Liz Picurro, Author at Shared Adventures

5 New European Spas Worth Visiting

January 14, 2026 by Liz Picurro Leave a Comment

If you’re seeking a rejuvenating retreat with a twist, these newly opened European spas offer the perfect escape. Whether you’re looking to relax in a historic building or embrace the latest in longevity science, these five destinations are redefining what it means to unwind. Here’s a look at the latest European Spa Gems:

Corinthia Bucharest – Old World Charm on a City Break

Location: Bucharest, Romania Opened: March 2025

Nestled in a national monument building in Romania’s capital, the Corinthia Bucharest offers an intimate, boutique hotel experience with just 30 suites. The spa, housed in this Belle Epoque masterpiece, combines classic luxury with modern relaxation. Guests can enjoy a full thermal experience, including a sauna, steam baths, and an ice fountain, or indulge in a private treatment in one of the two exclusive rooms.

The spa also features a multi-sensory experience shower, enhancing your time in the relaxation lounge. With sweeping city views, a salon for hair and scalp treatments, and two on-site restaurants, the Corinthia combines old-world elegance with cutting-edge wellness. This is the spa to try if you want to add wellness into your city exploration. Experience a new culture, new site and add in a touch of relaxation.

[Photo Credit: Corinthia Grand Hotel du Boulevard Bucharest]

Nao at Minos Palace – Longevity and Personalization with a Tech Twist

Location: Crete, Greece Opened: May 2025

Located on a private peninsula with panoramic views of the Aegean Sea, Nao at Minos is not just a spa—it’s a sanctuary for longevity. This adults-only retreat blends ancient healing practices with advanced technology to deliver a holistic, evidence-based approach to wellness.

[Photo Credit: Evangelos Mpikakis via Unsplash]

Offering personalized retreats ranging from one day to two weeks, guests can indulge in a variety of treatments. Here you’ll find cryo chambers and vibroacoustic lounger rooms. Infrared saunas and vitality pools. The resort’s brain gym and water sports activities are designed to invigorate both mind and body, while its full-service wellness team ensures a tailored experience based on your unique health needs. This new spa offers a full retreat from the world where you can focus on making lasting lifestyle changes.

ZEM Wellness Clinic Altea – Mediterranean Longevity Meets Cutting-Edge Wellness

Location: Alicante, Spain Opened: January 2025

Located on Spain’s stunning Costa Blanca, ZEM is the largest wellness center in the country, offering 42 treatment rooms equipped with the latest health technology. This immersive wellness destination combines medical science, nutrition, and holistic therapies to craft personalized health programs. ZEM’s longevity focus is backed by research, providing treatments like cryotherapy and ancient techniques such as Ayurvedic massage. The spa also boasts a snow room—yes, with real snow.

Surrounded by mountains on one side and the Mediterranean on the other, guests can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and swimming between spa sessions. Whether you’re staying for a weekend or longer, ZEM provides a comprehensive, customized experience designed to rejuvenate both the body and the mind.

[Photo Credit: Svyatoslav Teslyak via Unsplash]

Skýra Retreat – A Traditional Finnish Spa Retreat in Lapland

Location: Rovaniemi, Finland Opened: December 2025

For a truly serene wellness experience, head to Finland’s luxurious new spa on the shores of Lake Norvajärvi. Built around a restored 1950s village school, Skýra Retreat brings you back to nature, offering the ultimate in relaxation and tranquility. The open-air Nordic Spa introduces guests to the Finnish tradition of “löyly” — the thermal cycle of heat, cold, and rest that resets the body’s stress response.

With just 40 guests, this exclusive retreat offers a sense of peace and connection to nature, surrounded by the breathtaking Arctic landscape. In summer, the beauty of the nearby Norvajärvi lake glistens. While in winter, the forest exudes a snowglobe magic. All year round, you can enjoy forest walks, saunas, cold plunges, meditation, and yoga. If you’re seeking ultimate quiet and deep rejuvenation, this spa promises the luxury of space and stillness.

[Photo Credit: 66 North via Unsplash]

OKU Andalusia – A Beachfront Resort with Wellness Additions

Location: Alcaidesa, Spain Opened: October 2025

OKU Andalusia brings a refreshing, barefoot luxury vibe to Spain’s Costa del Sol.

Set on a pristine beachfront, this expansive spa spans 2,000 square meters and features everything from an indoor pool and hammam to a yoga space and wellness garden. The design emphasizes relaxation, with stunning swimming pools and Balinese-inspired areas offering the perfect place to unwind.

[Photo Credit: Jorge Fernandez Salas via Unsplash]

With both adult-only and family-friendly zones, OKU is one of the few resorts that allows everyone to enjoy the spa experience. In addition to the wellness offerings, guests can take advantage of nearby golf courses, tennis courts, and sports camps. The focus here is on full-body wellness, with bespoke treatments tailored to your needs, from stress relief to fitness rejuvenation.

