European spa mag issue 63 by European Spa magazine

THE NO.1 MAGAZINE

FOR SPA AND WELLNESS

Issue 63 | April/May 2018 | www.europeanspamagazine.com

A PURE PHILOSOPHY

Let your soul run free at Vamed Vitality World, Austria

FASTING: THE FACTS All you need to know in our new Wellbeing 360Ë&#x161; series

IN SWEET HARMONY

The sumptuous city sanctuary inside Ten Trinity Square, UK

EXPERT GUIDE: NAILS How you can provide perfect manicures and pedicures

ANTI-AGEING INNOVATION

CAUDALIE

revolutionises anti-ageing

Caudalie makes an important breakthrough in global anti-ageing with the new Premier Cru Serum.

NEW PREMIER CRU THE SERUM

the ultimate in anti-ageing THE SKIN’S YOUTH As we age, our cells have less and less energy. The cells struggle to regenerate the "components of youth". And the older they get, the less they benefit from the active ingredients in anti-ageing skincare treatments.

ENERGY ACTIVATOR Formulated with the patented Vinergy®* complex, this serum intensely revitalizes the skin with energy to correct the signs of ageing. As an efficacy booster it multiplies the anti-ageing action of your cream(1). The skin appears visibly younger, beautifully enhanced and radiant with vitality.

SERUM + CREAM

7 times

MORE EFFECTIVE ON WRINKLES.

Premier CruThe Serum is a blend of Caudalie’s 4 active patents combined with the highest performing active ingredients at their optimal concentrations to correct signs of ageing in a single step.

EFFICACY BOOSTER + ENERGY ACTIVATOR Innovation: Vinergy®*

Our new patented Vinergy®* complex restores cellular energy to restart the vital functions(3) of the skin and correct the signs of ageing.

ANTI-WRINKLE + FIRMING Grapevine Resveratrol

Combined with a complex of micro hyaluronic acids, it increases the skin’s natural production of hyaluronic acid.

RADIANCE + ANTI-DARK SPOTS Viniferine from grapevine sap

62 times more effective than vitamin C(4) to correct all types of dark spots. It suits all skin tones and skin types, even the most sensitive.

(2)

ANTI-OXIDANT Grape-seed Polyphenols

THE NEW PREMIER CRU SERUM

Amongst the most powerful anti-oxidants in the plant world. They fight free radicals that are responsible for 80% of the skin’s ageing.

• Energy activator • Efficacy booster • Deep wrinkles, dark spots, firmness Make the difference to your Spa with exclusive Caudalie facial and body treatments. Contact us on +44 207 498 8944 • spapartner@caudalie.com • Twitter @CaudalieUK * Patent pending n°PCT/FR2017/050971 filed by Caudalie and Harvard University (1) Tested in association with Premier Cru The Cream. (2) Clinical study, 50 volunteers, twice-daily application for a duration of 28 days. Comparison of Premier Cru Serum + Cream vs Premier Cru Cream alone. (3) In-vitro test. (4) In-vitro test of the inhibitory action of Viniferine on tyrosinase.

BIOTEC A FORCE TO BE RECKONED WITH The power of the elements harnessed for visibly vibrant skin.

SCIENTIFICALLY PROVEN

to increase cell energy after

24 HOURS*

*Independent Scientific Study Results of BIOTEC Skin Energising Day Cream. Based on glucose uptake test. **Independent Clinical Trials of the BIOTEC Line Eraser Facial. ^Independent User Trials of the BIOTEC Line Eraser Facial, Client Self-Perception Q&A.

Increase in skin firmness and elasticity after just one treatment.**

100

Felt a visible and dramatic reduction in lines and wrinkles.^

Receive a FREE Support Pack when you purchase the BIOTEC Machine. Quote ‘ELEMISBIOTEC’ +44 (0)20 7907 2724 newbusiness@elemis.com ELEMIS.COM/NEWBUSINESS

Welcome I SS U E 63 | A P R I L / M AY 2018

Time to refresh and renew

pring is a time of renewal and this forward-looking issue is packed with the latest spa developments, news and expert thinking on a whole host of topics to inform and inspire. We bring back highlights from a host of spa industry events, including Berlin’s Healing Summit (p64) and the dedicated Spa Business Area at Beauty Düsseldorf (p28), as well as looking forward to what’s in store at this year’s HOTel & Spa Forum in Paris (p26). Our in-depth spa reports begin with a trip to the UK capital and The Spa at Four Seasons London at Ten Trinity Square, where an east-west fusion is delighting city workers seeking sanctuary from their hectic schedules (p32). Elsewhere, we take a tour with Vamed Vitality World’s chief operating officer Tom Bauer to discover the brand’s extraordinary portfolio of holistic spas located throughout Austria and Hungary (p70), which welcome an impressive 250,000 day spa guests each year. Then, we head south to Italy, to witness the rustic charm and naturally rejuvenating surroundings of Puglia’s idyllic Masseria San Domenico (p88). Of course, spring is also a good time to refresh spa menus and plant new seeds of revenue. While pampering and celebration packages will always remain popular, spa guests are now also seeking a deeper level of personalisation, expertise and life-enhancing therapies. In part one of our new Wellbeing 360° series, we bring together a notable panel of spa operators and specialists to reveal more about the growing demand for fasting and gut-health expertise (p56). More inspiration can be found in our Menu section (p45), with significant spring launches including Natural Spa Factory’s ground-breaking Woman:Kind treatments, designed to alleviate menstruation and menopause symptoms. Meanwhile, our Expert Guide: Manicures & Pedicures offers crucial information on nail area design, treatments and products, with expertise from some of the best spa nailcare providers (p78). Last but not least, we meet Irene Forte (p114) to find out more about millennials, building spa revenue across Rocco Forte Hotels’ spa portfolio, and her personal quest to find snow leopards! As ever, we hope you will enjoy this issue and that its content helps your business to blossom. Sarah Camilleri Publisher & founding editor

The Team Publisher & founding editor Sarah Camilleri +44 (0) 115 950 4748 sarah.camilleri@spapublishing.com

Assistant editor Ian Parkes +44 (0) 115 950 4748 ian.parkes@spapublishing.com

Contributing editor Mark Smith +44 (0) 7956 658261 mark.smith@spapublishing.com

Art director Richard Page +44 (0) 7917 646495 richard@spapublishing.com

Contributing editor Sarah Todd +44 (0) 115 950 4748 sarah.todd@spapublishing.com

Subscriptions manager Angela Sharpe +44 (0) 1353 772173 subscribe@spapublishing.com

Production editor David Fagan +44 (0) 115 950 4748 david.fagan@spapublishing.com

Contributing editor Hellena Barnes +44 (0) 115 950 4748 hellena.barnes@spapublishing.com

Accounts manager Julie Jones +44 (0) 115 950 4748 accounts@spapublishing.com

Office address: European Spa magazine, Spa Publishing Ltd, Halifax House, Halifax Place, Nottingham, NG1 1QN, UK. Online & social media: www.europeanspamagazine.com

@eurospamag

/europeanspamagazine

eurospamag

The No.1 business magazine for spa and wellness professionals. Published six times a year by Spa Publishing Ltd, European Spa is an independent, intelligent business title specifically for spa decision makers shaping the wellness market throughout the UK, Europe and beyond. European Spa is printed by Buxton Press on paper sourced from FSC-certified forests.

Spa Publishing Ltd is registered in England. Company No. 6293825

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Contents I SS U E 63 | A P R I L / M AY 2018

Business 17 INDUSTRY NEWS

The latest industry developments, including the completion of Clodagh’s makeover of Six Senses Kaplankaya.

26 FORUM HOTEL & SPA 2018 PREVIEW

A look ahead to the 11th annual event for European hospitality and wellbeing influencers, which takes place on June 7.

28 BEAUTY DÜSSELDORF 2018

The connections made, trends shared and insight offered within the Spa Business Area at one of Europe’s largest shows.

64 THE HEALING SUMMIT 2018

We report from Berlin on two days of inspirational presentations and networking opportunities interspersed with wellness-improving activities.

114 IN CONVERSATION WITH...

IRENE FORTE The group project director of Rocco Forte Hotels discusses the chain’s plans for spa investment and product development.

Spas 32 THE SPA AT FOUR SEASONS HOTEL

70 VAMED VITALITY WORLD, AUSTRIA

Chief operating officer Tom Bauer reveals how the brand’s philosophy is complemented by the individual qualities of each of its nine spa and health resorts.

88 MASSERIA SAN DOMENICO SPA &

THALASSOTHERAPY CENTRE, ITALY Puglia’s first five-star masseria, or farmhouse hotel, has thalassotherapy and the region’s bounty of natural assets at the heart of its offering.

64 88

Expert Guide 78 MANICURES & PEDICURES

Our Expert Guide to the finest nail services looks at all aspects of design, furniture, retail and products, with contributions from CND, Jessica, OPI, B-Line Health & Beauty, BGA Corp, Margaret Dabbs London and Footlogix

The House Spa at Dormy House

LONDON AT TEN TRINITY SQUARE, UK This elegant subterranean bathing spa combines eastern and western design influences to provide high-end spa services in the corporate capital.

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S E AW E E D T R E AT M E N T S | W E L L B E I N G | S U S TA I N A B I L I T Y | O R G A N I C S K I N C A R E

PROFOUND POWERS OF H E A L I N G & R E S T O R AT I O N For over 10 years, VOYA Organic Beauty has set the bar for results-driven, certified organic skincare, worldwide. VOYA is the original seaweed skincare brand that specialises uniquely in using hand-picked wild Irish seaweed to improve your health, skin and beauty. The wild Atlantic coast is from one of the cleanest coastlines in the world. Available exclusively at luxury spas & stockists worldwide.

To become a VOYA partner: Call: +353 (0)71 916 1872 Email: info@voya.ie www.voya.ie

W H AT W E O F F E R : • • • • • •

Inspiring Training Flexible and Bespoke Treatment Menus Marketing and PR Support Retail Training Hotel Amenities Outstanding Customer Service

Contents I SS U E 63 | A P R I L / M AY 2018

42 AROMATHERAPY ASSOCIATES

CEO Tracey Woodward discusses the brand’s commitment to delivering wellness in the workplace through the work of its panel of wellbeing experts.

45 MENU

We profile the best new treatments, including Natura Bissé’s Inhibit Face-Lift and Thalgo’s Body Sculpt Treatment, as well as product launches, such as Elemis Pro-Collagen Overnight Matrix, ClarinsMen Hydra Sculpt Resculpting Perfector and Body & Hair Nourishing Oil from Pevonia.

Wellness 56 WELLBEING 360˚: FASTING FOCUS

We examine one of the fastest growing and most effective trends for health and wellbeing, with experts in various disciplines outlining the advantages and responsibilities for spas.

97 WELLNESS

The latest concepts and developments from the world of wellness, including Anantara’s seven-day, Ayurveda-inspired programmes at its Peace Haven Tangalle resort in Sri Lanka, and an interview with ‘Inner Wealth’ specialist Louise Smart.

56 Renew your subscription today... Published six times a year and packed with quality coverage to inform and inspire, European Spa will keep you up to speed with the latest industry developments and news. To subscribe visit:

Design 104 STYLE

www.europeanspamagazine.com/subscribe

Our pick of the best designs, equipment, furnishings and finishes highlights the Structura and Concrete HI-MACS collections from LG Hausys, and celebrates 100 years of craftsmanship from spa furniture-maker REM.

email: subscribe@spapublishing.com Annual subscription rates (six issues): UK: £65 EU: £85 Rest of world: £110

On the cover: ‘Putting people first’ is the key to happiness and success at Austria’s Vamed Vitality World (p70), which operates a total of nine spas, inlcuding St Martins Therme & Lodge, Seewinkel (pictured)

European Spa magazine is published by Spa Publishing Ltd. The Publisher has taken all reasonable measures to ensure the information detailed in European Spa magazine is correct at the time of going to print, and while every care is taken to avoid inaccuracies the Publisher does not accept responsibility for any errors or omissions from any information within this edition. Views expressed in European Spa are not necessarily those of Spa Publishing Ltd. All rights reserved, reproduction in whole or part without the Publisher’s permission is strictly prohibited. © Spa Publishing Ltd

www.europeanspamagazine.com

“As therapists our self, we care that you care. Putting all our innovation capacities at your service, we are committed to being your #1 partner.”

essential oils

SKINCARE POWERED BY TO TRANSFORM YOUR SKIN AND RECHARGE YOUR BODY & MIND *Aromesence Neroli Amara

News

DEVELOPMENTS

APPOINTMENTS

INVESTMENT

DIARY DATES

EDITED BY SARAH TODD

Clodagh makeover is completed at Six Senses Kaplankaya Luxurious resort and spa on Aegean coast to reopen in May featuring the global debut of the Six Senses Holistic Anti-Ageing Clinic TURKEY: Continuing Six Senses’ deeper expansion

into Europe, the luxurious Six Senses Kaplankaya resort and spa will reopen in May 2018. Located across the bay from Bodrum on the ancient Aegean coast, the 141-bedroom resort and spa has benefitted from a redesign by the eco-conscious studio Clodagh Design. The 10,000sqm spa is one of the most extensive and advanced spa and wellness offerings in the Six Senses global portfolio. Laid out over two floors, the spa, formerly operated by Canyon Ranch, offers 20 treatment rooms, an extensive hydrotherapy area and an indoor Watsu pool. Treatments will use products by Biologique Recherche, Swiss Perfection and ila, while Gharieni has supplied the treatment beds and Technogym has installed a private Kinesis studio. In addition to a comprehensive range of spa, fitness and wellness programmes, there will also be

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a Six Senses Alchemy Bar, where guests can create their own lotions from selected organic ingredients. Speaking about the design concept, Clodagh said: “We enriched the space with warmth, colour and texture, as well as enhancing wellness through design by creating spaces like the Alchemy Bar, where guests can pick from a massive herbal wall and mix the herbs with local oils. “We further infused the property with the

“We enriched the space with more warmth, colour and texture, as well as enhancing wellness through design.” Clodagh

essence of Six Senses by addressing every sense. Feng shui and the wisdom and science of bio-geometry master Alberto Amura have been incorporated throughout, so that crystals, resonance symbols and the curated placement of art unite to heal and balance the body, mind and soul.” The Kaplankaya spa will also be the first in the portfolio to launch a Six Senses Holistic Anti-Ageing Clinic, led by neuroscientist Dr Claudia Aguirre. “We’ll delve deeply into various lifestyle factors – what we eat and drink, our stress levels and hormonal balance – and other parameters such as insulin resistance, the quality of sleep and the toxicity of our body,” said Anna Bjurstam, vice-president of spas and wellness at Six Senses. “It’s an exciting approach to wellness that we expect will really benefit guests.” www.sixsenses.com

Business News

Euphoria team strengthened ahead of opening

News in brief Garrett Mersberger becomes ISPA chairman US: Garrett Mersberger, director of wellness and Kohler Waters Spas at Kohler Co., has become chairman of the board of Garrett Mersberger directors of the International Spa Association (ISPA). Commenting on his appointment, Mersberger said: “Our industry is growing faster than ever. People are looking to ISPA to be the beacon that guides us through change. I hope to use the groundwork laid by past ISPA visionaries and be there for our industry when they need us most.” www.experienceispa.com

GREECE: Two senior appointments have been made to the holistic team at The Euphoria Retreat in the Greek Peloponnese, due to open in June. Award-winning spa mentor and coach Patrizia Bortolin (above left) will direct the four-storey spa, including the planning, design, establishment and enhancement of the spa’s programmes, Marina Efraimoglou retreats and treatments. Stefano Battaglia (above right) will also join the Euphoria team. Specialising in recovery from trauma and emotional shock, Battaglia will offer a range of programmes focusing on mindfulness and meditation.

“We’ve found two people whose thoughts about emotional healing and spiritual transformation are in line with ours,” said Euphoria founder Marina Efraimoglou. “Patrizia and Stefano shape a team of experts who will help us offer high-end spa services at an international level.” As a multiple award-winning spa director and concept designer, Bortolin said she will draw on her rich experience for the new role, and added: “I love Euphoria’s emotional focus, the element of individual freedom in the approach to health and moreover the joyful signature of the project and the place. “We’ll create a fusion of our skills, expertise and inspiration to make the Euphoria lifestyle experience unforgettable.” www.euphoriaretreat.com

UK Spa Association prepares for spring networking UK: The UK Spa Association has revealed further details about its forthcoming Spring Networking Event. Taking place at Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa in Cumbria (pictured), the April 24 event will attract around 150 professionals and combine two session speakers – Danielle Alen and Stu Henshall – with a wide range of networking opportunities. The Northern Spa Directors Assembly will then follow the event from 3pm. As director of spa and hotel at Lifehouse Spa, Alen’s presentation will cover the ways in which her spa’s operation continues to innovate, including more details about the recent news that the Lifehouse Spa will be the first in the UK to be recognised as ‘Dementia Friendly’. Henshall, owner of The Alternative Kitchen, will discuss how ‘eating smart’ could enable spas to deliver a more comprehensive wellness offering. General manager of the UK Spa Association, Helena Field, said: “This is a great opportunity to build relationships, collaborate with peers and see what’s new in the industry.” www.spa-uk.org

GOCO Spa Daios Cove to offer Cretan-inspired menu GREECE: Daios Cove Luxury Resorts and Villas in Crete is to reopen its facility as a GOCO Spa on April 15. Featuring eight treatment rooms, including two private spa suites, the Cretan-inspired treatments will use 111Skin and Anne Semonin products, and combine eastern and western philosophies to create a ‘tailored journey to health, relaxation and wellbeing’. www.daioscovecrete.com www.gocohospitality.com

CIDESCO standardises Spa Therapy qualifications GLOBAL: CIDESCO has announced that its Spa Therapy Syllabus and Beauty Therapy Syllabus are now in line with the Scottish Credit Qualifications Framework (SCQF) at Level 7/8, which corresponds to the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) at Level 5. The components of each qualification are said to have been officially certified. Speaking to European Spa about the new developments, CIDESCO International president Anna-Cari Gund said: “We’re absolutely delighted to be mapped and leveled by SCQF and EQF. “This enables our international members to map their qualification levels to their national standards, ensuring they have received the highest standards of training in beauty and spa therapy.” www.cidesco.com

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Business News

Chenot Group reimagines flagship hotel

SWITZERLAND: The Chenot Group, renowned for its integrated approach to wellness, is to launch a new flagship property in the Swiss village of Weggis, on Lake Lucerne. Scheduled to open late in 2019, The Chenot Palace Health Wellness Hotel Weggis, designed by Davide Macullo Architects, will George Gaitanos reimagine the existing hotel, which was specifically acquired for the project. The building will house the business headquarters of The Chenot Group and a medical wellness facility, as well as a medical research and training centre.

Bunyan plans strategy innovation for Finders UK: Kate Bunyan has become the new managing director of leading professional spa supplier Finders International. Previously the brand’s marketing director, Bunyan will take responsibility for the company’s Kate Bunyan international strategic growth, whose product portfolio includes Dead Sea Spa Magik, Spa Magik Organiks and Spa Find Skincare. Bunyan’s father, founder and former managing director, Robert Czik, will now serve as chairman. “The next 12 months will see the launch of a strategy designed to disrupt the traditional spa model and draw attention to independent challenger brands like us,” said Bunyan. “We also have lots of exciting product and treatment innovations in the pipeline.” www.findersbrands.com

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Comprising 97 hotel rooms and a 5,000sqm spa with 100 rooms across aesthetic, hydro and medical departments, facilities will include a gym, a lakeview swimming pool, a sauna and a steam bath, an advanced altitude room and a cryotherapy facility. Speaking exclusively to European Spa, George Gaitanos, chief operating officer and scientific director of Chenot Group said: “Chenot Palace Health Wellness Hotel Weggis will become the flagship of the group and the global office for Chenot. Chenot Palace Marbella is due to open in 2022 and we are also investigating the UK for locations as it is an important market for us.” www.chenot.com

McCann to head up Lanserhof UK team UK: Leading health resort group Lanserhof has appointed Sheila McCann as its UK general manager. With more than 35 years in the spa and wellness sector, most recently as general manager of ChivaSom in Thailand, McCann’s wealth of experience will Sheila McCann inform her leadership of Lanserhof’s two major new UK developments: Lanserhof at The Arts Club in London and the restructuring of Lanserhof’s first investment in the UK, the Grayshott Health Spa in Surrey. Dr Christian Harisch, Lanserhof’s CEO, said: “We’re very pleased that we’ve been able to recruit such an experienced and distinguished manager for the Lanserhof Group.” Sheila McCann added: “Health and wellness has been the focus of my interest since my youth and Lanserhof UK is a truly unique opportunity for me. For the next few months, I will be focusing a lot of my time on talent spotting and recruitment for both properties. In both cases, we will be seeking the very best people with passion, heart and high levels of technical competence.” www.lanserhof.com

World Spa and Wellness Award winners revealed

GLOBAL: The winners of the 2018 World Spa and Wellness Awards have been revealed during a black-tie dinner at London’s Tobacco Dock. Launched in 2012, the awards honour hotel and resort spas in five regions: Western Europe and Scandinavia; Eastern Europe; Middle East and Africa; North and South America; and Asia and Australasia. For the second year running, Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary and Holistic Spa in Koh Samui, Thailand, was recognised as the Worldwide Health & Wellness Destination of the Year. Collecting the award, John Stewart (above on right) said: “It’s really extraordinary to win this award twice.

