Wrap up the year by pampering your body with spa experiences worth traveling the world for!
Did you know that the benefit from an hour of massage has been likened to seven to eight hours of good sleep? With spas being the fourth largest leisure industry in the USA, you’re not the only one going for a spa hoping to unwind. According to the Spa Industry Study the top reason people go to spas is to reduce stress.This treatment, which combats discomfort and heals the body, derives its name from a town in Belgium, Spa, which is well known for its mineral springs with special healing effects.
While a good massage is the main reason why most people make trips to the spa, it is regarded as one of the oldest health care services around. And here's a fun fact – unlike most countries, in Korea, only the blind or visually challenged can provide massages! You'd be hard-pressed to find a better way of “thanking” your body before wrapping up another year. These exotic, not-your-typical spas are definitely worth the holiday.
Beer Spa, Prague
You’ve every right to another pint at the Piny Lazne beer spa, which follows the Middle Age tradition in folk medicine of using beer baths and beer drinking to relax while purportedly improving skin health. Yes, you’ll be bathing in the natural extracts used in the brewing of beer while simultaneously enjoying free flows of the beverage. The experience begins with a bath in a beer barrel-shaped tub, which stimulates a sauna-like feeling. This is followed by a rest on a bed of wheat straw to fully absorb the vitamins and extracts from the beer bath. Then, off you go to the warm fireplace where you’ll enjoy Beer Spa-brewed beer and fresh beer bread to complete the indulgent experience. Prices start from USD117.58
Resorts World Genting, Malaysia
There's more to do in Genting than just gambling – especially so when there's an 18,200 square foot spa waiting for you almost next door. The chilly, hill resort is definitely a great way to treat yourself right after the winding drive up. And while this spa is famous for its Balinese and aromatherapy massages, their lomi-lomi massage is definitely worth trying. This Hawaiian massage style is designed to simulate the movement of waves and the Hula dance. Aside from the lomi-lomi massage, Resorts World Genting has nutritionists on call, as well as a nail and hair studio to help you leave the building looking picture-perfect. Prices start from USD49.29
Peninsula Hot Springs, Australia
From underground aquifer 637 metres below the surface, the natural thermal mineral water which flow into the pools and private baths of this Hot Springs centre contains calcium and lithium – elements essential to the human body. You’re in for a unique experience as the water changes temperature with the seasons, from hot to cold. Peninsula Hot Springs has two award winning spas; The Bath House, which offers more than 20 different bathing experiences, and the Spa Dreaming Centre, which focuses on tranquillity. If you run out of ideas for your next celebration or get-together, you can book the award-winning private outdoor pools or indoor baths in Australia’s first hot spring founded in 1997 – The inspiration for the project began after the Australian founder had his hot springs experience in Japan. Outdoor bathe packages are priced from USD68.34
Dhara Dhevi, Chiang Mai, Thailand
Localised Thai spas may be common in various countries, but why not go for the real deal through this opulent spa? Relax in the Dhara Dhevi, modelled after the 19th Century Mandalay Palace. Begin your experience with a cup of herb-infused tea and a foot massage before moving on to a 5,000-year-old Ayurvedic regime that originates from India. By working on the body’s energy lines with special oils, an immediate, deep sense of wellbeing and positive energy is generated. The Dhara Dhevi is also an artistic marvel to behold: embellished with ornate mouldings, animal sculptures and Buddhist motifs, it took over 3 years to achieve the desired, deluxe finish. Massages are priced from USD139.64
Fonteverde Thermal Pool, Italy
Admire the works of Tuscan artists from the era of the Romans to the Renaissance here as you take in the scenery of the Siena hills whilst soaking in naturally-heated waters free of chemical treatments. The microbiological purity of this spa is buoyed by the penetrating water source and continuity of its flow. Weight loss can be mentally, physically and emotionally challenging. The spa is also known for its diet that combines thermal therapies with the latest equipment to help those with weight loss on the mind. Fonteverde's dietary programs include an alkalising pH diet and detoxifying the body to fight against a number of phyisical concerns. Day spa prices start from USD42.37
St Regis Lhasa Resort, Tibet
A spa at the roof of the world is (one of) the places we would love to be when in Tibet. Enjoy a gold-tiled swimming pool at St. Regis that created to reflect the art and spirit of Tibet. Afterwards, pamper yourself with their Shambala Bowls and heated stones to harmonise your mind, while a nutmeg butter massage works at unknotting tension headaches and insomnia. For those who prefer a traditional, holistic treatment, Iridium spa honours the traditional Tibetan approach to wellness therapies. Spa-goers would first receive consultation, followed by two to three-hour rituals, then shorter rejuvenating and pampering treatments. For a more international massage, St Regis also offers a Deep Sleep treatment that combines a foot massage with Swedish head-to-toe massage, to balance the nervous system and ease an overactive mind. Packages start from USD248.28
Photo captions: Main, Beer Spa, Resort World Genting, Peninsula Hot Springs, Dhara Dhevi, Fonteverde Thermal Pool, St. Regis Lhasa Resort
