World Spa Organization

🇹🇭 WSO Global Voices – Thailand
A journey through the experiences and visions of our Ambassadors around the world

Today we meet Kate Setthakorn, Ambassador of the World Spa Organization for Thailand 🇹🇭

Kate Setthakorn is Executive Managing Director and senior teacher at ITM – International Training Massage School. Certified as a Master Trainer in Thai Massage by the Thai Ministry of Labor, she is a key representative of Thai massage, wellness and Spa education. ✨

🌿 “Thailand is one of the world’s most iconic wellness destinations, known for its unique blend of hospitality, spirituality, traditional massage and holistic wellbeing.

Thai Massage is not only a technique, but a cultural heritage connected to energy balance, mindfulness and human connection. In Chiang Mai and Northern Thailand, this tradition is still preserved through schools, temples and professional training centers that continue to transmit knowledge with discipline and respect.

Another distinctive element is the Lanna wellness culture, where herbal therapies, traditional rituals, steam practices and bodywork techniques inspire authentic Spa experiences. This heritage gives Thai wellness a very recognizable identity, rooted in care, presence and harmony.

At the same time, Thailand has become a global benchmark for wellness tourism. From luxury resorts to urban Spas and retreat destinations, the country has learned how to transform traditional healing arts into professional guest experiences appreciated by visitors from all over the world.

Today, Thailand is evolving toward a new generation of wellness concepts that combine traditional Thai healing, luxury hospitality, modern Spa management and Medical Wellness. This balance between ancient knowledge and contemporary standards is one of the country’s greatest strengths.

Looking ahead, Thailand will continue to play a leading role in the global wellness industry through education, professional training, service culture and the preservation of traditional knowledge.

International collaboration is essential to keep these traditions alive, protect their authenticity and share their value with the global Spa community. A model where education becomes the bridge between culture, quality and future innovation.” ✨

🇸🇰 WSO Global Voices – Slovakia
A journey through the experiences and visions of our Ambassadors around the world

Today we meet Anna Jarinova, Ambassador of the World Spa Organization for Slovakia 🇸🇰

Anna Jarinova is a recognized leader in the Spa industry, with extensive experience in Spa management, wellness development and signature treatment concepts. Throughout her career, she has successfully led advanced Spa facilities and contributed to innovative wellness experiences, award-winning Spa design concepts and distinctive Spa treatment lines. ✨

🌿 “Slovakia is one of Europe’s hidden Spa treasures. The country has a remarkable thermal and balneological heritage, with more than 1,600 mineral springs and a strong culture of therapeutic Spa towns.

Piešťany, one of the most famous Spa destinations in Slovakia, is internationally known for its thermal mineral waters and therapeutic sulphuric mud, used in treatments focused on rehabilitation, mobility and regeneration.

But the Slovak Spa identity goes far beyond one destination. Trenčianske Teplice, Bardejov, Dudince, Bojnice and Rajecké Teplice all contribute to a rich wellness map where medical traditions, mineral waters, architecture and nature are deeply connected.

What makes Slovakia especially interesting today is the way historical Spa culture is being reinterpreted for contemporary guests. Traditional healing resources are increasingly combined with design, hospitality, signature rituals and more personalized wellness journeys.

Another distinctive element is the relationship between wellness and landscape. Mountains, forests, thermal springs and small historical towns create a calm and authentic atmosphere, very different from more commercial wellness destinations.

Looking ahead, Slovakia has the opportunity to position itself as a refined European destination where therapeutic heritage, nature and modern Spa management come together in a credible and distinctive way.

International collaboration can help strengthen this evolution, connecting local excellence with global standards while preserving the authenticity of Slovak Spa culture.” ✨

🇳🇦 WSO Global Voices – Namibia
A journey through the experiences and visions of our Ambassadors around the world

Today we meet Annemarie Gamperl, Ambassador of the World Spa Organization for Namibia 🇳🇦

Annemarie Gamperl is a wellness and beauty education professional based in Namibia, actively involved in the development of Spa and Beauty training initiatives. Through her work with the Beauty Therapy Institute in Windhoek, she contributes to professional education and the growth of the wellness industry in the region. ✨

🌿 “Namibia offers a very distinctive perspective on wellness, deeply connected to nature, silence and open landscapes. In a world increasingly dominated by speed and overstimulation, the country represents the opposite: space, stillness and reconnection.

