Whilst the format, presentations and key-note speakers are yet to be confirmed, the event, entitled ‘The Modern Spa Concept’, is being hailed as a meeting of minds, rather than the usual conference concept. “We feel this better describes what we hope for the ISPA European meeting in Sweden,” says ISPA Europe President and Conference Chair, Carina Billetun.

Situated to the east of Stockholm lies the Swedish archipelago, the gateway to the Baltic. Overlooking the start of this spectacular string of islands is The Hasseludden Conference Hotel and Yasuragi, the location for the ISPA European Congress 2003, from 29 May to 1 June 2003.

In hosting this essential industry event, which will shape the spa market for the year ahead, The Hasseludden Conference Hotel and Yasuragi (meaning tranquility in Japanese) also plan to provide a place of peace and harmony for visiting spa professionals.
Set in a spectacular location overlooking the archipelago, 20 minutes from Stockholm city centre, spa experiences here include the traditional Japanese Bathing Ritual, an Olympic-sized swimming pool surrounded by cold, walk-in pools, and several external, shallow hot-pools, where delegates can lie, immersed in hot water and breathe in the refreshing pine-laden air.

In order to truly embrace Swedish spa life, the pre-conference activities for the ISPA delegates, from 24-28 May 2003, under consideration are; Golf on the nearby 18-hole Fagelbro Championship Golf Course; cycling in the Tjejtrampet - the world’s biggest bicycle race for women; and sailing in the archipelago - either cruising as a passenger through this spectacular area, or learning to handle one of eight boats, with an experienced skipper, culminating in a yacht race.

“In Sweden today, conferences and spas go hand-in-hand. Conferencing is a very competitive market throughout Scandinavia and spas provide a draw for conference bookings.”