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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.

Why Should You Take a Small Luxury Cruise?

April 11, 2023 by Liz Picurro Leave a Comment

It has been at least five or six years since I experienced an ocean cruise. Between COVID shutdowns and my new love of river cruises, I just hadn’t been tempted to get back out onto the ocean in a big ship with tons of people. To be honest, I’m still not that eager to sail away with thousands of my closest friends. But, I recently tried another ocean cruise, and it was FABULOUS.

As a top-selling advisor, I was fortunate enough to earn a Caribbean cruise on the Seabourn Ovation. The Ovation is a 690-foot, 300-suite, luxury cruise ship and we sailed from Barbados to St Maarten in March. It was my first experience on Seabourn and my first luxury cruise. I was really interested in seeing how it would be different from the other cruises I’ve taken on Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Celebrity, Princess, and Holland America.

Not surprisingly, I loved it. It was probably the most relaxing vacation that I’ve ever taken. I’m already trying to figure out how to fit another Seabourn cruise into this year’s plans. But for anyone who is wondering “what’s the big deal” about a luxury cruise, and how is it really different from a more mass-market experience, I thought I would share my thoughts about some of the key differences:

Size Matters

The Ovation is about half the size of the modern mega-ships from Royal Caribbean and NCL. So it can visit islands that the big ships can’t.

Our itinerary included St Vincent and the Grenadines, Nevis, Guadeloupe, Martinique, and other ports that you could never see from a big ship. We were typically the only cruise ship in port, and everything else in the harbor was private yachts.

The small size also means that you are never far from the restaurants, the pool, the theater, or anyplace else on the ship. The passenger decks are one hallway with balcony suites lining both sides (no inside cabins). Plus, there are no long walks back to the cabin to retrieve a forgotten item.

And the smaller number of passengers means that you’re never in line. We did not have to worry about making restaurant reservations, or whether we’d get into a show. There was no long wait to board the ship or get onto a tender.

Personal Touches

With under 600 passengers and roughly 330 crew, the Ovation has an average passenger-to-crew ratio of about 1.6 to 1. Compare that with the mega ships, which can be twice that (3.2 to 1), and you can imagine how much more personal attention each passenger gets. Crew members greeted us by name in the hallways, and remembered our drink orders. We never felt like an anonymous face in the crowd.
They also did a really good job of noticing things (and acting on them). The first couple of times that we took a shower in our cabin, we moved the bathmat from in front of the sink to in front of the shower so that we would not slip when we stepped out. The steward noticed that and a second bathmat appeared overnight. The older couple at the table next to us in the sushi restaurant was struggling to use the Seabourn app on their phone. They mentioned to the waitress that they missed having a paper newsletter placed in their cabin each evening (rather than having to look at the daily schedules on their phones). The waitress asked for their cabin number and promised that a paper newsletter would be there for them every day moving forward.

Luxury Crusie Inclusions

On Seabourn, your luxury cruise fare includes all your dining (even in the specialty restaurant). And all your drinks (aside from specialty wines by the bottle), and gratuities. Even a stocked minibar in the room (customized to your preferences). All the little things that would normally be charged to your onboard account (from lattes and cappuccinos to room service, or a bottle of champagne to enjoy on the balcony) were included in the fare. Some luxury cruise lines, like Regent, even include all of your shore excursions. It was very nice to check out at the end of the cruise without any onboard charges to pay!

Serene Vibe

This is definitely a matter of personal preference, but I loved the overall vibe on the ship. It was very adult-oriented and upscale.

The sail-away party was free-flowing champagne and singers serenading us with music from Les Miserables (not a steel drum band or a neon-colored “drink of the day” in sight). There was afternoon tea every day in the main lounge, with live piano music. And they surprised everyone with “caviar in the surf” during our beach barbecue in St Kitts.

For those who love splashier entertainment, the smaller luxury cruises may be a bit boring. While I did see a few people in the very small casino, and we did attend some shows at night, there was honestly not a lot to keep the night owls entertained.

Luxury Cruise Conclusions

My overall takeaway was that there’s a time and a place for both mass-market and luxury cruises. If I were sailing with kids or grandkids and wanted a bigger, more active ship with lots of “bells and whistles”, I would probably go back to Norwegian. And I would just book myself into The Haven to get the upscale ship-within-a-ship experience.

