Soaring skyward

'#throwback #sunday #hotspring #emeraldpool #aonang #bff'

Taken in Klongthom, Krabi, Thailand. Source

The northern hemisphere is slowly becoming colder; the time of year to seek the heat of mother earth herself.

It's also time to recap the year. 
Little original content has been added to this site itself; such is life. But the regular updates besides capturing some pan-Asian soaking highlights seems gradually evolving into a number of themes:
- geothermal power development versus local soaking rights
- excessive development of hot springs
- (traditional) bathing traditions
- innovative ways of using earth heat

On other related sites, this year have seen their own developments. The Himalaya site has seen a number of original posts reworked and kept up-to-date. In this and the Thailand site have seen a number of photo posts.

Most of the effort though, has been directed to the Europe site, with a good number of original posts culminating in an overview of supposedly Europe's most natural soaks. Possibly the European Natural Soaking Society may well become the flag-bearing site. My own time for long-distance travel is very limited and the few remaining really natural soaking sites remaining in Europe may well need my fullest attention ...

Fiesta
But back on subject. The hot spring season in North (and Southeast?) Asia is under way. 

With a couple photo's of models (or sexy girls as this website believes) chinatraveltips notes:

'The 6th China Huangshan Mountain international hot spring culture festival kicked off on November 18, 2013'.

Hot spring culture = couple of female models splashing? 

Another hot spring festival, this time in Fuzhou - Lianjiang, China. Originally from China Daily (Oct. 30). What does a festival look like: 

'The guests enjoyed dance and singing performances from Russia, Spain, Taiwan and Fuzhou, and also had the opportunity to relax at the hot springs at Gui’an Xishan resort hotel after the show'.

Southeast Asia lagging in this party (thankfully?)?

Follow the leader

The Jakarta Post (Nov. 6) describes the Philippines as an example to follow in the field of geothermal power:

'Indonesia does not have to look very far to find the best way to tap geothermal energy, which potentially is located in protected, remote forests.

As Indonesia struggles to find a balance between the development of geothermal resources, forest conservation, and development, the Philippines has shown how that can be achieved.

...

Agnes de Jesus, senior vice president for environment and external relations at the Energy Development Corporation — the Philippines’ largest geothermal power producer — recalled similar challenges in 1988 when the Philippine government decided to build geothermal power plants in the middle of Mount Apo Natural Park following the El Nino weather phenomenon that reduced hydropower generation.

The plan was highly controversial at that time, de Jesus said, citing the lack of legal basis to establish plants in a conservation area, which is also an ancestral domain for indigenous people.

“We conducted scientific surveys on the site to asses the environmental impact and held many consultations with stakeholders to explain about the project,” she said. It took four years for the project to start after securing approval from indigenous people and a presidential decree that granted exploitation permits in the forested area'.

The example is thus an example in the way government appeases investors. But with energy dependency as the winner.

More news (Indonesia-investments.com, Oct 22) for potential investors in Indonesia's geothermal power. A law is actually being drawn up concerning development of geothermal energy. This would be an improvement as currently geothermal power falls under mining laws.

Harking on this is an earlier article in the Jakarta Globe (Oct. 27). It explains the intricacies of a geothermal project in Lampung, Sumatra:

'Locals should be consulted on the development of the geothermal power plant being planned near Mount Rajabasa in South Lampung regency so that it will not spark controversy and be rejected by indigenous people living in the surrounding areas, a minister has said'.

A Turkish company has shown interest in geothermal power nearby (Republika, Oct. 26). And then the Jakarta Globe also reports (Oct. 7) on Japanese investment in Indonesia's geothermal power.
So it looks like geothermal power generation in Indonesia is gathering steam.

  

Meanwhile, the typhoon which struck so devastatingly central  Philippines, also affected the Leyte geothermal  power generation. This article (interaksyon, Nov. 19) mentions 4 power stations affected with capacity potential of over 600 MW. though since, some have been reactivated.
Coincident or not CNN's money has 3 minute highlight on exactly Leyte.

Culture II 

Over the past months Thailand has seen it's great public debate: are the many Chinese tourists a bane or boon?

It starts with this little knowledge. That the Chinese authorities are aware of their abroad citizens. And how they behave (as they are at home). The Bangkok Post (Oct. 3) :

'The National Tourism Administration publicised its 64-page Guidebook for Civilised Tourism - with illustrations to accompany its list of dos and don'ts - on its website ahead of a "Golden Week" public holiday that started on Tuesday. ...
It also urged them not to occupy public toilets for long periods of time or leave footprints on the toilet seat. Nor should they urinate in swimming pools'.

!!!! Nice.

