Wednesday, December 2, 2009

2010 Trends and Forecast: Spa, Massage Therapy, Beauty and Wellness

2010 Trends: Spa, Massage Therapy, Beauty and Wellness




I will be blogging about Spa, Massage Therapy, Beauty and Wellness Trends for 2010. So before I give out what to watch out for in the future regarding these arenas I would like to clarify a few things before I delve into the trends in our industry. I would like to stress that forecasting trends is far from an exact Science because all trends are constantly evolving and as I am writing this blog, both trends listed below are one way or the other, already happening and they are evolving rapidly. I have also included some examples and tips to boost your spa, massage clinic and wellness center business using the trends below.

First and foremost, readers of this blog must make the important distinction between a fad and a trend. What then is the difference between the two? One major difference between a fad and a trend is the duration. The lifespan of a fad is short, fleeting, here today and gone tomorrow. A fad is a statement, a one-hit wonder, something eye-catching that comes and then goes just as quickly. Sandali lang wala na…. It enjoys a few months of unexpected popularity, but disappears just as quickly as it appears. It might be another new massage technique, a new spa offering, a new facial product in the market, etc. Fads create a lot of attention and press, and then they abruptly disappear because people haven't seen results or they find it too difficult to sustain.

But there is a tendency for a fad to become a trend and if it does it can remain popular for decades and might become a classic. A trend on the other hand, has roots and staying power. It strikes a deeper cord, they are self-sustaining but needs improvement over time and is connected to a larger change in society. It would totally be expected, then, to see the same trends appearing for multiple years in a trends survey. The day spa is one example of a fad becoming a trend which crossed over and have interwoven industries in beauty and wellness.

Some experts agree that the difference between a fad and a trend is the number of industries it affects. A fad often appears in a single industry and rarely crosses over into others. While a trend spans more than one industry and touches more than one market and generation. So if you went to a trade show and you are seeing a certain massage technique or facial product over in many booths, it’s already too late to catch the beginning of that trend.

Another difference between a fad and a trend is the overall industry acceptance. Investing in a fad item can be risky for companies known for setting trends. It can be very difficult to tell the difference between a fad and a trend before the product or service reaches the buying public. Smaller companies often have the flexibility necessary to promote a faddish item, while larger companies tend to wait until the initial smoke clears and a trend can be determined. This difference between a fad and a trend can be seen in the recent fad diet wars. Ano ba talaga ang effective regimen para magpapayat? When scientific evidence demonstrated a link between high carbohydrate intake and weight gain, nauuso yung mga fad diet plans. Although the move away from processed foods and carbohydrates soon became a trend, the individual diet plans involved all enjoyed a fleeting popularity. A similar difference between a fad and a trend also appeared in the fitness industry. An emphasis on core exercises and the reduction of abdominal fat became a trend, hindi na puwede yung malalaki ang bilbil therefore a number of faddish exercise devices appeared suddenly on television screens everywhere. Some of these exercise devices were shown to be ineffective or even dangerous for the user, while others became part of the trend towards better health and weight reduction.

One of the telling differences between a fad and a trend is the perception of overall quality. Fad products and items are rarely expected to endure, but trends tend to survive the decade in which they were created.

Example, a spa owner needs to be aware at all times of what is happening in the massage and spa industry. If you are not able to attend trade shows, a quick and easy way to keep up with the latest news is to go to your nearest competitor and take a look at the newest service offerings. Go to malls and check out what other spas are offering. Really examine what products are on the shelves and in the sales circulars. In this way you can take advantage of the trend research that has already been done by professional buyers. You have to study and learn from the brands that you admire and think of them as the mirrors to today’s more diverse, more networked and connected society at pagkatapos nun find ways to outdo them.

Find out what's new, and then continue monitoring to see what has staying power, and what is on the way out. It is important to keep checking, because the trends and even the classics may eventually evolve and change over time. For example: Look at how traditional Philippine hilot has evolved into wellness hilot. Take note of what are the differences between how it is being practiced in a modern spa versus a “hilot ng probinsiya” and then you can incorporate both. Then your clients will have the best of both worlds.

Distinguishing between trends and fads requires quantitative and qualitative research in addition to gut instinct. Telling the difference between a fad and a trend is a constant balancing act for entrepreneurs. Staying in touch with our clients and testing innovations before making large commitments are to succeed in catching a trend.


The massage industry is constantly exploring new movements and massage modalities while at the same time evolving and improving on massage equipment. Example, yung mga manufacturers and product suppliers ng massage tables and facial beds should avoid designs that are attractive but unsafe or that deliver bio-mechanically incorrect massage movements from both the practitioner and the client. Dapat yung design na pwede kahit anong height ng massage therapist at kahit anong massage modality. Kung meron na nun. Equipment needs to be built with proper biomechanics that encourage proper lower-back support and skeletal alignment.



Second, maraming products in the market especially facial products na mag cla-claim that you will be whiter, have clear complexion, etc. Some even claim that you will stop aging with little work on your part. Sad to say they are all false. Aging cannot be totally stopped because aging is really a part of life. You can at least minimize the effects of aging but you cannot stop it. Also, we have to consider that these products should continually be used. There is no such thing as a magical wand to change you into a beautiful flawless princess overnight. Kahit yung mga case na maiitim na pumuti- it did not happen overnight. Even Glutathione tablets need months to take into effect. Hindi pwede yung mag take ka ng Glutathione minsan lang and then you would expect na next week maputi ka na. It will take time. There is no quick, easy way to get whiter that will show results immediately. Kung pumuti ka man instantly mamaya maitim ka na naman pag hindi ka gumamit ng product na yun continuously. Ganun din sa exercise, there is no effective workout that are easy kung gusto mo talagang maging sexy it takes discipline in food intake and exercise. And by the way, not all exercise machines can deliver results.



I am not saying that these are the only trends to track in 2010. There are dozens of important trends worth applying and I am merely bringing you my selection as it affects us in the Philippines because the similarity between fads and trends is that both are driven by changing consumer preferences and desires.



Okay so after we have discussed at length ang fad and trend. Here now are the trends for 2010.



1. Correct! Connect!



Connections. Partnerships. Mergers. Convergence. Consumers in the spa, massage therapy and wellness will experience more and more local to local, local and international businesses coming to join and pair with each other to stay relevant in a diverse world of consumers. There will be more industries na mag me-merge with the spa, beauty and wellness industry. Including fitness, travel and tourism, medical and health, bilogy and environment, culture and experience etc. Which will produce a lot of diversities and collaboration from individuals, companies, etc.

Which brings us to a few sub-trends, where people, services and products are just thumbs and clicks away. Urban (City) population is growing at a phenomenal rate and according to the Global Report on Human Settlements, October 2009: Asia will host 63% of the global urban population or 3.3 billion people in 2050. So where does this leads us? What is the significance? More and more consumers will be sophisticated but will be willing to try-out more daring goods (thereby creating a need for bite size or should I say, appetizer size services in the spa) simplified spa menus, signature and unique experiences and services. This will also in effect have less cookie cutter services which will create less blandness in the relationship between spa enthusiasts and management. More and more services of these spas, massage clinics, beauty and wellness centers will offer their very own signature services, localized and exclusive spa and massage therapies and treatments that will keep clients coming back for more. Therefore your spa, massage clinic or wellness center should sell something special, something premium (in some cases), something desirable in just one (geographical) location. Just be sure that it’s worth the trip.



Since dadami ang tao within cities, online transparency with conversations happening online will be the latest and greatest. These consumers will be lusting for more and more information. Tracking and alerting people online. One example of which is Google latitude where you share your current location with your Google contacts via browser and mobile device. Mas maraming spas ang mag o-offer ng online and via mobile appointments. And if you have not yet used Google Earth then medyo huli ka na, but nevertheless you should try it out. It’s cool. Google Earth lets you fly anywhere on Earth to view satellite imagery, maps, terrain, 3D buildings from galaxies in outer space to the canyons of the ocean. You can explore rich geographical content, save your toured places, and share with others.



Gadgets (including mobile phones and i-pods, etc) will be used to digitalize everything including spa appointments and consumer reviews. More and more blogs will be created for consumer reviews. In short, with people sharing information online, everything we actually do, buy, listen to, attend, try and so on will make it easy for people to find groups and real-time content (as we speak ika nga). It will be a common thing to tap into a live stream of experiences from fellow consumers. Of course, as more people are contributing and reviewing, sa dami ng information available and accessible to all, online access and device convergence will allow more on-the-spot-reviews like Twitter, it has established itself as the real-time snap shot of what people are thinking, feeling and experiencing and reviewing word wide.

So, in 2010, expect numerous services to capitalize on this burgeoning ‘global brain', and its endless real-time reviews and verdicts.

But do not be fooled, human interaction will still play a big role in an era were online presence is a must. Mass mingling, bonding and mind-sharing will be a common thing. People will get out of their homes and use social media and online groups to spur meeting in flesh and blood. Why? Because people actually enjoy interacting with other warm bodies, and will do so forever. Online relationships and presence will not replace (still) direct human interaction. People are people who needs others to survive and that means getting a part of some offline community. Meetings will be even more impromptu, temporary meet-ups of strangers, people and crowds with similar interests, hobbies, political preferences, causes and grievances. Many of these (temporary) meet-ups will revolve around getting a project done, generating public attention or helping one another.

A breed of consumers and clients na ang hinahanap will be beauty prodoucts that does not only make them beautiful on the outside but on how they feel. So magiging IN yung beauty products na may psychological and well-being benefits that affects people's moods positively. So if you a beauty product povider make use of textures, temperatures or sounds that affect the mood, as well as innovations, such as makeup that “induces beauty sleep"  producing also a hybrid of beauty and spa products and services.

