Advertisement
"Just as you can find a hotel, restaurant or pair of shoes in any pricerange, there is a spa experience out there for everyone," said ISPA PresidentLynne McNees. "ISPA's research shows that the average cost of a spa treatmentis $79, which means you can relax, reflect, revitalize and rejoice at a spafor the cost of going out to dinner, playing golf or seeing a play orconcert."
Advertisement
One in four Americans has been to a spa and stress is bringing themthrough the doors. "The main reason that people go to spas is to reduce andrelieve stress," said ISPA Chairman Jim Root. "With concerns over the economy,combined with our 24/7 society of BlackBerries, cell phones and traffic,people are realizing they must take time out to recharge their batteries andare turning to the spa lifestyle as a necessary part of a healthy routine."
When ISPA and research firm The Hartman Group asked spa-goers what theywould spend $200 of additional discretionary income on, a spa visit came infirst for nearly 60 percent of American and Canadian spa visitors. The studyalso showed that dining and shopping finished second and third respectively,while concerts, movies, golf and spectator sports finished much lower.
Are you ready to relax? These six insider tips will keep you fromstressing over costs at the spa:
Additional cost-saving tips will be available in June in the debut issueof LiveSpa magazine. Available at ISPA member spas and including timelessinformation such as how to choose a spa and what to expect from a spaexperience, LiveSpa will speak directly to the brand-new (or relatively new)spa-goer. To pick up a copy or find a spa experience that fits your needs,check out all of ISPA's members by visiting www.experienceispa.com.
About the International SPA Association
ISPA is recognized worldwide as the leading professional organization andvoice of the spa industry. Founded in 1991, ISPA advances the spa industry byproviding invaluable educational and networking opportunities, promoting thevalue of the spa experience and speaking as the authoritative voice to fosterprofessionalism and growth.
CONTACT: Debra Locker, International SPA Association* Off Is On - Book an appointment in the morning, mid-week and during the off-season. By beating the crowd you'll score a spa deal. * Packaged Deal - Many spa directors report that packages are often discounted up to as much as 20 percent off the regular individual prices. With 70 percent of spas offering packages, these deals are easy to find. * Group Mentality - Bring your friends, family or co-workers and save. For example, you and your significant other will have no trouble finding a deal on a couples package as 46 percent of spas offer them. * Make a Day of It - Turn a 60-minute spa experience into a full day! Spas offer a wide range of complimentary amenities for you to enjoy, such as relaxation rooms, steam rooms, fitness centers, pools and healthy snacks and beverages. * Score Online - Besides often checking your favorite spa's Web site for any new promotional postings, you should also sign up to be on the spa's e-mail list. * Taking It Home - Take the spa experience home by learning techniques from your treatment that you can practice in your daily life. Ask your therapist for pointers on stretches, breathing techniques and home remedies, as well as product recommendations.
