On 15 January 2026, the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) hosted an Expert Hearing on Life Sciences and Rare Diseases as part of the work on TEN/867 – The European Life Science Strategy along with the Strategy on Research and Technology Infrastructures with a focus on the treatment of rare diseases.

We would like to express our sincere appreciation to Rapporteur Milena Angelova and President Martin Böhme, whose leadership and openness to a holistic perspective made it possible for the European Spas Association to contribute to this important process. Their willingness to consider the broader value of natural health resources created a unique opportunity to bring balneology and climate health into the European debate on life sciences.

The Expert Hearing brought together policymakers, scientists, and health stakeholders to discuss priorities for Europe’s evolving health strategies. The European Spas Association was honoured to participate, represented by Dr. Siyka Katsarova and Csilla Mezősi.

The discussion focused on the role of medical spas and climate health resorts within Europe’s future health policy. A clear message emerged: medical spas are not simply a matter of tradition or wellness tourism. They are evidence-based, physician-prescribed health infrastructures that play a meaningful role in prevention, rehabilitation, mental health support and improved quality of life — including for people living with chronic and rare diseases.

Recent advances in life sciences strongly reinforce this position. Research ranging from thermal water biochemistry to inflammation pathways and microbiome science confirms the solid scientific foundations of balneotherapy and climatotherapy. When combined with digital health tools and telemonitoring, these therapies are fully aligned with Europe’s health innovation ecosystem and modern models of integrated care.

Participants at the hearing highlighted the broader value of medical spas and climate health resorts as resource-efficient and low-impact health infrastructures. Closely linked to climate adaptation, they contribute to health resilience, healthy ageing and sustainable healthcare delivery — priorities that are increasingly central to European policy debates.

The exchange was marked by strong support from experts and representatives of several EU Member States, including Romania, Slovakia, Germany, Italy, Hungary and Bulgaria. These contributions underlined the clinical value, scientific credibility and sustainability impact of Europe’s natural health resources, and called for their greater recognition within EU life sciences and health strategies.

There was broad agreement that the integration of life sciences, digital health and nature-based therapies is not a distant ambition. It is already taking place across Europe’s medical spas and climate health resorts, demonstrating how traditional natural assets can be successfully embedded in contemporary health systems.

The European Spas Association warmly thanks the European Economic and Social Committee, as well as all participating experts and Member State representatives, for an open, constructive and forward-looking discussion. The shared support expressed during the hearing sends a strong signal: Europe’s natural health ecosystem is a strategic asset for public health, innovation and sustainability, and an opportunity that should be fully embraced within the European Life Sciences Strategy.

The Thermal Tourism Congress 2025 took place from 4 to 6 June 2025 at the renowned Ensana Thermal Margaret Island in Budapest. The event was hosted by the European Historic Thermal Towns Association (EHTTA), Budapest Spas, and UN Tourism, and powered by Ensana. The European Spas Association (ESPA)joined as a supporting partner.

Mayor’s Summit and Welcome Reception

The Congress officially opened on 4 June with the Mayor’s Summit, co-hosted by Riccardo Mortandello, EHTTA President and Mayor of Montegrotto Terme (Italy), and Isidre Pineda, EHTTA Vice President and Mayor of Caldes de Montbui (Catalonia). The opening was followed by a Welcome Reception, where Mark Hennebry, President of Ensana Health Spa Hotels, and his team welcomed delegates and set the tone for the days ahead.

Destination Forum

On 5 June, the Destination Forum featured a series of engaging panel discussions led by prominent experts in the thermal tourism sector. Key topics included the current state of the thermal tourism market, insights into consumer expectations across different segments, and strategies for defining and developing new thermal destinations.

Session “Where Is the Evidence? What Certain Market Segments Understand & Expect?”
was chaired by Ms. Csilla Mezősi, Secretary General of the European Spas Association.

The panelists included:

– Ms. Huseynli, who presented the current and future goals of research programs focused on medical and environmental subjects. She shared updates on publications related to cancer aftercare and new models of virtual reality technologies in medical spa rehabilitation.

