The following interview was conducted at the Global Wellness Summit 2025 in Dubai
In this episode of Wellness Wisdom, Spa Life speaks to Judith Ertler-Hofer, an internationally respected spa consultant and educator with a wealth of experience in luxury hospitality and wellness.
SPA LIFE: What trends would you personally most (or least) like to see gaining momentum in 2025 and beyond, and why?
Judith: A trend I personally welcome is the growing desire for reconnection — with oneself, with a partner, with friends, with family, and with nature. This sense of belonging and the inner feeling of “I am good just as I am” is becoming increasingly important. When I travel or stay in a hotel, this is exactly what I want to experience: arriving, feeling accepted, and recharging from within. I believe offerings that cultivate this emotional comfort and authenticity will continue to gain momentum in 2026 and beyond.
SPA LIFE: What are the most challenging operational issues you find in your field, and how do you address these issues to improve efficiency without compromising quality?
Judith: In terms of operational challenges, the greatest difficulty lies in having the right number of people to deliver real value to the guest. Efficiency does not mean assigning ten staff members to one guest — especially if the service is mindless or inattentive. What truly matters is having people who think ahead, who are mindful, and who use common sense to create a meaningful guest experience. Quality comes from attitude and awareness, not from sheer headcount.
SPA LIFE: How do you see digital tools and technologies impacting spa operations, customer service and client engagement?
Judith: Digital tools are absolutely necessary today, but they must be implemented in a way that supports rather than complicates. Technology should simplify processes, enhance clarity, and make service smoother — not create extra work. When digital solutions are integrated thoughtfully, they can significantly improve both operational efficiency and the overall guest journey.
SPA LIFE: What advice would you have for new Spa-Goers?
Judith: My main advice for anyone visiting a spa is: don’t stress — indulge. A spa experience is not a competition; it’s a beautiful, personal journey. Allow yourself to let go and fully relax.
As a new spa-goer booking for treatments, I always recommend asking the therapist what their specialty is. Choosing a treatment that aligns with the therapist’s passion or expertise usually results in a truly exceptional experience.
SPA LIFE: Spa professionals are often seen as wellness role models. What are some of your favourite personal routines or tips for managing stress and practicing self-care?
Judith: One of my favourite spa-related self-care tools is the infrared sauna — to me, it feels like a superpower for regeneration, relaxation, and wellbeing.
In everyday life, I follow a few simple habits that help me stay centered including;
* No screen time for the first 30 minutes after waking up, which gives my mind a calmer, more grounded start to the day.
* A daily Bulletproof coffee, which is a small ritual that energizes me and simply makes me feel good.
ABOUT JUDITH ERTLER-HOFER
Judith has extensive expertise in managing high-end spa operations and consulting for prestigious spa resorts worldwide. Her hands-on experience in luxury hospitality has honed her ability to deliver exceptional guest experiences while ensuring operational excellence and profitability.
With a global perspective, Judith provides strategic guidance to spa businesses seeking to elevate their offerings and adapt to evolving market trends. Her insights help resorts optimize operations, enhance client satisfaction, and implement innovative wellness concepts that set them apart in a competitive industry.
