The Evolution of Spa

Much has already been written about the evolution of spa beginning with ancient civilisations through to the Victorian era and the fashion for taking the waters. This simple time series view of evolution tends to miss the key factors that were involved in the development of those spas, and most importantly those products, over time and space. The current industry product portfolio in broad terms includes tourism, health, sustainability and wellness, with organic change often adapting from historic products into consumer driven demand for new products that are often global. This has led to a curious mix of brands and sub brands that can all trace their roots to other traditional products that were built upon history and culture. Current demands are, in essence, dichotomous as they are both unique and global.

This chapter explains how the spa product has evolved from the historic definitions of spa and its products to a globalised industry built upon that history and culture. We explore the evolution of spa from the natural thermal spring waters discovered by the Romans to the establishment of treatments for the wealthy in beautiful spa resorts. We trace the development of the hospital system, from the medicinal properties of the waters and access to medical treatments, and how this has led to the globalisation of the health care system and a billion dollar global health tourism industry. We see how the fashionable leisure activity of the Victorians to ’take the waters’ has grown into a wellness tourism industry worth billions, and finally we discover well known organisations that have their origins in spa.