The northern Thai city of Chiang Mai sees the brunt of of the Chinese influx; it forms the backdrop to a popular tv comedy in China. But the Lanna citizens are not all happy (Bangkok Post, Oct. 13):

'But despite the large sums of money these tourists bring, many local business owners complain about the travellers' uncouth behaviour _ spitting on the street, failing to flush the toilet, pushing in and any number of messy dining habits'. 

The article rolls out a complete gambit of every possible problem the Chinese are the source of. This involves the above but also low spending culture, BYO, poor driving, extensive haggling, etc. Thankfully no reports from local hot springs ... As of yet.

Than the Bangkok Post reports on October 25 on the nearly 100% increase in tourists from China. The arguments contra are for instance that the Chinese guests hardly spend any money as most of the souvenirs available in Thailand are made in China! Inappropriate behaviour is another argument. Example provided:

'I have some first-hand experience of Chinese manners. During a stay in a Pattaya hotel, I saw a group of Chinese tourists, who were walking back from the beach, stop by the hotel's swimming pool to wash  their feet. Needless to say, this upset the swimmers'.

Well, next year will probably see another flavour: Indians? Americans? Rwandi? What will the complaints be then?

And totally different. Japan thinks that soaking is passè. The answer (Reuters, Nov. 23) to keeping towns dependent on their hot springs is to open casinos!

'In contrast to the massive resorts of Las Vegas and Singapore, aspiring hosts outside the big cities are looking to the more compact facilities of Europe as a guide.
The German spa town of Baden-Baden, which also has casinos, is serving as a model for casino proponents in two traditional hot springs towns - Atami, in Shizuoka Prefecture, and Naruto, in southwestern Japan's Tokushima Prefecture'.

Asian affairs 

• Indonesia

A blog features a beautiful look at the highlands of Bali. 
This includes a walk to Angseri hot spring. 
Source: heyitsksh.

Another find? Tinggi Raja, North Sumatra was visited by the Green family (Nov 7). Is it soakable? Possibly too hot!

Jeff Low has a photographic feature on Manggaruda, hot spring, Flores, Indonesia (Oct. 24). Here's just one of the photo's:

A good report (bygetupandleave, Sep. 11) on climbing Rinjani volcano, Lombok, Indonesia. Note the ability to take a soak after the climb near the crater rim. And the photo's:

The amazing hot spring!

• Malaysia

An extensive report (The Star, Nov. 16) to the little disturbed forests of Ulu Meda in Kedah, Malaysia:

'How can a vacation ever be complete without a trip to the hotsprings? Indeed, after a five minute boat ride upstream, Hymeir led us into a place called Sira Ayer Hangat, which literally meant Hot Water Salt Lick. He guided us into a shallow stream, pointing out safe spots to step as certain spots had hot scalding water! Downstream, the hot spring water mixed with the cooler river to created a perfectly warm swimming area.

On a sandbar in the middle of the stream, steam rose from the ground. A wispy white substance coated the areas where hot water from a hidden spring wept straight from the sands into the surrounding stream'. 

Sira Ayer Hangat literally means ‘Hot Water Salt Lick’. It’s frequented by wildlife.

It continues:

'... once, a visiting government official saw the area and thought of turning it into a commercialised spa. Fortunately, this didn’t come to pass as it would not only have damaged the environment, but also would have driven the animals away. Besides, there were hot springs nearer towns outside the Ulu Muda conservation area'.

Hurrah!

Lest some forget, the Borneo Post (Nov. 17) mentions the existence of a hot spring in it's own backyard, Panchor Dayak:

'There is one in our own backyard – Panchor Hot Spring, nestled in lush secondary jungle at Kampung Panchor Dayak, Mile 27, along the old Kuching-Serian Road.
Here, one can enjoy the invigorating effects of a natural hot spring without having to travel thousands of miles or paying a huge sum for it.
...

In terms of facilities, Panchor Hot Spring offers quite the minimaL. There is a main wooden structure housing a canteen, a sitting place, shower rooms as well as toilets. From here, a wooden plank walk leads to the pools with a natural ambiance.

What can be easily overlooked is perhaps is the totally green jungle backdrop where tropical animals and birds may sometimes be spotted.

During a recent visit, I spotted two different types of birds — a green-whitish one which winged down a tree but soared skyward almost instantly in one swift motion, and a blue-greyish pair which fluttered among some fallen branches towards the bushes, lingering long enough for their pictures to be taken'.

And then stated matter of factly:

'Fully aware of Panchor Hot Spring’s immense tourism potential, the government already has plans to develop the place into something bigger and better — with piped water and electricity, villas, hostels and barbecue facilities.

According to Jeffrey (Layut), work has already begun.

“You can see the trees have been felled to give way for the villas and other facilities. We hope the upgrading can be completed as soon as possible so that this place will be better equipped to draw more visitors,” he said'.

Government thinking: sod nature, bigger = better!

