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These earthly wonders are rich in minerals, warm to
the touch and both legend and some recent visitors have said they heal
ailments ranging from joint pain to skin issues. Set in wondrous places
like Bali, Iceland and Turkey, these springs are well worth the
travel.The bright green and baby blue hues of the water mystify, while
the surrounding atmosphere adds to the magic. These springs are nothing
short of world wonders and you need to see them for yourself.
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The Blue Lagoon—Iceland
Easily one of the most famous attractions in all of Iceland, the baby
blue waters of the Blue Lagoon hover between 98 and 104 degrees and are
said to have a magical effect on skin. The combination of silica, algae
and minerals help exfoliate and reduce inflammation so well that there’s
actually a line of skin care products made from the water. Open
year-round, the site tends to get busy, so the staff recommends visiting
in the late afternoon if possible. |
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Arenal Hot Springs—Costa Rica
The tropical paradise of Costa Rica has been blessed with natural beauty
you need to see to believe and its hot springs are no
exception—especially those near the Arenal Volcano. The active, but
“resting” volcano lends its heat to waters at its base, which makes for
a blissful retreat for all of the senses. |
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Termas de Puritama—Chile
Set at the bottom of a canyon in the Atacama Desert, the other-worldly
landscape surrounding these hot springs will exceed your wildest dreams.
Celebrated for centuries by the local Atacama people for healing
properties, the springs are now open to visitors. |
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Szechenyi Bath—Hungary
The rich mineral water of Budapest is said to have healing powers.
Apparently the mineral springs help treat ailments ranging from joint
issues to orthopedic problems and may even help with internal
inflammations when consumed from nearby drinking wells. We can’t say for
sure whether these treatments are effective, but we can admire the
amazing view. |
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Banjar Hot Springs—Bali
The country known for restoring the body, mind and spirit is home to one
of the most beautiful hot springs around. The Banjar Hot Springs, made
up of three baths, feature dragon heads that spout spring water and lush
tropical surroundings. The water and atmosphere combine to create one of
the most serene settings anywhere.
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Chena Hot Springs—Alaska
Perhaps best known for dog sled tours and the stunning views of the
aurora borealis, Fairbanks is also home to a heavenly hot spring called
Chena. The rock lake rich in sulfur can top off at 106 degrees, making
it the perfect escape from the plummeting temperatures of winter.
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Dunton Hot Springs—Colorado
Once a ghost town left to rot in the 1800s, Dunton is now a world class
resort set among the San Juan Mountains. The six hot spring pools take
on a miraculous red color due to a combination of iron, manganese,
calcium-bicarbonate and lithium. The waters range in temperature from 85
to 106 degrees, giving guests the choice of a cool soak or a piping hot
dip.
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Orakei Korako—New Zealand
Orakei Korako, or “the place of adorning,” is home to geysers, caves,
bubbling mud pools and hot springs all coming together to create a
wonder that is truly enchanting. Just slightly out of the way, this area
is a must-visit for travelers in New Zealand and has been called the
best thermal area left in the country by Lonely Planet. |
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Thermae Bath Spa—England
Some of the most historic hot springs in the world have gotten a major
update at the Thermae Bath Spa in England. Though the infamous Roman
Baths are not open for swimming, Thermae Bath Spa uses the same water,
only treated, to give visitors access to the water that has been
appreciated by many cultures throughout history.
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Pamukkale—Turkey
Created over the course of several centuries, these layered pools of
white limestone are perched high over the city of Denizili. Often
referred to as the sacred pool, the tiers are brimming with fresh spring
water that hovers around 94 degrees.
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