ABOVE: Six Senses Integrated Wellness
A look at innovators now launching targeted new wellness programs
Now that having a spa is a given, many hotels are taking their wellness offerings to the next level by offering targeted programming that allows guests access to expertise once just found at destination spas—without the need for a weeklong commitment. Here’s a look at how innovators are catering to their wellness-minded clients.
Halekulani Living-Well
Set on a shimmering section of Waikiki Beach, with views of the water and Diamond Head, the historic Halekulani has long been one of Hawaii’s top resorts. As a complement to its SpaHalekulani (where some of the treatments are inspired by Polynesian healing traditions), the hotel recently launched a Living-Well program built around a series of hour-long lectures, each focusing on a specific topic, from work-life balance and the power of positive psychology to healthy ways for tackling a sweet tooth.
Complimentary for hotel guests ($25 for outside visitors), the lectures are led by in-house Lifestyle Coach Kamala Skipper, a former attorney and pro athlete who made her own lifestyle change, and now helps equip clients with the right tools to self-motivate and create lasting results. The resort also recently launched a Living-Well Package that includes four nights’ accommodation, complimentary airport transfers, daily healthy breakfast and afternoon snacks, preset spa services and two lifestyle coaching sessions with Skipper. halekulani.com
Aman Wellness
Located in spectacular destinations around the world, from Bali and Montenegro to Utah and Bhutan, Aman Resorts have always focused on creating meaningful experiences and connections. Launched last May, the Aman Wellness program aims to do the same—though the primary connection made may be with yourself. “Wellness is not only related to the physical, but also to the strength of the connection between body and mind,” explains Aman Chairman Vladislav Doronin, who helped spearhead the new program. “Aman Wellness seeks to empower guests with the guidance and confidence needed to adopt an all-encompassing lifestyle.”
Guests can choose between Individual Wellness Immersions that are customized and available at any time, and Group Retreat Experiences that will take place throughout the year. The first individual programs launched at two properties last August: Amanbagh in India is offering four- to 21-night Ayurvedic journeys, while Amanpuri in Thailand has programs focusing on fitness, weight loss, cleansing and awareness. Recent group options have covered topics like Spiritual Immersion, Mindful Living, Alignment & Awareness and Low-Energy/Sleep issues; the latter retreat was held at Aman’s new hot springs resort in Japan. aman.com/wellness
LEFT: Six Senses Integrated Wellness; RIGHT: Aman Wellness
"Wellness is not only related to the physical, but also to the strength of the connection between body and mind,” explains Aman Chairman Vladislav Doronin, who helped spearhead the new Aman Wellness program.
Six Senses Integrated Wellness
Following two years of development with a team of top doctors and wellness pros, this eco-conscious hotel and resort brand launched Six Senses Integrated Wellness, in which programs are tailored to tackle the unique health and lifestyle issues of each guest.
Integrated wellness experts at each spa will analyze guests using a finger oximeter (which measures key physiological biomarkers like heart rate, tissue oxygen uptake, arterial stiffness and stress parameters), as well as the Electro Interstitial Scan-Galvanic Skin system and BIA method, which analyze body composition. The team then creates a custom, results-driven program of spa treatments and fitness and wellness activities for the stay, mixing Eastern and Western approaches and focusing on building blocks such as prevention, nutrition, sleep health, balance and mindfulness.
Staff will also speak with guests about their challenges and goals and can tailor programs to address specific concerns like weight loss, stamina, muscle tone or a weakened immune system. Following a post-program consultation, guests will receive take-home tips and advice for continuing their path to wellness. The Integrated Wellness programs are currently available at several Six Senses locations around the world, including resorts in the Maldives, Portugal and Thailand. sixsenses.com
Rocco Forte Spa
While the Rocco Forte portfolio is heavy on city hotels, the Britain-based brand’s recently launched Rocco Forte Spa program aims to offer travelers a resort-style wellness experience wherever they might be.
Inspired by and developed at the stunning Verdura Resort on the Sicilian coast, the program brings together four of the company’s existing initiatives for a more comprehensive approach: Organics (the potent house line of skincare products made with natural ingredients like Sicilian olive oil, oranges, prickly pear and Geraci spring water); Rituals (specialty spa treatments); Fitness (a mix of the latest technology and equipment with innovative trainers); and Nourish (tasty, healthy food developed in partnership with local chefs and nutrition experts). A complete experience begins with a pre-arrival questionnaire that logs a guest’s health details, dietary preferences, and fitness, stress and wellness issues. Upon arrival, the guest will meet with the on-site director to chat more about goals and challenges, and go over the suggested schedule of workouts, spa treatments and active excursions.
The entire hotel team is aware when guests are on a dedicated wellness program, so you’ll find healthy snacks in the room instead of the standard minibar and restaurant menus customized based on your workout needs. The goal is “to help your body to work, and to make wellness not just a service, but a core part of the experience,” says Marcello Mulato, sport and fitness manager at Verdura, who helped develop the program. “The result might not be one big change, but a series of small ones that can make a difference.” roccofortehotels.com
ABOVE: Aman Wellness
Westin Hotels & Resorts Fitness Concierge
Over the last few years, Westin has helped countless guests hit the road while traveling through its RunWestin program, in which Run Concierges host group runs, provide scenic running maps, and (in many locations) lend guests sneakers, workout equipment and Fitbits for use during their stay. (In the last three years, the number of Run Concierges has jumped from 30 to 200 globally.) Now, inspired by their increasing number of wellness-minded guests, the brand has expanded the program to include a variety of targeted Fitness Concierges who can help “take the stress out of staying active on the road,” explains Bob Jacobs, vice president of brand management.
At The Westin Bear Mountain Golf Resort & Spa outside of Vancouver, you’ll find a Tennis Concierge to help perfect your swing, while Arizona’s The Westin Kierland Resort & Spa boasts a Hike Concierge, who leads four-mile treks into the Sonoran Desert, and a Golf Concierge who has created a unique mountain biking/golf workout. Book a session with a Surf Concierge at The Westin Los Angeles Airport (which includes transportation to and from the beach, plus the use of a surfboard and wetsuit), or get some tips from the Ski Concierge at The Westin Monache Resort in Mammoth, CA. westin.com/movewell
Rosewood Hotels & Resorts Asaya Program
Recognizing that wellness has become a more significant part of how “we work, eat, sleep and socialize,” this global brand’s new Asaya program is rooted in both self-discovery and self-acceptance. Guided by a personal Wellness Concierge, local practitioners, on-site pros and visiting experts, guests will discover flexible solutions that meet their needs, and learn how to incorporate those practices into their daily lives. Skincare treatments from Maison Cauliéres and EviDenS de Beauté, indoor and outdoor fitness sessions, culturally authentic therapies and more are part of the experience. To make wellness more social, small groups can also spa together in signature suites and villas. The first Asaya program will launch in April 2017 at the Rosewood Phuket, with more locations rolling out soon after. rosewoodhotels.com
LEFT: Rocco Forte Spa; RIGHT: Westin Hotels & Resorts Fitness Concierge
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