and what an amazing event. I learned so much and had such fun. It was wonderful to see so many of my colleagues – there were 230 participants representing 29 different countries from around the world. Highlights included:

Presentation of the First Ever Global Spa Economy Report
Keynote address by Ian Schrager (inspirational)

Regional Briefings from five panels: The Spa Industry in Asia, Europe, North America, Latin America and the newer markets of Russia and South Africa
A delegation of spa management students from Cornell, The Lausanne Hotel School and UCIrvine.
Keynote address by Dr. Richard Carmona (he received a standing ovation)
And some interesting breakout sessions such as “The Soulful Spa,” “Deal Makers Give Advice,” and “Investor Insights.”

There was also a bit of controversy which I will share with you as well. For now, have a look at the Summit agenda to give you a sense of the rich content of this event.
**
If you wish to be put on a list that automatically sends my blog posts to your email, just let dulcy.gregory@spafinder.com know and she will add you to that list. Thanks so much!

Spa Terminology: Wellness or Well-being?

noreply@blogger.com (Susie Ellis) — Sat, 17 May 2008 18:26:00 +0000

Spa Terminology: Wellness or Well-being?
by Susie Ellis, SpaFinder

Earlier this week I attended the New York Spa Promotion Alliance (NYSPA) conference. This year it was held at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY. Professor Mary Tabacchi organizes this event every year and despite the unfortunate timing (just days before the Global Spa Summit), I always try to attend because she gets great speakers and I always learn a lot from these interactions.

One of the "pearls of wisdom" I took away this time was as a result of something that Dr. Mark Liponis, Medical Director at Canyon Ranch, said during his remarks on a panel titled 'Spa to 'Wellness to Lifestyle.'

The debate came around to terminology (as it often does when the word spa is involved) yet the discussion this time was about the term wellness. Mark mentioned that he doesn't really like the term wellness and much prefers the term well-being because the 'being' part is really important.

Also on the same panel was Perry Garfinkel, a best selling author and regular contributor to the New York Times, National Geographic, etc. He has written a book called Buddha or Bust. Being one of those meditative-types, he too talked about the value of 'being.'

This issue of Human-Doing versus Human-Being is an important one. And if using the term 'well-being' helps drive the 'being' point home, maybe we should all use it a bit more.

All that aside, I predict that the term wellness will trump the term well-being in the marketplace because it has become an international term wildly popular in Europe and Asia. Maybe it's because people in those countries are much better at 'being' than many of us in the U.S.

**
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Reiki at a Spa. Real Energy Medicine or Bunk?

noreply@blogger.com (Susie Ellis) — Sat, 10 May 2008 08:54:00 +0000

Reiki at a Spa. Real Energy Medicine or Bunk?
by Susie Ellis

Reiki. I have always found it mysterious. What is it exactly? Every explanation I have heard seems to be different. I have tried it a few times, however when faced with a choice between a wonderfully relaxing deep-tissue massage or a Reiki session, I have always opted for the massage. In Reiki there isn't a lot of actual touch - and no massaging of muscles. In fact I have been suspicious of the possibility that a therapist likes to do Reiki because it isn't as much work - a way for them to "rest" during a treatment.

Well, I stand corrected. I couldn't have been more wrong about Reiki (or perhaps I should say about Reiki with a Reiki Master.) During my visit to the Trisara Resort & Spa they had arranged for me to have a session with this famous Reiki healer in Phuket.

Here is what I remember: The Reiki practitioner had a gentle and positive spirit. He explained ahead of time that we would begin with me on the massage table face up, and then later face down. I wouldn't necessarily feel anything, however many people have found that they feel an energy release afterward. For some it is more immediate, for others within the next day or two. Some people get emotional, others just have a greater sense of the body/mind/spirit being in balance.

So we began. After washing his hands and some mental preparation, he cupped his hands and began "hovering" over various parts of my body. I could feel an intense heat from his hands which he kept close to - but not directly on - my body. He seemed to be channeling energy from his body to mine. This kind of energy transmission happened continually as he went from one part of the body to another. Always, there was heat from his hands. The entire session was about 75 minutes and the longer it went on, the more pleasurable the feeling of energy transfer was.

That was it. The only "ah ha" moment during this time was a very bright flashlight-like strobe which I saw while my eyes were closed which startled me. I really don't know if I had fallen asleep and was dreaming or if some other phenomenon had occured.

