You will literally get addicted to the spas in Asia, as public bathing is a traditional in many countries in Asia such as Turkey, Taiwan, Japan and Korea. However, if massage is your thing, then head out to Thailand, India or China for some ancient therapeutic massage.
Ayurveda treatments, India
Ayurveda is an ancient traditional system that practices holistic medicine in India. Ayurveda has been practices in India for over 5000 years and it basically works on the simple principle that the body is made up of five elements- air, water, fire, ether and earth. Although Ayurveda is practiced across the country, yet the prominent destinations that offer exquisite and authentic treatments are in the Himalaya, Goa and Kerala. The most exclusive Ayurveda treatment is in the Ananda Spa that is located near Rishikesh in the foothills of the Himalayas. There are various treatments that are offered ranging from an oil bath, to special diets and mud wraps.
Ashrams, India
If you are in search of mental peace and spirituality- then India is the perfect spiritual destination, as it offers a plethora of options through their multiple ashrams dotted across the country. In these ashrams, you can find famous yoga gurus and spiritual guides and you can stay back and absorb the knowledge. Ashrams are particularly located in areas that have religious significance- like alongside the Ganges River.
Thai massage
Thai massage is always featured in any spa menu, and is practically offered all over the world- particularly in tourist areas. However, ensure that the massage is authentic and that you are not duped into paying more for just a simple massage. Thai massage usually takes place on the floor in a fully dressed state. It includes various yoga-like stretches, passive stretches and massage on the pressure point as it helps in relieving tension by releasing the blocked energy.
Taiwan baths
Many people have apparently drowned in Taiwanese baths and the heat emanating from the baths are to be blamed for making the people drowsy and putting them off to sleep! So, next time you choose to visit one of these, make sure you are alert or just rush off to the side rooms for a short nap. Taiwan has a lot of hot springs and the people of the country enjoy spring bathing.
Japanese baths
Bathing in Japan is altogether a different experience as it involves much more than body cleansing. You have to remove your entire clothes and shed your inhibitions to lather and scrub and relax in the clean hot water. In fact, these public baths used to be an ideal meeting point for friends- and they are still quite popular.
