Spa Report: The Moroccan Hammam
When in Morocco, you can’t miss the traditional Moroccan hammam, or Turkish-style steam bath. There are a variety of public and private hammams ranging from uber-luxurious spa experiences, like the hammam at La Sultana in Marrakech, to simple public bathhouses. So how does it work? Step one: de-robe. This is not the time to be shy! Do as the Moroccans do and strip down to the bare essentials. Next buckets of water are poured over you, in the fancier establishments by your own attendant. Then comes the steaming. The heated stone platforms you’ll lay on are guaranteed to force your muscles to surrender.
Shedding Your Skin: Exfoliation
Next comes the exfoliation process, and it’s not likely to resemble any exfoliation you’ve ever received. Here your skin is scrubbed rigorously, and I mean rigorously, with a kissa, or rough glove designed to remove dead skin cells. If you happen to glance down at yourself during this process, you’ll see globs of skin clustering like discarded snake skin. Follow that all up with more rinses and perhaps a shampoo, scalp rub, and facial scrub. The best way to complete your hammam experience is with a massage, pure heaven for the weary traveler.
Moroccan Fragrances
Some of the classic Moroccan scents you’re likely to encounter include rose, mint, honey, almond, lemon, orange blossom and argan oil. Once home, a simple whiff of these scents will be enough to transport you right back to Morocco.
