If you’re seeking out a distinctly New York/Russian luxury experience, then you can’t go past the Russian and Turkish Baths, located in the East Village on East 10th street between First Avenue and Avenue A. This gorgeous old facility, established in 1892, is the best place in the city to chill out, reconnect with your inner self, and generally feel relaxed. Here, you don’t have to feel self-conscious – you can lounge and walk around in almost naked bliss because everyone’s doing it.
The facilities at the Russian and Turkish Baths include an ice cold pool, perfect for cooling down in after a hot and sweaty time in the sauna. The authentic Russian Sauna is filled with 20,000 pounds of rock which gives off an intense radiant heat – when the heat becomes unbearable, just dunk a bucket of ice water over your head, as Russians have done for centuries.
There is also an electric Redwood Sauna, a Turkish Room, an Aromatherapy Room, a Steam Room, a Swedish Shower which will leave you squeaky clean, and a Sun Deck for when you need some fresh air. At the restaurant, you can enjoy bagels and cream cheese, eggs, salads, and authentic Russian meals.
A one-day admission to the Russian and Turkish Baths costs $30.
Blowing into New York for the weekend to see a Broadway show? Why not spend the weekend in total style by staying in the historic Algonquin Hotel on West 44th Street. A room at the Algonquin will set you back $300 to $400, but in exchange, you get to immerse yourself in a beautiful designated National Literary Landmark.