2. Giving and Sharing is the name of the game.

This is already big in 2009 but will even be bigger in 2010. Consumers will patronize more products and services that give back to the community not only as a good corporate citizen but in order to stay relevant in business a spa, massage clinic or wellness center should champion something. Consumers will be more drawn towards spa, massage clinics and wellness cnetr businesses who values fair trade, ecologically friendly, safe and sound products. Clients/consumers will buy what makes them feel good- good about the ingredients and good about what they are spending. This generosity will be taken to the next level, by initiatives that would make giving and donating painless like using our mobiles and donating online. Just to give you an idea, how you can start this, as a spa, massage clinic and wellness center owner, you can introduce and encourage consumers to volunteer to an organization you support and they can get 50-100% off of your rates. They can just present a letter from the organization they worked for given the number of hours and viola! they would get free services from you. Even Disneyland is already doing this to inspire volunteerism. Disneyland have worked with HandsOn Network to have their volunteer work verified and those who contribute their time will receive a voucher from Disney for a day’s admission to Walt Disney or Disneyland Theme park. You can raise money to donate to spas employees who have been devastated by typhoon Ondoy.



There are several ways to apply these consumer trends, and make some money from the innovations. Just ask yourself if they have the potential to (and if so, how):

1. Influence or shape your company's vision by re-aligning it with these trends.

2. Fads and trends become integrated into our lives very quickly, and our sales and service quotas will reflect this if we incorporate these items into our lines. So these trends should inspire you to come up with a new business concept, an entirely new venture or a new brand.

3. Add a new product, service or experience for a certain customer segment.

4. Speak the language of those consumers/ clients who already 'living' a trend.

Fads and trends are part of what keeps our industry and our world fun and interesting - And the bottom line is that our clients keep coming back for more!

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The first informational blog regarding spa, massage therapy, beauty and wellness with a focus on the Philippines. Eunice’s blog and updates are found in this link www.yunesa.blogspot.com



Some articles written by Eunice, which you can view, read, download and print for FREE. Just click on the links:



What term should really be used?

Client, Patient, Customer, At Iba Pa

Masseur, Massagist, Massage Therapist, At Iba Pa

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/03/client-patient-customer-at-iba-pa.html



Is the spa, massage therapy and wellness industry included in the Top Businesses to start in these times of global financial challenges? Find out in this article so you can adopt and perhaps change your business into profitable ones:

Top Businesses to Start in Uncertain Times/Sluggish Economy

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/top-businesses-to-start-in-uncertain.html


If you are an employer these are the things you should ask, or if you are a prospective applicant, job seeker or someone who interviews people, this article can help you answer and ask/probe questions:

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/suggested-interview-questions-and.html



Are you a smart boss, staff or employee? This article will give secrets on how to become a Smartest Spa, Massage Therapist/Practitioner.

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/smartest-spa-massage-therapist-ang.html



Do you want to know the right type of massage for you? Do you you want to know the common types of massage and how it is practiced? This article will give you the glimpse of massage therapies locally and abroad:

The Basics of Massage Therapy (Massage 101)

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/basics-of-massage-therapy-massage.html


Do you want to know how much capital you need to start your own spa, massage clinic or wellness center? Do you want to know what it is like being a spa owner? Do you want to be (really) prepared before you shell out money into putting up your own spa, massage clinic or wellness center? Do you want to know what steps you have to take before putting up your own business in this field?

How to Start, Begin or Open a Spa, Massage Clinic or Wellness Center

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/organizing-opening-starting-putting-up.html



Are you tired of putting up with sexually charged clients? Do you know how to handle sexual harassment in the spa and massage therapy setting? Then this article will definitely help you:

Preventing/ Avoiding Sexual Advances during a Spa or Massage  Session50 ways of Handling Client Advances

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/preventing-or-avoiding-sexual-advances.html




Do you want to know about Hilot, Dagdagay and other indigenous therapies of the Philippines? If yes, then read on!

A Wee-bit of Philippine Indigenous Therapies with a Focus on Hilot

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/wee-bit-of-philippine-indigenous.html




Rules and Regulations on How to Become a Licensed Massage Therapist in the Philippines through the help of the Department of Health, here is the new update:

How to Be a Licensed Massage Therapist in the Philippines

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/how-to-be-licensed-massage-therapist.html





Licensure, Accreditation, Certification and Assessment

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/licensure-certification-accreditation.html



On anti-aging and Physical Appearances

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/02/on-anti-aging-and-physical-appearances.html




How to renew a Massage Therapy License in the Philippines:

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/05/license-renewal-for-massage-therapy-in.html




If you want to be updated of spa, massage and wellness activities and events or be a part of a support group

What is Meetup all about?

http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/06/everybodys-meetup-dito-po-sa-atin.html






The most comprehensive resource and information guide on the list of training centers, magazines, publications, books and literatures both local and international are all available in the book, “The Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource Guide and Career Book”. The First Book on Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource Book and Career Guide

http://www.scribd.com/doc/6425282/About-the-Book-Spa-Massage-and-Wellness-Resource-Guide-and-Career-Book
(this has the most comprehensive list of training centers in the Philippines and abroad with tips from professionals and employment opportunities, legal laws and regulations, list of employment agencies, how to choose a trainer, and information that you need in order to succeed in this industry and before you shell out money for your tuition or training, there are a lot of ways you can grab a copy of this valuable information para hindi ka mag sayang ng time and money enrolling in trainings you do not even need. This book will give you the information to start right in the industry with secrets you should know and being able to find your rainbow in the wonderful world of massage, spa and wellness.

1. You can order it online via www.Amazon.com at 34.95$

2. You can order it via a Kindle device at $7.99

3. You can order an e-book copy through my blog at www.yunesa.blogspot.com at $19.95

4. You can also get a copy from National Bookstores nationwide at P799Pesos

5. For locals only, you can order it from me at local discounted rates with free delivery at 900Pesos (via LBC or FEDEX Air 21. Anywhere in the Philippines. Please allow 1-5 working days



If you are looking for a career opportunity, not just a job in the spa, massage therapy and wellness industry, this book is a must read.



Also, CD's included in the kit for spa management, practice and operations available:



The Spa and Wellness Business- Understanding the Basics (PowerPoint format)

Seven Deadly Mistakes to Avoid as a Spa Owner and Practitioner in the Spa Wellness Business (PowerPoint format)

Spa, Massage and Facial Therapies 101 (The Basics) (PowerPoint format)

Business Worksheets for Spa and Massage Business in the Philippines (Excel and Word format/program includes all the financial worksheets you need in computing for your operational cost, etc.)



This article is written by: Eunice Estipona a spa consultant, mentor, advisor, speaker and lecturer. One of her advocacies is to make healing and information regarding the field of spa, massage and wellness accessible and affordable to everyone. If you are serious about turning your business or practice around, making the right decisions, getting an unbiased opinion and knowing where to get help, for lectures and other concerns she can be contacted at yunesa@yahoo.com or +639184745685. To find out how she can help you take your business to the next level, visit her site at http://www.meetup.com/philippinemassagetherapy

These along with hundreds of resources found locally and abroad are contained in “The Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource and Career Book”, the first book of resource information to know more about the Spa, Massage and Wellness Industry in the Philippines and other countries including the United States, Australia and other Asian countries. You can view, read, download and print for FREE the book’s summary at this link http://www.scribd.com/doc/6425282/About-the-Book-Spa-Massage-and-Wellness-Resource-Guide-and-Career-Book



If you are a spa, massage therapy and wellness information seeker the resources contained in the book for you. This book is a collection of data and valuable information regarding the spa and massage industry in a global perspective with a focus on the Philippines. Her advocacy in writing the book is to make “unbiased” information regarding the field of spa, massage and wellness resources and career, accessible and affordable for everyone. If you are considering a career in the massage, spa and wellness industry, this book will prepare you and give you a glimpse of what it is like, the preparation you need to take: emotionally, intellectually and financially. In this book, you will learn more details in the spa and massage field and the possible paths you can take. You will also learn about local and international training programs offered and numerous employment possibilities. Giving you much needed information at your fingertips. You can order it from www.Amazon.com or for local Philippine residents, you can email and get in touch with Eunice at yunesa@yahoo.com.



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Helpful Link:

The Digital Millennium Copyright Act – Overview http://www.gseis.ucla.edu/iclp/dmca1.htm



Our TERMS OF REPRINT are fully enforcible under the terms of: The Digital Millennium Copyright Act

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============ ========= ========= ========= ========= =========
The content of this article is solely the property and opinion of its author, Eunice

To View my Latest TV/YouTube Guesting:

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

2010 Events on Spa, Massage, Beauty and Wellness

View my Latest TV Guesting on Youtube:



2010 Events on Spa, Massage Beauty and Wellness


This is a list of 2010 events related to spa, beauty and wellness locally (meaning in the Philippines) and abroad for informational purposes only. Although comprehensive, this is in no way complete and is posted in my blog for the convenience of those seeking information, conference participants and events, conference, trade show organizers who need to publish their upcoming events. Please email me if you need your event to be listed for FREE (yunesa@yahoo.com). Although great care is being taken to ensure the correctness of all entries, I cannot accept any liability that may arise from the presence, absence or incorrectness of any particular information on this blog. Always check with the meeting organizer or their website before making arrangements to participate in an event.



Spa & Resort Expo & Conference/Medical Spa

February 20, 2010 - February 21, 2010

Los Angeles Convention Center

Los Angeles, CA

http://www.spaandresortexpo.com/



Professional Beauty

March 07, 2010 - March 09, 2010

London, ENGLAND

http://www.professionalbeauty.co.uk/



International Esthetics, Cosmetics, & Spa Conference-New York

March 07, 2010 - March 09, 2010

Jacob Javits Convention Center

New York, NY

http://www.iecsc.com/ny/



Natural Products Expo West

Natural is Now twenty10

March 11-14, 2010

Anaheim Convention Center

Anaheim, CA, USA

http://www.expowest.com/ew10/public/enter.aspx
Registration is FREE before February 5, 2010 for all qualified buyers, distributors and brokers.



