On a tour, the author experiences nudity and social interaction at a Turkish bath, where she also faces personal interrogation, scrubbing, and cultural faux pas.

On day four of a 15-day Intrepid Travel Turkey Encompassed tour, the author encounters a Turkish bath called Elis Hamam in Cappadocia's Göreme. The natır, a female bath attendant, interrogates the author about her 20-year marriage and their relationship. The author realizes that she has given staff nothing they can work with, as they have given them nothing they can work with. Hamams have been an integral part of local culture since Roman times, growing in popularity during the Ottoman era as a place to cleanse and socialize. They have long been used to match couples, organize events, and moan about matrimonial shackles. The author's experience starts normally with cooking in a steam room for 15 minutes, followed by floating naked in a plunge pool for 20 minutes. The author's natır sings in Turkish, asking the author if she can help them get a visa. The post-hamam massage and tea consumption are enjoyed by the tour mates, who find the experience authentic.

January 28, 2024
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