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Harbin Hot Springs
Rating Details »
Categories: Day Spas, Bed & Breakfast, Massage
18424 Harbin Springs RdMiddletown, CA 95461
(707) 987-2477
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
- By Appointment Only:
- No
77 reviews for Harbin Hot Springs
"They're RIDICULOUSLY arrogant here. Apparently being a skinny vegetarian hippie makes you some kind of god.
I'm not crazy about their food, to be honest. I guess breakfast is good, but dinner... meh. Sometimes, they have some REALLY good food; Their mashed potatoes are absolutely heavenly, but I usually find that their menu items are for the most part bland and boring. The food is almost always very healthy, though.
That being said I love the way I feel when I emerge from this place. The pools are so nice and make me so relaxed. It's really beautiful and it's something I think everyone should experience..."
Went here with a couple of friends a month ago. I have mixed feelings about this place. The location is beautiful. The wild greenery, mostly untouched nature, and the clean air are overwhelming. The various pools that you can plunge into are wonderful. Ability to come back with no tan lines is fun. Trying and thoroughly enjoying watsu massage was very nice. But...
What's will all the hippie wanabes? OK, you want to pretend to be a hippie, fine, I'll pretend to be straight. But how about you take a shower before entering the pool? Perhaps use deodorant prior to entering public areas? Oh, I'm sorry, you don't know what deodorant is... Never mind. The people who work there seem to be from another planet, or, at the very least, different specie! Come on, I'll be the first one to try on a stylish wrap, but the "cloths" they wear are beyond comprehension or description!
Change the some of the visitors and ALL the employees and this would become a wonderful place.
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I have mixed feelings about Harbin. I came here with three girlfriends and overall, we had a very nice time together eliminating our tan lines. The concept is absolutely unbeatable and the facility is situated in a beautiful spot. The pricing is very reasonable and I like how it's a place I could spontaneously arrive at from the city with very little planning...everything you need is there...food, kitchen, showers, bathrooms, rooms, sleeping decks...just grab a sleeping bag, hop in the car and drive two hours north!
All that being said, I couldn't help but to notice that this place is full of hippies who take themselves WAY TOO seriously. I love clothing-optional environments and have tons of hippie tendencies myself, and am not the type to go around ragging on hippies. But this wasn't really my crowd. I was expecting people to be very friendly and welcoming here, but instead encountered somewhat of a stand off-ish vibe that often bordered on hostile, from both the staff and from other guests. I also can't get on board with the whole no alcohol policy. I get that they don't want it to be a party environment, okay...but c'mon, really??!
we camped overnight sunday to monday. I would also never go here again on a weekend day... the sheer amount of people crowding the decks and the pools completely defeated the "zen" quality of the environment for me. We did meet one or two cool people in the kitchen while we were making dinner, including a guy who had a really cute son and could walk on his hands and who - i kid you not - had about 15 penis/balls piercings. He had piercings in places that I never knew one could pierce! That guy was practically the highlight of the trip!
All in all, I will definitely come here again. I will come on a monday or a tuesday, most likely. Maybe with a guy...if I can manage to find one who doesn't have any hang-ups about nudity! I will just approach the experience with a different energy next time around, now knowing what it's all about. And despite my criticisms, in the end I am infinitely thankful that I live in a place where I can easily access places like Harbin Hot Springs. It's pretty cool!
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The guy at the entrance was so rude and condescending that I almost left. I would have done so except that my friends arrived earlier and were already inside. Was he trained to speed-talk through the parking instructions and rules and then correct you with a snotty comment when you asked a question? Was he not trained to even offer an activities guide? My friends said they also had a bad experience with the staff. Harbin staff really, really, REALLY doesn't care if you like them or not. Such an attitude after you've driven so far is not the right vibe to start on. Yes, it ruined the visit. I recommend going elsewhere and/or complaining to the management if you experience such treatment. Getting in touch with your "Church of Earth" or whatever and that crappy treatment just don't mix. REALLY!!!
A suggestion: prior to going, call them and ask what their customer service policy is. I'm sure you'll want to take your money and need to relax elsewhere because they will tell you to your face that they just don't care. Then, post here to save others the trouble.
This place is a joke!
The Watusi I had was a complete waste of time. Getting pushed around in the water, so what? Looking for transformation? Try a Lomi massage!
The staff is rude, the service is horrible, to food is the worst ever.
On my fist trip I had an Ipod and ear rings stolen from my locked room. The staff are the only ones with keys.
The pools.... well if you go at night when you can't see all the hair and crap floating in them. Don't go during the day or you'll be grossed out.
There's no talking allowed so people can meditate in the pools.. ya right! No one is meditating. There's plenty of guys with erections walking around, asking if they can practice their Watusi on you. Tons of groping going on in the name of Watusi, even though there's a sign saying no sexual activity.
You can't make any noise without someone telling you to be quiet, but on the other hand there's loud music from their "temple" , staff talking loud on their walky talky's, and people stomping around in the buildings at all hours of the night.
It's so depressing and repressive it makes me sick.
They have completely lost the idea of joy and happiness in exchange for Nazi like domination.
The "I'm more enlightened than you are" attitude of most of the regulars makes me want to puke. The energy of the people with all their crap is offensive.
I've been there twice now for workshops and that is the last time I'll ever go to Harbin. If you facilitate workshops have it some place else!
PLEASE, don't waste your time going to this wanna be, poser, hippy commune!
