Pulse Legacy Archive June 2012 | Page 18

member profile According to Spa Director Stephanie Rest, the heart of the spa is its Taj Mahal-inspired reflective pool. “Food we can grow or source locally has significant impact on our cost of sales and also gives back to our local economy and environment,” says Rest. The well-being of guests’ minds and spirits are highly encouraged at the spa. Many features are designed to encourage mental relaxation. “The true heart of the spa is a unique oasis with a beautiful reflective pool inspired by the Taj Mahal. Here, they may quiet their mind while enjoying healthy snacks,” says Rest. In addition, each treatment room now incorporates natural, calming elements such as a water feature by day and fire by night. A new ritual inspired by Thai and Caribbean traditions called “Sunset Reflection” allows guests to give thanks for the present and future opportunities. Marketing Luxury Word-of-mouth has been one of the best marketing strategies for Turks and Caicos 16 PULSE n June 2012 Spa, especially since they also rely on staff at other hotels to help promote the spa. “The spa does occasionally provide incentives for employees of other hotels to come and try our new services and products at a discounted rate,” says Rest. “This allows the other hotel staff to be properly educated and oriented to the spa while recommending us to their guests.” According to Rest, the base of their clientele is from the Northeast corridor of the U.S. “The overworked, over-commuted and time-deprived center of the world,” she says. “When they arrive at the spa, we want them to find an escape from their life and harmonize with the serenity of the spa.” They attend to the needs of tired guests by focusing on a relaxing welcome that features a scent journey and tea. Next, guests are escorted to the traditional lounge and become acclimated to the carefully designed 25,000-square-foot space. Despite fewer spas branding as luxury in today’s economy, Rest says the spa continues to do so because they directly associate luxury with customized experiences. “The philosophy of the spa leadership is to create experiences rather than simply offer spa treatments,” she explains. The individualized experience extends to the spa’s couple guests, especially since the island in itself is also a popular wedding destination. While spa packages for couples are still in the works, the spa currently offers the services of a wedding coordinator. Having a dedicated person to coordinate all their guests’ needs, says Rest, is part of the level of customer service that the Regent brand affords to its guests. Multi-generational families spending holidays are also common, as well as business trips. “The hotel’s position as a destination for incentive-based business groups is rising,” she claims, adding that