Anyway, the practitioner bid me farewell after which I went right from the massage table to change and then head to the Phuket airport for my trip back to New York. As I began what would end up being a 24 hour journey home, I was aware of feeling a bit more relaxed than usual, a bit less anxious - in fact not anxious at all. And then it happened. A flood of tears during my layover at the Bangkok airport. The weeping lasted about two hours. Now I suppose it might have had something to do with the fact that my flight out of Phuket was delayed five hours and I missed my connection to New York and had to rearrange everything through Tokyo, etc. However, I am a seasoned traveler and have faced these sort of travel irritations many times and never have they resulted in an uncontrollable flood of tears. Something had truly shifted.

It seems time for me to learn more about Reiki and energy medicine. Please share with me whatever experience you may have had. You have my attention.

**
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Trisara Resort and Spa: The Perfectly Designed Hotel Suite with Plenty of Room for Spa Treatments

noreply@blogger.com (Susie Ellis) — Tue, 06 May 2008 14:23:00 +0000

Trisara Resort and Spa: The Perfectly Designed Hotel Suite with Plenty of Room for Spa Treatments
by Susie Ellis

Last year I experienced what I considered to be one of the most perfectly choreographed spa treatments I had ever had. It was at the Sphatika Holistic Treatment Center in New York - a 2 hour treatment superbly executed. Later I found out that they had worked on this particular treatment for five years in order to reach this level of perfection!

Well, now I feel that I have experienced the most perfectly designed resort suite. Am here at the Trisara Resort and Spa in Phuket, Thailand. And sure enough, when I had breakfast with the general manager, Anthony Lark, I found out that he had spent almost ten years thinking about and finally designing and perfecting this room. It was 1,000 square feet and all I can say is that I couldn't wait to get back to the room although the rest of the resort was superb as well.
Apparently every villa at the resort has this same design which includes an infinity pool and ocean view from every part of the villa - from the office/bedroom/sitting&eating area, and even the long bathroom that runs the length of the entire villa behind the bed and rooms. That's the ingenious part.

Take a look at the photo. You can see the bed from which the view would include the large infinity pool and past that, the ocean. If you are lying in bed, to the right of you is a large area with a desk, a large (initially hidden) area to plug in all kinds of electronics, banquette space, storage underneath and some closet and drawers all built in. To the left of you is the sitting/eating area from which you enjoy the same pool/ocean view. There is a spacious minibar area including a large pull-out shelf with coffee maker, instant hot tea maker, dishes, etc.

This large open trio of rooms has gorgeous wooden ceilings - each with a dfferent configuration and at varying heights, with all kinds of lighting effects. And then what was really cool, is that if you are lying in bed - behind you and running across the entire back of the villa - is the bathroom from which you can also enjoy the infinity pool/ocean view because there are pocket windows (mirrored) that stretch the length of the room above and behind the bed. When these are opened, they give you the ocean view from the bathroom and when closed give the bathroom total privacy.

It wasn't just the design of the villa, it was also every small little detail that felt perfect - like the reading light above your bed that shines at just the perfect angle and where you can reach the switch from your bed without straining, etc.

There is something about perfection that is inspiring...and in a way, part of what makes a spa vacation something memorable and transformative.

The only thing I felt didn't fit was a kind of elephant-like structure made out of two hand towels to which two small black slips had been added to look like eyes that was sitting on the banquette in front of the bed to greet you when you first arrived at the room. It reminded me of the "napkin-art" you get at convention meals. Odd, but I suppose, forgiveable.

**
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Most Expensive Spa in the World Opening Soon! Six Senses Spa to Introduce its Destination Spa and 7th Sense Spa Experience

noreply@blogger.com (Susie Ellis) — Sun, 04 May 2008 01:24:00 +0000

Most Expensive Spa in the World Opening Soon! Six Senses Spa to Introduce its Destination Spa and 7th Sense Spa Experience
by Susie Ellis

Had a sneak peek at the soon-to-be-launched new Six Senses Destination Spa here in Thailand. It was a 30 minute boat ride from the Six Senses Hideaway Yao Noi where I am currently staying. During a tour of the property which is nearing completion (although it looks to me will need more time than they think to be ready for opening), I kept saying, "wow," "wow," "wow" with every corner I turned.

