Posts Tagged ‘bathing’

One of the highlights of our upcoming visit to Istanbul will be experiencing a traditional Turkish Bath or Hamam.

The Hamam is a tradition that dates back many centuries and was used not only to cleanse and relax but was also as a time for socialising.

From all accounts a session in a Hamam will leave you feeling cleaner than you have ever felt before. For the grand sum of approximately $30.00 you will be steamed, washed, scrubbed within an inch of your life, pummelled and sudsed (see the guy in the picture on the left !) …sounds absolutely fascinating and something not to be missed.

Of course traditional baths are segregated …one side for the men and the other for women, although there is at least one Hamam in Istanbul where mixed bathing is the norm. I think I prefer the women only version for my first Hamam.

I will be taking notes on essential oils and botanicals used and hopefully will be able to bring a touch of the Turkish culture back to Moon Haven when we return in mid July.