Pack your bags, leave stress behind, and embark on a journey towards your best self at the world’s best wellness retreats.

Mountain Trek Health Reset Retreat, British Columbia, Canada

The Mountain Trek Health Reset Retreat combines a strenuous boot camp, a relaxing wellness retreat, and a pampering spa oasis into an unforgettable vacation. Set in British Columbia’s lush forest wilderness, a key part of the week-long program involves hiking in the surrounding nature for three or more hours daily.

In addition to the heart-pumping cardio hikes, participants can go on mind-calming forest bathing walks to help relax and reset their minds. The fitness journey continues in the kitchen, as you’ll be served meals designed to sustain your energy level and improve gut health. 

The Mindful Journey, Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows, Arizona

Build your own wellness retreat at the Andaz Scottsdale Resort & Bungalows, one of the most luxurious resorts in Arizona. Guests participating in The Mindful Journey, a self-guided, three-day retreat, will customize their experience to suit their personal goals. Start by meeting with a spa concierge to design your itinerary, choosing from options focused on art, nature, fitness, or community. 

The package includes access to the on-site spa, a reserved spa cabana, an experience guide, and daily gifts (like a light therapy device and plush robe). 

The Ranch Hudson Valley, New York

The Ranch’s original location in Malibu, California, is famous for attracting celebrities seeking a healthier lifestyle. The fitness-focused resort is expanding to the East Coast in April 2024 with the opening of its Hudson Valley, New York location. 

Guests are encouraged to follow a 30-day pre-arrival program before their stay, which will help prepare them for the intensive itinerary at The Ranch. The active daily schedules involve morning hikes, a nap, afternoon strength classes, and restorative yoga, but there’s plenty of pampering, including a daily massage. 

The Ranch serves communal meals that are vegan, gluten-free, and without processed sugars or sweeteners to help you reset your diet to something more nourishing.

BodyHoliday, St. Lucia

Whether you want to get the whole family in on a wellness retreat or have your own solo vacation, there’s an option at BodyHoliday in St. Lucia. This all-inclusive resort has themed months, like September Solos or WellFit Tribes, with special activities, experiences, and celebrity guests.

No matter when you visit, your stay will include a daily one-hour therapeutic treatment, meditation, Tai Chi, and yoga classes, and all food and drink. 

Sleep Well Retreat, Carillon Miami Wellness Resort, Florida

If your New Year’s resolution is to sleep better, sign up for Carillon’s Sleep Well Retreat, designed to reset your circadian rhythm. The 4-night program includes accommodation in a one-bedroom apartment outfitted with a Bryte Balance Smart Bed (which uses advanced technology to maximize sleep quality), a 50-minute Pro Sleep Body Treatment, a copy of Sleep for Success! Everything You Must Know About Sleep But Are Too Tired to Ask, access to a meditation pod, and more.

ReNew Retreat, Hilton Head Health, South Carolina

A vacation is a great cure for stress, but the calm effects don’t always linger for long once you touch down back home. What if you could walk away from your next trip better equipped to handle everyday struggles? That’s the premise behind Hilton Head Health’s ReNew Retreat, a holistic wellness experience designed to help you manage stress and make self-care part of your everyday life. 

The retreat starts with a “life balance” assessment to set goals and design an itinerary for your stay. Fitness classes, a cooking demonstration, a custom massage, and healthy meals and snacks are also included in the program. 

All of the products featured in this story were hand-selected by our travel editors. Some of the links featured in this story are affiliate links, and SmarterTravel may collect a commission (at no cost to you) if you shop through them. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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When it comes to relaxation and rejuvenation, there’s nothing quite like a visit to a luxurious hotel spa. From soothing massages to invigorating facials, these spas offer a wide range of treatments to help you unwind and escape from the stresses of everyday life.

Editor’s Note: This article was partially generated using AI technology.

Aman Spa at Aman Tokyo

Aman Spa at Aman Tokyo is a renowned destination for spa vacations and is one of the top hotel spas in the world. It offers a unique combination of traditional Japanese treatments and modern amenities, making it a truly special experience. Guests can enjoy a variety of treatments in a tranquil atmosphere with stunning views of the Tokyo skyline. The spa is known for its exceptional service and attention to detail, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Six Senses Spa at Zighy Bay

Six Senses Spa at Zighy Bay is a luxurious and secluded spa retreat that offers an array of treatments in a natural cliff-top setting with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. It offers a unique blend of traditional and modern spa therapies and is known for its holistic approach to wellness, offering treatments such as yoga, meditation, and nature-based activities. The spa is also committed to sustainability, using natural ingredients and products that are both eco-friendly and locally sourced.

The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan

The Spa at Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan is a world-renowned spa retreat that offers an array of luxurious treatments in a stunning setting. This Balinese spa is located on a tranquil riverside, surrounded by lush jungles and sprawling nature. It is renowned for its luxurious facilities and personalized service and offers a range of traditional Balinese treatments such as massage, facials, and body wraps. The spa also features a state-of-the-art fitness center, a yoga studio, and a beauty salon.

The Peninsula Spa at The Peninsula Hong Kong

The Peninsula Spa at The Peninsula Hong Kong is an award-winning spa that offers a holistic approach to relaxation and rejuvenation. This opulent spa is located in the heart of Hong Kong and offers a range of treatments inspired by Traditional Chinese Medicine. The Peninsula Spa is known for its world-class therapists and state-of-the-art facilities, making it a popular choice for those looking for the ultimate spa vacation.

The Spa at The Chedi Andermatt

The Spa at The Chedi Andermatt offers a contemporary and simple spa experience aimed at giving guests the utmost relaxation and well-being. With breathtaking views of the Swiss Alps all around, visitors can indulge in a variety of treatments and therapies inspired by the Alpine region, specifically designed to bring balance and harmony to the body, mind, and soul. Whether it’s massages, body treatments, beauty regimens, or facial therapies, the spa provides a wide range of services and wellness programs to guarantee that every guest enjoys complete relaxation and well-being.

The Spa at The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto

The Spa at The Ritz-Carlton, Kyoto is a serene spa experience designed to provide guests with a retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Featuring a blend of traditional Japanese and Western spa therapies, the spa offers an array of treatments and therapies designed to restore balance and harmony to the mind, body, and spirit. Surrounded by a peaceful garden setting with views of the Kamogawa River, the spa is an oasis of tranquility and relaxation. From massages and body treatments to beauty treatments and facial therapies, the spa offers an array of treatments and wellness programs to ensure each guest experiences ultimate relaxation and wellness.

