SPA TREATMENTS AND PRODUCT EXPERIENCES ~ PART I ~

The Spa at Trump, Trump International Hotel & Tower (Chicago, IL)

This new eponymous tribute to luxury is in the heart of Chicago’s downtown area, and in close proximity to the tony Mag Mile, where money continues to flow, despite the economy. Extraordinary views and scapes of the Windy City await the guest. It’s Trump, so what else would you expect?

Treatment Experience: Royal Lulur Ritual

The Royal Lulur is a 17th Century indigenous treatment ritual given to a royal bride-to-be over a forty consecutive day period prior to her wedding. The bride’s female family members would prepare her body for her betrothed and impart sage wisdom on what to expect as she transitioned into wedded bliss.

Products used: JAMU Asian Spa Rituals (www.jamuspa.com).

Live gardenia blooms (which I love) adorned my enormous treatment room. Half of the room was for the treatment area, while the other half accommodated a huge Kohler (www.kohler.com)overflow tub with jets that synchronously change to Chakra colors. The room also was filled with the delicate aromas of jasmine and frangipani; rounding out the visual and olfactory experience was the visual of an explosion of illusion candles everywhere my eyes focused.

Before the treatment began, my therapist explained the significance of the traditional ritual and then presents a tray of fresh gardenia blossoms and treatment products. After inhaling these heady aromas, my therapist left the room and I made my way towards the warmed treatment table and immediately wanted to fall asleep. My therapist began the treatment by applying Jasmine Frangipani Organic Massage and Body Oil. Using a combination of Asian and European massage techniques, my circulation was revitalized while my taught and achy muscles became pliable.

After the massage phase, an exfoliating Lulur scrub (Jasmine Organic Body, Hand & Foot Scrub), which contained tumeric, rice bran and Indonesian herbs, was mixed into a paste with some of the Jasmine and Frangipani Organic Massage and Body Oil. The scrub was applied to the entire body, which polished and brightened the skin. Resting briefly while the scrub air-dried, warmed yogurt was then applied on top of the scrub and massaged into the skin; hot towels were then used to meticulously remove the scrub and yogurt mixture. I was then wrapped in sheeting and escorted to my soaking tub, where I methodically cleansed myself further with Jasmine Frangipani Organic Bath & Shower Gel. The fragile aroma of numerous gardenia blossoms surrounding my tub’s perimeter, combined with the delicate aromas of jasmine and frangipani was almost distractive to the underwater lights in the enormous soaking tub as they changed colors; I definitely felt like royalty. As I languidly soaked in floral splendor, an arm’s reach bottle of New Zealand’s geothermal water, Waiwera (http://www.waiwerawater.co.nz) was a reminder for me to drink and rehydrate. A faint knock was heard, which signaled that I had to reluctantly leave my new aquatic refuge area and return to the table. The grand finale of this exquisite treatment ritual included a closing round of calming massage strokes and a thorough application of Jasmine Frangipani Organic Hand & Body Lotion, which helped to replenish and hydrate my skin. As my ritual experience concluded, my outstanding therapist imparted a Balinese blessing on me by saying, “Om Suasti Astu”, or “peace in your heart and in the world”. Again, I didn’t want to leave, but pried myself off of the table. My therapist waited for me outside the room and gave me another bottle of Waiwera water to drink for continued rehydration; he then escorted me to the beautiful women’s Relaxation Area.

I thoroughly enjoyed my Royal Lulur treatment. My therapist’s technique was exceptional, and magically transformed my skin with JAMU's outstanding products, while totally eliminating my stress, aches and pains; my skin’s texture was greatly improved and left silky smooth to the touch; the skin also had a noticeable glow. After the treatment, I felt incredibly lighter. The ritual experience was a beautiful sensory experience as well. The Royal Lulur Ritual exceeded my expectations. For additional information visit www.trumpchicagohotel.com.

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the spa industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker. You can email her at terry_h60559@yahoo.com.

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(Image: Spa tub, floating flowers; copyright, Huber)

SPA TREATMENTS AND PRODUCT EXPERIENCES ~ INTRODUCTION ~

OVERVIEW: Selecting the right mix of products to use during the treatment phase can make all the difference between a guest experience that is mediocre versus one that’s memorable and defines the spa experience. Furthering that experience by making sure these same products are also available to the guest in the retail area will ensure that the guest will be able to purchase the same products and re-create their treatment on an at-home basis. Consider including with their purchase a how-to guide on the proper use of the products to maximize their at-home experience. This added value will further the guest experience.

Following is a series of overviews of some recent spas I’ve experienced, the treatments received and the related treatment products used during the course of the treatment.

