Meet Tami Le, spa director at Asaya Spa at Rosewood Munich (Germany), who has more than 15 years of experience in the spa and hospitality industry.
What was the path that led you into the spa industry?
I was deeply fascinated by the energetic work involved in yoga and meditation, which ultimately inspired me to pursue a career in the spa and wellness industry.
What are the most challenging and rewarding parts of being in the spa industry?
One of the biggest challenges is adapting wellness offerings to meet the diverse needs of guests from different cultures, each with unique understandings of health and wellness. The most rewarding part is creating and guiding people on their journey to well-being and witnessing the gratitude and transformation of both guests and team members.
What is your proudest accomplishment?
I’m proud of several milestones:
- At the Hotel Botanico in Tenerife, I launched a holistic slimming program within The Oriental Spa Garden, which features 25 treatment rooms. I therefore opened a wellness-focused restaurant, trained the entire hotel team in Spanish (a language I learned in just one year) and led press, television, and multiple marketing initiatives to promote the new concept.
- At The St. Regis Mardavall, Mallorca, I managed a team of 65 including TCM doctors and developed the concept that elevated the spa to Iridium Spa status.
- At Waldorf Astoria Maldives, I oversaw a private island spa, led a visiting practitioner program, set up three fitness centers, and empowered women of the resort through leadership training. One of the highlights was collaborating with the Dior team to transform the spa into a Dior Spa.
- At Rosewood Munich, I currently have the unique opportunity to conceptualize and launch the entire wellness offering for an urban luxury hotel. This includes everything from curating treatments and rituals inspired by local culture, to designing the guest journey, selecting the right product and brand partners, and building a passionate and skilled team. It’s incredibly rewarding to shape a spa experience that not only reflects Rosewood’s “A Sense of Place” philosophy, but also meets the evolving needs and expectations of today’s wellness-minded traveler.
What has surprised you most about working in the spa industry?
I was surprised by how little awareness some cultures have about wellness, emotional wellbeing, and preventative health. Many people only begin exploring these areas after a life-changing event. Even spa professionals sometimes discover the importance of emotional and mental care only after they’ve truly immersed themselves in the spa industry.
Where do you think the industry is heading?
The spa and wellness industry will continue growing in importance with personalized treatments, holistic services, and technology playing bigger roles in the guest experience.
What’s your favorite skincare ingredient?
Vitamin C. It's a powerhouse for brightening, protecting, and revitalizing the skin.
What positions have you worked in that you feel have been most influential to your career?
Being multiskilled has shaped my career. I’ve worked as a spa receptionist, therapist, and personal trainer, which gave me a strong foundation on both guest needs and operational excellence. However, serving as a director of spa and wellness has been the most influential. Leading multicultural teams and engaging in deep, emotional guest interactions have taught me that emotional intelligence is one of the most essential qualities in a leader.
Was there a time you had to make a decision in your career that ended up changing your destiny?
Every major decision shapes our destiny, but leaving Germany to take on a leadership role in Spain without knowing the language was life-changing. Later, choosing to work in places like Fiji and the Maldives not only shaped my career but also my personal life, as I found love and became a mother. I welcome challenges as opportunities for growth: spiritually, emotionally, and professionally.
If you could work in any other profession in the world, what would you be?
I’d likely be in any leadership role that allows me to inspire and empower others to live happy, healthy, and purpose-driven lives.
How would you sum up your personal philosophy?
Be bold and curious. Go out into the world to broaden your perspective, approach life without judgment, and always listen with an open heart and mind.
How do you like to spend your time away from work?
I dedicate time to yoga and meditation to stay grounded and mindful. I also treasure quality time with my family, whether we’re traveling or simply connecting in nature. Being in the forest, the ocean or the mountains deeply restores me.
What are your three greatest priorities in life?
My baby girl; my personal happiness, which for me means being in alignment physically, mentally, and spiritually; and supporting others on their journey to happiness and empowerment.
What’s the best advice you’ve received?
“Let your conscious breath guide your mind, your movements, and your actions. Through it, you’ll find inner freedom and with that, strength.” This wisdom was shared with me by my qigong teacher and continues to shape how I lead, live, and stay grounded.