Day Spa Expo and Business Forum

March 13-15, 2010

Las Vegas Convention Center

http://www.dayspaexpo.com/



Face, Body Spa and Healthy Aging Conference and Expo Midwest

March 27, 2010 - March 29, 2010

McCormick Place West

Chicago, IL

http://www.faceandbody.com/



The International Congress of Esthetics and Spa

April 10, 2010 - March 12, 2010

Miami Beach Convention Center

Miami, FL

http://www.lneonline.com/



Esthetique International Spa-VANCOUVER

April 18, 2010 - April 19, 2010

Canada Place on the Waterfront

Vancouver, CANADA

http://www.spa-show.com/frameset-ag.html




4th Annual Global Spa Summit

May 16, 2010 - May 19, 2010

Istanbul, Turkey

http://www.globalspasummit.org/




Beauty World Japan 2010

May 17, 2010 - May 19, 2010

Tokyo Big Sight

Tokyo, Japan

http://www.beautyworldjapan.com/en/east/profile.html




Exhibit at the China Beauty Expo

May 21-29, 2010

New International Expo Center

Shanghai, China

http://www.chinabeautyexpo.com/



World Massage Festival & Massage Therapy Hall of Fame

June 17, 2010 - June 21, 2010

Berea College

Berea, KY

http://www.worldmassagefestival.com/2010/index.html




Nutracon Asia: Call for Papers

August 26-27, 2010

Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Center

Hong Kong, China

http://www.naturalproductsasia.com/index.phpoption=com_content&task=view&id=122&Itemid=112



The 8th Natural Product Expo Asia

August 26-28, 2010

Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Center

Hong Kong, China

http://www.naturalproductsasia.com/





The International Congress of Esthetics and Spa

September 26, 2010 - September 27, 2010

Long Beach Convention Center

Long Beach, CA

http://www.lneonline.com/




Ageless Festival 10-10-10

October 10, 2010

Singapore, China

http://www.agelessfestival.com/

Wellness Summit 2010 will be held over three days and shall be a part of Ageless festival a weeklong event in Singapore. October 10, 2010



International SPA Association (ISPA) Conference & Expo

November 15, 2010 - November 18, 2010

Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center on the Potomac

National Harbor, MD

http://www.experienceispa.com/



Philippine Events



Manila Overseas Career and Livelihood Fair

January 15, 2010

Tutuban Mall exhibit





Eco-Products

World Trade Center Metro Manila

Pasay, , Philippines

Tel: +63 (2) 551 5151

Fax: +63 (2) 551 5243





International Tourism and Trade Expo

May 15, 2010

SM Megamall

Mandaluyong





Food Franchising

Sept. 15, 2010

World Trade Center Metro Manila

Pasay, , Philippines

Tel: +63 (2) 551 5151

Fax: +63 (2) 551 5243



Food and Drinks Asia

Sept. 15, 2010

World Trade Center Metro Manila

Pasay, , Philippines

Tel: +63 (2) 551 5151

Fax: +63 (2) 551 5243



Health, Beauty, Fitness and Lifestyle Asia 2010

Sept. 15, 2010

World Trade Center Metro Manila

Pasay, , Philippines

Tel: +63 (2) 551 5151

Fax: +63 (2) 551 5243





Health World Expo

October 15, 2010

SMX Convention Center

Seashell Drive, Mall of Asia Complex Pasay City, Metro 1300

Manila, , Philippines

Tel: (632) 5568888

Fax: (632) 5562970





Health World Expo

October 15, 2010

SMX Convention Center

Seashell Drive, Mall of Asia Complex Pasay City, Metro 1300

Manila, , Philippines

Tel: (632) 5568888

Fax: (632) 5562970

Friday, November 13, 2009

American Idol, Lucy Torres Gomez, Massage World Record, World Travel and Tours and Malapacao (November 2009)


American Idol, Lucy Torres Gomez, Massage World Record, World Travel and Tours and Malapacao
(November News and Views Report 2009)


Today is the beginning of something new in this blog. I will be including in this blog, a monthly (and hopefully in the near future, bi-monthly) news and views report which will feature and discuss local (meaning Philippines) and international news, still within the boundaries of spa, massage therapy, beauty, well-being, health and wellness. Anything related with those issues, I will try to give you current (and as much as possible) events and the latest happenings in the industry. Some might be controversial and some trivial. Some needs our attention and some needs our action. I want some news and information that people can interact with. They may be used as a stepping stone towards more ideas, information, more resources and more learning. Hopefully with these news and views feature, we will be able to create a better place to live in.

Let us start with lighter news:


Who among you watches American Idol? I have watched it, TV several times and I am drawn to the fact that each judge has different personalities. And what does American Idol have to do with Spa, Massage, Beauty and Wellness? Well, one of the judges, Simon Cowell, also known as called Mr. Nasty because of how he comments harshly, putting down the contestants and with the few times that I have watched American Idol, I would say that on spotlight (and not in real life), he is “brutally blunt or should I say, brutally honest?” Simon would put down and criticize the contestants and their abilities. But of course, I do not believe that in real life he has that horrible personality. He also received booo’s from the audience even before he speaks. He recently bought his 22$ Million home in Beverly hills in May of 2009. And apparently his dressing Room on XFactor (UK’s largest talent search) has its own Massage area. According to his co-judge, Simon Cowell has spent £50,000 doing up his room and it’s like a palace with plasma TV’s, a massage room and a fridge full of the most expensive champagne money can buy. This 50-year-old music mogul also has a luxury bathroom stocked with beauty products (ehem…at mahilig din daw siya mag pa Botox), including eye wrinkle cream, shaving paste and razors. Validoso di ba? So what does this show us? That there is also a big market in the entertainment industry for professionals like us and for products and services in the field of spa, massage therapy, beauty and wellness. Especially anti-aging. That there is no need to be “madamot” (greedy) with information and resources and no need to fight over clients because there are a lot of them out there. That there is no need para magsiraan at magkaroon ng "hate" campaign and brigade because with that we also hurt ourselves in the process. That we should help each other in promotions because what goes around comes around. That indeed, the spa, beauty and wellness industry is a booming market ONLY if you know how to do the business and position yourself with dignity and respect for others. The industry has a lot to improve and we all have a lot to contribute let us not start by resentment (there is no exact Tagalog word, but it’s a combination of a feeling of “inggit” or envy with “pagtatampo” mild sulking or “hinanakit” indignation or ill will felt as a result of a real or imagined grievance).

If we are to conquer the world and be a salt of this earth we have to conquer the world with goodness and the God who sees your every good deed will ultimately reward you for it.
On to more cheerful news, I would like to show you a video on QTV11, where there is humor and advise in it. You can click on the link below or there is already a video uploaded for you, just right below this article, you can click on that instead.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q7Nl-Ij_zYo

Guinness Book and Massage
The largest simultaneous group massage has never been attempted before, so in October 2007, the world’s largest simultaneous group massage happened in Potter’s Field in London. They took part in a Guinness World Record attempt to be massaged for fifteen minutes by 154 professional massage practitioners.
Two adjudicators from Guinness World Records were on hand to certify the new world record. The adjudicators’ job was to check that all 154 people were properly seated and that the massage routine started and ended with the correct professional techniques. Ayan kinailangan pa nila na talagang i-professionalize ang pag practice ng massage. While last year in July of 2008, in Taipei Taiwan, they set a World Record by arranging for 1,008 people to have a foot massage simultaneously. While this year, on October 31, 2009 Massage magazine featured a massage therapist who broke the world record for single-handedly and continuously massaging for 68 hours. Geee…that is a feat to beat. The name of the massage therapist is (drums roll) Christina Brandon from Sarasota, Florida. Although these are events that awe the world, there have been a few comments from professionals in the industry saying that performing back to back massage sessions single-handedly is considered medical malpractice. Because as the therapist finishes each and every massage, her endurance decreases, her attention span to the client also diminishes. Since that is more than two days of performing massage, alertness and attentiveness to each individual client have been compromised. According to Steve, on Scottsdale Examiner Page “It is not possible to maintain the recommended and necessary level of attention to the individual client when the therapist has gone without sleep for 24, 48, or 60+ hours. Performing massage therapy while impaired may be a violation of Florida massage laws, since sa Florida nga ginawa itong record na ito, and certainly presents ethical questions. Certainly a doctor would never intentionally try to set a record for how many procedures he could perform without sleep as this would violate medical safety and ethical standards.” Sabi ni Steve Ibach na isang Massage Therapy examiner. My concern here is…is Guinness Record concerned with how is it performed and practiced like what they did in London? Or are they just shooting for numbers without the quality? Or kaya ba nating mag-organize ng ganitong event na pinakamaraming chair massage in the world? Hummm…… what do you think?

