• [Travel with a Purpose] Your Complete Holistic Healing Journey at The Farm at San Benito, the Philippines

  Located in Lipa City in Batangas, The Farm at San Benito encompasses all the luxurious features of a premium medical wellness resort. Its tastefully-appointed suites and villas echo a sophisticated design concept that marries the opulence of nature and the subtle elegance of traditional Filipino-Oriental sensibilities. Nestled in a 51-hectare forested property, The Farm at San Benito is an exclusive estate of lush gardens and lagoons, of quiet tree groves and crisp, fresh air, with strong positive energy radiating around the property. Yet, beyond its paradisal beauty and the inspiring sensations it evokes, lies The Farm’s true essence: it is a facility for medical wellness and a safe sanctuary for healing. Its programs, aimed to help the body and mind achieve optimum health and performance, have been meticulously designed following foundational science-based protocols and guided by evidence. At a time when health consciousness has become a widespread realization, more and more people are traveling to achieve a state of mind and body that is fit and well-balanced. Some travel to seek treatment for their illnesses. Others do so as a preventive measure to keep their health at an optimum level. Traveling with a purpose that is focused on health and wellness attests to the phenomenal growth of conscious travelers. The Farm at San Benito is at the forefront of medical wellness tourism Celebrating two decades of life-transformative healing holidays, it has distinguished itself as one of the world’s best, winning over 80 accolades from prestigious international bodies such as 'Best Wellness Resort in the World.' It cupped the coveted ‘Haute Grandeur Global Excellence Award from the Haute Grandeur Global Spa Awards in 2021 receiving a total of 21 awards. Since it’s officially the rainy season in the country, now is the perfect time to detox and cleanse from within. Rain symbolizes purification. At The Farm, you can experience a full immersion into clean living through physical healing in the form of mindful movements and functional fitness activities, medically-guided fasting, and treatments to eliminate toxins from within while restoring the body’s optimum ability to restore nutrients. The Farm offers an ‘Intro to Detox’ program that includes a 3-day medically supervised cleansing program to purge unhealthy elements from the body and mind while providing optimum nutrition. The Farm is also home to a world-renowned Weight Management, Diabetes Prevention & Heart Health Program, which focuses on the management of obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and stress to resolve the root cause of the dysfunction and to bring the body back to a natural state of balance. At The Farm, the wide-ranging compendium of services aimed to address various health and psycho-emotional conditions, are all medically supervised by licensed physicians supported by health professionals, spa therapists, medical acupuncturists, physiotherapists, nutritionists, living food experts, fitness coaches, sound healers, and yoga teachers. The Farm at San Benito is thus a complete and genuine sanctuary—a space of encompassing beauty where the body and mind can heal to return to a state of genuine well-being and spiritual enrichment and inner renewal can be achieved. www.thefarmatsanbenito.com

• [Hot in Thailand] Jungle Bubble: The Elephant Outside the Room at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort

  In a world first, Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort is giving guests a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to spend the night with Thailand’s majestic elephants in their natural habitat while staying in unique transparent Jungle Bubbles. Unfolding across 650,000 square metres of Northern Thailand’s ancient jungle, Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort is perched on a hill overlooking the Mekong and Ruak rivers. The secluded location is uniquely positioned to take in majestic three country views over the confluence of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar, and grazing elephants in the most stunning of natural settings below. Located in the jungle, the two Jungle Bubbles areperched on raised wooden decks offering uninterrupted views of the elephants, as well as stargazing at night. The Jungle Bubbles were custom designed by Eye In The Sky and are constructed with high tech polyester fabric using exclusive Precontraint Serge Ferrari technology to create an milieu in which guests can enjoy an immersive, close-to-nature experience. The well-appointed bubble accommodation is fully air-conditioned, offering 22 square metres of indoor floor space; a 4.5-diameter bedroom and living space with a king bed and seating area under a transparent roof; and an enclosed, nontransparent en-suite shower and vanity. Intimate touches of bathrobes and slippers; crisp white bed linen; regular and feather pillows; and exquisite bathroom amenities provide convenient functions with the comfort of home. A hair dryer, vanity and make up mirror are also provided. Guests at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort can purchase the Jungle Bubble experience as an optional activity and spend the night from dusk till dawn, returning to the hotel in the morning. Rates start from 17,700 Thai Baht per night for two people and include a delectable dinner basket; a fully stocked mini bar; 24-hour in-room dining service; and tea and coffee making facilities. Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort is world famous for its elephant camp that, along with the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation (GTAEF), were set up primarily to help elephants that cannot help themselves: for those that find themselves, through abuse or through circumstance, unable to provide and maintain an income for themselves, for their mahouts and their families. Here appropriate activities are designed that allow the elephant caretakers to raise the funds they need to look after the elephants without forcing them into activities they might not enjoy. The introduction of the Jungle Bubbles at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort is another world first that can be scaled and shared with other elephant camps to allow them to give a subset of elephants – those that prefer to only meet their mahouts and are bonded into friendship groups – a natural life in a manner that the elephants enjoy without becoming a financial strain on the operation.