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This is a really wonderful place to visit - very peaceful, relaxing, and they have lots of wonderful classes/workshops. I was a little skeptical reading some of the other reviews, but this place is truly special.
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I can understand the different reviews for Harbin. My husband and I have been going there since the late 1980s. There have been times we left a day early because of the people -visitors/staff; and then there have been times when we stayed an extra night we were so relaxed. It's a toss up. the new age hippie elite attitude came along gradually. they booted out all the real hippies when they got their financial backing and fixed the place up. then the staff became snotty. I haven't been in ages. last time we booked a tent cabin and decided not to go at the last minute. had to pay $97 to stay home. sometimes the nudity feels invasive mentally
When I left Harbin, I was more zen than I have been in my entire life. I got to do yoga in the temple in the morning, eat an immaculate breakfast overlooking the trees, and I enjoyed the almost-strictly vegetarian atmosphere.
That being said, there were some issues I had with the place. When we were checking in, the older guy in the gatehouse was REALLY rude. We forgot a flashlight, but my significant other has a flashlight on his (REALLY OLD) cell phone. When we stated this, he got huffy and insisted there were to be no cell phones because there were to be no pictures. My boyfriend's phone can't take pictures! It's a dinosaur! He wouldn't hear us out and was very short with us, even raising his voice.
Also: $35 a person to CAMP? In addition to the $10 "membership fee"....seems steep for what you're getting: ultra-cramped camping around a LOT of poison oak.
My only other gripe is the type of people that these places sometimes attract: over-rich snobs. At breakfast, we had the *delight* of hearing two BMW owners jerking each other off about their "ultra-impressive" cars. Gag me.
Also, the labyrinth is a joke.
The place still warrants four out of five stars, though. I was completely nude all around the springs and felt absolutely comfortable. It was well-maintained. It was GORGEOUS! It felt AMAZING! I was able to completely meditate in the trees without any restrictions, and no one bothered me. I was comfortable and relaxed and I felt very at-peace with everything by the time we drove out of there. We've decided to buy a year membership and drive the four-hours every now and then.
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The hot pool/ cold pool rotation is my cure for life's challenges. Third time's the charm. Harbin offers the best low-key mini vaca around. Movies are free, kitchen use is free, camping is free. The overnight pass is the only true expense for bliss.
Everyone else has put forth apt descriptions of what awaits visitors to Harbin, so I thought I'd share 21 things I've learned after five or so visits:
1. Sleeping on the deck under the stars is fab as long as you can deal with a few inconveniences: be prepared for the dew, a lot of people snoring, and the shakiness of the platform that happens every time someone walks around. I loved staying on the deck, but I can see how people would hate it.
2. Do not put anything loose in the guest fridge. People will put their shit on top of it and it will become impossible to find.
3. Fat guys in Hawaiian print muumuus make the fluffiest pancakes in the world.
4. One of the best spots at Harbin is the lush lawn in front of the guestrooms. Nice diffused sunlight, chill people, and occasionally a really talented ukulele player will serenade fellow lawn sitters.
5. The storefront room off the library above the restaurant is absolutely wonderful. On a chilly night (which is almost every night), grab a book from the library, or bring your own, and find a cozy chair. You are not supposed to sleep in there, but I've done it on several occasions and no one has ever said anything. The second best public bathrooms in the whole place are right outside this room.
6. La Sirena Cafe outside the large swimming pool is very solid. The fig & brie sandwich and the smoothies are always delish, and the people that work there are total sweethearts. The best and most private public bathroom at Harbin is right behind it.
7. A large majority of the "residents" are weirdos.
8. I have not had a good massage at Harbin, and I've spoken to a lot of other people who feel the same.
9. If you have a sunburn DO NOT go in the super hot pool.
10. The movies Harbin shows never float my boat, but the theater is a nice cuddle room filled with pillows.
11. Fur pie doesn't sell. Trim your shit!!
12. You can't judge a guy's book by its cover.
13. There is no such thing as a good boob job.
14. Turns out hot Germans exist after all!
15. White people who parade around in turbans and yogi garb make me want to barf.
16. Heather Salmon is quite possibly the most beautiful woman I've ever seen in person. I went through a new age woo woo bullshit New Moon ceremony she led just to watch her play the prayer bowls.
17. Too much sun and bad posture do not an attractive older person make.
18. Dr. Bronner's soap is great.
19. The hidden cafe behind the library is the cheapest place to get food. They have decent breakfast burritos that are less than $5.
20. The minerals in the water make my hair stiff and ugly...I've heard other people complain about this as well.
21. There is a faucet/water fountain next to the warm pool that taps directly from a clean, running stream. The water from it is delicious.
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Now back to Harbin in 09 I love the updates those, "place is showing it's age" lines no longer apply. I LOVE the updates my only wish would be a 24 hour sauna (I can appreciate the cost of the electricity but @ $100/Night I need a 24 hour sauna.) I hiked for miles uphill past the RV park and later soaked my tired sore legs in the very hot (115 Degree) hot pool the cool pool has been upgraded the sauna is about 8X8 and is adequate when less than 5 people are in there. ALL in all I really loved it. I dismiss the reports of "rude " staff albeit my check in guy was a bit aloof. Check out gal was friendly as were the folks at guard shack. Try it out but leave your suit at home no one here wears one. If that sounds bizarre your should try it out and you won't either
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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12/28/2008
Nothing compares to Harbin...definitely not a mainstream place... nearly everyone there enjoys the… Read more »
This is a review for the Watsu - shiatsu in the warm pool. There has been plenty written here about Harbin as a whole, gorgeous, but ya gotta roll with the counter culture vibe, etc...But if you go, then do yourself a favor and schedule a Watsu...it was developed here and it is wonderful...This kind of bodywork speaks to my mind, body and spirit, putting everything into delicious perspective, I feel healed, whole, and relaxed right down inside my cells...pure heaven with a therapeutic bent.
