At first blush, this may sound a bit absurd to ask because most would think that, of course, if your property has a spa facility, your General Manager would definitely be supportive of that amenity, right? Not always, unfortunately. Regardless of the scope of your spa services, there are still those few General Managers "out there" that look at spas as something that only women indulge in and that they themselves would never be caught dead having a massage or facial and definitely not allow someone to scrub the dry skin from their bodies. So they keep a wide berth from the spa and what goes on behind those closed doors will forever remain a mystery. READ MORE

In the 21st century, American spas have had over 20 years in development and have expanded to a more sophisticated venue. But by creating this menu of enticing services, have spa managers and product companies traveled too far in their claims? I think today's spa guest well understands, for example, that by applying a daily moisturizer helps to keep the skin healthy, but will not reverse the aging process. When a spa list of services makes unrealistic claims such as this, or, stating that a product or a treatment will cure your ailment, you begin to tread dangerously in the liability arena. READ MORE

We have all encountered that difficult to please guest. They arrive complaining even as they check in to the hotel, and they forge on through all the areas of the property, feeling put upon and dissatisfied. Having begun my spa career in the days that the majority of the people enjoying the spa experience were the very wealthy old moneyed rich, the majority of our guests were considered difficult to please. No matter what we did, they were unhappy. Read on for some juicy stories on difficult spa guests and how we remedied each situation. READ MORE

The health spa department of your property is a viable and a generous revenue producing outlet. Often, when searching for a manager for this area we tend to think that someone with general people skills is adequate to operate your spa facility. It is a mistake to regard your spa as an afterthought, since it can be the most active area of the hotel with the most concentrated daily usage by your guests. READ MORE

Everyone has a spa, everyone has a great hotel room and everyone is price competitive, but what about innovating on what you already offer? What about bringing the spa to the guest in the comfort of their hotel room or suite? Why not, seems like such an effortless service to offer, right? Let's have some fun with this. Spa services are becoming more and more creative and innovative with the advent of more sophisticated product lines and therapy equipment. The spa facility offers the guest a true escape from the rigors of a person's daily life and is often the best location for complete de-stressing. Or is it? READ MORE