We had the chance to speak to Isabella Anderson, director of spa at Spa Avania at Grand Hyatt Scottsdale Resort (AZ), to get an inside look at the wellness sanctuary, which reopened in September 2024, following a wider resort renovation.
Can you tell me a little bit about the spa’s design?
Spa Avania is our newest wellness sanctuary featuring 19 treatment rooms and a Himalayan Salt Room, and relaxation lounge. Our guests can unwind at our private outdoor pool with poolside dining that ranges from fresh juices to celebratory cocktails or maintain their fitness routine in our state-of-the-art facility and tennis courts. We've also included a signature salon offering everything from renewing manicures to complete hair makeovers, truly making Spa Avania a complete retreat for both body and mind.
What makes the spa unique and sets it apart from other spas in the area?
Spa Avania is unique because its treatments are choreographed to the science of time. It is the first Arizona spa to align treatments with the body's natural daily rhythms, offering a holistic journey from morning awakening to evening unwinding. This innovative approach combines personalized treatments, mineral water therapy, synchronized music, and tailored nutrition to create an immersive experience respecting the body's changing needs. New treatments include Cryo Sculpt Facials, Desert Essence Wraps, CBD Trigger Point Therapy Massage, and more. The spa invites guests to enjoy 19 treatment rooms, including garden and couple-friendly options, a Himalayan Salt Room, Wave Bed, state-of-the-art exercise facilities, and various therapeutic amenities.
How would you describe your typical clientele?
The spa sees a fair mix of guests staying at the hotel and locals coming in for a day visit. We offer daily spa passes which are popular with locals looking to use the amenities.
How are you marketing the spa to local guests or those not staying at the hotel?
We offer a year-round locals program to our Arizona residents. In addition to exclusive discounts, after their sixth service, their seventh is complimentary. We want to reward our loyal locals with a service they enjoy!
Can you tell me a little bit about the creation of the menu?
The development of the menu was carefully created with the sole purpose of reflecting all the beauty that Arizona has to offer. I wanted to showcase the unique botanicals and environment that we are lucky to experience here. This is incorporated in multiple ways, from the agave massage oil used in treatments to the Sedona red clay in our body wraps and the local citrus in our facials.
What are most spa-goers looking for when they visit your spa? What treatments do most spa-goers gravitate toward?
Our spa guests are looking for a spa that offers a wide array of treatments, seasoned therapists, and holistic amenities to make their spa day even more enjoyable. Guests visit for more than just their treatments; they come to fully unwind and maximize all of the spas amenities. Spa Avania is proud to cater to all those needs.
What product lines do you carry at the spa and why did you select them?
We carry a wide selection of lines to ensure we have something to offer for every type of guest. Our most popular include Natura Bisse, Zents, and Moroccanoil. It is important to me to bring in ethical brands that have a strong purposeful message behind their line.
How many people are on staff?
I am proud to say we have a strong team of over 30+ people that are constantly going above and beyond to ensure the guest experience is nothing short of spectacular. A majority of my staff have been with this team for years, which in turn is a reflection of their happiness in the service they provide and their happiness with their fellow colleagues. I have had the wonderful opportunity to work with this team for the past 13 years. Many of my fondest memories are right here with my team at Spa Avania.
How many clients can the spa handle on a typical day?
Since we are a full-service spa with ample space, we can accommodate at max 110 appointments. That is spread across massages, facials, and our salon.
What sort of retail offerings do you offer?
After each service, the guest is given a detailed retail sheet of the products that were used in service and how to use them at home. They are all available for purchase so the guest can continue their wellness journey at home. We believe that the care for yourself doesn’t stop at the end of your service.
Are you offering any sort of spa cuisine or healthy dining options?
Thanks to our collaboration with Chef Jesse, our spa food and beverage program has evolved into a well-curated dining experience. Our food offerings put your health needs first, while still being delicious and filling. There is no better way to enjoy the Arizona sun than poolside with a cocktail made from locally sourced ingredients.
What plans do you have for the future?
The wellness industry is always evolving and advancing to the spa-goer’s needs. There is new technology, fresh products, and exciting treatments coming out. I want to bring all of that into Spa Avania so that every guest that walks through the door is able to achieve bliss.