Journey into the world of Thermalism: from thermal tourism to the pursuit of well-being

Thermal tourism is a form of travel experience that harnesses the concept of thermalism: a practice that has been used since ancient times to make use of the properties of thermal waters and mud to treat diseases and improve the body's psychophysical well-being.

Spa tourism offers a wide range of services and solutions that aim to improve the health and well-being of visitors, and can be appreciated by a wide range of people, from lovers of culture and tradition to those looking for a moment of regeneration and relax.

Let's explore the world of thermalism together.

The History of Thermalism

The history of thermalism has deep roots.

The ancient Romans constructed magnificent thermal complexes to take advantage of the therapeutic benefits of thermal waters. Over the centuries, thermalism became increasingly popular, to the point that many destinations in the 19th century began developing their own thermal activities, offering visitors an experience of well-being and relax.

Thermal tourism emerged as a result and gained particular popularity in the second half of the 20th century, partly due to the spread of thermal treatments for specific diseases such as arthritis, fibromyalgia and respiratory diseases.

In 1998, the World Health Organization officially recognized well-being as an integral part of the concept of health, defining health as a state of complete physical and social well-being, not merely the absence of disease.

Today, thermal tourism, in Italy and around the world, is one of the most widespread forms of tourism. Millions of people visit thermal destinations each year to enjoy the benefits of thermal waters and treatments, as well as to relax and rejuvenate in a warm, charming, and welcoming environment.

The Power of Thermal Waters

What makes thermal springs so beloved is the presence of precious thermal waters.

Known since ancient times for their healing and rejuvenating properties, these waters flow from the underground at temperatures higher than that of the human body and contain a wide range of beneficial minerals and substances. Depending on their chemical composition and temperature, thermal waters can have different effects on the body, such as stimulating blood circulation, reducing muscle pain, and eliminating toxins. Additionally, they can be used for hydrotherapy and balneotherapy, which involve the therapeutic use of water, including baths, showers, whirlpools, and wraps.

Thanks to their healing and relaxing properties, thermal waters have become one of the main attractions of wellness tourism, attracting millions of visitors worldwide each year.

Thermalism Around the World

From Italy to the United States, from Turkey to Japan and even in Iceland, thermalism is a global phenomenon with numerous thermal destinations offering high-quality services for those seeking relaxation and well-being.

Thermalism in Europe

In Europe, thermalism is particularly widespread in various locations in France, Hungary, Austria, and Italy. The last one, in particular, boasts numerous prestigious thermal resorts, including Salsomaggiore, renowned for its beneficial fossil waters. These waters are especially recommended for the treatment of rheumatic and respiratory diseases but can also be enjoyed by those simply seeking a moment of relaxation and well-being.

In Iceland, the geothermal hot springs are abundant and highly appreciated by both locals and tourists. They offer a unique thermal experience, immersed in Iceland's stunning nature. Meanwhile, one of the most famous thermal destinations is the ancient Roman Baths in Bath, England. These baths are rich in minerals and are believed to provide relief from stress while also aiding in the treatment of skin conditions, muscles, and bones.

The global reach of thermalism showcases the universal appeal of seeking wellness through thermal waters, attracting visitors from all corners of the world.

Thermalism in Asia

In Asia, thermalism is deeply rooted in the culture. In Japan, for example, hot springs are called onsen and are often situated in natural environments such as mountains or forests. They provide an excellent solution for those seeking peace and tranquility.

Thermalism in America

In Mexico, the thermal waters of Los Cabos are particularly renowned for the treatment of dermatological conditions. Meanwhile, in California, the Calistoga hot springs are famous for their ability to reduce stress and promote relaxation.

Thermalism in Africa

Thermalism in Africa has ancient origins. North Africa has a Roman heritage that includes numerous Roman baths built during the Roman Empire, many of which still exist today. On the other hand, in South Africa, there are numerous natural thermal springs and luxurious spas that attract tourists from around the world due to their healing and relaxing effects. Many of these thermal resorts are situated in stunning natural landscapes, offering unforgettable experiences.

Current Wellness Industry Trends

The wellness and thermal tourism industry is experiencing steady growth worldwide. The global market grew by 6.5% between 2015 and 2017, reaching a value of 552 billion euros.

Thermal tourism is highly popular in Italy, positioning the country in the global top ten in the sector, with a total business value of over 18 billion dollars in 2018. Thermal destinations welcome over 15 million visitors annually, representing 4.2% of estimated tourist stays in hotel accommodations in Italy. These statistics confirm that the wellness sector is continuously growing, presenting a significant opportunity for the economic and tourist development of our country.

Thermal Tourism: Wellness Sector Offerings

Thermal tourism represents an increasingly popular form of vacation centered around seeking physical and mental well-being through the therapeutic properties of thermal waters.

In the wellness sector, there are various and diverse offerings for thermal tourism.

Thermal Spas

Thermal spas, also known as wellness centers, offer a wide range of services including thermal pools, saunas, steam baths, and massages. Usually situated in picturesque locations, immersed in breathtaking natural landscapes, these spas provide a comprehensive experience of relaxation and well-being.

Thermal Resorts

Thermal resorts are also highly appreciated, as they are hotel facilities that offer exclusive wellness and body care services. These resorts provide many of the treatments offered by spas, along with a wide range of sports and cultural activities, as well as aesthetic treatments.

Thermal-Focused Tour Packages

There is also a growing availability of thermal-focused tour packages, which include hotel stays with wellness services, spa treatments, and sports and cultural activities in the surrounding areas. These packages are ideal for those seeking a vacation dedicated to well-being and body care, as well as for those who want to discover the natural beauty of the region.

Many thermal establishments also offer fitness and wellness programs, such as yoga and meditation classes, swimming pools, tennis courts, and spas.

However, thermal tourism is not only about healing and health; it is also an experience of relaxation and comfort for the mind and spirit, alleviating the stresses of daily life. Thermal resorts offer a wide range of services that stimulate the senses in a unique way, where the textures and scents of the surroundings and thermal products, in relation to colors, flavors, and temperatures, allow for the perception of thermal synesthesia. This transforms the vacation into a unique and unforgettable sensory experience.

From well-being to cosmetics: thermalism applied to thermal cosmetics

The benefits of thermal water for the body and mind are now well known, but not everyone is aware that by using the properties of thermal waters, it is possible to create thermal cosmetics that promote skin well-being.

The products from Il Tempio della Salute, based on fossil water from Salsomaggiore, are an example of how the properties of thermal water can be utilized to create high-quality cosmetics. Thanks to its unique composition of salts and minerals, this water can hydrate, nourish, and combat skin imperfections, improving its elasticity and radiance.

Our cosmetics combine these benefits with innovative and functional formulations to work synergistically with each other, allowing you to recreate the thermal experience in your own bathroom. With our beauty routines, you always have specific cosmetics available for the health of your skin, ranging from sensitive to mature skin types. Additionally, with our travel mini routines, you can always have a thermal treat with you, even when you can't visit a wellness center.

Thermal tourism is a journey to discover well-being

The objective of thermal tourism is to offer a journey towards complete rejuvenation of the body and mind. 

Thanks to the beneficial properties of thermal waters and the professionalism of the industry operators, the world of thermalism is capable of providing experiences of the highest level that go beyond mere physical well-being.