– Dr. Ms. Ruzicska, presented the healing effects of mud treatment at Ensana destinations, including Héviz, Piešťany, and Sovata. She discussed how these natural remedies aid in the recovery of many individuals. She highlighted the various packages that Ensana offers to help reduce the pain of people suffering from chronic diseases.

– Dr. Ms. Zálesáková, who highlighted the collection of patient data at a Slovak rehabilitation center. She explained how this information is used to develop new certified programs in spa centers. These programs address issues such as spine disorders, obesity, and cancer aftercare, and are accepted by health insurance providers.

–Mr. Ali Ghamman, President, Observatoire du Tourisme Morocco (Morocco) explained about the new developments in thalasso therapy in Morocco

Alina Huseynli, Director, Institute of Spa and Balneology, Karlovy Vary (Czechia), Dr. Eva Ruzicska, Head Physician, Ensana Hungary, Dr. Janka Zálesáková, President, Slovak Spa Association (Slovakia)

Sustainability Forum

Sustainability was another key focus of the Congress, addressed during the Sustainability Forum chaired by Simone Zagrodnik, Executive Director of EHTTA. Discussions centred around the transition of thermal destinations toward actionable innovation and long-term sustainable practices.

A Vision for the Future

With the statement “Sustainable Destinations for the Future”, the Congress underscored the vital role of thermal tourism in advancing sustainability, preserving heritage, and revitalising rural regions in the post-COVID world:

»Thermal tourism is considered one of those fields of tourism which could experience the greatest growth after the end of the COVID-19 pandemic. Tourists will be looking for wellness experiences, immersing themselves in the destinations and interacting with local inhabitants. It is necessary to explore connections with other cultural and natural resources to create new and better sustainable thermal products. Thermal Tourism is a powerful tool to contribute to safeguarding the world’s thermal heritage (natural, cultural and intangible) and to provide socio-economic benefits, including the dynamisation of rural areas and the creation of stable employment and income-earning opportunities. Thermal tourism needs to be recognised as an instrument for sustainable development and as a model for other tourism sectors or products.«

On behalf of the European Travel Commission, Mr. Miguel Gallego presented inspiring figures from Europe. His presence conveys a powerful message: the European market specializes in thermal-based relaxation and healing effects, supported by high-quality infrastructure and expertise. It is essential to promote these aspects more effectively to improve their visibility in overseas markets.

Furthermore, the audience explored several innovative topics that are likely to shape the future. One of these topics is Longevity, led by Petra Bailey, Vice President of Ensana. This session focused on new approaches to enhancing lifespan and well-being. Additionally, we explored the concept of “TikTokization” and its effects on engaging with Gen Z, particularly in the context of Health Tourism, a discussion led by Ivana Kolar. These sessions offered valuable insights into emerging trends and effective communication strategies within the industry.

More information about the congress can be found on the website: https://thethermalcongress.com.
Video recordings are available on YouTube for Thursday, June 5^th and Friday, June 6^th 

Tzitzikostas emphasized that for Europe to maintain its global leadership in tourism—both in numbers and quality—DG Move’s priorities must focus on competitiveness, sustainability, and resilience. His primary goal is to build on this foundation while ensuring that the climate crisis remains a top priority in his future Strategy for Sustainable Tourism.

Key priorities include:

• Strengthening Europe’s global brand as a “unique” destination through unified marketing efforts.
• Conducting extensive consultations with stakeholders, including a youth dialogue, to shape the strategy.
• Developing a roadmap that supports the tourism sector while preserving the environment and enhancing the well-being of local communities.
• Addressing priority areas identified in the Tourism Transition Pathway.

In addition to tackling climate change, his strategy will also focus on unbalanced tourism, labor shortages, workforce training, and digital innovation, including artificial intelligence.