• [Interview] Ms. Dao Huyen – CEO of S.H.E Cosmetics Ltd., Vietnam

  Vietnam has recently become one of the hottest growth markets for beauty and cosmetics in Asia. Wellness Today is fortunate to talk with a Hanoi-based beauty enthusiast and cosmetics dealer Dao Huyen, founder & CEO of S.H.E. Cosmetics Ltd. ▲ Ms. Dao Huyen, founder & CEO of S.H.E. Cosmetics Ltd. [WT] Could you tell us a bit of your background? [DH] I have been working in cosmetics field for more than 5 years. I started as a sales person at a small cosmetics shop. It was about two years ago when I became deeply attracted by cosmetics trading business. At that time, I was working as a sales & marketing manager at a local skincare clinic which sells not only skincare services but also cosmetics products. While working, I found that the Vietnamese cosmetics market was booming but needed to mature as customers were rapidly getting savvy. I soon moved to a Korean cosmetics company in Hanoi and started working as a manager at large. At this company, I was fortunate to get many insights from local distributors and consumers. I found Korean-made cosmetics products were getting high popularity in local market. In early 2018, with the vision of bringing the best cosmetics products mainly from Korea to the Vietnamese customers, I started my own business, S.H.E Cosmetics Ltd., offering OEM ODM services to local enterprises and also sourcing the hottest trend cosmetics from Korea for local distributors in Vietnam. [WT] What do you think about today’s Vietnamese cosmetics market? [DH] The cosmetics consumption in Vietnam is still low compared to neighboring countries like Thailand. However, if you have a better understanding of the characteristics of the country, Vietnam is more promising than any other country. It's really an attractive market. Above all, the percentage of younger people under 35 is 60%. Due to rapid westernization and increased personal social exposure, young people are more interested in their appearance than ever before. The other reason why the Vietnamese market is more attractive is because of the socio-economic role of women who have traditionally been quite active. With the increase in women's income, I am sure, they will spend more money on beauty and cosmetics. I think this is going to happen very quickly. [WT] Specifically, what aspects of beauty consumption expenditure should we pay attention to in Vietnam? [DH] As in other countries, Vietnamese women spend their money in purchasing home care cosmetics products and/or in getting treatments at beauty salons. For home care products, the preference for whitening function or sunscreen is high due to the nature of Vietnam climate. But the problem is that they are very interested in cosmetics, but there are not many people who have enough knowledge about exactly what products to use and how to use them. So the beauty market in Vietnam is characterized by a lot of skin care shops in each neighborhood. Consumers want to receive cosmetics from these shops and receive professional treatment from them. However, there are not many skincare shops that have mastered the techniques to fully understand the products and use them effectively. Of course, I think there will be many improvements over time. [WT] At this point, what parts of Vietnam skin care shops should focus on to evolve themselves? [DH] In a word, differentiation. Many shops now offer similar products and similar services. In order for shops to evolve and be competitive, they must have differentiated technology. If you simply sell cosmetics on the market, you cannot win the competition. And it is also important to have good products to gain trust. In short, arming with good products and good skills is the basis for differentiation, and I think more customers will come to these well-organized shops. [WT] I hear that you are planning to open your skincare shop yourself. Could you elaborate in detail? [DH] Yes, I am currently in contact with various agencies in Korea to provide services that Vietnam consumers really want. I would like to choose an institution that can provide a good selection of products and continue to provide skin care related technology. The key to this plan is to build a solid platform for reliably supporting existing skincare shop operators and new start-ups. I plan to open my first shop by the end of this year. [WT] Thank you for many good comments. Finally, what does the company name S.H.E mean? S.H.E. stands for Safety, High Technology, and Effectiveness. The purpose is to provide customers with a safe product with the latest technology to ensure maximum effectiveness. This name is the company's future mission as well.

• [Travel with a Purpose] Your Complete Holistic Healing Journey at The Farm at San Benito, the Philippines

  Located in Lipa City in Batangas, The Farm at San Benito encompasses all the luxurious features of a premium medical wellness resort. Its tastefully-appointed suites and villas echo a sophisticated design concept that marries the opulence of nature and the subtle elegance of traditional Filipino-Oriental sensibilities. Nestled in a 51-hectare forested property, The Farm at San Benito is an exclusive estate of lush gardens and lagoons, of quiet tree groves and crisp, fresh air, with strong positive energy radiating around the property. Yet, beyond its paradisal beauty and the inspiring sensations it evokes, lies The Farm’s true essence: it is a facility for medical wellness and a safe sanctuary for healing. Its programs, aimed to help the body and mind achieve optimum health and performance, have been meticulously designed following foundational science-based protocols and guided by evidence. At a time when health consciousness has become a widespread realization, more and more people are traveling to achieve a state of mind and body that is fit and well-balanced. Some travel to seek treatment for their illnesses. Others do so as a preventive measure to keep their health at an optimum level. Traveling with a purpose that is focused on health and wellness attests to the phenomenal growth of conscious travelers. The Farm at San Benito is at the forefront of medical wellness tourism Celebrating two decades of life-transformative healing holidays, it has distinguished itself as one of the world’s best, winning over 80 accolades from prestigious international bodies such as 'Best Wellness Resort in the World.' It cupped the coveted ‘Haute Grandeur Global Excellence Award from the Haute Grandeur Global Spa Awards in 2021 receiving a total of 21 awards. Since it’s officially the rainy season in the country, now is the perfect time to detox and cleanse from within. Rain symbolizes purification. At The Farm, you can experience a full immersion into clean living through physical healing in the form of mindful movements and functional fitness activities, medically-guided fasting, and treatments to eliminate toxins from within while restoring the body’s optimum ability to restore nutrients. The Farm offers an ‘Intro to Detox’ program that includes a 3-day medically supervised cleansing program to purge unhealthy elements from the body and mind while providing optimum nutrition. The Farm is also home to a world-renowned Weight Management, Diabetes Prevention & Heart Health Program, which focuses on the management of obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and stress to resolve the root cause of the dysfunction and to bring the body back to a natural state of balance. At The Farm, the wide-ranging compendium of services aimed to address various health and psycho-emotional conditions, are all medically supervised by licensed physicians supported by health professionals, spa therapists, medical acupuncturists, physiotherapists, nutritionists, living food experts, fitness coaches, sound healers, and yoga teachers. The Farm at San Benito is thus a complete and genuine sanctuary—a space of encompassing beauty where the body and mind can heal to return to a state of genuine well-being and spiritual enrichment and inner renewal can be achieved. www.thefarmatsanbenito.com

  • In English
  • Feature

  2022-06-05

• [Hot in Thailand] Jungle Bubble: The Elephant Outside the Room at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort

  In a world first, Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort is giving guests a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to spend the night with Thailand’s majestic elephants in their natural habitat while staying in unique transparent Jungle Bubbles. Unfolding across 650,000 square metres of Northern Thailand’s ancient jungle, Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort is perched on a hill overlooking the Mekong and Ruak rivers. The secluded location is uniquely positioned to take in majestic three country views over the confluence of Thailand, Laos and Myanmar, and grazing elephants in the most stunning of natural settings below. Located in the jungle, the two Jungle Bubbles areperched on raised wooden decks offering uninterrupted views of the elephants, as well as stargazing at night. The Jungle Bubbles were custom designed by Eye In The Sky and are constructed with high tech polyester fabric using exclusive Precontraint Serge Ferrari technology to create an milieu in which guests can enjoy an immersive, close-to-nature experience. The well-appointed bubble accommodation is fully air-conditioned, offering 22 square metres of indoor floor space; a 4.5-diameter bedroom and living space with a king bed and seating area under a transparent roof; and an enclosed, nontransparent en-suite shower and vanity. Intimate touches of bathrobes and slippers; crisp white bed linen; regular and feather pillows; and exquisite bathroom amenities provide convenient functions with the comfort of home. A hair dryer, vanity and make up mirror are also provided. Guests at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort can purchase the Jungle Bubble experience as an optional activity and spend the night from dusk till dawn, returning to the hotel in the morning. Rates start from 17,700 Thai Baht per night for two people and include a delectable dinner basket; a fully stocked mini bar; 24-hour in-room dining service; and tea and coffee making facilities. Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort is world famous for its elephant camp that, along with the Golden Triangle Asian Elephant Foundation (GTAEF), were set up primarily to help elephants that cannot help themselves: for those that find themselves, through abuse or through circumstance, unable to provide and maintain an income for themselves, for their mahouts and their families. Here appropriate activities are designed that allow the elephant caretakers to raise the funds they need to look after the elephants without forcing them into activities they might not enjoy. The introduction of the Jungle Bubbles at Anantara Golden Triangle Elephant Camp & Resort is another world first that can be scaled and shared with other elephant camps to allow them to give a subset of elephants – those that prefer to only meet their mahouts and are bonded into friendship groups – a natural life in a manner that the elephants enjoy without becoming a financial strain on the operation.

