Way to Russia Talk Lounge

peteusa · Just Starting Joined: 01 Oct 2003 Posts: 3 Location: usa

I have read about the famous Russian Banya. Now I want to experience it.

I need help finding one.
When I do a search on the internet, what it appears that I am finding is
"sex clubs" (or something like that), which is nice, but not really the
experience I am looking for on my first trip to Russia.

Can anyone recommend a few Banyas in both Moscow and Saint Pete?

I am looking for a public banya, that is large, and popular to common
Russian folk. I understand that I may not get a totally "pure" banya, that
you may find out in the country, and that is ok. But I am *not* looking for
any version of trendy health club or spa that I could easily go to in the
USA. So, I am really looking for a good quality (not necessarily "nice")
banya, and one that is a popular favorite for local Russians.

Any help or advice will be appreciated-- thanks in advance.
Also, how do you pay for the banya? Is it pay in advance? Pay when
you leave? How much should you take there, considering you will
have to leave your belongings somewhere...what do you do with
your stuff? are lockers typically provided (somewhere I read, you
just give your stuff to someone to hold, like an attendant, but is
this safe?)?

Thanks.
pete["at"]plutox.us

Sergei from Moscow · Guest

Hi, Pete!

Probably the most famous banya in Moscow is Sanduny (http://www.sanduny.ru/index_e.htm)

To my mind you are making things too much complicated. Very Happy

The ticket to Sanduny is 700-800 roubles (approx. USD 26). Usually you pay for the ticket when you enter the premises (however I am not sure about this partucular banya. Probably you should book in advance. Ask your travel agent to check or book the banya). You leave your overcoat at the cloakroom - just like at the theater. I do not recommend to have too much cash with you as normally the staff is not responsible for your money. Be sure you have enough money to pay for the ticket and beverages, should you like to have some later. I would not recommend to have more than RUR 1500 with you (USD 50). Credit cards are accepted. Lockers are normally there. Do not give your stuff to someone to hold - it can be not safe. I hope I gave you at least a hint.

Sorry, I do not know anything about banyas in St.Petesrburg. Crying or Very sad

Take care,
Wink

Sergei