Whether you’re looking for personalized longevity treatments or a more traditional resort experience, these new spas offer something truly special. Ready to take your wellness journey to the next level? Let us help you plan your next escape to one of these extraordinary new European spas.

Wellness Escapes in Fewer than 7 Days

January 14, 2026 by Liz Picurro Leave a Comment

For those looking to recharge without booking a two-week vacation, there are plenty of luxurious wellness retreats close to home. Whether you’re seeking the tranquility of the desert, the invigorating embrace of the ocean, or the calming stillness of mountain air, these five destinations offer transformative wellness experiences that will leave you feeling renewed. And they are all perfect for a 5-day mini-retreat! Here some of the best wellness destinations to book when time is short but serenity is a must:

Arizona – Sun-Soaked Deserts & Tranquil Oases

Bask in the warmth of the Arizona sun, surrounded by the stunning red rock formations of Sedona or the luxury spas of Scottsdale. This desert haven blends nature, luxury, and holistic wellness in a way that feels truly rejuvenating. With over 300 days of sunshine per year, Arizona’s climate is perfect for outdoor yoga, desert sound baths, and digital detoxes.

red rock formations at sunset in sedona arizona

Relaxation comes with intentionality, whether you’re indulging in innovative spa treatments or meditating in the serene quiet of desert landscapes. Explore world-class hiking and mountain biking trails or simply relax by cool pools with no humidity to weigh you down. Arizona offers luxury, personalization, and otherworldly beauty.

[Photo Credit: Liz via Shared Adventures Travel]

Spas to Check Out:

Canyon Ranch

Mii Amo Sedona

Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa

Sanctuary Camelback Mountain Resort & Spa

California – A Personalized Wellness Wonderland for Every Style

From the rugged High Sierra mountains to yoga retreats by the ocean, California is a wellness destination with something for everyone. For those seeking the ultimate in luxury, California’s resorts offer personalized programs, cutting-edge technology, and treatments informed by the latest wellness studies. Here, you’ll enjoy celebrity-level pampering with a backdrop of nature’s splendor, from desert retreats to beachfront bliss.

Whether you prefer a rejuvenating spa day, a new age detox, or a healing wine pairing experience, California’s diverse landscapes ensure that your wellness journey feels as individual as you are. With sophisticated refinement, a wellness retreat in California promises both relaxation and adventure in perfect harmony.

[Photo Credit: chuang via Unsplash]

Spas to Check Out:

Carneros Resort and Spa

L’Auberge Del Mar

Omni La Costa Resort & Spa

Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa

Mexico – Sun, Sand & Serenity

Wake up to the sound of waves gently crashing on the shore and the sun warming your skin as you step into a luxurious beachside wellness retreat. Mexico is the place to go for natural beauty, ancient traditions, and traditional wellness practices. Resorts here combine indigenous healing methods with modern treatments, focusing on both physical and emotional health.

two massage beds in a thatch-roofed hut on the beach in Mexico

From the healing properties of the ocean and cenotes, to the calming ambiance of private beach casitas, Mexico connects you to nature while maintaining a sense of pampering. Immerse yourself in the soothing sea views, indulge in rejuvenating treatments, and embrace the tranquility that comes with a retreat so close to the water. It’s the perfect place to unwind while taking in centuries-old traditions and the natural beauty of the coast.

[Photo Credit: Ann via Shared Adventures Travel]

Spas to Check Out:

Nobu Hotel Los Cabos

One & Only Mandarina

Atelier Playa Mujeres

Rosewood Mayakoba

Costa Rica – A Green Paradise of Wellness & Adventure

Costa Rica is the ultimate destination for those who want to immerse themselves in nature while experiencing peace and adventure. Whether you’re staying in a luxury eco-lodge or a budget-friendly retreat, the focus here is always on sustainability, rejuvenation, and connecting with the lush, green landscapes that surround you.

Costa Rica’s wellness retreats offer a wide variety, including jungle adventures. As you breathe in the pure, oxygen-rich air, you’ll be enveloped in tranquility while still having opportunities to experience a bit of adrenaline. Unplug, recharge, and let Costa Rica’s natural beauty awaken your senses as you embark on a journey of inner peace and outer discovery.

[Photo Credit: Ellen & Mike via Shared Adventures – read about their Costa Rican Honeymoon here! ]

a pair of slippered feed on a wooden balcony looking at lush greenery in Costa Rica

Spas to Check Out:

El Mangroove Autograph Collection

Tabacon Thermal Resort & Spa

The Springs Resort & Spa at Arenal

Amor Arenal

Montana – Rugged Wilderness & Mindful Escapes

Montana’s wide-open spaces and rugged natural beauty create the perfect setting for a wellness retreat that’s all about slow living, serenity, and rejuvenation. Surrounded by majestic mountains, meandering rivers, and remote forests, Montana offers a rustic experience that allows you to unplug and rediscover yourself. Here, you can enjoy everything from fly fishing and horseback riding to forest meditations, yoga, and soaking in healing hot springs.