  • In English
  • Feature

  2019-12-24

• [Interview] Ms. Dao Huyen – CEO of S.H.E Cosmetics Ltd., Vietnam

  Vietnam has recently become one of the hottest growth markets for beauty and cosmetics in Asia. Wellness Today is fortunate to talk with a Hanoi-based beauty enthusiast and cosmetics dealer Dao Huyen, founder & CEO of S.H.E. Cosmetics Ltd. ▲ Ms. Dao Huyen, founder & CEO of S.H.E. Cosmetics Ltd. [WT] Could you tell us a bit of your background? [DH] I have been working in cosmetics field for more than 5 years. I started as a sales person at a small cosmetics shop. It was about two years ago when I became deeply attracted by cosmetics trading business. At that time, I was working as a sales & marketing manager at a local skincare clinic which sells not only skincare services but also cosmetics products. While working, I found that the Vietnamese cosmetics market was booming but needed to mature as customers were rapidly getting savvy. I soon moved to a Korean cosmetics company in Hanoi and started working as a manager at large. At this company, I was fortunate to get many insights from local distributors and consumers. I found Korean-made cosmetics products were getting high popularity in local market. In early 2018, with the vision of bringing the best cosmetics products mainly from Korea to the Vietnamese customers, I started my own business, S.H.E Cosmetics Ltd., offering OEM ODM services to local enterprises and also sourcing the hottest trend cosmetics from Korea for local distributors in Vietnam. [WT] What do you think about today’s Vietnamese cosmetics market? [DH] The cosmetics consumption in Vietnam is still low compared to neighboring countries like Thailand. However, if you have a better understanding of the characteristics of the country, Vietnam is more promising than any other country. It's really an attractive market. Above all, the percentage of younger people under 35 is 60%. Due to rapid westernization and increased personal social exposure, young people are more interested in their appearance than ever before. The other reason why the Vietnamese market is more attractive is because of the socio-economic role of women who have traditionally been quite active. With the increase in women's income, I am sure, they will spend more money on beauty and cosmetics. I think this is going to happen very quickly. [WT] Specifically, what aspects of beauty consumption expenditure should we pay attention to in Vietnam? [DH] As in other countries, Vietnamese women spend their money in purchasing home care cosmetics products and/or in getting treatments at beauty salons. For home care products, the preference for whitening function or sunscreen is high due to the nature of Vietnam climate. But the problem is that they are very interested in cosmetics, but there are not many people who have enough knowledge about exactly what products to use and how to use them. So the beauty market in Vietnam is characterized by a lot of skin care shops in each neighborhood. Consumers want to receive cosmetics from these shops and receive professional treatment from them. However, there are not many skincare shops that have mastered the techniques to fully understand the products and use them effectively. Of course, I think there will be many improvements over time. [WT] At this point, what parts of Vietnam skin care shops should focus on to evolve themselves? [DH] In a word, differentiation. Many shops now offer similar products and similar services. In order for shops to evolve and be competitive, they must have differentiated technology. If you simply sell cosmetics on the market, you cannot win the competition. And it is also important to have good products to gain trust. In short, arming with good products and good skills is the basis for differentiation, and I think more customers will come to these well-organized shops. [WT] I hear that you are planning to open your skincare shop yourself. Could you elaborate in detail? [DH] Yes, I am currently in contact with various agencies in Korea to provide services that Vietnam consumers really want. I would like to choose an institution that can provide a good selection of products and continue to provide skin care related technology. The key to this plan is to build a solid platform for reliably supporting existing skincare shop operators and new start-ups. I plan to open my first shop by the end of this year. [WT] Thank you for many good comments. Finally, what does the company name S.H.E mean? S.H.E. stands for Safety, High Technology, and Effectiveness. The purpose is to provide customers with a safe product with the latest technology to ensure maximum effectiveness. This name is the company's future mission as well.

