Spas in France, Considering a Spa Career in France: What You Should Know
By ISM on Aug 15, 2008 in Featured, Spa Management
Europe currently has 38% of the world’s spas, making Europe the number one spa destination. As a new or soon-to-be graduate of a spa management program, this makes Europe and France in particular, a great place to consider beginning your spa career. Here are a few hints and tips to make your spa career search easier.
Why France?
France has several qualities which make it a great place for launching a spa career. The country offers a range of spa types; day spas, large hotel run spa chains, small health oriented spas which cater exclusively to women, spas along the coast which offer a number of thermal water therapies and seaweed treatments. These varying spa types offer someone considering a spa career in France the opportunity to find employment in a spa which suits their management style and treatment philosophy. Keep in mind, that spas in France, like most of their European counterparts focus more on the health and wellness aspect of spa treatments. The health aspects of spas are a big deal in France, so big, in fact, that each French citizen can have up to three weeks of curative spa treatments prescribed by their physician and covered by the government.
How to start a spa career in France
There are several ways you can approach job hunting in France. Try searching internet job boards. The Institute of Spa Management offers a job search service for students and alumni at www.spacollege.org. Several other websites associated with the spa industry have international job listings. Websites to try are: www.spasworldwide.com, www.experienceispa.com , and www.espa.com. To make the most of your internet job search ensure your resume is up-to-date and that it highlights all of your relevant spa education and experience. Be sure to include that you are willing to relocate.
If the job boards don’t work out, try getting on locally with a major international hotel chain. Both the Hilton and the Westin hotel chains have luxurious spas attached to their hotel properties in France. Westin, in particular, hires for spa directors and assistant spa managers. Look on their website under the category of “Spa, Health Club, and Recreation” for current job openings.
Qualifications
Spas in France want and need experienced and educated employees. If you are truly considering a spa career in France, ensure you have completed an appropriate spa management training course or have significant experience in the industry. It would also be helpful if you were well versed on some of the popular treatments in France such as Thallosotherapy and Vinotherapy. Vinotherapy is an indigenous French treatment created from the wine grapes produced in the country. This therapy uses the seeds, skin and oil from grapes for baths and exfoliation. Spas are big business in France. Make sure you are well educated and prepared.
Legalities
If you are interested in working in spas in France, you need to obtain a residency permit as well as a work permit. Temporary permits allow you to work, but to work permanently, you have to have been employed in the country for three years, have tax statements to prove your work, and have current employment in the country. Check with the French Consulate nearest you to gain up-to-date information on the various permits and Visas required to work.
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