• [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. Patrick Saussay, Founder & CEO of Global Project & Spa Advisory

  We are fortunate to have an opportunity to chat with Patrick Saussay, Founder & CEO of Paris-based Global Project & Spa Advisory (G.P.S.A). Patrick discusses the roll-out of evian®SPA in the Asian market and provides further insight through his extensive Spa & Wellness industry experience. ▲ Mr. Patrick Saussay, Founder & CEO of Global Project & Spa Advisory [WT] You're the founder and CEO of Global Project and Spa Advisory. What is the mission of the firm? [PS] The mission of G.P.S.A. is to provide support in concept definition, project management, brand development, spa expertise in the wellness industry. Today, upscale hotels, resorts and residences can’t move forward and be recognized as "best places to stay" without quality spa and wellness services. Customers are demanding and more and more aware of spa treatments, products, services. To provide wellness and not just treatments, all customer senses should be considered to create a relaxing environment able to meet expectations. Spas in hotels and resorts require true expertises to set up quality and competitive wellness offer, and to develop profit centers. For these reasons, and thanks to more than 20 years in consulting and project management, we have developed our vision and team to propose our services in: ▶ Business strategy ▶Spa consulting ▶Market study ▶ Project management ▶ Business planning ▶ Spa management ▶ Brand development We answer to multi-sensorial needs with a consistent approach of all spa dimensions, connecting each element for a global balanced experience. We gather the best experts to design extraordinary spas able to enhance an hotel awareness and value. We have a special care for team training (treatments, behavior, customer care, retail and sales) just because to create a wellness experience the team is a key asset. Last but not least, we also have a strong focus on business plan and forecasts because a wellness facilities are not only about pleasure but also about profit. [WT] One of GPSA's projects is to lead the international development for evian®SPA. What does this entail? [PS] evian®, number one mineral water worldwide, has decided to launch its unique spa concept last year. It is a strategic and natural evolution for evian®, consistent with its core values : purity, health, youth. It's a new refreshing full spa concept based on evian water life cycle. The water journey in French Alps mountains is our reference and provides an original but self-explanatory answer to the growing hotels concern for a story to tell. We have provided our spa expertise to evian® in the concept definition, and we now take care of the international development on behalf of evian. This means prospection and identification of the right hotel partners and implementation support depending on the hotel requirements. It is important to preserve evian® identity during local implementation; it is also essential to deal with the location soul and culture to adjust the concept to local needs and customers. We secure evian®'s "must haves" including treatments menu and trainings. Actually, when I've met Laurent Houel (evian® project owner) , they were already finalizing implementation of evianSPA in Palace Hotel Tokyo. So my role was more geared towards the future projects, in terms of concept enhancement and the organisation of the commercial development. The objective is to provide not only a concept but also the tailor-made support to implement it during all future projects ▲ evian®SPA Tokyo's Reception [WT] What is the evian®SPA inspiration ? Are there unique attributes to evian®SPA's offerings that differentiate the brand from others? The inspiration that led to evian®SPA creation is intimately associated with the course that evian®water follows through the heart of the Alps before emerging at the spring, in its purest form, after a journey of over fifteen years. Its birth a celestial event involving rain and snow on the Gavot plateau, evian® water penetrates deep through the rocks during a journey that endows it with its perfect mineral balance while purifying it. The water builds up into a precious reserve, before emerging in a vital flow at the spring. This is the story of the miraculous journey that is reflected in an evian® spa, offering the guest a unique experience, a journey into the heart of the mountain, to attain a glorious balance both in terms of body and mind, after having enjoyed a relaxing environment wherein water is present at all times, in all its forms. The architecture inspired by the mountain's curves, the design and decor of the facilities, as if shaped by water, are also intended to reinforce the sense of letting go, of restful breathing, and alpine tranquility. In this space that exists in communion with nature, guests are invited to revel in a real sensory experience: A spa lighting that follows the rhythm of the sun cycle, sound interaction, special aroma signatures, are all part of this journey for the senses. evian® is not a cosmetic brand; it's a wellness brand with its own universe, image, and a strong international awareness. With this new evian®SPA concept, evian® is confirming its desire for natural diversification by proposing in a new and vibrant manner a return to the source of all well being through water. ▲ evian®SPA Tokyo's Spa Suite [WT] Palace Hotel Tokyo is the first location for an evian®SPA project. Has the project opened, and how has the brand been received by the local market? [PS] Japan was the backdrop for the opening, in May 2012, of the first luxurious evian®SPA, located on the 5th floor of the Palace Hotel Tokyo, which is marvelously situated across from the gardens of the Imperial Palace. Spread over 1200 sq ms of bright, spacious facilities, the SPA offers: 6 treatment rooms including one double room, two steam rooms, a 127 sq m fitness room, a 20 m x 5 m swimming pool with terrace -French savoir faire and Japanese tradition coming together in perfect embodiment of a concept inspired by the mountains. Authenticity, link with the nature, french origin, quality positioning, these are key assets for a successful start in a very demanding country. The fact that there are more local customers that hotel guests in the spa is an excellent sign.. ▲ Swing Pool I at evian®SPA Tokyo ▲ Swing Pool II at evian®SPA Tokyo [WT] What upcoming plans are there for evian®SPA in the greater Asian market? [PS] evian®SPA concept is the result of an innovative global approach which will be developed through licensing agreements. The development is planned in overseas markets on a priority basis, in countries where the brand enjoys an excellent reputation and an image that will ensure primary interest from clients who are looking for something that is different and authentic. I can't disclose specific information about next steps, but Asia, Middle East, Russia, some countries in Europe and USA are our main targets. [WT] Prior to GPSA, you spent fifteen years in the consulting industry. How did that prepare you for your current endeavors? [PS] My consulting background helps me a lot everyday. As a senior manager for Arthur Andersen/BearingPoint, I was involved in the transition process of several private and public large organizations such as the French Healthcare Ministry, Paris Head office, CNES, Bloomberg, Saint Gobain, and several major French hospitals. I was fully dedicated to health-care organizations for three years, balancing quality and efficiency in this very sensitive sector. Consulting in this kind of organizations teach strategy and methodology, project management, sensitive issues analysis, finance and change management. Wellness market is quite young and I thought it could be useful to bring this kind of competencies to support wellness projects and hotel spa reorganization. Obviously, sectorial skills are also important. That's the reason why, in addition of a three year experience as managing director of a Swiss spa brand, I'm glad to have on board the support of Christine Masson with more than 20 years of technical experience in this industry. Coming from the consulting industry, we propose a pragmatic integrated vision and secure project management more than with only sectorial skills. [WT] Are there trends in the Spa & Wellness industry that are of particular interest to you? [PS] I'm very interested in the growing care for wellness services more that spa or treatment services. I believe in cross selling and I feel that customer benefits are deeper if we provide a global consistent offer beyond treatments and cosmetics. There are many ways to provide wellness. Wellness Today appreciates Patrick’s contribution and sharing his market insight.

