A
spa is a location where mineral-rich
spring water (and sometimes
seawater) is used to give medicinal baths.
Spa towns or
spa resorts (including
hot springs resorts) typically offer various health treatments, which are also known as
balneotherapy. The belief in the curative powers of
mineral waters goes back to prehistoric times. Such practices have been popular worldwide, but are especially widespread in Europe and Japan.
Day spas are also quite popular, and offer various personal care treatments.