The Spa at The Oberoi Udaivilas

Experience ultimate luxury and relaxation at The Spa located in The Oberoi Udaivilas. This magnificent spa offers a variety of Ayurvedic treatments and therapies that aim to restore balance and harmony to both your body and mind. Situated by the picturesque Lake Pichola, the spa is surrounded by lush gardens and a serene environment. Guests can pamper themselves with a wide range of Ayurvedic treatments, including massages, body treatments, and beauty therapies. Additionally, yoga and meditation classes are available to further enhance your well-being. With its opulent amenities and peaceful ambiance, The Spa at The Oberoi Udaivilas is the perfect destination for those seeking ultimate relaxation and wellness.

The Spa at The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort

For those looking for a complete spa experience, The Spa at The St. Regis Maldives Vommuli Resort is the ideal destination. Located in the stunning Maldives, this spa offers a variety of treatments and therapies that draw inspiration from the sea and local customs. These services are specifically designed to bring back equilibrium and tranquility to both the body and mind. Set over the water, the spa provides guests with breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. Additionally, the spa boasts luxurious overwater spa suites and personalized attention, ensuring a truly relaxing and rejuvenating experience for visitors.

The Spa at The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay

The Spa at The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay offers an ideal retreat for those in search of a tranquil spa getaway. Inspired by the coastal way of life, this lavish spa experience aims to rejuvenate both the body and mind. Situated in a stunning oceanfront setting, guests can enjoy breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean while indulging in ultimate relaxation. With its opulent amenities and serene ambiance, the spa provides the perfect environment for wellness and complete tranquility.

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The St. Regis Bora Bora Resort

Just because you’re on an island doesn’t mean you can’t indulge in the same luxuries you would find at hotels back on the mainland. Take The St. Regis Bora Bora, for instance, where you’re catered to around the clock by the brand’s signature butler service, as well as by pool attendants, who will happily whisk smoothies (or something stronger) straight to your chaise. Celeb chef Jean-Georges is behind the menu at Asian-fusion eatery The Lagoon, where you can watch a show of sharks swimming beneath the glass-paneled restaurant floor. The resort stretches across three “motus,” or islands, with jagged Mount Otemanu rising as a beacon in the distance, and the sparkling turquoise water is on full display from the transparent floors of the overwater villas—the largest in the South Pacific.

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Four Seasons Resort Bora Bora

Most of the hundred-plus bungalows at Four Seasons Bora Bora stand proudly on stilts over the lagoon (and the few that don’t make up for it in size). Modeled after a traditional Polynesian village, the design—dreamt up by a local architect, with the help of Paris- and San Francisco-based design firms—plays on the natural beauty of the lagoon with an indoor-outdoor concept. Think mother of pearl-accented light fixtures (a nod to Tahiti’s infamous black pearls), tattoo- patterned pillows, and sleek teak furnishings. Named No. 1 in French Polynesia in TripAdvisor’s 2019 Travelers’ Choice Awards, the Four Seasons Bora Bora is the quintessential vision of Tahiti: plunge pools and private ladders leading straight from water bungalows down to the tropical fish-filled lagoon—plus lavish spa treatments like a tailored-for-you massage experience.

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InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa

When deciding between InterContinental Bora Bora Resort & Thalasso Spa’s 84 overwater villas, the main choice you’ll have to make is the view: lagoon, beach or mountains? Traditional architectural touches (bamboo, carved mother of pearl, weavings) remind you you’re in French Polynesia, but the state-of-the-art in-room technology feels as cosmopolitan as New York. A glass-bottomed coffee table doubles as a porthole to the al fresco aquarium below, and sundecks feature outdoor freshwater showers perfect for cooling off in between sunbathing and dips in the lagoon. You can also soak up the views while soaking in your private plunge pool. Another reason to book a stay here: the thalassotherapy center, the first seawater therapy spa in the region that weaves nutrients extracted from the depths of the South Pacific into its ancient Polynesian rituals (performed in glass-bottom treatment rooms, of course). The InterContinental is also home to four new satellite suites with the largest private plunge pools in French Polynesia courtesy of Tahiti’s most exclusive resort—The Brando.

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Conrad Bora Bora Nui

The majority of the high-end resorts in Bora Bora sit on the opposite side of the lagoon, so you won’t have to worry about sharing space—or views. Set on its own private atoll, across from Bora Bora on the southwest end of Motu To’opua, the Conrad Bora Bora Nui offers the largest stretch of sand in the area (spanning nearly half a mile), plus some of Tahiti’s best coral reefs—so snorkeling here is top-notch. Lounge on the pool deck of your overwater private bungalow on a hammock suspended over the sea—or in the sauna if you’ve opted for the presidential villa. Sporting the only two-story, overwater villas in French Polynesia, rooms here feature butler service, three terraces, an infinity pool overlooking the horizon, and a bar area, so you don’t have to go too far to find refreshments for sunset.

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Le Tikehau by Pearl Resorts

French Polynesia is home to six archipelagos, but one of the lesser known (and less crowded) is Tuamotu, 220 miles north of Tahiti. White- and pink-sand islands dot the 177-square-mile lagoon surrounding the Tikehau atoll (population 500), an hour’s flight from Tahiti’s capital. You won’t find modern luxuries at Le Tikehau by Pearl Resorts (sorry, no air-conditioning). But the cool, marine breeze and views of the crystal-clear lagoons make up for it. With only 24 overwater suites and bungalows (which span over 1,000 square feet), you’ll practically have the lagoon all to yourself. If you really want privacy, go for the premium bungalows at the far end of the pontoon, which feature chaise lounges, glass floors, and easy access to the lagoon below.

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Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa

Why choose between sunrise or sunset views when you can have both? That’s the luxury of a stay in one of Hilton Moorea Lagoon Resort & Spa’s overwater bungalows, which dot the two bays bordering the island of Moorea. The W-shaped string of bungalows offers picture-perfect views of both the lagoon and mountain-lined island, and while the style is still very much classic French Polynesian in design, inside is the complete opposite. Marble-clad bathrooms sport rain showers, claw-foot tubs, and flat-screen TVs loaded with films. The best show is right below your feet, though, thanks to the glass-floor viewing panel.

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Few travelers think to contact the hotel concierge for much more than directions or restaurant recommendations—but if you don’t, you’re missing out on a wealth of local expertise. A good hotel concierge has impressive powers and can assist with almost any travel problem you might face, so you shouldn’t be afraid to take advantage.

That said, a concierge is not a magician. Below are 14 things your hotel concierge can do for you, six more they can’t, and four tips for maximizing your moments at the hotel lobby.

What a Hotel Concierge Can Do for You

Save You Money

The concierge can tell you how to get to the airport for less, where to find nearby happy hours, what the best free sights and activities are, and how much is a fair price for a taxi.