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Just got back from a mid-week, overnight stay.
Overall: decent, not mind-blowing. I'd go again, probably for a day trip, rather than overnight.
The tubs are ok. None of the pools is at the "right" temperature for a hot tub - 104-105 degrees. The warm pools are just warm, and the "hot" tub is really, really, hot. I don't get it.
Most people in the pool area are naked, but as many as 10% are not. That surprised me, but it does mean that you needn't let your shyness about public nudity get in the way of a visit. You will not be the only non-naked person there.
Speaking of naked people, few to none of the people at Harbin bear any resemblance to Brad Pitt or Liz Hurley. If you go expecting to be titillated, you will be disappointed.
Yes, it's mostly, but not all, white people.
The bathroom situation is quite decent - best bathrooms I found are next to the library.
The food in the cafes is over priced and just ok. I have to disagree with the previous reviewer who give the fig sandwich a big thumbs up.
Recycling and composting seem an afterthought.
The market is very well stocked. You could show up with nothing and buy the fixings for quite a decent cook-it-yourself meal. The kitchen is well-stocked with pots and pans, with many burners - easy to use.
I did not sense the sexual vibe that other reviewers have mentioned. Sure, some couples cuddled in the pool, but it wasn't an orgy.
Men outnumber women. And my friend, whose gaydar may be more acute than mine, commented that many of them were gay. Certainly, they were highly pierced.
Even on a Wednesday-Thursday, Harbin was crowded. Not packed, like Woodstock, but I wouldn't want to be there on a weekend.
The staff, at the front desk and elsewhere, were uniformly friendly and helpful. I understand that others have experienced "attitude," but that's not universal.
Compared to Esalen, I'd say the vibe is one of "do your own thing/with the people you came with." Mingling with strangers is not the standard, as it is at Esalen.
Pet peeves: Yuppies ignoring "No Shoes" signs in the library, and eating ham sandwiches in the kitchen. I mean, how desperate is your meat craving?! Jeez.
My friend and I were very underwhelmed by the new moon ceremony. We'd rather have had some dance.
And for those who have read this far, your winning tip: if you'll be sleeping on the top deck. arrange your sleeping bags against the far railing when you arrive, so that you are not awaked by late night creaking of planks by folks entering and leaving.
I want to give this place 3.5 stars, but ... grading inflation.
It is worth checking out Harbin on a day trip. $25 is a deal. But ... this is no Esalen.
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I just came home from my visit at Harbin Hot Springs, and am already looking forward to my next visit.
The Pros:
1. Our choice of lodging: We splurged and stayed in one of the large Domes for 2 nights, which consisted of an immaculate (and beautifully painted) large bedroom complete with skylights and lots of room to lounge and relax. The bathrooms were separate, although a half-bath was located right next to our room. Very clean! Not too many other people were staying in the Domes (we stayed Monday - Wednesday), so it was WONDERFULLY quiet and relaxing. There is a downstairs full kitchen that was really clean and spacious, but we opted to eat at the kitchen rather than cooking our own food. We will probably bring our own food and cook in the kitchen in the future (More on that below). The Dome pools are primarily used for Watsu sessions and training during the day, but we (and other Dome residents only) were allowed to use the pools from 9pm-9am. Spectacular. I would highly recommend staying in the Domes.
2. The Watsu: I have had lots of different modalities of bodywork performed on me before, but had yet to try Watsu. My Watsu practitioner, Patti, was absolutely fantastic and clearly explained what I should expect, and to relax and enjoy it. Enjoy it, I did! I was pretty much a wet noodle (no pun intended) by the end, and will admit that I spontaneously burst into tears at the end of the session - the session was a huge emotional release (in a good way!). My practitioner was also topless, but I don't really have issues with naked people, so it wasn't a problem for me. Patti DID SPECIFICALLY ask me if I would prefer her to wear a bathing suit. So if you're really worried about it, SAY SOMETHING.
3. The soaking pools (of course!): I, like others, didn't know the extent to which people prefer nudity at this resort, but it was pretty clear once we walked up to the pools. The nudity didn't really bother me, and I could care less if people trim or not, because honestly, I'm not staring at everyone's junk or lady bits. I am very comfortable with my body, and don't have any issues with people seeing me naked and vice versa. I will say that I did see women wearing bathing suit bottoms (I did one day so my lil' white arse wouldn't get burned), so if you're self-conscious, wear a suit! My boyfriend wore a speedo the whole time. Who cares if you are in the minority? As far as I'm concerned, I'm there for relaxation, not for worrying about what people are wearing (or, what they are NOT wearing). I would say - suspend your judgement before coming, because it will only detract from your experience.
Moving on...the pools are the best part by far. Yes, people perform watsu in the warm meditation pool, but I didn't find it a huge issue at all. The hot hot hot pool - YOWIEE - it was a shocker, and made my body tingle (like pins and needles) - make sure to stay hydrated! Then plunging into the cold pool was amazing. Definitely worthwhile! Again, being able to use the Dome pools late at night was spectacular because only the Dome residents can use it, which = you have the pools pretty much to yourself.
