Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (March 17, 2025) – The Spas at Meliá Hotels & Resorts and Paradisus by Meliá in Punta Cana have been recognized by the International SPA Association (ISPA) with the 2025 ISPA Innovate Award in the Innovative Philanthropic Partnerships category. The award, presented at the 2025 ISPA Conference, honors outstanding philanthropic initiatives, spa innovations, and operational improvements and remodels or renovations over the past year while also highlighting breakthrough achievements of ISPA resource partner members.
The spas at Meliá Hotels & Resorts and Paradisus by Meliá in Punta Cana and Mexico are at the forefront of luxury wellness, blending traditional and modern healing therapies with cutting-edge technology. Each spa offers a distinct, transformative experience:
- YHI Spa – An adults-only sanctuary in the heart of the Caribbean featuring a collection of personalized treatments and rituals to recharge and start anew.
- MAIA Spa – A serene retreat offering outdoor pools, a sauna, and relaxation treatments focused on deep rejuvenation.
- AUA Spa – The newest addition, featuring an impressive selection of face and body treatments, a steam room, and wellness therapies tailored for active guests to heal and purify the body.
Arabelle del Pilar Rosario, Spa & Wellness Director for Meliá Hotels International properties in the Dominican Republic, will accept the Innovative Award at the 2025 ISPA Conference in recognition of Meliá’s wellness initiative for employees diagnosed with cancer. Developed in collaboration with Meliá Human Resources team, this program provides a personalized wellness plan incorporating spa therapies, massages, facials, yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises to support recovery and resilience, serving as a holistic complement to medical treatment.
“This award is an incredible honor and a testament to Meliá Hotels International’s commitment to social impact and well-being,” said Arabelle del Pilar Rosario. “We remain dedicated to enhancing our spas with innovation, advanced technology, and new services that provide exceptional wellness experiences for all guests.”
Meliá’s properties in the Dominican Republic and Mexico are certified by Wellness for Cancer, an initiative at the forefront of wellness trends seeking to bridge the gap between the spa and the medical community. Through specialized training, Meliá’s spa professionals are equipped to provide safe, tailored treatments for individuals affected by cancer. Developed in collaboration with oncologists, wellness specialists, spa staff, and therapists, this program ensures that cancer patients receive thoughtful, tailored services that support their well-being.
“We are thrilled to honor the recipients of the 2024 ISPA Innovate Awards,” said ISPA President, Lynne McNees. “These awards recognize the respected spas and exceptional products developed by our resource partners that are shaping the future of the spa industry, setting new standards in innovation and excellence, and providing our members with transformative initiatives and tools to exceed.”
To learn more about Meliá Hotels & Resorts and Paradisus by Meliá, please visit melia.com/en.
