The $6 Thai Wellness Ritual I’ll Never Give Up
Steam, cold plunge, green curry, and zero pretension—this is wellness, Thai style.
Living in Thailand has a way of redefining what constitutes everyday luxury. After a while, you stop noticing the little things—like buying a bag of fresh pineapple for thirty cents or having someone pump your gas while you stay in the car. These small conveniences seem unremarkable—until visitors arrive and begin pointing them out.
When my brother and sister visited me a few years ago, their constant refrain was: “I wish we had that at home.” From hand-sprays on the toilet to six-dollar foot massages, from spotless food courts with two-dollar meals to the sheer abundance of pampering, they were in awe. And to be honest, so was I, once I took the time to look around through their eyes again.
But of all the comforts Thailand offers, there’s one little indulgence that never gets old: my weekly visit to Jomtien Sauna.
A Tropical Oasis for the Body and Soul
Tucked away in a quiet lane near Jomtien Beach, Jomtien Sauna is not some high-priced, members-only health club. For just 200 baht (around $6), you’re handed a locker key, two towels, swimming shorts if needed, and bottomless ice water delivered in cheerful pink pitchers.
Wednesdays are “Ladies Day,” when women are welcomed free of charge—a gesture that says everything about the laid-back, inclusive vibe here.
Herbal Steam That Heals from the Inside Out
The heart of the experience is the herbal steam room, where clouds of scented vapor are infused with fresh lemongrass, galangal, and other Thai herbs grown in the owner’s garden. One breath is enough to clear your head; a few sessions will melt away the week’s tension and toxins.
Feeling run down? Hungover? Congested? This is where you come to reset. The thick steam clings to your skin and penetrates your lungs, offering the kind of cleansing you didn’t know you needed.
A Sauna Experience, Scandinavian Style
For those who prefer dry heat, there’s a traditional cedar-lined Finnish sauna just steps away. Spacious enough for a dozen guests, its tiered wooden benches allow you to find your comfort level while soaking in the intense, muscle-loosening warmth.
This is where time slows down. Conversations fade to whispers. And all that matters is your breath and the sweat glistening on your arms.
A Cold Plunge for the Brave
After roasting in the steam and sauna, the next stop is the saltwater pool, perfect for a few refreshing laps. Nearby are two cold plunge pools—one merely cool, the other ice cold. For the truly bold (or possibly mad), there’s even a newly installed ice bath.
It’s no surprise to see young fighters from the nearby Muay Thai gym steeling themselves for the plunge. It’s painful, invigorating, and oddly addictive.
Chill Spaces and Digital Comforts
Once you’ve recovered from the cold shock, head to the sun loungers or grab a shaded booth for your group. There’s a large covered seating area too, complete with tables, power outlets, and reliable Wi-Fi—perfect for digital nomads or those sneaking in a bit of remote work between sauna rounds.
A Menu That Pleases Every Mood
Eventually, the heat and swimming will leave you craving something delicious. Luckily, the onsite café serves up a surprisingly robust menu. From spicy Thai curries to smoothie bowls, fresh fruit shakes to cold beer, the food is as comforting as the surroundings.
Feeling healthy? Order a protein smoothie. Need to indulge? Grab a green curry and an ice-cold Singha … as we say in Thailand, “dtam jai”—up to you.
A Local Secret That Feels Like Luxury
This isn’t just a place to relax. It’s a place to recalibrate. Whether you’re kickstarting your morning or winding down a long week, Jomtien Sauna is a sanctuary where time slows, bodies heal, and stress melts away.
Back home in North America, this kind of experience would typically require a luxury club membership, strict dress codes, and numerous rules, rather than relaxation. Ordering a beer would be out of the question. And don’t even think about an ice bath without a six-month waiting list.
Final Dip, Final Thought
Last Sunday, as I towelled off from a bracing cold plunge and tucked into a plate of green curry chicken under the shade, I had one final thought before heading back to my condo:
“I bet they wish they had this at home.”
And honestly, they probably do.
— Bart Walters, IL Thailand Correspondent
Editor’s Note: If the idea of dropping pounds, de-stressing, and getting back in touch with your body—without even trying that hard—sounds appealing, you’ll want to read Barton’s full guide to getting healthy in Thailand. From street food hacks to budget-friendly detox retreats, it’s all right here.