The opening of this Destination Spa is going to be big news, - both inside the spa industry and outside of the spa industry. My guess is that these will be the big media stories:

1. You can eat the landscaping around your villa and pretty much eat everything else growing on the property.

2. This isn't one spa - it is literally four spas in one: an Indian spa, an Indonesian Spa, a Chinese Spa, and a Thai Spa. And I don't mean "area" but "spa"! There is also a salon called the hair spa as well as color therapy spaces, colonics, Watsu area, Pilates, kenisis, a feng shui'd gym (finally!), and a host of other offerings too numerous for me to remember. It would be easier to try and list what they don't offer.

3. Although not a medical spa per se, there will be master practitioners and medical doctors and an emphasis on both Eastern and Western wellness options - no aesthetic medicine.

4. It will no doubt be lauded for its ecologically embedded practices.

5. The food will likely get rave reviews because of the garden-fresh ingredients, their raw food restaurant option, and the status of their spa-celebrity chefs.

6. The 7th Sense will be introduced which will trump the Sixth.

7. It will be the most expensive spa in the world.

There are very few true destination spas left. In Asia there are just a handful - Chiva Som in Thailand (the most well known), Como Shambala in Bali (very small but exquisite), and the Farm at San Benito in the Philippines (unfortunately, a well kept secret).

North America has Canyon Ranch, Miraval, Rancho La Puerta, Golden Door, Greenhouse, Cal a Vie, and about 10 others. All destination spas are gems in my opinion. Very expensive to create and operate yet offer the greatest chance to pursue wellness and transformation. Bottom line for me is that I always feel my best (and am told I look my best) after a stay at a destination spa.

In fact that reminds me of how I recently heard someone describe the difference between a resort spa and a destination spa: When you return home from a resort spa you tell others how great it looked. When you return home from a destination spa others tell you how great you look!

Stay tuned....and fasten your seat belts.

**
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What Makes a Spa Soulful? Contemplating this Question at a Soulful Spa in Thailand is a Good Way to Find Out.

noreply@blogger.com (Susie Ellis) — Fri, 02 May 2008 09:22:00 +0000

What Makes a Spa Soulful? Contemplating this at a Soulful Spa in Thailand is a Good Way to Find Out.
by Susie Ellis

Am in Thailand at the Six Senses Hideaway Yao Noi while at the same time continuing my work regarding preparations for the Global Spa Summit 2008. Interesting how the two intersect.

Am working with the famous architect Robert Henry who will be leading a panel discussion on "How to Create, Design, and Maintain a Spa with Soul" at the Summit which both of us feel is a very exciting and timely topic. Spas are becoming big business and increasingly we find large companies and corporations beginning to create spas when in the past they were birthed and nurtured by individuals whose passion guided the evolution of their spas. People like Deborah Szekely (Rancho La Puerta and Golden Door), Sheila Cluff (The Oaks at Ojai), Dorothy Purdue (various spas in UK), and Enid and Mel Zuckerman (Canyon Ranch), etc.

Here at this very exclusive Six Senses Hideaway I think most people would agree it is a "spa with soul." This one was create by founders of the Six Senses and Soneva Brands, the famous Eve and Sonu team.

All villas have butlers, pools, and mesmerizing views - mine with turquoise water and small islands in the distance. The design and décor is imaginative, the entire resort is not only eco-friendly but what I call eco-embedded. The entire experience one of a sort of "barefoot luxury." Part of the fine dining room sits on top of a glass floor under which is a magically lit green plant garden with trickling stream. And don't even get me started on the "Private Reserve" villa with the 180-degree view and gigantic pool which rents for $16,000 per night.

My outdoor shower has two shower heads. One is a rain shower and the other a more traditional shower head (for when you don't want to get your hair wet). The mini bar has lots of healthy things (and some not-so-healthy for the occasional indulgence). No nickel and dime fees....everything is complimentary. (Well, you can figure it is in the price of your villa.)

It is easy to get a spa treatment booked because they have plenty of staff available so I was able to simply walk in and collapse in their care on day one when I was still feeling jet-lagged.

Have had some very nice moments of time to think about what makes a spa soulful. Can't wait to hear what Robert and his panel share from their points of view.
**

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A "Plugged-In" Spa Visit to Thailand with Massage and Facial on Day One and a Pre-Flight Manicure and Pedicure

noreply@blogger.com (Susie Ellis) — Tue, 29 Apr 2008 07:42:00 +0000

A "Plugged-In" Spa Visit To Thailand with Massage and Facial on Day One and a Pre-Flight Manicure and Pedicure
by Susie Ellis

Just got to Thailand after a 16 hour flight from New York to Bangkok aboard Thai Airways, a three hour layover at the Bangkok airport, a one hour flight to Phuket, a 1/2 hour drive to a jetty and a 45 minute boat trip to the island of Yao Noi where I am staying at the Six Senses Hideaway.