4. The grounds: Very clean and gorgeous - the peacefulness was palpable upon stepping on the Harbin grounds.
5. The Kitchen: We had breakfast once and dinner twice at the Kitchen. Scrumptious foods, with options for meat-eaters and veggies alike. Huge portions!
To sum up the pros: gorgeous place, loved the Domes, the pools and the food. While I'm not a "new age hippie", I could appreciate the place for the meditative and peaceful quality.
The Cons:
1. The cost of food: We spent a bit of money to stay at the Domes, and were rather surprised by the cost of food, not only at the market, but also at the kitchen. Granted, the Kitchen only served breakfast and dinner, so if you go by the fact that you're only eating 2 meals a day, it's not so terrible. But $5+ for a bowl of granola/raisins/walnuts and $8+ for a breakfast burrito? Or $24 for Ahi Tuna or Chicken Curry? My boyfriend and I are both foodies, so we can appreciate fine food, but none of it was worth the cost. Delicious? Yes. Too pricey? Yes.
2. The yoga. Sorry, I'm a yoga snob. I was really excited to take the intermediate yoga session in the morning, but was sorely disappointed - probably because it was slow, and there was nothing intermediate about it. The chanting was lost on most of the people, which was sad.
3. Whispering in the meditative pools. Yep, there's nothing Harbin can really do about this, but really people, shut your traps when you're in the meditation pools.
Overall, loved it and will definitely return in the future.
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Harbin is a heavenly, magical place . we are truly lucky to live to close to get away from city-life once in a while. i've been going here for many years at random times (twice this month so far). the water is ancient, full of minerals and super good for you to soak in. people have flocked to these waters for centuries to cure ailments. the water is drawn from local springs and 50,000 gallons flow through the place every day. it is filtered and chlorine free and amazing for your skin.
The grounds are extensive, tons of hiking trails and places to chill. there are also several buildings to hang out (library, chill out space, yoga temple), many sundecks to grab some vitamin D (minus the tan-lines), 3 yoga classes daily, massages, special workshops and dance events all the time. for sleeping there are plenty of options too (tent, dorm, private rooms, dome, tent cabins, etc) or you can just go up for the day. if you can get there during the week it is certainly less crowded.
There is a really good restaurant for breakfast and dinner, serving both veg and carnivorous items (can be a bit pricey tho). alternately you can bring your own food and cook in the vegetarian kitchen, or grab something in the store. coffee served in the cafe all day.
Clothing is OPTIONAL around the pools and sauna. and YES you will probably feel out of place in a bathing suit. of course there can be the random creep that can't stop staring as if they have never seen a naked person. and of course you might see more private parts hangin in one place than ever before, but who cares? if you sense the creepy guy checking you out i recommend little or no eye contact. most fun to go with a significant other or group of friends...as long as they aren't nudie-phobes!
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OMG how could I have forgotten to review Harbin Hot Springs? I love this place. Yes it's a bit crunchy but go anyway. Your soul -- and your tan lines -- will thank you.
What my husband and I like to do is to get thoroughly poached in the boiling hot water, and then jump in the cold water. I am convinced this is the secret to long life.
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2 or 3 stars... that was the question.
What I learned at Harbin:
1. I don't like hippies
2. Hippies suck at service (but don't mind charging tons for a room)
3. The water is gorgeous
4. There are lots of hills
5. I like turkeys
6. I like young coconut milk
The story is is that my gf had been wanting to bring me here for a VERY long time. Our long anticipated arrival last year was stopped by a death in her family which cut our vacation short.
So, it had been on the agenda for a loooong time.
I already had my concerns about the "hippy" vibe but, gosh, I am a relatively open person and a bit of a freak myself so I figured I could handle it. I am sure not all "hippies" are rude and self centered and unaware of their surroundings. But, I think I only encountered 1 or 2 of them at harbin out of a hundred or so.
Anyway, the water was nice. The deep warm pool was funny to me. I am short and couldn't stand up. So, my gf had to carry me everywhere. I liked that. And I liked all the gravity free holding we could do. Though both my gf and I experienced butts as ballons syndrome. Meaning, if you have a fat butt, it will try to float to the top. Amusing at times.
I liked whishing my gf around in the heart (and less deep) pool.
It was nice for me to get into two different pools. I am very heat sensitive so often I can't do hot water type stuff.
It annoys me that they don't have a community kitchen for carnivores. I need to eat protein frequently and unfortunately can't eat eggs or nuts or tofu. My gf and I did figure out a system that would get us the meat we wanted but it was annoying to not have a place to cook.
I am sure my gf and I will go back. She loves it there. Now, if only we could really get those hippies to be self aware and evolved...
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How Harbin would be if it were run by Suzanne...by Suzanne
1. The food would be cheaper. Honestly, Seared Ahi...$24? I hopeit's because tuna's going extinct...hmm...the chicken yesterday was the same price, so I doubt it.
2. No one....I mean NO ONE...sleeps in the new lounge even if it means it gets locked at 1am. They leave it unlocked all night and posted signs about how security will bust the hippies who sleep there, but we all know that's crap. The hippies will sleep there because they want to sleep on a nice couch for free, and pretty soon, all those couches will stink. Doesn't really bother me because I don't care for the decor...it remind me of my parents house.