Recommend Fitness Facilities

If your hotel doesn’t have a gym or lacks the equipment you want, the concierge can usually point you to an affiliated hotel with better facilities, recommend a good running trail, or give you a list of nearby fitness centers that offer daily or weekly passes.

Get You a Ride When There Seems to Be None Available

If it is rush hour, raining, or really late, finding a taxi or Uber ride can be tough. The concierge can make this happen with a phone call in many cases. This can even work if you’re not staying at the hotel in question. I once saw a friend walk into the lobby of a New York hotel and offer the concierge a tip; within seconds, we had a ride.

Get Tickets for You

Many concierges are careful to say they can’t get tickets for sold-out shows, but the truth is they sometimes can. They may have relationships with brokers, or know season ticket holders who may not be using their seats, or even have tickets themselves; Michael Fazio, author of Concierge Confidential, started to purchase tickets to certain shows that he would then sell to guests, usually at a markup that matched the secondary market.

Keep You Safe

A concierge can offer advice on whether a neighborhood, park, or activity is safe to visit, and what you can do instead if your idea is iffy.

Help You Celebrate

Are you proposing to your partner or celebrating a landmark birthday? Your hotel concierge can help with anything from filling your hotel room with flowers and balloons to organizing a rooftop proposal, complete with a photographer to document the occasion.

Help You Do Your Job

A concierge can assist with all kinds of work-related tasks, such as getting materials to a printer, setting up a courier service, mailing packages, and setting up a meeting space.

Help You Look Good

A concierge can get you an appointment with a barber or hairdresser, get clothes pressed, and more.

Fix Sticky Travel Problems

A concierge can help you find an expeditor or make an embassy appointment if your passport is stolen, or facilitate repairs if your smartphone goes on the fritz. They can also accept overnight mail or late-arriving luggage.

Get You a Table

Restaurants will often find a way to fit in customers who are recommended by their preferred concierge contacts. If the restaurant is truly full, the concierge can often get you to the front of a waiting list.

Recommend Local Service Folks

Need a babysitter, an auto repair shop, or a dog walker? Your concierge can help.

Create a Custom Itinerary

If you have a bunch of stuff you definitely want to do but are uncertain how to make it all fit together, the concierge can take your list of attractions and put together a coherent and achievable plan. He or she can also help you avoid pitfalls such as road construction or closed subway stations.

Help with Special Needs

If you are disabled, aren’t feeling well, or have other special needs, a hotel concierge can offer considerable assistance—like calling wheelchair-accessible taxis, finding English-speaking doctors, and recommending restaurants that can accommodate certain food allergies.

Provide Assistance Before You Arrive

The concierge can be a resource not just once you’re at the hotel but beforehand as well. For instance, he or she could help you plan out your first day, including a restaurant reservation for dinner.

What Your Hotel Concierge Can’t Do for You

Gossip

Discretion is an integral part of a concierge’s job, so they tend not to talk about other guests, including which celebrities might be staying in the hotel.

Illegal or Immoral Activities

You shouldn’t expose a concierge to risk by asking him or her to help with illegal—or dubiously legal—activities such as obtaining drugs, forging signatures, finding “companions,” or the like.

Babysit

A concierge can help you find someone else to look after your child, but he or she can’t actually do the babysitting while on duty.

Float You a Loan

They’ll help you with money concerns, but concierges are not banks; don’t ask them to dig into their pockets for you.

Sell Stuff for You

Concierges are also not your personal eBay or Craigslist; they can’t sell tickets you no longer need or items you don’t want to take home. However, he or she may be able to recommend a place where you can do the sale yourself.

Book Tickets to Sold-Out Shows

Truly sold-out shows tend to be just that; however, you can ask if the concierge has any ideas or contacts to help get you tickets, and he or she might have a strategy for you. If there is truly no way to get certain tickets, the concierge will tell you so.

Tips for Using a Hotel Concierge

Don’t Be Shy

You might feel as though the concierge is only there for the folks in the penthouse suite, but this isn’t the case; he or she is there to help all guests, so feel free to ask.

Give Them Some Time

Concierges can often pull off difficult tasks, but to do so on very short notice is tricky, and it distracts them from helping other guests. Give the concierge some notice if you need something beyond simple advice.

Present the Concierge’s Card

When a concierge sends you to a restaurant or other establishment, it is often his or her name, not yours, that is the attraction for the proprietor. So if a concierge asks you to show his or her card, do it; these relationships are what makes concierges able to help you now and in the future.

Not All Concierges Are the Same

Concierges at the very best (and most expensive) hotels are notorious for pulling off near-miracles; those at less prestigious establishments typically don’t have the same pull.

Traveling? Get a Carry-On That Does More

3 words: lightweight, durable, & multi-functional. The Carry-On from Away makes traveling that much easier, especially with its removable, TSA-approved battery for your electronics.

More from SmarterTravel:

• 10 Hotel Room Exercises You Can Do Without Any Workout Gear
• 9 Luxe Hotels You Can Actually Afford to Book
• The 11 Best Hotel Booking Sites

Ed Hewitt is a seasoned globetrotter who brings you a biweekly glimpse into the latest travel news, views, and trends—and how they could affect your travel plans.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated with the latest information.

The post 14 Things a Hotel Concierge Can Do for You (And 6 Things They Can’t) appeared first on SmarterTravel.

Whether it was from a friend who had visited or through a simple Google search, hammam spas kept popping up when I was researching things to do in Morocco.

And while I’m no spa connoisseur, going to a Moroccan hammam spa seemed like something I had to do on my trip. Here’s what it was like to get naked at one.

What Is a Moroccan Hammam Spa?

Moroccan hammams are part of many Moroccans’ daily life. Similar to a Turkish bath, a public hammam is a steam room where people go to clean themselves. This is usually a weekly ritual and is considered a social activity in villages and towns, with men, women, and children all participating. Baths are separated by gender and many people will spend hours here chatting with friends. While in Islamic culture women are typically covered from head to toe in public, they’re fully naked at hammams.

Upon entering the hammam spa you’ll get a bucket, a mat to lie on, some black soap, and exfoliating gloves (or you can hire someone to exfoliate you) and you essentially clean and exfoliate yourself in large steam rooms among everyone else, using your bucket and water from a tap.

A Moroccan hammam spa at a hotel would be much different. Treatments vary by hotel, but the general process is that you first soak in a pool or sit in a steam room, then you’re rinsed, exfoliated, and massaged. Here are all the dirty details of my experience.

What to Bring to a Moroccan Hammam Spa

Depending on what kind of spa you’re going to, bring a change of underwear and clothes, hairbrush, toiletries, makeup, and flip flops. Each spa is different, but it’s better to be over-prepared than under.

