How to Make the Most of a Turkish Bath

One great Turkish tradition that is not to be missed is the amazing Turkish bath . A combination of hot steam, sweet scented soaps and heavy massages all combine to give you an experience that will definitely become one of your favorite holiday memories. In this article, we give you the ultimate guide on how to enjoy and make the most of a Turkish bath.

So What Will Happen When You Visit a Turkish bath?

The hot, steam room is your first port of call. Lie down on patterned, marble slabs and let the steam open up the pores of your skin. This is great news for your skin as day to day living in cities with pollution and traffic can often leave pores clogged with dirt and unseen chemicals. If the steam gets too much for you, simply grab a bucket, switch on the taps and empty an ice cold bucket over your head. Wow – how refreshing!

After a short while, your private masseur will enter and empty a large pillowcase of sweet smelling soap suds all over you, from head to toe.  Next is the loafer which is rubbed over all over your body, to get rid of dead skin and leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated again.   

That is the basic process of a Turkish bath however since you are in Turkey, take full advantage and opt for the olive oil soap massage which will relieve you of all that stress and make you feel like you have landed in heaven. Last but not least, grab yourself a cup of apple tea and sit down with friends to catch up on their thoughts and experiences of a traditional Turkish bath.

When is the best time to have a Turkish bath?

The best time is definitely at the beginning of your holiday. After all, you don’t want to spend all week building up your sun tan, only for it to disappear when you visit the Turkish bath. If you visit on the first day of your holiday, this will also ensure that you end up with a deeper and longer lasting tan when you go home.

 What Should You Wear?

Wear your swimming costume but don’t be shocked to see the local Turkish people wearing nothing but a towel. The Turkish bath has been around for many centuries and in years gone by, nothing was worn. Fast forward to present day and more emphasis is placed on modesty so swimming costumes are allowed but you will still be handed a towel when you walk in. If you are female and don’t want a male masseur, visit the Turkish bath on ladies day and relax as no men are permitted.  

Socializing

The Turkish bath is actually a social tradition for local people and because of this, there is no such thing as a hurried Turkish bath. Ensure you allocate plenty of time and visit with friends or family so you can catch up on the daily gossip of the day or arrange further activities for your holiday. Having your friends with you, adds to the exciting experience of a Turkish bath and you will all have a wonderful holiday story to tell people when you get back home.

Natalie Sayin, My Destination Antalya
August 2011