The town of Maribor in Slovenia has been chosen as the venue for the ISPA European Conference in 2002. Most famous for the `Golden Fox` race, an international skiing competition for women staged for more than 30 years, Slovenia, a green oasis in Europe, is a country rich in diversity. On one side the Alps, interlaced with river gorges and adorned with waterfalls and glacial lakes, on the other, the blue Adriatic Sea. Cultural sights range from Roman monuments to medieval castles. National traditions are extremely colourful and carefully presented in age-old crafts, customs and culinary specialities.

Slovenia is a safe country to visit with a politically stable democracy and whose capital is the picturesque city of Ljubljana. The economy of the country is in good health with 250 Slovenian dollars equal to one US dollar.

The people of Slovenia discovered the healing powers of Slovene thermal springs hundreds of years ago and its rich thermal culture is evident today in 15 spa-tourist centres.

Maribor is Slovenia`s second largest city with a population of 220,000 and lies on the north-east of the country, only a stone`s throw from the Austrian border.

The region around Maribor is famous for its wines and the city boasts the oldest vine in the world, more than 400 years old and it still produces 30 litres of wine annually.

The region of Maribor Pohorje offers plenty of opportunity for rest and relaxation as well as recreation in healthy, invigorating air. Well-signed footpaths, mountain and bicycle trails lead to forest glades where tranquillity can be enjoyed.

Maribor is located approx 1? hours drive from the capital Ljubljana with regular direct flights to and from the capital city served by the National Airline, Adria Airways. It is also possible to fly to Graz in Austria and then drive to Maribor which is only one hour away.

Roman Matek, Board Member of ISPA Europe, and Managing Director of Lasko Health Resort, has agreed to be the Conference Chair for 2002.

Pre-conference tours will include the historic Spa town of Lasko, located only 68 km from Maribor.

First class hotels and wonderful spa facilities await us in Maribor in 2002 together with the genuine warmth of the Slovenian people.

By taking the European Conference in 2002 to Slovenia, ISPA Europe will continue to fulfil its goal of growing its membership by welcoming spa professionals from all across Europe, from traditional spas to the most modern.

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