Although I'm often asked about spa trends, I've found it difficult, lately, to pinpoint any that are truly original. One, however, that has been gaining momentum recently is the farm-to-treatment-table trend. A variation on the farm-to-table concept found at restaurants, it fits well with the industry's efforts to be greener. The Spa at the Omni Mount Washington Resort (Bretton Woods,...

Although a spa is the ideal place to disconnect from technology, there is no denying that mobile apps can certainly help simplify life. Planet Beach , creator of the contempo spa concept and a leader in automated spa services, recently launched its new mobile app for iOS and Android powered mobile devices. The free app for smartphones and tablets helps...

While new nail polish shades are often introduced in honor of celebs and new movie releases, OPI has created a limited-edition green nail polish in partnership with Sandy Hook Promise, a non-profit organization that was founded after the school shootings in Newton, CT. Not available for sale, Sandy Hook Green will be given to anyone who donates $10 or more...

Two years ago, I attended St. Lucia's inaugural Health & Wellness Retreat . The event was such a success that it is now back for its third year. Scheduled for November 1-3, the retreat, which is being billed as a means to "Elevate Yourself," will include noted experts such as Cat Cora, the first and only female Iron Chef winner;...

For those who have yet to decide how to celebrate Mother's Day this year, Mirbeau Inn & Spa (Skaneateles, NY) has the perfect solution: an elaborate brunch buffet on Sunday, May 12, and an indulgent Mother Glows Best treatment (1 hour 40 minutes), available May 1-31. The treatment involves a relaxing Honey-Magnolia body soak, a shea butter sugar-scrub exfoliation, and...

I've long been a fan of Thailand's spa scene, but until recently, I never had an opportunity to explore spas in any of its neighboring countries. All of that changed last week when I found myself in Vietnam. While there, I was fortunate enough to experience treatments at several of its most inviting spas. At the Nam Hai (Hoi An),...

Despite its popularity, yoga isn't for everyone, at least that is what I used to think until I learned of some of the new hybrid versions that are emerging at resorts, spas, and studios around the world. As much as I've wanted to love yoga throughout the years, we've never been a match. However, I must admit that I would...

As a fan of tapas, it's no stretch to think that I'd also be fond of the new spa tapas experience at Esperanza, An Auberge Resort (Cabos San Lucas, Mexico). Guests who opt for the Summer Soother package (prices start at $2,525) can enjoy a trio of massage tapas, such as a head and shoulder massage, a foot reflexology massage,...

Applying makeup is a talent I don't really possess. I have friends, however, who can go from looking like Plain Janes to Mysterious Minxes with just a little eyeliner and mascara. Needless to say, I envy the skill in which they're able to transform themselves. My evening look, unfortunately, isn't dramatically different from my daytime look, which is why I've...

Although America is known for its rugged individualism, spas rely more on teamwork to keep their operations running smoothly. From the front desk staff that greets guests and bids them farewell to the estheticians and therapists who care for them in the treatment room, your spa’s staff is ultimately a team that needs to work together as one. According to Bruce Piasecki, Ph.D., president and founder of AHC Group, a management consulting group, and author of Doing More With Teams:...