If you’re uncomfortable going totally naked, bring a bathing suit. Some hotel spas will provide paper underwear. Ask when you’re making your reservation what is provided so you can decide beforehand what you’re most comfortable with.

What to Expect at a Moroccan Hammam Spa at a Hotel

The receptionist said “take everything off” when she handed over a robe, paper thong, and flip flops. Obviously, if you’re going to a Moroccan hammam spa in Morocco, your spa specialist might not speak English. It was clear this would be the case when my attendant handed me a towel, motioned that I take off my robe, and led me to a steam room after I walked out of the changing room.

I was traveling with a friend, which helped ease some of the awkwardness. We had read in the treatment description that we’d be in the steam room for about 10 minutes, but after what seemed like forever, an attendant came in and gave us water bottles. Unclear if we were able to leave, we stayed in the steam room another 15 to 20 minutes, and ultimately decided to walk out when we couldn’t handle the heat anymore.

The attendants didn’t seem to mind, though looking back they probably thought we were crazy for staying in there so long. They directed us to the hammam’s beautiful (but completely open) mosaic showers. My friend was directed through another opening to a more private shower, and I was asked to take off my towel and paper underwear as I was rinsed off. I was then asked to lay down on a marble slab where my attendant said “henna” (like the tattoo) and applied a thick, brown-blackish paste to my body. After letting my skin absorb this goo, it was back to the shower to be rinsed.

Then came exfoliation. This part of the experience is uniquely Moroccan and taken very seriously. I was scrubbed with what seemed like sandpaper from head to toe, and think an entire layer of skin came off my body through this process, as I wondered what a normal amount of dead skin to come off was … it felt surprisingly good, but was definitely intense. I’m sure if there wasn’t a language barrier I could have asked her to scrub softer, but I endured it before heading to the shower for yet another rinse.

Next came a calming clay mask. After application, the attendant covered me with a cloth and motioned for me to close my eyes. After about 30 minutes laying on the marble slab, she came back, led me to the shower to rinse off again, and pointed to some provided hair products. I fully showered this time, was (finally) handed a towel, and led to a room where I was asked if I wanted a massage. Unsure if this was included in the price, I politely said no. Instead, she quickly applied lotion over my entire body and handed my robe back.

After an overwhelming but ultimately relieving experience, I followed her to the relaxation room, where a kettle full of mint tea was waiting for me. My friend soon joined and we concluded that we were happy we experienced a Moroccan hammam, but we’d probably never need to do it again. We then headed back to reality in the busy streets of Marrakech … with one less layer of skin.

How to Pick a Moroccan Hammam Spa

Marrakech is known for its hammams and is one of the best places to get authentic hammam spa treatments in Morocco.

I received my Moroccan hammam spa treatment at La Mamounia, a luxury resort. If you’re looking for a certain level of comfort, book here or at another resort like Royal Mansour (of Instagram fame) or Selman Marrakech. You can easily call or email for a reservation ahead of time, and the spa menu at resorts will be in English. Because the exchange rate is so favorable at the moment, treatments are around $100 USD, which is a deal compared to U.S. and European spa prices.

For a less expensive (under $50) Moroccan hammam spa treatment, book at a riad, a traditional Moroccan home, like Riad les Jardins Mandaline or Riad Camilia. Other traditional hammam options include the popular Hammam de La Rose and Le Bain Bleu, both located in the Marrakech medina.

For the most authentic experience, consider a public hammam spa, like Hammam Dar el-Bacha. It’s the city’s largest traditional hammam with women-only hours in the afternoon and evening.

Must-Pack Spa Essentials

More from SmarterTravel:

• Morocco Packing List for Women: What to Wear in Morocco
• 10 Best Things to Do in Morocco
• 11 Things to Know Before You Go to Morocco

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Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post I Got Naked in a Moroccan Hammam Spa: Here’s What It Was Like appeared first on SmarterTravel.

The Adler Spa Resort Thermae offers a full-immersion wellness experience that includes bountiful sauna options, a vast menu of medi-spa offerings, and thermal pools. In addition to its spa program, this resort in the heart of Tuscany’s Val D’Orcia offers excursions, health programs, and a kids’ club.

The Location

The Adler Spa Resort Thermae is nestled next to a tiny town in the heart of the Val D’Orcia in Tuscany, Italy. The valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers iconic Tuscan landscapes of rolling hills and cypress-studded lanes. It’s an hour’s drive from Siena, about two hours from Florence, and about two hours and 20 minutes from Rome. To get to Adler Spa Thermae, you’ll take country roads past olive groves and through forests. As you drive, you’ll get views of Tuscan hill towns and the rugged landscape that characterizes this valley.

As you wind up the road to the resort, you’ll pass a small public parking lot for the tiny nearby town (it’s a quick and easy walk down a picturesque path from the resort to the village) and its natural hot springs—an extension of the hot springs network that feeds the resorts’ pools as well. The resort’s sign signals that you’ve arrived, though you’ll continue to wend your way up the hill before you see any sign of it—it’s woven into the landscape in such a way that you almost don’t know it’s there until you’ve arrived.

The Spa

In the world of wellness resorts, there are hotels that offer a spa as part of their offerings, and then there are wellness resorts like the Adler Thermae. Its spa + med approach mingles traditional spa treatments with wellness-oriented medical offerings including dermatologic micro-surgery, cryolipolysis, needling, and Ultherapy natural lifting. There are customizable programs built around wellness goals including detox, weight loss and nutrition, stress management, prevention and anti-aging, and aesthetic medicine. The spa also offers a range of Ayurvedic treatments and massages.

And yes, there are massages (and they’re great), but the reason people come from all over the world to Adler Spa Thermae is its extensive offerings of treatments rarely found in this relaxing of an environment. Treatments included on the 30+ page spa menu include facial radiofrequency, oxygen bath, watsu, hydrokinesiotherapy, mineral mudtherapy, Somato Emotional Release, and HAKI treatments.

Beyond scheduled treatments, there’s an abundance of self-directed wellness and relaxation activities to choose from. The spa has 12 different saunas, including the Philosopher’s Cave, a sauna built into a rock formation; a clay therapy sauna; and a sauna that incorporates local herbal traditions. The resort’s crowning glory: two pools, centered at the heart of the resort, overlooking the valley.

Spa treatments range widely in price, from under 20 euros for 20 minutes in the blissfully peaceful Salt Grotto and around 50 euros for mineral mudtherapy to 1,800 euros for Ultherapy natural lifting. Most treatments cost about the same or, in many cases, less than what you’d expect to pay at North American spa. There are also a number of programs and packages that combine treatments for optimal effect.