The emphasis is on physical health and mental clarity, with wellness programs designed to help you reconnect with nature and promote personal growth. The sheer grandeur of Montana’s landscapes encourages a deep sense of reflection and relaxation—perfect for a retreat focused on lowering stress and revitalizing the soul.

[Photo Credit: Natalie Nicks via Unsplash]

Spas to Check Out:

Montage Big Sky

Sage Lodge

The Ranch at Rock Creek

Triple Creek Ranch

Whether you choose the expansive deserts of Arizona, the rugged landscapes of Montana, or the lush jungles of Costa Rica, these wellness destinations provide the opportunity for true rejuvenation in settings that inspire awe and tranquility. Ready to take a break and take care of yourself? A wellness retreat is just a short flight away! Let us know when you’re ready to unplug and destress.

Where Europe is Calling you in 2026

December 18, 2025 by Liz Picurro Leave a Comment

As we look ahead to 2026, some destinations continue to shine as beloved classics, while others are emerging with new energy and once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Whether you prefer historic cities, sun-drenched coasts, or off-the-radar escapes, these destinations are perfect for your 2026 adventure.

Tried and True: Eternal Favorites That Only Get Better

The United Kingdom — Evergreen, Evolving, Effortlessly Iconic

Few places layer modern excitement over centuries of history quite like the UK. A favorite for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers, the destination is entering 2026 with renewed cultural momentum.

London has elegant new hotel openings and an even more vibrant dining scene. Along the Thames, the city is upgrading its pedestrian zones and opening riverside cafés, turning the city’s beloved waterway into a dreamy promenade of sunset strolls and alfresco sipping.

an old stone arch with a road running through it in Conwy Wales

Across the island, historic anniversaries will bring special exhibits and commemorative events, enticing travelers with deeper storytelling and rare artifacts. Scotland is set to impress with spirited folk festivals and the reopening of the Paisley Museum, which has undergone a multimillion-pound transformation into an immersive cultural experience. Meanwhile, Wales celebrates the reopening of its largest castle and the debut of the Old College cultural hub.

[Photo Credit: Ann via Shared Adventures – read about her UK adventure here!]

With continually improving transport links, exploring the UK in 2026 will be seamless, allowing travelers to glide easily from London’s buzz to the emerald quiet of Scottish lochs or the dramatic cliffs of Wales.

Spain — Slow Days, Warm Nights, Eternal Sun

Spain remains a celebration of life lived slowly and beautifully. Imagine wandering shady pedestrian streets where balconies overflow with bougainvillea, pausing at plazas alive with laughter, or settling into a flamenco show where every stomp captivates your heart.

This is the perfect destination for travelers craving unhurried luxury, with long lunches, coastal breezes, late dinners, and time to savor every detail of Spanish culture. In 2026, Spain invites you to float, not rush.

[Photo Credit: Damien & Sarah via Shared Adventures – read about their adventure to Southern Spain here!]

travel couple and the ancient ruins of Medina Azahara in Cordoba

Alternatives to the Classics: Familiar Yet Refreshingly New

Malta — A Sun-Drenched Jewel in the Mediterranean

If you love Italy but long for something quieter, smaller, and still effortlessly charming, Malta is your 2026 escape. This tiny island basks in sunshine and warm breezes nearly year-round, with beaches that look like they were painted.

[Photo Credit: Ann via Shared Adventures — read about her adventure to Malta here!]

With English as the island’s second language, it is wonderfully accessible for newer travelers, while its cuisine features delicious foods similar to what you’ll see in Sicily but with its own twist. You’ll find a feast of fresh seafood, bright citrus, and Mediterranean spices. Malta is that perfect mix of historic intrigue and seaside bliss, offering a more intimate alternative to Europe’s well-trodden shores.

Mainland Greece — The Renaissance of an Icon

For years, Greece’s islands stole the spotlight, but 2026 belongs to the mainland. Here, ancient temples glow at sunset, and villages serve warmth and hospitality.

Rediscover the richness mainland Greece has to offer. It’s a place where myth and history mingle with modern life. Travelers can wander ancient theatres, explore lively city squares, or escape to serene beaches that match the islands’ beauty but not their crowds. This is Greece at its most authentic and awe-inspiring.

[Photo Credit – Ann via Shared Adventures — read about the different parts of Mainland Greece here!]

Something You Haven’t Tried Before: Destinations on the Rise

Austria — A Refined Cultural Revival

Few places feel as effortlessly elegant as Austria. Vienna continues its reign as one of the world’s most livable cities, where grand museums, classical music, and manicured public spaces offer cultural delights.

