From 24 to 27 September 2024, the city of Druskininkai, Lithuania hosted the 28th European Spas & Balneology Congress. Held at the renowned Grand Spa Lietuva, the event brought together 220 distinguished participants from 27 countries. The congress concluded on a high note with the much-anticipated ESPA Innovation Awards and a grand gala dinner at the spectacular Snow Arena Druskininkai.
Welcoming Remarks
Lithuania’s Deputy Minister of Economy and Innovation, Karolis Zemaitis, extended a warm welcome to all participants, underscoring the country’s commitment to advancing the global wellness industry.
Addressing the congress, Thierry Dubois, President of the European Spa Association, highlighted the importance of sustainability in the health resorts development, noting that spa medicine plays a crucial role in preventive healthcare through natural remedies and rehabilitation techniques.
The congress also featured remarks from Arturas Salda, President of the National Association of Medical Spa and Rehabilitation Centers, who proudly welcomed the industry’s leaders to showcase Lithuania’s dedication to nature conservation, spa innovations, and infrastructure investment.
Druskininkai: A Model of Ecological Excellence
In his opening speech, Druskininkai’s Mayor, Ričardas Malinauskas, emphasized the resort town’s status as a shining example of environmental protection and conservation. He also welcomed esteemed guests from the United Nations World Tourism Organization and the World Health Organization, both of whom delivered compelling presentations on the importance of health tourism.
Congress Themes: Climate Healing, Children’s Health, and Beyond
Over two days, the congress focused on critical themes such as:
- Climate Change & Sustainable Resort Development
- Spa Medicine & Prevention
- Climate-Based Treatments
- Children’s Health & Healing Forests
- Future of Health Tourism
- Challenges and Opportunities in the Spa Industry
The agenda was expertly structured to provide in-depth insights from over 20 renowned speakers, including:
- Dr. Marius Dubnikovas on the future of European health tourism
- Ms. Janka Zalesakova on criteria for recognizing climatic conditions for treatment in spas
- Ms. Patricie Hlouškova on the transformative power of innovation in the spa industry
- Dr. Lolita Rapolienė on combating stress, depression, and anxiety with natural remedies
- Dr. Karin Lehmann on the groundbreaking work of Europe’s first children’s health and healing forest
Breaking Records with Mud Therapy
A record-breaking event took place during the congress—the world’s largest mud therapy procedure! Close to 100 participants from 27 countries simultaneously applied Lithuanian mud to their hands in a demonstration of the healing power of natural resources. In total, 400 liters of this therapeutic mud, extracted from Lithuania’s peatlands, was used in this historic event.
SPA-CE B2B Workshop: Bridging Industry Connections
An integral part of the congress was the SPA-CE B2B workshop, where 33 participants, including medical spas and health resorts from seven countries, presented their offerings to health and wellness travel specialists. The workshop kicked off with a “Rolling Workshop,” featuring site visits to medical spas in Birštonas and Druskininkai, followed by one-on-one B2B meetings.
Celebrating Excellence at the ESPA Innovation Awards
The congress culminated in the prestigious ESPA Innovation Awards 2024, where 8 categories recognized the most cutting-edge spa resorts, health destinations, and individuals in the industry. Held at the Snow Arena Druskininkai, the ceremony was a true celebration of innovation in the Spa industry.
Kristina Citvarienė, Director of the Lithuanian Resort Association, expressed her pride in Lithuania’s accomplishments, stating, “Our sanatoriums and spa hotels are competing on the international stage, meeting consumer demands, and embracing the latest wellness trends.”
Looking Ahead: The Future of Health Tourism
Experts at the congress emphasized that health tourism will continue to grow as people seek natural and scientifically-backed methods for restoring health. Sanatoriums and spa hotels will play an increasingly vital role in this future, as certified natural resources become more central to treatment.
Acknowledging Our Partners
The success of the European Spa & Balneology Congress, SPA-CE B2B workshop, and ESPA Innovation Awards was made possible thanks to the generous support of both local and international partners. A heartfelt thanks to Lithuanian Resorts Association, The National Association of Medical Spa and Rehabilitation Centers Lithuania, City of Druskininkai, Lithuania Travel, Lithuanian Ministry of the Economy and Innovation, Gharieni Group, Les Roches,… and everyone involved in making this event a resounding success!