The Rooms

There are just two room types at the Adler Spa Thermae: superior double rooms, with terraces or balconies yielding views of the surrounding wild Tuscan landscape, as well as wood floors, walk-in rain showers, and satellite TVs; and two-bedroom family suites, which offer the same amenities plus space for up to five people.

Dining

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served on site, with breakfast and dinner at the upscale resort restaurant and lunch at the more casual poolside cafe. There’s also a bar next to the lobby.

Meals unfold in an unhurried Italian style, with multiple courses offered at a leisurely pace. While offerings are, for the most part, healthy and light, the tradition of multicourse lunches and dinners reminds guests that self-care does not have to mean self-denial. You’re in Italy, after all, a place where meals are not an afterthought but a non-negotiable centerpiece of the daily routine.

Amenities

The Adler Outdoors program offers daily guided activities like guided hikes and biking tours. Mountain bikes and e-bikes are available to borrow at no cost, and racing bikes are available at a nominal daily rate. Guided fitness activities at the resort are part of the Adler Fit program, which includes daily yoga, access to fitness facilities, and more. The AKI Kids’ Club offers supervised activities and excursions for children four and older, and allows parents and caregivers time off to enjoy the more relaxing elements of the resort.

Price and How to Book: Rooms start at 194 euros ($214 at time of publication; check XE.com for current exchange rates) per night and can be booked on the Adler Spa Resort Thermae website, or you can compare rates with TripAdvisor (SmarterTravel’s parent company).

More from SmarterTravel:

• 9 Remote Spa Getaways Where No One Can Bother You
• 10 Coolest Hydrotherapy Spas in the World
• 7 Great Things to Do in Tuscany with Kids

Christine Sarkis visited Adler Spa Resort Thermae as a guest of the resort. Follow her on Instagram @postcartography for more advice about making every vacation the best vacation.

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With so many tempting possibilities, deciding where to stay in Germany can turn into a dilemma. Should you choose ultra-modern hotels or charm-filled historic properties? Should you dream away your nights at country inns, fairytale castles, or pampering spa resorts? Even if you’re on a budget, Germany’s lodging options include hotels, B&Bs, and hostels that are among Europe’s very best. Or, for a change of pace, you can spend a few days on a farm or a countryside vineyard. Can’t choose? The best plan may be to mix and match as you travel through the country, sampling some of Germany’s best accommodations.

Traditional Hotels in Germany

Germany uses the international rating system of stars for hotels, from modest one-stars to five-star luxury. In one- and two-star hotels, you’ll find smaller rooms and perhaps shared bathrooms. From three stars up, hotels will have an on-site restaurant, luggage service, private bathrooms, and a reception desk that stays open at least 12 hours of each day. At four- and five-star hotels, you’ll enjoy room service and plenty of amenities, including robes and washcloths.

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German lodging standards are very high, and you can generally expect clean and comfortable rooms with breakfast included. Better hotels may serve a lavish morning buffet that includes eggs, meats, yogurt, fruits, and cheese. Many hotels in all price ranges have Wi-Fi, though sometimes for a fee.

Europeans still tend to smoke more cigarettes than Americans do, so if you’re sensitive to smoke, it’s worth requesting a nonsmoking room or floor when you make your reservation. Be aware that in a climate where air-conditioning is seldom necessary, many older hotels may not have it. If you are planning a summer trip, be sure to check.

Keep a copy of your reservation confirmation with you to make sure the promised rate is honored. Always check hotel sites directly for specials and deals, such as low weekend rates in cities when business travelers go home. During major events like Munich’s Oktoberfest or the Frankfurt Book Fair, rooms are scarce and rates can double or even triple. You can also find great deals on Germany hotels via TripAdvisor (SmarterTravel’s parent company) and Hotels.com.

Germany’s Romantik Hotels

While star ratings tell you about amenities, they do not measure charm, and many older European hotels have great appeal. Among the most enjoyable places to stay in Germany are the aptly named Romantik Hotels, found in Germany’s major cities as well as in its smaller towns. The hotels in this group are all in historic buildings and owner-managed.

Another romantic experience is to choose a schlosshotel, or castle converted into a hotel. Germany has more of these special accommodations than anywhere else in Europe. You can find many of them listed at TripAdvisor, and at a site called Castle and Palace Hotels.

Note that some of Germany’s older hotels do not have elevators, so if stairs are a problem for you, make sure to request a room on the ground floor.

Germany’s Country Hotels

The German countryside has so much beauty and so many attractions that it is well worth your time to plan part of your itinerary in Germany away from the cities. This will give you the chance to experience delightful places to stay such as gasthofs and gasthauses, atmospheric country inns that also serve good local food.

For a different experience, spend time at a countryside bauernhof, a farm that offers rooms for travelers. These are great fun for families, especially for city dwellers. You can also stay amid scenic vineyards at a winzerhof, a winery guesthouse. A site called LandReise is an excellent source for these types of lodgings (though it’s only in German; use the Chrome browser for translation). Bavaria alone boasts more than 1,000 farmstay listings, along with its own association and website to help find them: Farm-Holidays.com.

Germany’s Spa Hotels

Ever since Roman times, visitors have been coming to Germany to “take the waters” in health spas surrounded by hot mineral springs said to have healing properties. “Bad” means bath, and hotels in cities such as Bad Reichenhall, Wiesbaden, and chic Baden-Baden share access to the coveted spa waters. Many of these cities also have diversions like casinos and fine eateries. Hotels vary from modest to super-luxurious. Check listings in each town to make your choice, as well as Booking.com.

Germany’s Budget Hotels, B&Bs, and Homestays

For those who are looking for a well-priced hotel in Germany, booking services like Expedia and Hotels.com offer good values in all price categories. Another good source is Best Western. The chain’s listings in Europe are not motels as they are in some parts of the U.S., but rather small hotels that have been inspected and are reliable. If you’re willing to stay outside the city center and take public transportation to get around, you can often find lower rates in better hotels. Just be sure that quick connections are near the hotel.

Germany has its full share of economical bed and breakfast choices, as well. B&Bs, also known as pensions, may be small hotels, but most often, they’re private homes with live-in hosts. They are a far more personal experience than staying in a hotel. The best way to find listings is by contacting the local tourist offices in the areas you plan to visit. You can also find listings at international online services such as BBOnline, BnBFinder, BedandBreakfast.com or, of course, Airbnb.

At the lower end of the lodgings scale in Germany are zimmer, meaning simply “rooms,” in private houses, offered by families that have a spare bedroom or two. These can be especially handy if you’re looking for an overnight while touring the country by car. Watch for signs that say “Zimmerfrei” (room available), check with the local tourist office for locations, or try Homestay.com.

