I'm wondering if anyone on this list has ever gone to the Russian/Turkish baths in NYC, and if so how gay friendly are they. There is one in Manhattan, but one that has a very good reputation just opened a 'Men's Only' club where you get full treatment of massage, spring waters, and a Russian sauna flogging with herbal branches. Hot tubs, then you jump into ice cold water [40 degrees]. I've had this done twice now, once in Russia and more recently in Budapest. I know it sounds odd, probably kinky; but believe me it is very invigorating. With these spa's in NYC have a little gay activity, that would be even better; or a gay masseur to make me feel extra comfortable! These are called Platza treatments and it is when a massage specialist continuously applies a bushel made of oak leaves or eucalyptus branches called a venik which is soaked in warm water over your entire body. The procedure has benefits of naturally removing toxins and skin-dulling residue from your body. This is a traditional Russian experience unlike any other. The Treatment is performed on the uppermost bench, to maximize the amount of heat rises from the stone oven The venik creates a sedative effect which melts away stress, open your pores, remove toxins, and exfoliate dead skin. If you have had any experience with this at the Spa's or are a a masseur familiar with this treatment and can host, please contact me.