Good and Bad About the Philippines
Kamakailan lamang ay nag report ng kaniyang assessment ang isang foreign tourism expert sa Pilipinas, si Uwe Sturmann, at the World Economic Forum Travel and Tourism Competitiveness Report at Dusit Thani in Makati Manila. Competitiveness, in travel lingo means the ability to conquer markets. Ibig sabihin, you are first and foremost in your clientele’s minds when it comes to a certain niche. So how are we performing? His assessment includes the following:
1. The Philippines is a good but underutilized potential compared to its neighboring countries.
2. The Philippines can weather the economic crisis, IF our tourism sector is resilient and IF we focus on that niche market.
3. The competitiveness of the Philippine tourism sector is relatively weak, we only rank number 86 of 133 countries in the Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report 2009 of the World Economic Forum. Eh baka naman itanong niyo sa akin sino ang una sa ating mga Asian countries? I included Middle Eastern countries as they are still included in the Far East region.
Okay sa Asia, ang mga nangungana at nasa Top 10 eh (drum roll)
1. Singapore
2. Hong Kong
3. Japan
4. Korea
5. Malaysia
6. United Arab Emirates
7. Israel
8. Qatar
9. Thailand
10. China
Worldwide naman, the top ten countries in Travel and Tourism Competitiveness are:
1. Switzerland
2. Austria
3. Germany
4. France
5. Canada
6. Spain
7. Sweden
8. United States
9. Australia
10. Singapore

Our government officials already know that the Philippines can contend and capitalize on its strengths. Pero the problem is wala talaga tayong “niche” dahil lahat ng ginagawa natin ay ginagawa na rin ng ibang bansang malapit sa atin. It would be very challenging (este to be politically correct challenging na lang para mild lang pag difficult kasi parang medyo medyo mahirap at hard kung malayo pa talaga ang dapat takbuhin sa karera..I said challenging BUT not impossible) at papano? We have to get our acts together, hindi yung kanya-kanya or sila-sila. We have to market our strengths strongly using our locals- hummmmm…..dito talaga mahihirapan tayo. On side note, eh papano yun? Karamihan sa locals mas gustong mag abroad at magbakasyon sa Amerika (kung can afford) at Hong Kong naman kung medyo on tight budget. Eh ni hindi nga siguro natin alam kung saan o ni napuntahan ang Malapacao eh. Papano natin mai-pro-promote ang sarili nating bansa eh napaka Western ng culture natin sa ngayon? nagsipagtapos tayo sa mga banyagang unibersidad sa labas ng bansa? Paano natin mai-pro-promote ang isang bansang hindi tayo naniniwala sa mga kakayahan? Let us face it, we still have a lot of growing and understanding to do when it comes to our beloved country and we are starting just now to understand. It will take many years of cooperation and nurturing from different sectors including private sectors (not only government) and us and our citizenry as a whole. Opo lahat tayo kailangang magtulong tulong, kahit taxi driver, (for example) kasi tourists will not come if our taxi drivers are known to be traffic violators, overcharging foreign nationals just because they saw that you are white, at marami pang iba. Of course there are a lot of taxi cab drivers na hindi ganito pero marami pa ring ganito ang ginagawa. Ano ngayon ang mangyayari sa mga naka experience ng ganito? Word of mouth will spread like wild fire, that the Philippines is not safe to travel while on taxi cabs, that the Philippines is just not ready to take on the surge of tourism increase, etc. When I was in Hong Kong, even an increment of your change hindi nag e-expect ang taxi cab driver doon ng tip. They will give you the change like for example, your taxi cab bill was 140HK$ and ang binigay mo is 150HK$, ibabalik nila ang sukli without hesitation, not unless ikaw na mismo ang magsabi na keep it. They will really run by the meter. I do not think it’s about the money aspect eh, but the ability to abide by what the law or the meter said. Tingnan mo pang ilan sila sa top…pangalawa di ba?

I remember when we attended last year’s, 2008 Health and Wellness Tourism Summit, Susie Ellis, President of Spa Finder, made some recommendations to really boost the spa industry together with other related industries. Sorry, I already took the liberty of editing it as Yunesa’s enhanced version (hehehe):

1. The Philippines has to develop the industry alongside other allied industries like massage therapy, spa, nutrition, travel/tourism, environmental groups, healthcare and education through collaboration with different industry sectors (both public/government and private).

2. Encourage learning and education to produce professionals who knows about the industry and accept its diversity. Instead of going out of the country for travel, leisure, beauty and wellness trips try first (local) Philippine-based tours and patronize Filipino owned businesses and products.

3. If you are contemplating on a business, go into business that emphasizes what will take care of the body and our environment. Be socially responsible. Stop patronizing businesses that will only use your money to destroy your health and the environment. Do not just buy something because it’s cheap, buy from businesses that affect people positively. Promote indigenous experiences (example hilot, cooking local food, cave explorations with travel, tourism and education) alongside promote Philippine local products to attract clients and improve outcomes.

4. Invest in education of the citizenry to develop an abundance of skilled professionals and informed public.

5. The Philippines has to develop public relations and marketing campaigns, advertising and promotions which, communicate the Philippine’s tremendous strengths like: medical expertise, compassionate care, English speaking, etc.

6. Make travelling alongside with other tourism efforts more financially attractive to locals.

I remember an email sent to me a few years ago by a friend who is also an OFW and just last month, the same email was sent to me by an online friend who is an American residing in the Philippines. I will paste here below:


The difference between the poor countries and the rich ones is not the age of the country:

This can be shown by countries like India & Egypt , that are more than 2000 years old, but are poor.On the other hand, Canada , Australia & New Zealand , that 150 years ago were inexpressive, today are developed countries, and are rich.

The difference between poor & rich countries does not reside in the available natural resources.Japan has a limited territory, 80% mountainous, inadequate for agriculture & cattle raising, but it is the second world economy. The country is like an immense floating factory, importing raw materials from the whole world and exporting manufactured products.Another example is Switzerland, which does not plant cocoa but has the best chocolate in the world. In its little territory they raise animals and plant the soil during 4 months per year. Not enough, they produce dairy products of the best quality! It is a small country that transmits an image of security, order & labor, which made it the world's strongest, safest place.

Executives from rich countries who communicate with their counterparts in poor countries show that there is no significant intellectual difference.Race or skin color are also not important: immigrants labeled lazy in their countries of origin are the productive power in rich European countries.What is the difference then? The difference is the attitude of the people, framed along the years by the education & the culture & flawed tradition.

On analyzing the behavior of the people in rich & developed countries, we find that the great majority follow the following principles in their lives:
1. Ethics, as a basic principle.
2. Integrity.
3. Responsibility.
4. Respect to the laws & rules
5. Respect to the rights of other citizens.
6. Work loving.
7. Strive for savings & investment.
8. Will of super action.
9. Punctuality.
10. and of course...Discipline

In poor countries, only a minority follow these basic principles in their daily life.The Philippines is not poor because we lack natural resources or because nature was cruel to us. In fact, we are supposedly rich in natural resources.We are poor because we lack the correct attitude. We lack the will to comply with and teach these functional principles of rich & developed societies.

I deeply believe that there is a hero within us all and that there is still hope for our beloved country the Philippines. Only if we start acting now. Let us emulate the example of Filipinos like CNN Hero of the Year, Efren Penaflorida. Then a ripple of effct will take place.

So there we are...the cause and root and how we can all resolve the issues of poverty in our country. Let us all help in building and bridging the gap. It is good that we have heroes like Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao and our OFW's, but it is not solely under the shoulders of Manny Pacquiao to build our credibility as a nation. It is within us all.

Before I end this news-blog, speaking of Malapacao (still wondering where it is? I, too did not know about it until last 2007 when someone at the spa summit mentioned it) here is an email invite from Leann, the owner and manager of a Private Resort in Malapacao, Palawan. By the way she also accepts Metrobank and Banco de Oro deposits, email her for more information:

Dear Eunice, it’s Leeann again of Malapacao.

The sun is beautifully shining once again in paradise. The rains and destruction of October is just a memory in the many challenges of living in the Philippines.The outcome of my heart-pouring energies of 30 days ago was a great success.Of the 300+ wonderful souls my message reached (re: the devastating damage of Ondoy and its follow-up) over 15% of you responded.I managed to raise over US$3,000, which equating in Pesos, goes a long way.Yes it’s amazing isn’t it, how so many in the universe gave, even though times are challenging for all of us. My heart goes out to all of you wonderful people and as promised, I’m doubling whatever was your donation in value of stay here at the retreat.The majority of this went to my staff helping their families and friends recover.When I learned of the great work the Animal Rescue teams (organized by PAWS) were doing rescuing many stranded furry critters on rooftops in Manila, I sent US$300to help them too. Imagine no water or food for days on end. How sad if they had no chance.A few weeks after Ondoy a huge hillside in Taytay (just 1 hour away) came crashing down, in the middle of another heavy storm, burying the newly build hospital and everyone inside.There were no survivors, even though many were texting for hours after the incident, buried in the rubble.It’s an understatement to say “it’s been sooooo a challenging month” but there is no other words to say. Having used up all my resources, with many of my own staff living with me for ages (their own homes were full of family) I can finally come up for air and turn inwards to recover, balance myself and repair my wonderful retreat and get back on my own feet.These past few days have been so wonderful again, I’ve been on my sundeck, hands openwide to the heavens, sending messages to connect to all of you who really need my wonderful island.So here’s a way to help yourself get back on track while helping me do the same.I’m offering a Double Tara Promo from NOW to December 15th with afantastic 40% off all my programs. It’s a great opportunity for both of us. Tell your friends too and bring someone with you;you probably know several or many, who really need to find balance right now. Even if it’s just a RAW FOOD or juice program and not a full detox, do come.Check out these figures and book on a plane to come.For more info just email me.


Many, many, many thanks in advance for your kind help and support once again.

Leeann Leeann Cruz, ND.
director and founder
Malapacao Private Island Retreat
Malapacao IslandPalawan Philippines
Mobile: +639189095573http://www.malapacao.com/ <http://www.malapacao.com/> privateisland4@gmail.com <http://us.mc389.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=privateisland4@gmail.com> palawan.cecilia@gmail.com <http://us.mc389.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=palawan.cecilia@gmail.com> Skype:privateisland (arrange beforehand)


Thursday, November 5, 2009

Scams and Hoaxes and What To Do About It

A Warning On Scams And Hoaxes And What To Do About It

by Eunice Estipona

Okay I know that this does not have anything to do with spa, massage therapy and wellness but because this also affects our overall wellness, I will include this in the blog. I also think as someone who is in the forefront of information dissemination and as a blogger, we all have the right to discuss the other realities of life. Today I will blog about scams and hoaxes as recently it has affected me and one of my new staff. Please read below:


These are just examples of scams that you should be aware of:

I. Text and mobile phone scams with similar modus operandi like:

1. You have won like this or like that from the government or any private institution. But unfortunately hindi ka naman sumasali sa kahit na anong contests or raffle. Paano ka mananalo?