Germany Vacation Rentals

Apartment and home rentals provide more spacious quarters and can be less expensive than booking multiple hotel rooms when traveling with family or a group of friends. The agencies and websites that specialize in offering these types of properties have listings ranging from studios in the city to villas in the country. Among the sources to try are Airbnb, HomeAway, and TripAdvisor’s vacation rentals page.

Ask for references or read reviews from people who have previously rented the property that you’re considering. Be sure that someone will be on call to help in case of emergency, like a lost key or a plumbing problem. If you’re hungry for more information before making your reservation, read up about what you need to know about booking a vacation rental.

If you’re planning to stay in Germany for a week or longer, you could consider a house swap. A German family might be delighted to trade their home or apartment for yours, saving each of you a lot of money. Specialized agencies such as HomeExchange or Intervac have listings all over the world, including many in Germany. As with rentals, references from others who have stayed in the property are invaluable. Not quite sure how to arrange this type of accommodation? Read more about how to set up a home exchange.

Hostels in Germany

Germany helped pioneer the idea of youth hostels, and today has more than 500 hostel properties that are among Europe’s most modern. While they still offer the bunk rooms that are popular with thrifty students, many hostels also offer private double rooms and family-style rooms that appeal to budget-conscious older travelers. Rates are modest and often include breakfast.

The best hostels book up fast, so reserve well in advance. Find listings at the German Youth Hostel Association or via Hostelling International, an organization that covers countries around the world. You may also want to consider investing in a Hostelling International membership, as this will allow you to stay worldwide at deeply discounted rates.

More from SmarterTravel: 

• Planning a Trip to Europe: Your 10-Step Guide
• The Best Way to Carry Money Overseas
• Getting Around Germany: Transportation Tips

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–original research and reporting by Eleanor Berman

Editor’s note: This story was originally published in 2017. It has been updated to reflect the most current information.

The post Where to Stay in Germany: Lodging Tips You Need to Know appeared first on SmarterTravel.

So, you’re ready to pop the question and you want it to be special … really special. You already know you want to do it on your next big trip, but there’s one major factor you haven’t figured out yet—where should you go?

The perfect place to propose can’t just be romantic, it also has to be an amazing destination that you and your partner want to visit. (That way they’ll never see it coming.) It has to be exciting, picturesque, and maybe a little bit over-the-top—depending on how much money you have left over after you buy the ring.

The following places make it easy to plan a proposal and can supply the perfect backdrop for the story you’ll be telling for the rest of your life.

New Orleans, Louisiana

Having recently had the chance to witness a friend’s proposal in New Orleans, I can personally say that this city was made for spontaneous romance and celebration. Not only does its flower-filled French Quarter provide an intimate backdrop, New Orleans is also a city that’s more than ready to celebrate your big day with you. Whether you hire a marching band for a spectacle or plan something simpler like proposing mid-stroll in Jackson Square, New Orleans offers plenty of romance and many places to party afterwards.

Where to Stay: For a big trip like this, you can live it up at the Ritz-Carlton. Located just outside, but not too far from, the French Quarter, you can stay close to the party while also geting your beauty rest. Let the front desk know about the proposal and they’ll make sure to have champagne in-room when you get back.

New York City, New York

If you’re a high-roller looking to plan a big gesture, it doesn’t get any splurgier than New York City. With so many iconic places to choose from (Central Park, Times Square, the Brooklyn Bridge, etc.), the island of Manhattan is chock-full of show-stopping proposal settings. But if you’re looking for something truly remarkable, check into the Jewel Suite at the Lotte Palace. This sparkling 5,000-square-foot suite was designed in partnership with renowned jeweler Martin Katz and displays jewelry valued at over 1.5 million dollars. Call ahead of time and the hotel will plant the ring in the display case so you can give your partner the surprise of their life when you open up that million-dollar case and ask them to marry you.

Where to Stay: Can’t swing the Palace, but still want your New York City proposal to be special? Book a night or two at the Park South Hotel, a boutique hotel in the fashionable NoMad neighborhood, for an affordable hotel with luxury touches.

Santa Barbara, California

If you think your partner might sense something is up if you suggest a huge trip, plan a weekend getaway instead. For West Coasters, Santa Barbara is the perfect example of a laid-back but romantic destination. There are plenty of good question-popping spots, from the beach to Kapp’s Castle, but if you’re looking for something more private, check out the rooftop at the Kimpton Canary Hotel. With 360-degree views, you can time your proposal for sunset to match this Mediterranean-inspired hotel. The staff of the hotel can help you craft and customize your proposal, so you can be sure your privacy will be guaranteed and your partner will be romantically surprised.

Where to Stay: Whether or not you take advantage of the rooftop as an option, the Kimpton Canary is still a good choice for accommodations since it’s right downtown and has the only rooftop hotel pool in the area.

Outer Banks, North Carolina

For East Coasters looking for a casual-seeming weekend getaway to the beach, the Outer Banks in North Carolina is just the place for plotting your proposal. If you’re not feeling a beach proposal, you can also propose at the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse or among the dunes at Jockey Ridge State Park. Or consider the gazebo at the Sanderling Resort, which faces westward toward the sunset and extends over the Currituck Sound. The resort’s staff can help you arrange the perfect proposal and hook you up with a local photographer to capture the moment.

Where to Stay: The oceanfront Sanderling Resort in Duck, North Carolina doesn’t just come with the perfect proposal backdrop, it also offers a spa, two pools, and private beach access.

Lake Geneva, Wisconsin

If you want to time your proposal with a snowy Valentine’s Day trip, head to Wisconsin’s Lake Geneva. Visit for Winterfest, a nine-day festival featuring the U.S. National Snow Sculpting Championship and illuminated jaw-dropping ice castles that are big enough to walk around in. The festival would make a great place to propose, but if you want to really wow your loved one, you can sign on for a helicopter ride over the Grand Geneva Resort and fly over the heart-shaped pond, where you can customize a message written in snow. It’s only big enough to fit 15 characters, but that’s still enough for “Marry me?”

Where to Stay: When you book the helicopter proposal package at the Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, it also comes with breakfast in bed, a five-course dinner, and a private winter photoshoot.

Finland 

Finland might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of taking a romantic vacation, but it should be—especially in winter. For the majority of people living outside the polar circles, seeing the Northern Lights is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. And it’s one worth booking a few days for to account for the possibility of poor visibility or weather.

Where to Stay: You won’t miss a moment of the light show when you stay in a geodesic domes like the ones at Torassieppi. These romantic see-through cabins are the perfect place to cozy up with your partner and celebrate your engagement. You can book them here.

