The compilers of the first Mobil Travel Guide to US spas have said that they hope to see facilities striving for five-star status in 2005.

Mobil, which has been publishing consumer travel guides to the United States since 1958, this year unveiled its first foray into the spa industry, America’s Best Hotel and Resort Spas. However, not one of the 225 hotel and resorts spas visited and the top 48 that feature in the guide, made the top five-star grade.

“To achieve Mobil five-star status, a spa must provide consistently superlative service in an exceptional, distinctive luxury environment with extensive amenities,” said Shane Flaherty, vice president of business planning for Mobil Travel Guides.

“Staff must deliver extraordinary service above and beyond the traditional experience, and there should be an extensive array of treatments on offer, often incorporating international themes and s products.

“Overall we were a bit surprised that there was not one hotel or resort spa that achieved the Mobil five-star status,’ he added. “We look forward to finding one in 2005.”

Shane Flaherty was speaking to Spa Business. To subscribe, call +44 (0)1462 471913 or visit www.leisuresubs.com