Responsibilities of Commissioner Apostolos Tzitzikostas:

• Transport Infrastructure: Ensuring the completion of missing Trans-European Transport Corridor segments by 2030 and reinforcing the single market for transport services.
• Tourism Development: Promoting a resilient and competitive tourism sector aligned with the EU Agenda for Tourism 2030.
• High-Speed Rail Network: Proposing an ambitious European high-speed rail network to connect EU capitals.
• Digital Ticketing & Passenger Rights: Developing a Single Digital Booking and Ticketing Regulation to allow passengers to purchase a single ticket across platforms while ensuring strong consumer protections.
• Sustainable Transport Investment: Implementing a Sustainable Transport Investment Plan to accelerate sector-wide decarbonization, focusing on electrification and emerging technologies.
• Sector-Specific Transport Strategies: Developing a new industrial maritime strategy and a comprehensive strategy for EU ports, with a focus on security and competitiveness.

Source / more information

1. Mrs Nuša Korotaj, congratulations! Terme Sveti Martin is the big winner in the “Innovative Medical SPA” category of the European Spa Association’s Innovation Awards for 2024. What do you think was the main factor that led the jury to award the program with the highest scores in the category? 

Thank you! I believe our focus on integrating holistic and medical expertise with innovative wellness practices was key to standing out. Our program uniquely combines cutting-edge therapies with natural resources, such as the healing thermal-mineral water, and an individualized, client-focused approach tailored to each guest’s wellness journey. By emphasizing sustainability and a holistic view of health, along with partnerships in the local community, we offer a spa experience that not only meets but anticipates wellness trends, rooted in authenticity and quality. This award confirms our commitment to being a forward-thinking leader in the spa industry as the First Healthness resort in Europe.

2. The awards indicate to innovators that they have the vision and that they are moving in the right direction. Will ESPA’s recognition stimulate you for new achievements, and what does the award mean to you?

This award from ESPA is a powerful affirmation of our vision, showing us that our efforts are valued at the highest level. Recognition like this is both motivating and inspiring, it energizes us to continue pioneering new wellness solutions that integrate local resources and sustainable practices. For us, this award symbolizes more than success, it’s a call to keep innovating and setting standards in the spa industry. We see it as an encouragement to push forward, expand our expertise, and elevate our guests’ wellness experiences, staying true to our mission of a health-focused, and authentic service.

3. Croatia is among the leading travel destinations in Europe. Your complex and your spa and the health programs are a benchmark in the tourism industry. Please present your opportunities in the SPA sector as a base, services, and staff? 

At Terme Sveti Martin, we offer a unique wellness experience in Croatia, designed to nurture both body and mind. Our foundation is our healing thermal water, which supports recovery and relaxation, complemented by holistic wellness services that include our Body Vitality program. We embrace Dr. Rudolf Steiner’s philosophy and the principles of biodynamics to create a balanced, health-centered environment. Our Healthness concept integrates local and healthy gastronomy, providing meals crafted from fresh, biodynamic ingredients. Together, these elements create a comprehensive approach to wellbeing that reflects our commitment to sustainable, whole-body health.

4. After Covid-19, more and more medical programs are becoming part of the tourist industry, as they allow people to combine their vacations with useful procedures for their body and for their health. How do you think medical tourism will develop in the aftermath of the world pandemic?

Post-COVID-19 medical tourism is growing as people prioritize health alongside leisure. At Terme Sveti Martin, we see this as an opportunity to offer unique programs that blend relaxation with health benefits. Our approach integrates medical and wellness services, like the Body Vitality program, thermal water therapy, and holistic treatments. We believe guests increasingly seek destinations where they can rejuvenate both physically and mentally, making comprehensive wellness a vital aspect of travel. By focusing on sustainable health practices, we aim to lead in this evolving tourism landscape, providing enriching and restorative experiences.