2. Someone posing as your kakilala (relatives, family member or friends) asking for load or money to be deposited to their account. This happened to one of my new staff who got a text message from this number 09204569906 and was posing as me (unfortunately, I was not available to be called at that time because my mobile number accepts only text/SMS messages because I was out of the country). Well, she was a new staff so she easily believed and sent a 100 peso load to the number. Kung 100 pesos nga lang pinag iinteresan pa nitong mga scammers how much more the big ones? Anyway, to make the story short, she sent the load and when I texted her back using my real mobile number, wala na. Napadala na niya yung load.

3. Someone who would like to meetup or see you (eye ball) posing as someone sent by your kakilala. Beware as this might be a hold-up. I remember, someone last year sent me several emails and text messages posing as Michael Roswell, a visiting American who wants to find a fiance (sorry, not interested) and is really very adamant in meeting me because he is a member of my online group at Meetup Philippines. Until finally after a lot of text messages and I did not reply nor did I give-in to meeting him. Another text message coming from another number (which I will not disclose) sent me a text message containing the following message “to all ladies beware of the anti-fraud international name Michael Roswell don't put load in his stupid phone. I take a paper on his bag and saw a list of number of victims. I am the one to meet him three times, do a Google search Daniel Brenar, his real name and I'm a secret agent of his ex wife, a Japanese in Japan email me for information. Then she gave out her email address. But then again, since I was never interested in meeting men online for courtship, I have never emailed the said texter. Putting a period in this scam by Micheal Roswell A.K.A. Daniel Brennar.

4. Someone posing as an OFW and wants to send some “padala” (gifts) or asking you to send money because they have a business to engage into and they would ask you to send money via Western Union or any remittance company.

5. Someone asking you to send or give money immediately because your friend, relative, boss or amo has been involved in an accident. Another person will pose as a courier for you to hand over the money to him/her.

6. Letters like this below:
From: shawn.davis006@gmail.com


Subject: MASSAGE CLASSES

To: undisclosed recipients

Date: Tuesday, December 14, 2010, 10:10 AM
Greetings
I am Mr Shawn Davis from the united kingdom,i want to make inquires for Massage training course(Massage therapy or body work) for 4 weeks in the months of March 7th 2011 to 3rd April for 5 adults (age-20&23)5 classes a week for 3 hrs,i hope the weather condition will be perfect and best for classes, what do you think? You are required to get back to me in details if you can accommodate us,meanwhile can you help me with the information below

1)Does your school operate full time to fit our schedule?

2)Are the instructors certified by any organization?

3)How many instructors are at each class?

4)What training kit do we need?

5)Do you accept credit card for payments (Visa,MasterCard)

6)Do you have accommodations,guest house or hotel close to your facility?...



I would love to hear from you in details and any information we ought to know before our classes,also enclose the total cost of your services,as soon as i hear from you i will proceed with prepayments for you to hold the dates and commence preparation for classes.i hope to hear from you soonest,thanks for your time.

Regards

Shawn Davis


That was a really good one.. I almost bought it except for one thing... If he were from the UK then he would know English grammer perfectly... Not only can he not write, but does not even address the letter to me and my name is at the top or even mention the Philippines as his location! For emails like this, do not even respond, but it would be a good scam letter to write about in a blog or an article like this one I am writing... Oh, you know he is after our personal information, address, bank, credit card account.. etc..


So, why are these text obviously a scam? How will you know that a text is a scam?

Number 1, the texter uses a “normal” 11 digit number. Legitimate SMS promos will always course through telecommunication companies’ short codes, 3- or 4-digit numbers provided by the carrier, not the usual mobile number format (example: 0918-123-4567).”

Secondly, the copy needs some work. Honestly, would you take a text message coming from “D’ Sec of Banko Sentral ng Pil” seriously? Ang galing naman mag short text messaging....

You never entered such a contest or promo. Think about it: how can you win something that you’ve never participated in?

Lack of claiming instructions. Valid announcements of winners will always feature detailed instructions on how to claim the prize, and not just simple instructions to call or claim your prize by sending money. Also when the message urges the recipient to claim his or her “prize” quickly. The Department of Trade and Industry said promos usually give the winner 60 days to claim the prize.

How to prevent and what to do with TEXT scams:
1. Kahit nakaka tempt, we should never give in to cash or monetary rewards offered by text scams. Do not give out any information and when they call you using the cell phone tanungin niyo ng mahusay. Sila ang tanungin niyo huwag ikaw. Sila ang tumawag at huwag ikaw. Do not waste your load. Let them run out of load. Do not text back and ignore their messages. If it's to god to be true then it probably is.
2. Do not give out personal information that can be exploited like your Full name, email address, mobile number, place and date of birth most especially your SSS number, credit card number, bank account details, etc. They are phishing for you to tell them of your financial information.
If you gave up your information already, contact your financial institution/ bank at once. You likely will have to close your account immediately. Here's what will happen when you give strangers your bank account information: They will take your money. Period. End of story. You get nothing, but you lose a lot.
3. Share your experience with our community through this blog.
4. Report it to any or all of the following:
ANTI-MONEY LAUNDERING COUNCIL SECRETARIAT
5/F, EDPC Building, Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas Complex, Manila
Tel: 302-3982 and 524-7011 local 2372

ANTI-FRAUD AND COMPUTER CRIMES DIVISION
National Bureau of Investigation, Taft Avenue, Manila
Tel: 523-8231 local 3455/3456
http://www.nbi.gov.ph/

CORPORATE AFFAIRS OFFICE
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas, BSP Complex, Mabini St. Manila
Tel: 523-4832 and 524-7011 local 2259
DEPARTMENT OF TRADE AND INDUSTRY
Hotline Tel. 7513330
http://www.dti.gov.ph/

DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION AND COMMUNICATION
The Columbia Tower, Ortigas Avenue, Barnagay Wack Wack
Mandaluyong City 1555
Trunkline 7277960-69
Public Assistance Center Hotline
7890
http://www.dotc.gov.ph/

II. Email SCAMS and hoaxes

In the form of:

1. In the form of employment opportunities, where you will have to send via email. All your credentials, your certificates including a copy of your passport, etc. After gathering all your documents, they will ask for a fee to process all your documents. Two years ago, my cousin has fallen prey to this and he sent $50 USD to a certain employment agency in New York only to find out that after more than six months, he was sent a cheque with a letter from some internet police authority and sent him back the 35$ because they said that they have been receiving reports that the organization that he sent the money to was a scam. Well, his case was a lucky one because at least he got his money back. But not so with most, where they get to send more and got nothing in return.

2. Email scams and hoaxes may also be in the form of an email message pretending to be from a financial institution or any big organization asking potential victims to call a number, and asks victims to key in their credit card or ATM number.

3. Beware of emails you receive because scammers will try to trick you by using phony e-mails, asking them to click to web sites that "spoofed" authentic web sites for banks and credit card companies, eBay and major retailers, even the IRS. Text message scams mostly appeared early this year.

4. Scams informing the recipient of winning big money in a lottery that he never joined like an email lottery “kuno”.

5. Scams from an anonymous individual or a political figure informing you to send money because they badly need it.

6. Email from any person who poses as family member of a deceased person requiring the need to transfer funds to your account..

7. Email from a sick person in bed wanting you to be the sole beneficiary of his/her will.

8. Work at Home email scams: Old scam, new format. You should immediately run from anyone who promises lots of money for little work that requires no experience. While there are companies that allow their employees to work from home, they require job skills and interviews, just like regular jobs. Work-at-home scams will ask you to purchase supplies and equipment from them to perform the "job." That's how they make their money. You will lose -- not make – money.

9. Forwarded money and donation scams through email. Example below:
Microsoft and Disney are both beta-testing an e-mail tracker and will send you money if you
forward this e-mail. The Gap is testing an e-mail tracker and will send you a gift certificate. The Red Cross is using its e-mail tracker and will donate money for some poor kid's operation or to raise funds for an orphan of Sept. 11.

Okay there are a lot of forms and disguises for these type of email scams and hoaxes and what shall we do about them? You might ask "what's the harm in forwarding an e-mail to my friends? And people on my email list?" The answer is that some of the latest hoaxes are intended to do more than just deceive you. There are some web pagea saying if it gets "a million hits" then some poor sick little girl's grandparents would donate money for her treatment. Think about it, if her grandparents had the money and their granddaughter was really sick, do you think they would wait for a web page to get a million hits? No, the only thing that is sick is the person who put that site up. Was it just a prank to get a million hits? Absolutely not. The page had a revenue generating ad banner on it. Everytime someone visited that page the guy made money, even more if the visitor clicked on the ad banner. The danger of a scam like this is that as people begin to catch on, they will be less trusting of legitimate sites that have an honest message. So they will likely NOT trust those legitimate sites.

10. That is not all folks, it gets even worse. Con artists on the net are finding better ways to make money off the gullibility of well meaning people. The latest scam is online petitions. You are presented with some legitimate sounding cause and told that when a million people sign the petition, it will be presented to some organization or perhaps an elected official. Note: some of these petitions are real, but lately there have been petitions popping-up on the web with a more sinister purpose... they are collecting e-mail addresses to sell to spammers, often porn sites. So while you think you are being a good Netizen (internet citizen) by sending all your friends to sign an important petition, in fact you are helping some low life make a buck while getting your unsuspecting friends signed-up for a ton of unwanted junk e-mail, much of it of an adult nature. And once you are on those lists you can't get off, responding with a "remove" message only informs them that they have a warm body at that e-mail address reading the spam, which increases the value of their list. A list of people who will actually open spam e-mail and respond to it is a valuable commodity which will be sold from spammer to spammer. The "fresher" the list is the more it's worth. Hence the fake "petition" pages.