My team is unbelievable and we are helping to set the industry standard.” Other European winners included Palanga Spa at Hotel Palanga Spa, Lithuania, which won Hotel Spa of the Year for Eastern Europe, and the Dior Institut at Hotel Plaza Athénée in Paris, for Hotel Spa of the Year, Western Europe and Scandinavia. Hébe Spa at Columbia Beach Resort, Limassol, Cyprus, scooped the prize for Eastern Europe Resort Spa of the Year, while The Thermal Village and Spa at Galgorm, Ballymena, UK, claimed the Western Europe and Scandinavia Resort Spa of the Year. www.worldspawellness.com/site/awards

Business News

Ashford Castle in partnership with Natura Bissé

SPAIN/IRELAND: As part of the expansion of its spa portfolio, leading professional skincare brand Natura Bissé has announced two new partnerships at Ashford Castle (pictured) and the K Club in County Kildare. Marking the brand’s debut into the Irish market, Natura Bissé created a signature treatment for its Ashford Castle partnership, called the Ashford Castle Diamond Life Experience. Sali Flores, managing director of Natura Bissé said of the launch: “We are delighted to be partnering with Ashford Castle for our first opening in Ireland as the synergy between our two brands is perfect.” The K Club Hotel and resort is the second spa in

Ireland to feature Natura Bissé and will incorporate products from the brand’s Diamond, Inhibit, The Cure, C+C Vitamin and NB·Ceutical Collections, as well as offering several exclusive treatments. Natura Bissé has undertaken an ambitious European spa growth plan which has seen the brand build its portfolio to 37 hotel spa partnerships and 150 day spa partnerships in Europe. Currently distributing its products in 11 countries through 250 points of sale in both retail channels and spas, the brand is expecting to finish 2018 with almost 400 points of sale in Europe. www.naturabisse.com

Time for learning at The Susan Gerrard Beauty Academy UK: A new training academy is to open in April, in Hertfordshire, from the team behind multi-award winning professional supplier Gerrard International. The Susan Gerrard Beauty Academy will Susan Gerrard offer VTCT-recognised and certified courses in beauty therapy treatments, including manicures, pedicures, facials, waxing, lash and brow treatments and makeup, as well as health and safety, and client care. Students will also receive a range of additional benefits, including Jessica GELeration training, Brow by Mii industry training and a student discount to build their professional kit. Speaking exclusively to European Spa about the launch of the academy, Susan Gerrard said: “With the Academy, I wanted to incorporate everything our students need to enter the beauty therapy industry with absolute confidence in their skills. “Understanding that some training institutions don’t have the luxury of time or the budget to teach their students advanced technical skills and homecare advice, we shall be devoting time to make sure that our students go into the industry fully prepared and with greater confidence in themselves.” www.gerrardinternational.com

Wellness Tourism Association launches to benefit businesses and consumers GLOBAL: A group of wellness industry experts have joined forces to create the Wellness Tourism Association (WTA). A not-for-profit, privately-held organisation, the WTA aims to serve the booming wellness tourism industry, which, according to the Global Wellness Institute’s 2017 Global Wellness Economy Monitor, is now worth $563bn (£404bn, E458bn). The association will become a network for qualifying members of the wellness tourism industry and its objectives Andrew Gibson will include educating consumers to recognise legitimate and credible wellness suppliers and operators. Among the founding members are: Tom Klein, president and COO of Canyon Ranch; Anne Dimon, founder of TravelToWellness.com; and Nilendu Srivastava, managing director of The Art of Living Retreat Center in North Carolina, US (pictured right). They are joined by WTA’s co-founder and chairman Andrew Gibson, vice-president of wellbeing at Accor Hotels. Speaking exclusively to European Spa, Gibson said: “We have formed WTA to become the voice of wellness tourism. Our spa members will benefit by learning how to bring wellness into their operation in a really impactful way, as well as networking with wellness leaders worldwide and gaining insights from the best in the business.” www.wellnesstourismassociation.org

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Business News

Finishing touches made to The Langley boutique hotel and spa UK: A luxury new spa is to open at The Langley in Buckinghamshire in summer 2018. Set in the Duke of Marlborough’s former Langley Park country estate, The Langley has undergone a four-year renovation to transform it into a 41-bedroom boutique hotel and spa. The 1,600sqm Langley Spa will include five expansive treatment rooms, a VIP suite, manicure and pedicure studios, thermal areas and indoor and outdoor swimming pools. Consultancy was provided by leading spa group SMC Leisure, while Gibberd Architects and Veretech were responsible for the spa’s architecture, and Dennis Irvine Studio created its interior design. All thermal experiences and pools are the work of Aqua Platinum, while Gharieni has supplied treatment couches, trollies and stools. Lighting design was provided by dpa Lighting Consultants, with bespoke wall lights from Art et Floritude, and pendant and wall lights from Dernier & Hamlyn, while Coco Wolf’s striking furniture also features in the spa’s exterior areas. The Langley Spa will also be home to a fitness centre led by personal trainer and fitness author Matt Roberts, which will boast technologically advanced equipment including a Cryotherapy Centre. “The spa at The Langley will offer the epitome of luxury to our guests and members,” said spa director Alex James. “We are partnering with brands that will support us in creating treatments to deliver the very best experience in The Langley’s beautiful surroundings, offering privacy and opulence for the most discerning client.” Owned and managed by City & Country Hotels, The Langley is a franchised hotel that will be part of Marriott’s The Luxury Collection – its fourth hotel in England – and will join its sister hotels The Wellesley, Knightsbridge, The Park Tower, Knightsbridge, and The Westbury, Mayfair, all in London. www.thelangley.com

Lime Wood’s Herb House Spa to host Kamalaya pop-up event THAILAND/UK: A unique collaboration in May will join together Kamalaya Wellness Sanctuary and Holistic Spa in Koh Samui, Thailand, and Herb House Spa at Lime Wood in the UK’s New Forest. With both spas drawing inspiration from their ancient forest surroundings and exhibiting a dedication to natural wellbeing, the idea for a retreat partnership came about following repeated visits by Lime Wood Group’s CEO, Robin Hutson, to Kamalaya, during which he sensed a ‘deep synergistic understanding’ between the two. Designed to give Herb House guests ‘A taste of Kamalaya’, the latter’s founders John and Karina Stewart, and a selection of their top therapists and mentors, will take up residency at Herb House from May 20-25 for a series of two-day retreats focused on delivering an ‘empowering holistic experience’ to attendees. Each retreat will combine treatments and therapies, meditation, yoga, healthy food, personal mentoring, a cooking class and luxury accommodation. www.limewood.co.uk | www.kamalaya.com

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Sea-view treatments at new Cypriot spa

CYPRUS: Billed as offering ‘a unique combination of spa and wellness’, the Kalloni Spa within the E120 million (£106 million) Parklane resort development in Cyprus is on schedule to open in September 2018. Situated in 25 acres of landscaped tropical gardens on 300m of beachfront in the city of Limassol, the comprehensive 3,000sqm spa was designed by local architectural firm LAD Architects. Offering 14 treatment rooms, two of which will be al fresco with Mediterranean Sea views, other facilities will include two outdoor and indoor seawater pools. Thalassotherapy will form the basis

of the spa’s treatment menu and Stas Doyer has supplied the thalasso pools and hydrobaths. There will also be three private suites – two with a Russian Banya experience, supplied by KLAFS, who also provided the saunas and steamrooms. Symmetria treatments will be offered and Parklane has also partnered with Biologique Recherche and Voya. The spa will feature a barbershop with products by Gentlemen’s Tonic as well as a Carol Joy hair salon. RKF has tailor-made all the spa linen, while Gharieni has been chosen to supply the treatment beds throughout the spa. www.parklanecyprus.com

Business News

Griffiths joins Decléor and Carita

Decléor ambassador Nichola Joss

UK: Liz Griffiths has

been named as the new general manager of luxury professional skincare brands Decléor and Carita. With more than 15 years’ experience, including nine with Liz Griffiths L’Oréal and Proctor & Gamble, Griffiths brings considerable beauty expertise to her new role. Speaking exclusively to European Spa, Griffiths outlined the opportunities ahead for both brands: “Beauty has always been my passion and I’m delighted to join Decléor and Carita. Decléor has huge brand heritage and is well-positioned in the natural skincare category thanks to its

high concentration of essential oils and the positioning it has in spas. Carita is our ultra-luxurious brand for elite spas and we have a series of innovative launches planned across 2018.” Decléor has also entered into a partnership with Nichola Joss, who will become the brand’s ambassador. “We’re delighted to be working with Nichola,” Griffiths added. “She is a skincare visionary who brings a wealth of legacy to Decléor with her celebrity clientele, which includes Scarlett Johansson, Gisele Bundchen and Meghan Markle. We believe this partnership will elevate the professional standing of our brand as well as bringing increased recognition of self-care for women.” www.decleor.co.uk

Growth plan for Massage Envy

GLOBAL: Spa franchise company Massage Envy has unveiled ambitious

expansion plans. Founded in 2002, the company that specialises in the delivery of high quality, professional therapeutic massage and skincare services, currently has nearly 1,200 franchise locations and 1.65 million members in the US alone. It recently announced $1.3bn (£0.93bn, E1.05bn) sales in 2017. ‘Master franchisees’ are now being sought in ‘priority target markets’ including the UK, Germany, Japan and other ‘advanced economies’ in Europe. The master franchisee would open the first Massage Envy location and adapt the business to the respective local market. In addition, they would function as the country headquarters. In a European Spa exclusive, Joe Magnacca, CEO of Massage Envy, said: “Across Europe, we’re seeing the kind of trends that fuelled our expansion in the US – a large, fast-growing wellness category and a rising demand for quality, accessible services and products. To answer that demand, we’re pursuing a thoughtful international expansion strategy that’s built on large-scale franchise relationships with strong in-country investors and operators.” www.massageenvy.com

eforea Spa at Hilton Lake Como property marks its debut for region ITALY: Hilton Worldwide has partnered with owning company The

Limonta Group to launch a luxury new spa hotel on Lake Como. Marking Hilton’s first property in the region, the 170-bedroom hotel includes a 700sqm eforea Spa and Health Club with a range of facilities, including treatment rooms, a hydro/vitality pool and thermal experiences supplied by Starpool. Designed by Monica Limonta and Dario Cazzaniga alongside Jeremy Whyntie from Hilton, the spa will exclusively use Elemis products. Nilo has supplied bespoke treatment couches Louise Moore throughout the property. Commenting on the eforea spa’s launch, Louise Moore, Hilton’s director of spa operations and development, Europe, said: “The property will deliver Hilton’s signature hospitality to this renowned destination with its awe-inspiring lake views. As the first eforea spa on Lake Como, guests will be able to experience the ultimate in relaxation.” www.hilton.com

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Lefay’s Dolomiti resort to reflect ‘Italian spirit’

Diary dates Spa Life International (Germany)

May 14-16, 2018 Gesundheitsresort Freiburg, Germany A high-energy event that includes the Spa Life Forum, a conference, and a supplier showcase and expo. www.spa-life.international

Forum HOTel & Spa

ITALY: Lefay Resorts has begun construction work on a second property in the Dolomites. The Lefay Resort and SPA Dolomiti will be built in Pinzolo, in the ski area of Madonna di Campiglio, and has an estimated opening date of summer 2019. Featuring a 5,000sqm spa, making it one of the largest spas in the Alpine region, the new resort will also feature 84 suites, two restaurants, and 25 Lefay Wellness Residences, a brand new project representing what it refers to as a ‘reinterpretation of the traditional property ownership model’. Consistent with the group’s commitment to sustainability, the resort will be designed to ‘perfectly blend’ into the surrounding landscape. Interiors will reference local traditional architecture, using elements including stone, wood and simple finishing touches. The property will also be certified by ClimaHotel and supplied with renewable energy sources, controlled by advanced electrical, thermic and hydric systems. “With Lefay Resort & SPA Dolomiti, the brand strengthens its identity, characterised by a holistic

June 7, 2018 Four Seasons Georges V Hotel, Paris This one-day occasion attracts a wealth of European spa, hospitality and wellbeing influencers to share their knowledge and discuss new business concepts. www.forumhotspa.com

Spa Life International (Ireland) June 18-19, 2018 Johnstown Estate Hotel & Spa, Co. Meath, Ireland The second Ireland event combines a conference and meetings’ forum for networking opportunities. www.spa-life.international

wellbeing philosophy,” said Liliana Leali, Lefay Resorts’ CEO. “Sustainability, the Italian spirit and a unique wellness method are the core values of the Lefay collection and, in 2019, they will also be found in one of the most fascinating mountain destinations in Italy. “We are very excited about this opening and ready to face a new challenge, with the certainty that it will also be an opportunity for new projects and resources within the local community.” www.lefayresorts.com

Estonia highlights diversity on Spa Trail map ESTONIA: As part of celebrations to mark the country’s 100th year of indepenence, Estonia has launched a ‘Spa Trail’ to encourage visitors to enjoy the country’s wellness heritage. A map has been created to highlight the range of experiences on offer across five spa categories: city; wellness; eco; sauna; and sauna centres. Facilities showcased in the capital city of Tallinn include the 19th century Telegraaf Hotel’s Elemis Spa and The Eforea Spa at Hilton Tallinn Park. In the country’s second largest city, Tartu, Dorsat Spa provides a leech therapist who performs treatments designed to help increase blood circulation. Among the wellness spas, The Georg Ots Spa Hotel on the island of Saaremaa, boasts its own KENA range of products that use local ingredients such as red seawood, sage and juniper. The Organic Spa Harmoonikum is Estonia’s first beer spa, featuring wood-burning steam saunas and

June 20-23, 2018 Mövenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi, Marrakech, Morocco Held for the first time outside Europe, this innovative event brings together European spa buyers and an exclusive selection of suppliers for face-to-face meetings and international speaker sessions. www.spateceu.com

SpaFest

September 21-22, 2018 Atlantic Hotel, Newquay, UK With a diverse range of speakers, this is a meaningful gathering for those running the wellness industry to discuss people, the planet and health. www.spafest.co.uk

Global Wellness Summit vitamin B-enriched craft beer baths that help with skin regeneration. In addition, traditional smoke saunas, as featured on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list, can be found at Mooska Farm. www.visitestonia.com

Share your appointments, announcements, launches and diary dates with Sarah Todd by calling +44 (0) 115 950 4748 or email sarah.todd@spapublishing.com

SPATEC Europe

October 6-8, 2018 Technogym, Italy The 12th GWS returns to Europe, to Technogym’s headquarters, uniting leaders, influencers and visionaries to positively impact and shape the future of the global wellness industry with interactive sessions and panel-led discussions. www.globalwellnesssummit.com

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SPATEC 18 Europe

20-23 June 2018 Movenpick Hotel Mansour Eddahbi, Marrakech, Morocco What do you get at SPATEC? • Guaranteed pre-qualified audience of key decision makers • Pre-set appointments with buyers of your choice • Limited competition • 2 full days of exceptional networking • Unparalleled value for money • High quality seminar programme

Your best marketing spend this year! For more information contact: Stephen Pace-Bonello, Event Director spacebonello@questex.com Tel: +356 99458305

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Business Preview: Forum HOTel & Spa 2017

A new era in wellness Ahead of this year’s eagerly-anticipated Forum HOTel & Spa event, which takes place on June 7 in Paris, we speak to organiser Vladi Kovanic to find out what delegates can expect

Offering spa industry insight, the latest product innovations and extensive networking opportunities across one packed day, the 11th annual Forum HOTel & Spa will take place on June 7 at the Four Seasons Hotel George V in Paris. Vladi Kovanic The event will again culminate in the Black and Blue Diamond Awards being bestowed upon an outstanding hotel spa professional and a superlative thalassotherapy practitioner. Last year, the Forum attracted 150 of Europe’s leading spa, hospitality and wellbeing influencers, so we asked event organiser Vladi Kovanic what delegates can expect from the 2018 gathering. What inspired this year’s theme? We’ve chosen ‘A new era in wellness’ as our theme because wellness and wellbeing are such hot topics. This really is a multi-dimensional phenomenon and we’ll be exploring all aspects of it with expert contributions from a host of international industry leaders. We’re very proud that the Forum acts as a bridge between what we consider to be the three pillars of wellness – spa, thalassotherapy and thermalism – and brings together owners, investors and spa directors. What topics are on the agenda for 2018? We’ll be welcoming Roger Allen, CEO of Resources for Leisure Assets, and Martin Rhomberg, regional vice-president and general manager of Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues Switzerland, who will explore the economics of wellbeing in luxury hotels. I’m also keen to hear Thomas Bauer, chief operating officer of Vamed Vitality World (see p70), who will be taking us ‘Back to the Future’. Who else are you excited to hear speak? Didier le Calvez, vice-president of Ré-Consulting, will share his experience of sylvotherapy, a fascinating therapeutic practice

Clockwise from top: A networking session at last year’s Forum HOTel & Spa; 2017 speaker Roger Allen of Resources for Leisure Assets; last year’s Diamond Award winners and presenters

that is said to improve the wellbeing of both the body and mind by making contact with the natural energy vibrations emitted by trees. Are there any special new topics delegates can look forward to? For the first time on our speaker agenda we have Moscow’s renowned Dr Leonid A. Elkin, who will share his experience of creating the ‘Elkin Method’ of restoring vitality. This will undoubtedly provide an interesting and unique take on health and wellness.

What aspect of the event would you say gives you the most satisfation? We’re very proud of our Black Diamond Award winners for the best spa manager. Last year, at our 10th event, it was awarded to the UK’s Zoe Douglas at Dormy House for her tremendous work on the promotion of mental health and happiness. And, of course, we are developing the Blue Diamond Award for the best personality from the thalassotherapy industry. To get involved with this year’s Forum HOTel & Spa, taking place on June 7 at the Four Seasons Hotel George V in Paris, France, visit: www.forumhotspa.com

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Spa Life Germany Freiburg th 14 - 16th May 2018

Spa Life Ireland Dublin th 18 - 19th June 2018

Spa Life UK Birmingham th 13 - 14th November 2018

Spa Life International is now Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest spa-dedicated event, exclusively for senior spa professionals We connect spa operators, consultants & suppliers from across the globe and from every sector of the industry, providing an unparalleled combination of exposure to new product innovations; shared industry insights; extensive networking opportunities; and quality management education.

For bookings and information visit www.spa-life.international or call +44 (0) 1268 745892

ÂŠ map: Thacchuck; pictures: 123RF/michaeljung, itzybitzy, goodluz, auremar, dotshock; shutterstockPressmaster, pikselstock, RobSimonART, ASDF Media, Opolja

Get Connected!

Business Report: Beauty Düsseldorf 2018

Getting down to business Europe’s leading spa and wellness brands presented their latest innovations in The Spa Business Area at this year’s Beauty Düsseldorf R EP OR T BY M A R K S M I T H

ccording to the Global Wellness Institute Economy Monitor, Germany ranks third in the world spa market, behind the US and China; with 6,488 locations and annual revenues of $5.95 billion (£4.2 billion/c4.8 billion) it is a dominant player on the world stage and has a long, rich wellness history. The highlight of the country’s spa and wellness calendar, Beauty Düsseldorf is one of the largest exhibitions of its kind in Europe, and this year’s show, held at the purpose-built Messe Düsseldorf, provided a showcase for 1,500 exhibitors to impress more than 55,000 visitors from 77 countries. European Spa is a proud media partner of the event and works with the organisers to promote the show each year, helping brands such as Babor, Thalgo, Gharieni, Sothys, Jessica, CND and [comfort zone] to gain valuable exposure. This year, the Spa Business Area, which incorporates an exhibition space, meeting areas and a dedicated speaker stage, provided the perfect platform for brands and experts from the world of spa and wellness to share their latest launches with an international audience. “The Spa Business Communications Lounge helps spa managers and other decision-makers to connect,” explained spa consultant and event organiser, Sylvia Glückert. “The Spa & Wellness Meeting Point helps them to catch up on the business economy, trends and spa management, while the exhibition area allows them to find new products, equipment and treatments.”

insight into the planning, preparation and challenges that he had faced opening the new Ösch Spa, while Irena Staudenmaier, spa director at the Bürgenstock Resort in Switzerland, offered delegates information about how following best practices can result in a celebrated and successful spa opening. There was also a special demonstration of the new Matrix Massage, which combines deep relaxation and massage movements with mobilisation techniques.

A packed agenda

Celebrating excellence

As well as the Wellness & Spa Innovation Awards ceremony, the meeting point offered seminars and presentations on design, trends and treatments, with speakers including Raoul Kroehl, manager of Spa eMotion, who discussed the crisis in recruitment, demonstrating how generational change has impacted spa operations and offering tips on recruitment and retention. Joram Schirmaier, manager of Germany’s Öschberghof resort, provided some valuable

Glückert said the event aimed to highlight some of the universal themes that are reflected in spa operations around the world as they strive to achieve excellence. “The German-speaking spa and wellness market is very stable and still growing,” she enthused. “We had 31 million spa and wellness guests in 2017. This makes it the largest market in Europe. “However, of course, there are still many challenges.

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“One of the biggest problems we are facing, which is a common one, is a shortage of qualified therapists. Spas have to try to find creative ways to find and keep their best staff.” Echoing this sentiment, the 10 finalists vying to be named Spa Manager of the Year presented a discussion about the opportunities and challenges they faced. A co-operation between Messe Düsseldorf and the German Wellness Association, the award recognises exceptional personal qualities and special achievements in the spa field. In conclusion, Maren Brandt, corporate spa manager at Schloss Spa and Fleesensee SpaWorld, proudly took home the show’s ultimate accolade. www.beauty-duesseldorf.com 1. Beauty Düsseldorf is one of the largest exhibitions of its kind in Europe, with over 55,000 visitors 2. The Spa & Wellness Meeting Point provided a platform for speakers to share the latest trends 3. Visitors learn about the latest skincare developments 4. A massage demonstration at The Spa & Wellness Meeting Point 5. Brand partners see Babor’s new spa treatments in action 6. Finalists in the Spa Manager of the Year Award, with winner Maren Brandt in the centre 7. Delegates enjoy an engaging presentation

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Spa The Spa at Ten Trinity Square, UK

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Spa The Spa at Ten Trinity Square, UK

A gold & silver lining Once the home of the Port of London Authority, the Edwardian splendour of The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel at Ten Trinity Square now boasts French flair and Japanese style. European Spa heads inside to escape from the city

R EP OR T BY I A N PA R KES

t is now almost a century ago that former Prime Minister David Lloyd George formally opened the grandiose building that is Ten Trinity Square. Sited opposite the Tower of London, and with Tower Bridge in the background, Ten Trinity Square formerly served as the Port of London Authority’s imposing, Beaux-Arts headquarters for more than 50 years. The Edwardian Grade II-listed building, which was badly damaged during the Second World War and not renovated until the 1970s, is now in the hands of Thai-Chinese property development company, the Reignwood Group, run by billionaire Chanchai Ruayrungruang, whose portfolio includes the UK’s renowned Wentworth golf course. Purchased in 2010, a multi-million-pound redevelopment commenced a year later, overseen by London-based architects Aukett Swanke and construction company Ardmore, and taking six years to complete, primarily for archaeological reasons as numerous Roman artefacts were discovered during excavation work to strengthen the original foundations. Inside the vaulted portico entrance, guarded by four Corinthian columns and with a colossal sculpture of Father Thames sitting high up in a tower that stands atop the building, there now resides a 100-room hotel and an antique bathing parlour-inspired spa, overseen by Four Seasons, along with 41 private apartments and a private members’ club.

The shimmering subterranean pool at Ten Trinity Square, with the vitality pool and a neck massager in the background

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An underground city escape Ten Trinity’s subterranean 1,680sqm spa is a sophisticated west-meets-east infusion of French contemporary elegance from Joseph Caspari, and intricate Japanese styling from Mio Shibuya, the Paris-based architects and designers who collaborated on the project, providing guests with a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. “We wanted to create a harmonious space where our guests could escape from the busy city and feel truly relaxed,” says Andre Buldini, Ten Trinity Square’s director of rooms. “Given our location, we needed a spa that would cater not only for our hotel guests but also the businessmen and women based in the local area, providing an elegant and refined atmosphere in terms of design and service.” There is certainly a ‘wow’ factor about the spa. What the area lacks in natural light, given its lower-ground-floor city location, is more than compensated for by the vivacity of the oval-shaped reception that greets a guest upon arrival. What immediately strikes visitors is the floor-to-ceiling golden mosaic that sweeps along the walls of the entire space, adding a lustre to the retail area housed within it. The wet and thermal area is a natural hub, with specialist engineering design by UK-based Devin Consulting. Situated beneath the peristyle of the building is a 14m swimming pool and a vitality pool, supplied by Neuman Aqua, with the latter including two body loungers, a reflexology station, body jets and a neck massager. Barr + Wray installed the sauna and a steam room that sit at either end, while two of the corners feature relaxation rooms.

Spa The Spa at Ten Trinity Square, UK

This space is dominated by four monolithic square columns encased in Zebrino marble and overlaid with a silver mosaic of vegetal motifs. “Mio and I turned the lack of natural light to our advantage,” explains Caspari. “We provided the guests entering the spa a sensorial experience by using the gold and silver mosaics. “While designing the spa, I was initially inspired by the history and scale of the building. Its neo-classical architecture offered guidelines that allowed me to suggest to a guest that the spa is a continuity of the original building, that it has always been there. “Capturing the spirit of antique bathing parlours, I have tried to embody a sense of restfulness and purity, with clean lines, noble materials, and the silver motifs. I believe there is a timeless character to this whole setting.” Expanding on Caspari’s description, Shibuya adds: “The creation of the spa was intended to encapsulate a space far removed from ordinary life – to offer guests a feeling of entering into a relaxing cocoon. There is this surreal effect,

“The spa may be below ground, but it is light and bright and once people see it, they are wowed. The design is really beautiful.” Anjana Nicolas Spa director

Clockwise from top left: A sweeping golden mosaic welcomes guests in the spa reception area; the exquisite 14m indoor pool supplied by Neuman Aqua; the vitality pool, complete with body loungers, a reflexology station, body jets and a neck massager; the imperious facade of Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square

hopefully providing something unique they will not have previously experienced, but also done in an elegant way that reflects the image of Four Seasons hotels and resorts.” Caspari describes his design duet with Shibuya as “like playing piano with four hands.” He adds: “Considering our origins, she brought the east and I the west. While the project was conceived together, Mio added Japanese sensibility that can be seen in every element of the spa.”