  • In English
  • Feature

  2019-04-10

실시간 Feature 기사

• [Interview] Mr. Andrew Jacka, Executive Director of APSWC

  We're fortunate to have the opportunity to chat with a leading Asia-based Spa & Wellness advocate, Andrew Jacka. As Executive Director of the Asia Pacific Spa & Wellness Coalition, President of the Thai Spa Association and the Director of Spa Origins, he is a valuable industry resource who has able to spend a bit of time with Wellness Today. [WT] Asia Pacific Spa & Wellness Coalition (APSWC) is a non-profit organization that supports spa & wellness associations in Asia-Pacific. How does APSWC benefit the regional industry as a whole? The Asia-Pacific Spa & Wellness Coalition (APSWC) was formed in March ’06 – the result of an informal roundtable where 76 industry professionals from across the region gathered in Singapore to map out a development strategy to improve and promote the spa industry for the benefit of all. The roundtable was initiated by the heads of spa associations with a view to bringing the region together; to identify common problems and opportunities, and find ways to improve the business for all. APSWC was officially registered as an association in Singapore in July 2007, with the mission: to act as a bridging mechanism between countries to promote, protect, educate, and develop the spa & wellness industry in the Asia-Pacific region. Since its launch, the Asia-Pacific Spa & Wellness Coalition (APSWC) has grown in size and reputation and now unites 16 associations across 14 countries, with a network extending around the globe. It is a regional body which links the national spa associations of the Asia-Pacific nations. The Coalition (formerly Council) was formed to meet the challenges presented by the evolution and growth of the Asian Pacific spa industry. In addition to gathering and communicating market information and resources, APSWC's planned activities for the region include: identifying and recommending appropriate standards, training resources, and performance benchmarks and establishing a code and best practices format to be adopted throughout the region. Working across a multitude of time zones, with language and cultural issues, and spa industries in varying stages of growth and development, has been a distinct challenge. The regional spa industry events that enabled board members to meet regularly in the early years have all but dissipated, making it even more difficult to maintain the momentum of the coalition. The initial five task forces of People, Products, Planet, Profit and Professionalization has grown to include Traditional Therapies, but the global challenges of recent years has taken its toll, and these are not currently as active as anticipated, however with a planned revamp of our website to make it more interactive my mid 2012, together with the employment of a Secretariat, the coalition will be introducing a paid membership scheme, and will be reviewing its structural and strategic focus as we move forward in an ever changing world. In 2011, together with our strategic research partner, Intelligent Spas, the APSWC initiated the first ever regional research across all 42 Asia Pacific Countries. The full media release of this report can be viewed at:http://www.intelligentspas.com/MediaReleases/News_Release_Regional_Spa_Industry_Report_Asia_Pacific_Apr_2011.asp. The report will be expanded in 2013 with more details, and will include research on the Indian spa market also. The primary focus of the APSWC in keeping with our mission is our Strategic Planning Forum. This ‘by invitation only’ event has been held annually (except in 2012), with delegates from over 20 countries attending to collectively establish a strategic plan for our regional industry. 1st APSWC Spa Forum - Bali, 2007 2nd APSWC Spa Forum – Kuala Lumpur, 2008 3rd APSWC Spa Forum - Bangkok, 2009 4th APSWC Spa Forum – Bangkok, 2010 5th APSWC Spa Forum – Phuket, 2011 6th APSWC Spa Forum – planned for Bangkok, March, 2013 The APSWC has also conducted Spa Study Tours, organizing and escorting 20 spa industry professionals to Nepal in 2009 and more than 30 to Bhutan in 2011. The frequency of these study tours is expected to increase from 2012 as we seek to outsource the planning of these to a strategic partner. The APSWC has been nominated by the AsiaSpa Awards Committee for Spa Association of Year for the past six years, taking out the award in 2006, 2009 and 2010. [WT] The spa & wellness industry has experienced significant growth in recent years. Can the industry sustain similar growth in the coming years? We have already seen a slowing on growth in the mature spa markets, such as Philippines, Thailand & Singapore, but this is only to be expected. Industry growth rates of over 20% annually while to be expected for any new industry that is expanding rapidly, are not stainable in the long term, as saturation or near saturation points are reached. Having said this, there are countries in Asia Pacific (Myanmar, Brunei, Palau etc.), and other parts of the world (i.e. Africa), where spa is still a relatively new phenomenon, and therefore there is plenty of opportunity for growth, or even the development of a unique spa culture in these countries, instead of the ‘International spa culture’, which most countries have adopted. For those that seek to explore the historical basis of their health and wellness traditions, and who are able to ethically incorporate or adopt these into the local spa industry, will be able to continue to enjoy significant growth rates for years to come. Having said this, obviously growth in developing countries for a (healthcare) industry that is still seen as ‘luxury indulgence’ is going to be slow unless it can market itself as a little more ‘mainstream’. Ultimately there is always the opportunity for any entrepreneur who is providing something different to the market place, and with continued promotion of education, standards and innovation within the existing industry, there continues the opportunity for growth, but not at the rate of years past. [WT] Are there certain high-growth markets to watch? In the Asia Pacific region, China and India are definite growth markets, especially China, where there is a strong traditional massage and health care industry, you can reasonably expect a unique Chinese spa concept to emerge in the coming years. Presently new spas in China being operated in hotels are following the international spa model, so will be interesting to see if there really is the development of a Chinese spa concept, of if the industry takes the easy road. Similar opportunities exist in India, where Ayurveda has been exploited by the global spa industry. Reality is coming into play and the understanding that Ayurveda is much more than stream of oil on your forehead or oiling massage – there is a deeper understanding that needs to be reached to appreciate the culture, heritage, knowledge and intuition that this healthcare regime embodies. Therefore development of an Ayurvedic free Indian spa culture as a support for a long established Ayurvedic industry is also a possibility. Other smaller countries, such as Brunei, Myanmar will reasonably see high growth in the coming year, but with small populations, will probably be not be considered serious players in the global spa industry. The strong interest out of Africa (especially Kenya) is likely to continue, with the Caribbean being a bit of a dark horse in the race for industry dominance. Their “world’s largest spa” tourism campaign is sure to turn a few heads. [WT] What are the current trends in the industry? Trends are often talked about, but when you look back they are usually the same subject, just remarket to be ‘new’. The consumers are becoming more educated, and spa operators have to become more educated also. Some consumers are starting to ask questions about the scientific basis of treatments – is there are real health benefit or is it all about the ‘placebo’ effect? The world of natural and organic, still a consumers nightmare of poor labeling, deceitful marketers and blatantly wrong information will change, as consumers start to question what is the product that is being applied to their skin “to absorb”, with the desire to indigenous or ‘everything local’ also remains strong. Over all of this, the biggest trend (not only in the spa industry) is the development of consciousness of environmental issues. [WT] There have been a areas that have been successful in promoting wellness tourism. Thailand and Bali come to mind. Are there other markets that have been successful promoting inbound spa wellness tourism? For medical tourism, Malaysia, Singapore, India, Philippines, Thailand and Indonesia are big players in the region, but it is only Thailand and Bali that have expanded this into the wellness tourism sector – primarily due to their strong traditional health care practices, warm sunny climate and high level of hospitality, that give them a marketing edge. [WT] Who can join APSWC? Currently only spa & wellness industry associations are able to join (free of charge), but we are seeking to establish a paid membership platform shortly and open it up to companies and individuals that wish to join. Interested persons can register for FUSE our free quarterly enews athttp://www.apswc.org/malinglist.htm with other marketing and membership features being expanded once we have relaunched our website. [WT] What is the point of contact for those who are interested in further information about APSWC? For more information about the APSWC, you can submit your enquiry via the APSWC website (www.apswc.org), or you can send an email direct to info@apswc.org or secretary@apswc.org or chairman@apswc.org and if we cannot answer the query, we will forward to one of our colleagues who can. * Wellness Today would like to thank Andrew Jacka for his valuable input into this story.

