How to Do a Turkish Bath: A First-Timer's Hammam Guide

The Turkish bath, or hammam, is a centuries-old tradition of cleansing and relaxation. With warm marble, steam, a scrub and a foam massage, it rests both body and mind. If you are going to a hammam for the first time, this guide explains what to expect and how to prepare.

The hammam, step by step

• Warming up: rest for a few minutes in the hot section of the hammam to let your body get used to the heat.
• The heated marble stone: lie on the warm marble slab in the centre and work up a sweat; your pores open and your muscles relax.
• The scrub: an attendant gently removes dead skin cells with a special exfoliating mitt.
• The foam massage: a soft massage with plenty of soap foam soothes the skin.
• Rinsing and resting: after rinsing off with warm water, relax in the rest area with a herbal tea.

What to wear and what to bring

In the hammam a peştemal (a traditional cotton wrap) is usually worn, though you can also go in wearing a swimsuit. At most hotels, slippers, towels and a peştemal are provided by the spa. We recommend leaving your jewellery in your room.

Things to bear in mind

• Drink plenty of water before and after the hammam.
• Do not go into the hammam straight after a heavy meal.
• Do not stay in the heat for too long; if you feel dizzy, move to a cooler area.
• If you are pregnant or have a condition such as cardiovascular disease or high blood pressure, consult your doctor first.

The Turkish bath at Ulu Resort Hotel

The Spa & Wellness centre at Ulu Resort Hotel has a traditional Turkish bath, a sauna and a steam room. The scrub and foam massage is given by our professional therapists, and after the hammam you can sip a herbal tea in the rest area. The honeymoon package also includes a couples' scrub-and-foam ritual.