• Philippines

Maquinit may sit high in Southeast Asia's popularity polls, but this visitor laments:

'The lack of shower is what prompted out friend Rupert that it is expensive, especially because no maintenance effort is needed for the water to fill thr pools. "Ni di sila nagbabayad ng NAWASA" added Rupert'.

• Singapore

In Singapore off the beaten track? Ourbigexpatadventure reports on Singapores only hot spring source:

'It was an interesting and quirky adventure!'

Sembawang hot spring, Singapore. Enjoy? From instagram jeromekg

• Vietnam

Vietnamplus lists the big 7 hot springs of northern Vietnam. In no particular following: Kim Boi, Than Thuy, My Lam, Ban Moong, Kenh Ga, Quang Hanh and Tien Lang.

Further afield

Bhutan. The hot springs of Dunmang are deteriorating, so reports BBS (Oct. 25). The report comes complete with a video of this beautiful hot spring. One problem: there is only 1 toilet. It apparently sees more and more visitors without any facilities available.

An upscale opening, the Angsana spa Tengchong in western Yunnan, China (Sep. 27).

A report from the end of last year. Chinese officials in the region of Inner Mongolia tired of the ever increasing amount of officials coming. So reports wantchinadaily:

'The end of the year is a peak time for officials to make inspection tours. A deputy head of a county in Inner Mongolia famous for its hot springs said he received 10 groups of guests in a single day. As a visit to the baths is considered a sine qua non, a local official paid eight visits to the baths with different groups. He was so exhausted that he decided to wait in the bath without getting up and putting on his clothes as he received the last groups for the day day'.

Slightly dated, even Lonely Planet is picking up the vibe from natural soaks. It has an article named Hot spring hunting in the Southwest USA. Most mentioned though are more upmarket soaks, though apparently Verde hot springs is known for it's remoteness and alfresco bathing! Yeah.

#bali #kintamani #batur #hotspring #lake #mountain

Enjoying Bali, source.

Still the same?

 Poring hot spring, Sabah, Malaysia. Instagrammed by krrsabah:

#poringhotspring #ranau #sabah

Change

A few years have passed since the last listing of popular Southeast Asian hot springs. So maybe a new overview is required.

During the past years, some soaks have gained in popularity as tourism in the region booms and shifts. Others soaks have seen a wane in popularity.

But trends in publicizing soaks and putting them on the net have also changed.

So making a list will result in changes and surprises.

Sharing

I have tried to include more current data than in the past, limiting for instance google searches to the past year. Including instagram helps.

But despite all the changes, as you can see below the hot springs of Poring remains top as was the case in 2 and 4 years back. Ergo, it must be very popular. Or so bad that everybody wants to share it!

1.   Poring           (Sabah, Malaysia) 98 pt (positions in 2011-2009: 1st-1st)

2.   Ardent           (Philippines) 80 pt (3-3)

3.   Maquinit        (Philippines) 78 pt (x-6)

4.   Sari Ater        (Java, Indonesia) 64 pt (x-x)

5.   Thap Ba         (Vietnam) 61 pt (7-x)

6.   Banjar           (Bali, Indonesia) 55 pt (4-5)

7.   Sungai Klah   (Malaysia) 50 pt (6-2)

8.   Pai                (Thailand) 43 pt (-)

9.   Puning           (Philippines) 36 (-)

      Binh Chau      (Vietnam) 36 (10-x)

Other noteworthy changes: Fang (Thailand) has disappeared all together despite a high ranking in previous lists, while Asin (Philippines) has also dropped away (from 5th) and would now be 11th. 

Odd is also that while using the same method Sankampaeng was recently ranked no. 1 in Thailand, the no. 2 in that list now ends higher, which is due to comparative ranking.

Pop

Which brings us to bias. The above of course is not free of bias.

For instance, shorter names are favoured over longer names. 

As previously stated in the previous  polls, language plays a large role as nearly all but Filipino citizens publish in their own language (English) so it´s quite natural to see hot springs from the Philippines doing well. Compare with Thap Ba which sees probably more tourists but less references as most of the tourists are Russians. 
There is a better overview of possible bias from the 2009 listing.

But despite this I do believe it is a fair representation. Of internet popularity.

Note though that it only is a list of popular places. Poring for instance despite it´s mentions is not well reviewed. I looked up all the reviews of the above soaks and note that based on quality, Thap Ba and Sankampaeng are ranked with 4.5* in Tripadvisor, while Poring and Puning have 3,5*. Maquinit, Ardent, Sari Ater, Banjar, Pai and Asin all have 4*.

So it´s more a potential list of hot spring areas to visit. Not necessarily a list of hot springs to visit.

Campagnal hot spring, Leyte island, Philippines. Leyte was in the eye on the super typhoon.

Odd caption to the photo (source)with buildings:

'The rugged and exotic beauty of sitio Campagal hot spring in Brgy Robas remains undefiled'.

