A hot spring is a natural geothermal feature that occurs when heated water from underground sources rises to the surface. Geysers, spas, STEAM, oases, and thermal springs are all types of hot springs. A GEYSER is a type of hot spring that intermittently erupts hot water and STEAM. A SPA is a place where people go to relax and enjoy the therapeutic benefits of hot springs. STEAM is the vapor created when hot water is released from a hot spring. An OASIS is an area in a desert where a hot spring provides water for plants and animals. A thermal spring is a hot spring with a temperature higher than the average temperature of its surroundings.