• Part I The Spa at Trump Hotel (Chicago, IL)
• Part II mySpa at Fairmont Hotel (Chicago, IL)
• Part III Kohler Waters Spa (Burr Ridge, IL)
• Part IV Stonedrift Spa at Eagle Ridge Resort (Galena, IL)
• Part V Avani Spa at Abbey Resort (Fontana, WI)
• Part VI Spa at Geneva Ridge Resort (Lake Geneva, WI)
• Part VII Spa at Wynn Las Vegas Hotel Resort (Las Vegas, NV)

SUMMARY: I wasn’t disappointed with the experiences or the products used and have actually found them ideally formulated and suited for an at-home experience. Of course, nothing can ever replace the skillful hands of qualified therapists and estheticians, and although the at-home experience is an acceptable interim for a spa-fix, nothing will ever replace an in-spa experience. These are experience investments that keep delivering, whether from the standpoint of at-home product use and treatment re-creation, or through memory recall of skilled hands administering the treatment.

I’d like to commend all professionals who make informed decisions on which treatment lines to use within their operation. Given the scope of product companies and products available, not too mention the new and “me-too” products entering in the marketplace that seemingly pop-up overnight, it must be a daunting task at times making the best product selections. If you’re not familiar with some of these lines, be sure to check out their websites for more information.


By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the spa industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker. You can email her at terry_h60559@yahoo.com.

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CARING DURING AN ECONOMIC DOWNTURN

I have yet to meet one individual who isn't personally impacted by the protracted recession. Many of us also know individuals who are struggling on a day to day basis to keep afloat and provide for their families. Some of these individuals may in fact be your former clients, or even former spa professionals who used to work in your spa, but had to be laid off. People are struggling and although I have my own challenges to deal with, I try to do whatever I can to help those less fortunate than myself.

I'd like for spa businesses, especially day spas, to consider having a food drive at their places of business. Visitors can donate one or more canned goods or dried goods. When enough items are collected to fill a shopping bag or two, go and donate it to your neighborhood food pantry. Or, maybe check-in on your former staff and see how they're doing and possibly donate some of the collected food to them. Help out wherever you think there might be a need.

For a greater point of promotion, consider sending out notices to your client list, or area media and other businesses promoting the food drive effort. Get a partnering effort going with other businesses. Through this type of creative and caring advertising, you may generate an even greater awareness of those in need within your community, more than likely you'll generate some free press for your spa business as well.

Along these lines, consider combining the food drive by also offering an open house with other area businesses, especially those in health care who might be able to give free health screenings or offer health-based brochures.

Let your community know that you genuinely care about what is going on with others who aren't doing so well. Change the image of your spa business from one that might have a superfluous hedonistic image, versus one that truly exemplifies community involvement and care for its neighbors.

If your spa business is already doing this, terrific. If not, won't you please consider reaching out and helping those in your community who may need your help?



By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the spa industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker. You can email her at terry_h60559@yahoo.com.

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HEIDEL HOUSE RESORT & EVENSONG SPA~PEACEFUL AND EXTRAORDINARY

Although a rather arduous drive from the suburbs of Chicago to Green Lake, WI tested my patience and perspective with all of the hideous early morning rush-hour traffic and ubiquitous highway construction, getting away from most vestiges of the hectic 24/7 life has its moments, but once I finally made it past the evil of this “stuff”, I found myself a less stressed and enjoying going down country roads that meandered through glacial terrain-ed roads of small town America; it was real sweet and melancholy. Without the road challenges, the Green Lake, WI area is slightly over three hours from the Chicago-area and west of Milwaukee. The rolling glacial hills and abundant conifers and deciduous trees makes for an idyllic setting for heading to a property like the Heidel House Resort and Evensong Spa. As a reference, the quaint town of Green Lake is named after Wisconsin’s largest and deepest fresh water glacial lake, Green Lake; the town is picturesque and crammed with antique shops and specialty boutiques; it’s definitely a tourist town that grows exponentially during the warmer months with the good-and-plenty-type folks that have their summer “getaway” homes situated around the beautiful lake.

The Heidel House Resort began as a private residence in 1890 (Heidel House), although an adjacent residence was built in 1873 (Grey Rock); the overall property was then purchased in 1899 where it continued largely as private residences for the moneyed, with additional structures being built (Stable House and Pump House). By the mid-1940s, the overall resort area really began to be regarded as a preferred lodging, meeting and dining location. From that point on, the twenty-acre resort area expanded to include seven structures for accommodation, a conference center, and an upscale restaurant. The resort is a major draw for vacationers who enjoy hiking, fishing, swimming or golfing. The resort also houses a fitness center, indoor pool and whirlpool. During the summer, there are organized water sports (fishing, boating, etc.). For an exceptional dining experience, the award winning upscale Grey Rock is a throw-back to an earlier era (1950s); overlooking the beautiful lake, this favorite “night spot” offers an impressive menu and wine list; food fare is definitely in the surf ‘n turf type although there is an equally impressive vegetarian/vegan menu to select from with wonderfully inventive and mouth-watering selections. For toned-down to casual dining, there’s the popular Sun Room, which has a lovely view of the well-landscaped terrain. The resort is also a popular meeting and retreat for corporate-types; the resort will custom design a team building experience for those on retreats; also ideal for families, the resort offers many special focused activities for the kids that are both fun and educational; some lodges also offer extended stay options for multi-week/month stays. Weddings and other special occasions are another major guest-draw for the resort. My accommodations were comfortable, especially my down outfitted king-sized bed; I had no trouble falling asleep quickly; my bathroom was a bit dated. I did have a beautiful view of the lake and opened my windows to let the clean crisp air come in while I slept; I was pleasantly awakened with the cheerful banter of songbirds, although the raucous sound of the alarm clock going off at 6:00am also kept me on schedule for an eventful day at the spa.