[Photo Credit: Ann via Shared Adventures —read about her Danube river cruise here!]

Beyond the cities, the country unfolds into dramatic alpine summits and villages that look like they were designed for storybooks. With efficient public transport reaching even the tiniest towns, it’s easy to pair lakefront summer days with high-altitude adventures or winter sports. It’s stunning to see, and a perfect adventure for 2026, especially for travelers who crave art, food, mountain landscapes, and impeccable ease.

Belgium — Europe’s Unexpected Creative Capital

Belgium is transforming into a beacon of contemporary art and design. In 2026, travelers will find new openings and cultural attractions across its charming cities, particularly Brussels, which is a growing indie paradise of galleries, concept stores, and specialty coffee bars.

Cobblestone streets meet cutting-edge creativity here, making Belgium a dream for culturally curious travelers seeking something modern yet deeply European.

Slovenia — Get Here Before Everyone Else Does

Slovenia feels like a secret whispered among well-traveled insiders. With shimmering lakes, forested mountains, and villages that look like postcard illustrations. This small country offers the beauty without the crowds.

Its tourism scene is blossoming, making 2026 the perfect year to go, so that you can still say, “I visited before it was famous.” Outdoor adventurers, wellness seekers, food-and-wine lovers, and culture enthusiasts will all find something magical in Slovenia’s gentle rhythm and breathtaking nature.

[Photo Credit: Liz via Shared Adventures – read our Spotlight on Slovenia here!]

Whether you crave familiar luxury or thrilling new horizons, 2026 promises journeys that linger long after you return home. We’d love to help you design your perfect European Adventure for the new year!

2026 Itineraries Worth Planning Right Now

December 18, 2025 by Liz Picurro Leave a Comment

We believe every adventure should feel like a dream — effortless, immersive, and beautifully tailored to you. And the secret to crafting these unforgettable experiences is booking early. When you secure your trip months ahead, you unlock the very best destinations, the most charming boutique hotels, and the rare experiences that turn a vacation into a lifelong memory.

Why Booking Early Matters

Planning ahead means you can design your trip around the exact experience you’re hoping for rather than scrambling for what’s left. Early booking:

Guarantees availability in the most sought-after destinations.
Locks in the best prices.
Ensures you can stay in authentic, lovely accommodations and boutique hotels.
Gives you the luxury of time to get excited, research hidden gems, discover tiny restaurants, and savor the anticipation.

Most importantly, early planning delivers the greatest luxury of all: a perfectly crafted adventure, where every detail suits your style and every moment feels effortless.

Which Trips Most Warrant Early Planning:

Sun-Soaked Summers in the Greek Islands

June through August brings the Greek Islands to life in full technicolor. July and August are traditionally considered “peak season”, but in recent years, June and September also have crowds soaking up the good weather, swimmable seas, and buzzing energy. If you’re dreaming of that sun-soaked classic Mamma Mia vacation, summer is the time to go, and booking now is essential.

A family at a wine tasting table with views overlooking the sea in Santorini Greece

Summer is ideal for long beach days, island hopping under sapphire skies, and vibrant nightlife in the warm evenings. But ferries, hotels, and car rentals book up fast. We recommend securing your trip 4–6 months in advance (or more) for the best options and rates. With many islands offering mostly small-scale, charming accommodations, early planning is even more important for families or groups needing multiple rooms.

[Photo Credit: Alyssa & Jay via Shared Adventures —read about their Greece family Adventure here!]

Fall in the World’s Great Wine Regions

Autumn sweeps across Tuscany, Bordeaux, and Mendoza like a painting come to life. Featuring golden vineyards, crisp air, and beautiful boutique wineries that offer intimate tastings. But their charm comes with limited space, and they fill up fast.

If you want a fall wine getaway, the time to book is now so you can sip, savor, and stroll through the vines of your dreams and not just the ones that remain available.

[Photo Credit: Bucelleti Casali and Catina via Shared Adventures — read about Ann’s Tuscany adventure here!]

A Fairytale River Cruise Christmas Escape

There’s nothing quite like Europe’s Christmas Markets in November and December. And to experience these on a river cruise delivers pure serenity. Picture yourself gliding past glowing cities while enjoying seasonal events and crisp, cool weather. These unforgettable moments are in high demand, and booking early ensures you get the best cabin, the ideal route, and every activity you’ve been dreaming of.

Christmas Markets cruises are limited to just a few short weeks of the calendar. And, but their nature, space is also limited. These aren’t the giant cruises of the high seas. The best cabins on prime sailings book up more than a year in advance, so you do need to plan ahead.

[Photo Credit: Ann via Shared Adventures – read our guide to River Cruises here!]

Are you ready to plan a year of extraordinary travel? Let us know! We’re always ready to begin planning your next great adventure – the earlier the better!

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