3. No lame watsu in the middle of a crowded tepid pool on a Saturday. You guys are killing me...and get your lame, dread-headed girlfriend's foot out of my face. BONK...oh, that was just Creepy Old Guy giving the poor 20-something single girl a watsu she didn't have the nerve to say no to. And while we're on the subject...
4. Single guys must pretend we all have our clothes on. Just because we're naked does not mean we want to do you even though....we know...we're halfway there. Whether is "do you want a grape?" or "Can I give you a massage?" Geez, what is this...Burning Man? I watched four single 20something girls on a weekend together barely get a moment's peace all weekend. Nothing is more fascinating at Harbin than single women in groups. One of them's got to go for the guy...right? My husband abandoned me in the pool on a Sunday, and suddenly, all single guys' eyes went to me. I should have pulled out a hat and tap danced...but I was naked.
5. Grow food in the garden, and serve it. They have acreage for gardens, and the best of my knowledge, don't serve anything they grow in their restaurant. I'm from Davis, and that's a crying shame. In fact, there wasn't much of anything in the garden, tho it is August. I noticed lots of dead berries on the bushes...didn't anyone pick berries?
What would I keep? Everything else...especially the wild turkeys. But leave your Wild Turkey at home...there's no drinkin'.
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I don't know if it was the company or the weather or that Harbin is a great place to be, but I had the best weekend I have had in a long time!!!
I went with my two best friends and I did not want to come back. I am not someone to be comfortable naked in front of people, but somehow this place made it easy. I recommend getting a massage. All of us had different masseuses and we all loved them!
The food at the restaurant was great. There are ways of making the trip less expensive. Plan ahead and you can keep it on budget!
Enjoy!
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I was born and raised in San Francisco and I just made it to Harbin at the age of 40. It was a great way to celebrate graduating from law school. Met and had great conversations with many strangers, local and from abroad. Clothing-optional, camping or dorms, exquisite piece of nature, access to massages, communal kitchen, free movies/concerts, no cell phones/Internet...all for $35 for 24 hours...just go!
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i love being able to be in a place where i can get a decent tan (an no tan lines). i dont find many creepy guys staring at me, honestly i think the nudity thing is a non-issue.
earlier this month, i had my third visit to Harbin. i reminisced.
first time was 6 years ago when i had just met my man. we drove to SF to visit his dad and on the way stopped by Harbin for a night. it was magical and romantic, especially with a large moon in the sk - i had a later massage (NLP) from Nierakar, which was one of the better treatments ive had, although Nierakar is an odd duck he is great at what he does. i was emotionally opened and physically relaxed after the service when i got to join my love in the warm pool and hold each other by the light of the moon, in silence.
the second time was 3 1/2 yrs ago when i came for a workshop. it was an amazing workshop that i dont need to go into here, and we actually didnt soak much but we DID dine in the restaurant on the last day. i remember being pleasantly surprised by the salmon...although as one other person pointed out, WOW was it overpriced. still, it hit the spot after an intense weekend.
the third time was a few weeks ago. the 112 degree hot pool/60 degree cold pool was just as amazing as ever. the trick is to stay in the cold long enough until you cant tell if its cold or hot and then all of a sudden your head is floating and you are in another dimension of tranquility and someone rings the chimes. (im not some crazy new ager, you just need to go try it, seriously)...this time we camped right by the creek and it was heavenly.
on another note, i was pleasantly surprised by the food offerings of the health food store (downstairs). not wanting heavy cooked foods on our day of detox, we went down to the store to find freshly made, RAW VEGAN coconut berry smoothies, fresh organic fruit, etc. my son loves muffins and so hes not raw, but they did have some amazing honey-sweetened muffin that he loved. they also make awesome raw soups, have a great salad bar for lunch and also make raw crackers.
why i didnt give 5 stars - yes, like another reviewer said, why cant they garden and use the produce in their kitchen? my partner told me its because no one gives a f***. i'd like to think he's wrong.
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okay, so yes . .. it's hippy. But . . . it's LOVELY! (I recommend the dorms)
First time I went, it was for the 4 year anniversary of my mom's passing. It was a great way to get away, appreciate life, and to detox (my husband hates that word, so don't be offended quite yet).
I did yoga, swimming, massage, hikes, healthy food, sleep. Life was great.
My second time . . . decompressing from my dad's death (3 months ago). I just turned 28 and found myself asking "why me, it's not fair." For answers? i went to harbin. Upon leaving, I'm asking myself, "how am I so lucky"? I love my husband, love my job, love my apartment, love my cat, and of course, I LOVE MY LIFE! How could I be so lucky???
That's what Harbin did/does for me. If you need that, get over the nakedness now and live/love life. It's well worth the windy road.
ps. love you mom and dad!
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A friend took me Harbin in 1988. I was thrilled to experience the fresh air, the classes, the waters and the sense of relaxtion.
I like the fact that they put money back into the facitlity by building a new temple , walkways, paths etc.
I like the food. It's pricey so I get the rice and veggies which is enough for 2 people.
My biggest concern is the lack of pools . It's too fucking crowded., The warm pool is disgusting with hair floating around and 35 people shoulder to shoulder.. and bodyworker and guests doing "cocksu" or "watsu" in the middle of it all. Build some new bloody pools!!!!!!!!!!!!! I'll pay the extra $5 to get in if I can avoid having a guys balls in my face or a snatch needing mowing! And please, put your residents through a customer relations program. I'm a paying customer. If they want to howl at the moon on their time is fine but don't fuckin howl at me even if I ask a dumb question.
