LEXINGTON, Ky. - Journalists from global television networks, the world's largest newspapers and popular magazine titles will be introduced to 25 top spas at the 2006 International SPA Association Media Event. Set for July in New York City, the ISPA Media Event is the longest running and most respected event for journalists who cover the spa lifestyle, wellness, travel, leisure, beauty and business.

Bangkok, May 17, 2006 - ISPA 2006 Thailand International Spa & Wellness Conference and Exhibition officially closed in resounding success lauded by exhibitors, trade buyers and visitors. The event which was dubbed as the "Best ISPA Asia Pacific Event to date" was held last May 3-5, 2006 at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, Bangkok, Thailand. It was attended by more than 312 conference delegates with the participation of about 174 exhibitors representing Asia, the Middle East, Europe and the North America.

LEXINGTON, Ky. - As the spa lifestyle is woven more prominently into mainstream culture, several newsworthy trends are actually becoming expectations for spa-goers. As the respected voice of the spa industry, the International SPA Association keeps a pulse on current and future trends through its network of 2,500 members in 73 countries.

LEXINGTON, Ky. - The International SPA Association proudly announces that Hay House has been named the official Inspirational and Self-Help Publisher of ISPA.

The following volunteer leaders for ISPA and the ISPA Foundation are set to lead both groups on a strategic path into the future. By serving as board members, these dedicated volunteers commit time and resources throughout their terms and work in harmony to strengthen the spa industry.

LEXINGTON, Ky. - During the 15th annual International SPA Association Conference & Expo, leading spa professionals re-ignited their passion for the industry they love, while making the bonds of the ISPA community even stronger. Held Sept. 30 - Oct. 3 at the Gaylord Texan Resort & Convention Center in Dallas, Texas, United States, the 2005 ISPA Conference included nearly 2,500 attendees from 40 countries.

LEXINGTON, Ky. - There's hardly any topic in the spa industry that is more heavily discussed than retail. With that in mind, the International SPA Association and the ISPA Foundation have partnered to create a retail management course.

LEXINGTON, Ky. - The International SPA Association Foundation is in the process of creating an endowment fund. The ISPA Foundation Endowment Fund will provide educational grants to foster practical spa industry experience and further spa-specific education.

LEXINGTON, Ky. - A spa industry pioneer who has dedicated more than 65 years to defining and enhancing the spa experience will be honored during the 2005 International SPA Association Conference & Expo, Sept. 30 - Oct. 3 in Dallas, Texas, United States. Deborah Szekely, founder of Rancho La Puerta and Golden Door, will be presented with ISPA's 2005 Alex Szekely Humanitarian Award on Friday, Sept. 30.

Lexington, Ky. - The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 210 thousand women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer during 2005. This alarming statistic has motivated members of the International SPA Association to raise awareness of breast cancer and provide essential retreats for patients and survivors.

Lexington, Ky. - Who deserves a spa break more than a teacher? In an effort to acknowledge teachers' vast contributions to children, humanity and society as a whole, several ISPA members are offering relaxation tips, treatments and packages designed for the nation's three-million teachers.

LEXINGTON, Ky. - The International SPA Association has updated and redesigned its association and Conference Web sites and combined them under one site - http://www.experienceispa.com/. Launched on April 1, the redesigned and updated Web site is a reflection of the ever-growing spa industry.

LEXINGTON, Ky. - Spas, once mistakenly thought to be only for the well-to-do, are finally getting the recognition they deserve. You see them everywhere - airports, doctors' offices, on television commercials and in cities both large and small around the world.

LEXINGTON, Ky. - As the International SPA Association begins its 15th year, the association's new Board of Directors looks strategically to the future. Led by newly-elected Chairman Kate Mearns, the ISPA Board is responsible for overseeing the affairs of the organization, which includes approximately 2,300 members in 69 countries.

LEXINGTON, Ky. - In a city that's known for doing things with a grand flair, there was nothing grander in Las Vegas the week of Nov. 8 than the ISPA Conference & Expo. Held Nov. 8-11 at the Venetian, a record-breaking 3,000 attendees made the 14th annual ISPA Conference & Expo the most successful one to date.

In a context where American consumers are looking for ways to slow down, simplify and feel connected, the spa experience is increasingly becoming a more sought after and relevant lifestyle experience.

In its role as an industry leader, ISPA commissioned the first ever comprehensive study of the spa industry in 2000. This study was the first of its kind to address key issues such as industry size, revenue, employment and growth.