Fine-tuning luxury Spa director Anjana Nicolas, who worked with numerous brands in the hotel industry before joining Four Seasons, feels something spectacular has been created from what was nothing more than “a shell” when she first arrived in 2016. “Where Four Seasons is very strong is that there was a good hotel marketing plan in place. There was also a strong strategy that helped conceptualise the spa,” reveals Nicolas. “The spa may be below ground, but it is light and bright and once people see it, they are wowed. You only have to open the doors to the swimming pool and any doubts they may have had are blown away. The design is really beautiful. It is sober, luxurious and very well done.” After the spa opened last May, the focus for Nicolas for the remainder of that year was on what she calls ‘fine tuning’. In particular, this was due to

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Spa The Spa at Ten Trinity Square, UK Going underground The constraints posed by Ten Trinity Square’s subterranean spa were a challenge for all concerned in its creation, particularly for UK-based Devin Consulting, the pool and spa specialist consulting engineers. Devin provided the engineering design on the swimming pool tanks, the pool water treatment, the hydro pool water and air features, as well as the sauna, steam rooms, and hammam. Tom Devin Despite the construction challenges, the end result is described by managing director Tom Devin as a ‘joy’. “While we provided the engineering designs to make the spa facilities work, having Joseph Caspari and Mio Shibuya on the team was a dream,” says Devin. “The spaces they created, and the finishes and lighting they detailed have made for a truly special spa. I believe we have done justice to the building,” he adds. Explaining the obstacles encountered during the initial design stages, Devin recalls: “I can clearly remember, in the early days, walking with the design team through the bowels of a beautiful, but almost derelict building. “As the floor-to-ceiling heights were fixed, and in some cases quite low, some of the plant needed to be specially designed to fit. The extensive basement areas, however, were a Godsend as they facilitated the large amounts of servicing required. “We then chose two experienced companies for the installation of the various facilities in Barr + Wray and Neuman Aqua.”

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Spa The Spa at Ten Trinity Square, UK From top: Stunning white marble and pearl glass mosaic tiles in the hammam; products from Dr Burgener, Amala, ESPA and marocMaroc line the curved walls of the reception area; fitness equipment from Matrix, Hammer Strength, Life Fitness and Woodway completes the spa’s gym

the selection of four product partners, namely Dr Burgener, Amala, ESPA and marocMaroc, and the education that was necessary in order to deliver their treatment protocols to the highest standards. “With around 40 treatments on the menu, and as London has a high turnover of therapists, there was a lot of training, so everything took a bit of time,” says Nicolas. “In terms of business, the focus for a number of spas is on providing massage treatments. Traditionally, that receives the highest number of requests,” she continues. “However, we want to be more focused on facials, body treatments and hammam, which is a very exclusive product. Our competitors do have hammams, but nothing like ours. “So, from our launch through to December, there was lots to sort out – getting the products ready, the team ready. This year, our focus will be on further enhancing the business.”

A hammam haven Leading off from the reception area are eight treatment rooms. These include a couples’ suite; a gym, with equipment supplied by Matrix, Hammer Strength, Life Fitness and Woodway; a yoga suite; a manicure and pedicure suite, with products from OPI; and what Nicolas considers to be the jewel in the spa’s crown, the hammam. Again, the collaboration between Caspari and Shibuya shines through, with the hammam reflecting a traditional Turkish bath – its central bellystone and curved seating areas made from white marble, while the walls and domed ceiling are covered with a stunning pearl glass mosaic. The hammam, while available to day guests and members, can also be accessed exclusively by those enjoying the couples’ suite, which has its own steam room and private changing area. Like the other treatment rooms, decoration involves dark wood flooring and panelling leading up to an oval domed ceiling. “Alongside the swimming pool facilities, I would suggest the hammam is our USP. It is such a plus to have a space like that, in particular given our central London location,” enthuses Nicolas. There are three specific treatments related to the hammam, including an Ultimate Sensory Journey for Two from marocMaroc, which incorporates a deep black soap scrub, followed by Miel d’Ambre scrub and bathing ritual, and concluding with a massage.

“While designing the spa, I was initially inspired by the history and scale of the building. I believe there is a timeless character to this whole setting.” Joseph Caspari Architect and designer

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Spa The Spa at Ten Trinity Square, UK

Clockwise from above: The couples treatment suite provides seclusion and privacy; a chic east-meets-west vibe echoes throughout the spa; nail service excellence is provided courtesy of OPI

Perfect partners Among the variety of other treatments on offer from an extensive menu is a Swiss Age Perfecting Jewel facial from Dr. Burgener, utilising a bamboo-infused scrub, and the Ultimate LifeStage Facial, which involves ESPA’s LifeStage product range. Amala further provides a signature Harmonising Detoxifying Ritual that includes a massage and warm body mask incorporating dried Indian Rassoul clay and silky body butter. Describing the variety and combination of product partners on offer, Nicolas says: “Dr. Burgener is a great partnership, with a lady (Dr. Pauline Burgener) who works from the heart. Looking at the positioning of our hotel, we wanted a brand that was niche and could offer exclusivity, which is not very common in London. “It was the same with Amala, another very

“We aim to be the leading provider of spa and wellness services for the local market.” Andre Buldini Director of rooms, Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square

good selection, which is again niche and also organic – these are brands that are genuine and can grow gradually with us. “I was introduced to marocMaroc when I worked at the Royal Mansour hotel in Marrakech. The brand was conceived for the launch of that beautiful hotel, so for me, there was a touch of nostalgia in bringing them on board as they recall a sense of Morocco, with its authenticity and exotic touch. “ESPA, I’ve known for more than 20 years. Their strength is in providing good technical training. For marketing, you cannot beat them because they are so well known, and I really do like their LifeStage Facial, which is beautifully done. “I’m very happy and comfortable with the whole combination of these brands. They are distinctive and provide memorable treatments.”

Business first As part of a wide-ranging business plan, the spa launched its membership model in January, offering a simple range of packages for leisure and corporate guests, individuals and couples, and either for a full week, or Monday to Friday, while there are also day passes available. Given its location and its numerous competitors located within a short radius, Ten Trinity Square is aware it has to stand out in a congested maketplace. “We have done quite a bit of social media marketing and website enhancements, offering lots of packages for local markets,” states Nicolas. “As we are in a corporate area we want to attract a high percentage of male guests. We were expecting the male-to-female ratio to be 80:20, but the reality is we are 50:50.

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Spa The Spa at Ten Trinity Square, UK

Above from left: The classical pool entrance at The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel London at Ten Trinity Square; flowing lines envelop guests as they enter the sauna, which was specified by Devin Consulting and supplied by Barr + Wray

“That’s not disrupting our strategy, however. We still want to make sure our male guests are aware that our spa is for them, too, which is why we have introduced a whole section for the male market, entitled ‘The Ten Trinity Man’. “Aside from that, we have short treatments we can enhance for our Monday-to-Friday clients, while at weekends we have our leisure guests. At the moment we have built up a database of 500 local users, which is good for year one.” The business strategy is fluid, however, as Ten Trinity Square finds its feet in the London spa market. “We are reviewing our business plan every two-to-three months because, as a new hotel, a new spa, we cannot have just one strategy,” explains Nicolas. “Our focus right now is on retail, facial treatments and memberships, and we’ve kept our membership system relatively simple. We didn’t want to over-complicate it with numerous packages. Being in this corporate area, we know Monday-Friday memberships are going to be a hit. We’ve already noticed a trend of corporate doing very well. We’re also doing great with day passes.”

Market leader Alongside the striking Rotunda Bar that greets guests as they move off from the main reception area, and two

fine-dining restaurants in Mei Ume, serving Chinese and Japanese cuisine, and La Dame de Pic, overseen by three Michelin-starred chef Anne-Sophie Pic, the addition of a Gielly Green hair salon in March, sited on the ground floor, will prove a further draw. But it is the spa, described by Caspari as being “detached from the exterior world”, and transporting guests into “another universe” that Ten Trinity Square is looking to make its mark with. “We now offer one of the largest spa and fitness facilities in this area of the City of London, with a wellness concept that is tailored to meet the needs of our hotel guests and the local market,” claims Andre Buldini. “In working with a number of exclusive brand partners, such as Dr Burgener, ESPA, Amala and marocMaroc, and engaging with retail brands to ensure that we continue to provide an exciting offering for our guests, spa members and visitors, we aim to be the leading provider of spa and wellness services for this market,” he states. THE SPA AT FOUR SEASONS LONDON AT TEN TRINITY SQUARE +44 (0) 203 297 3780 | www.fourseasons.com/tentrinity Owner: Reignwood Group Spa size: 1,680sqm Spa team: 14 Treatment rooms: 8 Product partners: Dr Burgener, ESPA, Amala, marocMaroc, OPI Thermal spa design and supply: Devin Consulting, Barr + Wray Wet spa design and supply: Devin Consulting, Neuman Aqua Other suppliers: Gharieni, Matrix, Hammer Strength, Life Fitness, Woodway, RKF, Comphy, Silvera, dpa Lighting

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Aromatherapy Associates Promotion

The art of living well

For so long a pioneering international brand, Aromatherapy Associates is now delivering a powerful wellbeing message out into the spa industry

or over 30 years Aromatherapy Associates has developed a range of professional and retail bath, body and skincare products that take clients on a sensorial journey designed to enhance wellbeing on a physical, mental and emotional level. The award-winning brand, founded in 1985 by the late Geraldine Howard and Sue Beechey, who started out as therapists in the early 1970s, can be found in hotels, spas and retail outlets in more than 50 countries worldwide. While its products have long elevated the spirits and senses of guests and customers, CEO Tracey Woodward is now leading a drive to ensure teams and staff within the service industry are also taking care of themselves. Woodward, who along with her team of Wellbeing Experts has so far taken the ‘Wellness in the Workplace’ initiative to around 30 global partners as well as numerous events across Europe, discusses the programme’s importance to the Aromatherapy Associates brand and its plans for the future.

Why did you start such an enterprise? If we are telling guests how to live a well life then it is imperative the people who take care of them understand the importance of their own wellness. For us, it’s about helping them understand the art of living well. We have to look after our industry, otherwise, we’re not a true wellbeing brand and we’re not practicing what we preach. While we need to be in retail to build awareness, we also need to communicate our mission and vision, and take wellness into the workplace at a time when it has never been more essential. That was our driving force – to become more of a community brand. The key point we want to get across is that it’s all about making small changes in order to

make yourself feel better. When you go into a business, you are told how to do the job, but not how to look after yourself while you are doing that job. For example, if you are moving more and sleeping well then you are going to be more constructive at work and less confrontational, with a better approach and more energy. This approach to work will allow you to learn about self-care and self-kindness, and respect for others.

What has been the response? Really good. To give an example, we’ve been to Galgorm Resort & Spa in Northern Ireland on a

“We decided we have to look after our industry, otherwise, we’re not a true wellbeing brand and we’re not practicing what we preach.” Tracey Woodward CEO, Aromatherapy Associates

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few occasions and we’ve seen the difference in their staff. The manager has told us we’ve been amazing, and not just for the spa team, but also for the restaurant and concierge staff. They said they loved it; the talks were insightful, they learned new things and have made great lifestyle changes. We are seeing more organisations looking to bring this to their staff and employees. Also, since I’ve been on board we’ve done numerous workshops of our own, bringing in experts on motivation, social media, cookery, fashion, fitness, even a tea sommelier, most of which have no association to our business at all. For us, it’s all about engagement and coming together as a team. We hope our classes will be perceived in the same way and that everybody helps each other on the road to wellness.

How much work is there still to do? There is a lot more. Personally, I think within the next five to 10 years most organisations will need to have a clinical psychologist as there will be issues with loneliness and self-esteem as social media continues to create a sense of isolation. It’s a different generation we will have challenges with, and we have to be mindful of that. Hopefully, we can have an impact on them and build confidence, resilience, and self-esteem.

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From far left: Aromatherapy Associates CEO Tracey Woodward; the brand is committed to promoting its ‘Art of Living Well’ philosophy; workplace wellness is seen as a crucial part of fostering a loyal and happy community among its partners and clients; the brand’s sensorial body and skincare products are found in more than 50 countries

At the moment we are talking in very privileged environments. Five-star hotels have the top three percent of the population’s earners staying as guests, but we need to make a difference to the people who are working to service them.

What is the overall goal? When I look at the industry, I believe there are more hotels opening across the world than there are retail outlets, so there is going to be a considerable demand for people. If we don’t do something to make it attractive to come and work in the industry, then we are going to struggle. We have to make it a nurturing environment to work in. If you want your therapist, your manager or your person on the front desk to take great care of your guests and customers, then you have to nurture them because it is going to be a very competitive arena over the next 10 years. Changes have to be made, and people have to start thinking about that. www.aromatherapyassociates.com

The Wellbeing Expert team Yvonne Wake Nutrition & lifestyle expert With a London consultancy and a health retreat in the south-west of France, Yvonne shares with people how to take care of themselves through nutrition. Nicola Addison Health and fitness expert Owner of Eqvvs Training, a personal training studio in Knightsbridge, London, Nicola is a spokesperson who drives the collaboration between exercise and wellness to enhance lives. Terrence the Teacher Mindfulness expert A qualified clinical hypnotherapist, Terrence focuses on mindful living and hypnotherapy, teaching practical empowering methods that help people reach their goals.

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BEAUTY

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NAILCARE

THALASSOTHERAPY

EDITED BY MARK SMITH

Editor’s choice

Anti-wrinkle benefits without the injections Natura Bissé’s new Inhibit Face-Lift offers non-invasive transformation Designed to mimic the effects of micro-injections without needles, Natura Bissé’s new beauty protocol combines the Inhibit collection of professional products with advanced facial massage techniques. The Inhibit Face-Lift aims to rejuvenate the skin while softening wrinkles and fine lines. “Clients who undergo medical Sali Flores aesthetic procedures demand and expect other kinds of results from their treatments,” explains Natura Bissé’s managing director, Sali Flores. “We wanted to develop a treatment that would satisfy this kind of savvy customer looking to maintain and boost their results. However, those not interested in such procedures can also choose this treatment if they want to blur expression lines and add that super lifting effect.” Active ingredients are applied through energetic massage procedures that stimulate microcirculation to transform the skin’s appearance. The first stage begins with Radiance Lifting Peel, a cocktail of non-irritating, exfoliating pyruvic, shikimic, azelaic, maslinic and lactic acids that removes dead cells and lightens dark spots. To aid the restructuring of the skin, Inhibit High Definition Lifting Concentrate includes growth factors, retinol and copper peptides boosted with neuropeptides Octamioxyl and conotoxin, which inhibit the formation of facial muscle contractions. The concentrate’s formula also includes triple hyaluronic acid, niacinamide, collagen and a powerful lipid supplement that has a plumping effect. The treatment’s final stage features a gel-mask with anti-inflammatory boswellia serrata extract and double hyaluronic acid of high and low molecular weight to visibly ‘fill’ lines and wrinkles. The facial works to renew, brighten, correct and tighten skin in just one hydrating 60-minute session. When offered regularly, as a course of treatments, the benefits are said to be significantly enhanced. “The creation of Inhibit Face-Lift has taken over two years, working not only on the development of the products, but also the protocol itself,” adds Flores. “For Natura Bissé, the therapist’s touch is fundamental to the treatment and we invest a lot of time researching different techniques and movements to give visible results.” www.naturabisse.com

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Menu New products & therapies

Shell shocked Inspired by the South Korean K-Pop culture, the CND Chic Shock collection is a unique mix of bright pastel shades for spring. Available in Shellac, the high-performance 14-day nail colour, and Vinylux, the seven-day polish, the new colours offer a great choice of spring-ready shades for toes and fingers. Chic Shock offers; the pastel pink of Candied; Taffy, a pale mint; the delicate yellow of Jellied; and Gummi, a chalky lilac. “This is our most tempting take on self-expression yet,” says CND co-founder and style director Jan Arnold. “Whether you have a sweet tooth, hip-hop street edge or unpredictable layers of complexity, this season, you have full permission to indulge with the Chic Shock collection.” www.sweetsquared.com

Treatment focus

Thalgo Body Sculpt Treatment Tailored to address every individual body shape, Thalgo’s Body Sculpt Treatment aims to reduce cellulite and correct skin slackening. The treatment begins with a Slimming Preparation Peel featuring high levels of glycolic and malic acid. During alternate treatments, a Corrective Slimming or a Firming Double Wrap can be employed at this stage. A subsequent Body Palp Massage utilises a patented, non-motorised ‘palper-rouler’ massage instrument known as a Body Palp. Inspired by cupping, the massage breaks down stubborn cellulite, tones the body, and resculpts the silhouette. A course of treatments is recommended to maximise results. To enhance the ritual’s benefits, Thalgo has also launched Complete Cellulite Corrector, to refine and smooth, in addition to Stomach and Waist Coach, which are marine dietary supplements to help refine and resculpt the figure. www.thalgo.co.uk

Skincare gets smarter Elemis has added to its popular Pro-Collagen range with the launch of Pro-Collagen Overnight Matrix with Smart Technology. This clinically proven overnight treatment introduces a powerful blend of active ingredients including: synergistic micro-algae to restore the skin’s natural balance; drone peptide technology to boost hyaluronic acid within the extra cellular matrix; microalgae dunaliella salina, a powerful cocktail of amino acids and carbohydrates; and padina pavonica, which helps to maintain skin hydration. These ingredients work synergistically throughout the night to restore skin equilibrium, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and smoothing the skin. Essential oils of geranium, peppermint, lavender, chamomile, eucalyptus, ho wood, orange, clove and lavandin promote a sense of relaxation for a soothing aromatic experience. www.elemis.com

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Menu New products & therapies

Clever cleansing Decléor has added to its range of cleansers with the introduction of Aroma Cleanse Biphase Caring Cleanser & Makeup Remover. A potent blend of botanical oils and precious flower waters, the cleanser removes makeup, including waterproof products, as well as refreshing, softening, plumping and boosting skin radiance. In addition to cold-pressed sweet almond, jojoba and hazelnut botanical oils to nourish the skin, the formula includes cornflower, peppermint and hamamelis flower waters to soothe and tone. The cleanser is recommended for use in morning showers and at night to remove makeup and impurities from the day. www.decleor.co.uk

Bathing beauties Pevonia’s first aromatherapeutic body collection aims to transform bath time into a sensory spa experience. Infused with all-natural ingredients, the BodyRenew Bathing Pleasures collection features bath salts, bubble bath, and a body moisturiser in three natural scents to address specific skin concerns. The collection, designed to enrich the skin with salts and minerals, is available in retail and professional sizes, and clients can choose from three heady scents, including: Jasmine & Lavender to soothe and calm; Peach & Vanilla to brighten and repair; and Pineapple & Coconut to mineralise and moisturise. www.pevonia.co.uk

Just for men

Body reawakening: Decleor launches Aroma Blend From the vines

Adding to its popular Thé des Vignes collection, Caudalie has launched a new Body & Hair Nourishing Oil. The rich, fragrant product is enriched with grape seed oil, which contains a high concentration of omega 6 and vitamin E, as well as sesame oil, which is rich in free radicals, and hibiscus oil to help reduce water loss from the skin. The formula also harnesses the unsaturated fatty acids of organic Argan oil to restore the hydro-lipid film, and has shea butter, rich in vitamin A and E, to regulate skin hydration. The new oil includes Caudalie’s patented Grape Seed Extract, an antioxidant complex that provides a unique protective barrier in the fight against free-radical damage. www.caudalie.com

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ClarinsMen tackles anti-ageing issues with the launch of Hydra Sculpt Resculpting Perfector and UV Plus Anti-Pollution Multi-Protection SPF50. The former hydrates and visibly redefines facial contours of the skin, incorporating lemon extract and salicylic acid to exfoliate, oat sugars to smooth, bisabolol and glycerin hydrate to soothe, and ClarinsMen anti-pollution complex to protect. Working on the lower areas of the face, caffeine and baccharis extract refine the skin while centella asiatica asiaticosides sculpts and horse chestnut oxygenates. Tested in extreme conditions, the UV Plus Anti-Pollution Multi-Protection SPF50 is water resistant and protects against the harmful effects of the environment. Oil-free with a matte finish, it is boosted by the inclusion of ClarinsMen anti-pollution complex. www.clarins.co.uk

Menu New products & therapies

Treatment focus

Subtle Energies debuts at Six Senses in Spain

Natural Spa Factory: I am Woman Natural Spa Factory has developed new spa treatments using products designed to alleviate the symptoms often linked with menstruation and the menopause. Said to be an industry first, the Woman:Kind treatments feature mood-boosting botanicals, including mandarin and neroli with soothing lavender and antispasmodic ginger and clove, to name a few. Woman:Kind aims to address the hormonal ebbs and surges, discomfort and sensitivities typically experienced during menstruation by offering a self-heating wrap for the abdomen and lower back, alongside a targeted facial to help balance hormonal skin. Pause:Me works to alleviate the symptoms linked to menopause. The treatment includes the application of an iced collagen sheet mask to cool hot-flushed skin, and hormone-balancing essential oils. www.naturalspafactory.com

Six Senses Spa at Puente Romano, Marbella, has introduced a new programme of plant-based therapies and treatments co-created by Subtle Energies. Based on Ayurvedic principles, the new treatments have been designed to address multiple skin and body concerns, while delivering high-performance results and serving the demand for plant-based, vegan-friendly therapies and products. The menu includes a 24K Gold Age-Defying Facial, which invigorates the skin, boosting collagen production and cell renewal using mogra and 24k gold leaf. In addition, Soothe & Enrich is an advanced antioxidant facial, designed for dry, sensitive or damaged skin. Elsewhere, the Rasayana Detox Body Buff aims to detoxify and stimulate the adrenals using cinnamon bark and walnut shells blended with tulasi, limbu and wild turmeric. www.subtleenergies.com.au | www.puenteromano.com

Pollution protection Matis has announced two new additions to its RĂŠponse Jeunesse line, to protect the skin from pollution. Essential Micellar Water cleanses, removes make-up and fights pollution, while Matiscity is an anti-pollution hydrating cream created to protect the skin while reducing premature ageing. At the heart of these products is MatiSystem PMO3, a physical and biological shield made from white horehound that protects against tiny particles and reduces the negative effects of pollution. The formulas contain Aquaregul to optimise skin hydration, reinforcing the skin barrier and improving skin texture with antioxidant-rich cranberry and rose water to soften the skin. www.matis-paris.com

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Beauty & Spa Style Specialists

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Menu New products & therapies