Given the resort’s decades-long emphasis and focus on family vacationers, the corporate meeting-types, sport’s enthusiasts and other special occasion draws, it really wasn’t until the early 2000s that the resort’s emphasis and focus finally turned to deciding to build a spa that would be distinctive and unique, and something that would brand itself like no other spa, especially within the Midwest. The resort had the land for this new and vital amenity, and decided to build the beautiful single-level structure a short walk from the resort’s Main Lodge.

The Evensong Spa first opened its doors in September 2006. Situated near a forested area, the spa is contiguous to part of the resort’s main path of carefully mapped walking trails for the outdoor enthusiast, which creates natural interest for these passers-by. This 16k s.f. spa was designed by CMD Architects, Inc. The eleven generously sized treatment rooms, also includes a couple’s suite and hydro room. There are steam and whirlpool facilities in both the men's and women's areas. Currently, there are twenty staff during the shoulder season, with that number expected to double during its high season, summer.

Design Elements: Frank Lloyd Wright-esque Prairie Style with a character that’s clean, crisp, minimalist and retro (1960s/1970s), with matching angular furniture styles (sixties acid-green colored chairs in the Spa Café; even the serviceware has a retro feel); high ceilings, very large waiting and relaxation areas that overlook nearby forested areas; floor-to-ceiling windows; huge granite fireplaces throughout. Accoutrément blends the indigenous with Asian influences; the combination is unobtrusive and comfortable. Color palette is nature-based with muted colors of beige, ochre, brown, and green; beautiful black and white wall art renderings of plant life; deep earthy natural slate floors; towering bamboo accents set in river rock, enveloping the outer perimeter of the labyrinth area. Throughout the spa, there are insightful and contemplative sayings on the walls written in flowing calligraphy, with artfully positioned variegated copper leaf, adding to the importance of a juxtaposition of mindful introspection and the nature’s beauty. The sayings are attributed to the Dalai Lama, Swami Sivanada, Ram Dass, Nietzsche, Frank Lloyd Wright, Taoism and Zen proverbs, inherently forces the guest to slow down, take some time, and become aware of them. These same sayings are part of their collateral materials, as well as their user-friendly and well designed website. The treatment rooms are named after essential oils: lemongrass (massage), lavender (couple’s), chamomile (hydro) and geranium (facial); the hair, makeup and nail areas are separate from the spa treatment area (no chemical processing of hair, or artificial nail care is offered at the spa.) Dining in the Spa Café for lunch was a wonderful experience; the emphasis on cuisine is fresh, healthy and local; I had a delicious guacamole appetizer served with jicama and cucumber, and an equally delicious chicken and avocado salad with fresh fruit; portions were rather ample (I wasn’t able to finish eating my fresh fruit, and the Café kept it chilled for me and later re-served it to me while I was getting my pedicure; that’s exemplary service!).

Performance Features: Impressive and a must-do is to journey through the spa’s eleven-circuit indoor labyrinth occupies approximately, which is a wonderful way to quietly awaken one’s inner self. Evensong Spa is the only Midwest location with a labyrinth and was also designed by principal architect Riccardo Cattapan. This labyrinth is based on a medieval design and one of the more elaborate ones in existence. It is comprised of eleven circular circuits and thirty-four turns that lead to a perfect circle in its center. It is made of slate tile and washed river stone edging; the labyrinth’s area is nearly 2k s.f. and has floor to ceiling windows and three skylights, which add spatial depth and openness to the contemplative qualities of the labyrinth’s journey. For reference, the spa offers a number of books on this subject matter for guests to peruse. All guests are encouraged to experience the labyrinth; a brief introduction with suggestions on approaching the experience is available. For guests wanting a libation or repast, the Spa Café offers menu selections from the light to the ample (soups, appetizers, salads, sandwiches, wraps, dessert and smoothies).

Products, Etcetera: Decléor, Carita, Naturopathica, SkinCeuticals, CreativeSpa, OPI, Senna Cosmetics and Prive Hair Care; robing and chenille throws by Chadsworth & Haig, and sandals by Okabashi; toweling by Cypress. All of these brands (except for the toweling) are available in the spa retail area; other items are available for purchase to extend the guest’s spa experience at home (journals, books, music, aromatherapy, etc.). When a guest checks out of the spa, any of the products used in their treatment are pulled for a final review with the guest, along with their take-home regimen prescription their therapist has prepared, which is briefly reviewed at the conclusion of the treatment. The spa’s website also lists its complete treatment product lines. With product descriptions and manufacturer’s links, this resource tool is a unique spa-goer aid, and a definite plus when it comes to taking out the mystery and guesswork in trying to figure out what product’s will be used in the treatment phase. I think a further extension of this favorable guest resource would be to consider listing which product lines are used for each treatment in their site menu of services. Another plus in the spa’s retail area where treatment product lines and other spa must-haves for the at-home spa experience are waiting to be snatched up.

