The Radisson Blu hotel in Split, Croatia is located on the Adriatic Sea and offers breathtaking views.

May 8, 2021 – Digital nomads from Split can now work at the Radisson Blu Hotel’s SPAlato Spa, with free Wi-Fi and a relaxation area. You can also book a treatment to de-stress your mind and body while you’re at it …

The digital nomadic lifestyle can be tough on my posture and brain waves at times. I live on a computer and some days I feel like I’m becoming a piece of furniture, leaning over a keyboard with an endless to-do list. Recently, I’ve had enough. I desperately needed a massage to loosen my tight muscles and clear my head. I decided to visit the spa at the Radisson Blu hotel near my apartment. I went there last year just before the pandemic ended and enjoyed wonderful treatment with amazing views of the Adriatic Sea.

The SPAlato Spa opened in a completely renovated space on May 1, including treatment rooms, swimming pools, a terrace, a relaxation area, a fitness center and a yoga studio.

Cool atmosphere

A year ago the spa was under renovation and this time I was happy to see the new space. I went there on a Sunday morning and the first thing I noticed was the cool vibe with jazz music and a lounge vibe. I immediately loved it. It reminded me of the places I used to come home to settle in and relax with the Sunday New York Times and a coffee.

A seating area includes a display rack for purchasing organic products used during treatments.

I scheduled a facial and massage and arrived early to swim and sweat in the sauna before my treatments. The spa was airy and light, which I like, and the design was minimalist yet elegant. I was delighted to find several different “areas” where I could hang out, including comfortable sofas by the pool and an outdoor patio for sunbathing. Later I found out that the designated relaxation area has Wi-Fi, is for kids only, and that’s where I can sit and work for a day. Wait a minute, what?

Digital nomads can settle into the relaxation area, Wi-Fi included, and switch between work and spa equipment.

More from WFH (work from home)

The concept was mind blowing. The SPAlato (a nice name playing on Spa with the old Italian name of Split) could replace my dining table desk and allow me to take breaks from the computer in any number of places: indoor pools and outdoor, gym, sauna, hammam, whirlpool, cold and hot plunge pools or yoga studio. And there’s another bonus for this spa and wellness enthusiast: I could tackle the tantalizing list of treatments.

The new saunas are cool and allow you to build up heat before jumping into the pool.

TCM (Traditional Chinese Massage) with a certified Chinese therapist; Power of the Sea – a combination of sea salt scrub, aromatherapy with local essential oils, bath, full body massage, body wrap and finish with local everlasting oil; and other treatments promised to restore my bodily and mental energies.

Deep cold and hot pools are located between the saunas in the relaxation area.

It sounds decadent, and maybe dangerous when it comes to meeting work deadlines, but my body would be so grateful and my mind would be so happy.

The indoor pool is surrounded by glass, giving the impression of being outside and close to nature.

Treatments

My therapist Doris asked what type of massage I like and I said sport or deep tissue. Every therapist I’ve told this to has interpreted it differently. For all good massages, I have also endured being rubbed with inexperienced, weak hands and pounded with deadly claws. Not this time. Doris not only had the right touch, but she knew how to apply pressure in the right way to get my muscles flowing. Yes!

The treatment rooms are comfortable and soothing, an ideal environment to relax.

She also did my facial and explained the steps and products used, including the specific needs of my skin type. Small details in both treatments made all the difference, starting with the bowl of water and eucalyptus oil she held under my nose before starting. Oh my God, I took a deep breath. I’ve had enough treatments over the years to know that each place is different and charming in its own way. It also sets a benchmark for quality and this place is high on my list.

Thalgo and Elemis spa products are organic and made with marine ingredients for maximum effectiveness.

Mediterranean experience

I spent the rest of my time on the upper dining terrace, looking out to sea and eating a fresh salad. It couldn’t have been nicer. I can’t believe I’m contemplating my future spa workspace; how cool it would be to be the first digital nomad to claim a co-working seat at SPAlato.

An upstairs terrace offers Mediterranean cuisine and drinks in a relaxed and elegant atmosphere.

Learn more about SPAlato on Radisson Blu’s website.

Learn more about TCN’s Digital Nomads channel.

History and photographs © 2021, Cyndie Burkhardt. https://photo-diaries.com