Sources of comparison:

instagram, google search (past 12 months), google blog search (past 12 moths), bing, flickr, tripadvisor & youtube

Publications: Cathedrals of the Flesh

Alexia Brue's 2003 first touch at a fully fledged book takes us by the hand and explores her own introduction to Europe's public bathing culture. Public, intimate (or not) she gives us a good insight into why we (used to?) value collective bathing.

Initially, Alexia sets out on an adventure to literally soak up what the makings are of a perfect setting for a bathhouse which may be located in New York city. Starting off in a Parisian steam bath, she becomes accustomed to and acquainted with the Istanbuli hammam, the Russian banya (both traditional and upmarket) and the Finnish love of everything sauna. The insights into their bathing folklore are complimented by a thoroughly readable journey into each countries culture and an increasingly in-depth revelation into the author herself as she jots down what would make her search for the holy grail perfect.

Interspersed by a personal historical account into Greek and Roman bathing, the journey ends in the soakers heaven of Japan, where she visits the tradional sento as well as what she hoped for: the most paradise-like onsen. 

On a hopeful note we take notice of her talk with one of New York's bathhouse owners. Will she have accomplished the mission she set out on?

It comes as no surprise that the author's journey has evolved and Alexia Brue is now regarded as an expert on wellness issues. Together with a colleague journalist she has been running the Well+Good NYC website ("Your healthiest relationship"), a premier source of info (million hits per month!) on wellness for New Yorkers.

A must read for soakers? This would be a giving a bit too much importance to this book, but all-in-all it's very easy to read, enjoyable and certainly entices readers to jump in and enjoy a thorough public bath. Forget the everyday worries and just immerse oneself. 

The book includes a resource guide which acts as an intro to entice followers of the flesh cathedrals, be they seekers of man-(or better said woman-)made public baths or naturally occurring hot springs.

Readers reviews have sought to tend to award five stars, as I would. Amazon readers give it 4.4 stars, Goodreads comes to 3.72 stars, while Google's books comes to just a shade short of 4 stars.

Hotsprung has her own review in which she emphasizes the insight she gets as well as the sense of adventure Cathedrals of the Flesh evokes.

Soakers worldwide should note that this book does not look into hot springs exclusively, but more into heat, water and bathing. 

And as would be expected there are no Southeast Asian connections ...

Reference:

Brue, A. (2003) Cathedrals of the Flesh - My search for the perfect bath. Bloomsbury, London, United Kingdom.

Development blends

Norm

What's always intrigued me as how bathing customs differ, how they evolve and how current culture seeks to cope with the differences and the outer world trying to influence local culture. 

However, with the lessening of cultural and social diversions, traditional bathing cultures are increasingly threatened. 

Unfortunately the Southeast Asian bathing culture is a modernist one which with elitist overtones has regarded au-naturel bathing as backward and laughable. However the last laughs I believe are of those fully clad snobs who must feel tremendously uncomfortable. Or not?

But internationally, in the bathing custom discourse it are the anglo-saxon wannabe star cultures which are pushing their agenda however unknown. 
For instance, many a blog entry on Japanese onsen reflect on the backwardsness of naked single-sex bathing. 

Which raises the question why travel to a foreign culture at all, if you disapprove?
Others express fear of the unknown, but find out that it's actually a pleasure and become life-long converts. Southeast Asians, while radically opposed to disrobing, will do everything to blend in, however opposite it is of their own culture (remember in Singapore private nudity is even forbidden). Alas, their voices are often too meek in the current day internet overload. The same goes for us Europeans who have less binds either way.

Back in July I visited two hot springs, one in Aachen (Germany), one in Holland (Thermae 2000). In Holland it was a costume free day, which 99% happily enjoyed, whereas in Germany a beautiful part of the springs was suit-free. Not many have qualms about the lack of dress. But that said, overseas guests are at minimum and when researching internet the English language responses are often filled guilt / shame ridden. 
To me simple nakedness is purposeless (we are bathing after all), but it leads to increased self-esteem, self-confidence and acceptance of nature.

Sheepish

Here are some recent examples of au-naturel bathing experiences by you. First by Irreplaceable, from Malaysia (July 14) enjoying an experience in Korea:

'Yeah, the very first time getting naked in public with two of my girlfriends. If you never have such experience before, this might sound so awkward for you, am I right?

In fact, I had been struggling for so long whether shall I try this nude hot spring. For me, it is just so embarrassing to appear in front of strangers without wearing a single piece of cloth. But after all, I decided to try it. How brave am I right. Bravo. To make you clear, it is a hot spring only for girls. Not mix one okay.

...

Miss that wonderful hot spring soaking moment with my girls. Wish to visit other nude hot springs of another country next time LOLOL. Don't think I am crazy okay I am not. Come on. Don't be shy. You all must try it if you all have a chance. That gonna be a very unforgettable memories I promise. :D 

Peace'.

