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TRAVEL GETAWAYS
Ma's, Pa's and Spas
 Atlantic Hotel, Fort Lauderdale |
Spa visits are becoming more mainstream than luxury as people incorporate spa services into their daily lives. According to the International Spa Association, one in four adults has visited a spa.
The trends:
» Living at the spa. Canyon Ranch, known for its upscale services and products, has created condo communities in Miami and other locations that include a spa and wellness center, concierge service, multiple swimming pools and restaurants with light, nutritious food.
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» Toxic cleanup. At the Ritz-Carlton in Sarasota, Ionithermie treatments rid the body of toxins from caffeine, alcohol, tobacco and environmental pollutants.
» Total fitness. Spas are incorporating classes on healthy cooking, life balance and fitness.
» On the go. Spa owners are offering treatments on the go with mobile spas and home spa parties.
» Medical spas. This is the fastest-growing segment of the industry, with a 69% increase in facilities from 2003 to 2005. Spa visitors are booking appointments for chemical peels, microdermabrasion and body wraps.
» His and her treatments. Women traditionally have formed the customer base for most spas. But now men make up about 31% of spa clientele — especially when they’re traveling. Facilities are designing gender-specific experiences. Some spas, like the one at Starwood-branded Atlantic Hotel in Fort Lauderdale, tout side-by-side massages for couples.
» Double the pleasure. Spas are offering treatments that involve two or more massage therapists, sometimes working on customers at the same time.
» Ma and spa. Special services and products are available for mothers and babies.
Briefs — Spa News
» The International Spa Association plans to launch a new publication this year called LiveSpa. It aims to educate consumers on spa etiquette, aging, skin-care products and healthy eating, among other topics.
» ISPA and the Resort Hotel Association have created a code of conduct for spa-goers that includes responsibilities, such as communicating preferences and concerns, and rights, including a clean, safe, comfortable environment.