Treatment focus Voya launches mum-to-be treatments Voya’s certified organic, Mum to Be range is formulated with a potent mix of seaweeds and oils, as well as a complex containing golden seaweed, to preserve the dermal epidermal junction and stimulate collagen to hydrate and tone the skin. Mama Oil is a body oil to strengthen skin and minimise stretch marks, while Mama Care is a stretch-mark-minimising body cream to firm, plump and tone the skin. The brand’s Organic Precious Moments spa treatment features an enveloping mask to prevent stretch marks, and the client’s feet are also wrapped in seaweed leaves to help boost circulation, improve lymphatic drainage and reduce fluid retention. A relaxing face, hand and arm massage follows. The 90-minute Organic Prenatal Voyager ritual features a full-body exfoliation followed by a head-to-toe Nourishing Mama Oil massage. “We know that mums-to-be turn to certified organic beauty and wellness, so it was a natural step for us to be taking in terms of product development and new treatments,” says Voya co-founder Kira Walton. “As a new mum myself, I know the changes you and your body go through during pregnancy, so creating something that worked to keep skin supple and hydrated, as well as providing some much-needed pampering and relaxation during pregnancy, was a delight to work on.” www.voya.ie

Long-lasting results from MoroccanTan

Jet-set skincare ESPA’s Beauty Explorer kit is a comprehensive collection of the brand’s best-selling skin, body and haircare products in ‘on-the-go’ travel sizes. The Beauty Explorer packs include: Optimal Skin ProCleanser, Optimal Skin ProMoisturiser, Optimal Skin ProSerum, Skin Rescue Balm and Hydrating Floral Spafresh Spritzer. For hair, the kit features: Purifying Shampoo and Nourishing Conditioner alongside the Pink Hair and Scalp Mud. For the body there is Energising Shower Gel, and Smooth & Firm Body Butter. Beauty Explorer ensures travellers will feel cleansed, refreshed, revived and hydrated from top to toe. www.espaskincare.com

MoroccanTan has launched MoroccanAccelerated, formulated with 16% DHA complex to deliver a richer, deeper, longer-lasting and darker tan. “With MoroccanAccelerated, spa clients can enjoy a luxurious spray tan treatment with the added benefit of being able to rinse off in as little as 30 minutes and up to a maximum of four hours for a deeper, darker colour,” explains Samantha Sweet, co-founder of UK distributor Sweet Squared. “Suitable for all skin types and infused with Argan Oil to nourish and pamper the skin, MoroccanAccelerated also boasts a 48-hour hydration complex, revitalising the skin and delivering a beautiful, even tan all-in-one,” she confirms. www.sweetsquared.com

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to celebrate Headland Hotel and Spa, Newquay

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Menu New products & therapies

Global beauty rituals from Cinq Mondes

Drawing inspiration from global spa traditions, Cinq Mondes’ renowned The Beauty Rituals of the World face, body and massage treatments offer unique aromas, textures and protocols. The Beauty Rituals of the World transports guests on a truly distinct spa journey – from the Aromas and Flowers Japanese Bath Ceremony to Boreh, a traditional exfoliation treatment from Indonesia that combines spices and herbs with quick, light friction – allowing spas to create a unique proposition for guests. The menu also features a toning Indian Ayurveda massage with warm oil, in addition to a relaxing Polynesian massage inspired by Lomi Lomi. For the face, Japanese Ko Bi Do is combined with the manual lifting protocol of dermapuncture for impressive facial refinement. www.cinqmondes.com

Behind the menu

Healing Himalayan salt rocks A mineral-rich and 100% natural ingredient that can be heated to stimuate the brain while exfoliating and aiding cell regeneration Spa Find has introduced Pink Himalayan Salt Rocks as a cornerstone of its new massage treatments, which combine heat, massage and hydration. Hot Himalayan Salt Rocks are used to massage the whole body, with deep-tissue techniques to ease muscular tension and promote a sense of calm. Kate Bunyan, managing director of Finders Brands, explains. Kate Bunyan

What makes the Himalayan Salt Rocks so unique?

Himalayan salt is the most crystalline of all mineral salt and is the only one that can be formed into rocks. They are 100% natural and have many different uses and benefits to the body. We discovered that they can be heated and used in a massage routine as they are so smooth and the client benefits not just from the heat, but the 84 naturally occurring minerals the rocks contain. How can spas introduce this concept into their treatment menus? The Hot Himalayan Salt Rock Massage provides spa clients with added benefits that they don’t get from traditional massage. This is not just a massage, it is a treatment and an uplifting experience for the mind, body and spirit. Clients then get to take the salt rocks used in the massage home with them to enjoy a mineral salt bath. What are the wellness benefits for spa guests?

Night delight Sothys has developed a new night range to help promote restful sleep while renewing and restoring the skin. nO2ctuelle targets the signs of ageing caused by lack of sleep and a hectic lifestyle with a Relaxing Pillow Mist that features citrus and mandarin essential oil to promote a feeling of wellbeing and aid restful sleep. A Chrono-Destressing Sleeping Mask works to reset the skin overnight, formulated with vitamin C and a Detoxifying Complex to optimise the benefits of beauty sleep for a radiant complexion. In addition, the Detox Resurfacing Overnight Cream promises to give the skin a smoother appearance while boosting radiance with vitamin C, chaste tree extract and nasturtium. www.sothys.com

Heating Himalayan Salt Rocks emits negative ions which, when breathed in, stimulate serotonin in the brain. This ‘happy hormone’ brings a sense of wellbeing to, not only the client, but the therapist performing the treatment. Natural exfoliation takes place during the treatment, leaving the skin soft and hydrated from the natural mineral salt. The heat will help to stimulate blood and lymphatic circulation which, in turn, leads to better cell regeneration. The salt rocks also contain 84 minerals that are vital for the functioning of our bodies. What training is required? Training is a one-day course carried out at our head office, based in Kent. Each trainee gives and receives a treatment and is instructed in the benefits of mineral massage and skincare. www.shopforspatrade.com

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ANTI-AGEING INNOVATION

THE ALTERNATIVE TO AESTHETIC MEDICINE • Beauty and Youth • Exclusive and patented treatment methods • Visibly rejuvenates the skin by stimulating cellular activity • Immediately targets signs of ageing

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Menu New products & therapies Treatment focus [comfort zone] launches Skin Regimen Urban Longevity Facial Providing spas with a plant-based facial therapy to counter the stresses of urban life, [comfort zone] has launched the Skin Regimen Facial. A deeply relaxing welcome massage acts on the upper part of the body to alleviate tension, reactivate the circulation and promote deep detoxification. Next, Rolling Roullage, inspired by modern physiotherapy, stimulates collagen and elastin production in the face and décolleté. The facial then uses key products from the Skin Regimen range alongside Macro Waves Sound – a bespoke and mesmerising soundscape that starts as a pulsating frequency and slowly merges into electronic musical elements blended with the sounds of wildlife and the elements. The facial rejuvenates the skin and leaves clients feeling recharged. “The perfect antidote to modern fatigue and urban lifestyle, this facial is the ideal solution for urbanites with stressed skin, showing the first signs of ageing,” says Barbara Gavazzoli, communication and education director at [comfort zone]. “Customisable to correct dullness, dehydration, depletion and wrinkles, it deeply renews the skin and leaves it exceptionally glowing and healthy looking thanks to the combination of AHA and result-oriented boosters.” www.skinregimen.com

Luscious lips ishga has launched a new Lip Balm with its unique signature scent of bergamot and lemongrass to uplift and refresh, and a light SPF to give daily defence against the damaging effects of UV light. With a rich moisturising base of shea butter, the super-moisturising balm includes organic beeswax, a natural emollient that protects, soothes, repairs and regenerates. Jojoba Oil protects against the elements, alongside sweet almond oil and organic castor oil to hydrate and lubricate. ishga’s seaweed extract, rich in polyphenols, provides protection against environmental damage to the skin by neutralising free radicals. www.ishga.co.uk

Wax on, wax off wax:one, exclusively developed and distributed by Sweet Squared, promises to provide professional waxing results while minimising the risk of ingrown hairs. Offering a simple solution for professionals – with just one hot and one strip option – the wax has a low melting and working temperature, ensuring greater client comfort and a quicker preparation time. With a thin viscosity and impressive adhesion, wax:one uses less product, making it both effective and economical. Unisex and suitable for sensitive skin, the range comprises a hot wax, strip wax, cleanser, a pre- and post-wax oil and an ingrown hair treatment, all of which are ideal for retail. www.sweetsquared.com

Festival face Babor has launched a limited-edition collection of its renowned Ampoule Concentrates designed specifically for the festival season. The brightly coloured Festival Edition offers six intensive treatments for the face and includes the new, revitalising Hemp & Peace ampoule. This is formulated with natural hemp seed oil, rich in omega 6 fatty acids, to help restore the skin’s barrier function when it is compromised by stress. The treatment uses extracts of aloe vera and cactus to deeply hydrate, while panthenol calms the skin. The Ampoule Collection also includes sets to hydrate, boost energy, detox, boost resilience and lift the skin. www.babor.de

In every issue, European Spa showcases the best new product and treatment launches. Contact Mark Smith on +44 (0) 115 950 4748 or email mark.smith@spapublishing.com

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Wellness Wellbeing 360Ë&#x161; Fasting focus

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Wellness Wellbeing 360˚ Fasting focus

Fasting An Introduction to

In part one of our new Wellbeing 360º series, we bring together a panel of respected experts to explore the benefits of fasting programmes and the ways in which they can enhance the spa menu R E P OR T BY I A N PA R KES

asting, the voluntary abstinence from food over a period of hours, days, or even weeks, is now widely regarded as an effective, holistic tool to help improve overall health and wellbeing. For millennia fasting has played a key role in many of the most popular religions – from Buddhism to Hinduism, Judaism, Islam and Christianity – being viewed as a way towards spiritual enlightenment. Over time, the health benefits of fasting have become more widely recognised. It has become an integral part of the way of life for people in countries such as Germany and Austria, and a key component of many wellbeing programmes in health resorts such as Lanserhof Lans, Austria; Lanserhof Tegernsee, Germany; VIVAMAYR Maria Wörth and Altausee, Austria; and BollAnts Spa im Park, Germany.

Towards self-healing Dr Otto Buchinger, a German doctor and philosopher born in the late 19th century, was a pioneer of medical therapeutic fasting. His own method, practised from 1920, was based on the belief that there was a direct correlation between fasting and the body’s ability to self-heal. In the mid-1970s, Dr Hellmut Lützner adapted Buchinger’s work, making clear that fasting was not just for the sick seeking a way to become well, but just as importantly for the

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healthy as a way to prevent illness. In detoxifying and deacidifying the body, the resultant improvements in defence mechanisms can help prevent chronic and acute diseases, such as Type II diabetes via a reduction in insulin resistance, as well as potentially reducing the risk of cancers due to the positive effects on metabolism. Immediate benefits include improved gut health, an increase in energy and vitality, a sharpening of the senses and an improvement in the condition of the skin and sleeping patterns, while fasting can also aid weight loss.

Expert implementation Given the increasing demand for wellness, there is clearly an opportunity for spas to incorporate fasting in order to present a deeper understanding of health and wellbeing. However, the variety of methods available means this is not something that can be added lightly to a spa menu. There are numerous medical implications to consider and full consultations with professional, specialised doctors before, during and post-fast are imperative. In this feature, European Spa talks to a number of experts about the benefits of fasting, debunking some of the misconceptions and offering advice on how spas or wellness retreats can incorporate fasting programmes into their offerings.

Wellness Wellbeing 360˚ Fasting focus

‘Like surgery without a knife’ Dr Harald Stossier, medical director of the renowned VIVAMAYR Maria Wörth clinic in Austria, explains how fasting can offer a fresh way of life for mind, body and spirit

W Dr Harald Stossier Medical director, VIVAMAYR Maria Wörth, Austria n Keep exercising: If you take a moderate form of physical activity during fasting your muscle mass will not reduce. As long as you use it, you will not lose it. n Each fast is different: According to the needs of a guest, different fasting strategies can be adopted, ensuring each programme is distinctive. n Fasting does not mean hunger: Those who fast are not hungry and those who are hungry are not fasting. The difference is your decision. If you decide to fast you will not feel hungry. Dr Harald Stossier has spent the last 14 years as medical director of VIVAMAYR Maria Wörth Centre for Modern Mayr Medicine in Austria. The resort focuses on complementary medicine, comprehensive diagnostics and therapy according to FX Mayr, as well as applied kinesiology, orthomolecular medicine, naturopathic treatments, cleansing and detoxification. www.vivamayr.com

Clockwise from top right: VIVAMAYR’s fresh Austrian location; a fasting menu must be offered separate to a spa’s regular cuisine; herbal teas are a valuable part of fasting regimes; Dr Harald Stossier performs an abdominal treatment

e know from modern research that fasting is one of the few scientifically-proven methods to extend a person’s lifespan and reduce diseases. As one of the strongest aids for regeneration, at VIVAMAYR we use fasting as a medical strategy to treat different conditions and to help people rid themselves of their illness complaints. We believe that fasting is essentially ‘surgery without a knife’ – it is a strong, powerful treatment for most of civilisation’s diseases. At VIVAMAYR we train people to implement better and healthier eating habits in their daily routines, either by mild elimination and detoxification or by very intensive fasting. We offer a combination of dietary advice, the retraining of eating habits, detoxification and different treatments to help the body eliminate as many toxins as possible in a short period of time. Our therapies are individualised, so we have a combination of different methods to support our guests’ health.Via diagnostics we can very quickly see a person’s weak and strong points. We can detect food intolerances, specific dysbiosis (imbalances in intestinal bacteria), and we can also see what minerals, vitamins and trace elements are lacking in their hormonal system. Overall, fasting is a physical, mental, spiritual and emotional cleansing, providing everyone with the possibility to start a new period in their life.

Supporting guests The decision for a spa to add fasting to its medical programme has to be supported from the top management down through every single employee. Everyone has to be informed as to the main topics of the programme and what is involved. If it is to be as a medical programme, then you require a well-trained doctor to head it up, otherwise it will not work. Additionally, if the spa has a restaurant on site then you cannot have guests enjoying a varied menu sitting next to those with a ‘fasting menu’. There would be a lot of conflicts and for both sets of guests it would be difficult to follow their individual regimes. You need a clear philosophy about what you want. Most importantly, it is about providing information. For example, people need to be taught the difference between being hungry and fasting, and the results of any examinations must be properly explained before different treatments are discussed. This way, people are aware of what they are being recommended to do – at the end of the day they can decide what they want to do.

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Wellness Wellbeing 360˚ Fasting focus

An opportunity for self-care Sonia Wisinger, a professional fasting coach who runs her own practice in London, says those who engage in fasting will find a new path towards self-improvement

he benefits of fasting can be placed into four categories, associated to your health, beauty, wellbeing and lifestyle. Health-wise, aside from helping to prevent disease and reducing excess body weight, fasting also relieves the digestive tract, providing it with a period of rest and helping to mobilise the defence mechanism. In the area of beauty, those who fast simply age better. The skin does not age prematurely and the connective tissue is tightened. Once we are over 40, many of us start to get a little puffy in the face and lose the sharpness of the contours – fasting helps to prevent that. For overall wellbeing, fasting improves mood, is an uplifting process and also decreases the mind’s chatter. Indeed, demand for fasting coaching is increasing as many business people are suffering digital overload. Fasting provides peace of mind, while you also develop inner strength and focus. In terms of lifestyle, I have people come to me who have lost their relationship to food, who haven’t exercised for years or engaged in any form of self-care. All they do from morning to evening is work, then they do things for their family, but they never do anything for themselves. Fasting is a route to rediscovering that wish to take care of yourself, to eat well and to make different kinds of choices.

Many paths to fasting There are different types of fasting, including clinic-based therapeutic fasts, which last from 10 days to four weeks, and are for people already stricken by illness. What I do is fasting for the healthy, which lasts between 5-10 days and can be conducted at a retreat or spa hotel. These programmes can also be home-guided and I have a number of clients who prefer this option. Then there are intermittent fasts, which you can do yourself. For the best results, I recommend what I call ‘dinner cancelling’ for a period of 16 hours. As for methods, there are different options, such as a liquid-only fast, like the Buchinger-Lützner, where you only have one fresh vegetable juice and one vegetable broth per day, with no solid foods. For the rest of the day it is just herbal tea or water, which creates a deep, detoxifying experience. Then there are partial immersions, such as an alkaline fast to deacidify the body. Here all acid-forming foods are removed, such as coffee, meats, fish, even some vegetables and green tea. Those with chronic pain in their bodies or with skin inflammation of any sort, respond very well to this approach.

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Sonia Wisinger Fasting coach, Wisinger Fasting, Nutrition and Wellbeing, UK n Increase self-belief: Fasting is the preventative health trend of the future. There isn’t anything more potent for healing your body than itself. n More than weight loss: It is important to proactively work on education as there is a trend that fasting is used only for weight loss. It’s more than that and should be a complete holistic approach. n Be steady post-fast: Take care in building up food intake after a fast. Again, education is crucial to increase this understanding. Vienna-born Sonia Wisinger knows the health benefits of fasting for herself after beginning the habit almost 20 years ago. Her dedicated fasting practice in London specialises in proven extended and intermittent fasting methods. www.wisinger.co.uk

Wellness Wellbeing 360˚ Fasting focus

The boost of Energy Cuisine Dr Elke Benedetto-Reisch, medical director at Lanserhof, explains the benefits of the FX Mayr method employed at its health resorts for the last 30 years

T Dr Elke Benedetto-Reisch Medical director, Lanserhof n Individuality is key: Personalised treatment is the primary principle of the LANS Med Concept, resulting in a customised collection of optimal and targeted therapy options for each guest. n Fasting is not dangerous: This is a common misconception. If properly regulated, and guests are properly informed, it is a healthy and beneficial way to improve the quality of life. n Consult a doctor beforehand: Any guest or client that has an ongoing medical condition should not fast without first speaking to a doctor. Dr Elke Benedetto-Reisch is a board member of the International Society of FX Mayr doctors. She specialises in nutritional, naturopathic and orthomolecular medicines, as well as acupuncture, mesotherapy, medical aesthetics, and dark-field microscopy. www.lanserhof.com

Clockwise from top right: Dawn breaks at Lanserhof Tegernsee, Germany; Energy Cuisine is a key element of Lanserhof’s fasting programme; Linda Booth’s ‘Just for Tummies’ digestive health supplements; Massage is just one of the protocols that can be offered to complement fasting regimes

he Lans Med Concept is an intelligent symbiosis of modern medicine, naturopathy, validated therapy methods and the latest scientific research, all based in a state-of-the-art atmosphere. Overall, we run a very profound, well-practised and successful programme for preventative and integrative modern medicine, combining that with a holistic approach, and using naturopathic methods in diagnostics and therapy. Of course, one of our main focuses is on gut health. Each guest follows a detox programme, based on FX Mayr Medicine, but diets range from strict fasting to soft fasting, as all programmes are individualised. Each patient is accompanied by a doctor who takes care of them throughout their stay. A key element of our fasting programme is Energy Cuisine, which consciously focuses on reclaiming a life that is in tune with nature. For this very reason, and when it comes to nutritional medicine, Lanserhof dietitians take the ‘internal clock’, as well as the daily rhythm of an individual’s organs into account. Scientific studies have shown the stomach digests most efficiently between 7-9am, but is hardly active 12 hours later. In addition to building body structure, our cuisine also renews and revives it. Our nutritional medicine leads to body fat being permanently replaced by muscle tissue, while it detoxifies the body and boosts its self-healing powers.

Detoxifying the body Our fasting and diet therapy results in the detoxification and deacidification of the body. Only a detoxified body is capable of regenerating and responding to different treatments. This modern detoxification therapy allows body, mind and soul to activate their self-healing powers. Health consciousness and regeneration are as important today as ever before, and only those who are physically healthy also feel mentally fit. To assist with the programme, we offer massages, physiotherapy appointments, osteopathy, energetic therapy, activity programmes, sports diagnostics and skincare. Medical check-ups are included, along with cardio and gastroenterology checks, as well as genetics, and all other medical fields with external experts. Overall, fasting allows us to better understand our bodies, offering improved gut health, increased metabolism and lower cholesterol as well as mind, mood, sleep and circulation benefits. It is relatively simple in one respect, but complicated in others, which is why for any spa considering adding a fasting programme, a specialist is certainly required. In our case these are mainly doctors, who crucially know how to run such a programme and how to handle any side effects.

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Wellness Wellbeing 360˚ Fasting focus

The benefits of gut health Linda Booth, a colonic hydrotherapist at the Nottingham Health and Wellbeing Clinic, launched a digestive health supplement range in 2015 and calls for fasting education

asting is recommended to patients and clients at my clinic if it’s something they’ve expressed an interest in; if they have a health condition that would benefit from it; and only if they have the constitution and commitment to follow such a regime. The digestive system needs a considerable amount of blood, nutrients, energy and oxygen to enable it to do its job of breaking down food, absorbing and assimilating nutrients, and ensuring wastes are disposed of. When we cease all solid food temporarily during a fast, the body is better able to ‘spring clean’ itself and the immune system – of which around 70% is located in the gut – can step up a gear to target areas of inflammation in the body that may have otherwise been neglected and become more chronic and deep-seated. We have to be sensible, though, because those who are at work, raising children, taking care of elderly relatives or coping with other time-constraining events, must fit fasting around their schedule. Not everybody can take the time off or afford to book into a residential spa to undertake a fasting programme, but we can fit fasting around our lifestyle, at home, simply and with good results. As a therapist, if I suggest someone tries ‘at-home’ fasting, it is incumbent upon me to support them through it.

Spa staff need training Any spa that wants to provide good results for its clients and be viewed as an authority on fasting, building an excellent reputation for its protocols, must invest in the proper training of its staff. Therapists and guests need to fully understand what fasting is, what happens to the body and mind during periods of abstinence from food and what short and long-term benefits can be accrued. Staff and guests also need to understand that the wide range of fasting symptoms, including headaches, nausea, fatigue, low-moods and skin eruptions, are perfectly normal and should be celebrated as the body is performing its ‘spring clean’. However, it’s also important to offer complementary therapies that can keep the channels of cleansing open, such as skin-brushing, saunas and exercise. It is also highly recommended to have a qualified colon hydrotherapist on site as cessation of food can cause slow transit in the bowel. We must remember that although no food is being consumed, there will still be endo-toxic material, ‘ash’ from the ‘dumping’ of metabolic wastes, dead cells and dead bacteria in the bowel and these will need to be eliminated.

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Linda Booth Natural health therapist and founder, Just For Tummies, UK n Work with experts: Ensure your staff are fully qualified. In the UK, members of The Association of Registered Colon Hydrotherapists are regulated by The Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council. n Take it slow: Clients new to fasting should start with an 18-hour fast, where a meal is consumed at 6pm and then nothing until noon the following day other than pure filtered water or herbal teas. n Understand your body: Guests should recognise it is normal for a body to go through considerable changes – headaches, nausea, tiredness – during extended fasts. These should last only 24-48 hours. A leading UK natural health expert, Linda Booth is a qualified colonic hydrotherapist, working at the Nottingham Health and Wellbeing Clinic. Specialising in natural health solutions to resolve digestive and gut disorders, she launched her ‘Just For Tummies’ digestive health supplement range nearly three years ago. www.nottmphysio-colonics.co.uk www.justfortummies.co.uk

Wellness Wellbeing 360˚ Fasting focus

It’s about ‘can do’, not ‘must do’ Jan Bolland, manager of Germany’s family-run BollAnts Spa im Park, where the Felke Method of fasting is practised, discusses the time-tested benefits of this therapy

Jan Bolland Manager, BollAnts Spa im Park, Germany Have a check-up: It is advisable for all guests to be medically checked to ensure a fasting cure is appropriate for them. Continue fasting: We recommend our guests fast once a year, not just for the cure, but to take on board fresh information and new ideas. Nutrition is vital: Fasting is not about ‘not eating’, which is why our fluids provide blended fruits and vegetables. Jan Bolland comes from a family steeped in medical history and his father, Axel, is a doctor of natural medicine. Since studying hospitality management he has spent the last 15 years managing the family-run hotel. www.bollants.de/en

Clockwise from top: A guest exercises in the outdoor pool at BollAnts Spa im Park, Germany; medical consultation is vital to ensure a safe and optimal fasting experience; lifestyle and nutritional changes are encouraged as part of the spa approach to fasting

he fasting cures for our guests start from five days’ duration. Ideally, they should be 7-10 days or even longer. Most people like to start their fast at our retreat because those first few days are the most difficult, then they continue for a second or third week at home, with our support. Unlike other methods, the Felke Cure is a more cocooning, softer approach. It is potentially more comfortable because we say to people “you can do it if you want to”, rather than “you must do it”. It always depends on what our guests need. Some come and want to do a fasting cure, and for most, it is a good idea, but depending on personal health circumstances, it is not always advisable. We still offer people the opportunity to do something different that is part of the Felke therapy, so that could be vegetarian food, for example, but it would not be the fluid fasting cure, which is the main method. This involves fruit juices in the morning, vegetable juices for lunch and clear soups in the evening, all of which are combined with vitamins and minerals. We also offer people pieces of honey as a pick-meup should they feel run down. Some people take it two to three times per day, some don’t touch it at all.