Italy

Good wine, delicious food, and those soft yellow sunsets you always imagined Italy would have … need I say more? Italy is already a romantic destination, but if you don’t want hordes of tourists to be part of your picture-perfect proposal, you can forget about proposing on a gondola in Venice or in front of Rome’s Trevi Fountain. Instead, get yourself out of the major cities and into a villa. Propose among the vines or in an olive tree orchard and treat you and your partner to a week of good food, wine, and idyllic landscapes.

Where to Stay: La Cucina Sabina is a culinary resort located just thirty minutes north of Rome. It has seen many successful proposals on its property over the years and the owners can offer guests a personalized experience and help you scout out the right place and time for your proposal.

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Where to Stay: When in Mexico for a romantic trip, it’s best to go for the adults-only resort option. At the Hilton Playa del Carmen, all the rooms are suites, which means the two of you can enjoy your own private balcony and hot tub. There’s even an on-site romance concierge who can help you plan a candlelit dinner on the beach or set up a private sailing trip at sunset.

St. Moritz, Switzerland

The luxe Alpine ski town of St. Moritz is a place that seems more fairy-tale than reality. Whether you ask the question during dinner on top of the world at Corviglia Ski Resort or on a romantic horse-driven carriage ride through the snowy landscape courtesy of the Carlton Hotel, you won’t have any trouble finding the perfect spot, since practically everywhere in St. Moritz is the best place to propose.

Where to Stay: In addition to the carriage rides, the Carlton Hotel St. Moritz’s romance package includes a couple’s massage in the hotel’s stunning spa plus an exclusive five-course dinner.

More from SmarterTravel:

• America’s Most Romantic Hotels
• How to Pack Formal Wear for a Wedding
• 7 Most Romantic Resorts in Hawaii

Jamie Ditaranto is a writer and photographer always looking for her next adventure. Follow her on Instagram @jamieditaranto.

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Looking for a big oceanfront resort where your kids can build sandcastles on the beach and splash in the pool all week? Kauai has that. Or would you prefer a secluded B&B where you can sip your morning coffee on a private lanai overlooking a lush tropical valley? Kauai has that, too. From glitzy resorts and luxury condos to oceanfront cottages and intimate inns, Kauai hotels span the gamut of travel styles and amenities.

Below are 10 of the best hotels in Kauai, with options for every price point. When evaluating the properties below, keep in mind that Hawaii is an expensive place to visit, and Kauai is no exception: At busy times of year, even a “budget” property will cost nearly $200 a night.

Where to Stay in Kauai

The South Shore is the sunniest part of the island and has some of the best beaches and biggest Kauai resorts, especially in the area around Poipu. Meanwhile, the spectacular beauty of the North Shore makes up for its slightly rainier weather. You’ll find many of the more affordable Kauai hotels on the busy eastern coast, which has plenty of restaurants and shops, and makes a good base to explore the island’s many attractions.

Can’t find a hotel you like? Consider vacation rentals instead.

Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa

If your vacation philosophy is that “bigger is better”—and you don’t mind “bigger” also applying to the price tag—you’ll love the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa. Stretching over 50 beachfront acres on the sunny south side of the island, the resort boasts more than 600 rooms, a spacious spa, 10 restaurants, two tennis courts, and an 18-hole golf course with views of the ocean. But the showstopper is the property’s sprawling network of gardens and pools, which includes a saltwater lagoon, an adult-only pool, a lazy river, and multiple family-friendly freshwater pools, all fringed with colorful tropical landscaping.

Book it: Get prices for Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa

Garden Island Inn Hotel

The family-owned Garden Island Inn Hotel in Lihue is one of Kauai’s best bargains. Each of the 21 rooms includes a kitchenette, free Wi-Fi, artwork by a local artist, and freshly cut flowers from the hotel’s own garden. The hotel also has free beach chairs and towels, snorkel gear, boogie boards, and other gear available for guest use. Kalapaki Beach is within walking distance, and the airport is a short drive away.

Book it: Get prices for Garden Island Inn Hotel

Makai Club Resort

For a mid-priced option on the North Shore, consider the Makai Club Resort. Located right next to an award-winning golf course and just a short drive from the beach, the resort offers one-bedroom condos and two-bedroom cottages, all with full kitchens, laundry facilities, and private balconies overlooking gardens or the mountains. The resort also has a pool and hot tub for guests to use.

Book it: Get prices for Makai Club Resort

Whalers Cove

Every one of the luxe condo units at Whalers Cove offers a full or partial ocean view, which you can enjoy from your own private balcony. Units also feature full-size kitchens and laundry facilities, ideal for long-term stays. Upgrade to a deluxe condo for perks like a Jacuzzi in the master bath and sweeping ocean views from the living and dining rooms. All guests can enjoy the on-site pool, hot tub, and BBQ area. Poipu’s shops and restaurants are a short walk away.

Book it: Get prices for Whalers Cove

The Palmwood

If your idea of luxury involves seclusion, gorgeous views, good food, and attention to detail, give The Palmwood a try. This intimate guesthouse is located on a hill overlooking the mountains of Kauai’s North Shore and offers three airy rooms with private hot tubs and balconies. Past guests rave about the homecooked breakfasts, which feature local and organic ingredients.

Book it: Get prices for The Palmwood

Kauai Coast Resort at the Beachboy

The moderately priced studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom condos at the Kauai Coast Resort at the Beachboy overlook the ocean along Kauai’s east coast. The rocky shoreline here isn’t ideal for swimming, but the views are beautiful (especially at sunrise), and the resort has a pool area and sun deck where you can relax and go for a swim. The property is located next door to the Coconut Marketplace’s shops, restaurants, and farmers’ market.

Book it: Get prices for Kauai Coast Resort at the Beachboy

Marjorie’s Kauai Inn

Odds are you won’t miss the ocean when you’re marveling over the views of the lush, green Lawai Valley from the balcony of your room at Marjorie’s Kauai Inn. But if you do have a hankering for the beach, Poipu is just a short drive away. The breakfast menu changes daily but might include frittata with roasted potatoes, puff-pastry quiche with blueberry muffin bites, or eggs Benedict with Canadian bacon—alongside plenty of fresh fruit from the B&B’s own garden. Each of the three moderately priced rooms has air-conditioning and a comfy queen-sized bed.

Book it: Get prices for Marjorie’s Kauai Inn

St. Regis Princeville Resort

One of the most luxurious Kauai hotels, the St. Regis Princeville offers dramatic views over Hanalei Bay and the jagged green cliffs of the North Shore. Upscale amenities include the Halele’a Spa and an infinity pool overlooking the sea. There are five on-site dining options at this Kauai beach resort, as well as 24-hour room service. The hotel has its own stretch of sand, but there are numerous other beaches within easy driving distance that are well worth exploring.