11. Email claims to be from PayPal asking you to confirm your account data by clicking on the link. You will be taken to a spoof login page where your details will be captured by the phishers. PayPal never send users emails requesting details in this way. URL of spoof website disguised as "Click here to activate your account". Any email messages that may seem to come from a legitimate business source such as Ebay or Paypal, that asks you to “verify your account” and asks you for your password. Businesses do not ask you to verify your password, social security number or credit card information via email. Most often this is probably a phishing scam.

12. A Russian, Filipina, Asian or any women and men seeking online relationships. They will even talk to you online via webcam and will earn your trust but before they come to your country or meet you, they will ask for money and after that they got it from you, you will no longer contact you again. Beware of online “meat market”. There is nothing wrong with online relationships, but you should be more careful. Remember my story about Michael Roswell above?

13. The most common form of advance fee fraud is an e-mail message that claims that you have won a large sum of money, or that a person will pay you a large sum of money for little or no work on your part.

Advance fee fraud is also known as the Nigerian Letter or the 419 scam, because the scammer often claims to be from Nigeria and 419 is the Nigerian criminal code that this scam violates.
Here are a few examples of the most popular advance fee frauds:
A foreign government official would like your assistance in transferring funds and will pay you a hefty commission if you agree.

14. You stand to inherit millions of dollars from a relative you don't remember.

15. You've won a prize or a lottery (perhaps one from a foreign country) that you don't remember entering.



Warning signs and what to do with email and online scams and hoaxes:

1. Use spam filtering technology and keep unwanted emails out of your inbox by reporting them as spam.

2. Be suspicious of anything that shouts something like…“SEND THIS EMAIL TO EVERYONE YOU KNOW”.

3. Don't make investment decisions based on anonymous e-mail or text messages you receive.

4. Anything that promises to make you rich and then asks for your credit card. DO NOT give out your credit card or Social Security Number when asked for it in an email message.

5. Don't open attachments in unsolicited e-mails. Spams are usually sent as an image or as a PDF attachment.

6. Use an Internet service provider (ISP) or e-mail provider that has implemented Sender ID Framework, a technical solution to detect and block spoofed e-mail. All of the latest versions of Microsoft e-mail software support this technology.

7. If in doubt with the person, company or links, type in and Google the website. Do not click on the links asking you for personal information.

8. Legitimate people, e-mails and web sites provide ways to contact the author, writer or webmaster. At the bottom of this page you will find my e-mail address. I will stand behind what I publish on this blog or website and will make corrections if an error is pointed out. Scam artists on the other hand, hide their identities, they fear being tracked down. Just having an e-mail address doesn't guarantee the writer is honest, free e-mail addresses are easy to come by, but if you find a site that offers no hint of the author or way to contact him/her, then be very suspicious.

9. If an e-mail or web site claims to represent some large, well known institution, then how will you know if it is really from them? For example, if an e-mail claims to be on the behalf of the Philippine Overseas Employment Agency, does the return address reflect that? Most of the large institutions now have web sites and their own domain names. Likewise, if you see a web page that claims to speak on behalf of the POEA, is it hosted as part of POEA's web domain (in this case: http://www.poea.gov.ph/)? If instead it is hosted by a free service like Gmail, Yahoo, GeoCities or Xoom, or Hotmail, then watch out, because it probably isn't from who it claims to be.

10. Do not forward unnecessary emails, if the e-mail claims that it is being "tracked?" This is a sure sign of a hoax since e-mail can not be reliably tracked. Rather than helping some poor soul when you forward one of these message, you are in reality wasting precious Internet bandwidth, which in the long run COSTS all of us.

Have fun online and remember, before you forward that next chain letter, take a moment to see if it is true. Most are hoaxes and some are even hurtful. The Internet is a powerful tool for spreading information and whatever is good, but like any tool, it can cause damage if not used responsibly. So check before you forward, it only takes a few minutes.


I can't leave this email/blog post without talking about bad money relationships. Please hear me when I say that “there are some money that's not worth having” and it's not about the actual cash or monetary value, but it's about the person giving it to you and the means of getting it. If you think you have sold your soul by doing business with these people, then trust your guts and retreat. Business people are always trying to hook up with other business people, for the most part, this works in everyone's favor. Facilitating introductions, great meetings and networks. But all of these are not free. It might come as an utang na loob (gratitude) for which you have to pay back sooner or later. But it does not take long to identify whose referrals you want and whose you really cannot afford to have.

There are money relationships that you do not want to go near and will cost you in the end. Trust your instincts and your gut. A healthy respect for people blended with a bit (a bit lang ha?) of paranoia is probably a good recipe for staying safe, sound and secure.

Be safe and even if there are wolves among the sheeps, trust but be selective. Just because there are wolves out there, does not mean its not ever safe. Do not throw the baby out of the bath water or sink the ship because of the rats. Do your homework and ask for advise from trusted sources.


by Eunice Estipona

You can email me at yunesa@yahoo.com
www.meetup.com/philippinemassagetherapy
www.meetup.com/philippinespaandwellness
www.meetup.com/businessandentrepreneurs

View my latest TV guesting on Youtube:

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

Carica Mangosteen Super Blend and Noni Juice and Fruit Extract Consumer Review

Carica Mangosteen Super Blend
and
Noni Juice and Fruit Extract Review
By
Eunice


I don’t know about you but I have not been taking antibiotics for more than five years now simply because my tummy hurts also I found our that antibiotics in the long run produces a lot of side effects. So I might as well try herbal remedies. Since then, to my surprise, naging “hiyang” ako. Although the Department of Health promotes some herbal remedies (Sampung Halamang Gamot when Sen. Flavier was the DOH Secretary that time) and herbal concoctions through its office, The Philippine Institute of Traditional and Alternative Health Care hindi talaga openly na pinapayo ng mga doktor sa mga tao to take herbal medicines mainly due to lack of scientific research but we have heard of testimonials that speak otherwise. Merong mga tao na dependent na talaga sa drugs or should I say medicines. Hindi makatulog kung walang sleep enhancers, laging nag ta-take ng pain killers or pain relievers, konting sakit lang take agad ng gamot. Yung para bang ginagawa ng vitamin supplements ang mga gamot, masama rin pala yun dahil nagiging dependent na yung katawan natin sa gamot. Hindi rin maganda sa liver. Hindi natin na re-realize it just suppresses the symptoms. Anyway, hindi ako nandito to discuss which is right and wrong, it’s ultimately your choice but for me, Science should work hand in hand with nature. Para maka-save ng maraming buhay. I believe that the closer any product is to its natural state mas effective at mas maganda sa katawan.

Since then, I experimented, researched and taken some herbal remedies. Para alam ko mismo which works for me and which doesn’t. Because what might work for Juan might not work for me. Hindi naman ibig sabihin na pag hindi hiyang sa akin eh hindi na effective yun it just so happens na hindi lang talaga effective sa akin pero it might be effective sa iba. Of course, as an informed consumer I would do my own homework before taking anything kasi hindi naman porke herbal and natural eh maganda na sa atin depende pa rin yan sa reaksiyon ng katawan natin sa mga tina-take nating gamot. So for this blog review I will write about two herbal-based products of Carica Herbal Health products, a local manufacturer of herbal and natural food supplements. They have kiosks and branches nationwide from SM malls to Robinsons malls. They are also open for franchise as I know. This company was started by Mr. Ramon Tan, an herbalist and one person that I admire. I personally met him at their Buendia office last year but before that I have been taking Carica herbal products. Lagi rin siyang naririnig sa DZAS AM station morning talk sa segment nilang KKK. I am inspired by what he talks about together with the hosts of the program sometimes with Heidi Bernardo Sampang and Pastor Eric Maliuat kasi during the segment Mr. Ramon Tan is always promoting Philippine products and herbs directly sourced dito sa Pilipinas. Biro mo hindi naman kaila sa atin na we are really very very rich in agricultural products pero nag-i-import pa rin tayo ng maraming medicines? What an irony ano po? Noon naitanong ko nga sa aking spa supervisor that time bakit kailangan pa tayong mag import ng mga facial products and massage oils eh ang dami-dami namang raw materials dito sa atin? At ang sabi niya, to this effect, “eh kasi walang tayong advancement in science and technology to harness, develop and process our raw materials while ang ibang bansa meron”. Hummm….There could be some truth in it and I am not sure kung totoo yun or hindi but sad to say, a lot of the spa products especially yung high-end spa products are sourced outside of the Philippines. For high end products, marami diyan gawang France and US yung medyo low-end gawang China. When I say high-end it means yung mga mamahalin at yung low end naman yung medyo mura and presyo. Meron pa rin kasing mentality ang mga Pilipino na pag imported eh high quality, hindi po lahat. Hindi lahat ng imported eh high quality kaya nga nagkaroon tayo ng melamine scare, ng peanut butter scare, at pati H1N1 flu virus eh imported di ba kasi nga nag-originate sa Mexico nga yun eh ….It means marami sa mga tinatangkilik natin ang mga pinagmumulan ng sakit na puro imported di ba? Hindi natin tuloy alam kung anong mga pinaglalalagay nitong mga foreign manufacturers na ito sa mga kinakain natin at nilalagay sa katawan….lason na pala. Kaya minsan napapa-isip din tuloy ako kung dapat pa ba tayong mas tumangkilik ng imported o ng local?

Anyway, going back to my review, I have tried some of Carica Herbal products and there are only two that I would blog about here. Ito yung Mangosteen Superblend and yung Carica Noni Juice and Fruit Extract. Sa panlasa ko itong dalawang ito halos the same ang taste pero mas maasim (sour) ang Carica Noni Juice and Fruit Extract. I like naman yung Mangosteen Superblend at ang sabi ng father ko na na-try din itong Mangosteen Superblend eh lasang “basi” daw. Eh hindi pa rin ako nakaka-tikim ng “basi” kaya I do not have any comparison to make. Basi is fermented sugar cane branch extract made into local wine called “Basi”. I like the Mangosteen Superblend better kasi it’s more on the sweeter side. I researched din kasi ano ang effect ng Mangosteen and this fruit has shown to have high concentrations of anti-oxidants at very effective anti-aging fruit. Hehehe…ayan sabi ko na nga ba eh kailangan ko nito. Anyway, when I started taking it, I feel better in my tummy (kasi may gastritis ako) pero secret lang natin ha? Ang magaling daw talaga sa ulcer at gastritis eh yung santol bark na pinakuluan. Mapakla daw pero talagang mabisa sa ulcer. Maybe subukan ko rin ito…What did I feel after taking it for a week? Mas naging maganda ang pakiramdam ko sa stomach ko.

