On 12 May 2026, the ESPA Thalasso Working Group will convene in Varna, Bulgaria – a distinguished Thalasso destination on the Black Sea coast.

The working group, initiated by Marlies Sobczak (ESPA Board Member, NL) and supported by Wilhelm Loth (Director, Staatsbad Norderney, DE), brings together European experts committed to strengthening the scientific foundation, visibility, and sustainable and economic development of Thalasso in Europe. The meeting is part of the HealthXchange Summit 2026, organized by European Spas Association, the Bulgarian national association BUBSPA, HTI and other partners, bringing together European spa and health tourism stakeholders. This ESPA meeting will be chaired by the newly elected President, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Siyka Katsarova.

PART I.: Thalasso Exchange  
12 May 2026 from 14.00 to 15.30 – LIVE SESSION

The Thalasso meeting will begin with a high-level expert knowledge exchange, followed by an interactive online workshop open to additional interested stakeholders from participating European countries.

The overarching theme is: “The Health of the Sea”
Recognising that the health of people and the health of marine ecosystems are inseparably connected. Thalasso: the importance for our economy and natural environment

Part I – Expert Knowledge Exchange (On-site, Varna)

Title: Science, Practice and Policy in Dialogue
The meeting will open with an expert conversation featuring leading European voices in Thalassotherapy and thermal medicine:

• Prof. Dr. Todorka Kostadinova – Medical University of Varna (Bulgaria)
• Dr. Marina Lalli – President, Federterme (Italy)
• Dr. Marie Perez Siscar – President, French Thalasso Organisation (France) On line
• Prof. Maria Lourdes Mourelle – Author and Lecturer in Thalassotherapy, University of Vigo (Spain)
• Claudia Wagner Managing Director, Fit Reisen (Germany)
• Wilhelm Loth Director Staatsbad Norderney (Germany)

The session will be structured as a moderated dialogue, encouraging interaction between health science, practice, tourism development and European cooperation.

Part II Online workshop
13 May 2026 from 14.00 to 15.30

During the online workshop, Thalasso in theory and practice will take centre stage including contributions from different countries.

Dr. Michele Antonelli, World Hydrothermal Organization (OMTh), Italy: This intervention aims to explore the impact of marine environments on human health, focusing on the physiological and psychological benefits of sea climate, air quality, and exposure to marine elements. The presentation highlights current scientific evidence on thalassotherapy, examining its role in prevention, rehabilitation, and wellbeing. It also discusses emerging research on how coastal ecosystems and marine resources can support integrative, evidence-based approaches to health promotion.

Mr. Serge Fourcade, Quality Director of the Thalazur group, France
Experience the Epigenetic Journey
Epigenetic science has shown the influence of the environment on gene expression and our overall health.It’s possible to take action at any age to preserve your health!
Our thalassotherapy centers will guide each client in improving their lifestyle using the 5 pillars of epigenetics: Mindful nutrition, personalized physical activity, stress management, a supportive social environment and the pleasure of linving. Become an Actor in Your Health!

Ms. Anja Raschke, SPA and Thalasso Coordinator at Staatsbad Nordeney, Germany:
From Concept to Impact: Thalassotherapy Best Practice at bade:haus Norderney
A review of how we have holistically integrated the concept into practical implementation within our facility: treatments, Thalasso offers, courses, sauna rituals, and lounge areas.

Attendance at the online workshop is free of charge. Please fill-out the Registration form to receive the link to the online platform.

For more information please contact: thalasso@europeanspas.eu