Book it: Get prices for St. Regis Princeville Resort

Inn Waimea

A historic parsonage converted into a guesthouse, Inn Waimea is a good option for budget travelers looking for no-frills accommodation in the southwestern part of Kauai. Within easy walking distance are a beach and the restaurants and shops of Waimea town. Just a short drive away are the hiking trails and dramatic lookout points of Waimea Canyon and Kokee State Park.

Book it: Get prices for Inn Waimea

Hotel Coral Reef

A small, laid-back property in the historic town of Kapaa on Kauai’s east coast, Hotel Coral Reef is a convenient and moderately priced base for exploring the island. The hotel offers complimentary bikes for use on a nearby path that runs along the ocean. A waterfall spills into one end of the pool, which overlooks the sea. For less street noise and a better view, upgrade to an oceanfront room.

Book it: Get prices for Hotel Coral Reef

More from SmarterTravel:

• The 10 Best Things to Do in Kauai
• What’s the Best Island in Hawaii for You?
• The Essential Hawaii Packing List

Sarah Schlichter traveled to Hawaii as a guest of Hawaiian Airlines and Barclays. Follow her on Twitter @TravelEditor for more travel tips and inspiration.

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Ahhhhhh. Does anything feel better than sinking into a tub of steaming-hot water and letting your muscles—and your mind—relax completely? That’s the prime appeal of staying in a hot spring resort, where thermal pools typically come with an indulgent side of spa treatments, luxurious accommodations, and fine cuisine.

The Best Hot Spring Resorts

The following hot spring resorts offer travelers a chance to soak in natural thermal pools with stunning views of woods, water, or even the northern lights.

Tabacon Thermal Resort and Spa, Arenal, Costa Rica

At the base of Costa Rica’s Arenal Volcano is an inviting collection of steaming hot springs and flowing waterfalls, nestled amid lush tropical foliage. These pools are just a short walk (or free shuttle ride) from Tabacon, and while they’re open to day visitors, the intimate Shangri-La Gardens section is reserved exclusively for guests at this luxurious hot spring resort. Rooms offer cozy sitting areas and rainforest views, and there are restaurants and bars on site.

Puyuhuapi Lodge & Spa, Puyuhuapi, Chile

Tucked away in Chilean Patagonia is Puyuhuapi Lodge & Spa, where you can soak in outdoor hot springs overlooking snow-capped mountains and the serene waters of Dorita Bay. Using this ecolodge as a base, you can hike through a temperate rainforest, sample Chilean wines, and go sea kayaking—then come back and relax with a massage or thalassotherapy algae bath. At dinner, savor locally caught seafood accompanied by vegetables and herbs grown in the lodge’s own greenhouse.

Indian Springs, Calistoga, California

Four geysers provide natural heat and mineral water for the Olympic-size main pool, the private adults-only pool, and the serene Buddha Pond at Indian Springs. This hot spring resort in the Napa Valley offers lodge rooms, cottages, bungalows, and houses for guests looking to get away from it all while exploring California’s Wine Country. The pools stay open until midnight so you can soak under the stars. Don’t miss the resort’s famous Calistoga mud bath treatment, renowned for softening skin and encouraging relaxation.

San Giovanni Terme Rapolano, Rapolano Terme, Italy

As if Tuscany’s picture-perfect hill towns and fine wines weren’t restorative enough, the region is also home to San Giovanni, a hot spring resort with five thermal pools overlooking the countryside. You could easily spend a whole day moving from the waters to a poolside sun lounger to the spa, where you can enjoy a mango butter massage or be treated with healing thermal mud. For those who want to combine relaxation with sightseeing, the hotel is a half-hour’s drive from Siena and about 90 minutes from Florence.

Takinoya, Noboribetsu, Japan

With thousands of hot springs (known as onsens) scattered across the country, Japan is one of the best places on Earth to enjoy a leisurely soak. Try it for yourself at Takinoya, located on the northern island of Hokkaido, where options include rocky pools and infinity-style baths looking out over the surrounding wilderness. You can also enjoy a traditional kaiseki-style meal, wander through tranquil gardens, and sleep on your choice of tatami mats or Western-style beds.

Hot Water Beach Top 10, Coromandel Peninsula, New Zealand

One of the more affordable hot spring resorts on this list, the family-friendly Hot Water Beach Top 10 offers a wide range of lodging options, from villas and motel rooms to cabins and powered RV campsites. While there’s plenty to see nearby—think beaches, hiking trails, and artist studios—the prime draw is Hot Water Beach, where you can dig your own spot and enjoy the natural hot spring water seeping up from under the sand.

Chena Hot Springs Resort, Chena Hot Springs, Alaska

Imagine soaking in a natural hot spring lake while gazing up at the northern lights blazing through the sky overhead: That’s the appeal of a stay at Chena Hot Springs Resort. Located about 60 miles from Fairbanks, the hotel has a large hot spring lake open from 7:00 a.m. to midnight, as well as hot tubs and an indoor pool. Massages and reflexology treatments are available on site. Accommodations include lodge-style rooms, yurts, campsites, and cabins.

Ma’in Hot Springs, Ma’in, Jordan

Discover your own desert oasis—complete with steaming waterfalls and hot spring pools—located near the Dead Sea. Let the warm water cascade down on your shoulders, then work out those last few kernels of tension with a massage at the hotel’s spa facility. Rooms at Ma’in Hot Springs are basic but comfortable, and some offer views of the falls. Guests can dine at multiple on-site restaurants.

The Retreat at Blue Lagoon, Grindavik, Iceland

This brand-new hot spring resort opened in April 2018 and boasts spacious suites with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking either lava fields or the steaming geothermal waters of Iceland’s famous Blue Lagoon. (Upgrade to a Lagoon Suite to enjoy access to the waters right from your door.) For the max in indulgence, sign up for the spa’s Blue Lagoon Ritual, with treatments featuring lagoon ingredients such as algae, mineral salt, and silica.

Harrison Hot Springs Resort, British Columbia, Canada

Travelers flock to this friendly lakefront lodge to take advantage of its five hot spring mineral pools, including one for lap swimming, one for families, and one for adults only. Two of the pools feature waterfalls. Other area activities include hiking, golf, Jet Skiing, and quad-cycling. For a poolside room, book accommodations in the West Tower; for more privacy, rent a cottage.

What to Wear at a Hot Spring Resort

More from SmarterTravel:

• 11 Incredible Hotels Worth Planning Your Whole Trip Around
• 9 Epic Luxury Hotels We’d Book if We Won the Lottery
• Calistoga: A European Spa Town, California-Style

Follow Sarah Schlichter on Twitter @TravelEditor for more travel tips and inspiration.

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