I’ll never tire of a basic deep tissue or Swedish massage, but when I heard that Aire Ancient Bath was opening its first U.S. location in Tribeca (it’s a Spanish chain, which launched in the ’90s inside a 16th century palace in Seville), I couldn’t wait to try it. The idea behind this uniquely luxurious spa is to induce relaxation through water. It’s inspired by the ancient Green and Roman thermal baths and their 16,000 square foot space is stunningly gorgeous – it doesn’t take long before you completely forget that you’re in NYC. The baths work in two-hour intervals within which you can make your way through the various pools at your own discretion. They’ve got: an ice pool (46ºF), cold pool (61ºF), warm pool (97ºF), hot pool (102ºF), salt-water pool as well as a Propeller-Jet Bath (97ºF), a Steam Room, and a Relaxation Room, where you can rest on heated marble stones with tea, water, or juice. You can also opt to add in a  15, 30, 45, or 60 minute massage or a 45 or 60 minute four-hand massage.

Sure the whole thing is a little gimmicky, but it’s one of the most memorable experiences you can have and a super fun (not to mention relaxing!), thing to do with friends or a significant other. I went at 7pm with my brother who was in town for the week and we both loved it. 7-9pm is among their busiest time slots, but we didn’t feel cramped at all. Better yet it won’t break the bank at around $100 for the two hour bath experience with a 15 minute massage. Check-out more details here.