The swirling mist arose from the water, making the myriad of bathers seem a mirage. As bathers emerged from the pool, steam cascaded from their bodies, giving an allusion of warmth, broken when the bather began to sprint to his or her next immersion experience.
The rectangular courtyard seemed to be fashioned of dreams. Three pools spanned its length, overseen by nymphs and goddesses, glistening and sparkling from their perch aside the pools. Multiple grand staircases gave entrance to the grandiose yellow palace, allowing hedonists to enter the pools, descend to the saunas, wander through the French doors for a snack, or deign to receive a massage.
The ornate molding projects luxurious atmosphere, encouraging tourists and locals alike to pause and spend a day luxuriating like the ancient Romans and Turks before them. There are people of all shapes, sizes, and linguas, wading through the varied waters – boiling, warm, sulfur, medicinal, cold, ice cold, rampaging.
The bath experience is not limited to indoor and outdoor pools and tubs. One can also enjoy steam rooms, saunas, showers with multiple types of waters, spa treatments, and fitness opportunities.
When a bather’s body is prunes, exfoliated, softened, and relaxed, he or she can adjourn to the locker room, outfitted with electronic lockers, showers, hair dryers, and constant maid services, to take a refreshing shower, douse one’s self in lotions and oils, and prepare for the rigors of the week.
Post Script: I borrowed a picture of the baths as it was snowing when we left, so the mix of snow and steam didn't bode well for our photos. If you'd like to read more about the Szechenyi Baths, visit the website at http://www.szechenyibath.com/.
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