Relax & Enjoy

"Back in the '50s American troops, some of the Kingdom's earliest tourists saw Thailand as the place for the 2 R's - Rest & Relaxation." Commmeted Peter Sng, Chairman of ISPA Asia Pacific Chapter. "Today the new generation of Western tourists a flocking back to Thailand, this time are looking for the 4 R's Relax, Reflect, Rejuvenate and Rejoice."

Therefore it is little wonder that Thailand has been chosen by International Spa and Fitness Association (ISPA) as to host the second summit in Asia entitled "The Emerging Asian Spa Opportunities" to be held at Sheraton Grande Laguna Beach in Phuket, 28-30 April 2000. It is geared towards education and business of the Spa industry and will focus on seminars by respected leaders in the Spa industry, equipment and technology suppliers. It offers two opportunities first to forge new business relationships and second to have the chance to gain a valuable insight into industry issues and opportunities. " We are expecting a maximum of 300 delegates," added Mr. Sng, "and all exhibition space has already been taken". Anyone wishing to attend or to receive further information should contact the organisers Congrex Singapore Pte Ltd E-mail congrex@congrex.com.sg

So what has caused the growth this incredible growth the Spa industry in Thailand. In a period of six years it has gone from non-existence to being the location of the top two Spas in the world, according to a recent reader's survey in Conde Naste's Traveller magazine. It placed Chiva Som in Hua Hin first place and Banyan Tree Spa Phuket second (a downward change of position, having taken first place in 1998 survey). Why? "Thailand has so much more to offer as destination" explained Naphalai Areesorn, Chairman of the Local Host Committee and Managing Director of Chiva Som, Hua Hin, " a wealth of natural herbs and spices that are not only used in cooking but are also used in the treatments offered. We are seeing a trend of Western visitors coming to Thailand for the specific purpose of taking a Spa treatment. Life is a celebration, we all need to take 'our' time to rejuvinate, that it what we as an industry can offer. When I was recently in the UK I noticed 'Spas in Thailand' was the buzzword, and that Thai massage is enjoying the same phenomenal growth that Thai restaurants did a couple of years ago."