A holistic approach The reason why people do a fasting cure at BollAnts is that they are seeking a solution for problems they cannot solve via medical doctors or in hospitals. We also offer a more holistic programme, incorporating the four elements of water, earth, air and light. As a spa hotel, we are able to offer a variety of treatments, like Ayurveda and vinotherapy, away from the medical side. This is very important because these treatments help and combine with the detox process, as well as providing comfort and relaxation. With fasting, people can suffer from headaches and other symptoms, but in combination with the treatments, after a few days they feel reborn and experience renewed energy. For some, they have a feeling like they have never had before, which is confirmation that it was good to start the programme. This energy makes it easier to continue with the process. Our idea of a fasting cure is about changing your mind; we help people to find an active process to change their lifestyle following the cure. It is about harnessing holistic health through detoxing the body and the mind.

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Business Report: Healing Summit 2018, Berlin

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Business Report: Healing Summit 2018, Berlin

The secret of healing The fifth Healing Summit welcomed an international delegation to Rocco Forte Hotel De Rome in Berlin. European Spa shares some of the forward-thinking event’s most memorable moments RE P OR T BY S A R A H C A M I L L E R I

his year’s Healing Summit, organised by the team at Healing Hotels of the World, attracted a 130-strong international delegation from 27 countries, including over 30 hoteliers and a notable mix of wellbeing consultants, healing practitioners, innovative product and equipment companies and media representatives. Taking place at Rocco Forte’s elegant Hotel De Rome, Berlin, this intimate gathering was again seamlessly moderated by US journalist Valerie Smaldone, who welcomed guests to the historic city which, she remarked, “epitomises change and transformation” – themes reflected in the fifth Healing Summit agenda. Summit co-founder Anne Biging, who is dedicated to opening up holistic health and transformative travel, urged the delegation to think beyond the current ‘wellness conversation’ and embrace healing in every aspect of hospitality, business practice and daily life. “Is healing really a radical idea? Or is it the most optimistic outlook for the future?” she asked.

Heart-Earth connections Under a theme of ‘The Secret of Healing’, the Summit’s enjoyable two-day programme was packed with inspired talks interspersed with meditation, yoga, break-out and networking sessions – a unique format designed to explore a more holistic approach to life and business. No stranger to challenging the status quo, Ken Redcross MD, the American founder of Redcross Concierge, shared how his frustration with a lack of patient consultation time led him to launch a full-spectrum healthcare service, 1. Delegates connect and share aspirations 2. Guest moderator, broadcaster Valerie Smaldone 3. Wellbeing Escapes’ Stella Photi in conversation with Diana Stobo of The Retreat Costa Rica, and Corinna Yap from COMO Shambhala 4. The Healing Summit 2018 speakers and team 5. NextLevel Leadership’s Catherine Parrish 6. Fischer Travel Enterprises’ Stacy Fischer-Rosenthal 7. Delegates practice hatha yoga with Patricia Thielemann

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“Healing is a glimpse of the infinite. Its about the truth. It’s about changing our hearts, our minds and our habits” Dr Elisabeth Ixmeier and Anne Biging Co-founders, The Healing Summit

which includes holistic services and wellness counselling. A rebel with heart, he told how his desire to ‘touch souls’ and really connect with patients, has achieved remarkable results, often without prescribing medication. Also championing a more holistic approach to health from a medical standpoint, neuroscientist Dr Marjorie Woollacott highlighted scientific research to measure how the practice of meditation can potentially strengthen the delivery of healing modalities such as Reiki. “Having access to complementary medicine has become an increasing desire across all generations and cultural strata,” she concluded, outlining how healing businesses could incorporate meditation into their daily practices.

Inspiring change Meditation was a recurring theme throughout the Summit and the story of Australian meditation expert Steve Griffith, leader of ‘Success without Stress’ meditation programmes and founder of Sukhavati Ayurvedic Retreat &

Spa in Bali, was certainly inspiring. “We give people the opportunity to think deeply about their past and how they want to move forward,” he explained. “It inspires change. Our routines create resilience and intelligence. “We have 70 people working for us and see 2,000 people a year through our programmes, including from banks, financial institutions and football clubs, all meditating before important meetings, training sessions or key events.” Griffiths had a positive message for the Summit, stating: “In most organisations, no one is consciously choosing self-awareness yet, but the world is changing. For all of us in the healing business this is a very exciting time – a time to think big. We are all sitting on something very important.”

Paths of purpose Wise words from humanitarian Catherine Parish, founder of NextLevel Leadership, resonated with delegates as she told how collaboration creates prosperity, asking everyone to consider how our relationship with money may be holding us back in life and business. Leadership and communication trainer Velleda Dobrowolny echoed this sentiment, asking the Summit to focus on “righteousness, ethics, responsibility, duty and virtue”. International spa brand [comfort zone]’s general manager Brian Brazeau focused on how striving to achieve B Corp accreditation had been transformational for him and his team. A growing community now includes around 2,100 Certified B Corp companies from 50 countries and over 130 industries, working towards one unifying goal: to redefine success in business. “Joining B Corp was an eye opener for us – we really had an ‘a-ha!’ moment as it was so aligned with our values,” revealed Brazeau. “The changes that it has brought to the company are very much about mindset. Our ideas are not always profitable, but about doing what’s best – and it works,” he revealed.

Business Report: Healing Summit 2018, Berlin Focus on creativity

make are right for the people we work with, as well as the people we serve.”

Fellow Canadian Jocelyna Dubuc, who founded iconic destination Spa Eastman in Montreal 40 years ago, revealed how her passion to deliver transformative experiences has always seen her through challenging times. “When I travelled India, I dreamed of creating a place that would be life-changing. I had no model and no money. It actually grew organically without a plan,” she stated. “We always needed money but it has never been a problem for me. The main challenge is to find the right people and keep them. “Another challenge was that the banks did not believe in a woman running the business – they were always looking for the man behind me. It was a big lesson for me and sometimes I was very alone, but I found my friends were always around me,” she recalled. Her message to the Summit was: “Many people lose their creativity. You must remain creative as life always changes. A lot of companies just look at the bottom line but more and more we have to ensure the decisions we

Soul luxury Focusing on elite travellers, an insightful conversation between Soul Luxury founder Claudia Roth and Stacy Fischer-Rosenthal, president of Fischer Travel Enterprises, looked at the importance of delivering superlative hospitality service and experiences. “Our mission statement is ‘nothing is impossible’,” said Fischer-Rosenthal, who revealed that to become a client of her exclusive New York-based business commands a $150,000 (£107,000/e122,000) membership fee with an additional $25,000 annual fee. “We have to stay fresh and innovative,” she reflected. “The luxury traveller wants experiences that speak to the heart and to travel with those they love... So many clients call me to say ‘I am exhausted’. People want to take a step back, a pause.” “The world has woken up to healing and wellbeing,” concurred Roth, an expert in luxury

travel who has dedicated 25 years to the world’s most prestigious hotel portfolios. “Wellbeing tourism is exploding. The luxury traveller wants transformation and change. Global consciousness is rising and this is creating a shift in luxury travel and mindset.”

A global vision A panel of wellness leaders, including Stella Photi, founder of Wellbeing Escapes; Diana Stobo, founder of The Retreat Costa Rica; and Corinna Yap, wellness director of COMO Shambhala, discussed what healing means in their respective markets. “Our average client is between 40-55 and they find out when they come to us that it’s not about fluff, spa and getting their nails done. It’s about surrendering to nature – no TV or WiFi. We also have a really strong millennial base,” said Stobo. 1. Gharieni’s Quartz treatment table 2. Neuroscientist Dr. Marjorie Woollacott 3. Steve Griffith of Sukhavati Ayurvedic Retreat & Spa, Bali 4. Dr Ken Redcross of Redcross Concierge 5. Delegates enjoy an informative presentation

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Business Report: Healing Summit 2018, Berlin 1

1. Some of The Healing Summit team 2. Isabelle Duchesneau of Le Monastère des Augustines, Canada 3. Patrizia Bortolin from The Euphoria Retreat 4. Healing Summit co-founder Dr Elisabeth Ixmeier interviews [comfort zone]’s Brian Brazeau and Spa Eastman’s Jocelyna Dubuc 4

For her part, Yap explained: “In Asia it’s more about DIY experiences for millennials who will Airbnb and book their own yoga and surfing. However, we have more Koreans coming to try out COMO in Bali, but from a trendier beauty perspective. “In Singapore we are also noticing that mental stress and wellbeing is now something people are comfortable to talk about – previously it was very taboo. Our guests are looking to explore something different, something with more medical roots to healing.” Bringing the focus back to Europe, Stella Photi said: “Seventy percent of clients are single travellers – people really value being alone. We are seeing more and more people booking retreats from a mental and emotional perspective, so they can get on with their lives.”

Brand kudos and connections Founder of Kyricos & Associates, Mia Kyricos reminded delegates that, according to the latest figures from the Global Wellness Institute, they are all active players in the $3.7 trillion

worldwide wellness industry. “Collectively, our business is three times the size of the pharmaceutical industry worldwide,” Kyricos claimed. As a branding specialist, she asked delegates to consider the importance of creating a strong healing brand. “There is so much noise out there in the wellness space, you need to think about what your brand really stands for,” she urged. “Shut your brains off and turn your minds and souls on – the difference between good brands and great brands are the ones that have an ethereal feeling to them.” Spa business consultant Lisa Starr asked delegates to take a closer look at their service offering, communication and connection with guests. An expert in auditing spas and healing destinations, Starr highlighted the importance of monitoring macro trends, such as mental wellness, clean air, security, personalisation and the desire for social experiences. She urged resort owners to think about their guest journey. “How do we deliver the most value for guests?” she enquired. “Having

a beautiful property is not enough – its what happens once the guest arrives that matters.”

Noble intentions Award-winning spa director and mentor Patrizia Bortolin shared her unique talent to take retreat guests to a deeper level of self-understanding. Currently preparing for the June opening of The Euphoria Retreat in Greece (see News p18), she stressed the importance of nurturing staff and understanding their signature strengths and wellbeing. From an event packed with notable speakers and proactive breakout sessions, the last word has to go to Summit co-founder Anne Biging, who said: “For me healing is a glimpse into the infinite. It’s about the truth. It’s about changing our hearts, our minds, our habits. We are here to reveal the secret of healing. The strongest force in the universe is in our hearts – to share love and work together. We can choose this mind set,” she stated, setting out the noble inspiration behind this unique annual event. www.healingsummit.org | #healingsummit2018

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Spas Vamed Vitality World, Austria

Let your soul run free European Spa goes behind the scenes with Vamed Vitality World’s chief operating officer Tom Bauer to discover how ‘happiness drives success’

ustrian-based healthcare service provider Vamed first dived into the wellness market in 1995, launching its unique spa brand, Vamed Vitality World, which today welcomes 3.2 million guests annually – a true testament to its philosophy of ‘putting people first’. “Decades of development in healthcare have helped us expand our spa resorts to provide holistic personal experiences for wellbeing,” explains Tom Bauer, chief operating officer of Vamed Vitality World. “Of course, our founding medical aspect is very important, however, ‘relax’ is the watchword at all of the Vamed thermal spa and health resorts. We want guests to relax, recharge and let their soul run free; we are in the happiness business.” Incorporating nine impressive thermal spa and health resorts – eight in Austria and one in Budapest, Hungary – Vamed Vitality World now claims a 29% market share of Austria’s considerable spa and health tourism. The brand’s multi-faceted ‘quality of life’ concept brings together the healing power of thermal waters and nature, the value of healthy nutrition and the indulgence of luxury treatments, as well as affordable and accessible spa time for the whole family. However, no two sites are the same, each one combining the brand’s ethos with its own highly-specialised offering. “Because we conceptualise, build and manage all of our resorts, we are able to create unique environments that care deeply for our guests and our teams of fully-qualified spa professionals,” confirms Bauer. “With architecturally inspiring hotels, state-of-the-art spa facilities, first-class food, therapies and treatments, it is a powerful combination.” He adds: “We have 650,000+ hotel nights per year and 250,000 day spa guests, so we

“Decades of development in healthcare have helped us expand our spa resorts to provide holistic personal experiences for wellbeing.” Tom Bauer Chief operating officer, Vamed Vitality World

R E P OR T BY H EL L ENA B A R NE S

need to know our commitment to customer care and quality is led by an intelligent approach to spa – one that provides wellbeing and challenges concepts to find the next thing people are looking for.”

Seats of learning Describing what drives this daring and successful company, Bauer says: “Our investment strategy is committed to funding new projects on a five-to-seven-year cycle, which requires foresight across the brand. This happens in a think-tank, where managing directors from all properties meet with head office teams and leading external experts, such as the CEO of Austrian Airlines. “It’s literally a round table with 16 chairs, but we only gather 15 people, so one chair is always empty to represent the most important person, our guest. The rule in the room is very simple – each voice is equal and we don’t ask ‘why?’, we ask ‘how?’. “I also bring in key innovators, like the mastermind behind Swarovski World, Andy Brown, to provide external ideas that make us think – from 100 ideas maybe two will become something truly incredible.” While each spa resort aims to provide its own unique customer journey, the group-wide focus is on delivering real health benefits for guests, whether it be from the taking of thermal waters or access to the 1,400 doctors working within the Vamed expert medical board. The variety of such inspiration can be seen in concepts such as the patented GourMed-Cuisine nutritionally controlled eating plan and a brand-wide commitment to Babor and Vinoble spa products with signature treatments for each resort. “Most people are not super-rich and they have little time to escape, recover or think about what’s really important,” muses Bauer. “Life has changed. We’re never unplugged, people will work longer to reach retirement age and depression is becoming a crisis – so our focus is to support guests in their wellbeing changes.” Here, we visit three Vamed Vitality Resorts to find out how each one builds on the group’s dedication to innovation.

Vienna calling Vamed Vitality World operates nine successful thermal spa and health resorts from its central headquarters in Vienna. l

qua Dome-Tirol Therme, A Längenfeld – featuring 12 thermal indoor and outdoor pools in an exhilarating Alpine setting Spa Resort Therme Geinberg – taking guests on a spa journey from the Caribbean to the Orient with five thermal freshwater and saltwater pools. Therme Laa Hotel and Silent Spa, Wienviertel – a thermal oasis incorporating a ground-breaking new dimension in spa space for calm contemplation. St. Martins Therme & Lodge, Seewinkel – outdoor adventures in Europe’s first wellness lodge. Therme Wien, Vienna – home to the biggest curative thermal spa in a European city. Gesundheitszentrum, Bad Sauerbrunn – offers three spas with curative spring waters. Tauern Spa Zell am See, Kaprun – thermal wellness and sporting activities in the foothills of the Kitzsteinhorn Mountain. la pura Women’s Health Resort, Kamptal – an exclusive retreat focused on the latest gender medicine concepts. Aquaworld Resort Budapest – one of the biggest spa health resorts in Hungary with central Europe’s largest indoor aqua park. www.vitality-world.com

Opposite page, clockwise from top: The majestic Aqua Dome-Tirol Therme in Längenfeld, Austria; the sunlit lakeside sauna at St Martins Therme & Lodge, Seewinkel; each of the Vamed Vitality World spas provides guests with a different style of relaxation while remaining true to the brand’s holistic ethos

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Spas Vamed Vitality World, Austria

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Spas Vamed Vitality World, Austria

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Spas Vamed Vitality World, Austria

Clockwise from far left: The Silent Spa’s relaxation area offers pre-booking of loungers; the spa’s architecturally unique centrepiece encompasses a three-storey cascading fountain surrounded by four symmetrical ellipses; silence is golden among the walk-in water landscapes; the spa’s geometric swim-up pools; Therme Laa Hotel’s thermal pool is for use by residents and day guests; a panoramic view of the Therme Laa Hotel and Silent Spa in northern Austria’s Weinviertel region

Therme Laa Hotel & Silent Spa, Weinviertel A 3,600sqm spa, inspired by ‘sacred architecture’, that merges traditional and modern features

he Vamed group’s ground-breaking approach to wellness is highlighted in its recent €14 million (£12 million) investment in Silent Spa, which was launched in 2017 at its Therme Laa resort. “We had big discussions, internally and with guests, about what they need for the future and it came down to two significant points – time and space,” says Therme Laa spa director Florian Perteneder. “You can use fluffy descriptives for both, but that is fundamentally it. “We developed Silent Spa as the first of its kind in Europe to provide exactly that – time and space for relaxation and contemplation. Here we give guests the choice to not only find the silence of the room, but to find their own inner peace.” Nestled in the rolling hills of northern Austria’s Weinviertel region, the Therme Laa Hotel & Silent Spa is home to one of the largest sauna complexes in the country, with extensive spa facilities and pools fed by a sodium chloride iodine mineral spring, Laa thermal North I. “Therme Laa started life as a public day spa in 2002 and its success encouraged further investment in the region, with the development of a 122-room four-star hotel and spa in 2005. Now we have the award-winning Silent Spa, which has a 160-guest capacity, providing a new five-star wellbeing offering that is totally focused on time and space – this is the future of the wellness business,” states Perteneder. The 3,600sqm Silent Spa, created with architect Wolfgang Vanek and inspired by elements of ‘sacred architecture’, is designed on the mathematical golden ratio principle found in nature.

A tower of health Directly linked to Therme Laa in a separate building with its own entrance, the spa’s centrepiece tower creates an atmospheric 500sqm walk-in water landscape with a three-storey cascade fountain surrounded by

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“Silent Spa has a five-star wellbeing offering that is totally focused on time and space – this is the future of the wellness business.” Florian Perteneder Spa director

four symmetrical ellipse-shaped rooms. “Each area provides different wellbeing, relaxation and recuperation facilities, with a micro-salt chamber, spa suites, a steam bath, the ‘room of silence’ and a brine pool with underwater acoustics, as one would expect from the ‘city of music’,” says Perteneder. Together with a 400sqm sauna area for infusion ceremonies, and 100sqm of treatment space across three rooms and two private suites with double beds and baths, there is also a bar, a restaurant and an exercise area. “Silent Spa is available for all adults, either as part of their hotel package or as a day-spa guest,” states Perteneder. “Everything is provided for them on arrival, from robes and slippers to a Samsung Galaxy tablet – with access to online entertainment and reading material it is a very important part of our service that enables guests to book treatments, order refreshments and share feedback from the comfort of their lounger.” Therme Laa Hotel & Silent Spa +43 (0) 2522 84700 770 | www.therme-laa.at Owner: TBL Therme Laa a.d. Thaya – Betriebsgesellschaft Managing director: Dr Edmund Friedl Spa director: Florian Perteneder Architect: Wolfgang Vanek, Holzbauer & Partner Investment: €14m Spa size: 3,600 sqm Interior design: Büro Holzbauer & Partner Treatment rooms: Five including two double suites Thermal spa: Outdoors: Bio-sauna (60°C), classical Finnish sauna. Indoors: Steam bath, microsalt-room Product partners: Vinoble, Babor, Alessandro, Styx, Pino Spa

Spas Vamed Vitality World, Austria

St Martins Therme & Lodge, Seewinkel Nature is the key to relaxation at this resort complete with a thermal water swimming lake

ailed as the first lodge resort in central Europe to combine wellness and nature experiences, St. Martins Therme & Lodge is located in the magnificent Seewinkel National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site straddling the Austro-Hungarian border. A vast wellness and thermal landscape set over 2000sqm, the star attraction of this four-star, 200-room resort is an eight-hectare thermal water swimming lake with its own small beach known as Summer Island. Embracing its natural assets, St. Martins has two spas situated at opposite ends of the property, one for residents and the other for day visitors. The guests’ Lake Spa, designed on the upper levels with panoramic views, incorporates a thermal water pool, a relaxation zone and two saunas – one for naked bathing – as well as a glass-fronted, infinity-style Finnish sauna overlooking the lake. The ground-floor, public Atrium Spa encompasses relaxation areas set among five saunas and steam rooms, surrounded by five indoor and three outdoor pools that are supplied by mineral water pumped from 860m below the surface of Burgenland’s third certified medicinal spring.

Blending the seasons Describing it as “a place where spring starts a little earlier and summer lasts a little longer,” Tom Bauer, chief operating officer of Vamed Vitality World, explains that the lodge intends to create a luxury connection with nature that appeals to singles, couples, corporations and families. “Once the lake opens in May each season, we switch our marketing strategy to be more family-focused for the three months of the summer, when we can have up to 500 maximum occupancy each day,” he reveals. “Families love the Young Explorers Club as it educates and sparks the imagination of our next generation, making it part of their lifestyle.” The pools are individually dedicated to either activities, saltwater bathing, children’s fun or relaxation, while the steam baths and saunas range from a 90°C Reed sauna and a

“Once the lake opens in May, we switch our marketing strategy to be more family-focused for the three months of the summer.” Tom Bauer Chief operating officer, Vamed Vitality World

Gravel sauna to the cooler Salt Marsh steam room at 45°C. These, together with the spa’s 16 treatment rooms, can be accessed by both residents and day guests. The nature reserve is integral to St. Martins’ core offering, which merges a holistic holiday atmosphere with numerous wellbeing packages such as SpaFari, a day spent with rangers in the Seewinkel National Park followed by access to the thermal spa. With people at its heart, Vamed Vitality World works alongside local communities, employing between 250-300 local staff at each spa resort, all of whom have use of the facilities. However, what is unique at St. Martins is its public-private partnership concept, which evolves the local connection even further by making the 13 municipalities surrounding St. Martins part-owners with a 23% share in the resort. “This extends community involvement with genuine ownership and has turned the entire region into ‘the host’ for St. Martins Therme & Lodge guests,” says Bauer. “We have a leading tourism thermal spa location, created by the region for the region to become a year-round destination with an economic effect that benefits everyone.” St. Martins Therme & Lodge +43 2172 20 500 | www.stmartins.at Owner: Wirtschaft Burgenland (77%) and 13 municipalities of the Seewinkel area (23%) CEO: Klaus Hofmann Spa director: Thomas Gneist Architect and interior design: Wolfgang Vanek, Holzbauer & Partner Investment: €100.5 million Spa size: 240sqm treatment room and 2,000sqm pool area Treatment rooms: 16 Suppliers: Technogym, Vossen Additional facilities: Spa shop, Seewinkel Safari Thermal spa: KLAFS, SSD, Achatz, Finess Product partners: Vinoble, Babor, Pino Spa, Hamberger

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Spas Vamed Vitality World, Austria

Clockwise from far left: Embracing nature from the glass-fronted thermal water pool; signature treatments by Babor and Vinoble have been developed for each resort; sauna infusion ceremonies are integral to the Vamed Vitality World spa offering; St Martins Spa & Lodge in its Seewinkel National Park setting; wellbeing activities include year-round Safari programmes led by experienced rangers; the sauna overlooking a thermal swimming lake, known as Summer Island; Vamed Vitality Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s philosophy has guestâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wellbeing at its heart

Liquid therapy The Vamed Vitality World spa and health resorts present a combined total of more than 25,000sqm of indoor and outdoor thermal pools â&#x20AC;&#x201C; each individually designed to work alongside a vast number of medical therapies, immersion cures and spa treatments. Key health benefits of its curative waters are recommended for the improvement of: l Musculoskeletal disorders and joint degeneration l Respiratory and pulmonary conditions l Neurological disorders l Psoriasis, eczema and rheumatism l Metabolic conditions l Cardiovascular disease l Kidney and urinary tract conditions l Chronic inflammatory rheumatic disorders

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Spas Vamed Vitality World, Austria

la pura, Women’s Health Resort, Kamptal Gender-specific preventative healthcare programmes backed by a strong medical team

ituated in the Kamptal organic agricultural region of Austria is the women-only la pura health resort. As the ‘grand dame’ of the group it makes no apologies for following a gender-specific approach to women’s wellbeing, acknowledging a difference between the health requirements of men and women. “While efforts to give women equal status are truly appreciated, it is no less important to perceive them, from a medical perspective, as unique,” says Alexandra Kautzky-Willer MD, professor of gender medicine at the Vienna Medical University. “Hormones are the ‘connective tissue’ to the double psychological stress triggered by career focus and family care, this is what makes women different,” she adds. “To stay fit, healthy, strong and beautiful, a ‘prevention’ wellness weekend is no longer enough. We look to reduce stress in a sustainable way.”

