pilotonline.com – 

Cavalier Hotel SeaHill Spa guests will have a European-style sandbox to relax in.

The spa’s German-made quartz table “is essentially like a sandbox,” said spa director Kelly Lanza. Massage recipients lie on a heated table and the sand conforms to the body’s contours. There’s also a salt therapy room.

Lanza’s job is creating a spa experiences that will hopefully earn the hotel a five-star rating from Forbes Travel Guide.

 

She’s one of many professionals who are shaping The Cavalier’s approach to business, customer service and amenities ahead of the hotel’s anticipated reopening.

It is scheduled to reopen March 7 after a multi-year $80 million renovation project. The Cavalier first opened in 1927 and is now part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection.

Lanza will oversee a staff of about 20 at the historic Virginia Beach Oceanfront property.

“To be in a position where I get to open a place and do that, and get that Forbes five-star rating is just an incredible opportunity,” Lanza said. She moved to Virginia Beach from Boca Raton, Florida, to take the spa director position.

Lanza has 15 years of industry experience. She’s been an esthetician and massage therapist.

“One of the things I want to teach and instill in my team is really to look for those genuine moments to create experiences for the guest,” Lanza said. “I think everyone is really excited for the opportunity and really eager to learn as well. And I think that energy is infectious and we’re hoping to really capitalize on it.”

read more>