Taking its concept from both the thalassothérapies and the beauty salons, the spa is first and foremost a luxurious environment. In fact, many spas have elected to be both situated in the most expensive areas of London and the top hotels or department stores: La Samaritaine, le Printemps, Les Galeries Lafayette in Paris; Harrods, Selfridges, Harvey Nichols in London.

The `over' usage of the term `Spa' may eventually lead to the collapse of this industry. Of course, defining the spa concept is therefore critical if we are to avoid opening the gates to abuse, but where do we start?
The word `SPA' is in itself a linguistic enigma. Some believe that its origin come from the Latin expression "Sanitas per Agua" - Health through water, others think that it derives from the famous Belgian Water Spa.

In order for the spas to retain its luxury image they cannot cut corners. They have to be of the highest professional standards. Once the concept spa has been defined in terms of professional integrity and transparency, the concept will become more meaningful and less vulnerable to a fad phenomenon.