One of the most interesting trends is the rise of nature-based wellness experiences, especially in luxury lodges and eco-retreats integrated into deserts, savannahs and wildlife reserves. These environments create opportunities for a more essential and immersive form of wellbeing.

Another important aspect is the growing attention to wellness education and professional training. As the industry develops, there is increasing interest in creating structured pathways for therapists and beauty professionals able to meet international standards.

Namibia also has strong potential in the field of wellness tourism, attracting travelers searching for transformative experiences connected to nature, sustainability and authenticity.

Looking ahead, the challenge will be to grow the industry while preserving the country’s environmental identity and cultural uniqueness.

International collaboration can play a key role in supporting this evolution and connecting local professionals with the global wellness community.” ✨

🇸🇦 WSO Global Voices – Saudi Arabia
A journey through the experiences and visions of our Ambassadors around the world

Today we meet Dr. Mohammed A. Aldar, Ambassador of the World Spa Organization for Saudi Arabia 🇸🇦

Dr. Mohammed A. Aldar is a physician and healthcare executive with more than 24 years of experience in Saudi Arabia. Founder and CEO of SAGE (Healthcare Concierge Services), he specializes in strategic healthcare management, health insurance systems and operational efficiency within the healthcare and wellness sectors. ✨

🌿 “Saudi Arabia is undergoing a remarkable transformation in the fields of wellness, healthcare and hospitality. The country is investing significantly in quality of life, preventive health and integrated wellness experiences as part of its long-term national vision.

One of the most interesting developments is the growing connection between healthcare and wellness. Medical Wellness, longevity programs and preventive health services are increasingly being integrated into luxury hospitality, clinics and lifestyle destinations.

Another key trend is the rapid expansion of wellness tourism and high-end hospitality projects. Saudi Arabia is creating new destinations designed around wellbeing, sustainability and personalized guest experiences, attracting international attention and investment.

Technology and operational excellence are also becoming fundamental pillars of the industry, helping organizations improve efficiency, patient experience and service quality.

Looking ahead, Saudi Arabia has the potential to become one of the leading hubs for Medical Wellness and luxury wellness tourism in the Middle East, combining innovation, infrastructure and strategic vision.

International collaboration will play an essential role in supporting this evolution and connecting the region with global expertise and professional standards.” ✨

🇵🇹 WSO Global Voices – Portugal
A journey through the experiences and visions of our Ambassadors around the world

Today we meet Abel Correia, Ambassador of the World Spa Organization for Portugal 🇵🇹

With over 15 years of experience in the wellness industry, Abel Correia is a Spa & Wellness professional specialized in massage therapy, Spa management and wellness training. His work focuses on creating authentic guest experiences, operational excellence and innovative wellness concepts. ✨

🌿 “Portugal is becoming one of the most attractive wellness destinations in Europe, thanks to its unique combination of climate, hospitality, coastline and lifestyle.

One of the most interesting trends is the evolution of luxury wellness resorts that integrate Spa experiences with nature, sports, longevity and holistic wellbeing. International guests are increasingly looking for authentic experiences connected to local culture and emotional wellbeing.

Another important aspect is the growing focus on wellness hospitality standards and team training. Delivering exceptional experiences today requires not only beautiful facilities, but also well-trained professionals capable of creating meaningful human connections.

Portugal is also seeing strong growth in wellness tourism connected to outdoor experiences, ocean therapies, mindfulness retreats and regenerative travel concepts.

Looking ahead, the future of the Portuguese wellness industry will likely be shaped by authenticity, sustainability and personalized guest experiences that combine relaxation, health and emotional connection.