  • In English
  • Feature

  2013-02-13

• [Interview] Mr. Patrick Saussay, Founder & CEO of Global Project & Spa Advisory

  We are fortunate to have an opportunity to chat with Patrick Saussay, Founder & CEO of Paris-based Global Project & Spa Advisory (G.P.S.A). Patrick discusses the roll-out of evian®SPA in the Asian market and provides further insight through his extensive Spa & Wellness industry experience. ▲ Mr. Patrick Saussay, Founder & CEO of Global Project & Spa Advisory [WT] You're the founder and CEO of Global Project and Spa Advisory. What is the mission of the firm? [PS] The mission of G.P.S.A. is to provide support in concept definition, project management, brand development, spa expertise in the wellness industry. Today, upscale hotels, resorts and residences can’t move forward and be recognized as "best places to stay" without quality spa and wellness services. Customers are demanding and more and more aware of spa treatments, products, services. To provide wellness and not just treatments, all customer senses should be considered to create a relaxing environment able to meet expectations. Spas in hotels and resorts require true expertises to set up quality and competitive wellness offer, and to develop profit centers. For these reasons, and thanks to more than 20 years in consulting and project management, we have developed our vision and team to propose our services in: ▶ Business strategy ▶Spa consulting ▶Market study ▶ Project management ▶ Business planning ▶ Spa management ▶ Brand development We answer to multi-sensorial needs with a consistent approach of all spa dimensions, connecting each element for a global balanced experience. We gather the best experts to design extraordinary spas able to enhance an hotel awareness and value. We have a special care for team training (treatments, behavior, customer care, retail and sales) just because to create a wellness experience the team is a key asset. Last but not least, we also have a strong focus on business plan and forecasts because a wellness facilities are not only about pleasure but also about profit. [WT] One of GPSA's projects is to lead the international development for evian®SPA. What does this entail? [PS] evian®, number one mineral water worldwide, has decided to launch its unique spa concept last year. It is a strategic and natural evolution for evian®, consistent with its core values : purity, health, youth. It's a new refreshing full spa concept based on evian water life cycle. The water journey in French Alps mountains is our reference and provides an original but self-explanatory answer to the growing hotels concern for a story to tell. We have provided our spa expertise to evian® in the concept definition, and we now take care of the international development on behalf of evian. This means prospection and identification of the right hotel partners and implementation support depending on the hotel requirements. It is important to preserve evian® identity during local implementation; it is also essential to deal with the location soul and culture to adjust the concept to local needs and customers. We secure evian®'s "must haves" including treatments menu and trainings. Actually, when I've met Laurent Houel (evian® project owner) , they were already finalizing implementation of evianSPA in Palace Hotel Tokyo. So my role was more geared towards the future projects, in terms of concept enhancement and the organisation of the commercial development. The objective is to provide not only a concept but also the tailor-made support to implement it during all future projects ▲ evian®SPA Tokyo's Reception [WT] What is the evian®SPA inspiration ? Are there unique attributes to evian®SPA's offerings that differentiate the brand from others? The inspiration that led to evian®SPA creation is intimately associated with the course that evian®water follows through the heart of the Alps before emerging at the spring, in its purest form, after a journey of over fifteen years. Its birth a celestial event involving rain and snow on the Gavot plateau, evian® water penetrates deep through the rocks during a journey that endows it with its perfect mineral balance while purifying it. The water builds up into a precious reserve, before emerging in a vital flow at the spring. This is the story of the miraculous journey that is reflected in an evian® spa, offering the guest a