A 250 ml ng Mangosteen Superblend costs Php 440.00 Pesos (approximately $8.80). Based on the label, the Mangosteen Superblend contains 40% ng Mangosteen Puree, Noni juice na 30% at Carica juice na 30%. It should be taken 1 tablespoon before breakfast. Repeat if needed in mid-afternoon and before going to bed. Pero minsan bumili ako ng Mangosteen Superblend ang panlasa ko is, mas maasim siya kaysa sa Mangosteen Superblend na nabili ko nung una. Maybe yung Mangosteen hindi pa masyadong hinog sa pag manufacture ng batch na ito? Hindi ko lang alam kung papano ang quality control nila sa kanilang mga products.

Yung Carica Noni Juice and Fruit Extract na 120 ml is Php 165.00 Pesos (approximately $3.30). 50% daw is Noni juice, Grape juice is 30%, Berry extract is 15% at Pineapple juice 5%. Ahhh…kaya pala mas maasim ito. It should be taken 1-2 Tablespoons a day on an empty stomach.

Yung mga staff naman sa SM Fairview ng Carica pag tinatanong ko kung merong gamot para sa ganito or ganoong ailment parang hindi nila masyadong alam ang tinitinda nila hindi katulad sa Mercury Drug na pag tinatanong mo ang mga clerks dun or Pharmacists alam nila. Siguro dapat isama rin ng Carica ang training for their franchisees and their staff para mas effective sila in recommending their products. Kasi alam ko magaganda naman ang products nila eh kaya internal staff training will go a long long way. Buti pa nga si Mr. Ramon Tan pag tinext ko at nagtatanong ako kung anong maganda sa ganito or ganyang sakit sumasagot sa mga text ko yun nga lang hindi sila pareho ng ni-re-recommend ng staff ng Carica na nakausap ko. Para sana mas may uniformity dapat magkaroon sila ng exhaustive training for all their personnel and staff para iisa ang sagot. Anyway, that is on the operations and management side na eh. Kasi sa spa yun ang tinatawag nating spa ritual. May uniformity ang lahat ng ginagawa, nasa standard operating procedures or SOP naman yun eh.

Carica herbal products have herbal soaps (some of it, I tried na like the herbal white soaps) and Carica shampoo, Herbal dental care toothpaste which I all like naman. Cost is no more than 200 pesos (approximately $4.00). Although mabango rin ang Carica soaps mas mababango nga lang yung soaps ng Soap Opera and Lush! pero mas mura ng konti ang Carica soaps. I have a blog about Soaps, Bathing and Lush Soaps at this link http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/08/soap-opera-consumer-review.html

I bought both products sa Sonsea herbal shop ng Carica sa SM Fairview. This is where I normally buy any Carica products. Their marketing office is located at 2628 Dian st. corner Buendia in Makati City with telephone number 5218783 or 5235603. You can email them at caricaphil@yahoo.com and website at http://www.caricaworldwide.com.ph/

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Guidelines in the writing of this blog were observed, click on the link below to read about my guidelines for reviews/critic:
http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/07/consumer-and-spa-enthusiasts-review.html

The most comprehensive resource and information guide on the list of training centers, magazines, publications, books and literatures both local and international are all available in the book, “The Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource Guide and Career Book”. The First Book on Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource Book and Career Guidehttp://www.scribd.com/doc/6425282/About-the-Book-Spa-Massage-and-Wellness-Resource-Guide-and-Career-Book (this has the most comprehensive list of training centers in the Philippines and abroad with tips from professionals and employment opportunities, legal laws and regulations, list of employment agencies, how to choose a trainer, and information that you need in order to succeed in this industry and before you shell out money for your tuition or training, there are a lot of ways you can grab a copy of this valuable information para hindi ka mag sayang ng time and money enrolling in trainings you do not even need. This book will give you the information to start right in the industry with secrets you should know and being able to find your rainbow in the wonderful world of massage, spa and wellness.
1. You can order it online via http://www.amazon.com/ at 34.95$
2. You can order it via a Kindle device at $7.99
3. You can order an e-book copy through my blog at http://www.yunesa.blogspot.com/ at $19.95
4. You can also get a copy from National Bookstores nationwide at P799Pesos
5. For locals only, you can order it from me at local discounted rates with free delivery at 900Pesos (via LBC or FEDEX Air 21. Anywhere in the Philippines. Please allow 1-5 working days
If you are looking for a career opportunity, not just a job in the spa, massage therapy and wellness industry, this book is a must read.

This review was written by: Eunice Estipona a spa consultant, mentor, advisor, speaker and lecturer. One of her advocacies is to make healing and information regarding the field of spa, massage and wellness accessible and affordable to everyone. If you are serious about turning your business or practice around, making the right decisions, getting an unbiased opinion and knowing where to get help, for lectures and other concerns she can be contacted at yunesa@yahoo.com or +639184745685. To find out how she can help you take your business to the next level, visit her site at http://www.meetup.com/philippinemassagetherapy
These along with hundreds of resources found locally and abroad are contained in “The Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource and Career Book”, the first book of resource information to know more about the Spa, Massage and Wellness Industry in the Philippines and other countries including the United States, Australia and other Asian countries. You can view, read, download and print for FREE the book’s summary at this link http://www.scribd.com/doc/6425282/About-the-Book-Spa-Massage-and-Wellness-Resource-Guide-and-Career-Book

If you are a spa, massage therapy and wellness information seeker the resources contained in the book for you. This book is a collection of data and valuable information regarding the spa and massage industry in a global perspective with a focus on the Philippines. Her advocacy in writing the book is to make “unbiased” information regarding the field of spa, massage and wellness resources and career, accessible and affordable for everyone. If you are considering a career in the massage, spa and wellness industry, this book will prepare you and give you a glimpse of what it is like, the preparation you need to take: emotionally, intellectually and financially. In this book, you will learn more details in the spa and massage field and the possible paths you can take. You will also learn about local and international training programs offered and numerous employment possibilities. Giving you much needed information at your fingertips. You can order it from http://www.amazon.com/ or for local Philippine residents, you can email and get in touch with Eunice at yunesa@yahoo.com.

TERMS OF REPRINT

You can freely distribute a copy of this review provided, that you follow the terms of reprint. Be certain to read our TERMS OF REPRINT and honor our TERMS OF REPRINT when you use this review. Thank you.

Helpful Link: The Digital Millennium Copyright Act – Overview http://www.gseis.ucla.edu/iclp/dmca1.htm

Our TERMS OF REPRINT are fully enforcible under the terms of: The Digital Millennium Copyright Acthttp://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/z?c105:H.R.2281.ENR:*** Digital Reprint Rights **** If you publish this article in a website/forum/ blog, etc. You Must Set All URL's or Mailto Addresses in the body of the article AND in the Author's Resource Box as Hyperlinks (clickable links).* Links must remain in the form that we published them. Clean links should point to the Author's links without redirects having been inserted into the copy.* You are not allowed to Change or Delete any Words or Links in the review or Resource Box. Paragraph breaks must be retained with articles. You can change where the paragraph breaks fall, but you cannot eliminate all paragraph breaks as some have chosen to do.* Email Distribution of this review must be done through Opt-in Email Only. No Unsolicited Commercial Email.* You are allowed to format the layout of the review for proper display of the article in your website or in your ezine, so long as you can maintain the author's interests within the article.* You may not use sentences from this review as an input for any software that steals sentences from others in order to build an article with software. The copyright on this article applies to the "WHOLE" article.*** Author Notification ***we ask that you notify the author of publication of her work. Eunice can be reached at: http://us.mc391.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=judy%40judymurdoch.com*** Print Publication Reprint Rights ***If you desire to publish this review in a PRINT publication, you must contact the author directly for Print Permission at: mailto:http://us.mc391.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=judy%40judymurdoch.com============ ========= ========= ========= ========= ========= The content of this review is solely the property and opinion of its author, Eunice

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Thursday, August 20, 2009

Skin Perfect Facial Salon at SM Fairview

Skin Perfect Facial Salon and General Merchandise Consumer Review
By
yunesa@yahoo.com

I visited this branch of Skin Perfect Facial Salon at SM City Fairview Mall AX2 014 Quezon City last August 4, 2009. The reception area is clean and in order behind the counter area are the retail products on display. I am impressed with the interiors. As you enter the inside premises, the pathway is a bit similar to Mandara Spa at The Royal Orchid Sheraton in Bangkok but the illumination is brighter here. This is the smaller version or scale of this pathway with bamboo on the sides. Although the thin bamboo sticks placed on the glass walls were plastic, in a way, it fits the elegance of the wooden floor lined with stones on the sides, you will forget that outside this establishment is a busy mall. The music was very relaxing (really) fit for a spa. The walls, floor and general look of the place is very clean and tidy. Lighting has played also dramatic effects as it’s soft to the eyes but not too dark. The apparatus and machines in each room looks new, were in order and well-kept. The end portion of the facial beds, were covered with plastic which ensures that those who get on the facial bed will not stain the facial bed. This is very economical too and less time consuming when cleaning. I also noticed as I entered the room that there is a faint aromatic smell, I am not sure if it was because of the products they are using at the other room dispersing into the whole inside premises or it was due to room fragrance or room deodorizer. As I sat in the lounge area and let the facial therapist prepare the room, one staff started asking me about products that I use. But we were cut short when I was ushered into the inside room opened by a sliding door with two facial beds and as I walk past the other rooms I noticed that each room has two facial beds and one massage room. Each facial bed has large wall mounted mirror making the rooms look larger than it actually is and at the same time serve as the client’s personal mirror.

