In Korea, they have public baths.
What are they?
They are a place where Koreans go to scrub.
Scrub?
Yes!
They use these cloths in the photo to exfoliate their skin.
The cloths come in different scrub strengths.
The yellow and green ones are regular scrub power while the red ones are for sensitive skin.
These cloths are made from an abrasive material.
If you don’t have one and want one, you can buy one at the public baths. They are only 1,500 won each ($1.50US.)
When you get to the public baths, you will pay an entrance fee at the counter.
It costs 3,500 won ($3US) to go to the public baths for a day.
Most people bring their own soap and shampoo. If you forget, not to worry because you can buy them inside.
After you pay fee, you will be handed a towel. Then you will enter the change rooms. You can put your belongings in a locker.
Then look for a steamy door!
Just to let you know, no one wears any clothes at the public baths. If you are shy, this is not the place for you!
At the public baths, there are baths, showers and saunas.
The baths are large and have different temperatures of water in them.
Some baths are boiling hot while others are freezing cold.
The baths are big enough for about 10-15 people in each one.
It is best to soak in a hot bath and then when you get out, scrub your skin with one of the Korean cloths. You will have to apply a lot of pressure and your skin will turn red but after it will be shiny and soft.
The baths are not co-ed. There are seperate baths for men and women.
It is fun to sit in the hot bath and then jump in the cold one.
Some public baths even have a hair dressers inside so you can get your hair done at the same time.
You can get a massage at the public baths but it is not a relaxing massage that most western people are used to. Korean massages can be quite painful! If you think you can handle it, give it a try! It costs 13,000 won and lasts around 40 minutes. First they scrub your body all over. Second they give you a face pack. Third they give you a massage and lastly they give you a foaming body wash.
The public baths can often be noisy and crowded. If you are looking for a relaxing spa experience, go to any 5 star hotel closest to you and use their public baths. The cost is 15,000 won ($15.00US) each time you go and remember you can stay there for the whole day if you choose!
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