The town was designed like a European spa with luxury hotels, parks and shops.

European spas traditionally have been linked to mineral springs and seaside bathing centers, almost always distant from big cities.

In visits to European spas, she met many writers, artists, and philanthropists.

In most instances, the formal architectural development of European spas took place in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Visitors to the European spas began to stress bathing in addition to drinking the waters.

The European spa, then, started with structures to house the drinking function - from simple fountains to pavilions to elaborate Trinkhallen.

Each European spa began offering similar cures while maintaining a certain amount of individuality.

The town soon became one of the top European spas, popular with notable figures and rulers who often returned there.

These resorts may be pleasant places to spend some time; however, they are not built around mineral springs, as are European spas.

Part of the cure at the old European spas was probably just getting away from the tensions of home.