I have learned to make the most of my traveling. Got a manicure and pedicure in at the JFK airport (what a time-saver that was!) and answered about 50 emails on the flight (which to the chagrin of the receivers - especially my assistant - all go out at the exact moment that I land in Bangkok), handled another bunch of emails at the Bangkok airport, and finished up the rest when I arrived at Six Senses Hideaway.

Am in the middle of helping plan the Global Spa Summit and don't have the luxury of turning off my Treo for the duration of my trip...however I am not complaining. This is going to be a "plugged in" trip rather than an "unplugged" trip. However, if it wasn't plugged in, I wouldn't be able to take it.

More later....

**

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SpaFinder Biggest Loser Contest Finale with Spa Trips for the Winners!

noreply@blogger.com (Susie Ellis) — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 11:55:00 +0000

SpaFinder Biggest Loser Contest Finale with Spa Trips for the Winners!

by Susie Ellis

The SpaFinder Biggest Loser Contest began in January and ended with our "grand finale" yesterday! We got down to our final 4, pictured here from left to right: Lisa (Accounting), Dan (SpaBooker), Sarah (Publishing), Nikki (Accounting) and each stepped on the scale for the final time at 5:00 p.m. Our winner was Sarah Day - who had lost the highest percentage of body weight and about 22 lbs! Her prize was a week at the spa of her choice - and she chose Rancho la Puerta!

We had designed our Biggest Loser contest to have a runner up - someone who had been voted off and didn't make it into the final four but lost the most weight. That winner (pictured to the right with Sarah Day) was Raul Diaz (Online Marketing) who lost 55 lbs! His prize was a weekend at a spa and he choose the Lodge at Woodloch.

And finally, there was a prize for the group who lost the most weight. That prize - a group trip to a day spa in New York for a spa treatment and lunch at Great Jones Spa - was won by the group named the Ice Screamers. This group lost over 100 lbs in total (yes, that's me on the right and I did contribute 4 lbs of that weight loss). Also pictured from left to right: Raul, Amanda (Web Editor), Alex (SpaBooker), Emma (Accounting), Reggie (IT), and Nikki.

All in all, this contest was a huge success. The company lost about 275 lbs and since the contest lasted for 4 months, this was not as much about a crash diet as it was about losing and keeping the weight off. The unexpected pay-off was getting to know people in other departments and learning that working for your team mates can be a greater incentive than just losing weight for yourself.

And the final lesson - that it is possible for someone to make it to the final four (Dan) who never lost a pound but was so clever at forming (and deceiving) alliances that he taught us that strategy is definitely part of the game. (On the other hand, in the end....seems that you will have to pay your own way to a spa Dan.) :)

**
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Spa Related Highlights from a Hospitality Forum: Through my Spa Eyes

noreply@blogger.com (Susie Ellis) — Fri, 18 Apr 2008 19:19:00 +0000

Spa Related Highlights from a Hospitality Forum: Through my Spa Eyes
by Susie Ellis

A few things got my attention at yesterday’s 2008 Leadership in Hospitality & Leisure Executive Forum (an Argyle Executive Forum) which was held here in New York. Some of us “spa-types” were in attendance - Judy Singer, Patti Monteson, and Jeff Kohl – but most were either hotel executives from companies such as Ritz-Carlton, Starwood, Marriott, Loews, Jumeirah, Wyndham, and Disney or financial/investor folks. From my notes, here are a few spa and hotel related highlights. I will elaborate as I have time in future blogs.

