Before you go
Avoid a heavy meal right before your session; a light snack one or two hours earlier is better. Drink plenty of water and skip alcohol. If you are sensitive to heat, ask for a shorter or gentler session.
What do you wear in a hamam?
Most hamams give you a pestemal, a light cotton wrap, and many guests wear swimwear or underwear beneath it. During the scrub and massage the therapist will guide you on how to use it.
The heated stone, the kese and the foam
The göbek taşı is the heated marble platform at the center of the hamam. You lie on it while the steam opens your pores. A kese mitt then exfoliates the skin, and the foam wash that follows is the part most guests remember.
After the session
Rest with a glass of tea or water and stand up slowly. If you have a busy plan afterwards, leave some time before it.
Health notes
If you are pregnant, or have a heart condition, high blood pressure or sensitive skin, speak to your doctor first and mention it when you book.
Tipping
A tip is a way to show you were happy with the service. It is appreciated but never expected.