Maybe the residents are trying to work through issues and have "stuff" going on.. But the "clique" atmosphere is almost like high school. I'll bet getting the residents to work is the biggest accomplishment of the day. The rooms and showers are borderline filthy.
I would recommend going there. But there are hot springs out there that are worthy of a visit. I think competition is good. Wilbur rocks.
Hope Avalon is good. ...
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I woke up on my birthday with my bf saying:
"i have the day planned for you...let's go...".
Drive 1hr 20min from San Francisco not knowing where we were headed...and then....sign greets us: HARBIN Hot Springs!! aka Heaven!
Simply the most magical bday ---massage by Elizabeth and mineral pool plunges!!! romantic, special, memorable, relaxing!!
Harbin has all the amenities for a surprise pop in visit such as flip flop shoes/water/towels/etc...all the things my bf didn't pack but of course that was part of the spontaneous fun-filled adventurous part of the day!!
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i just returned from a week stay at harbin. i was a bit concerned before going after reading the reviews concerning staff, hippies, and the problems in the pool areas. to start with the staff, from the gate guard to the check-in person to the sales person at the market were more than friendly, kind, and pleasent. the room was clean and well kept. the grounds were clean and the temple and retreat center looked like ski lodges. the "hippies" were gentle and caring people who seemed to have a better outlook on life than most of the 9 to 5 workaholics i have known in my life. ahhhhh and let us not forget the sex in the hot tubs. what sex? i saw a lot of couples holding each other and snuggling and, what some may have interpreted as lude, to me was more warmth, love and caring--something there is just too little of in the world these days. you can go to the ritz and find jerks and i am sure you can go to harbin and find jerks. maybe it's just at harbin the jerks aren't so noticable to the people who come here, they are they to relax, unwind and be gentle. thank you harbin
For the price, one shouldn't expect much... Most spa's charge twice the price. And this is why...
The good points...
The hot spring pools are AWESOME... I was told to do the Cold Plunge first, then HOT plunge. If you do this a few times in a row, it's delightful. I could have lived in the hot plunge if I could. Delightful.
The Massage Therapists... KUDOS! I got a Lome Lome massage from Sylvie who was incredible. The kinks in my back are almost extinct.
The nice girl in the coffee shop who does the doggie paintings... A TOTAL DOLL... I can't remember her name, but she was the one of the most genuine folks that we met. Just a total sweetheart.
And one of the therapists who had lunch with my mom and I was also a great lady. Totally genuine and pretty normal. I also can't remember her name, but we had a good laugh about shopping too much and living in the clutter that we purchase. She also eats meat! Hurrah!!
The grounds are beautiful, the air is fresh.... and it is a great place to paint or sketch. The temple is also beautiful, and I got the pleasure of listening to a cellist play before the yoga class. So amazing.
The LAUGHING GODDESS vendor... super cute clothes... not all tie-dye and 60's throw backs. Really hip dresses & cute yoga clothes. Definitely overpriced, but I love to support sole proprietors, especially if they're female.
The reasons why it's only TWO STARS....
The other pools? Lame. The tepid pool was always packed, with many leering eyes. Stay away. Unless it's really early in the morning (that's when my mom went... and she said it was fine) And what's up with the poolside cafe? I really don't want to look at your saggy balls or shaved snatch while I try to have lunch. Cover it up to dine, it's just courtesy.
The grounds... though beautiful, if you are a bit out of shape, have bad knees or ankles, or anything else that makes trekking up stairs and hills difficult... BE WARNED. I should have had the massage therapist work on my knees, because they were wrecked after my mere 2 night, 3 day retreat. And I hike the Oakland hills of the time, but this was over the top.
I was warned about the nudity... but I had NO IDEA that it was almost required! To feel like an oddball because you have boundaries and regard your body as private... I find hypocritical. I did go topless in the plunge... but nobody's gonna leer at my bush except my boyfriend or my gynecologist.
WATSU massage... this is what this place is known for... and it was LAME. It started out kind of cool, until my naked massage therapist (who "forgot" her bathing suit!!) brushed her nipple against me a few times... She lost me... and the rest just felt creepy and invasive. Longest half hour of my life. Never again.
The part that really bugged me... the thing that still gives me a raw feeling in my stomach... was the rudeness of many of the "residents" or as I like to call them- THE STAFF!
My mother went to this so-called "resort" because she is injured and has been suffering from many health issues. She NEEDS help with her luggage, she NEEDS help up the hill. Did anyone offer? Did anyone help? Not so much....
Other guests extended themselves to us, one woman working as a gardener offered us a ride with my mom's bags up to her second floor room... NOT HER JOB... but she was very sweet. But the attitude-full hippies in the office would rather sit on their asses counting the minutes until they can be naked- CAN YOU LIFT A FINGER TO HELP? and what about SECURITY???? Supposedly there is security around monitoring the grounds... I never saw a single person. Awesome.
The communication is miserable. I understand the "no cell phone" rule. But would it be so hard to install phones in the rooms? What if there was an emergency? The office closes at 5pm!! I have been trying to help my mom arrange a ride to the airport (she choose to stay longer) and it's been a total nightmare because of the lack of communication. The lazy staff can't even walk their asses up the hill to leave a note for the guests... Whatev... I guess you get what you pay for!
