Hotel spas run the gamut from tiny salons to luxurious retreats, but few tap into the growing trend of medical tourism. With that in mind, Sofitel Philippine Plaza has thrown out its playbook and revamped it spa offerings, teaming with respected wellness experts to create Vietura, an on-site health and aesthetic institute.

“Manila is a tremendous destination for international travelers who want cost-effective aesthetic treatments,” said Goran Aleks, general manager, Sofitel Philippine Plaza. “They stay with us all the time. Watching them exit the hotel for (outside) wellness clinics sparked an idea: Why not take it to the next level, and develop a concept that goes beyond the quick fix to full-on behavior modification?”

The first aesthetic center of its kind in Asia, Vietura offers services ranging from weight management to anti-aging procedures. Staff consists of 12 registered nurses, a dietician and a lifestyle coach working under the direction of a medical doctor.

“Vietura is not your typical medical spa; it’s a lifestyle experience,” Aleks said. “It’s for the person who understands that the path to greater confidence isn’t dramatic change. It’s a long-term holistic approach that results in a more natural glow.”

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