Introduction
Spas are not a very new invention. They go back, like many other things, to the ancient Romans who invented spas. Back then it was not only a place where people took advantage of the healthy mineral water but where they could find some rest, socialize, do business, refresh their bodies as well as their minds. This idea was then lost for several hundred years and came back in the medieval ages, for instance in Carlsbad, Europe, where the famous bath industry began around the year 1300. But unlike the Romans there were only bathing and drinking cures. It was not until 1800 when the first bathing and leisure facilities were built. Only from then on did the old Roman concept of a spa really come back in people`s mind. Today the market, especially in the USA, is huge and the supply of different spa resorts is numerous (it is predicted that the spa industry will double in size every four years) ( Sabene, 2001). Considering this and the increasing number of spas, there is the question: What features in terms of Food, Fitness and Fun must a spa provide in order to stay competitive in the changing resort spa market in the USA? Offers can be almost endless, from beauty and skin care services, massages, body wraps, aquatic and other therapies or additional fitness programs to simple bathing pleasures in differently designed springs of varying temperatures. What is becoming more popular nowadays is the health-conscious eating habits of guests. This can be integrated into programs as for example in Palms Springs, USA, where there are nurses employed who guide the guests individually in terms of nutrition (Madley, 1999). Another example is the Aspen Club & Spa in Aspen, USA, that offers special products with vitamins, herbs and other organic supplements also guided by nurses and even doctors (Madley, 1999). The majority of guests are electing the spa they want to visit according to the services and facilities it offers (Madley, 1999) . So it is obvious that a spa resort that wants to attract and keep guests has to think about its programs to be outstanding.
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Inhaltsverzeichnis (Table of Contents)
- Introduction
- Spas
- History of Spas
- Spa Clientele
- Age
- Gender
- Marital Status
- Spa Market
- Purpose of Visiting Spas
- Conclusion
Zielsetzung und Themenschwerpunkte (Objectives and Key Themes)
This document explores the evolving landscape of spa resorts in the USA, focusing on the changing demands and expectations of spa-goers. The text examines the historical context of spas, analyzes the demographics of spa clientele, and delves into the key reasons why people visit spas.
- The history and evolution of spas
- The changing demographics of spa clientele
- The increasing demand for spa services in the USA
- The various reasons people choose to visit spas
- The impact of spa-related activities on guest well-being
Zusammenfassung der Kapitel (Chapter Summaries)
- Introduction: This section sets the stage for the discussion, highlighting the growing spa industry in the USA and the need to understand the factors driving its success.
- Spas: This chapter provides a historical overview of spas, tracing their roots back to the ancient Romans and their subsequent revival in the medieval ages. It then delves into the contemporary spa market, emphasizing the diverse offerings available to guests.
- Spa Clientele: This section analyzes the demographics of spa-goers, examining their age, gender, marital status, and socioeconomic background. It highlights the significant role played by "Baby Boomers" and the increasing participation of men in spa experiences.
- Spa Market: This chapter explores the motivations behind spa visits, focusing on the desire for relaxation, rejuvenation, and health improvement. It also sheds light on the various activities and services offered at spas, emphasizing the importance of tailored experiences to cater to individual needs.
Schlüsselwörter (Keywords)
This preview centers around the key concepts of spa resorts, hospitality trends, customer demographics, spa services, and guest well-being. It examines the historical evolution of spas, analyzes contemporary spa clientele, and delves into the motivations behind spa visits. Through this exploration, the document highlights the increasing importance of spas in the American market and the need for resort spas to adapt to the evolving demands of their clientele.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the historical origins of the modern spa concept?
The concept dates back to the ancient Romans, who used spas for health, socializing, and business. This holistic approach was revived in Europe around 1800 after a period in the Middle Ages focusing only on water cures.
How fast is the spa industry growing in the USA?
At the time of this study, it was predicted that the spa industry would double in size every four years due to high demand and increasing health consciousness among consumers.
Who are the primary target groups for spa resorts today?
While "Baby Boomers" remain a significant demographic, there is an increasing number of men and younger generations participating in spa experiences for relaxation and health improvement.
How is nutrition being integrated into the spa experience?
Many modern spas now employ nurses or doctors to guide guests on health-conscious eating habits, organic supplements, and individualized nutrition programs to complement their physical treatments.
What features must a spa provide to stay competitive?
To remain outstanding, a spa must offer a combination of specialized beauty services, diverse massage therapies, fitness programs, and tailored wellness experiences that cater to the guest's specific needs.
- Quote paper
- Sebastian Wagner (Author), 2002, Food, Fitness, Fun - trends in hospitality today, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/7587
