Bathhouse vs Spa: What's the Difference?

If you're new to the world of bathhouses and spas, you might think they are one in the same. Look closer and you will find that there is a fundamentally different world view expressed in bathhouses than in spas. There can be some overlap, but there are very different intentionalities, philosophies and intended outcomes between the two.

Bathhouses offer functionality over fluff, while spas provide an experience that we like to call “performative relaxation.”

Functionality over fluff

We think of bathhouses as facilitating transformation, leaving you better off than when you arrived. However, bathhousing is not necessarily a “relaxing” experience in itself. Sitting in a sauna can push your limits. Wearing a cucumber eye mask… not so much.

“Relaxation” massages, like you find at spas, focus on aromatherapy or hot stones and other pointless extras. Bathhouses typically provide efficacious treatments like deep tissue bodywork or exfoliating scrubs.

Social VS solitary experience

Bathhouses are all about communal gathering, with shared pools, saunas and steam rooms where people can socialize and recharge. Spas, on the other hand, typically only offer private treatment rooms where guests receive individual services, which tend to be isolating.

Although bathhouses usually provide treatments like massage and body scrubs in addition to shared pool and sauna amenities, spas rarely have communal areas.

Attractive pricing

The price point of bathhouses and spas can differ significantly. While both offer a range of services and amenities, bathhouses are more affordable and accessible. Spas, on the other hand, tend to be more expensive and upcharge you for the pretense of “exclusivity.”

Historical vs modern tradition

Finally, bathhouses have a long history, with rituals that have been passed down through time in many different parts of the world. The Hammams in Islamic culture, for example, and hundreds of bathhouses in our home base of New York City, existed to cleanse both body and mind. 

On the other hand, spas are a more of a modern concept, often integrated without much thought into hotels, or with a focus on “bio-hacking” and other recently developed experimental therapies.

Even though modern plumbing has made bathing accessible at home, there is still a need – now more than ever – to reconnect with ourselves and others around us. Humans are their best selves when they’re part of a community. Since bathhouses are social places, lots of our guests like to sauna in pairs or with a couple of friends. So, come on in… the water’s fine.