Peace to you too. Then Big on trips from Singapore in Japan (July 21):

'I started out a bit self-conscious and sheepish about the whole thing. But having the husband in the same bath made me feel more comfortable. It helps that the baths are also sprawling so you can easily stake out your own little nook where no one can see you. After a while, you just get used to seeing everyone’s bits and realise that man or woman, it’s just a different anatomy so no point getting the knickers in a twist about it. Plus if you go as a couple, it is nice to be able to enjoy the onsen together'.

There is the odd exception and some are written with great wit. Take Joann from the USA in Japan (August 12):

'So it was that Diane and I, two fairly well-endowed women, stepped outside, naked as the day we were born, whereupon we made three crucial discoveries: we were the only Gaijin (foreigners) at the spa, the resort was co-ed, and the two of us were missing one small, but essential item. Every Japanese person we encountered, and 99.9 percent of them were of the male persuasion, was holding a small hand towel the size of a wash cloth, over his genitals.

Diane and I were not just naked. We were beyond naked. We were Über-naked.

Had we missed the warning sign in the locker room: “Please remember, don’t shame Buddha, all of the Shinto deities and the memory of hundreds of generations of your ancestors by stepping outside without your little washcloth?” Or perhaps there was no sign because the Japanese are born holding these tiny cloths as they exit the birth canal?

Desperate to cover ourselves, Diane and I crisscrossed our arms over our bodies. With our hands hovering ineffectively over our nether regions, we darted to the nearest hot spring for cover. The dark gray, mineral-laden water conveniently covered our nudity, and thankfully, we were alone.

But not for long.

Apparently, word of the two, too-naked, big-breasted American women, had spread like wildfire throughout the spa. Suddenly, dozens of extraordinarily friendly men, also unclothed, but of course with the obligatory washcloths, joined us in our pool. I did my best to fend off the many overtures from these interlopers who floated dangerously into my personal space, trying to chat us up. The Japanese love nothing more than to practice English, but the last thing I wanted to do was encourage naked fraternizing.

After a few minutes, I noticed that I had begun sweating profusely from the intense heat. After fifteen minutes, I felt nauseous.

I knew that I had to get out of this bubbling caldron, but escaping would have required climbing up a three-foot ladder to exit the pool, thereby providing a front-row view of that to which only gynecologists and lovers should be privy. My mind, which was now melting along with the rest of me, struggled to reason that I was thousands of miles from home, and the chance that I would ever see any of these men again was infinitesimally small. But I couldn’t bear the thought of baring my undercarriage, free of charge, to this rapt group of strangers. Diane agreed, so the two of us waited it out with a steely determination that would have impressed any prisoner of war.

One by one, our fan club left, and finally, we were alone, once again. We quickly made our getaway. Like two boiled lobsters plucked from a pot, steam rose off our crimson bodies, as we climbed out and once again scurried for cover to the nearest pool.

And so it went.

We spent the rest of the afternoon sprinting from one hot spring to another until we came to the last one of the day. Divided into three sections, each about the length and width of a bathtub, Diane and I chose adjacent pools. As we stretched out, we discovered that the water was only a few inches deep, so our entire torsos were completely exposed to the air.

We sat up and struggled to reposition ourselves to find some cover. A moment later, a man in a deep pool next to ours who had witnessed our thrashing, floated over to us, stuck his foot out of the water and pointed at it. It took only a moment to realize that Diane and I were lying in the footbaths—a fitting end, I suppose, to an altogether much too naked and humiliating day'.

In an overview of current day nudism in China (which 'reveals' a few hot springs where nudity may or might have been common practice). From nakedhistorian (August 8):

'Whilst there is very little nudism amongst the dominant Han Chinese, there is more tradition of nudist activity amongst China’s minority groups, especially down south.
...
In western Yunnan, the De’ang tribe bathe in the Imperial Hot Springs whose waters are rich with coal and salt extracts. We’re not entirely sure how they’d feel about foreigners stripping down and hopping in alongside them, but if you ask nicely, the chances are they’d clear a space.
The Mosuo minority believe in the disease curing properties of their local water, so they frequently bathe naked. During the Cultural Revolution, the government built walls across their pools to segregate men and women, but the Mosuo tore them down soon after. The pools were opened to tourists in the 1990s.
A little further north in Sichuan Province, nudism seems to be all the rage. Chongqing Girls Nude Bathing Area;sounds more like the title of a dodgy DVD, but it’s actually an area set aside for women in the Ba’nan District’s tranquil East Spring Village. The pool has been in use since the Ming Dynasty, and its water is said to cure blindness. If you fancy a dip, you’ll be pleased to know that it’s open to tourists. Female ones'.