  • In English
  • Feature

  2012-05-26

• [Interview] Mr. Andrew Jacka, Executive Director of APSWC

  We're fortunate to have the opportunity to chat with a leading Asia-based Spa & Wellness advocate, Andrew Jacka. As Executive Director of the Asia Pacific Spa & Wellness Coalition, President of the Thai Spa Association and the Director of Spa Origins, he is a valuable industry resource who has able to spend a bit of time with Wellness Today. [WT] Asia Pacific Spa & Wellness Coalition (APSWC) is a non-profit organization that supports spa & wellness associations in Asia-Pacific. How does APSWC benefit the regional industry as a whole? The Asia-Pacific Spa & Wellness Coalition (APSWC) was formed in March ’06 – the result of an informal roundtable where 76 industry professionals from across the region gathered in Singapore to map out a development strategy to improve and promote the spa industry for the benefit of all. The roundtable was initiated by the heads of spa associations with a view to bringing the region together; to identify common problems and opportunities, and find ways to improve the business for all. APSWC was officially registered as an association in Singapore in July 2007, with the mission: to act as a bridging mechanism between countries to promote, protect, educate, and develop the spa & wellness industry in the Asia-Pacific region. Since its launch, the Asia-Pacific Spa & Wellness Coalition (APSWC) has grown in size and reputation and now unites 16 associations across 14 countries, with a network extending around the globe. It is a regional body which links the national spa associations of the Asia-Pacific nations. The Coalition (formerly Council) was formed to meet the challenges presented by the evolution and growth of the Asian Pacific spa industry. In addition to gathering and communicating market information and resources, APSWC's planned activities for the region include: identifying and recommending appropriate standards, training resources, and performance benchmarks and establishing a code and best practices format to be adopted throughout the region. Working across a multitude of time zones, with language and cultural issues, and spa industries in varying stages of growth and development, has been a distinct challenge. The regional spa industry events that enabled board members to meet regularly in the early years have all but dissipated, making it even more difficult to maintain the momentum of the coalition. The initial five task forces of People, Products, Planet, Profit and Professionalization has grown to include Traditional Therapies, but the global challenges of recent years has taken its toll, and these are not currently as active as anticipated, however with a planned revamp of our website to make it more interactive my mid 2012, together with the employment of a Secretariat, the coalition will be introducing a paid membership scheme, and will be reviewing its structural and strategic focus as we move forward in an ever changing world. In 2011, together with our strategic research partner, Intelligent Spas, the APSWC initiated the first ever regional research across all 42 Asia Pacific Countries. The full media release of this report can be viewed at:http://www.intelligentspas.com/MediaReleases/News_Release_Regional_Spa_Industry_Report_Asia_Pacific_Apr_2011.asp. The report will be expanded in 2013 with more details, and will include research on the Indian spa market also. The primary focus of the APSWC in keeping with our mission is our Strategic Planning Forum. This ‘by invitation only’ event has been held annually (except in 2012), with delegates from over 20 countries attending to collectively establish a strategic plan for our regional industry. 1st APSWC Spa Forum - Bali, 2007 2nd APSWC Spa Forum – Kuala Lumpur, 2008 3rd APSWC Spa Forum - Bangkok, 2009 4th APSWC Spa Forum – Bangkok, 2010 5th APSWC Spa Forum – Phuket, 2011 6th APSWC Spa Forum – planned for Bangkok, March, 2013 The APSWC has also conducted Spa Study Tours, organizing and escorting 20 spa industry professionals to Nepal in 2009 and more than 30 to Bhutan in 2011. The frequency of these study tours is expected to increase from 2012 as we seek to outsource the planning of these to a strategic partner. The APSWC has been nominated by the AsiaSpa Awards Committee for Spa Association of Year for the past six years, taking out the award in 2006, 2009 and 2010. [WT] The spa & wellness industry has experienced significant growth in recent years. Can the industry sustain similar growth in the coming years? We have already seen a slowing on growth in the mature spa markets, such as Philippines, Thailand & Singapore, but this is only to be expected. Industry growth rates of over 20% annually while to be expected for any new industry that is expanding rapidly, are not stainable in the long term, as saturation or near saturation points are reached. Having said this, there are countries in Asia Pacific (Myanmar, Brunei, Palau etc.), and other parts of the world (i.e. Africa), where spa is still a relatively new phenomenon, and therefore there is plenty of opportunity for growth, or even the development of a unique spa culture in these countries, instead of the ‘International spa culture’, which most countries have adopted. For those that seek to explore the historical basis of their health and wellness traditions, and who are able to ethically incorporate or adopt these into the local spa industry, will be able to continue to enjoy significant growth rates for years to come. Having said this, obviously growth in developing countries for a (healthcare) industry that is still seen as ‘luxury indulgence’ is going to be slow unless it can market itself as a little more ‘mainstream’. Ultimately there is always the opportunity for any entrepreneur who is providing something different to the market place, and with continued promotion of education, standards and innovation within the existing industry, there continues the opportunity for growth, but not at the rate of years past. [WT] Are there certain high-growth markets to watch? In the Asia Pacific region, China and India are definite growth markets, especially China, where there is a strong traditional massage and health care industry, you can reasonably expect a unique Chinese spa concept to emerge in the coming years. Presently new spas in China being operated in hotels are following the international spa model, so will be interesting to see if there really is the development of a Chinese spa concept, of if the industry takes the easy road. Similar opportunities exist in India, where Ayurveda has been exploited by the global spa industry. Reality is coming into play and the understanding that Ayurveda is much more than stream of oil on your forehead or oiling massage – there is a deeper understanding that needs to be reached to appreciate the culture, heritage, knowledge and intuition that this healthcare regime embodies. Therefore development of an Ayurvedic free Indian spa culture as a support for a long established Ayurvedic industry is also a possibility. Other smaller countries, such as Brunei, Myanmar will reasonably see high growth in the coming year, but with small populations, will probably be not be considered serious players in the global spa industry. The strong interest out of Africa (especially Kenya) is likely to continue, with the Caribbean being a bit of a dark horse in the race for industry dominance. Their “world’s largest spa” tourism campaign is sure to turn a few heads. [WT] What are the current trends in the industry? Trends are often talked about, but when you look back they are usually the same subject, just remarket to be ‘new’. The consumers are becoming more educated, and spa operators have to become more educated also. Some consumers are starting to ask questions about the scientific basis of treatments – is there are real health benefit or is it all about the ‘placebo’ effect? The world of natural and organic, still a consumers nightmare of poor labeling, deceitful marketers and blatantly wrong information will change, as consumers start to question what is the product that is being applied to their skin “to absorb”, with the desire to indigenous or ‘everything local’ also remains strong. Over all of this, the biggest trend (not only in the spa industry) is the development of consciousness of environmental issues. [WT] There have been a areas that have been successful in promoting wellness tourism. Thailand and Bali come to mind. Are there other markets that have been successful promoting inbound spa wellness tourism? For medical tourism, Malaysia, Singapore, India, Philippines, Thailand and Indonesia are big players in the region, but it is only Thailand and Bali that have expanded this into the wellness tourism sector – primarily due to their strong traditional health care practices, warm sunny climate and high level of hospitality, that give them a marketing edge. [WT] Who can join APSWC? Currently only spa & wellness industry associations are able to join (free of charge), but we are seeking to establish a paid membership platform shortly and open it up to companies and individuals that wish to join. Interested persons can register for FUSE our free quarterly enews athttp://www.apswc.org/malinglist.htm with other marketing and membership features being expanded once we have relaunched our website. [WT] What is the point of contact for those who are interested in further information about APSWC? For more information about the APSWC, you can submit your enquiry via the APSWC website (www.apswc.org), or you can send an email direct to info@apswc.org or secretary@apswc.org or chairman@apswc.org and if we cannot answer the query, we will forward to one of our colleagues who can. * Wellness Today would like to thank Andrew Jacka for his valuable input into this story.