Treatment Therapies: My experiences included the Evensong’s Botanical Body Journey (Donna), the Inner Journey Massage (Nick), and the signature Solar Song Pedicure (Shelley). For the Body Journey, although it was supposed to begin with a trip to the steam room for a detox inhalation, my therapist began the session instead with guided deep breathing inhalation therapy to calm and balance; once relaxed, my body was exfoliated with a private blend of cranberry herbal salt; the salts were gentle and the aroma very pleasant. Essential oil infused hot toweling was then applied to remove the salt residue; a body mask was then applied and my body and feet were wrapped in warming blankets and towels, while my therapist massaged my neck, shoulders and face with essential oil; after twenty minutes or so, I was then assisted to the in-room shower, where I rinsed off all traces of the body mask; my body was then moisturized with a very hydrating cranberry shea butter body balm; my therapist concluded this restorative treatment with various subtle massage techniques to further balance my state of calm; all of the scents added measurably to the treatment’s effect. For the Inner Journey Massage, I was first asked to select which Decléor Aromessence scents I preferred (www.decleor.com); I chose the Spa Relax (a blend of essential oils) and the Spa Relax Balm, although choosing one scent was very difficult, since I adore all of the scents. Another round of inhalation therapy and guided breathing by my therapist set the tone for this treatment, which incorporates various massage techniques, including foot reflexology; hot stones were strategically placed on the chakras, in the palms of the hands and in-between the toes, which radiate soothing and calming heat while the therapist methodically works on targeted areas of stressed muscle and tissue. Both therapists were two of the better ones I’ve had working on me in recent years and my treatments were by far the best I’ve received to date of their type; it was clear to me that both individuals not only had formidable training and experience, but that their commitment to the guest’s healing and restorative process was of paramount importance to each of them. Another outstanding treatment experience was the Solar Song Pedicure; I don’t always treat my peds to this type of treatment, and as a frame of reference, a few weeks prior to coming to Evensong Spa, I had received a pedicure from a local day spa; I thought that one was fairly good, until I noticed that the other nail technician hadn’t thoroughly groomed my cuticles. My nail tech at Evensong Spa worked her extraordinary skills on me, using a host of high-performing CreativeSpa products (www.creativespa.com); an exfoliation of feet and parts of the leg (almond oil sea salt) also soothed; the application of densely hydrating shea butter was exceptional; the grooming and subsequent OPI (www.opi.com) brilliant red polish application was also one of the better pedicure treatments I had received in recent years.

Futures: Industry veteran Spa Director Pamela R. Andreotti continues developing additional spa packages that will further emphasize wellness and holistic approaches; this will also include comprehensive fitness and body movement classes, such as Yoga and Pilates, that will occur in the spacious movement studio; also on the books is developing guided outdoor fitness hikes in the ideal natural setting.

Lastly: Overall, the emphasis on inner self and well-being and connectivity comes through beautifully at Evensong Spa; from its specialized treatments, to the design elements, and the outstanding labyrinth, Evensong Spa knows how to add relevancy and reality to the mind-body-spirit experience. This is one of the better spas I’ve experienced recently, including the level of proficiency and skill by my individual therapists and technician. This is another great addition to the Midwest's, and especially to Wisconsin’s, impressive spa population. A must-include on one’s spa circuit and a five-loofah definite!

Resources: For additional information on the Heidel House Resort and Evensong Spa, visit www.heidelhouse.com and www.evensongspa.com.


By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the spa industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker. You can email her at terry_h60559@yahoo.com.

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(Eleven-circuit labyrinth. Image by Heidel House Resort)

THE POWER WALKMAN-AN INSPIRATION TO ALL

On any given day, a remarkable thing happens at the Desert Springs, a JW Marriott Resort and Spa (Palm Desert, CA). When most people are still doing their last turn in bed, Bob Lemen (former Purdue track star, former U.S. Army Captain and retired Aetna Insurance sales executive) begins his daily ritual as the Desert Springs Spa Fitness Center leader. He’s also the leader of “the pack”, of power walkers, that is.

Big deal, you’re probably wondering. Right? Well, it is a big deal, when you consider that Bob Lemen is a youthful, physically fit, ninety-four year old gentleman, who has been motivating others at the resort with his daily power walks for fifteen years.