5. What is the potential of natural resources for the treatments?

Natural resources are at the core of our business. Our healing thermal water provides unique benefits for relaxation, recovery, and improved vitality. But we also emphasize sustainability in using these resources, meaning our practices ensure that we respect and preserve them for future generations. This includes biodynamic principles inspired by Dr. Rudolf Steiner, sustainable water usage, and eco-conscious facility management. By combining natural healing elements with responsible resource management, we create an experience that is both rejuvenating for guests and harmonious with the environment.

6. One of the biggest challenges facing the tourist industry is the need for qualified professionals. Do young people have an interest in your educational programs, with which they could succeed afterwards in the tourism industry?

We recognize the importance of nurturing young talent in tourism and wellness. Our educational programs are designed to offer hands-on experience and deep insight into wellness, sustainability, and holistic health practices. We see a strong interest from young people eager to learn about our unique approach, from biodynamic principles to sustainable hospitality and advanced wellness services. By providing mentorship and real-world training, we equip them with valuable skills, preparing them for successful careers in the tourism industry. This investment in education not only supports our industry’s future but also enriches our team with fresh perspectives and enthusiasm.

7. The annual congress of the European SPA Association in Druskininkai (Lithuania) is already in the past. We witnessed extremely interesting and useful presentations. Please rate the hosts and organizers of the event, which is a significant part of the global tourism calendar?

The European SPA Association Congress in Druskininkai was exceptional. The hosts and organizers provided an engaging and insightful experience, showcasing high standards in hospitality and event organization. Every detail, from presentations to networking opportunities, was carefully planned, fostering valuable exchanges on wellness and innovation in the spa industry. This congress undoubtedly holds a key place in the global tourism calendar, setting a benchmark for future events in our field.

8. Could you share your future plans and initiatives for Terme Sveti Martin?

Our future plans are deeply rooted in innovation and sustainability. We are committed to enhancing our wellness offerings, incorporating cutting-edge therapies and technology while staying true to our natural resources, like our healing thermal water. Our sustainability initiatives focus on reducing environmental impact through eco-friendly practices, such as water conservation, renewable energy, and waste recycling. Socially, we prioritize local community involvement and sustainable gastronomy, incorporating fresh, biodynamic ingredients. In terms of governance, we aim for transparency and ethical practices, ensuring that every step of our operations supports long-term environmental, social, and economic well-being. These initiatives are part of our ongoing mission to lead in responsible tourism while providing exceptional wellness experiences.

Interview prepared by Ruslan Yordanov

Q1. Druskininkai is the big winner in the “Innovative SPA Destination” category of the European Spa Association’s Innovation Awards for 2024. Could you briefly present the history, the idea, and the vision of the Druskininkai for a Spa destination?

The roots of Druskininkai as a resort date back to 1794 when the healing properties of its mineral water and mud were discovered and recognized.
Today, natural treasures – mineral waters, healing mud, and refreshing pine forest air-blend with modern SPA centres that offer physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.
The combination of modern technologies, centuries of spa expertise, and traditions allows us to provide top-level wellness and SPA services.
In Druskininkai, we invest in innovative technologies, ecology, and nature preservation, along with promoting a healthy lifestyle, tailored to the diverse needs of tourists.

Q2. From your perspective, what do you believe is the primary factor that led the jury to honour your destination with the innovation award?

Druskininkai is one of the main wellness and leisure destinations in our country. It boasts a long-standing wellness tradition, innovative SPA services, and unique natural resources.
We are appealing to both local and international audiences, and I believe these factors influenced the decision to award Druskininkai this prize.

Q3. What does receiving the ESPA Innovation Award mean for your team? 

This award is an important recognition of our resort, the infrastructure we’ve built, and the services we provide. It acknowledges our wellness and SPA sector. For us, it’s an encouragement to continue what we’re doing and improve on what we’ve already created.
Another key aspect is that the award has enhanced our visibility, brought international attention to Druskininkai, and opened new opportunities to promote the resort further.

Q4. What is your outlook on the future of Spa & Health tourism in Europe and in your country? Are there areas where you see potential for enhancement and innovation?