• Theatrical hospitality is a new buzzword (I like that)
• Walt Disney is expanding their brand and getting more into hotels and spas (for families, no doubt)
• Hotels need to keep up with consumer expectations – this can often be costly. Currently the big “must have” is the flat screen TV. Next will be the curved shower curtain. (Yep, love those curved shower curtain rods where I don’t have to have my body come in contact with the curtain!)
• Highest growth potential for hotels/resorts/spas currently is in Russia, Turkey, China, Thailand, and Malaysia. (Turkey was the surprise for me on this list)
• A new growth area for hotels and spas which is not yet on people’s radar, is the northern part of Africa (Interesting)

• Blue Harmony “Renew you inner Rhythm” is the spa and fitness program that Wyndham is going to be rolling out. The blue is for water and the name kind of fits with their Gen X positioning. (Wonder if they can execute…)
• Aber and Kent is getting into the Exclusive Resorts arena…interesting idea to have this new product category with a recognized brand name. (Clever)
• Jumeirah wants to help people not feel guilty while enjoying their luxury. (at least they admit it…am sure they aren’t the only ones)
• High touch and good architecture is not so easy for Asia to duplicate quickly. (It’s the high touch part that’s tough with a language barrier)
• Residences are becoming more and more a part of the hotel/resort formula. In fact, I am now seeing brands say they are in the hotel/resort/residence business. (Pardon me while I revert to third grade antics: “I told you so” – hmmm that felt good)
• People are really starting to talk about Gen X. (Makes me think we are right on trend with our switch to the new SpaFinder Interactive Magazine in 6 different languages.)
• Even the people in emerging markets know “what is in.” (The Internet and TV make what’s “in” instantly known)
• The other shoe has dropped in Las Vegas. There were ten projects under construction and now it appears as if the Fountainbleu will be the only one to make it to the finish line at the end of this year. It will cost more than $4 billion, be the tallest hotel on the strip (63 stories), will not have a “theme,” and their 50,000-square-foot spa will be in the sky. (With all that investment, I hope they get the spa right…but time and time again, I see people miss the opportunity to do something extraordinary. Fingers crossed.)

**
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Spa Lifestyle Real Estate Experiences a Hiccup: Spa Lifestyle Living Still Resonates

noreply@blogger.com (Susie Ellis) — Sun, 13 Apr 2008 20:19:00 +0000

Spa Lifestyle Real Estate Experiences a Hiccup: Spa Lifestyle Living Still Resonates
by Susie Ellis

Sad news. Canyon Ranch Living Chicago, which was in the design and pre-sale phase, has been cancelled. This article, "End of the Trail", gives some of the details. From the few mentions I could find on the web, it appears that there were insufficient sales of condos and that it fell victim to the current market crunch. Too bad. The design seemed really inspired and I love the idea of "wellness condos."

But timing is a big factor in these kinds of things. What would have worked several years ago - and may very well work several years from now - is struggling today amidst the bad economic news. Who knows, it may have been the size of the project, the price point, the location, or maybe the marketing plan that didn't work. And I can't help but wonder if the condo project was kept alive longer than it might have been because of its unique spa aspect.

One thing I am convinced about, however, is that the idea of spa lifestyle real estate is here to stay and it will find its ideal expression as time goes on. Canyon Ranch Living in Miami looks to be a successful project - as does Miraval Living in New York. Red Mountain keeps building more residences because of the demand and our spa real estate section on Spafinder.com keeps growing.

This situation reminds me a bit of the time when the internet bubble burst. Remember? The bubble grew from approximately 1995 - 2001 and then it "burst" and share prices fell dramatically. The pendulum swung from being gung-ho regarding the Internet to doom and gloom. I remember noticing only one person during the "down" time who kept saying, "don't worry about it. The future of the Internet is still so amazing that even with this "correction" there will be huge upsides and the Internet world will continue to grow exponentially." That person was my husband. In time, he was proven correct.

Alas...I feel the same way about setbacks in the evolution of spa lifestyle real estate. To me it is a two steps forward and one step back kind of thing. The fundamentals are just too compelling: aging baby boomers who are reaching retirement age, who value their health and well-being above almost anything else and who have money (much of it inherited) to spend. We also have a younger generation embracing the LOHAS (Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability) lifestyle and wanting to raise their families in a healthy environment.

Real estate with spa components is here to stay.

**
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Spas and Sleep Health: A Sizzling Hot Topic for Spas and Beyond!

noreply@blogger.com (Susie Ellis) — Fri, 11 Apr 2008 17:10:00 +0000

Spas and Sleep Health: A Sizzling Hot Topic in Spas and Beyond
by Susie Ellis
You know that something is a "hot" topic when it comes to you from many different angles at around the same time. Here are three things that came across my desk in the past 48 hours:

1. “Great Reads: Nonfiction,” People Magazine, April 7, 2008

It isn't every day that my People Magazine reading alerts me to a book that is useful for my work. However, when I saw this positive mention for Gayle Greene's new book, Insomniac, and a mention that it is the last book you ever need to read about sleep, I went right to my computer and ordered it.

