Written by Kristi Carrara
When I accepted the invitation to travel to Croatia and Italy, I was thrilled by the prospect of exploring historic cities and soaking up the art and architecture of these European gems. Little did I know that the true highlight of my trip would be the thermal waters, an ancient tradition that would profoundly deepen my appreciation for my own hometown, Saratoga Springs.
The adventure began in Zagreb, where I stepped into the grandeur of the Esplanade Hotel. This exquisite establishment, once a stop on the Orient Express, radiated a timeless elegance that had me imagining past royalty and celebrities descending the same opulent staircases.
That first evening, during a delightful dinner hosted by Marcos Danas from Greece, I was introduced to the world of thermal waters. Marcos provided a captivating overview of their historical and therapeutic significance. The concept was straightforward yet profound: thermal waters have been revered for their healing properties for thousands of years. Treatments varied from bathing and drinking to inhaling and mud applications, each tailored to specific needs. It all made so much sense. After all, water has long been celebrated as a source of wellness.
As the week progressed, I explored Northern Croatia's and Italy’s thermal towns and facilities, where modern medicine seamlessly blended with traditional practices. The idea of combining physical therapy with natural water treatments was eye-opening. Imagine if every orthopedic patient in America were prescribed a therapeutic retreat at a thermal spa rather than a regimen of pain pills. This holistic approach to wellness was both refreshing and inspiring.
My experience in Europe was nothing short of transformative. I enjoyed private thermal baths, swam in expansive thermal pools, and indulged in rejuvenating massages and mud treatments. By the end of the trip, I felt like a goddess—my skin was glowing, and my body felt fantastic. Any aches and pains I had at the beginning of the week were gone. I had thoroughly embraced the “robe life” and was eager to share this newfound bliss with everyone back home.
The journey also sparked my curiosity about the connections between European thermal traditions and Saratoga Springs. I discovered that Saratoga Springs is renowned in the U.S. for its mineral waters and was designed with influences from traditional European spa towns. The Roosevelt Baths, which opened as a medicinal facility in the 1940s, offered four classic thermal water treatments—bathing, inhalation, mud, and, of course, the waters themselves. The parallels were striking.
European spas, dating back to Roman times, were not only centers for bathing but also included areas for exercise, music, entertainment, and food. This comprehensive approach to wellness is mirrored in Saratoga Springs, where the historical commitment to water-based health treatments continues to be a cornerstone of the community.
Reflecting on my European experience, I realize that the true gift was not just the thermal waters themselves but the renewed appreciation for Saratoga Springs and its unique heritage. It’s a reminder that while we may travel far and wide, the essence of our wellness traditions often lies closer to home than we might realize.
Visiting the thermal waters of Europe has deepened my admiration for Saratoga Springs, revealing how its rich history and commitment to holistic health align with time-honored European practices. It’s a beautiful reminder that while exploring new places can be enlightening, sometimes the greatest treasures are found right in our own backyard.
Join Saratoga Spa State Park and the European Historic Thermal Towns for the celebration of Saratoga Springs’ spa heritage and history in October 2024! Click here to learn more about the International Spa Heritage Festival.