I see the future of SPA and health tourism in Europe and Lithuania as very promising.
The growing focus on health, natural resources, and sustainability drives constant growth in this sector.
There are numerous opportunities for improvement. First, technology – artificial intelligence, personalized wellness programs, and diagnostic innovations are areas that can be further integrated into service offerings.
I also see significant potential in sustainability. Eco-friendly practices, green energy, and environmentally conscious solutions not only enhance the attractiveness of health tourism but also help preserve natural resources for future generations.
Another goal of ours is active spa-related research in Lithuania.
Such studies are crucial for scientifically validating the health benefits of natural factors. They enable a comprehensive understanding of how mineral waters, healing mud, climatotherapy, and other natural resources affect the human body.
These studies would substantiate the importance and value of our natural resources internationally, attracting more tourists.

Q5. Could you share your destination’s (Druskininkai’s) future plans and initiatives?

Druskininkai aims to be a modern and sustainable wellness and SPA hub in Europe.
We are proud of what we’ve achieved and will strive to ensure that as many people as possible internationally learn about what Druskininkai offers.
We will invest in infrastructure, innovation, service improvement, and, most importantly, communication about our uniqueness and strengths.

Interview prepared by Ruslan Yordanov

1. Congratulations! Institute of Spa and Balneology in Karlovy Vary is the big winner in the Innovative Medical Spa Scientific Research category at the Innovation Awards conferred by the  European SPAS Association for 2024. Were you anticipating this award, and what do you think are the advantages that convinced the jury to distinguish your achievements?

Thank you very much! While we always hope that our work will be recognized, receiving this award was a wonderful surprise. I believe what convinced the jury was our comprehensive approach to medical spa research, combining traditional practices with cutting-edge technologies. For example, our studies on the effectiveness of Karlovy Vary’s drinking therapy and the integration of virtual reality into spa treatments demonstrate the potential of natural healing resources when supported by scientific evidence. Our dedication to innovation, sustainability, and the creation of a robust methodology for evaluating spa treatments likely played a significant role in this recognition.

2. Nowadays, people’s daily lives are subjected to high levels of stress and dynamism, and this can worsen the quality of life and cause serious health issues. What are the alternatives? What do your studies show, and could the effect of natural resources improve people’s health and reduce their stress?

Absolutely, high-stress levels are a significant challenge for modern societies. Our studies show that natural healing resources combined with a well-structured spa program, can significantly reduce stress, improve mental health, and support overall well-being. Spa environments promote relaxation, mindfulness, and connection with nature, which are critical for reducing stress levels and improving quality of life.

3. What is the importance of the research for the medical spa sector?

Research is essential to the medical spa sector because it provides scientific validation for traditional therapies and establishes their efficacy and safety. This helps build credibility, attracts new customers, and supports insurance coverage for spa treatments. Our work at the Institute of Spa and Balneology is focused on creating a standardized methodology for evaluating the effects of spa treatments on lifestyle diseases such as diabetes, liver steatosis, and female infertility. These studies enable medical spas to offer evidence-based treatments, fostering trust among healthcare providers, patients, and the general public.

4. After Covid-19, more and more medical programs are becoming part of the tourist industry, as they allow people to combine their vacations with useful procedures for their body and health. How do you think medical tourism will develop in the aftermath of the world pandemic?

The pandemic has heightened awareness of health and wellness, and medical tourism is increasingly appealing as people look for ways to combine relaxation with preventive and therapeutic care. I believe the future of medical tourism lies in integrating evidence-based treatments into spa settings, making them accessible and appealing to a broader audience. Spa cities with their rich traditions and scientifically backed therapies, will likely see increased interest. Moreover, the focus will shift toward personalized care, combining diagnostics, treatments, and lifestyle recommendations tailored to individual needs.

5. One of the biggest challenges facing the tourist industry is the need for qualified professionals. Do young people have an interest in your educational programs, with which they could succeed afterwards in the tourism industry?