unique experience, a journey into the heart of the mountain, to attain a glorious balance both in terms of body and mind, after having enjoyed a relaxing environment wherein water is present at all times, in all its forms. The architecture inspired by the mountain's curves, the design and decor of the facilities, as if shaped by water, are also intended to reinforce the sense of letting go, of restful breathing, and alpine tranquility. In this space that exists in communion with nature, guests are invited to revel in a real sensory experience: A spa lighting that follows the rhythm of the sun cycle, sound interaction, special aroma signatures, are all part of this journey for the senses. evian® is not a cosmetic brand; it's a wellness brand with its own universe, image, and a strong international awareness. With this new evian®SPA concept, evian® is confirming its desire for natural diversification by proposing in a new and vibrant manner a return to the source of all well being through water. ▲ evian®SPA Tokyo's Spa Suite [WT] Palace Hotel Tokyo is the first location for an evian®SPA project. Has the project opened, and how has the brand been received by the local market? [PS] Japan was the backdrop for the opening, in May 2012, of the first luxurious evian®SPA, located on the 5th floor of the Palace Hotel Tokyo, which is marvelously situated across from the gardens of the Imperial Palace. Spread over 1200 sq ms of bright, spacious facilities, the SPA offers: 6 treatment rooms including one double room, two steam rooms, a 127 sq m fitness room, a 20 m x 5 m swimming pool with terrace -French savoir faire and Japanese tradition coming together in perfect embodiment of a concept inspired by the mountains. Authenticity, link with the nature, french origin, quality positioning, these are key assets for a successful start in a very demanding country. The fact that there are more local customers that hotel guests in the spa is an excellent sign.. ▲ Swing Pool I at evian®SPA Tokyo ▲ Swing Pool II at evian®SPA Tokyo [WT] What upcoming plans are there for evian®SPA in the greater Asian market? [PS] evian®SPA concept is the result of an innovative global approach which will be developed through licensing agreements. The development is planned in overseas markets on a priority basis, in countries where the brand enjoys an excellent reputation and an image that will ensure primary interest from clients who are looking for something that is different and authentic. I can't disclose specific information about next steps, but Asia, Middle East, Russia, some countries in Europe and USA are our main targets. [WT] Prior to GPSA, you spent fifteen years in the consulting industry. How did that prepare you for your current endeavors? [PS] My consulting background helps me a lot everyday. As a senior manager for Arthur Andersen/BearingPoint, I was involved in the transition process of several private and public large organizations such as the French Healthcare Ministry, Paris Head office, CNES, Bloomberg, Saint Gobain, and several major French hospitals. I was fully dedicated to health-care organizations for three years, balancing quality and efficiency in this very sensitive sector. Consulting in this kind of organizations teach strategy and methodology, project management, sensitive issues analysis, finance and change management. Wellness market is quite young and I thought it could be useful to bring this kind of competencies to support wellness projects and hotel spa reorganization. Obviously, sectorial skills are also important. That's the reason why, in addition of a three year experience as managing director of a Swiss spa brand, I'm glad to have on board the support of Christine Masson with more than 20 years of technical experience in this industry. Coming from the consulting industry, we propose a pragmatic integrated vision and secure project management more than with only sectorial skills. [WT] Are there trends in the Spa & Wellness industry that are of particular interest to you? [PS] I'm very interested in the growing care for wellness services more that spa or treatment services. I believe in cross selling and I feel that customer benefits are deeper if we provide a global consistent offer beyond treatments and cosmetics. There are many ways to provide wellness. Wellness Today appreciates Patrick’s contribution and sharing his market insight.

