A Public Spa
The Balneario Ixtapan (tel. 721/143-0331), next to the Hotel Spa Ixtapan, is the town's original public spa and bathhouse. It's not a modern, pampering spa, but a spa in the traditional manner -- think Turkish baths. Over the years, the balneario has melded its traditional thermal waters with some features that make it more of an aquatic park. In addition to the large pools of varying temperatures, it offers modern features such as water slides, a slow-moving river, and other attractions. Entrance is $16 (£8) for adults, $8 (£4) for children between .9m and 1.2m (3-4 ft.) tall; children under .9m (3 ft.) tall enter free. The balneario has restaurants, so you can spend the day. The entrance fee gives you access to all of the pools and rides. Lockers are about 50¢ (30p). It's open weekdays from 8am to 7pm and weekends from 7am to 7pm. The traditional spa amenities and services are next door, where you can choose among private thermal water baths, massages, facials, hair treatments, paraffin wraps, pedicures, and manicures. Prices range from $18 to $72 (£9-£36). When you purchase a spa treatment you can include access to the balneario for $7 (£3.50). The spa is open daily from 8am to 8pm during holiday periods; at other times, Monday through Friday from 8am to 8pm, Saturday and Sunday from 7am to 8pm.