A preventative approach The four-star, 83-room hotel and health resort has 32 treatment rooms presenting customised programmes based on the three pillars of beauty, exercise and nutrition, with Kautzky-Willer constantly refining the latest gender-oriented medicine concepts for la pura. The 700sqm spa zone with pool, sauna, steam and rasul focuses on beauty, massage and fitness, alongside concepts such as acupuncture, cupping and homotoxicology, designed to release the body’s toxins. With a focus on healthy ageing, la pura offers guests the benefit of five physicians and 20 therapists directed by orthopaedic surgeon and osteopath Karin Stengg MD. As well as an intense 10-day supervised therapy stay to enhance life energy, other key offerings include the first female-specific la pura FX Mayr therapy for optimal preventative healthcare.

“To stay fit, healthy, strong and beautiful, a ‘prevention’ wellness weekend is no longer enough.” Alexandra Kautzky-Willer Professor of gender medicine, Vienna Medical University

la pura Women’s Health Resort +43 2985 26 660 | www.lapura.at Owner: Vamed AG Managing director: Bärbel Frey Medical director: Dr Karin Stengg D.O. Project designer: Wolfgang Vanek, Holzbauer & Partner Spa size: 2,150sqm with fitness, therapy and cosmetics areas Interior design: Wienerin Isabelle Farrokhnia Treatment rooms: 32 Additional facilities: Restaurant, hotel shop, beauty boutique, gym Product partners: Fuhlendorf, Vinoble, Hamberger, Haslauer, Karaja

Clockwise from above left: Specialist doctors at la pura focus on the latest gender medicine concepts; la pura offers 83 bedrooms and 32 treatment rooms; customised programmes incorporate the three pillars of beauty, exercise and wellbeing; delicious and nutritious, the resort’s patented GourMED-Cuisine eating plan

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Expert Guide Luxurious nail services

EUROPEAN SPA’S GUIDE TO

MANICURES & PEDICURES REPORT BY SARAH TODD

hen presented as a luxury spa experience or elegant express services, deluxe manicures and pedicures can greatly increase both revenue and retailing opportunities. However, much thought should be given to the functional and aesthetic aspects of a spa’s nail area, as well as the quality and treatments performed, to ensure a consistently excellent experience. Above all other considerations, your choice of professional product partner is the single most important decision to make. Aside from the efficacy, quality and longevity of their products, consider how much your chosen brand innovates, and whether they have a keen eye for trends and wider fashion influences. You need to have a good understanding of how you will be supported in your partnership in terms of marketing, PR and customer services and, in particular, find out how much ongoing training your prospective partner offers, as this is essential to elevating your nail treatments. A combination of these elements will ensure that your guests benefit from a premium nail service. In the long term, this will elevate your nail offering from those of high street salons and ensure you maintain a competitive edge. In terms of design, consider the positioning of your nail area and decide on the type of space you want to create – from buzzy and sociable to a relaxing retreat. Ensure the space appeals to both men and women by using a neutral, but warm palette. Leading interior designers have recently moved away from the ‘chichi’ aesthetic of black chandeliers, white lacquer and gilt frames in nail areas, towards a more organic and natural environment. This can be achieved through a variety of flourishes across floor finishes and wall coverings. Here, we assess all aspects of spa nail service delivery, from initial concepts and retail displays to the latest sales innovations and the type of space created, to ensure your guest experience is both enhanced and elevated. Clockwise from above right: Indulgent services at House Spa at Dormy House, UK; nude shades from OPI; urban styling at a Champneys City Spa; wellbeing for feet by Bastien Gonzalez; chic nail area design at Coworth Park spa, UK

European Spa would like to thank the following companies for their contribution to this guide: •G ERRARD INTERNATIONAL • COTY UK INC. • SWEET SQUARED • SPARCSTUDIO

LOCATION, LIGHTING AND DESIGN

THE ULTIMATE IN COMFORT

Nail spaces should be designed for the highest level of functionality, but also be made as beautiful as possible. As a naturally theatrical and sociable space, a location close to the reception area means it will be at the front of the guest journey. Consider operational elements, such as good ventilation and an uncluttered working space, as well as access to electrical points and water. Try to avoid making the lighting too clinical, but ensure there is sufficient light for therapists to work efficiently and with utter precision. Ensure the area has built-in cupboards for clean and dirty towels, and that each therapist has ample room to perform their treatments in comfort. A small waiting area smoothes the guest journey and helps when catering for larger groups of pamper party guests. Also, partial glazing or extendable screens can help the area remain attractive to the onlooker without disturbing the serenity of the spa.

A high-quality nail service pivots on the finer details, so the furniture and fittings within your nails space should be as comfortable and luxurious as possible. The guest experience is paramount so your decor should invite guests to stay and enjoy what is on offer. Favour armchair seating over stools and ensure all chairs and tables are at the right level for manicure treatments to be performed ergonomically. Similarly, pedicure areas should be comfortable for both guests and therapists, so consider where guests can put their hands or feet and ensure that the entire space is well ventilated. Wherever possible, combine operational ease and innovation. Investing in multi-functional treatment chairs or beds can help to maximise your space while enabling guests to enjoy different treatments at the same time – for example, a hair or brow treatment can be completed while nails are being perfected.

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Expert Guide Luxurious nail services

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SALES, SERVICE AND RETAIL

SOCIABILITY OR RELAXATION?

Ensure your brand partners fit with your spa’s overall aesthetic; a champagne or premium gin brand can provide a sense of indulgence and the opportunity to create great display and retailing opportunities. Quality education means that, as well as product knowledge and treatment delivery, therapists should be able to deliver gentle but enthusiastic post-treatment advice. Make your nail area work harder for you by combining makeup and facial treatments with nail services or offering bespoke packages or specialist gift sets supported by marketing materials from your partners. In quieter months of the year, providing incentives or making seasonal adjustments to your menu will help to drive revenue. Finally, whether its an armoire or a larger, standalone space, a constantly evolving, highly visible retail boutique can really boost your profits. Where space is limited, a capsule collection of seasonal nail polishes can be placed at each station.

Whether it is a sociable, engaging nails space or one focused on relaxation and indulgence, ensure the environment appeals to both genders by opting for greys, reds, or turquoise shades over ‘boudoir’ decor. With male treatments continuing to rise in popularity, an adjoining barbershop area with a multi-functional chair could encourage men to experience other treatments while enjoying their manicure. Consider repurposing any redundant space as a ‘VIP Beauty Suite’ to be hired out as a party area offering nail services and other beauty treatments. Combining offerings, such as brow services while gel nails are soaked off, can introduce new parts of your menu to existing clients. Some spas provide both a buzzy, social space and a relaxing retreat by placing a sociable manicure area near the spa’s reception, with a separate, screened pedicure space further into the spa.

Expert Guide Promotion

CND Sweet Squared is home to a portfolio of best-in-show professional nail brands including CND, CND Shellac, Vinylux, CND SPA, CND Creative Play, Lecenté Glitters, :YOURS Stamping Plates and Minx

Samantha Sweet

What makes your products special? CND Shellac will always be the product that truly revolutionised the nail industry – the original long-wear semi-permanent nail colour. For 37 years, CND has prided itself on being a leading professional-only, innovative and fashion-forward brand. Every one of our new products undergoes rigorous testing in our R&D lab before being launched and promoted with strong educational support.

Tell us about the latest spa treatments you have formulated? Along with the reformulated CND Vinylux Weekly Polish, which now includes a Caring Complex to pamper the natural nail, CND Spa’s newest lotions are now available in handy miniatures. Fragrances can be ‘cocktailed’ during mani/pedi treatments for a truly bespoke experience – guests can then purchase their favourite blends to enjoy at home. What training and support do you offer spa teams? We offer designated education ambassadors throughout the UK and Ireland to nurture spa teams. We also offer special buy-in packages, including a suite of marketing collateral for spas to use, while our business development managers offer advice and support from the get-go and beyond. What should spas look for in a nails partner? A supplier who can deliver in marketing, sales, education, distribution and PR support, and who is dedicated to serving professionals only. Look for a well-known and respected partner – ultimately, seek to work with a brand that you love. How are your products influenced by changing trends? Remaining at the forefront of beauty trends is essential to retain customer confidence. For example, our recent reformulation of Vinylux Weekly Polish answers the modern consumer’s desire for beauty products with a multitude of protective benefits. Each and every CND collection is carefully curated and developed through close ties with Fashion Week shows across the globe. How do your products enhance the spa experience? Manicure and pedicure treatments can be tailored to each client’s mood for an even more luxurious and bespoke experience. CND Spa products deliver beautiful botanical blends in a selection of earthy, floral and sugar-sweet scents to delight the senses – the perfect way to upgrade the spa experience. How do your products support therapists? Professional-only brands support therapists by offering exclusivity – our products can’t be purchased on the high street. We continue to support and serve the professional nail community with the latest and greatest in technology and innovation. What’s next for CND’s nails offering? This year sees the introduction of the newly-reinvented CND Vinylux Weekly Polish, with its innovative new formula and Italian-designed, ergonomic brush for improved application.

What the experts say... Knowledge is power: Invest in quality education and ensure your spa team are continuously updated in brand, product, treatment and skill knowledge. Be passionate about your brands: Your clients trust you, they’ll love what you love, so selecting a high-quality brand with products you personally admire will ensure you promote them with passion. Rock the retail: Create a branded experience for your clients. Ensure prices are easy to see and read; provide testers for a sensory experience and PR collateral to showcase who is using your brand.

UK SPA CLIENTS INCLUDE: The Malvern Spa, Worcestershire Malmaison Birmingham, West Midlands Hotel Du Vin Birmingham, West Midlands St. Bride’s Hotel and Spa, Pembrokeshire Bluestone Resort, Pembrokeshire Ragdale Hall, Leicestershire CND Distributed exclusively by Sweet Squared in the UK and Ireland www.sweetsquared.com

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NOW YOU CAN HAVE

BEAUTY & CARE WITHOUT COMPROMISE Meet the first ever long wear polish fusing Keratin, Vitamin E, Jojoba oil and a gel-like shine for a chip resistant 7-day wear. Caring color for the best week ever.

NEW CND™ VINYLUX ™. COLOUR WITH CARE.

NEW FORMULA U RS

sweetsquared.com Distributed exclusively in the UK and Ireland with Love and Respect by Sweet Squared

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Expert Guide Promotion

JESSICA COSMETICS Formulated by celebrated US manicurist Jessica Vartoughian, and successfully launched in the UK by Susan Gerrard 26 years ago, Jessica Cosmetics is a global leader in professional natural nailcare

Susan Gerrard

What makes your products so special? As an award-winning brand, Jessica is committed to offering exceptional quality and innovation that continues to inspire and excite. With ‘clean beauty’ being buzzwords for 2018, we’re proud to say our colours are cruelty-free, vegan-friendly and ‘7-free’, meaning they are produced without formaldehyde, formaldehyde resin, toluene, DBP, camphor, xylene or ethyl tosylamide.

Tell us about the latest spa treatments you have formulated? With spring here and the royal wedding to look forward to, our latest collections are influenced by ‘happy thoughts’ with shades that express optimism and vitality. Our La Vie En Rose collection includes six pretty pinks and nudes that lighten the mood, creating a sophisticated, understated set of healthy-looking nails.

What the experts say... Know your products: Knowing your products is key to outstanding customer service and effective retail. Refresher training is crucial as the industry is constantly changing. Sell yourself: As you perform a treatment, talk to your clients with conviction about the products being used and how they can keep their nails looking good between appointments. Make the most of every client: Combining treatments helps to sell other services. For example, makeup or brow shaping can be offered while gels are being soaked off. This saves time and is a clever way to introduce other services to existing clients.

UK SPA CLIENTS INCLUDE: Champneys Spas and Resorts Celtic Manor, South Wales Pennyhill Park, Surrey Nirvana Spa, West Berkshire Rudding Park, North Yorkshire Chewton Glen, Hampshire Jessica Distributed by Gerrard International www.gerrardinternational.com

What training and support do you offer spa teams? Gerrard International is a highly-respected training provider in the nail industry, offering a range of courses from refresher to advanced training in manicure, pedicure and GELeration. Our education is aimed at the qualified professional (trained to the equivalent of NVQ Level 2) and offers more than a simple manicure, it’s about learning a technique. What should spas look for in a nails partner? Look for a prestige professional brand that offers a full range of nailcare with exceptional service, an unbeatable colour choice and a solution for every client’s need. Your chosen partner should be dedicated to supporting you to fulfil your business needs, offering excellent customer care, marketing support and education. How are your products influenced by changing trends? Jessica’s US product development team follows global trend forecasts to deliver fashion-forward spring, summer and autumn/winter nail collections each year. Working closely with the US, Gerrard international’s onsite PR and marketing teams pay close attention to market trends. How do your products enhance the spa experience? Luxurious and personalised nail treatments are a perfect match for the spa environment. Finishing touches leave clients pampered from top to toe; combinations such as a manicure with thermal mittens, or a leg massage using the uplifting lemongrass Zenspa range, complete the whole spa experience. How do your products support therapists? Jessica’s high-performance colour and award-winning formulas for unbeatable results come in professional sizes and refills packaged with the therapist’s ease of use in mind. What’s next for Jessica’s nails offering? With a focus on bolder, more liberated colours for summer, Jessica continues to innovate with new treatments and products. We recently launched Thick Top Coat for a volumising, dazzling shine look, a welcome addition to our existing top coats.

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Expert Guide Promotion

OPI With a heritage rooted in the creation of iconic colours and industry-leading technology, OPI is a professional choice for high-quality and performance nail products delivering the optimal manicure and pedicure experience.

Lisa Bennett

What makes your products special? Our unparalleled research facilities in Hollywood, California, ensure OPI customers are the most up-to-date and innovative professionals worldwide. Our shades change multiple times each year through the introduction of new seasonal collections and promotions, creating excitement and anticipation in discovering what’s new with each campaign.

Tell us about the latest spa treatments you have formulated? OPI’s ProSpa manicure and pedicure range has been created using premium products developed specifically for hands and feet. Designed to nourish and protect skin while helping to fight the signs of ageing at the source, it is the first professional salon skincare line to bring the quality and efficacy of facial skincare to premium products developed specifically for hands and feet. What training and support do you offer spas? We have a dedicated team of educators who provide initial training and ongoing support. We believe education is vital, not only in product knowledge and treatment protocol, but also in retail, upselling and aftercare.

What the experts say... Maximise retail potential: Use point-of-sale materials in the retail and treatment areas to start conversations with guests and trigger sales. Small but perfect: Mini packs of colour and care polishes are a great option as an introduction to your brand essentials or for travel. Find a match: Always match your shades in all formats. This way, you can retail the chosen colour of your client to use in other occasions or top up if needed.

UK SPA CLIENTS INCLUDE: Gleneagles Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort, Perthshire Seaham Hall Hotel and Spa, Co. Durham Thornton Hall Hotel and Spa, Cheshire Ragdale Hall, Leicestershire Wyboston Lakes Y Spa, Bedfordshire Lifehouse Spa & Hotel, Essex OPI Distributed by Coty UK, Inc www.trade.opiuk.com

What should spas look for in a nails partner? You need a recognised brand that provides great service and customer care as well as the best products and training. Also, consider retail and link selling – for example, OPI shades are available throughout three colour options, so a client can have a colour on their toes in GelColor and the co-ordinating Infinite Shine lacquer on their fingers, or purchase a matching lacquer. How are your products influenced by changing trends? We have been a market leader for many years because we follow our ever-evolving market carefully, listening to our spas, salons and therapists, and also to our consumers. In terms of fashion colours and effects, we have four trend-driven collections available each year in our famously quirkily-named colours. How do your products enhance the spa experience? The scent of our products is fresh and the products feel luxurious, with amazingly effective ingredients such as cupuaçu, a Brazilian super fruit that contains nine essential fatty acids and free-radical-fighting anti-oxidants. How do your products support therapists? Great products and training make the therapist’s job much easier as they are able to confidently target problem areas, as well as upgrade and retail to meet a range of businesses objectives. Amazing products and treatments lead to happy spa guests and therapists, which allows the spa to thrive and grow. What’s next for OPI’s nails offering? Our latest launch is Chrome Effects in both lacquer and GelColor, while our Lisbon colour collection has been welcomed with excitement from therapists and their clients alike.

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Inspired by Facial Skin Care. Perfected for Hands and Feet. learn more at TRADE.OPIUK.com

Expert Guide Luxurious nail services

B-LINE HEALTH AND BEAUTY B-Line was created by Annette Foley-Craigen with a vision to raise the profile of footcare as an essential investment in overall health and wellbeing “I created B-Line Health and Beauty because I believe feet are the gateway to the psyche and their condition can be a good indicator of general health. “When I founded the brand, I realised there was no comprehensive footcare range that combined functionality with a touch of luxury. Annette Foley-Craigen “Consequently, I made it my mission to educate therapists and the wider public not only about the importance of good quality, regular footcare but also the benefits this could bring to their businesses. “Initial consultation and inspection of the feet is a crucial part of any pedicure but can often be overlooked. Of course, we want the client to feel special and pampered, but the therapist is well placed to establish the condition of the feet (and nails), drawing attention to any possible contra-indications. “B-Line’s products can enhance the spa experience in multiple ways. All our products, whether for feet, body or hands, have been designed to stimulate the senses, making a B-Line pedicure a satisfying experience for both therapists and clients – it really is a fusion of health and beauty.”

What the experts say... Comprehensive knowledge: Ensure therapists are thoroughly trained in the efficacy of the products they use, their features and benefits. Ideally they should use the brand themselves and have a real passion for it. Post-treatment: After a treatment, therapists should highlight one ‘must-have’ product that will offer maximum benefits at home rather than confusing guests with a lengthy list of possibilities. Discount delight: Offer a voucher with each treatment to encourage clients to buy one full-size product, perhaps at half-price, linked to their specific needs.

UK SPA CLIENTS INCLUDE: Ragdale Hall Health Hydro and Spa, Leicestershire Eden Hall Day Spa, Nottinghamshire B-LINE HEALTH AND BEAUTY www.b-linebeauty.com

BGA CORP

Based in Paris, BGA Corp manages the four brands created by globally renowned ‘foot virtuoso’ Bastien Gonzalez: PEDI: MANI: CURE, Reverence de Bastien, BGA Insoles and Foot Fetiche “When I founded BGA Corp, I wanted to create an experience for guests rather than just a pedicure. “A Bastien pedicure is more than a medical pedicure, as all Bastien Gonzalez treatments are, because they combine wellbeing with elements of medical knowledge and beauty enhancement. “From our base in Paris, we Bastien Gonzalez manage the four brands I have created: PEDI: MANI: CURE Studio by Bastien Gonzalez, which is found in many of the finest hotel spas around the world; our cosmetic range, Reverence de Bastien, which accompanies a newly launched beauty ritual; BGA Insoles, an exclusive concept focused on reducing foot pain; and our new cosmetic brand Foot Fetiche. “Within spas, for me, the key value comes with the education of the guest and spa clients. In particular, spas should look for results-driven treatments. “Highly-qualified spa therapists at our partner locations are supported by our strong brand that is purely results-driven. Our products, combined with our unique, award-winning professional techniques, mean that Bastien Gonzalez treatments go beyond offering a five-star experience for spa guests.”

What the experts say...

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Combine concepts: Creating a treatment package that includes a complementary foot massage is a clever way to encourage your guests to try something new. Cross-pollination: When considering how to incorporate luxury pedicure services into your spa’s menu, consider other, related sectors, such as fitness, to cross-promote the benefits of a foot treatment after a workout session. Workshop: Encourage your guests to become part of a luxury workshop and put on a regular ‘pedicure show’ to highlight the many benefits of a superior pedicure treatment.

SPA CLIENTS INCLUDE: Mandarin Oriental London, UK Mandarin Oriental Barcelona, Spain Hotel Métropole, Monte Carlo, Monaco BGA CORP www.bastiengonzalez.com

Expert Guide Luxurious nail services

MARGARET DABBS LONDON Margaret Dabbs London is a globally recognised brand specialising in credible, results-driven feet, hands and leg products as well as manicure, pedicure and leg treatments for both men and women “I’ve always been determined and eager to learn more, which is why I founded my company. “Once I qualified as a podiatrist, I found I had a knack for diagnosing and treating common foot complaints, and quickly pioneered techniques to give people feet that were not only pain-free but also looked as Margaret Dabb good as new, fusing the health and beauty concept together for the first time. “I worked in doctors’ surgeries before opening my first consulting room in 1998, followed by my first clinic, in Marylebone, in December 2008. “We specialise in expert professional medical pedicures that will deal with most foot problems and leave the feet healthy and visibly improved. “The medical element is so important as feet go through the ageing process in exactly the same way as the face. The skin thins, the subcutaneous fat is lost and sweat glands reduce in effectiveness, which makes it so important to re-introduce lost moisture into the skin of the feet. “Unlike the face, feet that have been looked after properly, not only look visibly better, but also feel amazing and much improved.”

What the experts say... Results drive revenue: A results-driven product range that is beautifying, anti-ageing and luxurious, but also effective on a treatment level, will create a new revenue stream for hands, feet and legs. Creatively combine: Use your luxury nails treatment menu to fuse together the best of medical with the best of beauty. Innovate: Look for luxurious and innovative, highly-concentrated ingredients that will provide excellent treatment results for both men and women.

