In America, where 30 million citizens don't have access to health insurance, the idea of government-sponsored spa services seems not just decadent, but downright crazy. In Chile, however, where all citizens have access to free basic health care, the situation is quite different.

A case in point is a local council outside of Chile's capital Santiago, which recently opened a free community spa. Apparently residents can come to the Spa Aqua Colina for everything from hot stone massage to physical therapy, and everything is free.

According to Mayor Olavarria Rodriguez, the local spa isn't just about pampering, it's about public health. He says, "Many people in my community are leading unhealthy lifestyles that will cost us money in the long run. In Chile, councils are in charge of financing their own health surgeries. I would prefer to tackle the root of the problem by stopping patients from becoming ill in the first place."

I don't know about you, but I'm starting to feel like the US government owes me a shiatsu massage right about now.