International collaboration will continue to play a key role in supporting innovation and elevating professional standards across the global Spa community.” ✨

🇴🇲 WSO Global Voices – Oman
A journey through the experiences and visions of our Ambassadors around the world

Today we meet Vidya Rani, Ambassador of the World Spa Organization for Oman 🇴🇲

Vidya Rani is a passionate healthcare professional dedicated to promoting health, spirituality and personal transformation. Through her work, she encourages a holistic vision of wellbeing that connects physical health, inner balance and human awareness. ✨

🌿 “Oman is becoming an increasingly interesting destination for wellness and holistic tourism, thanks to its unique combination of nature, spirituality and authentic hospitality.

One of the most distinctive aspects of wellness in Oman is the strong connection between silence, desert landscapes and inner reflection. Mountains, deserts and coastal environments create ideal conditions for experiences focused on mindfulness, emotional wellbeing and deep regeneration.

Another emerging trend is the growing integration between healthcare, wellness and spirituality. More people are seeking experiences that not only improve physical wellbeing, but also help restore mental clarity and emotional balance.

Oman also has strong potential in luxury wellness tourism, particularly through resorts and retreats designed around privacy, authenticity and personalized care.

Looking ahead, the future of wellness in Oman will likely be shaped by holistic approaches that combine traditional values, modern wellness concepts and transformative experiences connected to nature and spirituality.

International collaboration can play an important role in supporting this evolution and connecting Oman with the global wellness community.” ✨

🇲🇾 WSO Global Voices – Malaysia
A journey through the experiences and visions of our Ambassadors around the world

Today we meet Dorothea Justin Moduying, Ambassador of the World Spa Organization for Malaysia 🇲🇾.

Dorothea Justin Moduying is the Managing Director of Neobayu Academy of Natural Medicine and a passionate advocate for holistic health and natural medicine. With extensive experience in rehabilitation therapies, wellness education and Spa industry development, she has also contributed to healthcare institutions, national wellness guidelines and professional training standards in Malaysia. ✨

🌿 “Malaysia is one of the most culturally diverse countries in Asia, and this diversity is reflected in its wellness industry. Malay, Chinese, Indian and indigenous traditions all contribute to creating a very rich and distinctive Spa culture.

One of the most interesting aspects of the Malaysian wellness market is the integration of traditional healing philosophies with modern hospitality and Spa management. Herbal therapies, natural medicine and holistic rituals continue to influence many wellness concepts across the country.

Malaysia is also strongly connected to the development of wellness tourism. Luxury resorts, tropical destinations and urban wellness centers are increasingly attracting international guests looking for experiences that combine relaxation, nature and cultural authenticity.

Another important trend is the growing focus on professionalization and education. As the industry evolves, there is increasing attention to training standards, therapist development and quality management, helping Malaysia strengthen its position within the international wellness landscape.

Looking ahead, the future of wellness in Malaysia will likely be shaped by sustainability, holistic health approaches and the integration of traditional Asian wellness knowledge with innovation and global standards.

International collaboration will continue to play an essential role in supporting this growth and connecting Malaysian wellness professionals with the global Spa community.” ✨

🇰🇪 WSO Global Voices – Kenya
A journey through the experiences and visions of our Ambassadors around the world

Today we meet Jean W. Kinuthia, Ambassador of the World Spa Organization for Kenya 🇰🇪.

Jean W. Kinuthia is a Kenyan aesthetician, educator and wellness entrepreneur with experience in professional skincare, aesthetic treatments and Spa education. Through her work in the beauty and wellness industry, she supports the development of professional standards, advanced skincare culture and innovation within the Kenyan market. ✨

🌿 “Kenya is experiencing a very interesting evolution in the beauty and wellness industry. In recent years, there has been significant growth in professional skincare, aesthetic clinics and Spa services, especially in urban areas such as Nairobi.

One of the most important trends is the increasing attention to results-driven skincare and advanced aesthetic treatments. Clients are becoming more informed and are looking for professional solutions focused on skin health, prevention and long-term wellbeing.

