By LITIA MATHEWSELL
Increasing consumer demand for spa and wellness has witnessed a surge of competition in this industry.
New outlets have sprung up all over the country, particularly on Denarau Island in Nadi.
Mandara Spa at the Sofitel Fiji Resort is no doubt one of those which have managed to provide an aesthetic service of excellence.
Modeled after a traditional iTaukei village, Mandara Spa has been shortlisted in the Spa and Wellness category at the AON Fiji Excellence in Tourism Awards 2013.
The awards will be held tonight at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa.
Spa area director, Anne Hazelman, said the nomination is an honour as 95 per cent of their staff joined without prior spa experience until they received in-house training.
“As a company, Mandara has given opportunities to high school graduates with potential to be great spa service providers,” she said.
“Mandara has found that the purity in the service provided proved to be the success in wholesome spa service with the right attitude in giving.”
Ms Hazelman notes the nomination has given them a feeling of appreciation and recognises the hard work, dedication and passion given to their local and international clientele.
She is also positive about Fiji’s potential as an international spa destination.
‘‘With training, commitment, marketing, innovation and sustainability, we are in the right place, we are Fiji, we have our natural bula spirit and our Fiji island hospitality,” Ms Hazelman said.