  • In English
  • Feature

  2012-05-26

• A Huge Wave of Deep Rest and Relaxation Floods My Sleep and Dreams

  By WT Global Writer Josée-Ann Cloutier Photos courtesy of Toskana Therme Bad Orb, Germany There is nothing like this anywhere, are the first words that arise in my mind, soaking in the warm geo-thermal saline mineral waters in Toskana Therme, Bad Orb’s specialized pools. Swimming my way outdoors into the fresh air, I am struck by the view, which needs to be seen and felt in person and not only read about here in this article. Imagine, a curvy hillside, tall trees housing various birds flocking about in unison, and a historical salt factory from the early 1800s as a backdrop. White mist rises from the warmth and cool air meeting, as if a magic show is about to begin, but here the show is already happening in its full splendor. Standing under the water fountain, is like being hugged by a powerful waterfall. Pulled into a fast current, I am spiralled in to gliding along effortlessly like a river. The curvy roof looks like a big wave about to splash over, but luckily it is a fine German architectural design giving the illusion of a huge wave about to wash over our heads. The “Liquid Sound” Temple is naturally unique in its own essence and innovation, creating a space for peace and inner intimacy. The brightly lit mandala beams a maze of symmetry and color. The classical melody playing wakes up my senses, with feelings of being alive and feeling my body in a new way. The colours soothe my tired and dry eyes from too much computer screen. The music relaxes my heart with the soft melodies. The warm natural mineral water holds me effortlessly, as I float, letting go of any logical thinking about where, how, and what next. An embryonic memory is activated, like being back in the womb. One guest commented on feeling quite vulnerable and had lost touch with this feeling from being so busy. The time and space open, and “to feel” is a gift Toskana Therme Bad Orb and Liquid Sound offers. Liquid Bodywork under a Full Moon Imagine moving in ways that would be impossible in our gravity forced earth body, but in water, the possibilities of motion open up in many ways. The exploration of movement as though the body has transformed into an eel or dolphin is guided and facilitated by a trained therapist carrying and caring for your deeper exploration and journey back to the source. Aqua Wellness/Liquid Bodywork® was developed by Musia Heike Bus and teached at the Institute for Aqua Wellness in Bad Sulza for many years. I experienced my Aqua Wellness session with Manuela Sonntag - the physiotherapist is also the founder of Wave Balance and a trained Aqua Wellness Bodyworker. In combination with the full moon and musical performance by Ludger Novak, with his entrancing live piano and other worldly music, including Tibetan chants vibrating and resonating through my mind and body under water, the interdisciplinary approach of human touch as I was cradled, twisted, flipped, and the torso rippling like seaweed to the music and light, was one of the most memorable experiences of my three months in Germany. Dive Deep into Luxurious Rest and Dreams The facilities are modern, with a nouveau decor that is accommodating and spacious-- a nice mix between earthy and classic elegance, like bathing in luxury—and comfort. A mix of soft and bright colours coordinated in a way that is reminiscent of an art gallery in New York- but far more relaxing than the big city. The international and local food deserves praise, especially the salad, with layered vegetables, fresh wholesome bread and goat cheese, so nutritious and delectable- unforgettable. To top it off, the staff radiate a natural spirit of service and accommodation with a genuinely friendly and cheerful demeanour. Sitting on the sofa in my room, enjoying mineral water in a wine glass and fresh fruit, looking out the window, a soft mist lifts over the hillside embracing the evening. A nice way to end the day with a big cozy bed inviting me in for some deep restful sleep where I press play to watch the latest flick projected from my unconscious mind. Viewing the vivid imagery, also known as Dreamings that bring forth messages and stories which is more difficult to do in other places that are so busy and speedy. All this is a natural outcome from being in an uplifting and relaxing environment. The deep sleep and rest was too good, and peaceful, so much so, I did not want to get out of bed the next morning! Here, in Toskana Therme Bad Orb, I can let go, and rest longer than I would normally allow myself, and watch as another wave of dreams floods in.

