Last updated April 4, 2025
Ready to spa smarter, not just trendier? Discover where to spa, from beautiful debuts in Asia to wellness hotspots in Africa and beyond.
Looking for the next big spa destination? Wellness travel is more exciting than ever, with emerging hotspots offering everything from tropical thalassotherapy to safari spas. Whether drawn to ancient healing traditions or ultra-modern retreats, these trending spa destinations—backed by fresh data from SpaSeekers.com—are set to make waves in the wellness world.
Vietnam leads the way with a staggering 175% surge in Google searches. Meanwhile, destinations in Africa, Eastern Europe and the Caribbean raise in popularity. For mineral-rich thermal waters, soothing hammam rituals or a serene beachfront spa retreat, these seven destinations are ones to watch
Where to Spa: Seven Up-and-Coming Wellness Destinations
Get ready to escape to the seven emerging spa destinations that promise ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.
1. Vietnam (+175% Searches)
Vietnam is having a serious wellness moment. With beautiful beaches, lush jungles and a deep-rooted spa culture, it’s no surprise that searches for Vietnamese spa retreats have skyrocketed. The country blends ancient healing traditions—think herbal baths, Vietnamese cupping therapy and energy-balancing massages—with luxurious resorts offering world-class wellness programs.
Where to Spa: Fusion Resort & Villas Da Nang
Opened in late 2024, Fusion Resort & Villas Da Nang introduces a contemporary wellness sanctuary along Vietnam’s central coast. At the heart of the resort lies the expansive Maia Spa, a space dedicated to holistic well-being.
Indulge in treatments ranging from traditional Vietnamese massages utilizing local herbs to more modern therapies. The spa features 26 treatment rooms, a spacious heated pool set within a tranquil indoor garden and wellness amenities such as infrared saunas, a yoga studio and a cutting-edge fitness center..
2. Morocco (+84% Searches)
Morocco has long been a mecca for hammam rituals, but now, it’s making waves in modern wellness. Traditional steam baths and black soap scrubs meet coastal thalassotherapy retreats, where seawater and seaweed-based treatments are the latest craze. With searches up by 84%, it’s clear that travelers are craving the beautiful sensory experience of Moroccan spa culture.
Where to Spa: Royal Mansour Casablanca
Reopened in April 2024, the Royal Mansour Casablanca has revitalized luxury and wellness in the city’s art deco district. Perched on the fourth and fifth floors of the iconic hotel, Le Spa is an expansive wellness retreat inspired by traditional Moroccan artistry.
At the core of the experience are the signature hammam rituals, a hallmark of Moroccan spa culture. These treatments take guests through a multi-step purification process, combining steam, exfoliation and essential oil infusions
Beyond its traditional offerings, Le Spa also boasts state-of-the-art treatments, including aromatic massages, hydrafacial therapies and expert reflexology sessions. Fitness enthusiasts can take advantage of a fully equipped gym and private coaching sessions.
3. Albania & Romania (tied at +83% Searches)
Romania and Albania are calling if you’re after thermal waters and off-the-radar wellness. Albania’s untamed beaches and dramatic mountains offer the ideal escape for secluded wellness retreats. At the same time, Romania’s historic thermal baths—rich in minerals and tradition—are undergoing a serious glow-up.
Where to Spa: The Marmorosch Bucharest, Autograph Collection
Opened in 2021, The Marmorosch Bucharest is heavy on historical charm. Tucked away in the heart of Bucharest, The Balance Spa is designed with gemstone-inspired tranquility and immerses guests in a setting that reflects the locally mined Romanian gems.
This wellness retreat features a hydromassage relaxation pool, a hot sauna and a steam bath. The spa’s expert wellness professionals tailor each experience to individual needs, combining modern therapeutic techniques with holistic wellness programs. For fitness enthusiasts, the facility offers a fully equipped gym with private training sessions.
5. Gambia & Zimbabwe (tied at +56% Searches)
Africa is entering the global wellness scene in a major way with Gambia and Zimbabwe topping the charts. Gambia’s laid-back coastline and Zimbabwe’s wild safari lodges prove that wellness isn’t just about spas. It’s about immersion in nature, from ocean breezes to savanna sunsets.
Where to Spa: Hyatt Regency Harare
Opened in May 2024, Hyatt Regency Harare brings a new level of luxury to Zimbabwe’s capital. At the heart of the spa is the luxurious couples treatment room, where guests can unwind together with side-by-side massages and body therapies.
The serene ambiance, enhanced by soft lighting and calming aromatherapy scents, creates the perfect space for deep relaxation. Guests can also detox and de-stress in the spa’s sauna, which offers benefits such as improved circulation, metabolism support and pain relief.
7. South Africa (+52% Searches)
South Africa has officially entered the chat as a top-tier wellness destination. With vineyard spas, safari lodges and coastal escapes, it’s no wonder spa searches here have surged. Whether you’re into vinotherapy (wine-infused skincare) or indigenous healing treatments, this country has everything from five-star retreats to eco-wellness getaways.
Where to Spa: Saxon Spa at Steyn City Hotel
Opened in October 2024, Steyn City Hotel by Saxon brings a new era of luxury and wellness to Johannesburg’s prestigious Steyn City lifestyle estate. Saxon Spa offers a personalized approach to well-being, featuring a curated selection of facials, rejuvenating massages and signature body treatments. The spa’s luxurious ambiance invites guests to step away from the city’s energy and immerse themselves in pure rejuvenation.
Snapshot Summary
Wellness travel is thriving with exciting new “where to spa” destinations. Vietnam tops the list with a 175% surge in searches, combining ancient healing and modern luxury at places like Fusion Resort & Villas Da Nang. Morocco, with its luxurious hammams and thalassotherapy, sees an 84% increase in interest. Hidden gems like Albania, Romania, Gambia, Zimbabwe and South Africa are also rising in popularity, offering unique spa experiences, thermal waters and nature-infused relaxation. These destinations promise ultimate rejuvenation in stunning, culturally rich surroundings.
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