Many cutting edge spa facilities have endeavored upon the education of their therapists in age old techniques and practices that live within the cultures that offer us an artistic palette in which to create and re-adapt ancient treatments, herbs, and tools as modalities for healing in our modern facilities. Along with the trainings, the tools, and the product lines, comes awareness, that as practitioners, these therapists do not just "perform" a therapy, treatment, or ritual, but are deeply spiritually, mentally, and physically involved with the understanding, research, and proper application of these techniques. READ MORE

While lead generation has always been an important topic, it is an issue that has really jumped onto center stage over the last couple of years. Although the growth of technology has helped in the gathering of leads, the conversion factor has not increased. So the critical question we need to explore is: how do sales professionals reliably increase their reservoir of qualified leads, and ultimately convert them to revenue? READ MORE

Keeping up with technological advancements is a constant challenge to Concierges today. How to incorporate the latest innovations into our work without losing the human touch, which is our hallmark, is also a challenge. Innovation and education are the key elements in making technology work for us and making these new products profitable for the hotel or resort's bottom line. Savvy hoteliers will find new uses for the latest inventions like Kindles and learn about the wonders of Emotiv technologies. If you haven't heard of these yet, you will find that they will be part of your vocabulary before too long. READ MORE

Has this internet access changed the need for the concierge? It is a double-edged sword. Yes, the guest has computer access, but then, so does the concierge. So, since virtually everyone now has computer access, the question becomes, "Why do guests need a Concierge?" Is it time for hotels to replace the concierge with a computer and let the guests tap out their questions onto the information highway? It is a question a lot of hotel managers are asking. Chakitan Dev, a Cornell University Hotel School professor, was recently quoted in USA Today as saying concierges are "going the way of the elevator operator" except at luxury properties. READ MORE

The demands of guests have changed over the years, as travel for both business and leisure becomes more commonplace, our visitors are exposed to different experiences, quality and insights. The internet and other new media channels have opened up the opportunity for people to share these insights so customers and potential guests have more information about hotels than simply the website, brochure and possibly a media review. 'Citizen Journalists' are the new influencers of consumer choice and they are continually looking beyond the expected for a memorable and different experience, either for business or leisure. Therefore it is more important than ever that hotels consistently exceed expectations and ensure a quality stay. READ MORE