  • In English
  • Feature

  2013-02-13

• A Place for Exotic Escape in the Island of Gods

  The ultra-trendy, super-chic W Retreat & Spa Bali is located in the upscale enclave of Seminyak, where the island’s designer boutiques, diverse galleries, lively restaurants, and fashionable lounges and clubs are found. The first W Hotel in Indonesia, W Bali brings a level of sophistication to the island through its modern design and signature bars and restaurants that allow guests and locals alike to mix and mingle. W Retreat & Spa Bali features Indonesia’s first AWAY® Spa, providing jetsetters and well-connected locals with an exotic escape, a place where the whirlwind of W winds down to allow a detox from a long, hedonistic night or a refuel for whatever comes next. As a resident of Seminyak, I pass by the designer boutiques and shops on a very frequent basis. As a frequent runner on the famed Bali beaches, I find that I pass the W Retreat most frequently on the windswept beaches endlessly stretching in both directions from the resort. Its a regular treat to enjoy the sandy beaches at the W Bali whether it’s during an early morning run as the sun comes up, or in the evening as the soft tunes from the Woo Bar float over the waves as the sun sets for the day. Having stopped in the AWAY® Spa on a dozen or so occasions, I have come to know a few of the staff within this award winning facility. During a recent visit, I had an opportunity to spend some time chatting with the Spa Sales Manager, Ms. Dina Ayu Anggraeni. She indicated that the top two nationalities making use of the AWAY® Spa are Australian and Korean. Dina also mentioned quite a few Korean honeymooners select the W Bali during October - December, and typically visit the AWAY® Spa during their stay. A bit earlier this month, I had the wonderful privilege of experiencing one of the AWAY® Spa’s exotic Signature treatments. In consultation with the spa’s well trained staff, we decided the “Morning After” massage was the best fit for my needs. Best described by the resort’s itself: “AWAY’s® signature ‘Morning After’ massage is designed for guests who wish to detox from a long, playful night out or to refuel for an upcoming nocturnal adventure. The 90-minute full-body massage utilizes herbal oils infused with fresh lime, basil, mint and rosemary leaves to work away muscular aches and pains”. Before the Morning After massage, I was first escorted to the locker facilities where I spent 20-30 minutes in the AWAY® Spa’s Waterworks, a delightful mix of plunge pools, showers and hamams. It’s a place where it’s quite easy to lose track of time, unwinding and relaxing in the quiet confines of their plunge pools and hamams. After the Waterworks, I made my way to the AWAY® Spa “Detox Chamber” a pure oxygen filled blue room where I was allowed to decompress before the Morning After signature treatment. This was only the third or fourth time I’ve tried pure oxygen therapy, and found this to have been the best. The surroundings helped set a more relaxing environment allowing more effective decompression. As my time in the Detox Chamber was winding down, the assigned therapist arrived to escort me to my treatment room. Walking through the stylish, yet funky AWAY® Spa facilities to my treatment room, I knew I was in for a treat. Upon my arrival at the spa roughly one-hour earlier, I was asked a series of questions relating to my health & wellbeing, as well as specific areas I may need more focus. As a frequent barefoot runner on Bali’s beaches, I knew my lower legs would likely need a specific focus. In speaking with the therapist I found that she has been with the AWAY® Spa for the 2+ years they’ve been open. Her quality training and years of experience were noticeable as she went through the Morning After massage … addressing the specific areas of concentration highlighted in my pre-treatment consultation. I would like to thank Spa Manager, Ms. Ni Made Arya Sitiari and Spa Sales Manager, Ms. Dina Ayu Anggraeni for their personalized attention during my December visit. A special thank you to the AWAY® Spa’s well mannered and highly trained reception staff and therapist. I highly recommend the AWAY® Spa at W Retreat Bali for visitors traveling in from Korea and elsewhere around the world. The W Retreat & Spa Bali can be found online at: www.whotels.com/baliseminyak.

