Think different - Okeanos Spa is not your ordinary banya. No kids running around, no guys swilling down the beer, no ma's with thermoses, no TV's with Russian channels, but just a few people enjoying themselves in a spa with a Russian flavor. Andre Izrailov - a co owner of Okeanos Spa is a pleasure to deal with. And always classy Angela - the spa manager ensures that every client is treated like a celebrity, which can be not far from the truth - some Russian hockey players, ballet dancers and models are regulars there.
The spa is geared towards men - from masculine stone and wood decor to the selection of treatments. Men can take care of themselves and still feel like men - they are in banya after all! There is also a cigar room that was probably meant to balance the healing effect of the spa. Okeanos has two (only one is opened at the moment) cozy Russian steam rooms (no shvitz thankfully) and a "Turkish" steam room, but unfortunately no pool or cold plunge. Everything is brand new with a pleasant feel of luxury. The platza master knows his business well (ask for Ruslan on Thursdays - he is outstanding) and the stove is good - making enjoyable, not oppressive steam that doesn't burn, but thoroughly warms your body. The stove is quite small though, so the steam room becomes rather cold and wet when place gets a lot of people like Saturday nights.
Okeanos is more a spa than a banya and the owners emphasize that in pricing. It makes more sense to spend $120+ on platza with massage or facial and use the banya facilities with no additional fee, than to pay $90 just for an admission. Okeanos does not serve food, but they do offer tea. And complimentary glass of champagne or a shot of vodka are available with every package. The staff is great - attentive, neat and polite.
Check their web site for specials. Right now on Thursdays for just $50 you can enjoy all of the facilities, live Jazz and some great Russian bear.
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