Spa Industry Awards Top Spas in US

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Parent Category: Travel Info

Category: Things To Do

Published on Tuesday, 04 September 2012 09:22

Written by Elaine Ing

At the gorgeous Gotham Hall in NYC, The International SPA Association (ISPA) hosted its 18th annual ISPA Media Event.  ISPA is the leading source for all things related to the spa industry ranging from gathering key statistics (revenue, spa visits, the number of spa locations, total employment in the industry and square footage) to helping those in the spa industry promote their latest innovations. These annual statistics have become essential for many of those in the hospitality business. The shift towards spa services is growing with such huge momentum that it’s one of the key promotional highlights for many resorts.

In its latest 2012 survey (for 2011 year-end), the spa continued its upward trend with an increase in all areas – revenue rose +4.5% YOY, spa visits +4.1% YOY, total employees +0.2% YOY (remarkable considering that the official overall national unemployment rate has yet to abate).  Square footage for spas increased +0.8% YOY.

The annual gathering included trained personnel from ISPA member spas and resource partners who provided a sampling of their latest and unique innovations to members of leading beauty, business and travel media.

“ISPA is thrilled to bring together the spa industry and the media to one location to showcase the spas’ cutting edge and innovative treatments,” said ISPA’s President Lynne McNees. “We know that spas are creating great experiences, relieving stress and improving wellbeing and we are excited to help tell that story.”

Miraval Resort and Spa

Miraval is known for its one-of-a-kind spa treatments.  It continues this reputation by introducing The “Naga Thai Massage” is probably the most innovative treatment I have yet to in the US.  The massage evolves from the healing principals of the Thai massage which involves stretching and deep massage.  The Naga Thai Massage starts off like a traditional massage, basic stretches but then becomes so much more. The therapist uses strands of richly colored silk suspended from above, sort of like a pulley system, as both as an extension of their body and wrapping and supporting your body, taking you deeper into stretches and releasing restrictions that impair full movement.  For someone like me who chronically suffers from back and shoulder pain, it brought instant relief. (http://www.miravalresorts.com)

Clarins

French-origin and world-renowned Clarins is found at better spas. The exclusive Clarins-inspired treatments at Miraval uses Clarins’ PRO Formula products. The energizing leg “Path to Renewal” treatment uses aromatherapy to balance and restore energy. (www.clarins.com)

Aspira Spa

Is located in Wisconsin and was named #4 USA Spa in 2011 by Spas of America. “The Indigo Journey” is their latest specialty treatment consisting of a body mask of clays and creams, a balancing massage using chromatherapy and ending with their signature Elderberry facial. (http://www.aspiraspa.com)

Massage Envy Spa

 The spa is available in a number of cities.  The “Sugar Foot Scrub” is a foot massage featuring towel cleansing, a lavender sugar scrub exfoliation and a moisturizing body butter finish. (http://www.massageenvy.com)

Kohler Waters Spa

As I learned the most effective way for moisturizers to penetrate the skin is through regular exfoliation.  The “Lavender Parfait Hand Treatment,” a hand exfoliation uses a honey-lavender salt scrub that is soothing, calming and healing – all at the same time.  (http://www.americanclubresort.com/spa/spa_index.html)

Mohonk Mountain House

Just named #2 Resort Spa in the US by Conde Nast Traveler Magazine 2012

If the spectacular view of the Lake Mohonk still doesn’t lull you into a tranquil sleep, try Mohonk’s “Solutions for Modern Living: Attainable Sleep!” an aromatic massage followed by a customized Dead Sea salt bath soak. (http://www.mohonk.com)

The Spa at Regent Palms

With a picture postcard tropical setting, it’s hard not to be swept away.  Those who prefer to be pampered an try The Spa’s “Oriental Essence Foot Ceremony” treatment, an exfoliating spiced marmalade scrub followed by an energizing massage using smooth pebbles wrapped in fragrant bags soaked in warm oil. (http://www.regenthotels.com/EN/Palms)

Gwinganna Lifestyle Retreat

Offered its unique “Australian Spirit of Sound,” a meditation treatment that incorporates basalt stones, massage techniques all while choreographed to indigenous Australian music and sounds of nature. (http://www.gwinganna.com)

Deborah Lippmann

For the woman on the go, the “Mini-Mani” treatment is an express nail service. (http://lippmanncollection.com/)

HydraFacial by Edge Systems Corporation

Is a non-invasive, non-surgical procedure that delivers instant results. The machine is a resurfacing treatment that provides cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, and hydration for your face with a cocktail of antioxidants, peptides, and hyaluronic acid. Hydrafacial treatment uses a uniquely designed spiral tip to gently exfoliate with water based serums to cleanse, exfoliate and rebuild, leaving skin perfectly cleansed and hydrated, without the need for harsh mechanical exfoliants.

Precor Fitness Equipment

Demonstrated their new innovation, the “AMT® with Open Stride,” (Adaptive Motion Trainer) which helps you burn calories at a higher rate than any other cardio equipment. (http://www.precor.com/vertical)

With the kids now in school, give yourself a treat!

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