2. This morning, I received a press release with this headline: "NEW YORK STATE HOTELS AND INNS HELP GUESTS GET A RESTFUL NIGHT DURING NATIONAL BETTER SLEEP MONTH." It seems there are a variety of hotels offering packages and products to guests in May for Better Sleep Month. These are "designed to celebrate the healthy quality of life difference that only a good night's sleep can provide."

3. Also this morning I received an urgent message from Cassandra at our SpaFinder Europe office stating that one of the big papers is doing a story on sleep health and wants me to comment. Their questions included: Is sleep really 'the new wellness frontier'? Why are spas suddenly taking sleep so seriously? Which spas in the UK do you recommend for Insomniacs?

Even though we at SpaFinder predicted sleep health as a top spa trend for 2007 and again in 2008 as it relates to weight loss, I wasn't prepared for such a groundswell of interest. The more I learn, the more I am convinced that this pillar of health will become of even greater importance and interest to all of us in the future. Researchers are just beginning to understand this part of our lives in which we spend almost 1/3 of our time.

Stay tuned!

**
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Spa Management Students at the Global Spa Summit - Spa Intensive versus Spa 101

noreply@blogger.com (Susie Ellis) — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 10:35:00 +0000

Spa Management Students at the Global Spa Summit - Spa Intensive versus Spa 101

by Susie Ellis

Of all the exciting things I get to work on in preparation for the Global Spa Summit (sometimes I refer to it as Spa Davos - à la World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland) one of my favorites is the plan for 10 lucky spa management students who will be joining us this year.

Four students from Cornell University's School of Hospitality Administration
Four students from Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne
Two from the UCIrvine's Extention Spa and Hospitality Management Program

They will be "Scribes" for the Global Spa Summit sessions. That means they take notes which we later put into a White Paper Presentation. They will also get to meet and mingle with all of the 200 delegates from around the world. And since our industry has a labor shortage due to its rapid expansion, they will also, no doubt, receive a smattering of job offers.

It reminds me of the days I was a student....such an exciting time of promise, looking to the future, having the sense you will one day get a chance to change the world.

My sister, Katrine (she is in graduate school getting her Master's in English Literature), often says..."in school you move 'pretend molecules' and once you are out, you get to move 'real molecules'." It is her way of comparing the difference between reading fiction and discussing case studies at school versus getting out into the world and creating your own stories.

I feel lucky to be moving some real molecules nowadays.

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Spa Lockers are Not Safe for Major Valuables

noreply@blogger.com (Susie Ellis) — Sat, 29 Mar 2008 09:29:00 +0000

Spa Lockers are Not Safe for Major Valuables
by Susie Ellis

My neighbor’s valuable Cartier watch was stolen from his spa locker at the Wynn in Las Vegas a few weeks ago. He had changed into his spa robe, put his clothes and watch in the locker, and then punched in his “secret” four digit code to lock the locker. He walked away to enjoy the spa amenities and a massage. When he came back he punched in his “secret” four digit code again, opened the locker and saw immediately that his watch was gone.

Unfortunately, reporting the incident didn’t resolve anything with the Wynn (nor gain any sympathy I understand.) Perhaps Las Vegas hotels deal with these sorts of things often. I once saw a 60 Minutes TV report in which hidden cameras caught people purposely slipping and falling at casinos who later tried to sue in hopes of getting a settlement. Perhaps the same thing happens with people reporting missing valuables. In my friend’s case, it really happened.

This brings me to one of my “insider tidbits.” NEVER LEAVE JEWELRY OR MONEY IN A GYM OR SPA LOCKER – THEY AREN’T SAFE!

Here is why:

With a key system, it is too easy for attendants to access the master key which opens every locker.
With a punch system, there is an override code used by attendants if a guest forgets the code they entered. If this isn't changed daily, someone who worked yesterday could access lockers today, for example.
It is easy for other clients (or attendants) to watch you enter a "secret" combination. My friend suspects that’s what happened in his case.

The issue of valuables in spas is a major concern to all spas. Have you ever wondered why your spa robe doesn’t have pockets? Many spas have pocket less robes because too many clients have left jewelry in them and then some laundry person had to spend hours going through stacks of robes trying to find a needle in a haystack.