Bob opens up the resort’s Fitness Center at 5:00 a.m. (M-F) and begins his routine of checking out the equipment and resetting any of its programs, before the early birds start arriving to begin their sweating, moaning and groaning. Bob’s a permanent and welcome fixture of the Fitness Center, and always on the ready, just in case one of the guests can’t figure out those high-tech control panels (like me). He’s seen fitness equipment advances over the years, but none of the new-age high-tech stuff phases him in the least; so, if you need any help, have any questions, Bob can do just about anything, except guide the personal training regimens.

Okay, if 5:00 a.m. seems a wee-bit early for you, then try getting your “you-know-what” out of bed and get over to the gym no later than 7:00 a.m. and really see what Bob’s specialty is and why so many regard him as the resort’s living legend. Before setting out on his 3.3-mile course, Bob puts his walkers through a routine of stretching maneuvers that lasts about eight minutes. Bob’s walking buddies can number anywhere from a few to as many as forty, are of varied ages and fitness levels, and although women comprise about eighty-percent of the participants, the twenty-percent of men who do show up for the challenge, enjoy the rigors just the same.

Although the power walk begins outside of the gym area, meandering outside of the resort, walkers get a closer view of some of the area’s most beautiful scenery. Bob’s pace starts at a brisk thirteen-minute mile pace, a good clip at any age or fitness level (I consider myself fortunate to clock in at a twenty-minute mile pace). As the course progresses, locals from the nearby villas (an annual pilgrimage for many) often join the hearty group of walkers, which sometimes slows the pace a tiny bit; even taking this into consideration, the entire course is completed anywhere from forty-five minutes to one hour, which is still a good clip of about a fifteen minute mile.

Bob enjoys inspiring and encouraging anyone who tries. If Bob notices that any of his walkers appear to be falling behind and losing their pace a bit, he goes to the rear, offers some motivating words of encouragement or humor, and before you know it, their pace has quickened and their step more lively, and consistent. In all the years he’s been doing this, he’s yet to lose anyone along the way.

Bob reminisced that once a younger gentleman, about seventy, kept asking him all sorts of questions about what he did at the resort; finally, Bob jokingly quipped something like “. . I know what you’re up to; asking me all of these questions, just so you can try and get my job; well, you can’t have it.” Bob further reminisced that a lot of people are caught up with their weight and don’t understand their genetics; I guess many of us, including myself, try to become a weight or body-type that we’ll never attain, no matter what we do to try and achieve it. Staying active, trying and accepting who you are, are probably some of the most important things a person can do. Bob recalled how a rather plump lady showed up one day for one of his walks; she didn’t look like she’d be able to keep up with the pace, but her determination was wonderful and she finished ahead of most of the other walkers in the group. Bob was very happy for her accomplishment; it’s all about trying!

Bob’s exceptional life has kept him going, both mentally and physically; which is probably why Bob can still out-walk most people of any age. And, he has an incredible positive attitude about everything and everyone. Talking to Bob, you understand why he’s been able to keep going. He absolutely loves what he’s doing, and gets a huge kick out of taking folks out on his power walks. It really invigorates and revitalizes the group, but Bob gets these same benefits as well.

Bob’s attitude is to keep moving and just do it. You understand this when you hear about his college days as a Purdue track star (Big Ten Champion, Drake College Relays), running alongside athletes like Jesse Owens, whom Bob knew and felt was one of the greatest athletes of all time, in addition to also being a fine gentleman. Bob humorously recalls at one of his track meets, he wore his school jersey that had a letter “P” on it, for Purdue; although he came in second place (still a significant accomplishment), he learned that the radio announcer incorrectly identified him as a runner from Princeton. Bob decided to approach the announcer and correct him. It would be many years later that Bob realized that the person he had corrected all those years ago was none other than Ronald Reagan. Bob received his B.S. in Business Administration in 1938 from Purdue; his minor was in Physical Education and Psychology from Purdue. A four year stint in the Army convinced him that a “moving target is hard to hit”, which no doubt came in handy on many occasions. And, considering his history, Bob had to have been a stellar senior sales executive at Aetna Insurance before retiring after forty years of service.

Bob’s college background was definitely the foundation for his life: athlete, understanding people, and knowing all about business and salesmanship, and with Bob’s incredible longevity in the business world, it was obvious that Bob really knew how to sell anything, including himself. That’s how Bob came to be affiliated with Desert Springs, a JW Marriott Resort and Spa all those years ago.

When he and his dear wife Betty decided to settle in the Palm Desert area, they moved into one of the condos right next door to the resort. Always on the go, Bob continued his daily walking routine, staking out for himself a preferred route by the resort. Because Bob is incredibly affable, he loved engaging the resort guests in conversation and encouraging them join him on his daily treks, which locals and resort guests took a liking to. In spite of the resort having an established walking activity for its guests, it was Bob, the consummate salesman, who approached management and convinced them that he was the ideal person to lead their daily walks. Bob is without question the definitive authority on the resort’s early morning walks.

Bob’s positive attitude towards life and his deep love and devotion for his family, keeps him looking forward to the future. He loves life and loves what he does at the resort, and looks forward to each day he’s able to continue his walks and seeing others staying active. He is a humble man who enjoys being with others, talking to them and inspiring them to keep moving.

