In listing their projected trends for 2010, international spa groups have made it clear that they’ve been listening to their clients’ suggestions.
Spa guests will find that customized procedures are more common and requests to listen to an Ipod during their massage may be granted.
This sort of personalized attention is just one of the highlights spa guests can expect this year. Other trends for 2010 include:
A Spiritual Element
While certain spa therapies have traditionally focused on healing the body, mind, and soul, a spiritual element will be more prominent. Many spas have added classes on meditation and life goals and have loosened the controls. Spa guests who feel more relaxed with specific aromatherapy blends or their own types of music are encouraged to request them.
Many spas have added yoga retreats, yoga classes, and yoga getaways where guests can focus on postures and inner strength. Spa cooking classes are focusing more on romance and feeding all one’s needs rather than on strictly technique and preparation.
A Family-oriented Approach
More destination spas are offering programs for the entire family. Rather than exclusively listing separate activities and therapies for adults and children, expect to find therapies, programs and classes inviting people of all ages. Road and Travel maintains a list of family friendly spas.
Spa Credits, Memberships, and Discounts
When booking a hotel, check for spa credits that provide guests with free or discounted access to the spa and its services. Watch for spa memberships that allow guests a certain number of monthly services. While some spas require that these services be used on specific days or at specific times, the savings can be tremendous. Expect to see more online advertised specials and discounts for new as well as regular spa-goers.
Green Spas
More spas are focusing on the environment and offering both green products and services. Expect to see more natural and organic products and outdoor treatments and classes. Visitors worldwide have been raving about the outdoor treatment garden at the Belladonna Day Spa and Retail Therapy Shop in New Orleans, Louisiana. Expect to see more spas following suit.
Improved Spa Amenities
More spas are providing natural fruit beverages, complementary snacks and lunches, and offering hand and scalp massages to waiting guests. Spas like Bliss and the Great Jones Spa in New York City have long offered guests having treatments access to their hot tubs, steam rooms, and pools. Expect to see more spas following this trend.
More Spa Wellness Resorts
The famous Pritkin Longevity Center and Spa has moved into the former Doral Resort and in 2010 Medicare will pay for treatment programs designed for weight reduction and cardiovascular health. Pritikin's new home is an Italianate gem with aquatherapy facilities, a fitness center, yoga and meditation centers, golf courses and tennis courts. Medical consultations and custom programs for guests make stays here much more than a vacation.
The new Mandarin Oriental Sanya Resort on China’s Hainan Island provides guests with the opportunity for shaman consultations and boasts a traditional Chinese medical pharmacy.
In Canada’s British Columbia, Canada’s very first Wellness Hotel has a grand opening scheduled for April 2010. The hotel will be part of the spectacular Sparkling Hills Resort.
Expanded Spa Services for Cruise Ships and Hotels
As each new Las Vegas Hotels builds more spacious and luxurious spa facilities, guests find it hard to stay away. With great competition for guests, hotel spas offer an affordable opportunity for visiting guests to try new treatments and participate in more spa activities. Expect to see more luxury spas with hammams where guests are treated like royalty. Also, expect to find new services like teeth whitening and Botox on your next cruise. Book your spa visits in advance when traveling because available spots fill up fast.
Combination Spa, Medical and Fitness Centers
Expect to find more spas combining their services with medical and fitness centers. Today’s health consumer wants a one-stop treatment approach and the new hybrid spa model offers fitness and spa consultations with health professionals and a wide array of cosmetic and wellness services, including weight-loss programs and sessions for improving sound sleep.
Elaine Moore - I'm a retired medical technologist and medical writer with more than 30 years experience working in hospital laboratories. Currently, I ...
Join the Conversation