Known for its nitrogen-laced thermal springs and curative mud firth mud deposits, Bulgaria’s long tradition of balneology and wellness travel goes back to the early Thracians, who practiced healing therapies in the warm waters. Today, wellness tourism in Bulgaria is centered on water therapies at the site of the country’s 500-plus natural springs, with body treatments that utilize natural peat, mud and honey.

When you’re ready to explore, head for the grand Kempinski Hotel Grand Arena in Bansko at the base of Pirin Mountain, where the spa experience includes use of the AlphaSphere. Designed by Sha, a Viennese artist and perception researcher, the part-art, part-futuristic chair was created to help relieve stress and restore a sense of balance by facilitating a sensory ritual that combines sound, light and movement. The concept grew out of the House of Music room in Vienna designed by Sha. Current applications include private spaces, offices, buildings of worship, spas and even in railway stations in the Netherlands.