  • In English
  • Feature

  2013-01-02

• A Place for Exotic Escape in the Island of Gods

  The ultra-trendy, super-chic W Retreat & Spa Bali is located in the upscale enclave of Seminyak, where the island’s designer boutiques, diverse galleries, lively restaurants, and fashionable lounges and clubs are found. The first W Hotel in Indonesia, W Bali brings a level of sophistication to the island through its modern design and signature bars and restaurants that allow guests and locals alike to mix and mingle. W Retreat & Spa Bali features Indonesia’s first AWAY® Spa, providing jetsetters and well-connected locals with an exotic escape, a place where the whirlwind of W winds down to allow a detox from a long, hedonistic night or a refuel for whatever comes next. As a resident of Seminyak, I pass by the designer boutiques and shops on a very frequent basis. As a frequent runner on the famed Bali beaches, I find that I pass the W Retreat most frequently on the windswept beaches endlessly stretching in both directions from the resort. Its a regular treat to enjoy the sandy beaches at the W Bali whether it’s during an early morning run as the sun comes up, or in the evening as the soft tunes from the Woo Bar float over the waves as the sun sets for the day. Having stopped in the AWAY® Spa on a dozen or so occasions, I have come to know a few of the staff within this award winning facility. During a recent visit, I had an opportunity to spend some time chatting with the Spa Sales Manager, Ms. Dina Ayu Anggraeni. She indicated that the top two nationalities making use of the AWAY® Spa are Australian and Korean. Dina also mentioned quite a few Korean honeymooners select the W Bali during October - December, and typically visit the AWAY® Spa during their stay. A bit earlier this month, I had the wonderful privilege of experiencing one of the AWAY® Spa’s exotic Signature treatments. In consultation with the spa’s well trained staff, we decided the “Morning After” massage was the best fit for my needs. Best described by the resort’s itself: “AWAY’s® signature ‘Morning After’ massage is designed for guests who wish to detox from a long, playful night out or to refuel for an upcoming nocturnal adventure. The 90-minute full-body massage utilizes herbal oils infused with fresh lime, basil, mint and rosemary leaves to work away muscular aches and pains”. Before the Morning After massage, I was first escorted to the locker facilities where I spent 20-30 minutes in the AWAY® Spa’s Waterworks, a delightful mix of plunge pools, showers and hamams. It’s a place where it’s quite easy to lose track of time, unwinding and relaxing in the quiet confines of their plunge pools and hamams. After the Waterworks, I made my way to the AWAY® Spa “Detox Chamber” a pure oxygen filled blue room where I was allowed to decompress before the Morning After signature treatment. This was only the third or fourth time I’ve tried pure oxygen therapy, and found this to have been the best. The surroundings helped set a more relaxing environment allowing more effective decompression. As my time in the Detox Chamber was winding down, the assigned therapist arrived to escort me to my treatment room. Walking through the stylish, yet funky AWAY® Spa facilities to my treatment room, I knew I was in for a treat. Upon my arrival at the spa roughly one-hour earlier, I was asked a series of questions relating to my health & wellbeing, as well as specific areas I may need more focus. As a frequent barefoot runner on Bali’s beaches, I knew my lower legs would likely need a specific focus. In speaking with the therapist I found that she has been with the AWAY® Spa for the 2+ years they’ve been open. Her quality training and years of experience were noticeable as she went through the Morning After massage … addressing the specific areas of concentration highlighted in my pre-treatment consultation. I would like to thank Spa Manager, Ms. Ni Made Arya Sitiari and Spa Sales Manager, Ms. Dina Ayu Anggraeni for their personalized attention during my December visit. A special thank you to the AWAY® Spa’s well mannered and highly trained reception staff and therapist. I highly recommend the AWAY® Spa at W Retreat Bali for visitors traveling in from Korea and elsewhere around the world. The W Retreat & Spa Bali can be found online at: www.whotels.com/baliseminyak.

