The Istanbul Insight
What many modern spas are missing.
I'm thrilled to be invited by
to contribute to with an audio series called, "Tending the Temple," exploring wellness culture's ancient roots and modern expressions in hospitality.My first piece was inspired by my visit to Istanbul's Museum of Hammam and the stark contrast I observed between the dynamic social roots of spa culture and the quiet, almost library-like modern spa environments where people speak in hushed tones.
While wellness has become more social on many levels with popular group experiences for solo travelers, extended families, and like-minded seekers, the spa experience still often remains solitary. I wondered: How did this shift happen, and how might we restore the social element to spa experiences?
Take a listen here:
(00:20) My recent hospitality experience
(00:44) The roots of a spa in Istanbul
(01:16) Ancient Greek bathhouses
(02:01) Modern U.S. spa culture
(02:43) History of relaxation
(03:16) Emergence of "alone time"
(03:59) The shift from social to solitary
(04:22) Extending guest stays in wellness
(04:54) New social spa spaces
(05:16) Promoting community in spas
(05:37) Encouraging social interactions in spas
Listen more:
My interview with Josiah…
Read more:
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Music for this show is produced by Clay Bassford of Bespoke Sound: Music Identity Design for Hospitality Brands