A Thai in Japan (Nation, August 28): 

'Most of the skiers in Niseko spend their off-piste time in the Onsen. The Green Leaf Onsen stands out as one of the most beautiful natural rock pools in Niseko. The Onsen has separate indoor and outdoor pools for men and women with the water source originating from mineral spring.
But stripping off my clothes, soaking in hot spring with other men and watching huge flakes of snow swirling down, doesn't turn me on. I decide instead to occupy a bar stool and exchange words of wisdom with the bartender though I do agree to take a side-trip to Otaru and Yoichi'.

That's despite visiting onsen is no. 2 of Japan's Top 5 (Lonely Planet, Sept 8).

Blending in. In Uganda I believe (source).

Geo-spirit

Thinkgeoenergy (July 12) has an article by Jon Cheetham who can not understand why Indonesia is not embracing geothermal energy more whole heartedly:

'As my proof, take a look at PT Supreme Energy, who just received approval from the Rajabasa indigenous people to explore for geothermal resources in Lampung. What it took was frank information and compromise from Supreme Energy chief Triharyo Indrawan Susilo, who informed the Rajabasa of the minimal environmental damage to be feared from geothermal exploration, and promised to plant double the amount of trees that have to be cut down. How is that for a truly admirable renewable spirit? That was all it took; now Bp. Triharyo gets to go ahead with his project hoping to make himself and his employees successful, and the Rajabasa have nothing to fear for their environment. Everyone wins. The country wins. This generosity and openness is the attitude that is needed'.

In New Zealand they fail to understand why the Chinese would want to invest in geothermal energy in the already saturated energy market in NZ (Thinkgeoenergy, July 1). But also at stake is New Zealand nationalism:

'Overseas Investments Office, so the news, has just approved the deal, but it immediately receives criticism. ”Power is a critical component of any economy,” says New Zealand First leader Winston Peters. “To give away its ownership and profits to a foreign interest is not capable of being explained away.”'

In Italy opposition is growing towards the proposed Amiata Bagnore 4  geothermal plant. From Smartplanet (August 8): 

'He [Andrea Borgia, a geologist and volcanologist who works in the Italian High Commission for Environmental Impact Assessment] opposes the new plant because, he says, geothermal fields have already dropped Amiata’s water table, increasing the concentration of naturally occurring arsenic. What’s more, Borgia says that Enel is releasing carbon dioxide and other pollutants such as hydrogen sulfide, ammonia and mercury into the air — and that it doesn’t have to. (Of the geothermal fluid extracted at the plant, only a quarter is re-injected into the reservoir, and the rest, containing these pollutants, is released in the form of vapor.)'. 

All-in-all it's a very complex issue and it seems both sides have the truth on their side. However: 

'She [Adele Manzella, a geophysicist and researcher at the National Research Council] believes the controversy stems from the residents’ lack of trust in Enel and local policy: They did not solve air pollution problems in the Amiata area for a long time, creating bad publicity that is fueling suspicions about the drinking water.

Unfortunately, Manzells says, there is no conclusive evidence as to whether the geothermal work is affecting the level of the drinking water, and a study will take years: “It is a matter of debate, and people there do not know what to believe. It is left to the opinions of the people or scientists or other experts having one interest one way or another.”'

Then we already discussed dual use systems, as proposed for in the Philippines (source). Thinkgeoenergy has an article (August 12) on the Icelandic success of dual use. But that's not all: 

'While the Blue Lagoon remains the top tourist spot in Iceland, the power plants – all can be visited – are among the most visited tourist attractions in the country'.

Malaysia hopes to get it's first own geothermal energy as of 2016 (Thinkgeoenergy, August 8): 

'The power plant at Apas Kiri, would be the first renewable and sustainable project of its kind in Malaysia, with power to be sold to the Sabah Electricity Sdn Bhd (SESB) grid. It was originally scheduled for completion in 2015'.

Apex
Ever heard of the Global Spa and Wellness Summit? Well, the upcoming 2013 meeting slated for early October 2013 set for New Delhi hopes to attract hot spring operators and leaders to discuss soaking issues: 

'According to co-organizer Charles Davidson, from Peninsula Hot Springs in Australia, the Forum will include presentations and open discussions on how the best hot springs operators in the world’s most competitive markets build profitable spa, bathing and accommodation businesses; which evidence-based studies in hot springs bathing practices provide proof of the health benefits of hot springs; and the various ways cultures utilize natural hot water for health, wellbeing and community happiness.

Participants will also jointly explore ways the global hot springs industry can work together in marketing, research and development and on philanthropy projects to bring hot springs bathing facilities to communities in third-world countries'.

The press release certainly pushes the right buttons and this initiative is to be applauded. What I have my doubts about, is the insistence on commercialism. Little is done to preserve, protect and allow enjoying hot springs so how hob-nobbing with the rich will enhance this remains a question mark.