  • In English
  • Feature

  2013-01-02

• [Interview] Ms. Ivanka Trump, Executive VP of Trump Hotel Collection

  Wellness Today is pleased to have the opportunity to speak with Ivanka Trump about the Spa at Trump®, a signature spa brand developed by the Trump Hotel Collection. Ivanka is the Executive Vice President of Development & Acquisitions for The Trump Organization. ▲ Ms. Ivanka Trump inside the hammam at The Spa at Trump SoHo. [Image via Yossi Michaeli Photography] [WT] Statistics indicate hotels in Asia Pacific closed out 2011 at a healthy 9.8% RevPAR growth over 2010, with Southeast Asia at a staggering 18.8%. Growth looks set to continue through 2012. As you’re scheduled to speak at the Hotel Investment Conference Asia Pacific (HICAP) in Hong Kong this October, what does this indicate of Trump Hotel Collection’s interest in the APAC market? Trump Hotel Collection is keenly interested in the APAC market and is aggressively sourcing options. We have recently appointed Todd Wynne-Parry to the new role of senior vice president of global hotel development and acquisitions. For us, it is all about finding the right opportunity, in the right location and now we are pleased to have Todd focusing his efforts on our expansion. Additionally, we will be opening a representative office in Shanghai in the short-term and appointing an executive to spearhead our growth in Greater China as an initial step. The RevPAR stats illustrate that Asia is leading a successful hospitality market and we hope to be a part of it very soon. [WT] The Spa at Trump® signature brand was founded in 2008. Where can these luxurious spas be found? And will the Spa at Trump® brand be placed in international properties? The Spa at Trump can be found at Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago, Trump International Hotel Las Vegas and Trump International Hotel Waikiki Beach Walk. Trump SoHo New York has the only authentic luxury hammam on the East Coast. All of our spas have unique treatments and incredible designs that have been incredibly successful. We hope to expand The Spa at Trump to prospective international properties in the near future. [WT] The spas are designed to envelop guests in services geared toward wellness and inner health. What principles guide the Trump Spa philosophy? We cater all of our treatments to focus on wellness and health. From the minute you step into the spa until the moment you leave. All of the interactions between spa employees and guests are focused on wellness, health and of course impeccable service. Our Spa Attaché program is on call for guests to cater to every need while enjoying our treatments. [WT] Trump Hotel’s SoHo location was your first design to use a Middle Eastern theme. What influences shaped this design decision? While working on the design of Trump SoHo , I was frequently going back and forth to Istanbul on business and fell in love with the hammam experience, and knew I had to bring it back to the states. [WT] Can visitors to other Trump Spas expect the same Middle Eastern theme? And will this be a theme used as the Spa at Trump® signature brand expands internationally? We recently renovated Trump Spa at Trump International Hotel & Tower New York and incorporated Middle Eastern rituals into many of the treatments. Our treatments are both tailored to the spas specific location as well as the consumer trends. With Middle-Eastern inspired treatments being so popular the last few years, you very well might see The Spa at Trump reinvent treatments that feature this theme. [WT] Wellness is a recent trend in the Spa industry. Where do you see the growth markets for wellness and medi-spas, and how will the Spa at Trump® be positioned? I think wellness is more than a trend; it’s a concept that is here to stay and The Spa at Trump has been offering wellness options since 2008. For the busy lives that so many of us lead it is important to de-stress, decompress, unwind, and take care of your body on a regular basis. Wellness Today would like to thank you for your participation in the interview, and your contributions to the industry.

  • In English
  • Feature

  2012-10-03