  • In English
  • Feature

  2012-05-26

• A Huge Wave of Deep Rest and Relaxation Floods My Sleep and Dreams

  By WT Global Writer Josée-Ann Cloutier Photos courtesy of Toskana Therme Bad Orb, Germany There is nothing like this anywhere, are the first words that arise in my mind, soaking in the warm geo-thermal saline mineral waters in Toskana Therme, Bad Orb’s specialized pools. Swimming my way outdoors into the fresh air, I am struck by the view, which needs to be seen and felt in person and not only read about here in this article. Imagine, a curvy hillside, tall trees housing various birds flocking about in unison, and a historical salt factory from the early 1800s as a backdrop. White mist rises from the warmth and cool air meeting, as if a magic show is about to begin, but here the show is already happening in its full splendor. Standing under the water fountain, is like being hugged by a powerful waterfall. Pulled into a fast current, I am spiralled in to gliding along effortlessly like a river. The curvy roof looks like a big wave about to splash over, but luckily it is a fine German architectural design giving the illusion of a huge wave about to wash over our heads. The “Liquid Sound” Temple is naturally unique in its own essence and innovation, creating a space for peace and inner intimacy. The brightly lit mandala beams a maze of symmetry and color. The classical melody playing wakes up my senses, with feelings of being alive and feeling my body in a new way. The colours soothe my tired and dry eyes from too much computer screen. The music relaxes my heart with the soft melodies. The warm natural mineral water holds me effortlessly, as I float, letting go of any logical thinking about where, how, and what next. An embryonic memory is activated, like being back in the womb. One guest commented on feeling quite vulnerable and had lost touch with this feeling from being so busy. The time and space open, and “to feel” is a gift Toskana Therme Bad Orb and Liquid Sound offers. Liquid Bodywork under a Full Moon Imagine moving in ways that would be impossible in our gravity forced earth body, but in water, the possibilities of motion open up in many ways. The exploration of movement as though the body has transformed into an eel or dolphin is guided and facilitated by a trained therapist carrying and caring for your deeper exploration and journey back to the source. Aqua Wellness/Liquid Bodywork® was developed by Musia Heike Bus and teached at the Institute for Aqua Wellness in Bad Sulza for many years. I experienced my Aqua Wellness session with Manuela Sonntag - the physiotherapist is also the founder of Wave Balance and a trained Aqua Wellness Bodyworker. In combination with the full moon and musical performance by Ludger Novak, with his entrancing live piano and other worldly music, including Tibetan chants vibrating and resonating through my mind and body under water, the interdisciplinary approach of human touch as I was cradled, twisted, flipped, and the torso rippling like seaweed to the music and light, was one of the most memorable experiences of my three months in Germany. Dive Deep into Luxurious Rest and Dreams The facilities are modern, with a nouveau decor that is accommodating and spacious-- a nice mix between earthy and classic elegance, like bathing in luxury—and comfort. A mix of soft and bright colours coordinated in a way that is reminiscent of an art gallery in New York- but far more relaxing than the big city. The international and local food deserves praise, especially the salad, with layered vegetables, fresh wholesome bread and goat cheese, so nutritious and delectable- unforgettable. To top it off, the staff radiate a natural spirit of service and accommodation with a genuinely friendly and cheerful demeanour. Sitting on the sofa in my room, enjoying mineral water in a wine glass and fresh fruit, looking out the window, a soft mist lifts over the hillside embracing the evening. A nice way to end the day with a big cozy bed inviting me in for some deep restful sleep where I press play to watch the latest flick projected from my unconscious mind. Viewing the vivid imagery, also known as Dreamings that bring forth messages and stories which is more difficult to do in other places that are so busy and speedy. All this is a natural outcome from being in an uplifting and relaxing environment. The deep sleep and rest was too good, and peaceful, so much so, I did not want to get out of bed the next morning! Here, in Toskana Therme Bad Orb, I can let go, and rest longer than I would normally allow myself, and watch as another wave of dreams floods in.