Yes, there is growing interest among young people in our educational programs, especially as spa and wellness careers become more attractive. We’ve partnered with universities to offer courses in physiotherapy, balneology, and health tourism, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Students see this field as a unique opportunity to combine healthcare and hospitality, opening doors to meaningful and fulfilling careers in an expanding sector. We also emphasize practical training in spa facilities, which ensures they graduate with both theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience.

6. The awards indicate to innovators that they have the vision and they are going in the right direction. Will the ESPA’s recognition stimulate you for new achievements, and what does this award mean to you?

This award is a tremendous honour and a validation of the hard work our team has put into advancing the field of balneology. It motivates us to continue pushing boundaries, exploring new research areas, and fostering collaborations across Europe and beyond. For me personally, it is a testament to the potential of combining tradition with innovation and encourages us to strive for even greater achievements in transforming the spa sector into a leader in preventive healthcare.

7. The annual congress of the European SPAS association in Druskininkai (Lithuania) is now part of history. We witnessed some extremely interesting and useful presentations. I would like to ask you to make an assessment of the hosts and the organizers of the event, which is a significant part of the world tourism calendar?

The congress in Druskininkai was a resounding success. The hosts and organizers did a phenomenal job of creating a platform for meaningful exchanges and showcasing the best practices in the industry. The diversity of presentations—from scientific research to innovative marketing strategies—was truly inspiring. Druskininkai itself was an excellent choice, providing an ideal backdrop with its rich spa traditions and well-preserved natural landscapes. Events like this are crucial for fostering collaboration and ensuring the continuous growth and innovation of the spa and wellness sector.

Interview prepared by Ruslan Yordanov

1. For over three decades, your university has been a key factor in the region. Were you anticipating this award, and what do you think are the advantages that convinced the jury to distinguish your achievements?

Thank you! It’s an incredible honour for us at Klaipeda University to receive this prestigious award. As the only full-scale university in the western region of Lithuania – a region with a vibrant industrial and commercial base – Klaipeda University has dedicated over three decades to advancing scientific and academic excellence. Our commitment has always been to support sustainable development and growth through three core strategic directions: towards sustainable technologies, blue and green growth and a healthy sea, towards sustainable health and wellbeeing with the aim of provision of smart solutions for sustainable development of the society, its health and wellbeing, and towards society and culture on the Baltic coast. For 13 years, we have been pioneering research in medical spa sciences, blending traditional methods with cutting-edge scientific approaches. I believe the jury recognized our unique, holistic approach, which integrates the therapeutic benefits of natural resources with rigorous research to develop innovative and sustainable wellness solutions. This recognition reflects the dedication of our researchers, our commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, and our efforts to provide a range of diagnostic tools and treatment modalities backed by robust scientific evidence. We’re incredibly proud of this achievement and excited to continue advancing wellness research for the benefit of our community and beyond.

2. Nowadays, people’s daily lives are subjected to high levels of stress and dynamism, and this can worsen the quality of life and cause serious health issues. What are the alternatives? What do your studies show, and could the effect of natural resources improve people’s health and reduce their stress?

Humanity has indeed made remarkable progress over the past century, from advances in food security, housing, and education to improvements in medical care and human rights. One would think these strides would translate into higher levels of mental well-being, yet we’re facing an opposite trend. Despite these advancements, stress remains a pervasive issue, impacting both physical and mental health. It’s a factor in up to 90% of major diseases and adverse events, such as heart disease, cancer, and even suicide, with around 8 of 10 people reporting stress that affects their physical health. The World Health Organization’s Comprehensive Action Plan for Mental Health 2013-2030 highlights mental health as a cornerstone for achieving overall health, advocating for strategies to promote mental well-being and prevent mental health issues.

Our research explores the role of natural resources—such as mineral waters, therapeutic muds, and nature therapy procedures—as effective tools for enhancing both physical and mental health. Our findings confirm that a 3-day to 2-week nature-based treatment, primarily through balneotherapy and particularly beneficial during winter, and in inpatient mode, can significantly reduce stress, anxiety, depression, and fatigue. With effects lasting up to six months, these treatments improve sleep, skin health, and cardiovascular, and respiratory health. Our data show that natural therapies reduce stress by 55%, and positively impact a range of mental health issues.

