Hamam

      Beautiful architecture, hot marble baths, and a massage and exfoliation, this is what awaits Turks and travelers in the Turkish baths known as hamams. Traditionally the Turks would bath atleast twice a week, making it a large part of social culture and time out of the homes for the women. A woman even had legal power to divorce her husband if he couldn't fund her twice weekly bath trips.
     Usually the baths are segregated by sex, although it is possible to find a few co-ed ones currently. The architecture of the buildings is amazing, and usually from the 1400-1500s, and naturally the best way to experience it is to pay the 50 Turkish Lira to enjoy it. A bath takes about an hour to an hour and a half, allowing for time to relax and assimilate into the culture. Generally the bath begins by entering the changing room, where you will leave your stuff, and go into the main room wearing only a towel-like cloth traditional for the baths. You then adjust the temperature of your bath till its almost to hot to stand, using a large ladle to pour the water one the skin in order to make it soft.
      Next the assistant will bring you the center of the room where a marble slab becomes your massage table and scrubbing station. You are then rubber and a loofa like creation makes your skin silky smooth. Afterwards you rinse yourself, and head into the changing room to leisurely get ready to leave while being served tea. The cultural experience is unique and exciting, bringing you one step closer to the Turkish people.