An interior view of Istanbul's Hurrem Sultan Hamam. Turkish baths typically have three main sections. - Hakan Akgun/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images EDITOR’S NOTE: This CNN Travel series is, or was, ...

Istanbul: Enveloped in the warm hush of a Turkish bath, the world outside ceases to exist. Gentle light filters through oculi, small “eyes” in the domed ceilings, tracing patterns on marble floors.

EDITOR’S NOTE: This CNN Travel series is, or was, sponsored by the country it highlights. CNN retains full editorial control over subject matter, reporting and frequency of the articles and videos ...