PHOTO:
SUMMER 2026 ༠ 43
VOLCANIC HOT SPRING SOAK 
Where: Arenal Volcano/Tabacón Thermal 
Resort & Spa
The Experience: Set within a lush rainforest 
reserve at the base of Arenal Volcano, 
Tabacón is home to the only 100% naturally 
flowing thermal river in the area. Mineral-
rich thermal waters flow directly from the 
volcano, cascading through a series of pools, 
waterfalls, and shaded grottos rather than 
man-made baths. Stone pathways wind 
through dense foliage, leading to secluded 
pockets where you can soak in near solitude, 
accompanied by birdsong and the rush of 
flowing water. At the spa, volcanic mud 
treatments and open-air massages draw 
on the region’s mineral wealth, creating 
a deeply restorative ritual that feels both 
elemental and indulgent.
BAOBAB MILK BATH
Where: Shongwe Oasis Boutique Lodge, 
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
The Experience: An iconic feature of 
Zimbabwe’s landscape and cultural heritage, 
the baobab tree is known among locals as 
the tree of life for its remarkable nutritional 
and healing properties. At the Mvula Spa at 
the Shongwe Oasis Boutique Lodge, guests 
soak in baths that include baobab fruit pulp, 
seed oil, milk emulsions, or other essential 
oils. With a high antioxidant content, a 
baobab milk bath hydrates and nourishes the 
skin and feels gentle and restorative.
ONSEN HOPPING 
Where: Kinosaki Onsen, Japan
The Experience: A trip to Kinosaki Onsen, 
a town with a 1,300-year-old history and 
known for its geothermal springs, is as much 
a spiritual experience as it is a physically 
restorative one. Don a yukata or cotton 
kimono, geta sandals, and head out for a 
sotoyu meguri or onsen-hopping tour. Soak  
in the mineral-rich waters of the town’s 
seven onsens, each with its own distinct 
aesthetic and character. The waters are 
believed to improve circulation, reduce joint 
stress, aid in muscle relaxation, and even 
enhance mental well-being. 
Thermal river at 
Tabacón
Baobab fruit powder
Moto-yu hot spring source at Kinosaki Onsen
Baobab tree
PHOTOS: COURTESY TABACON THERMAL RESORT (THERMAL RIVER),  
ASTURIO CANTABRIO/OWN WORK, CC BY-SA 4.0 (ONSEN)
SUMMER 2026 ༠ 43

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