Russian and Turkish Baths

Nestled in a newly renovated facility on 1st Avenue and Avenue A, the Russian and Turkish Baths of the East Village provide an old-world experience of pleasure and cleanliness. Though not designed for elegance, the spa is intended to create a relaxing atmosphere where people aren't self conscious and are free to get in touch with themselves.

Appointments aren't necessary--you can just walk in and sign up for the treatment of your choice. There are men's and women's locker rooms, where you can keep your personal belongings. Start your relaxation off with a few minutes in one of the bath's saunas, the most popular of which is the Russian sauna, made of 20,000 pounds of rock. The rock is heated each night so that it can give off natural heat during the day. It is customary to douse yourself with cold water just as you are getting too hot inside the sauna.

The Redwood Sauna – all redwood, of course -- is warmed by an electric heater. The Turkish Room is a white-tiled sauna with wooden benches for sitting or lying down. The cold shower head and lavender or eucalyptus scents create a comfortable and tranquil environment. These and other scents can be further experienced in the Aromatherapy Room, where various scents can change your mood and create a relaxing ambiance. Finally, cool off with a dip in the Ice Cold Pool or the three-jet Swedish Shower, and then relax with a nap on the Sun Deck. The Bath's restaurant provides replenishing and healthy foods, as well as traditional Russian cuisine.

Accompany your day of relaxation with a choice of one or more special treatments, including a massage or scrub. Choose a calming Russian/ Swedish massage or a more intense Thai/Sports massage. The Platza Oak Leaf treatment allows you to lie in the Turkish Room while a therapist scrubs you with a traditional oak leaf, removing old skin and clearing your pores. Refresh and cleanse your entire body with a Dead Sea Salt Scrub, a Seaweed Salt Scrub, a Black Mud Treatment, or a scented Soap Wash.

You'll leave the Russian and Turkish Baths feeling like a brand new person- with a clear mind and rejuvenated body, ready to face the modern world.

- Alexandra Beck