Since there was no price list in the reception area, I copied a few of the services that I am interested in trying: A deep cleansing facial which is regularly priced at 350 pesos (approximately $7.00) is now at a promotional rate of 199 pesos (approximately $4.00). Open pores with whitening although listed is not available but is priced at 850 pesos (approximately $16.00). When I scanned their prices, I can’t keep but wonder. With these low prices what types of products are they using and what about profit? Are they still making any profit with such low prices? And if they are, what about their staff? Are they being fairly compensated? Well for now, these are not the issues but some things I tend to think about when prices drop this low. I am not really fond of very cheap products and services (nor high priced but low value ones) but when I am patronizing any products and services, before I decide to patronize them for long-term, I will look into what they bring in value and monetary to the individuals making the business operate, especially the staff. Somehow, something or someone has to give in. I appreciate their comment sheet but I wasn’t given one so I have to take one and bring it home with me na lang because I am compiling also all my reviews. The facial therapist assigned to me was Rikka and I chose the Facial Mudd Sea Mask which is priced at 550 pesos (approximately $11.00). Unfortunately, they do not have a price list to be handed and given away to whomever. Only a list of their services (with no descriptions) was available at the counter.

When the time came up that Rikka initiated the facial massage, I noticed that she was wearing gloves. I know that this protects the facial therapist from infectious skin diseases but I really do not like the smell of rubber on my face. For me, it diminishes the sensation of being relaxed during the facial treatment. The product smells like a combination of pipino (cucumber) and melon but the nice smell of these products, were killed by the odor of the rubber worn by Rikka, the facial therapist. Then came the steaming time and then during the time of pricking, sa dibdib ko nilagay yung mga extractor and other materials for pricking (similar to the practice at Dermstrata). Which personally, I do not approve of…. At bakit naman? you might ask, because it will limit the client’s movements and will make the client conscious of how much dirt has already been removed. As much as possible, for me, a facial therapy should also be an indulgence where the client will feel being a queen taken cared of by a personal skin professional rather than making the client feel awkward. Next came the hot and cold towel application. The hot towel came not hot at all and the cold towel came very cold. Then came the mask or mud, which smells like mud of course but not smelly. It became crusty when dry but after a few minutes I have to request Rikka to take it off as I feel itchy (which was the first time I felt itchy after maybe hundreds of products that I have tried and tested na) and I was in a hurry. The only comment I have is that the facial masque was applied haphazardly. Walang consistent direction which should be going upwards.

One very big disadvantage of this branch and also other branches of Skin Perfect Facial Salon is that they do not have a toilet inside any of their branches. Yes, you heard me right, walang toilet dito. So when a client feels to go to the bathroom while their facial mask is on their face, the client will be forced to either leave the premises and go to the mall’s public toilet with their mask on (hehehe) and risk the embarrassing moment. Baka mapagkamalan ka pang multo sa mall. It’s up to you, but I will not walk around the mall with my face all painted up. Without a toilet inside, this will deter clients who want to have a massage, a facial and other services inside the establishment and spend time and money inside their establishment. Ako pa naman minsan pag pasok ko ng mall at 11am or 12 noon after a light brunch eh lumalabas na ako ng spa at 4pm kasi pagtapos ng facial may massage pa ako (or vice versa depending on what types of facial and massage) tapos may foot spa pa and paraffin pa so talagang whole day na ako halos sa spa. Kaya gutom na gutom ako pag labas eh. Unfortunately, because of the nonexistence of a private toilet for their staff and clients, like many other clients who wants to linger and spend money in one establishment, we will not be able to do that here. Excuse me for the term, pero kung lagi kang ihi ng ihi (especially sa mall dahil malamig) it’s not advisable for you to come here. According to Rikka, all of their branches do not have toilets because the owner does not want to maintain a toilet and the owner considers it dirty for the place daw. So if I will splurge myself in a spa-ing day I will not go here kasi I will not feel at home dahil walang toilet.

They have different branches in different malls like SM and Robinson’s and as far as Batangas and Cabanatuan City. They also have a dermatologist on call. And ohh, maybe next time I will try their massage. Sad to say, as I do my research online, they do not have a website or even an email. All that is available at the reception area is a small 1/4th sheet of glossy paper with a list of their branches. The flyer is not eye-friendly (should I say) as all the fonts are very small you can hardly read it because it’s not also printed in black ink but light colored small fonts of yellow green and red. The red font is visible though.

My overall experience is 82% but I have to commend them for very nice interiors. If I were to include interiors, I will rate them 87% for the interiors only. Hopefully, their services will follow suit!

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Guidelines in the writing of this blog were observed, click on the link below to read about my guidelines
http://yunesa.blogspot.com/2009/07/consumer-and-spa-enthusiasts-review.html

The most comprehensive resource and information guide on the list of training centers, magazines, publications, books and literatures both local and international are all available in the book, “The Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource Guide and Career Book”. The First Book on Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource Book and Career Guidehttp://www.scribd.com/doc/6425282/About-the-Book-Spa-Massage-and-Wellness-Resource-Guide-and-Career-Book (this has the most comprehensive list of training centers in the Philippines and abroad with tips from professionals and employment opportunities, legal laws and regulations, list of employment agencies, how to choose a trainer, and information that you need in order to succeed in this industry and before you shell out money for your tuition or training, there are a lot of ways you can grab a copy of this valuable information para hindi ka mag sayang ng time and money enrolling in trainings you do not even need. This book will give you the information to start right in the industry with secrets you should know and being able to find your rainbow in the wonderful world of massage, spa and wellness.
1. You can order it online via http://www.amazon.com/ at 34.95$
2. You can order it via a Kindle device at $7.99
3. You can order an e-book copy through my blog at http://www.yunesa.blogspot.com/ at $19.95
4. You can also get a copy from National Bookstores nationwide at P799Pesos
5. For locals only, you can order it from me at local discounted rates with free delivery at 900Pesos (via LBC or FEDEX Air 21. Anywhere in the Philippines. Please allow 1-5 working days
If you are looking for a career opportunity, not just a job in the spa, massage therapy and wellness industry, this book is a must read.

This review was written by: Eunice Estipona a spa consultant, mentor, advisor, speaker and lecturer. One of her advocacies is to make healing and information regarding the field of spa, massage and wellness accessible and affordable to everyone. If you are serious about turning your business or practice around, making the right decisions, getting an unbiased opinion and knowing where to get help, for lectures and other concerns she can be contacted at yunesa@yahoo.com or +639184745685. To find out how she can help you take your business to the next level, visit her site at http://www.meetup.com/philippinemassagetherapy
These along with hundreds of resources found locally and abroad are contained in “The Spa, Massage and Wellness Resource and Career Book”, the first book of resource information to know more about the Spa, Massage and Wellness Industry in the Philippines and other countries including the United States, Australia and other Asian countries. You can view, read, download and print for FREE the book’s summary at this link http://www.scribd.com/doc/6425282/About-the-Book-Spa-Massage-and-Wellness-Resource-Guide-and-Career-Book

If you are a spa, massage therapy and wellness information seeker the resources contained in the book for you. This book is a collection of data and valuable information regarding the spa and massage industry in a global perspective with a focus on the Philippines. Her advocacy in writing the book is to make “unbiased” information regarding the field of spa, massage and wellness resources and career, accessible and affordable for everyone. If you are considering a career in the massage, spa and wellness industry, this book will prepare you and give you a glimpse of what it is like, the preparation you need to take: emotionally, intellectually and financially. In this book, you will learn more details in the spa and massage field and the possible paths you can take. You will also learn about local and international training programs offered and numerous employment possibilities. Giving you much needed information at your fingertips. You can order it from http://www.amazon.com/ or for local Philippine residents, you can email and get in touch with Eunice at yunesa@yahoo.com.

TERMS OF REPRINT

You can freely distribute a copy of this review provided, that you follow the terms of reprint. Be certain to read our TERMS OF REPRINT and honor our TERMS OF REPRINT when you use this review. Thank you.

Helpful Link: The Digital Millennium Copyright Act – Overview http://www.gseis.ucla.edu/iclp/dmca1.htm

Our TERMS OF REPRINT are fully enforcible under the terms of: The Digital Millennium Copyright Acthttp://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/query/z?c105:H.R.2281.ENR:*** Digital Reprint Rights **** If you publish this article in a website/forum/ blog, etc. You Must Set All URL's or Mailto Addresses in the body of the article AND in the Author's Resource Box as Hyperlinks (clickable links).* Links must remain in the form that we published them. Clean links should point to the Author's links without redirects having been inserted into the copy.* You are not allowed to Change or Delete any Words or Links in the review or Resource Box. Paragraph breaks must be retained with articles. You can change where the paragraph breaks fall, but you cannot eliminate all paragraph breaks as some have chosen to do.* Email Distribution of this review must be done through Opt-in Email Only. No Unsolicited Commercial Email.* You are allowed to format the layout of the review for proper display of the article in your website or in your ezine, so long as you can maintain the author's interests within the article.* You may not use sentences from this review as an input for any software that steals sentences from others in order to build an article with software. The copyright on this article applies to the "WHOLE" article.*** Author Notification ***We ask that you notify the author of publication of her work. Eunice can be reached at: http://us.mc391.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=judy%40judymurdoch.com*** Print Publication Reprint Rights ***If you desire to publish this review in a PRINT publication, you must contact the author directly for Print Permission at: mailto:http://us.mc391.mail.yahoo.com/mc/compose?to=judy%40judymurdoch.com============ ========= ========= ========= ========= ========= The content of this review is solely the property and opinion of its author, Eunice

Vie my Latest TV Guesting on Youtube: