Istanbul Pir -u-Pak Hamam

The famed Hamam (Turkish Steam Bath) experience has been around for over 600 years. It was brought by the Ottomans when they took over from the Romans in 1450. To this day, it's one of the most enduring traditions in Turkey. A must do!  

Relax into this amazing activity. First in the 'warm room' for 10-15 minutes you perspire and relax, Then it's the full body scrub with Olive soap to remove the dead skin. Then a rinse off. (You may wear your bathing suits), Then a second scrub with a mitten being used. After this, you'll receive a relaxing bubble wash ritual right on the warm marble stone lying slab area. This includes a stress-releasing neck and scalp massage and full body. Your hair will be washed with a red rose bud-scented shampoo. Afterwards, you are wrapped in a fluffy robe with a towel on your head to go and sit and bliss out for a while. 

(A note for women): You will be offered the Ottoman-style custom made sherbet, with other more indulgent offers. You will have your own locker for safekeeping any of your items. You'll be given an area to change into a pair of disposable underwear, a peshtemal (silk wrap), and a pair of wooden slippers.