The tradition of the banya, or public bath-house, is as old as Russia itself, if not older. Back to old days, the bath-house was not only a relatively efficient  way of maintaining basic standarts of personal hygiene, but also as a social center.

What is banya like? Sweating in a steam-room and being beaten with birch twigs, before plunging into often icy water or even snow – may initially appear unappealing to outsiders, a regular visit an almost spiritual experience for many Russians, and indeed non-Russians, who have been introduced to it. No doubt, you will feel relaxed and recharged.

The best way to enjoy banya, especially if it’s your first visit, is to go in a group of people who have done that before – the more experienced the better. You can book the whole banya for yourselves only.

Here are some simple rules to follow:

• It’s the best to visit banya before rather that immediately after eating.
• Many banyas these days offer food but alcohol  (especially vodka) is not a good idea. A beer or two is probably fine.
• Take off the underpants and just take the standard sheet to cover your modesty. A good pair of flip-flops is also a good idea to make sure you don’t end up slip-sliding all over the wet floor. If you are worried about your valuables, the administrator will usually have somewhere to put them for safe-keeping.
• Once you’re properly warmed up, take out the birch twigs and get beating – or, even better, get someone else to do it for you.
• Never argue or discuss politics while you are in banya – enjoy the process!