And the immense attitude of the woman working in the restaurant... GET OVER YOURSELF! I don't know the rules... I JUST GOT HERE... Don't treat me like an idiot...
Would I go back to Harbin? Not by choice. I would probably only go with my boyfriend (so I'd feel more secure when dudes & chicks stare at my 36 C's ) but I would opt to pay more and get treated a bit more like a human at many of the higher end hot springs.
On the plus side, my mom seems to really like it. She is so nice & sweet, she barely notices the attitude... or she just chooses to ignore it. All well... perhaps she's a better person for it!
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The Road to Enlightenment is only 2 hours away.
There is no other place like it in the world. Truly a gift to everyone who goes there.
This rustic resort only keeps getting better and better, new temple, new pool, new saunas, new hotel rooms... if you haven't explored it lately it is worth exploring again. Don't just go in the summer either, there is a big secret and that secret is that the winters at Harbin are quiet and sublime.
Harbin is a very healing place if you can get by your own stuff...
Harbin is a place to expand one's self, get over fears, and society's mores... but it is only a gift if you use it.
There is one warning, if you are an attractive woman you may get attention... how you handle that attention is up to you and may be part of your growth.
ps.
~take a workshop... any of them... hai, tantra, yoga, dance, always a good way to open your senses.
~also talk to a resident sometime... connecting with these good people can be a fascinating way to get out of yourself and expand your experience in this world.
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I am a one-time-only guest of Harbin Hot Springs.
So, I was taken here by one of my hippie-converted pals a couple of years ago. I was told it was "clothing optional"... but, really, it's a nudist colony. I looked ridiculous walking around in my skull-PJs.
Seriously, if you don't go naked, you stand out way more.
This particular day was where I had my first ever professional massage. The lady's name was Gloria and she mashed me into an orgasmic pulp of flesh. I held back tears and told her I was about to cry when she began doing my feet and she told me to "let the tears flow"..so I did. I felt ridiculous sobbing on her massage table like a big baby, but she said she was honored. She gave me a big hug afterwards and told me to enjoy the sun. She did warn me to wash off before I laid out, as the insects would be drawn to the essential oils on my nakedness.
So, ignored her warning and I set up shop next to this lesbian couple (with the hugest fucking bushes I have ever ever seen). They were lotioning each other up as I soaked up rays.
All of a sudden.. I felt something pinching or biting my left nipple.
I looked down and it was one of those big-assed, black, fuzzy, demon bees. He was trying to extract juicy goodness from my nipple. AHHHHHHHHHHH get it off get it off..HELP!! Save me.. Why oh Why does Mother Nature hate my guts?
The bush women quickly came to my rescue as I screamed like a horror-film vixen. One of them flicked the bee off, grabbed my titty and told me I was stinger-free. I was totally disoriented, as I seriously hate bees and I was surprised I didn't faint at the sight of one on my boob.
The bush woman told me to 'give it love' and go to the nurse.
The nurse found nothing seriously wrong and she too told me to 'give it love'.
I left to find my friend smoking in the parking lot and I told him we had to go. I then told him why and he was quick to hop in the car and escort me from the naked wonderland that is Harbin.
Go for the nakedness, bring your own lunch, as theirs sucked.. and definitely definitely rinse yourself off before embarking on any type of nature-loving, as these insects up here mean business.
My left boob will never be the same.
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Such a range of people, young to old, and in between. Grey haired woman in bathing suit scowling in the warm pool at the young women holding hands. Beauty with hoola hoops by the heart shaped pool. Hot, hot, hot, really, really, hot pool, (aaaagghhh) then ice cold plunge in pool (aaaaggghhh), surrounded by trees and flowers. Blotchy skin at the end from the hot and cold routine. Unforgettable images (some I wish forgettable)....and I keep going back for more.
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People go here for different reasons:
-they are New Age and need to stock up on flowy batik scarves and ugly jewelry
-cheap (relatively)
-to stay in a place with the aesthetics and decorating of 1980's Victoriana
-amazing hot springs
-to be naked and outside
-to see naked people (lots of older creepy guys seem to come here for this)
-hot/cold plunge (the only reason to go here)
-to talk about their "process" and "soul caves" including any poems they are currently working on or how to "honor themselves as a goddess"
-eavesdropping (that would be me! the best eavesdropping on the planet, people say the funniest shit here)
-to not be allowed to eat meat or drink alcohol in the kitchen
-to watch movies
-to enjoy the beautiful nature and think about taking a hike but then never doing it because they are too lazy after doing the hot/cold plunge all afternoon
-to drink really bad coffee drinks
-to get the hell out of there as soon as you are all hot/cold pooled out (that would be me again)
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I had heard about this place for years, and was really looking forward to going. Little did I know. I had heard that it was open minded and lovely. It was the twelve tribes of the trust fund new age ecstasy junkies, oh and their very young children, and just to round it out lets add a few creepy people who want to stare and talk.
It had way too much of the -we're all open minded individuals-, when in actuality they were way more little clones of each other. I was looking forward to a weekend of relaxation and freedom to just be myself, but lo and behold being yourself at Harbin simply means acting within very strict parameters: be naked like us, talk like us, discuss only these subjects, eat only these things, hate these things.
There is no silence in the silent pools, people are definitely having "sexual" contact, whatever you define that to be.