People of longevity and a keen mind are invariably asked what they do differently to achieve what many envy (or may not live long enough to experience). Bob’s approach is simple. He’s always been active, spending time each day to do some form of fitness activity; he eats whatever he wants, with moderation being the key, and he doesn’t drink or smoke. He keeps his mind active by reading a lot, enjoys a good conversation, and rarely has time to go to the movies. Bob’s too busy with life to worry about looking back. He’s focused on the future and moving forward. Bob Lemen is a remarkable man, with a remarkable history. He is an inspiration to many and is a gift that keeps on giving.


By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the spa industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker. You can email her at terry_h60559@yahoo.com.

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(Image by Benito Juarez. Bob Lemen, Spa Lobby.)

HOTEL DEL CORONADO BEACH VILLAGE & SPA

During the Victorian Era, it was de rigueur for land-locked "swells" to pack up their satchels and trunks to escape their unbearably hot and humid throat-gagging sooty and frenzied unpaved streets (escaping bitter cold winters was another excuse to pack-em up). With kids and servants in-tow, this was definitely the way to go, albeit no easy accomplishment, since this also meant taking one of the infrequent trains west to California, where the Gold Rush frenzy melded with a land where healthier climes restored the weary. Here was a place where travelers could soak in the warming rays of sunshine, breathe intoxicating and healthy Pacific Ocean sea salt air, while gorging themselves on a never-ending bounty of fresh produce and fruits de mar. Compared to points East, the pace here was definitely slower and more conducive to relaxation and restoration. Here was a land where wellness was key and available in large doses, merely for the taking. Ah, yes, those were the good ole’ days.

Overview - Nestled on the shores of the Pacific Ocean and set on twenty-eight acres of natures finest, the Victorian-era Hotel del Coronado (a short jaunt from San Diego, California) opened its doors in 1888. It quickly became the preferred destination for industrialist escapism and health seeker. Always innovative in offering the latest in premium guest care, The Del, as it’s affectionately referred to, offered exquisite amenities and accommodations, outstanding guest care, gloriously fresh food, and of course, endless sunshine and sea air year round. It wasn’t uncommon for guests to arrive in tow, along with their personal attendants and au pairs, with enough luggage to start a leather goods emporium. It also wasn’t uncommon for guests to stay for months, while their bitter winter subsided, melding into the promise of spring.

The Del even offered its guests a separate building, which housed the hotel’s curative bathing and soaking area pools. Seawater was pumped in from the ocean and then heated up, while guests enjoyed the revitalizing water. Guests at The Del swore to their doctors that the heated seawater cured them of aches and pains and other ills, imagined or real, with often the doctor’s immediate concurrence. It was a prescription for a newfound water cure, and much closer than a trans-Atlantic to Europe uncomfortable and long trek.

Since those early days, this exquisite destination has continued to provide a place of refuge and escapism for those weary and in need of an experience that is pleasurable, but also purposeful. The abundance of sunshine, seawater and fresh air, its fresh produce and fruits de mar, continues to attract the weary and frenetic traveler.

I recently visited The Del to experience its latest new additions to its immense property. One addition was the secluded luxury Beach Village, which opened up in the summer of 2007. Exquisite one and two-bedroom suites, complete with spacious living and dining spaces, overlooking the Pacific Ocean, offers the finest in décor, upscale bedding, leisure, entertainment, appliances, vanity and other accoutrement, such as indoor fireplaces, outdoor whirlpools, soaking tubs, fire pits and ocean view terraces. The overall architectural style carefully blends in with the hotel’s historic and beautiful Queen Anne style, neither of which is stuffy or over-stated. My room was luxurious, and staff care was outstanding; I looked forward each evening to turndown service, which included a lovely, thoughtful saying and a small seashell as a memento; the shells were culled from the ocean’s shore; a very sweet gesture. Beach Village also has its own Front Desk, Concierge, and the exclusive Windsor Club Cottage where guests can enjoy a leisurely breakfast, or an intimate aperitif before heading to one of the hotel’s outstanding dining establishments. Beach Village is beautiful and grand.

Another dining establishment guests enjoy is the upscale 1500 OCEAN, which serves exceptional Southland Cuisine; this style captures the pride of Southern California’s best in organic, locally grown fruits and produce, as well as premium cured meats and delectable fresh sea food. The creative menu offerings by gifted culinary artisans (like Chef de Cuisine Brian Sinnott), and when paired with eclectic wine selections, makes for an exceptional dining experience. Although a bit lower-keyed, guests can also delight in the romance of the ocean’s view and sunset in the aptly named new outdoor Sunset Bar; the light menu fare and a languid cocktail make this an ideal choice for a night cap. For a buffet to end all buffets, don’t miss the Sunday brunch in the stately and grand Crown Room. There’s plenty to do throughout this historic masterpiece for those of all ages; just walking down the boardwalk grounds you to the memories and stories made at the Del, including the story of ghost Kate Morgan, or the filming of “Some Like It Hot”. The must-visit eclectic gift shops, especially the hotel’s Signature Shop bring returning devotees back for more, almost as a pilgrimage and duty for the novice and veteran guest.