SPA CLIENTS INCLUDE: Adare Manor, Co. Limerick, Ireland Sandy Lane, Barbados Spa Vilnius, Lithuania MARGARET DABBS www.margaretdabbs.co.uk

FOOTLOGIX

Created by Katharin von Gavel in 2007, Footlogix is the world’s first and only ‘Pediceutical’ footcare product to address the challenging needs of today’s consumer “I developed Footlogix to address an unmet, increasing need for products that target skin and nail conditions of the feet. I wanted to offer clients long-lasting results, beyond the temporary superficial fix of salves and lotions. “Footlogix can be used to enhance the spa pedicure Katharin von Gavel service, the basic pedicure and the men’s pedicure, as well as medi-pedi styles of service for seniors and diabetics. “With the growing popularity of pedicures we see a broad cross-section of consumers coming to spas today, and it is essential that spas provide knowledgeable and educated professionals who can offer a hygienic and safe pedicure. “Our products are uniquely formulated with revolutionary technologies to provide an exceptional footcare experience and achieve transformational results. “Technicians using our professional range of products have the ability to elevate pedicures to a new standard of excellence, while Footlogix products are easy to use and cost-effective.”

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What the experts say... Credibility first: Establish credibility with your clients by offering a professional consultation that helps to identify any skin and nail conditions or concerns. Add-in bonus: Incorporate Footlogix professional products into your pedicure service to allow the client to see and feel the immediate and long-lasting effects of the product. This creates the desire to purchase the retail product to maintain the results between pedicures. Programme for success: Discuss an ongoing homecare programme with your clients to ensure return visits as well as opening the door to future Footlogix homecare purchases.

UK SPA CLIENTS INCLUDE: Third Space, London Cedar Falls Health Farm, Somerset FOOTLOGIX Supplied by Louella Belle www.louellabelle.co.uk

Spas Masseria San Domenico, Italy

The elegant pool and relaxation areas at Masseria San Domenico Spa & Thalassotherapy Centre are positioned under a retractable glass roof that floods the space with light

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Spas Masseria San Domenico, Italy

Made in the Mediterranean Puglia’s first five-star boutique hotel, Masseria San Domenico, has become the region’s foremost thalassotherapy spa and wellness destination, offering its UNESCO-protected diet concept to international wellness travellers R E P OR T BY H EL L ENA B A R NE S

et among great swathes of olive groves, fruit trees and verdant land, with the Mediterranean Sea sweeping from its gated entrance around the spectacular 60-acre estate, Masseria San Domenico is home to a unique boutique hotel, spa and thalassotherapy centre. The historic Puglian property, in the easternmost region of Italy’s southern heel, dates back to the 15th century when it was used by the Knights of Malta as a watchtower across the Italian peninsula, bordering both the Ionian and Adriatic Seas. In 1996, this coastal residence was carefully restored by the owning Melpignano family to become Puglia’s original five-star masseria, or farmhouse hotel. It was managing director Marisa Melpignano who first had the vision to transform this expansive summer home into a luxury spa hotel. Two decades later, Masseria San Domenico is an exclusive Mediterranean lifestyle retreat presenting authentic experiences and Italian thalassotherapy on an intimate level for an international clientele. “We opened when Puglia was a little-known destination, now it is flourishing as ‘the new Tuscany’,” says Marisa Melpignano, speaking

“We were the very first to bring thalassotherapy to this region and emphasis has always been on the purity of our seawater, which lies just 500 metres away in the Adriatic.” Marisa Melpignano Owner and managing director, Masseria San Domenico

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exclusively to European Spa. “There were no five-star hotels in the region, so we created a place that I hoped would be treasured for its beauty and authenticity,” she adds. “Of course, Italians were more accustomed to glittering ‘grande dame’ hotels than rural locations, however high-profile, which presented a great challenge for us to introduce something very special. Once we achieved five-star status, our prime objective was to put all our energies into creating a place for combined Mediterranean wellness.” Already a long-time advocate of traditional French thalassotherapy and its health benefits, Melpignano believed that this philosophy would be perfectly suited to the sunnier climes and dietary nature of her homeland. She set about merging its natural assets, including abundant seawater and bountiful fresh food, to authenticate Masseria San Domenico’s core Mediterranean values.

A sense of space

With just 40 bedrooms, the boutique hotel is almost diminutive in its five-star setting; framed by the sea with ancient stonework buildings, a private beach, an outdoor free-form saltwater pool and tropical gardens overlooking the golf course, its courtyards are laden with blossom and fruit trees that surround the resort’s three restaurants, Il Fico, San Domenico and La Nassa. At the heart of the central plaza is the three-storey Masseria San Domenico Spa and Thalassotherapy Centre, complete with 10 adjoining spa bedrooms for residents undertaking treatment programmes. The ground floor entrance guides guests through

Spas Masseria San Domenico, Italy

a Grecian-inspired interior centred around the magnificent 11.5m, 37°C natural seawater thalassotherapy pool with adjoining Kneipp area and 10 thalassotherapy rooms. These treatment areas incorporate a wide range of specialist equipment, including a Thalgocéane seawater bath, a Thalgo Jet massage bed, a Thalatherm body wrap machine, a Douce D’Affusion seawater shower and an exclusive cold water Hydrobike. Treatments in this area use only San Domenico-produced olive oil, salt and seawater, together with Thalgo Marine products to deliver a truly unique brand of thalassotherapy. Downstairs, the 2,000sqm spa has a further eight treatment rooms presenting two distinctly different offerings. Eastern therapies, such as Ayurvedic Shirodhara, shiatsu and holistic massage methods are delivered alongside results-driven beauty treatments for the face and body provided by Carita and Mimi Luzon. Below ground, guests will find sauna and steam rooms, changing rooms and a Technogym-equipped fitness studio, while on the spa’s upper level a retractable

“The Mediterranean diet model goes beyond counting calories and overthrows the concept of diet as privation and sacrifice, promoting instead the physical and psychological wellbeing of a person.” Dr Agostino Grassi Nutritional consultant and secretary, Mediterranean Diet Foundation

glass atrium ceiling immerses the pool and relaxation areas with warm, energising light.

First for thalasso

“We were the very first to bring thalassotherapy to this region and the emphasis has always been on the purity of our seawater, which lies just 500 metres away in the Adriatic,” says Melpignano. “It is pumped from 400m below ground and arrives at 20°C in Masseria San Domenico, where it is purified and heated to 37/38°C for our spa pools and thalasso rooms. It has such a rich concentration of saline and purity of seaweed content,” she adds proudly. The spa’s 22-strong team provides an impressive range of high-level treatments across its one-to-three-day experiences, packaged as Relax, Beauty, Anti-Age, Purify, Him, and most recently, Sculpt & Shape. A combined spa and beauty sequence for detox, draining, shaping and thalassotherapy, this latter programme alone comprises 10 different elements, including algotherapy, Thalgocéane and Pressotherapy. In addition to its exceptional thalasso services, Masseria San Domenico presents no less than 20 individual body treatments, six deep relaxation rituals and 21 beauty facials, all created with product partners handpicked by Melpignano. “We chose Thalgo because it is a pioneer in world-class thalassotherapy spas,” she states. “Another French brand, Carita, renowned for facial and body treatments, fits perfectly with our sophisticated guest profile, as does

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Spas Masseria San Domenico, Italy

Mimi Luzon, who is an amazing Italian skin wellbeing expert, best known for her famous 24-carat Pure Gold Mask. “We work closely with our partners to create signature treatments and ensure our therapists receive the very best training. Of course, we are also incredibly proud of our own Masseria San Domenico techniques and products.” While treatment programmes are performed with expert timing and efficiency, the spa’s ambiance is supremely relaxed. “We are not strict here, it is an adult-only resort with a peaceful atmosphere created for Masseria San Domenico residents,” says Melpignano. “We also invite day guests from our other properties; Masseria Cimino, Masseria Le Carrube, Borgo Egnazia, and San Domenico House in Chelsea, London. This is an extension of my home and we welcome everyone as family.”

A taste of nature Capitalising on its geographical bounty, the family-owned and managed business successfully delivers the healing benefits of a Mediterranean lifestyle by embracing all things traditional as well as international trends. “Our locally-harvested food is the lifeblood of this region – it is who we are and a part of everything we do,” states

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Opposite page: A rustic terrace overlooks the free-form saltwater pool, the olive and lemon tree-lined gardens and golf course Clockwise from top: A guest enjoys the Douce D’Affusion treatment shower; yoga practise alongside the Mediterranean Sea; homegrown Puglian ingredients are a key element of the spa’s approach to wellness

Melpignano, whose mission to promote Puglia’s healthy and sustainable lifestyle was further inspired when she began working on specialised spa menus with Dr Agostino Grassi, a nutritional consultant and secretary to the not-for-profit Mediterranean Diet Foundation. Dividing his time between San Domenico in the south and a specialised obesity clinic in northern Italy, Grassi is renowned for developing methods for maintaining good health. Incorporating historic research, scientific analysis and fitness concepts, one of his most notable innovations is the Hydrobike, which is immersed in ice cold water to increase circulation during treatment programmes. Helping to maximise results through the process of thermogenesis, this method is said to trigger the body’s reactions to lose weight by turning food calories into body heat. According to Grassi, the term ‘Mediterranean diet’ is a relatively recent one, introduced for the first time in 1970 by the late American Professor Ancel Keys. “However,” he adds, “its roots date back to ancient Greece and the Roman

Spas Masseria San Domenico, Italy

From top right: A thalassotherapy treatment utilising seawater rich in minerals; al fresco dining at the pool side; Masseria San Domenico benefits from three restaurants – Il Fico, San Domenico and La Nassa (pictured)

Empire, when it was essentially based on the triad of bread, oil and wine. Now the Mediterranean diet is declared under UNESCO’S protection as an intangible cultural heritage.”

Everything in balance

Drawing expertise from UNESCO diet studies that confirm its ability to help tackle heart disease, prevent cognitive decline and improve life expectancy, Melpignano and Grassi have devised an entire menu concept based on Mediterrannean dietary principles to frame San Domenico’s spa programmes. “The diet of typical recipes, flavours and specialities provides a low-calorie regimen for weight loss,” says Grassi. “Most importantly, however, it is the lifestyle aspect, where interaction with the social environment, respect for the land, biodiversity, conservation and enhancement of traditions are promoted – this is instrumental in defining the true impact.” Grassi explains that the Mediterranean diet model goes beyond counting calories and rejects the concept of diet as privation and sacrifice, promoting instead the physical and psychological wellbeing of a person. “It is a diet that balances itself; low in refined foods and high in simple ingredients, arriving on the table unrefined, as found in nature,” he notes. “Locally cultivated produce, especially rich in micronutrients with protective effects, such as vitamins, fibre and essential minerals, strengthen the immune system, shield from many diseases and delay the ageing process. “Carbohydrates are also a key element of this dietary pattern, but they are elected based on their glycaemic content, preferring those that have the lowest insulin response. Fundamentally, the Mediterranean diet, as it is known today, is a combination of the food habits in use among populations overlooking the Mediterranean, characterised by the presence and cultivation of olive trees, and olive oil is the only type of fat consumed in this diet.” Indeed, Masseria San Domenico’s own ‘liquid gold’ is its home-produced olive oil, some 30,000 litres of which is made each year for the resort’s restaurant and spa menus. “Olive oil is a highly valuable catalyst in this diet and our ultrasound pressing technique retains cell benefits, vitamins and minerals, improving quality and yield,” adds Grassi.

“What we are witnessing now is a larger lifestyle-driven sector travelling for longer blocks of time in a quest for authentic experiences.” Damaris Tenza Wellness consultant, Masseria San Domenico

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Spas Masseria San Domenico, Italy

Clockwise from above: Dr Agostino Grassi’s Hydrobike is immersed in ice cold water to trigger the body’s reactions to lose weight by turning food calories into body heat; The coastal golf course offers a relaxing way to exercise; a 24-carat Pure Gold Mask from Italian skin wellbeing expert Mimi Luzon

Guests booking the bespoke Mediterranean diet programmes, which run over three-to-seven days, are all supervised by Grassi, who provides nutritional advice and tailor-made diet plans for each guest. Additional health checks are available, including his Biologic Nutritional Consultation, which evaluates the guest’s current status and prioritises health goals via full body composition and metabolism analysis. These are offered alongside electrocardiograms, hydro-colon therapy, blood tests and food intolerance tests.

A global attraction

While the Melpignano family is confident that the spa’s sustainable philosophy and Mediterranean lifestyle concept puts Masseria San Domenico firmly on the international travel map, the appointment of Damaris Tenza as wellness consultant is driving business on a more commercial level. “Travel trends have changed completely and people are looking for health-giving holidays as a lifestyle enhancement,” says Tenza. “Masseria San Domenico has been one of Puglia’s best-kept secrets and although it is an intimate offering, in terms of marketing, the time has come to share this brand with a wider audience across world markets.” According to Tenza, who has worked with leading spas including Spain’s SHA Wellness and Marbella Club, ‘authentic’ experiences are highly sought after throughout Europe and beyond. “What we are witnessing now is a larger lifestyle-driven sector travelling for longer blocks of time in order to immerse themselves in cultural and wellness experiential holidays,” she elaborates. “Our strong markets are Italy, the US and the UK, booking an equal 30% share each, with 10% of business coming in from other European countries. However, we are gaining significant global ground with bookings from Asia and

Australia; long-haul visitors to Italy who want to experience the journey through Venice, Rome, and now Puglia.” Undoubtedly, a complete overhaul of Masseria San Domenico’s international profile and marketing assets has also opened international channels and business associations. “We work closely with worldwide tour operators and leading wellness travel organisations to ensure that Masseria San Domenico is authentic as a spa destination in its own right, yet agile enough to adapt to be competitive in travel markets,” concludes Tenza. “It has been a thrilling year and we are already fully booked for the summer.” Masseria San Domenico Spa and Thalassotherapy Centre +39 0804827769 | www.masseriasandomenico.com Owner and managing director: Marisa Melpignano Spa size: 2,000sqm Spa team: 22 Treatment rooms: 18 Product partners: Carita, Thalgo, Mimi Luzon, OPI, Essie, Trucco Thermal spa: Thalgo, CMW di Ing Barbieri Spa design: Ing Symeos Fermanoglou Other suppliers: Technogym, Medical Sud, Fisiomedica benessere, Esco More details of UNESCO’s research into the Mediterranean diet are available at https://ich.unesco.org/en/Rl/mediterranean-diet-00884

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Editor’s choice

Anantara launches Ayurveda-inspired holistic programmes Personalised guided wellness journeys aim to offer guests the benefits of Ayurveda to promote long-term health improvements SRI LANKA: Luxury hotel brand Anantara has rolled out a quartet of seven-day wellness programmes designed to balance and cultivate mental and physical health at its Peace Haven Tangalle resort. Based on the guiding philosophies of Ayurveda, a Sanskrit word meaning ‘the science of life’, and working on the belief that health and wellness rely on a balance between the mind, body, and spirit, the initiative is the latest from Anantara’s Balance Wellness concept, which encourages personalised journeys of wellbeing. Working with a resident doctor, each of the four programmes provide tailor-made sessions and treatments according to a guest’s doshas and vikruti, or imbalances, at the time of their visit. The programmes are: Inner Harmony, to calm the mind and body; Deep Sleep, offering time to relax, heal and rebuild; Natural Weight, discovering the Ayurvedic approach to healthy weight management and vitality; and Rebuilding Detox, enhancing natural

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energy after detoxifying physically and mentally. Spa director Dr Jayachandran Thampi told European Spa: “The philosophy of Ayurveda brings in new thinking and ways of living. Looking at the ‘now’, it helps us create the ‘new’. So, our programmes, based on and inspired by Ayurveda, are interpreted for the modern man and woman, helping them to understand through experience, and to then implement them in their personal lives.”

“Being holistic and integrated programmes, they focus on lifestyle changes and understanding them through experience.” Dr Jayachandran Thampi Spa director

The week-long curriculum involves coaching with personal yogis, life coaches, trainers and chefs, along with guided excursions to local Buddhist temples. It culminates with a long-term plan for continued wellness beyond the stay that includes personal consultations either via phone or email to ensure a long-term road map is followed. “Being holistic and integrated programmes, they focus on lifestyle changes and understanding them through experience,” added Thampi. “These programmes are not designed as a curative method for any disease or condition. Instead, they initiate a person to the healing process via gently-assisted experiences based on natural methods and principles. “With this system, it is the person and not the problem that is assisted. Irrespective of the chosen programme, the deeper needs of that client are addressed, aligning them to nature, while at the same time providing solutions for their particular concerns.” www.tangalle.anantara.com

Wellness Trends & developments

Fùre exploits the power of the land ITALY: The renowned Borgo Egnazia has turned to its outstanding location in Puglia to provide a comprehensive sport and spa programme designed to reinvigorate the body. Fùre, which translates as ‘outside’, combines Vair Spa treatments with an eclectic range of activities, including olive-tree climbing, running across the varied terrain of the Apulian shoreline and countryside, traditional local dancing, known as pizzica, Iyengar yoga and juggling classes. “We wanted to create a joyful retreat, offering a wonderful Aldo Melpignano and wild opportunity to experience sport and freedom in pure contact with nature,” said owner and general manager Aldo Melpignano. A three-day, four-night package is tailored to less active participants in search of a short, energetic uplift, while the six-day, seven-night programme is more challenging. Both are complemented by use of the Vair Spa facilities that include a sauna, a Turkish bath, an indoor pool and gym, as well as a personalised menu created in conjunction with executive chef, Domingo Schingaro. Melpignano added: “With these programmes the power of the land is being exploited 360°. They will leave guests re-energised and feeling happier.”

Sound Lounge sanctuary’s message is as clear as crystal

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UK: The London-based Crystal Sound Lounge is enhancing its position as a sanctuary in the city by providing peaceful, stress-reducing rituals soundtracked by crystal bowls and gongs. The studio is the brainchild of former Channel Four television executive Laura Franses, who discovered the benefits of crystal sound bathing after developing a rare eye condition triggered by excessive digital screen time. The Lounge opened in mid-January, with 45-minute sessions conducted via specialists who provide three different types of sound bath. “Sound therapy reduces stress, promotes creativity, and in almost everyone, results in a better night’s sleep, said Franses. “Sound baths also provide many of the benefits of meditation without the same discipline, such as increased focus and clarity, as well as decreased anxiety.” www.crystalsoundlounge.com

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Wellness Trends & developments

Tuning in to all Six Senses GLOBAL: Six Senses is to roll out a new wellness concept across its spas following the success of its initial offering at the spa within the Renaissance Downtown Hotel, Dubai, where six treatment suites are each dedicated to a different sense – sight, sound, touch, taste, smell and intuition. “There were several reasons why this concept was developed, the main one being that working with vibrations and a heightening of the senses would give a much more profound effect than just the massage alone,” explained Anna Bjurstam, Six Senses vice-president of spas and wellness. The Sound Suite incorporates a So-Sound Legato Healing Lounger that helps ease stress via vibrations, while the Sight Suite uses chromotherapy in a steam room, digital images projected overhead in the sauna, and a relaxation area with circadian rhythm lighting originally developed for NASA. The Touch Suite houses a flotation pod while a variety of traditional hammam therapies and an alchemy bar are the main features in the Taste Suite. Elsewhere, guests can blend their own bespoke products in the Smell Suite, including body scrubs and wraps, and in the Beyond Suite, singing bowl meditation and chakra balancing, along with yoga, stretching and breathing techniques help balance mind and body. www.sixsenses.com

Delivering a debut for Equilibrium

Mauli superfood for brain and beauty

EUROPE: UK-based doctor Alice Webb and fitness consultant Tom Harris, who runs The Fitness Gypsy personal training business, have unveiled what they hope will be the first of numerous wellness retreats across Europe over the coming years. In June, under the name Equilibrium Wellness Retreats, they will address all aspects of healthy living during a stay at the Cal Reiet Holistic Retreat in Mallorca. Prior to the creation of a six-day programme to suit individual health needs, guests will undergo optional blood screening for kidney and liver function; cholesterol; diabetes; hormonal, vitamin and iron status; and inflammation levels. The package also includes a daily schedule of exercise classes, nature hikes, daily yoga and meditation, one personal training session, two 45-minute massages with an Elemis therapist, educational talks and 12 months of post-retreat online support from Harris. “The ethos behind our retreats is that of total wellness, and with our team of experts, including doctors, nutritionists, personal trainers, yoga practitioners and therapists, we offer our clients the complete package in luxurious locations,” Harris told European Spa. The plan is for a second retreat in an as-yet-unnamed location in October this year, before expanding to five per year across Europe.

UK: Mauli Rituals, an independent London-based company that creates all-natural and organic sensorial blends led by Ayurvedic principles, has created a new range of herbal superfood powders. Sprinkled onto food or mixed into liquids, the trio of alchemies are for brain and beauty; to transform; and for strength and spirit. Mauli has recently promoted the product in Harrods, SpaceNK apothecary stores and Net-a-porter, while it is also available at spas in which it has a presence Anita Kaushal – including Bulgari in London and Milan; Craigellachie Hotel, Scotland; Loma de Vida Hotel, San Antonio and Stowe Mountain Lodge, Vermont, both in the US. Co-founder Anita Kaushal told European Spa: “Following Ayurvedic methods and using only wild harvested Indian herbs, our alchemies are the missing piece to our range to help achieve total equilibrium to mind, body and overall health.”

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Wellness Trends & developments

Healing in the heart of Tuscany ITALY: The Renaissance Tuscany II Ciocco Resort & Spa, situated in the Tuscan countryside, has launched a Natural Healing Retreat to maximise the benefits of its stunning location. The three-night programme will run throughout the year and includes forest bathing as well as an immune-system-boosting cookery class using local plant-based protein, spelt. “We are a forward-thinking hotel and we strive to keep up to date with the latest available wellness treatments to ensure our customers are offered pioneering and on-trend experiences,” said general manager Georges Midleje. “Our programming reflects our locality and uses the landscape and the local culture. We felt the benefits of forest bathing and plant-based foods were something our guests would really benefit from.” The forest bathing experience follows a natural path immersed in greenery, while the cookery classes with head chef Alessandro Manfredini engage guests in the authentic culture of this particular part of Tuscany. “This retreat has been specially created to relax and reduce stress, lower heart rate and blood pressure, and give the immune system a natural boost,” Midleje added. www.renaissancetuscany.com

Global Wellness Day is child’s play GLOBAL: The seventh Global Wellness Day will this year focus on children in an attempt to ensure they become happy, healthy adults of tomorrow. The event, on June 9, will provide awareness of the effects of three major global issues on children between the ages of two and seven – depression, obesity and crime. One of the major offshoots from the day-long celebration will be a daily five-minute workshop for pre-school children. A weekly one-hour wellness class will also be held for older Belgin Aksoy Berkin children in junior schools, focusing on three key wellbeing subjects – self-love, breathing and mindfulness. “We go to school from the age of two, hoping the education system is going to help prepare us for our future,” Global Wellness Day founder Belgin Aksoy Berkin told European Spa. “But nobody is teaching us how to live, how to breathe, how to be mindful and how to love ourselves as these are things that are essential to be a happy adult in the future. “I believe that focusing on physical and mental wellness at such an early age is so important that it can even help decrease the worldwide depression and obesity rates, even crime rates.” This year more than 100 countries are involved in Global Wellness Day, with events planned at over 4,000 different locations. www.globalwellnessday.org

Wellness wisdom

Three ways to wellbeing

The lowdown on building resilience, social running and app-based stress reduction Book: Renowned for his blend of neuroscience, positive psychology and contemplative practices, Dr Rick Hanson’s latest book, Resilient, explains how to overcome the brain’s negative bias and build the foundations of wellbeing by harnessing the power of positive experiences to build inner strength. www.rickhanson.net

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App: Zwift has connected half a million cyclists to socialise, train and race in virtual 3D environments. Now it is aiming for similar success in the running community with Zwift Run Free Access, providing a complete training solution for runners of all abilities, wherever they may be. www.zwift.com

App: Happify has been designed to help reduce stress and anxiety, and overcome negative thoughts via a range of tools, programmes and techniques developed by scientists and experts in positive psychology, mindfulness and cognitive behavioural therapy. www.happify.com

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Wellness Trends & developments

Wellbeing master

Clear out your bad energy Louise Smart has over 25 years’ clinical, corporate and spa experience, working with clients worldwide to offer energy-clearing packages, immersion programmes, emotional detox, executive stress programmes and sexual abuse recovery. As well as running workshops and retreats her Inner Wealth audio series is a profound resource for the online holistic community. We asked her about different ways of mastering energy and the benefits it can bring. What do you mean by ‘energy mastery’? Energy mastery is a proprietary process of becoming whole. Wholeness is inclusive, so it’s about mastering inner listening skills and making sense of the constant messaging and guidance coming from the interconnecting energies of our entire being – our body, mind, emotions and soul. If we reject any aspect of these energies, we cut ourselves off from our wholeness – from the innate intelligence, power, wisdom, goodness, love, abundance and security that we often think originates outside of ourselves until we learn how to go within. Why is it important to clear or reset one’s energy? Our energy can become blocked or stagnant because, over time, we may have suppressed, denied or rejected something we didn’t want or like. It’s important to clear typical blocking energies like anger, resentment or hatred because they distort the normal healthy flow of energy, which then inhibits our sense of wholeness and wellbeing. When we intentionally clear the blockages, we reset our energy to flow with more vitality and we feel a lot lighter and freer.

