MEMBER PERSPECTIVES
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“ We ’ ve seen that connection with guests wanting to get out and reconnect and have these special occasions at spas like they used to .”
— NICHOLAS WATKINS then evaluating your offerings and elevating the experience by layering treatments and amenities that allow for both relaxation and reconnection . RockSpa offers two specialized couples services , the most robust of which includes an aromatherapy journey , a full body scrub , a hydrating wrap , a scalp treatment , a couples soak , champagne and chocolates .“ We could probably build a few more couples rooms in the spa ,” McLean says .“ I think that ’ s something we need to be mindful of — a growing population of people , whether it ’ s mothers and daughter , sisters , girlfriends or traditional couples , with interest in those experiences . It ’ s not just the traditional couples massage but that two-hour , three-hour , four-hour experience together . I see that growing as well .”
Tina Lyons shares another important aspect of developing and promoting these kinds of spa experiences : remember that , though the spa may be growing into a more social space , but the reasons people seek it out have not changed drastically .“ People are looking for connection . They ’ ve really had to tighten their social circles . But the most important part for people right now is physical touch . That ’ s something that ’ s missing in our society , and a lot of people struggle with that . They can ’ t hug ; they can ’ t shake hands . The other part that we often hear is that stress levels are really , really high , and mental health is a big part of that .” As a result , Lyons is mindful of the importance of maintaining the traditional effects of a spa experience , even if the packaging changes the way that experience is delivered .
At Rock Spa , Ginger McLean anticipates the continued growth of wellness-focused group services .
In a world where people have spent so much of the past two years feeling disconnected from one another and fatigued by pandemic-related stress , it makes sense that they would seek refuge in the calming interior of a spa . But if the experiences of the four spa leaders highlighted here are anything to go by , many people are also seeking refuge in the presence of a beloved partner , family member or friend as they seek to maintain and even strengthen their connection to each other after such a trying period . As Nicholas Watkins puts it ,“ Opening up that door and offering more of a variety when it comes to couples experiences , it ’ s a lost opportunity if you ’ re not offering it .” •
FEATURED SOURCES |
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KEELY GALVAN Spa Operations Manager WELL & BEING SPA AT THE FAIRMONT PRINCESS SCOTTSDALE |
TINA LYONS Spa Director BOATHOUSE SPA & BATHS OAK BAY BEACH HOTEL |
GINGER McLEAN Director of Spa Operations HARD ROCK ATLANTIC CITY |
NICHOLAS WATKINS Director of Spa & Wellness PARK HYATT AVIARA |
36 PULSE • APRIL 2022 |
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