The European Spa Concept

Spas have been popular in Europe for centuries. They were usually founded around natural mineral and thermal springs; the waters were used both for drinking cures and for bathing and topical applications. It was discovered early on that natural mineral waters had beneficial health properties, and their use (as well as the use of mineral mud, peat, mineral salts, and related products) continues to this day, in medicine as well as cosmetics and body care.

A bit of history
Unlike American spas, European spas developed to primarily serve those who came here to improve their health. Recreation was, of course, part and parcel of the cure, but the main emphasis was placed upon addressing a specific medical condition, be it allergies, asthma and pulmonary complaints, rheumatism, all sorts of metabolic and gastrointestinal issues including obesity, joint and muscle complaints, as well as neuroses and psychosomatic disorders. A typical spa stay could extend over many weeks, and would involve a regimen of treatments (such as daily massages and baths), exercise (especially walking; most European spas are located in scenic natural spots, and specially designed walking paths made it easy and enjoyable for visitors to take their daily "constitutional"), as well as a light, healthy diet. All of this was complemented by a variety of amusements such as scenic carriage rides, outdoor concerts on the promenade, gambling, and all kinds of soirées and balls. The lavish architecture of many Czech spas (restored now to its original 19th Century splendor) is an eloquent testament to the comfortable lifestyle enjoyed by their clientele.

The present day
Over the past few decades, many European spas including those featured here have begun offering also stays focusing on wellness and recreation. Nowadays, many people come to the spas not for a "cure" but to relax, increase their energy level, and get away from the grind of their daily life. A spa stay is also a great opportunity to start a healthier lifestyle, spend time with your own thoughts, or reconnect with your partner in a stress-free, beautiful and pleasant environment. A stay of no less than a week is recommended; however, weekend packages are also available in some of the spas.

What is involved?
A typical weeklong spa stay would include an entry examination by a spa physician, who will then recommend a regimen of daily treatments specifically tailored to your needs. This is not only to address any existing medical problems but also to make sure that the treatments taken don't present an unduly strain on your body — e.g., people with high blood pressure shouldn't take long hot baths, etc. You can skip this step if you opt for a hotel stay and take your treatments independently, but the range of treatment options available to you will be somewhat limited; this is, however, perfect if you want just a little pampering and don't wish to go through a full spa program. Full board or half board is typically part of the package, but you can opt to dine on your own if you prefer.

The treatments might include:

• Baths (effervescent bath, carbonated bath, sulphuric bath, Jacuzzi bath, steam bath, hot air bath, or aromatherapy bath)
• Massages (classic deep-tissue massage, reflexive massage, lymphatic massage, underwater massage)
• Packs and mud treatments (peat and mud packs, mud baths, peloid packs, paraffin packs)
• Drinking cure
• Inhalation treatments (oxygen, enriched steam, aromatherapy); as well as a range of other specialized treatments (electrotherapy, magneto therapy, injections, exercise — such as swimming, poolside gymnastics, or yoga)