More Sensory Treats - As if this weren’t enough, now guests of the hotel and its Beach Village can luxuriate in The Del’s newly completed Spa at The Del. The Spa building houses the new Fitness Center, which is comprised of a separate workout studio and equipment area, as well as the Yamaguchi Salon.

Fitness Center - Classes offered in the studio include spinning, Yoga, Pilates, body sculpting and aerobics. Yoga and Pilates are offered indoors and oceanside; another popular outdoor class is the fitness walk. The indoor classes fill up quickly, while the oceanside classes enhance the fitness experience with its exhilarating vistas. The comprehensive equipment area offers the latest in weight and cardiovascular equipment, with certified personal trainers available to guide or train.

Yamaguchi Salon – This is another huge draw for those in search of a Feng Shui beauty consultation and salon services with the eponymous designer and lifestyle master (or one of his esteemed stylists). Billy Yamaguchi was the first one to ever recognize the correlation between, and then apply the same philosophy and principles of Feng Shui to hair, beauty and aesthetics. His global demand and appeal makes his presence at The Del a major coup for hotel guests (and locals), who often combine their hotel visit with a salon appointment, and then top it off with a treatment or two at the beautiful Spa.

Spa at the Del - The Spa’s understated, yet beautiful décor compliments the elements of nature, sea, sunshine, and airiness. In addition to its popular retail area, the Spa offers twenty-one spacious treatment rooms, including one couple’s, two Vichy, two body, four facial and twelve massage. There are sixty-five staff members, including a manager and director to oversee this exceptional spa amenity. The Spa uses a variety of skin care and body care products. The gender-specific locker rooms come equipped with steam rooms and a meditation area where healthy and organic fruit and libations are plentiful. To further the experience, there’s also a private veranda and an outdoor infinity pool with fire pit; of course, a breathtaking view of the historic Windsor Lawn and Pacific Ocean are added bonuses for spa goers.

Spa Experience - The Spa offers an impressive array of individual or package rituals of therapeutic and restorative treatments for skin and body, hair and nails. To further enhance the Spa's commitment to guest well-being. All treatment products are natural and organic-based. The highly skilled staff creates and sustains a calming, nurturing environment for the guest from the moment they arrive, until their departure. While there, I had the pleasure of experiencing one of the Spa‘s customized group sensory events that included reflexology treatments poolside; the treatment also included a revitalizing paraffin wrap and a final massage with an application of moisturizer; the Spa customizes other treatments for group events as well. Speaking of customized treatments, I wanted to experience a more in-depth body treatment compared to what was being offered on the Spa’s extensive menu. I made a suggestion for a customized adaptation of one of their restorative body treatments, the Seaside Enzyme Wrap. The treatment usually includes a gentle exfoliation, a sea enzyme wrap, and an application of lotion.

I wanted to advance some of the properties of the treatment, so I suggested to, and working with my exceptional therapist (Tammy), ended up receiving a super-customized body treatment that started with a body exfoliation using sugar and sea salt in a base of lemongrass essential oil; after this element ended, the exfoliant was removed using hot towels; this was followed by a body application of seaweed enzyme (Thalgo; http://thalgo.com). I was then completely wrapped, with the exception of my feet, which were treated to an incredible foot reflexology massage; following this, I was escorted to a wet room that had a powerful multi-jet Swiss Shower for a thorough rinse; I was towel dried and resuming my “bed position”, my body was completely moisturized with an application of shea butter (Pure Fiji; www.purefiji.com). To complete this exceptional customized treatment my hands, feet, neck and shoulder areas were thoroughly massaged. My therapist and I were very pleased with the way the customized treatment came out; the only change I would make next time would be to request that a lighter weight body moisturizer be used, since shea butter can seem a bit “heavy” and dense once the skin has been properly exfoliated and re-mineralized with a seaweed-based treatment product. Overall, my experience at the Spa was one of the better one’s I’ve had recently, and the Spa’s readiness to customize a treatment for me with such stellar results, is definitely the mark of an extraordinary spa. I give the Spa my five-loofah rating.

Accolades - The Spa has been receiving major kudos since opening in the Spring of 2007. It garnered the 2007 Conde Nast Traveler’s “Hot List” issue as one of the world’s up and coming seventy-five new spas in the world to watch, and in the August 2008 issue of Traveler + Leisure, it made its “World’s Best List” in the category “Top 20 Hotel Spas”.

Hotel del Coronado is a National Historic Landmark and one of the impressive KSL Resort properties. Whether for fun and sun, or a romantic rendezvous, wedding, or meeting, The Del offers its guests exemplary service and care, not too mention an indulgent sensory experience. Overall, The Del experience is a memory waiting to happen, and highly recommended. For more information on The Del, Beach Village or Spa, call 800-468-3533, or go to www.hoteldel.com.


