Pulse September/October 2025 | Page 44

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BRINGING THE WHOLE TEAM to next year’ s ISPA Conference? A little intention can turn shared time into a powerful culture boost. Las Vegas offers countless experiences that double as casual teambuilding— from escape rooms like The Escape Game at Caesars Palace to sound baths and salt cave sessions featured at several Las Vegas spas. Cooking classes at Sur La Table or group improv at Vegas Theatre Hub also make for unforgettable bonding. The key is balance: Structure a few optional group moments around shared meals or activities, while leaving space for rest and personal exploration. In a city known for stimulation, the real takeaway might just be how your team returns— more aligned and more inspired. Pro tip: If you’ re not already building in time for a daily team debrief during Conference, make space for it now. Sharing key takeaways from education sessions and

Expo conversations isn’ t just smart— it’ s teambuilding and business development in one.

Leadership learning: Lessons from Las Vegas Conference week isn’ t just about what happens at the event venue. For spa leaders, Las Vegas is also a goldmine for real-world research. Use your downtime to d iscover wellness offerings inside top properties: Book a service and experience the full guest journey with fresh eyes.

From signature scents and locker room layouts to hospitality service scripts and custom-tailored technology, every detail is an opportunity to learn. In a luxurious twist on competitive research, visit local spas and tour retail spaces— and make sure to explore new-to-you wellness concepts that push boundaries. What would work in your spa? What wouldn’ t?

Consider it a Conference-city classroom: On-the-ground insights are a form of continuing education— offering fresh perspectives that only a corridor of creativity like Las Vegas can deliver.

Travel tactics: Timing, taxes and thinking ahead Extending your Las Vegas trip can be a smart business move— with the right planning. Book early to secure the best rates, especially at host properties that tend to fill quickly.( See ISPA News on page 8 for early bird registration information.) The LVCVA advises that midweek arrivals or departures often offer more affordable pricing.

If your bonus time includes business activities like spa visits, supplier meetings or market research, those days may qualify as tax-deductible. The Society for Human Resource Management( SHRM) advises to keep clear records of your agenda and consult a tax professional to ensure compliance with IRS and other business guidelines.

Beyond logistics, stepping away from the day-to-day can be its own strategic advantage. Use the time to reset and refocus while mapping out big-picture goals and discovering new perspectives.

Rethink ROI: With a thoughtful approach, your extended stay can be more than downtime or a business investment— it becomes a return on intention. n

ISPA IS SEEKING KNOWLEDGEABLE professionals to lead educational sessions at the 2026 Conference in Las Vegas. Please note, all sessions focus on professional development topics— sales presentations are not accepted. Interested in speaking? Contact us now at ispa @ ispastaff. com to get started.

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