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Portland, OR: Any recommendations for spas that cater to men? Or spas that offer spa packages for men?

Lynne Walker McNees : Men make up 31% of spa-goers and there are plenty of great options available to them. There are men-only spas in nearly all major cites including New York, Washington, D.C. and Seattle.

Additionally, many ISPA members offer special packages and treatments for men. You can visit the "Visit a spa" section of http://www.experienceispa.com/ISPA/ to find men-only spas as well as spas that offer packages for men.

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Austin, TX: Could you tell me a little bit about the newest trends and/or treatments at spas? Thank you.

Lynne Walker McNees : As the spa industry is the fourth largest leisure industry, there are lot of trends to talk about! As the spa lifestyle is woven more prominently into mainstream culture, several newsworthy trends are actually becoming expectations for spa-goers.

Notable trends include: Spas worldwide are offering one-of-a-kind experiences to guests, while also creating a unique point of differentiation between each property, by incorporating elements into treatments that are indigenous to each locale. Incorporating local ingredients into a spa's offerings makes the experience even more interesting, rejuvenating and memorable for the guest.

ISPA members have also seen a surge in spa-goers looking for healthy aging treatments that deliver results. The emphasis for spa-goers is increasingly that of self-preservation. Therefore, spas have gained a new aura of respectability.

Spa at home -- From cooking classes, to lessons on balance and managing stress, lifestyle classes at spas teach guests how to take the healthy lessons of the spa home with them. Additionally -- spa décor -- including tubs, showers, products and massage tables as well as clothing and candles is mainstream.

Spas are in health clubs, resorts/hotels, doctors are adding spa elements to their practices, and you can find treatments being offered in airports, malls and on cruise ships. Additionally, there are spa lifestyle communities and living at the spa through rental and ownership programs at destination and resort/hotel spas.

Spa-ing as a group -- Groups going to spas (families, girlfriends, business associates, bridal parties) is an ongoing movement. For those who are new to spas, a group outing may be a more comfortable setting. Activities such as hiking, yoga and dance classes are popular with groups. And, spa suites are a popular way to accommodate several people at the same time for treatments.

Booking time, instead of a treatment -- Reserving a block of time, instead of a treatment, gives the consumer the flexibility to choose what they want based on how they feel when they arrive at the spa. It's all about consumer demand

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Brooklyn, NY: Hi, My brother and I are looking to take a trip together. I am adventurous and my brother has never left the country. We are both in our 20's and we are looking at everything from Southeast Asia to Europe as options. We are open, but do not want to spend too much. My brother is in law school and I am working, but have limited time off. Our trip will be in August for 7-10 days. Can you provide suggestions on interesting international destinations for my brother and I that won't break the bank?

Thanks,

Derric

Lynne Walker McNees : Hello Derric - this sounds like a great adventure! I suggest that, first of all, you do your homework. Look for locations where the dollar is strong. ISPA has many travel agents as members and they are a great resource for planning a spa vaction outside of your own country. You can access ISPA's travel egent members on our Web site at www.experienceispa.com.

Countries with numerous spas include Thailand, China, Indonesia in Asia and Germany, Ireland and Scotland in Europe. SpaAsia Magazine as well as http://www.spafinder.com/ and http://www.spamagazine.com/ are additional resources that should prove helpful.

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Pasadena California: I am a seminary student on a budget but would love to enjoy a spa with a friend to celebrate my upcoming 30th birthday. I live in Southern California and know that there is an abundance to choose from. I am looking for one in the surrounding area (within 100 miles) that is relaxing, a retreat and somewhat affordable.

Lynne Walker McNees : You are in luck as you live in an area that has a wealth of ISPA members. ISPA's Web site has a function that allows you to search for spas within a region. You can access that function from http://www.experienceispa.com/ISPA/, then click on "Visit a Spa," followed by "Search for a Spa."

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Lynne Walker McNees : Thank you for all of your questions. As the voice of the spa industry, ISPA strives to educate consumers on the benefits of the spa experience. ISPA's Web site is a great resource for additional questions - http://www.experienceispa.com/ISPA/ and you can e-mail the ISPA staff at ispa@ispastaff.com.

Have a great day! Lynne Walker McNees, ISPA President _______________________