By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the spa industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker. You can email her at terry_h60559@yahoo.com.

(Image by Hotel Del Coronado. View from Spa Terrace.)


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WHY SOME MAY HAVE INITIALLY MISSED THE POINT

Until the proverbial economic sky began to fall in the 4Q08, Wall Street and the U.S. Government’s portrayal of the overall economy wasn’t necessarily factual. It was more like fibbing and fudging and playing with the numbers. For sure there is plenty of guilt to go around, including Congress, Wall Street and Main Street. However, I actually began to see declines in a number of non-discretionary sectors as far back as mid-2007, and although I’m no financial wiz, I’m certainly in-tune with certain markets that included shopping at high-end stores and pricey gourmet food markets, but I especially noticed something going on in the spa industry and specifically the day spa portion. Whether it’s right or wrong, the multi-billion dollar spa industry doesn’t always receive its fair amount of recognition in financial reporting, until, of course, when that recognition turns belligerently negative and the object of ridicule and disdain by those who are clueless about a spa experience beyond what they presumably read in the media.

Never mind the recent negative press, whose rabid, sanctimonious, hypocritical and self-righteous indignation was made known to the general disenfranchised and much-maligned and abused taxpaying public by the likes of the so-called objective media and our hard-working highly esteemed (and favorability-polling numbered) members of Congress, including our newly elected president, who wasted no time going after some businesses who received hefty bailouts and then seemingly went on spending frenzies to posh locations that included spas. Never mind that these incentive reward’s events were previously negotiated and contracted as long as one year in advance, a timeframe when the world was oblivious to the economy spiraling downward. Never mind that the same Washington D.C. types didn’t skip a beat when it came to carrying through on their taxpayer funded luxury retreats (although the Republicans used mostly lobbyist donations to defray costs, which doesn’t obviate the point) in 1Q09. Suddenly, it became de rigueur to trash, ridicule and judge those who went to spas. How absolutely insane, gasp, gasp, that anyone would even need to get a massage! Pure hedonism, but not on my dime clamors Mr. and Ms. U.S. Taxpayer.

Yes, we’ve had our sensibilities jolted. Maybe that’s a good thing. But, it has taken some in the industry to grasp that even if prices are reduced, and although their business may have “it”, many may not find it viable to “come”. This is true of spa visits in general, but is especially acute in the day spa arena. Consider the following, which were prevalent in late 2006 going into 2007, long before the floor dropped in 4Q08, and which aren’t necessarily due to current economic conditions, but which do in fact impact operationally and profitably on a spa business being able to sustain itself under any economic condition or circumstance:
• The over-saturation in the marketplace of day spas and the individual businesses not being able to sustain operationally due to competition and the inability to grow the business to a point of repeated profitability.
• More similar businesses in a geographic area also translates to more purchasing options for consumers.
• Diminished employment for the day spa consumer, and less spendable income on a non-essential, such as a visit to the day spa, or any spa for that matter (travel is no longer a table item to consider). The formula used for calculating the U.S. unemployment rate omits many contributing factors that further skew the actual unemployment rate (e.g. those who are chronically unemployed and/or underemployed, those who unemployment benefits have been exhausted, etc.).
• Bread and butter issues confronting the spa consumer, creating a decrease in monies spent, or frequency of visits, and/or a total elimination of visit to the day spa.
• Diminished buying power for the spa consumer as their personal expenses increases due to subtle inflationary actions (e.g. increased fuel costs at the pump directly impacting the cost of goods elsewhere, or increased medical/health insurance costs, credit and mortgage debacles, etc.).
• The overall lack of confidence in consumer spending supported by current erratic fluctuations in the U.S. and global stock markets, which are directly and indirectly impacted by geo-political unrest.
• The devaluation of the U.S. dollar.
All of these factors eventually impact all segments of the economy, including the day spa sector of the spa industry. A treatment at a day spa is weighed more heavily by the consumer’s conundrum as a “..do I spend x-amount of money on a treatment, or do I spend x-amount of money on my living expenses..”. The situation may not be this dire to some day spa consumers, but I’m sure a number of day spa consumers are in fact experiencing this type of personal economic dilemma, given the consequences of their spending experiences. When economic issues confront the consumer, the first they usually do is pull back on the spending of non-essentials, and like it or not, going to the day spa for a treatment isn’t one of their “essentials”.

These economic factors do play into the overall decline and/or negativity of consumer confidence in spending, which also include the day spa. Given the economic challenges many are confronted with today of spending money on a massage or facial, or their bread and butter issues, the consumer will invariably turn to the latter and not the former. A person may not be able to live without bread and butter, but they definitely can live without a visit to the spa.

By Terry Herman

Terry Herman is a recognized expert in the spa industry, and regularly covers issues that include business, management, operations, customer care, treatments, products, and trends. In addition to writing and reviewing, she is also a management consultant and motivational speaker. You can email her at terry_h60559@yahoo.com.

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