Hammams, water-based massage-exfoliation-cleansing-moisturizing rituals, have stood the test of time. Prevalent in Middle Eastern and North African cultures, these treatments go way back as public bath house experiences that centered around cleansing and community. Today, they’ve evolved to incorporate indulgent elements and health perks, including exposure to hot and cool temperatures, exfoliation to enhance circulation and radiance, and full-body massage to make you melt. “Moving through temperature variations enhances circulation, reduces stress, and promotes deep relaxation,” Explains Georgette Cintro, Assistant Spa Director at Condado Vanderbilt in Puerto Rico where the Hammam offering is thoughtful, thorough, and full-blown. ”Heat and steam open pores and induce sweating, effectively eliminating toxins. Furthermore, the ritualistic nature of the hammam provides mental clarity and a profound sense of calm, contributing to overall emotional well-being.”
At the Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, this tradition is elevated to a highly luxurious experience, held in a stunning marble room designed and dedicated to the sole purpose of honoring this pampering treatment. It’s an other-worldly atmosphere that reflects the rich cultural heritage of the practice. As they say, location is everything, and here in the organic stone haven, that statement is very true. Well ok, the wonderful scrub, warm water, and massage are everything too.
The experience begins with a private steam bath to get you feeling loose, and prompt your body to start sweating. This process activates the body's natural cooling mechanism, which increases blood flow and improves circulation, which is a big bonus for cardiovascular and skin health. That blood flow also delivers more oxygen and nutrients to your muscles, speeding repair and recover, and soothing soreness. And while the notion that sweat can detoxify the body is highly debated, experts agree that sitting in the hot steam can help flush out certain undesirable compounds like metals, plus pollution and dirt.
After the steam bath, you’ll recline on a heated marble table while warm water is poured over your body in a rhythmic flow that induces calm. This is followed by a light, soapy wash with delicate bubbles that burst softly over your skin. The accompanying rosewater scent is heavenly. Next, you are treated to a full-body exfoliation using a scrubby mitt called a Kessa glove. Begone, every single dead skill cell! You’ve never been cleaner, smoother, or more invigorated. The final step is a massage with nourishing olive oil, leaving the skin incredibly soft and hydrated, the body tension-free, and the mind completely at ease.
In a more surprising place to find a Hammam, the Mamara Park Avenue hotel in New York City is one of a few locations in the bustling metropolis where you can combine luxury with an authentic Hammam experience. The hotel is lucky enough to have a traditional Turkish Hammam in its beautiful subterranean wellness center, which houses an indoor swimming pool and a variety of spa treatments. Upon entering the hammam, you will get a peshtemal (a cotton towel to wrap your body in) and once in this spacious chamber, the warmth of the hot steam envelops you. The entire room is composed of marble and has been specifically designed to maintain proper heat and humidity levels. The room is heated from beneath and maintains a comfortable hot temperature. Marble seating runs all along the perimeter of the hammam. There you will relax for a short time while your body loosens toxins and impurities through sweating. From there, the therapist will begin the traditional hammam experience. Once the treatment is completed and you’ve fully relaxed, treat yourself to the glorious NYC views at their Balcon rooftop bar for a light bite and refreshing mocktail or cocktail.