Demand Fuels Spa Expansion

CHERNG TALAY: Phuket is quickly becoming known as the place to be pampered. A surge in demand for professional spa services led the Banyan Tree Spa to open its second facility on the island, along with a third now on the drawing board. Last week, the latest Banyan Tree Spa was officially opened at the Sheraton Grande Laguna Beach. Guests can choose from a variety of relaxing body treatments, massages, skin care and beauty services, in addition to workouts in a fully-equipped fitness center. Banyan Tree Spa Director Ziya Birkin told the Gazette today that the new US$400,000 facility will accommodate the high demand for spa services from Sheraton guests, noting that the 12 pavilions inside the neighboring Banyan Tree Phuket resort were often fully booked. “People are working harder than ever,” Birkin commented. “Hotels used to just put in tennis courts and exercise rooms for their guests – these days it’s spas.” The executive said plans are underway for a new spa to be constructed at the Dusit Laguna Resort Hotel under a new branding. The facility is scheduled to open in mid-1999.