  • In English
  • Feature

  2012-05-26

• [Hot in Germany] Toskanaworld

  A Little Known Secret the Rest of the World Doesn’t Know about in East Germany -- Toskanaworld’s CEO, Marion Schneider and Creator of Liquid Sound, Micky Remann offer life’s jewels for all to enjoy Edited by WT Global Writer Josée-Ann Cloutier Photos by Linda Troeller Thuringia, the East German state has the most natural springs in all of Germany. With a long history of curative towns and medical clinics, Germany is rooted in holistic health and healing methods. The untapped potential for medical spas is an opportunity that Germany can delve into and develop further, says Marion Schneider, CEO of Toskanaworld, the umbrella holding 8 business operations, which include 3 Toskana Thermes (bath and sauna spa resorts) located in Bad Sulza, Bad Schandau and Bad Orb with its unique Liquid Sound. A rehabilitation spa clinic, Klinikzentrum Bad Sulza is for people suffering with chronic joint, skin and respiratory conditions. The Wellness Park, in each location, offers beauty and other day spa treatments with massages for every taste including hot stone, Thai yoga, and ayurveda. Facials, fango mud baths, and more are popular here. Il Ristorante Toskana offer local cuisine from fine dining to standard healthy options such as fish, a salad bar, soups, wholesome breads, and other special treats unique to Germany! For long distance travelers, the guest houses and hotels offer a range of comfortable accommodations from simple to luxurious. The outstanding view of the surrounding lush green landscape is a breathtaking highlight. The local surroundings can be explored by biking, walking or motorized tours. Nordic walking is a popular sport and fitness training offered daily along with yoga and aqua fitness classes. There are various fascinating historical museums to be seen including the saline museum in Bad Sulza where natural salts coming from the groundwater were excavated and produced. For those interested in renown historical figures in art, music, theatre and literature, the Grimm Brothers museum near Bad Orb is worth a visit, also the famous Bauhaus museum and Goethe museum in nearby Weimar are a short train ride away from Bad Sulza. There is an Art to Bathing at the Toskana Thermes The art of bathing takes place in healing warm salt springs, in various sized pools including a smaller one, specially designed for children. The hot whirlpools, cold pools, and event showers with colored lights and fragrances will get your blood circulating, leaving a refreshing feeling. Adjoining to the indoor pool is the outdoor area where one can swim to an open sky of blue or if in the evening, to a vast view of the stars and moon. The spiral and circular design is ornamented with water fountains and jets to smooth over knotted and tight muscles. Sauna World offers modern, high quality “saunas of the future”, the lektarium, a sauna where one can read the daily newspaper or a favorite novel is nice and relaxing. A sauna bar around the corner will satisfy any thirst or hunger craving with fresh smoothies and traditional German pretzels. Every hour an Aufguss also known as the Sauna Master pours water on the sauna rocks with an aromatic essence such as birch. Once the steam rises, the Aufguss swirls a towel around the sauna from side to side, up and down guiding the waves of hot air to seep into the pores of the crowded sauna dwellers more directly. Warning – it gets hot in the 90 degree Celsius sauna! It is better to start with a soft sauna and build your way up to the hot experience. Liquid Sound Internationally acclaimed Liquid Sound® is a contemporary bathing experience for relaxation, wellness and inspiration using an innovative multimedia system which allows people to immerse in a symphony of light, sound and video above and below the surface of natural salt spring water. It is also an official trademark belonging to its inventor Micky Remann. The Full Moon Live Concerts occur monthly with a live performance by a local musician(s). Bathers float or dance in the salt brine absorbing the light rays of the moon and musical vibrations until 1am. These special events have drawn more than 100,000 visitors since 1999. The Liquid Sound Club is a monthly gathering for the young at heart to enjoy live electronic music performed by local DJ’s. However, anyone living anywhere in the world can connect to the event online via live stream visit www.liquidsoundclub.net. The evening is a mix between an upbeat and chilled out atmosphere that can be social or not, moving, dancing, floating to music surrounded by water and lights. Experiencing both events felt extraordinary to be rippling with the water in a spacious dome radiating soft interchanging lights of purple, green, blue--unlike anything I’ve ever done in reality. Perhaps, the only time has been in dreams, experiencing this in my mind’s eye. Liquid Sound for me is an ultimate antidote to stress, where I can let all mental and body tension go in the water. The musician Ludwig Novak from Berlin played a fine mix of live piano that touched a feeling in my heart – awakening it. A mix of electronic beats, meditative Tibetan chanting and other worldly rhythms offered a balanced, restful, and uplifting evening. The Liquid Sound Club gathered about 300 young bathers, and music enthusiasts at the Bad Orb location. I met the young DJ’s at the Bad Sulza location, as they displayed their skill and hipness for all to enjoy-- an evening of full sensory sound and body waves. Marion Schneider, CEO, Toskanaworld ▲ CEO Marion Schneider I have the great privilege to spend some time with Marion Schneider during a six week internship at Toskanaworld, where I’m learning as much as I can about Toskanaworld, as an out of the ordinary world example in what is possible to create and operate in the wellbeing industry that is more readily accessible to the masses. Mrs. Schneider is sincerely kind and generous, radiating great care and concern. I feel important and well cared for in her presence. It’s not enough to write an article about this very engaged and active being—she certainly deserves a book as she has accomplished a great deal by benefitting many. Other titles she holds are President, Co-founder, Writer, Historian, Chairwoman, Advisory board member, Artist, mother, wife, and daughter. With 32 ongoing projects, she places her family and friends as a priority by ensuring that quality time is spent with them as it makes everyone, including herself happy. Here is a snap shot of her accomplishments President of the international children's aid organisation Ourchild (www.ourchild.de) which is supporting projects for children in five different countries. Supporter of the Jewish Heritage project that cares for historical sites such as synagogues and prisoner of war camps where families commemorate their lost loved ones. She also educates young people by visiting schools. Co-founder of the state-approved School for Physical and Massage Therapists in Bad Sulza (www.schulewfp.de) Chair of the British International Spa Association (www.spaassociation.org.uk) from 2007 to 2011 Advisory board-member of the Corporate Health Improvement Program (CHIP), University of Arizona (http://www.integrativemedicine.arizona.edu/chip/), of The American Spa Therapy and Education Certification Council (ASTECC), Florida (www.astecc.com), as well as of the Vision Spa Retreat, Missouri (http://www.visionsparetreat.com/advisors-vsr.html and the Hot Wells Institute, Texas. Together with the New York photographer Linda Troeller Marion published the book "The Erotic Lives of Women" in 1999 (Scalo, Basel/New York) – see www.erotic-lives-of-women.com – which is accompanied by an exhibition first shown in Salzburg, later in Amsterdam, Berlin and Weimar and a CD with the same name. Marion Schneider's biography is in the Marquis "Who is Who in the World" and the index of "2000 Outstanding Intellectuals of the 21st Century" at the International Biographical Centre in Cambridge. In recognition of her contribution and services to medium- sized business, Marion was appointed to the Hessian-Thuringian State Council for Economic Affairs www.bvmw.de http://www.marionschneider.net How does she accomplish all of this and maintain a sane, healthy lifestyle? Coming from a farming family, a strong work ethic was instilled at a very young age. She witnessed and experienced what it means to survive during a harsh and impoverished time period. Her secret she says is to always say yes by being open to whatever arises and to see where it can potentially lead to. This attitude is reflected in the atmosphere that Toskanaworld reflects in the physical spaciousness, accommodating staff and generous visual aesthetics. Her father, a pioneer in Germany’s sauna and solar equipment business, was one of the first to distribute saunas and solar machines to retailers. Being raised in the health industry and failed attempt in taking over the family business, the foundation for Toskanaworld to arise was set when she and husband, Klaus Dieter Boehm bought Klinikzentrum Bad Sulza and developed the rehabilitation clinic. It was not smooth sailing in building and developing Toskanaworld to where it is today. Many challenges arose, and storms weathered out including deals falling through, policy changes, industry and market changes, and two liquidity gaps. She says that she never considered giving up—her response, how could she? When asked what drives her in an interview with Spa Business in 2010, she responded “to see people in pain is one of the worst things I can imagine. To help change that is one of the most satisfying experiences I know.“ From where does she attest and draw her inspiration from? Seemingly pleased by this enquiry, there was a pause, and it was as if a flood gate had opened. As a historian she draws her inspiration from history. As a linguist she draws her inspiration from language. As an artist, she draws her inspiration from art and music. She used to play piano and sing, which she does not do so much anymore. Tchaikovsky, the Requiem of Mozart, Carmina Burana, and Mussorgsky are some of her favorites. In literature, mythology, fairytales, classic Greece, writings by Tolstoy, Isabelle Allen de Chile’s the House of Ghosts, and Dostoevsky, the Demons have inspired her work. The wisdom in fairytales she says offer pure, clear wisdom by pointing out what is right and wrong. She finds inspiration in beauty, where finding it and recognizing it is energizing, she says. As a human being, she draws inspiration from nature and the forest, other human beings and animals. When she’s not working, she enjoys writing the most and walking but not alone so much but in company. Toskanaworld Business Talk with CEO, Marion Schneider 1. What does Toskanaworld have to offer? Toskanaworld offers health and happiness—with good service. It’s a place to heal and relax. 2. What do you think is the biggest challenge in the wellness and spa industry today? The biggest challenge is in finding qualified staff that are dedicated, and then retaining them. Another big challenge is ensuring everything is efficient and sustainable. Mrs. Schneider’s main focus for Toskanworld this year is to build a stronger more economically sustainable system. 3. Where is your favorite spa? Toskana Therme Bad Sulza, because it brings together the old and young, rich and poor, east and west and the national and international. 4. What is most inspiring about your work as CEO of Toskanaworld? Healing and making people feel better. 5. Any present or future developments you wish to share? There are 3 Toskanaworld projects currently being developed in Germany. 6. What makes Toskanaworld a successful business? Having a strong team of leaders who can work together is very important. We offer a variety of income streams to reduce the risk, even though it is expensive—it is better to have more security by diversifying. 7. What is your advice to someone coming into the spa industry? Go for quality, and never stop learning! Marion Schneider’s Words of Wisdom Change takes time, watch it grow. It’s a risk to not take a risk. The most important ability as a business leader is to be able to motivate your staff. You do this by sharing with them who you are and being clear about what you want. “I normally like everyone. Those who harm others like murderers, it is better to try to understand rather than judge them without knowing their story. Understanding teaches love, and one can forgive.” Advice to someone coming into the spa industry: Go for quality and never stop learning! Toskanaworld Quick Facts -- 340 employees in total. -- 8 businesses within Toskanaworld. -- 40% of the guests in Bad Sulza are regulars. -- Survived two liquidity gaps Toskanaworld Success Recipe -- Ingredients -- Diversify to reduce risk – even though it is more expensive, it has been the most economically sustainable. -- A strong team of leaders -- Never give up!

  • In English
  • Feature

  2012-03-20