European Tradition of Med Spas
September 19th, 2011
European Tradition of Med Spas: a Series Introduction
There is a long history of participation in wellness retreats and spas in Europe. Especially prominent are centers offering thermal baths, hydro-therapy and skin treatments. While hiking in the Alps this summer, my wife, Lindsay and I decided to investigate some of these historical practices and explore what new trends might be developing. Located within the Rhone-Alpes region, there are over a dozen stations thermales or thermal spas, most developed around the 17th Century. Early on, the spa towns attracted the wealthy and later, they were followed by patients afflicted with a wide variety of ailments. Today the hybrid model of medical/wellness spas drives a thriving business.
This special series will take a look at the current trends in Europe and what influences we might expect in the US.
Next: Chamonix- Mont Blanc region
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