According to one definition, exoticism is “the allure of the unknown”. This word can also evoke negative reactions, as it projects fear of the unknown and sometimes even contains hints of inappropriateness. When using scholar Alden Jones’ definition of exoticism in art and literature as the representation of one culture for consumption by another, the perceived excitement is tempered and the beauty and mystery of another culture, particularly Asian arts and humanities, is truly revealed. The dichotomy between Eastern and Western culture is present in all areas of society, emphasizing the differences and diversity of all approaches to life and how best to live them. Westerners have adopted many practices from Eastern culture and have benefited greatly from this exchange, as evidenced and supported by medicine, especially meditation and acupuncture, to name a few.
Todd Hewitt is Head of Spas at Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts. Based in Hong Kong, Todd Hewitt oversees the spas of more than 100 luxury hotels worldwide and develops exciting new projects. The former Vice Chairman of the ISPA Board of Directors has been in the hospitality industry since the age of 14 when he worked for the family business in Canada. His global adventures can be followed on Instagram @spatodd.
Interview
What was your first cultural discovery when you moved to Hong Kong and how did you adapt?
When I first moved to Hong Kong, I was amazed at the great efficiency of the city’s systems. The subway (MTR) is an example of this efficiency with over 5 million passengers per day. Back home in North America, this would be pure chaos. And it’s all done with remarkable courtesy. So for me, it was easy to get used to. Follow the rules and procedures and everything will be fine.
Do you tend to take a didactic or teaching approach in your professional life?
That’s a great question that I had to think about first. When I don’t know someone and need to get things done immediately, I tend to give instructions with timelines, ask questions and then review the results. Once I know how each individual works, I tend to get more involved by giving general guidelines and then just letting people do what they want!
Shangri-La has become synonymous with an earthly paradise, so how do you ground yourself?
I ground myself through my daily exercise program (where my trainer kicks my butt and I make myself aware of what I can and can’t do now…..) and by publicly expressing gratitude to another person at least once a week.
Favorite spa treatment:
Hot shave with an 85-year-old woman in Tokyo. Her attention to detail is remarkable. She is the first person I go to when I travel there.
Fun fact about you:
When we were growing up, my sister and I really wanted ponies. We had a small farm and were told that we could ride the cows if we really wanted to. So that’s what we did. And our parents were so embarrassed that we eventually got our own ponies.