More in depth soaking enthusiasts will be looking at:

'On the table for discussion:

• How do the best hot springs operators build profitable businesses? 
• What are the key evidence-based studies supporting hot springs bathing practices? How can they be promoted better? 
• How do global cultures use natural hot water for health, wellbeing, and community happiness? 
• How can the global hot springs industry better work together in marketing, research and development? 
• Are there joint philanthropy projects that can bring hot spring facilities to third-world communities? '

Tellingly there is yet to be a sponsor for this part of the programme .... 

Especially in China, hot spring development is taking on a commercial dimension unbeknown to traditional soakers. Take the doughnut hotel (Yahoo, July 20):

'It's a hotel Homer Simpson could love.

China's Sheraton Huzhou Hot Spring Resort's deliciously shaped oval design looks like a giant doughnut. The building, dubbed the "horseshoe hotel," opens next month in the town by the same name, Huzhou'. 

Though it names itself a hot spring hotel it's own web site is conspicuously silent on what it entails.

More high end development pouring in. Banyan Tree Chongqing is receiving it's first guests (Breakingtravelnews, September 6): 

'Nestled within the new Banyan Tree Chongqing Beibei, the first international hot spring resort in Chongqing, the resort embraces the natural healing waters of the North Hot Springs'. 

Dieng plateau, Java, Indonesia. From My Journey keeps Inspiring.

Mostly unhopeful dreams 

• Brunei

Brunei is eyeing yet again the development of a remaining hot spring. Read what the article (mysarawak, July 30) thinks is the good news: 

'Second Minister of Resource Planning and Environment Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan said lessons could be learnt from the Republic of Czechoslovakia, which managed to turn a valley with a hot spring into a renowned medical tourism attraction.

“Tourism is a money spinning industry, and it can provide employment and economic spinoffs. Czechoslovakians used their creativity and innovation on the valley, which now contributes to their national coffers,” he said at a Sarawak Energy Berhad (SEB) gathering in Hotel Seri Malaysia to present Raya goodies to orphans, the disabled (OKUs), and single mothers over the weekend.

Awang Tengah said Lawas had great attractions in the Merarap hot spring and Mount Murud, the highest mountain in Sarawak'.

'Indigosix outing! Yipeeee ...'

West Bali, Indonesia: Menjangan hot springs. Source: nininathania

• Laos

Hot springs are increasingly becoming popular says the Vientiane Times (July 19). But is this the start of the end?

'The house's rooms will be built as many visitors like to bathe naked in the spring; however, visitors are required to bring a large towel to cover themselves when they emerge from the water. Bathers say they feel healthy after they finish and walk out of the bathrooms at the hot spring.
Since the bath opened last year, visitors there are mostly Lao people. Mr Phouvanh added about 40 foreign tourists per month have visited the hot spring to relax in the refreshing water. The cost to use the bath is 5,000 kip for a foreigner and 2,000 kip for a Lao person.
The department has received funding from the state to build a bathhouse and a souvenir shop at the site'.

It's bye-bye to this?

'For many local people, the spring is even better than a regular hot shower – while they have electricity installed in their homes, most still head to the springs for the traditional experience.
The local community often prefers to bathe communally in the hot spring before turning in for the night and again before breakfast'.

Then on the 25th of August, the same source mentions finding a new hot spring:

'Zone Administrative Office Head, Mr Somphone Southam, said a group from his office visited the hot spring at Poungloc village earlier last week on an unofficial trip, and discovered the spring was the biggest any of them had seen in the province.
“The spring boiled in the middle of a stream in the centre of the village; it bubbles hot water to a height of about 40cm while the stream covers the entire area,” he said. Mr Somphone said a local official had told him the village was located near an ancient volcano, which explained the hot spring activity'. 

Obviously, authorities want to develop the site ....

Viengthong hot spring, as it is.

• Malaysia. 

Another nail in the coffin for a yet to be well visited hot spring? Metro online broadcast Malaysia (21 August ) reports: 

'AMONG hot springs in Hulu Selangor, two are already well known — Kerling and the Hulu Tamu hot spring in Ulu Yam. 

However, a third hot spring is begging for some attention. It is located in Jalan Ariff 12, Taman Ariff, Kuala Kubu Baru.

Although the hot spring was discovered almost 10 years ago, it remains a well-kept secret among locals.

...

Last year, the Hulu Selangor District Council (MDHS) beautified the area by covering the dirt road to the area with gravel, building a small concrete pathway, and a few seats. However, there are still no toilets and changing facilities.

MDHS’ aim is to make the Kuala Kubu Baru hot spring an international tourist destination'.

• Philippines

Asian Correspondent (September 2) visits Manquinit hot springs, Coron islands, the Philippines: 

'... reputedly one of just two saltwater hot springs in the world'. 

