Cemberlitas Hamam

This was possibly the most luxurious experience I’ve ever had – to lie on a baking hot slab, gazing up at the domed ceiling pierced to let in light and dripping with condensation; to be washed and massaged thoroughly but gently, and with the utmost good humour; the relief of pouring cool water on hot skin; time seeming to become meaningless… is it any wonder this is at the top of my list of places to return to?

Can you go to Turkey and not take in a Turkish bath? It’s an odd concept to many Westerners, but it’s a fabulous experience. To bake on a hot marble slab, staring up into a dome pierced to let in sunlight, in a steamy room with the echoes of water splashing from fountains all around the perimeter… It’s an indulgent time, a chance to relax and experience and reflect. It was something I did our last day in Istanbul, and well worth it. A perfect end to a perfect vacation.

For a bit more info: http://www.cemberlitashamami.com.tr/ (available in Turkish, English or Spanish) — also pictures, mainly of the men’s side of the baths, but ladies, you’ll get the idea!