All over the world people are convinced of the therapeutic value of hot springs. People flock to bathe in them to bring relief to a number of ailments, particularly bad backs and other aches and pains. Some use springs not for their curative value, but to maintain a sense of health and wellbeing. From Sankampaeng in the north, to Ranong's Hot Springs and Raksawarin Park Arboretum in the south, Thailand has a number of springs available to visitors. Some are basic in their approach (simply pools of hot water), others have been turned into spas and health centres. Not every country has the volcanic activity that helps form hot springs, so for many visitors they are at once an attraction and a novelty. Thailand's springs are usually set in attractive scenery and are pleasant places to visit in their own right - ideal for walks, picnics and other pastimes. If you are in Thailand for any length of time, a visit to a hot spring really should be on your itinerary.