For an adult vacation, with my husband, I would be hard-pressed to think of anything more relaxing than what I just experienced with Seabourn.

A 50th Celebration in Paris & the Italian Riviera

October 25, 2022 by Liz Picurro Leave a Comment

Annette and Mike were looking for an incredible luxury adventure to celebrate her 50th birthday. Something classic, full of shopping, champagne, great meals, and maybe even a little beach time. We knew Paris had to be top-of-the-list! Adding a little bit of the Italian Riviera to relax and slow down created the perfect grand celebration for a milestone adventure! Here’s how their trip went:

We loved our trip and cannot thank you enough for your help in planning. Everything was so organized and exceeded our expectations!

Paris Tours

Paris was just amazing. Every sight, everything we saw in the short time we were there was amazing. Feret from Paris and Beyond Tours was more than amazing. We would never ever have been able to see as much as we did in Paris being there a short 3 days. He took us on a tour for the entire day of every possible place we would want to see. His knowledge was incredible. We learned so much history, it was incredible.

He also spent extra time with us helping me shop at Chanel and what a disaster that was. We were there on the day of the new launch for Fall collections so shopping in Paris was quite impossible the days we were there. He helped me navigate that process so well. The boat cruise was also a highlight. Ann and her partner (I forget his name) were so so amazing. They made homemade apps, and the cruise and history we saw was something out of a movie. Highly Highly recommend it. They were easy to find too as I was a bit concerned about meeting them at the correct spot.

Paris Hotel

Our hotel in Paris (Le Metropolitan) I have to say was just ok. Great people. An incredible spot, and the view was incredible. But it was very small. No amenities or concierges really. Maybe that is what you get and you pay for that view? The view was unreal. The location was great too in one of Paris’ most famous neighborhoods. (16th arrondissement- learn more about Paris neighborhoods here!) Paris btw, was also very safe and clean I have to say. Transportation was extremely easy with Ubers too when we didn’t have cars. We also just wandered at night and found local restaurants and we had the best meals. Overall it was terrific.

San Remo

We flew into Nice and had the most awesome driver meet us. We fell in love with this family-owned business. Luigi and his son Luca both drove us on subsequent days to Monte Carlo and Portofino/Santa Margherita. Hotel San Remo is a close 45 min drive from Nice airport and we arrived at an incredible room with the most amazing views of the Ligurian Sea. OMG. The hotel was beautiful and full of amenities we like — the spa, the pool, the outside bar and restaurant, and shop in the lobby for a last-minute bag to take home all my purchases lol. It has a very famous history of royalty staying there and it was beyond amazing. Our room was huge. Our day trip to Monte Carlo/Monaco was amazing. The most incredibly wealthy area of shopping, boats, restaurants, and casino I think I have ever seen. We shopped all day, and enjoyed Champagne at an outdoor Veuve Cliquot pop-up champagne spot. AMAZING. I wanted a day to shop, and Monte Carlo did not disappoint.

We then had a day at the pool and by this point in the trip we needed this so badly. The pool at the San Remo was built by a famous Italian architect and has a rich history. The lunch there and the view was amazing. It was a peaceful restful day. The hotel also suggested the best small local restaurants that we ate at the following nights and they were just amazing.

Portofino & Santa Margarita

We then did a day trip to Portofino and Santa Margarita and all I can say is wow. AMAZING. This was my 3^rd and Mike’s 4^th time in Italy and we have seen a lot of Italy including the Amalfi Coast. This compared.

Small coastal towns with beautiful colorful architecture and restaurants and shopping to die for. The place we had lunch at was amazing in Portofino OMG. La Terrazza at Belmond Splendido. Was a dream location. AMAZING.

Our driver Luigi again, was great getting us there. Gave us so much history along the way. Knew where to take us, how to get us there and tell us all the amazing things along the way. We never could have done our day trips without him. Professional and the best.

Then my bday ended with Roberta (owner of San Remo Experience). We were so moved by her. She took us off the beaten path to a very small village where we learned to make pesto and fresh pasta. Had the most wonderful tour of beautiful churches, the town square, and local osterias. She had such a beautiful heart and was so patient and kind. So knowledgeable. We loved her. We had the best day.

I honestly would not change a thing about our trip. We loved loved loved it. Thank you for all your help and guidance we couldn’t have done it without you!

Annette

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