Not really good research. A simple google search will lead you to f.i. the Zhaori Saltwater Hot Springs, Taiwan. It's 

'This is one of only three saltwater hot springs in the world along with the springs on Kyushu Island of Japan and Sicily in Italy'. 

But no Manquinit. Or what about Mount Mangunui, New Zealand? Triton Bay, China?

   

Who knows this hot spring in Chaiya, Thailand?

  

Further afield. The Secret of India website lists a couple of Indian hot springs.

Publications: Healing Springs - The ultimate guide to taking the waters [?]

Source: Nathanielaltman.com

Non-existent

Soaking literature is far and few between. 

There are indeed many a hot spring guide book, in the US quite a few and in New Zealand as far as I know. Supposedly there will also be quite a few connoisseurs guides in Japanese.

But with instant internet, there's little or no need to publish these guides any more. We can all delve the info required with a swish and pointer or two. All up to date as well as the latest visitor who wishes to diss the place. The photo's are always there, explaining every nook or cranny. And even pre-buying an entrance fee to the fancier resorts becomes apparent. All the pre-visit pleasures.

This does mean that the enthusiast / upcoming soaking expert is depraved of an avenue to exhibit his or her expertise. In print. And who's not being printed does not exist. So goes the old adagium.

But beyond the world of lists and links there is surprisingly little info on what hot springs are and why so. Altman's now slowly dated Healing Springs wishes to link the two worlds and probably back in 2000 that might have worked. But nowadays a book a third filled with alist of potential soaking spots and a small collection of soaking picca's instantly seems out of place. And soakers in Southeast Asia need to note: we are not included! So much for our beloved soaking culture.

Best efforts to no avail? Krabi, Thailand's Klong Thom hot springs by Cholthicha Pornpan

Lost

But in the other two thirds, Altman has gone out of his way to seek to prove beyond doubt that soaking is indeed a healing process. 

Altman's expertise is in alternative healing (he's an hand analyst) and he seeks to combine natural waters with immediate health benefits. Mineral content is linked to disease remedies while diseases are linked to types of hot springs. It transpires that soaking isn't the only healing aspect, one needs to include drinking and inhaling mineral spring content. Emphasis is awarded to the Euro concept of taking the waters where states have enabled soaking industries to expand and medicalise the hot spring experience itself.

And that is where to me the healing aspect is lost.

Healing and hot springs is as much about inspiring and relaxing rather than solely something to heal. Altman does try though. There is a chapter on the ambiance of soaking. But describing this book as the ultimate? Even in 2000 that wouldn't have covered the content.

Though he admires the Euro soaking states, he's right in emphasizing that soaking nowadays is something we might be interested in; but gone are the days in which states could afford soakers to indulge for weeks on end. Better are the Japanese concept with ample bathing facilities which can afford daily experiences. Already this fits much more in with northern Europe's hang towards sauna. Or the old daily English bath.

The author raves on about his Bad Wildbad experience, Germany. Unfortunately his own photo's are not available any more. The caption to this photo:

'A swimming fairy tale come true ... The classicist façade of the Graf-Eberhard-Bad (Count Eberhard Pool) looks rather unsophisticated in relation to what it contains. Behind the Florentine sandstone walls you will find oriental bathing splendour that is certainly unique in Europe.

This building, once threatened by decay, was restored with the help of significant financial backing, good planning and artistic effort to its original luxury as a bathing landscape, a dream from 1001 Nights. Today it is a modern temple of health with the refined feeling of the orient.

A grand architectonic effort thus succeeded in creating symbiosis between necessary modern form and an atmosphere of nostalgia. The Moorish Hall, the Princes' Baths and the Great Lords' Bath, where the statue of Venus by the Danish sculptor Bert Thorwaldsen can be seen, and above all the exclusive sauna landscape are part of the wonderful framework for a healthy visit. No resort visitor should miss this attraction: no one leaves without being impressed'.

Other aspects included are a nice historic overview where he notes that hot springs and human interest can be traced back for 600,000 years, but what with the lack of writing skills, use of mineral waters can be traced to Greek and Roman scripts as well as ample evidence in the form of archeological remains.

Altman does add a chapter on the preventive aspects of heated baths (leading to higher states of immunity) which assist in cleansing the body of toxins. We also learn that water pressure leads to increased flows of oxygen-rich blood. There is much more added to the list to the preventive powers of soaks, aspects of negative ions, micro-nutrients. You'll need to read for yourself.

So to sum up is Healing Springs a no buy? Well, I think the book cost me 0.14 cents which is about just above scrap value. The question is the book worth the transport costs? Hmm ...

Healing Springs has 4.8 stars at Amazon (4 reviews), while only 3 stars at good read (2 ratings).

Reference
Altman, N. (2000) Healing Springs - The ultimate guide to taking the waters. Healing Arts Press, Rochester, Vermont, United States of America.