T&L's Top Destination Spas 2009

Sedona, Arizona's Enchantment Resort, Mii amo Spa

Travel + Leisure magazine has named their top 10 list of the world's best destination spas - including eight spas in the U.S. Arizona has the most spas on the list, Canyon Ranch Tucson, Miraval, and T&L's highest ranked property Mii Amo, a Destination Spa at Enchantment. California claimed second spot with two spas - Golden Door Escondido and the Oaks at Ojai. Mexico was the only other country to make the list: Maya Tulum Wellness Retreat & Spa on the Yucatan Peninsula, and Rancho La Puerta, in Tecate.

Travel & Lesiure's Top Destination Spas for 2009:

1. Mii Amo, a Destination Spa at Enchantment Sedona, Arizona

2. Maya Tulum Wellness Retreat & Spa, Mexico

3. Miraval, Arizona Resort & Spa

4. Canyon Ranch in Lenox Massachusetts

5. Lake Austin Spa Resort Austin, Texas

6. Rancho La Puerta Tecate, Mexico

7. Canyon Ranch in Tucson, Arizona

8. Golden Door Escondido, California

9. The Oaks at Ojai California

10.The Lodge at Woodloch Hawley, Pennsylvania

About the list:

Travel & Leisure's "World's Best" lists are based on results of a questionnaire made available online to Travel + Leisure readers. Respondents are permitted to complete the survey only once, and are screened in an effort to remove responses from travel industry professionals. More than 15,000 readers participated in the 2009 World's Best Awards survey.

Spa Industry to recognize Lance Armstrong as Humanitarian

Lance Armstrong at the 2001 Tour of Switzerland

He is known for his amazing determination, athletic prowess, and ability to motivate people around the world to 'dare to change your life' through his Live Strong campaign. Now Lance Armstrong will speak to thousands of spa professionals who live wellness everyday at the 2009 International SPA Association's Conference & Expo, Oct. 5-8 in Austin, Texas. Armstrong will be honored with the 2009 ISPA Alex Szekely Humanitarian Award.

"Lance Armstrong is an inspiration to millions. His tireless humanitarian efforts have raised awareness and education towards a disease that has affected so many," said ISPA Chairman Jean Kolb. "As this year's closing keynote speaker, he will share his story of survival and how he incorporates wellness into his everyday routine, which has helped him overcome so many obstacles."

Armstrong, a native of Texas, will speak about how he beat cancer by simply focusing on one thing - recovery. This message will resonate with spa industry professionals as they are simplifying their businesses and getting back to the basics of spa by focusing on wellness. In taking a step back and allowing himself time to work on his health, Armstrong was able to achieve incredible success. Connecting your mind, body and spirit will get you on the road to wellness.

The ISPA Alex Szekely Humanitarian Award is given to ensure that the late Alex Szekely's vision for ISPA and humanity continue to resonate for years to come. Past recipients include Deborah Szekely, founder of Rancho La Puerta; Dr. Kenneth Cooper, founder of the Cooper Institute and Aerobics Center; Ruth Stricker, founder of The Marsh, a Center for Balance and Fitness; Dr. Michael Jacobson, co-founder of CSPI; Dr. Maya Angelou, author, actress and civil-rights activist; and Sir Sidney Poitier, Oscar-winning actor, writer, director and diplomat.

Armstrong will accept the 2009 ISPA Alex Szekely Humanitarian Award during the closing General Session on Thursday, Oct. 8.

For more information, visit:
http://www.experienceispa.com/2009Conference/
http://www.livestrong.com/

YYOGA launches sixth location in Vancouver

YYOGA Flow Wellness opens in Vancouver

Just minutes from the serenity of Stanley Park, and the crash of waves on English Bay, YYOGA has launched their sixth location - Flow Wellness. The new center is situated in downtown Vancouver steps from the popular West End and Yaletown neighborhoods and a stone's throw off world-famous Robson Street.

The new location provides a modern and healthy environment that supports a strong sense of community, where everyone can move, breathe and have fun together. The center features: three yoga rooms; four wellness rooms for massage, acupuncture and other wellness services; an infrared Sauna; shower and change room facilities; mat and towel service; a relaxation lounge; and eco-boutique.

The new location offers over 150 classes per week designed to invigorate, strengthen and relax the body. YYOGA places an emphasis on a mindful and safe practice, believing yoga should be accessible to everyone - including those new to yoga. Classes include: Flow, Power, Hot, Hatha, Yin, Anusara Inspired, Core, Pilates, and YRide.

The idea behind YYOGA is co-founder Terry McBride who also co-found Nettwerk Music Group, which represents Sarah McLaughlin. Since taking his first yoga class four years ago, McBride has been sold on the health and wellness benefits of the practice. With six locations in British Columbia, McBride plans to expand YYOGA across North America.

YYOGA Flow Wellness