These holistic treatments offer a sustainable, safe, and impactful approach to reducing stress, preventing psychoneurological disorders, and supporting rehabilitation. When combined with a balanced lifestyle, natural therapies can help address the adverse effects of modern life. This study provides valuable insights into mitigating the lasting stress effects from the COVID-19 pandemic and underscores the potential for Lithuania to become a leader in innovative spa treatments in the Baltic Sea region. By promoting health tourism and supporting economic recovery, we can make a positive impact on both individual health and the wider community.

Our research highlighted the importance of collaboration between scientists and practitioners, bringing together Klaipėda University, the National Association of Medical Spa and Rehabilitation Centers (Lithuania), the Lithuanian Resort Association, and the Ministry of Economy and Innovation of Lithuania. Without these partnerships such achievements and research advancements would not have been possible.

3. After Covid-19, more and more medical programs are becoming part of the tourist industry, as they allow people to combine their vacations with useful procedures for their bodies and health. How do you think medical tourism will develop in the aftermath of the world pandemic?

The pandemic has fundamentally changed how we perceive both travel and health. The extended health impacts, including fatigue, anxiety, and reduced physical fitness, have brought a new level of urgency to self-care and personal well-being. As people become more aware of preventive health, nature-based wellness has emerged as a societal need, especially given the pressures of an ageing population, workplace stress, and often strained healthcare systems. Nature-based wellness is increasingly valued not only as a retreat but as an essential practice for restoring balance in body, mind, and spirit.

This shift in priorities has created a significant opportunity for all spas to expand their focus, offering sustainable, nature-based wellness programs designed to support recovery and enhance overall health. By developing innovative, nature-focused routes and programs, we not only improve public health but also boost the region’s economic resilience and visibility. Cross-border collaborations could help diversify year-round nature tourism, reduce seasonality, create new business opportunities, and generate local employment.

Medical tourism, which merges wellness treatments with leisure travel, is also set to grow as people seek out vacations that go beyond relaxation to actively support their health. Lithuania has a long tradition of medical spas that integrate wellness and rehabilitation, and we see tremendous potential in this approach. By blending relaxation, recovery, and preventive care, we believe the future of medical tourism is bright. Klaipeda University has been at the forefront of research in this field, and we are excited to see Lithuania become a leading destination for health-focused tourism, offering travelers the opportunity to improve their well-being while discovering a new part of the world.

In the context of COVID-19, several Lithuanian health resorts, including Draugystė Mineral SPA, Eglės Sanatorija, SPA VILNIUS Druskininkai, UPA Medical SPA, Grand SPA Lietuva, Gradiali, and Energetikas, have created special programs to support clients recovering from COVID. They emphasize a personalized and holistic approach, which is a key strength of Lithuania’s sanatorium and resort-based treatments.

At the recent ESPA Congress, 84 participants simultaneously performed a hand mud treatment aimed at setting a record.

4. Can you tell us more about the history of the Lithuanian Spas?

In Lithuania, the healing properties of mineral waters from places like Druskininkai, Birštonas, and Smardonė have been recognized since the 13th–16th centuries. The first scientific methodologies were documented in Ignacy Fonberg’s monograph “Description of the Mineral Waters of Druskininkai” (1838), establishing a foundation for the scientific validation of these natural resources. Historically, Lithuania has played a significant role in the scientific investigation of therapeutic and experimental factors in resorts during the 20th century, with a dedicated laboratory for resort science led by Dr. V. Meška. This research center has done lot of experiments, developed methodological guidelines, and over 80 dissertations were defended.

5. One of the biggest challenges facing the tourist industry is the need for qualified professionals. Do young people have an interest in your educational programs, with which they could succeed afterwards in the tourism industry?

