Push through, keep hydrated, take a power nap, pack medication—the list of jet lag remedies goes on and on. But have you tried starting your trip with a little pampering? During a recent visit to Milan, I discovered the ultimate travel hack: land, check in, and head straight for a restorative spa treatment. Your body will thank you, and you’ll be ready to enjoy the rest of your adventure relaxed and refreshed. Keep reading for 7 heavenly spas for your future itineraries!
QC Spa Of Wonders | Milan and Beyond
Set inside Milan’s historic Spanish walls, QC Spa Milano turns a wellness day into a playful escape, with more than 30 experiences to explore. Wander through themed relaxation rooms, saunas and pools, book a massage or beauty ritual, and finish with an evening aperitivo in your robe. With 5-hour entry starting around 50€, there’s no shortage of ways to spend your time. QC Spa of Wonders has 7 destinations in Italy, as well as a location in Chamonix, France, and New York City, with more coming soon!
Parque Termal Botánico | Pucón, Chile
Less than 10 miles from central Pucón, Parque Termal Botánico is an easy detour toward the Caburgua area. Its ten thermal pools are set among lush vegetation, with seven open-air pools, two tucked into caves and a glass palace. It’s a lovely place to ease into the region’s forested scenery while soaking in naturally warm water. For easy access, the spa has a direct shuttle from Hotel Enjoy Pucón which can be included with your day pass.
Blue Lagoon | Grindavík, Iceland
If you’re staying in Reykjavík, make the Blue Lagoon your first stop on the way from Keflavík Airport. The spa offers a direct bus service connecting the airport and lagoon, and luggage storage lets you enjoy a soak before checking in. After trying the silica mud mask (which makes the water so blue), enjoying an in-water massage, or enjoying the sauna and steam rooms, you can refuel at Lava Restaurant with Icelandic ingredients and dramatic lava-field views.
AIRE Ancient Baths | Chicago and Beyond
AIRE Chicago makes a romantic city weekend feel extra special, and it’s just as perfect for a girls’ getaway or those returning home from an adventure. Housed in a restored factory, it offers a candlelit sequence of thermal baths, including a salt bath where you can float like you’re in the Dead Sea, pools of all temperatures, a eucalyptus steam room, and dry wooden sauna. With your bath entry, you can also choose to book a variety of relaxing massage treatments. AIRE Ancient Baths also has locations in New York, London, Copenhagen, Toronto, Barcelona, Seville, Almería and Vallromanes.
Spa Botánico | Dorado, Puerto Rico
At Dorado Beach, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, the luxurious Spa Botánico brings the island’s lush landscape into the wellness experience. Choose from treatments inspired by the island’s botanicals, or book a massage in an open-air treehouse surrounded by the sounds of nature. The property’s Purification Gardens add another peaceful stop to your retreat. The spa is an easy 35 minute drive for those staying in San Juan.
BASK Thermal Spa | Dublin, Ireland
To kick off your stay in Dublin, BASK Thermal Spa offers a calm one or two-hour reset for €60-90. Located in the heart of town at the Davenport Hotel, you can move between the swimming pools, hot tub, Himalayan salt sauna, steam cabin, and cold plunge, then unwind in the botanical relaxation lounge. It’s a thermal journey designed for taking your time.
STRAWBERRY PARK HOT SPRINGS | STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, COLORADO
After a day on the slopes—or as a soothing start before one—Strawberry Park’s natural hot pools are a restorative way to get your body ready for skiing. The steaming water makes a memorable contrast with Steamboat’s crisp winter air. From November 1 to May 1, the road requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle with winter tires, so booking a shuttle is a good option. You can also book a massage, facial, or Watsu aquatic therapy session in advance. After dark, the pools are clothing-optional and open only to adults.
YOUR TIME IS PRECIOUS, SPEND IT EXPLORING