Although the best advice is to never bring jewelry or money to the spa at all, oftentimes it is hard to avoid. For more than 20 years now I have worn my wedding ring and watch into my massage or facial room, taken them off and put them on the counter (or in a small dish provided by the therapist) before my treatment. Of course there are risks with this also, however for me it beats worrying about valuables in my locker. The safest set up I have encountered thus far is a spa in Asia with a safe in each massage room for clients to lock things up.

I suppose there is still the possibility that I could forget to retrieve them.

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Spa Services and the Spa World Through a Teenager's Eyes

noreply@blogger.com (Susie Ellis) — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 16:14:00 +0000

Spa Services and the Spa World Through a Teenager's Eyes
by Susie Ellis

Well, I'm really convinced now. If I ever doubted that the younger generation is embracing spa-going enthusiastically (but in a different way than baby boomers), I need only remember yesterday - the day I spent with my niece (16-years-old) and her girlfriend.

Niece Christa is on spring break and visiting me with her girlfriend here in Palm Desert, California. I would say she is a typical teenager - into cheerleading competitions, text messaging, and guys. They started the day with working out at the gym, then headed to a spa/salon to get their eyebrows waxed and one had a bikini wax. When I asked them what they wanted to do in the afternoon during our planned time together - they said manicures and pedicures. On the way home we talked about girly things, whereupon Christa mentioned that what she wants for Christmas this year from all of the family is laser hair removal. Later I overheard them talking about a girl from their school (18-years-old) spending spring break getting a boob job. Wow - I am amazed.

When I was her age, I hadn't even had a manicure and my mom was still cutting my hair (not a good thing). Things sure are different now...for better or for worse. It seems:

1) Young girls have grown up seeing their parents go to spas and see it as a natural part of growing up.
2) They save money earned babysitting and working part time and spend it on salon and spa services.
3) They talk openly about what procedures they have had and "what so and so had done," etc. There is absolutely no thought of keeping any of this a secret!

And if all of this wasn't eye-opening enough, at our last lunch together today, I asked them if they had conversations at school comparing the differences between baby boomers and Gen X and Gen Y. Whereupon they informed me that they didn't know what Gen X and Gen Y was, but they seemed to remember reading about baby boomers in their history class. Oh dear....just shoot me now.

If you wish to be put on a list that automatically sends my blog posts to your email, just let dulcy.gregory@spafinder.com know and she will add you to that list. Thanks so much!

Sleep Health at Vacation Spas May be more Important than Massages, Facials, Manicures/Pedicures, Diet or even Exercise!

noreply@blogger.com (Susie Ellis) — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 01:16:00 +0000

Sleep Health at Vacation Spas May be more Important than Massages, Facials, Manicures/Pedicures, Diet, or even Exercise!

by Susie Ellis

The importance of sleep is something that has been on our SpaFinder top 10 spa trends list for the past two years. In 2007 the focus was on adding sleep health to diet and exercise as an equally (if not more) important pillar of health in spas. In 2008, because of the growing research which shows sleep deprivation is linked to obesity, emphasizing sleep health in weight-loss programs at spas was the focus.

Tonight's piece on CBS's 60 Minutes made these points clearer through video than I ever could in writing. I hope everyone who didn't see it would watch it. Here is the link. A new thing I learned is that it appears we can add diabetes to the long list of consequences of sleep deprivation.

Sometimes I think that sleep health is my mantra. And for this upcoming week - it is no exception. Here is why....

I was thinking this morning about the volatile financial market situation we witnessed last Friday and how this might affect the spa industry. And what advice I might give.

I remember the October 1997 stock market plunge (which was later called Black Monday) and ever since have been aware that bad news at the end of a week might result in even worse news on Mondays. It just makes sense to me that after a weekend when people kind of regroup, they begin thinking about their personal financial situation and start taking steps toward self preservation. Too many people making financial moves all at once on a Monday can spell disaster.

Of course, I hope that I am wrong. My advice, however, for both spa consumers as well as the spa industry would be the same - be extra careful to get enough sleep. Dealing with challenges wisely necessitates clear thinking and emotional balance. Eating well is a good idea, exercising helps, however getting healthy and adequate amounts of sleep is possibly even more important. If you aren't convinced, please do me (and yourself) a favor, and watch The Science of Sleep Part 1 and Part 2 from last night's 60 Minutes.

Well...am off to bed.

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