Having the privilege of leading a spa on an island in the Mediterranean Coastline comes with a whole world of challenges and responsibilities, so we dive behind the scenes to find out what it takes. We sit down with Paris Kounoudis, the Director of Lifestyle at Parklane Resort & Spa to get some insight about the prolific Kalloni Spa.

1. Could you share some unique experiences that the Kalloni SPA at Parklane Resort & SPA offer?

Kalloni Spa is the only spa in Cyprus offering the largest sea view spa suite named Kalloni Spa Suite, Luxury Russian Banya Treatment suites, all of them with private saunas and plunge pools. Kalloni Spa is one of the few spas in Europe offering a pure Thalassotherapy environment, with a sequence of 3 indoor and 2 outdoor seawater pools. Our Spa is the only spa in Cyprus and maybe one of the few in Europe that have a high salinity floating pool where we perform the Watsu Massage. (Floating water shiatsu massage).

All Kalloni Spa Treatment rooms are equipped with the latest lights and sound technology offering our guests a desired experience, even allowing guests to connect their phone music to our in-room sound system. All of the treatment rooms are spacious, equipped with the latest Gharieni treatment beds and some of them have stunning views to the sea. We have an exceptional selection of spa treatments, massages and beauty services and we are the only spa in Cyprus that have certified senior therapists trained from Biologique Recherche in wellness for cancer patients.

We are the only spa in Cyprus offering the Biologique Recherche full Face and Body range. One of the main factors that differentiate us from competitors is our team of therapists and receptionists. The core of our team has been working together for many years and have plenty of years of experience in award winning spas.

2. Where did the love for hospitality come from?

The love for hospitality came when starting as a junior spa manager 16 years ago. I was emotionally touched realizing the positive impact of a spa treatment and wellness session to a guest. Moving forward working for different brands and hotels I fell in love with this job and hospitality became part of my life. Hospitality for me is when people are genuinely welcoming other people and are making them happy. Creating memorable experiences for others makes me feel the passion and the love for hospitality.

3. From a personal perspective, what are your favourite aspects of the Kalloni SPA at Parklane Resort & SPA?

My favorite aspects of our spa are the unique combination of pure thalassotherapy and top cutting-edge technology treatments we have on offer. I love our Russian Banya luxury treatments in our unique banya suites. Moreover, one of my favorites is the water shiatsu massage we offer in our floating sea water pool. All these treatments are experiences second to none which are worth experiencing.

4. Have you felt improvements at the Spa post-pandemic?

I feel that the pandemic helped our team to grow and mature professionally in a difficult environment focusing on details, mental preparation, and personal development. We went through difficult times and I am feeling that we all came out stronger and more experienced. Certainly, we have improved in every detail in terms of the spa journey focusing on hygiene and treatment standards.

5. What is the importance of wellness in luxury hospitality?

Wellness is a vital part of a luxury hospitality spa. Fitness and wellness in the hotel must be above and beyond expectations of the guests. Quality sleep, healthy eating, physical exercise, spa treatments and wellness experiences are essential for the guest experience and luxury offering. On the other hand, wellness is a fast-growing multi billion industry and from a revenue perspective wellness can significantly add to hotels additional revenue streams.

6. What do you believe goes into the creation of a successful spa experience?

To create a successful spa experience firstly you need to create a successful team. A team that will focus on quality, treatment standards, details and a genuine approach to every guest. A spa experience must be complete in terms of facilities and products but the journey will come to life from every interaction between our team members and our guests.

7. What do you believe are the motivating factors for a successful staff?

I believe that the most important factors for a successful motivated team are, always feeling respected from the management, to have clear goals, always know the long-term vision and be part of the plan. We are always trying to create the feeling of ownership for our teams and feel proud of their achievements. A team that feels appreciated can make miracles happen.

8. What is coming up for the Kalloni SPA at Parklane Resort & SPA?

Every season we are trying to add some unique experiences and enhance our spa menu. We are constantly connecting with our guests to understand the trends and their needs. Our goal is to grow the team, grow the offering of our wellness offering and add more wow factors to our favorite Kalloni Spa