At the same time, Kenya has an extraordinary natural heritage that creates strong potential for the development of wellness tourism. Safari lodges, eco-resorts and nature-based retreats are increasingly integrating Spa and wellness experiences inspired by the local environment and African healing traditions.

Another key aspect is the rise of a new generation of professionals eager to learn, specialize and connect with international standards. Education and continuous training are becoming fundamental elements for the future of the industry.

Looking ahead, Kenya has the opportunity to position itself as one of the leading wellness destinations in Africa, combining nature, hospitality, innovation and authentic wellness experiences.

International collaboration will continue to play an important role in supporting this growth and connecting African wellness professionals with the global Spa community.” ✨

🇬🇷 WSO Global Voices – Greece
A journey through the experiences and visions of our Ambassadors around the world

Today we meet Dimitra Tsantidou, Ambassador of the World Spa Organization for Greece 🇬🇷.

Dimitra Tsantidou is a Greece-based expert in the professional beauty and wellness industry, with over 15 years of experience in the industry and 5 years as a Spa Manager and Consultant. Her work focuses on spa branding, development and training, supporting both therapists and entrepreneurs in building high-quality and sustainable Spa businesses. ✨

🌿 “Greece has one of the oldest wellness traditions in the world, deeply rooted in history, philosophy and the therapeutic use of natural resources. Today, this heritage is being reinterpreted through a modern and strategic approach to Spa and wellness.

One of the most interesting trends is the evolution of Spa concepts toward strong brand identity and positioning. In a highly competitive market, successful Spa businesses are those able to define a clear vision, consistent storytelling and a recognizable guest experience.

At the same time, Greece continues to invest in wellness tourism, integrating Spa experiences into luxury resorts, island destinations and holistic retreats. The combination of sea, climate and lifestyle creates ideal conditions for both relaxation and regeneration.

Another key element is the importance of education and team development. Well-trained therapists and managers are essential to deliver quality, consistency and long-term business success.

Looking ahead, the future of the Greek Spa industry will be shaped by the ability to combine heritage, branding and professional training, creating experiences that are both authentic and strategically positioned in the global market.

International collaboration will continue to play a key role, supporting the exchange of knowledge and the growth of the industry worldwide.” ✨

🇪🇺🌊 WSO Global Voices – European Baltic Countries
A journey through the experiences and visions of our Ambassadors around the world

Today we meet Eglė Rukšėnaitė, Ambassador of the World Spa Organization for the Baltic States 🇪🇺.

Eglė Rukšėnaitė is a leading figure in Northern European wellness hospitality, with over 20 years of experience in developing medical and Spa projects across Europe. She has contributed to the creation of large-scale hotel and Spa concepts, with a strong focus on sustainability, quality and measurable wellbeing. ✨

🌿 “The Baltic region is emerging as one of the most dynamic and promising areas in Europe for the development of wellness hospitality. Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia are building a distinctive identity that combines nature, innovation and structured wellness models.

One of the most interesting aspects is the strong connection with the environment. Forests, lakes, clean air and seasonal rhythms are not just a backdrop, but an integral part of the wellness experience. This allows the development of concepts based on slow wellness, digital detox and deep regeneration, which are increasingly sought after by international guests.

Another key trend is the evolution toward integrated wellness destinations, where hospitality, medical services and preventive health programs are designed as a single, coherent ecosystem. This approach is helping the region position itself within the growing Medical Wellness segment.

Sustainability is also a central pillar. In the Baltic countries, there is a deep cultural respect for nature, which translates into responsible Spa design, energy efficiency and conscious resource management.

A particularly interesting concept is that of subtle luxury – a refined and essential form of luxury, where the focus is on authenticity, silence, space and emotional quality rather than excess.

Looking ahead, the Baltic region has the potential to become a benchmark for a new generation of Spa and wellness projects, where measurable wellbeing outcomes, design and sustainability are fully integrated.

International collaboration will continue to play a key role, connecting this rapidly evolving region with global standards and innovation.” ✨