No one know exactly where the word spa comes from, but there are two main theories. One is that Spa is an acronym for the Latin phrase, “Salus Per Aquae,” or “health through water.” Others believe the origin of the word “spa” comes from the Belgian town of Spa, where the hot mineral springs were discovered by the ancient Romans and used by their soldiers to treat the aching muscles and wounds from battle. As the Roman Empire grew, so did the number of public baths. By the year 300 A.D, there were over 900 baths throughout the empire. The oldest Roman spa still in existence today is located in Merano, Italy, giving evidence that the Romans used natural springs in an organized manner to provide treatments.

Modern spas have their roots in ancient towns famed for the healing powers of their mineral waters and hot springs. Travellers would come to “take the waters” and restore their health. In the 19th century, Europe’s great spas were destinations for the wealthy, and water treatments are still considered the heart of the spa experience in Europe. Traditionally, Europeans have viewed spas as a venue for the treatment of present illnesses and the prevention of future ailments, and also placed special emphasis on the importance of spas in helping visitors relax by combating the stresses of everyday life.

In America the oldest spring used by the Mohawks is known as the Saratoga Hot Springs, meaning “the place of the medicine waters of the great spirit” in the native dialect. And in18th Century it was one of the first commercial spas in the New World.

Traditional American spas have maintained their focus on wellness, attracting individuals who are already healthy, but offering programs of nutrition, exercise, and beauty. Today massages and facials are by far the most popular spa treatments in America, but more recently, these spas have begun to adopt numerous new programs in areas such as meditation and spiritual communication.

In Thailand the American and European spa techniques have successfully been blended together to giveclients “the best of both worlds,” with unparalleled value for money. The “Nantra de Boutique,” Spa (038.414.696), is a good example, with branches in Bangkok, Phuket and Chiangmai; see www.pattayaopasis.com