Native inspiration for Ritz-Carlton treatments MALAYSIA: The Ritz-Carlton Langkawi has created a unique spa setting and treatment menu for its guests. Fronted by the Andaman Sea, treatments take place in cocoon-shaped rooms perched over the water, resembling Malay bubus, intricately-woven fish traps used for centuries by local fishermen. Architect Philippe Villeroux, from resort design specialists Tropical Area, told European Spa: “Langkawi started off as a fishing village and has since bloomed into a multi-million-dollar tourist spot. A fish trap is a perfect representation of its humble beginnings.” The treatments, performed by therapists educated in the practices of local shamans and midwives, include a Mystical Ocean and Earth Ritual that incorporates rich marine mud and heated volcanic rocks from the Machinchang formation. Elsewhere, the Mandi Bunga Inspired Ritual is influenced by bathing originated in Malay royal palaces that were performed to dispel bad energy. Director of spa Wendy Stephen said: “By resurrecting the home remedies inspired by the local midwives, it means indigenous botanicals and raw ingredients have become the main products.” www.ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/malaysia/langkawi

What are the short and long-term benefits? Short-term benefits are immediate relief from stress and emotion that can overwhelm accompanying typical life challenges, like a break-up or a crushing professional disappointment. The longer-term benefits are self-empowerment and the ability to confidently handle yourself using a dependable energy mastery skillset, particularly when life presents its inevitable challenges. Can spas educate on the fundamentals of ‘wholeness’ and energy mastery? The spa industry is in a pivotal position to attract and influence the growing number of people who are energetically and spiritually aware, and hungry to learn more and keep investing in themselves. Educating spa guests on wholeness with energy mastery programmes will help them make practical use of what they already know, to keep expanding their capacity and interest and to become whole. www.emotional-detox.com

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World Wellness Weekend GLOBAL: More than 1,000 venues European Spa: “There will be at least across the globe will be offering a one free activity, for one hour, with that range of activities free of charge as activity so compelling, so creative and part of World Wellness Weekend, so much fun that hopefully, people will in the hope of inspiring people to return and continue – and we are urging become active and get fit. people to take along a friend or family Following the first Wellness member to become a wellness buddy.” Weekend event, which took place The numerous properties involved in France and Belgium last year, in the programme, that include spas, the second edition has expanded its Jean-Guy de Gabriac gyms, dance halls and dojos, will organise reach, with almost 40 countries so far involved an hour-long fitness or wellbeing activity for on September 22-23, including Australia, free, such as yoga, meditation, zumba, dance, Canada, Dubai, Mexico, New Zealand, the UK cooking or creative workshops, for their guests and the United States. and members. Concept organiser Jean-Guy de Gabriac, the founder of Tip Touch International, told www.world-wellness-weekend.org

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HI-MACS solid surface soultions evolve with Structura and Concrete collections The Concrete Collection from LG Hausys is available in five shades to offer a neutral canvas for designers to build upon. Suitable for a wide range of spa environments, from reception desks and changing rooms to wet areas and wallcoverings, HI-MACS is made from a combination of acrylic, minerals and natural Martin Saxby pigment and is completely non-porous. The surfaces are thermoformed to allow for curved shaping, and its seamless surfaces are extremely hygienic. Also new to the HI-MACS portfolio is Structura, a textured, 3D surface that can take on virtually any pattern and is ideally suited for use as a

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wallcovering. Available in 10 colours, design options range from the hexagonal Hive to the pebble-like feel of Zen and the relief detail of Dunes. “Our spa clients want high-performance surfaces that are going to last and HI-MACS can be used for virtually any horizontal, vertical or angled surface, indoors and outside,” says LG Hausys’ Europe country manager, Martin Saxby. “Our natural acrylic stone can be used throughout any public or private space, and won’t fade, yellow or otherwise deteriorate. HI-MACS can be formed into adventurous curves or unusual angles and it can be lit from within to let surfaces and cabinetry glow.” Furthermore, LG Hausys’ Ultra-Thermoforming process now allows for more dramatic shaping of the HI-MACS material to create much sharper curves and organic designs. www.himacs.eu

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Style Design, form & function

Gharieni u PediSpa Square

A new, refreshed design has been unveiled for Gharieni’s innovative, multi-functional PediSpa Square treatment bed. Suitable for a wide range of services including pedicures, manicures, hair services, facials and makeup application, the revamped PediSpa features a shorter, narrower base and lower armrests to ensure therapists can perform treatments in an ergonomic working space. A more optimal seating position has been created so guests can benefit from deeper relaxation. There is also a new control display, which is elegantly integrated in the bed’s Corian surface to enable wireless flexibility, However, the PediSpa Square retains a manual switch to enable its five actuators to be moved into desired positions as required.

www.gharieni.com

Crown Sports Lockers p PerfectSense surfacing

New from bespoke furniture manufacturer and installer Crown Sports Lockers is its PerfectSense surfacing solution. Designed to resist fingermarks and reduce maintenance requirements, PerfectSense is part of Crown’s portfolio of furniture solutions, available in a wide range of materials and surface options and suitable for a variety of spa environments. From tailored wet and dry changing areas, to washrooms, treatment room furniture, nailbar cabinets, towel storage and reception desks, each individual design solution from Crown is fully British Standard and ISO-certified as well as being robust and made from the highest quality materials.

www.crownsportslockers.co.uk

Treesse p Fusion 230

Ideal for spa suites, the Fusion 230 infinity-edge bath, from Italian company Treesse, features a patented ‘ghost system’ by designer Marc Sadler, so-called because of the distinctive, concealed whirlpool jets hidden within an enveloping transparent band – the illuminated ‘ghost line’ around the interior of the bath. The lighting on the Fusion 230 can be set on one colour or programmed to gently scroll through an entire spectrum, while CrystalTech material was chosen to form subtly rounded corners and angles which capture the light and allow for greater visual impact and flow efficiency. Offering a water temperature stabiliser, disinfection function, hydromassage and Bluetooth options, the Fusion 230 can be synchronised with one of Treese’s ‘Big Bang’ sound and colour diffuser lamps, which enables guests to enjoy music and chromotherapy for a totally immersive wellness experience.

www.gruppotres.it

Ritmonio p Diametro 35 series

The Diametro 35 series of luxury bathroom products from Ritmonio combines traditional and modern aesthetics to make it ideal for a spa’s changing areas. Recently installed within the suite bathrooms and spa area at the Hotel Milano Alpen Resort in the Dolomites (pictured), the Diametro 35 series includes bath taps, basin taps and mixers. The collection is eco-friendly with water-saving features including a flow rate of less than nine litres per minute to encourage the responsible use of water.

www.ritmonio.it

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Style Design, form & function

La Beeby u New uniform collection

Leading workwear supplier La Beeby has unveiled a range of new, high-performance uniform designs as well as a stylish Mulberry colour option. Combining style and comfort, La Beeby’s mission to ‘ban the bland’ in spa uniforms encompasses fashion-conscious tunics, trousers, dresses and accessories in durable fabrics that withstand repeated and rigorous use. New for 2018, the Erin Tunic (far right) is available in black, navy and plum, and embraces the cold-shoulder trend while allowing room for movement with a working popper fastening on the sleeve. The Grace Tunic and the Anna Dress (centre) co-ordinate and feature a pleat detail. Available in black, grey and mulberry shades, they are ideal for those who like to look subtly different but still part of the same team. Finally, the Lyla Tunic (shown left) has a front fastening with sparkly crystal buttons for a touch of glamour, and can be supplied in black, grey, mulberry and navy.

www.labeeby.co.uk

Style Focus

Celebrating a century of craftsmanship with furnishings designed to enhance the 360° spa experience

To mark its 100th year of business in 2018, professional furniture specialist REM’s Centenary Range aims to offer ‘finesse, quality and contemporary styling’

Michael Roach

As a leading British manufacturer, REM supplies a wide range of products for the spa, barber and beauty industries, from nail stations, styling chairs and storage solutions to massage couches and reception desks. The company’s sales director Michael Roach discusses its latest launch and further plans to mark this landmark centenary year.

What makes REM’s products unique?

We craft our range of furniture in the heart of the Pennines, in our Lancashire factory. Each piece is handmade by time-served craftsmen in more than

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20 different fabric and laminate finishes. Also, our three-year warranty offers total peace of mind.

Tell us more about your centenary plans

Our manufacturing heritage dates back to 1918 and we’ve just launched a range of furniture to celebrate this milestone. Consisting of a Pedispa, Manicure Table, Wash Unit, Reception Desk, Seating, a Styling Mirror and a Hydraulic Chair, each piece has been carefully designed in-house and styled to reflect REM’s considerable reputation for quality within the spa, beauty and salon industries.

What does REM offer spas?

With every spa having its own unique needs and requirements, we offer the opportunity to create

bespoke furniture to best suit an individual business. Our team of dedicated designers can help with styling, decor, interior layouts and creative furniture designs for a range of environments, from treatment rooms and pedicure and manicure areas to reception and relaxation spaces.

What are the latest trends for spa interiors?

We are witnessing an increase in wider services offered alongside the traditional spa offering, with a particular focus on hair salons and barbershops, both of which have been requested in recent spa designs drafted by our team. All of these services are becoming important for the discerning spa client looking for a full, 360° spa experience. www.rem.co.uk

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Style Design, form & function

Matrix q S-Force Performance Trainer

The new S-Force Performance Trainer leverages intelligent biomechanics to offer extremely rigorous high-intensity interval training options. The user-defined path fits each person’s individual stride while a magnetic system automatically increases resistance to create challenging, progressive workouts. Two active positions – upright and acceleration – mean a range of leg muscles can be targeted for a more complete workout, while the trainer’s quiet, smooth-moving build includes a backlit console for feedback, quick keys for instant access and an ergonomically contoured seat. Low-impact movement patterns reduce stress on joints while the self-powered design means the S-Force can be placed wherever it works best within a gym space.

www.matrixfitness.com

Sonneman – A Way of Light p Cantina and Liquid

Combining the centuries-old technique of glass blowing with contemporary LED technology, two new statement light pendants from lighting designer Robert Sonneman would provide a striking focal point to a reception or relaxation area. Suspended from a thin stainless-steel cable, Cantina features a flask-like, oval profile and rotates randomly to create an asymmetric relationship with its surroundings. The light can be hung individually, in multiples, or with spreaders to form large diameter arrangements. It is available in three sizes with glass options of clear, smoke fade or poured white. Liquid’s meteor-like glass volume (pictured) features surfaces that have been contoured to look like melting glass. Available in the same three glass options, the glass-blowing technique ensures originality as no two products are the same.

www.sonnemanawayoflight.com Kettal u Mesh by Patricia Urquiola

Designed by Spanish architect Patricia Urquiola for Kettal, the Mesh collection of outdoor furniture has recently expanded to include a new daybed and two chaises longues. Designed to be reminiscent of building facades that ‘let in light and air while keeping the elements out’, Mesh combines durable natural and industrial materials, hard and soft surfaces and transparent and opaque volumes to create furniture based on contrasts. Expanded metal has been used for the sofa backrests and tables, providing support for the cushions and table tops, which are made from wood, aluminium or marble. The cushion fabric is from the Terrain outdoor collection by Doshi Levien, while the decorative cushions (pictured) are from Kettal’s Geometrics range.

www.kettal.com

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Style Design, form & function

Oakworks u Legacy

The new Legacy treatment table is the latest launch from leading American luxury spa equipment-maker Oakworks. The hand-welded Legacy is a highly functional, ergonomic statement piece and its distressed frame and clean, elegant lines offer a unique design element equally suited to contemporary or more classic spa treatment rooms. The Legacy’s features include a heated surface and it can be configured for flat massage use or as a multi-treatment bed. It has a four-section top as well as Oakworks ABC (Adjustable Body Comfort) system, which takes the pressure off clients’ chests and backs when lowered. A range of finishes are available, including rough-brushed steel, oyster white or satin black.

www.oakworks.com

Porcelanosa q Noken Black Matt

Featuring a contemporary, sleek appearance, the new Black Matt range from Porcelanosa bathroom specialist Noken places a strong emphasis on versatile design and sophistication. Ideal for use in changing rooms or within a spa suite, the Black Matt range includes taps, shower heads and shower equipment, while the distinctive black shade provides both a decorative and highly creative finish. If designers want to create a ‘total black’ bathroom environment, the Black Matt finish can also be found in other equipment including the concealed thermostatic shower from the Urban collection, the Jet NK Logic and the Cota teleshower and support.

www.porcelanosa.com

Modern Garden Company p Wave Lounger

Specialising in high quality, design-led furniture, the elegant Wave Lounger from Modern Garden Company would make a strong statement in a spa’s outdoor area or poolside. The Wave Lounger’s robust upholstery is created by hand-weaving Paola Lenti’s Rope braid directly onto the steel frame while the furniture’s material has been extensively researched and developed to ensure both its longevity and high performance. Said to be perfect for spa environments where heat, humidity, water and UV damage need to be considered, the loungers are easy to clean and can be supplied in a range of sophisticated and vibrant colourways.

www.moderngarden.co.uk

Every issue of European Spa showcases the best in spa equipment design, textiles and furnishings. Contact Sarah Todd on +44 (0) 115 950 4748 or email sarah.todd@spapublishing.com

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Your next spa project starts here.

Unrivalled service and an exceptional selection of beautifully crafted, high-quality furniture and equipment. Ellisons will ensure your next spa project is a success. From expertly designed nail stations to luxurious pedicure chairs, our extensive range of nail salon furniture will make the perfect addition to any spa or salon. With a portfolio showcasing a host of high-profile spa refits, our Spa Partner team can help with every aspect of your project, making sure it runs smoothly, onÂ time and to budget.

ellisons.co.uk

As industry leaders, we supply professional nail salon furniture from leading brands such as REM, Living Earth Crafts, Salon Ambience and more. Our furniture provides excellent quality and ergonomical designs, allowing you to enhance the ease and efficiency of every nail service. Bespoke options are also available, allowing you to cater to every treatment need.

Make the most of our yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; of experience today and contact your dedicated Spa Partner team to discuss your vision in more detail: spapartner@ellisons.co.uk +44 (0)24 7636 9114 Find out how we can add value to your next spa project by downloading our Spa Guide at www.ellisons.co.uk/spaguide

Renew your subscription today! As the premier magazine for the spa industry, European Spa is an invaluable expert resource for successful spa and wellness investors, managers, developers, designers and suppliers.

Stay informed. Be Inspired. ●

International news, innovations and investment trends

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Interviews and expert knowledge from industry leaders

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Design inspiration and new equipment launches

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The latest product, treatment and wellness intelligence

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Exclusive reports from new spa and wellness projects

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Previews of the best industry events and meetings

How to subscribe... You can renew your professional subscription online or check your renewal date by emailing our subscriptions team at: subscribe@spapublishing.com or visit www.europeanspamagazine.com/subscribe Subscription rates (Six issues, including postage & packing): UK: £65.00 Europe: £85.00 Rest of World: £110.00

Between the covers

We connect you with the best brands serving the spa and wellness sector. This issue of European Spa features the latest expertise, news and developments from: [comfort zone]

LG Hausys

104

Alessandro 73

Dr Burgener

Life Fitness

Amala 36

Elemental Herbology

Majestic 69

Aqua Platinum

Elemis

4, 22, 46

marocMaroc 36

Aromatherapy Associates

Ellisons 111

Margaret Dabbs London

Art et Floritude

Equilibrium Wellness Retreats

Mary Cohr

Aukett Swanke

Esco 94

Massage Envy

Spa Find

B-Line Health & beauty

ESPA

Matis 48

Spa Find Skincare

Essie 94

Matrix

Spa Life

Fischer Travel Enterprises

Mauli Rituals

Babor

23, 28, 54, 65

28, 54, 70, 73, 74, 77

dpa Lighting Consultants

21, 40

36, 50, OBC

Barr + Wray

30, 33

BC Softwear

Footlogix 87

Mii 39

BGA Corp

Gentlemen’s Tonic

Mimi Luzon

Biologique Recherche

17, 21, 67

36, 108

Gerrard International

20, 78, 82

Gharieni

Brow by Mii

Gibberd Architects

Modern Garden Company

Gielly Green

Monica LImonta

Global Wellness Summit

Carita

22, 90, 93

Carol Joy

Caudalie

17, 21, 28, 37, 106

Minx 80

Book4Time 63 20

Mio Shibuya

33 110

Silvera 40 SMC Leisure

So-Sound Solutions

Sonneman – A Way of Light Sothys

108 28, 52

SpaFest 96 Sparcstudio SPATEC Europe

29, 78 25

Starpool 22 Stas Doyer

Subtle Energies

MoroccanTan 50

Sweet Squared

54, 78, 80

Swiss Perfection

2, 47

Happify 100

Mr Sauna

Haslauer 76

Natura Bissé

ClarinsMen 47

HL Concepts

Natural Spa Factory

Clodagh 17

Holzbauer & Partner

Neuman Aqua

CND

28, 46, 80, 81

Hydrobike 90

Nilo 22

ila 17

Oakworks

Comphy 40

ishga 54

OPI

36, 78, 84, 85

Treesse 106

Coty UK Inc.

Jessica

Pevonia 47

Trucco 94 Veretech 21

Cinq Mondes

Coco Wolf

78, 84

Crown Sports Lockers

106

105 73, 74, 76

20, 28, 82, 83

103 6, 20, 45

55, 110

Joseph Caspari

Pino Spa

DaleSauna 109

Just For Tummies

Porcelanosa

Dario Cazzaniga

Kerstin Florian

Davide Macullo Architects

Kettal 108

Ré-Consulting 26

KLAFS

REM

Dead Sea Spa Magik Decléor

13, 22, 47

9 21, 74

Premier Software

73, 74, 76 101, 110 115 41, 107

L’Oréal 22

ResortSuite 44 Resources for Leisure Assets

Dennis Irvine Studio

La Beeby

Dernier & Hamlyn

LAD Architects

49, 107

Devin Consulting

Lemi 95

Symmetria 21 Technogym Thalgo The Fitness Gypsy

Vinoble Voya

17, 74, 90, 94 28, 46, 90 99

70, 73, 74, 76 11, 21, 50

wax:one 54 Wisinger Fasting

Wolfgang Vanek

73, 74, 76

Ritmonio 106

Woodway 36

RKF Luxury Linens

Zwift 100

21, 40

To discuss any bespoke advertising requirements, please contact the sales team at European Spa, T: +44 (0) 115 950 4748.

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In conversation with

IRENE FORTE Rocco Forte Hotels’ group project director outlines her development of its spa and fitness portfolio, and discusses her own wellness travel quests “Wellness shouldn’t be a restriction. It’s about having balance in your life.” We live in a world where we’re constantly connected and over-stressed – wellness is about finding different things that make you feel good, happy and enable you to achieve balance. It’s about eating well, having a regular routine, doing exercise you love. I eat well most of the time, exercise regularly, meditate, see mindfulness coaches and have acupuncture. I also enjoy travel, and that includes a crazy trip each year. Last year, I went to the Himalayas, camping in -30˚C temperatures. We were rewarded with beautiful walks on which we saw the most amazing snow leopards.

“I have always been passionate about fitness.” This stems from my father, a total fitness fanatic who has competed in triathlons and Ironman events. I then became interested in healthy eating and beauty. Eventually I asked if I could look after the spa and fitness offering within the group as I wanted to try and drive it forward. My father’s first reaction was: ‘Is it going to cost a lot of money?’ But then he told me to just get on with it.

“I had to learn about spa to increase my knowledge, and quite quickly.” My first project was our flagship spa in Sicily, Verdura Resort, where we reviewed everything. I worked with a consultant, Amy Goller Keller, from Wellness & Beauty Consulting, who taught me so much. The challenge was that no one had really analysed it before. The spa managers were left very much to their own devices, which worked well in spas where we had strong managers, but not so well in others where it wasn’t so well controlled. Success also depended very much on the buy-in from the general managers. If they believed in what they were doing, great, but if they had no interest in wellness it was very difficult.

“I wanted to change the perception that spa was a luxury add-on for our guests.” As spa provided just two percent of our business it was somewhat overlooked. In 2016, I created a spa concept called Rocco Forte Spas which included Rocco Forte Fitness, initially ensuring our gyms were updated with the latest Technogym equipment, as well as offering activities like sightseeing, jogging, and training. I also introduced a fitness clothing collection with a company called Back Label, with products made from sustainable, organic materials, which is now being sold in all of our spas.

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Irene Forte joined Rocco Forte Hotels in 2013 as quality standards executive, establishing a new service philosophy and brand values, before becoming brand manager a year later, and group project director last year.

“We were using different product lines, so unity and clarity was a key goal.” Continuing this development, we then created Rocco Forte Rituals, our signature spa treatments, followed by the Forte Organics skincare line, which uses ingredients grown in our Verdura Resort in Sicily, including olive oil, almond oil, aloe vera, hibiscus and prickly pear. Then we had Rocco Forte Nourish, our healthy food offering. We partnered with nutritionists in all of our hotels to create healthy menus, in-room dining and minibar options for our guests. At Verdura Resort only, we also have Rocco Forte Health, focusing on five programmes – fit, slim, detox, anti-age and relax. Overall, it means our spa figures have improved to four percent.

“We are now taking it to the next level with a wider wellness concept.” Currently, we are opening new spas in new hotels and will focus on the skincare line, which will soon be boosted by a further launch. Previously there has been very little investment in spa infrastructure, but now we have great teams in place, a great concept, and we’re ready to start investing in our spas. www.roccofortehotels.com

Irene Forte was speaking to Ian Parkes

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Dive into a new system

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“Although Core is a complete business management system, its report function is essential to the success of House Spa. Whether it is end-of day reports, staff utilisation, monitoring retail sales or pinpointing which treatments are most popular, all can be accessed easily to enable us to concentrate on what makes House Spa so different the guest experience.” Zoe Douglas House Spa Manager, Dormy House

The chosen brand of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading spas and skincare experts.

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