Yes, there is a growing interest among young people in the intersection of health, wellness, and tourism, and Klaipeda University offers specialized programs to prepare students for success in the tourism and hospitality industries. Our Recreation and Tourism program focuses on developing skills in health tourism and e-tourism. This program emphasizes both the scientific foundations of health and the latest trends in wellness tourism, providing students with practical knowledge in managing medical spa facilities. Our students are encouraged to build strong theoretical and hands-on expertise, making them highly competitive and well-prepared for the global tourism market. We also offer programs in Public Health, Healthcare management, Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Physiotherapy, Ergotherapy, and other specialized programmes within our Holistic Medicine and Rehabilitation Department, as well as Leisure sports in our Sports Department.

6. The awards indicate to innovators that they have the vision and that they are going in the right direction. Will the ESPA’s recognition stimulate you for new achievements, and what does this award mean to you?

This award is a tremendous motivation for our entire team and for Klaipeda University. It validates that we’re on the right path, advancing innovation in medical wellness and rehabilitation. It’s a deep honour that reinforces our commitment to research and development in areas like nature-based wellness, sustainable tourism, and mental health enhancement through natural resources. This recognition not only elevates our work but opens doors for collaboration with researchers globally, helping us make an even greater difference in the field.

For me personally, this award is a significant acknowledgment from the ESPA community, validating my dedication to making a difference by developing safe, effective nature-based programs that benefit individuals and society as a whole. It’s a reminder of the importance of continued innovation, and we’re excited to pursue even greater achievements in the future.

7. The annual congress of the European SPAS Association in Druskininkai (Lithuania) is now part of history. We witnessed some extremely interesting and useful presentations. I would like to ask you to make an assessment of the hosts and the organizers of the event, which is a significant part of the world tourism calendar.

The European SPAS Association congress in Druskininkai was an outstanding event. The hosts and organizers did a remarkable job of bringing together industry leaders, researchers, and professionals from all over the Europe. The presentations were not only informative but also thought-provoking, covering a wide range of topics that are crucial for the future of wellness tourism. The congress program was impressively comprehensive, covering a wide range of critical topics in the spa and wellness industry, all of which are highly relevant to current trends and future directions in health tourism. The sessions addressed diverse areas, from innovative approaches in medical wellness to economic perspectives in tourism, offering invaluable insights for both industry professionals and researchers.

Key topics “Charting New Horizons: Shaping the Future of Health Tourism” and “Perspectives of European Health Resorts,” which provided forward-looking discussions on the evolving spa industry and the challenges and opportunities it faces. Presentations on SPA Business Architecture and workforce solutions highlighted practical strategies for enhancing client comfort and staff well-being, which are essential for sustainable growth in this field. Another standout area was the emphasis on technology and education, specifically how they contribute to quality and sustainability in spa care, demonstrating the role of innovation in the industry.

Nature-based treatment modalities were thoroughly explored, with sessions on Climate-based Treatments, Spa Medicine & Prevention, and Balneology, underscoring the importance of evidence-based approaches in preventive care and rehabilitation. A particularly interesting segment was the focus on the potential role of European spas in preventing non-communicable diseases, a key area for future health impact. Additionally, there was a strong focus on specific populations, such as children, with sessions like Balneology in Children’s Health offering targeted insights and solutions for these unique wellness needs. reflecting the growing importance of mental well-being and the benefits of digital detox, particularly for children’s health. The session on Healing Forests further illustrated how natural environments can play a role in physical and mental wellness.

Overall, the hosts and organizers of this event curated a world-class program, balancing high-level discussions with practical insights. Their dedication to creating a space for knowledge-sharing and forward-thinking discussions solidifies this congress as a premier event in the global tourism calendar, fostering meaningful progress in the health and wellness sectors.

Druskininkai, with its rich history of wellness treatments, was the perfect location for such an event. I am grateful for the opportunity to participate and contribute to the discussions, and we look forward to future collaborations in this thriving field.

Interview prepared by Ruslan Yordanov.