I will not return, but I did give them two stars because there were two aspects of the place I really enjoyed. One, the food is really good, expensive as hell, but delicious. The whole cafeteria line thing was discouraging, but the food was very good. Two, I had the ultimate spa package, and it was amazing.
So yes if you belong to, or have aspirations of joining, the twelve tribes of the trust fund new age ecstasy junkies and you have kids, are vegetarian, and think the height of intellectual engagement is discussing what you are doing to save the planet, oh and you don't mind being propositioned by a myriad of naked strangers, including unattractive old men, and beautiful young women, by all means please do visit I'm sure you'll have a lovely time. But the whole "no pick up rule" is only a rumor.
The social rituals were very uncomfortable,as were the behavioral expectations. I was quite taken aback as I had heard this was an open minded place, where people went to relax and find peace. Instead it was this complex hive with a very Borg-like atmosphere.
As for the pools I was a bit aggravated to find that for me personally the hot was ridiculously hot, and the warm pools were tepid, so it was difficult to be comfortable and relax.
So the advice to "go with an open mind, or don't go at all" only applies if you're open minded in exactly the "right" way.
Best of luck in all your endeavors.
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Harbin is great for many reasons. It's definitely a resort, but it manages to feel smaller than it is. There are about 150 people working there, and about 300 guests on weekdays, going up to 450 on weekends. They have a lot of spa services and workshops, as well as a conference center for private events.
Since the watsu school moved out of the domes, they are now available for rent - I stayed there for 3 nights, and felt more private, quiet and relaxing than staying in a room or tent camping down the hill. I had some very good massages and even splurged on some spa treatments.
There are so many wild animals who seek refuge in Harbin Springs -- there are turkeys (and baby turkeys), quail with their young ranging from just hatched to teenagers, lots and lots of deer (all day and all night), and plenty of other birds. It's really a special place and it would be great to see it go just a bit more green.
Recycling and composting isn't available in the kitchen in the dome where I stayed and the housekeeper just pulls the trashbags if there's any bit of trash in a can (we don't need a wastepaper basket liner to go to the landfill because it has two Bumble Bar wrappers in it - right?).
I also did not see a lot of solar or wind power being used. I was shocked to see a gas powered lawn mower being used on the postage stamp size lawn in front of Walnut and Azalea - not only is the noise unnecessary, but the two-stroke gas engines are more polluting than cars and a small push/reel mower would do the job very nicely.
I was also pretty surprised that the kitchen is "mostly organic" -- and though they have a large garden, they don't really grow food for use in the kitchen which features specials like "Wild Salmon" for $23.95. There aren't a ton of vegetarian options (it's really not hard to make vegan pancakes, people! seriously - it's even cheaper and easier!).
People who feel uncomfortable with their bodies and nudity are naturally going to think that everyone is looking or leering at them. People just look at people. It's natural. If you're naked, they see more of your body. If you're wearing clothes, well, I'd say that tells more about your personality and other things depending on what you're wearing.
Nudity is the great equalizer.
There are so many bodies at Harbin and they are all beautiful. Once you accept that your body is just as beautiful as everyone else's, you'll stop feeling like they're just looking at you (because, really - you're not more special than another naked body, even if that one is older or obese).
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Ahh... Harbin... At once, it's enigmatic, yet as translucent as the water in Lake Tahoe. The Neo-hippies behind the complex are guarded. No one that I talked to or know who have been have no idea that it's run some organization called the Heart Conciousness Church. As someone who doesn't like to contribute to the Salvation Army, or any other organization with religious ties, I was skeptical. However, it seems that their version of lunacy is relatively harmless - more of a loose collection of New Age-y, holistic healing ethics rather then a true religion. At the same time, all the employees will welcome you with open arms, and (as I'm sure you're aware), everyone is literally naked around the hot springs. Also, the previous reviewer is right - If you wear something in the hot pools, you'll stick out. Way out. Go naked, or go home.
Prior to this year, I've been to Harbin once before on a wickedly crowded weekend where it was difficult to find a spot to put my stuff down on any of the decks near the pools. I still had a great time in my own little blissed out realm, and oblivious to whatever was going on in the outside world. I would have given it 5 stars before the start of this year. I came to back reality and my home highly recommending the place to friends. After conversing with them, and finding out about this website, I found out that there's sort of a swinger, leering and ogling type vibe that can sometimes be pervasive.
Earlier this year, I returned to this enigma with a handful of friends. This time, I was more aware of the potential creepy-ness factor. It's there. It really is.
I was still blissed out in my own world enough not to really care. However, if I was a single female, I'd be pretty creeped out by the sheer volume of dudes with eyes agape in the silent hot pool. I don't think I'd ever feel as though I was any danger at all, but the majority of guys there were just waiting to catch glimpses of female skin. One of my friends even called it the "Shark Pool," 'cause they were ready to pounce if any female showed any interest in them. It's sort of a joke - I've never known anyone to really be relaxed in a 'silence only' hot spring with their eyes wide open, watching anything with two X chromosomes walk by. Creepy.
Pick-up Joint Central. Make that Pick-Up Joint Bizarre.
I noticed it this time. However, there's a couple of ways to avoid it - go on a weekday, or go to the Heart Pool.
I also got to explore the complex more. I got a therapeutic massage from Martine (I think) that was PHENOMENAL, and like nothing I've ever experienced. The communal rooms are great places to hang out and read, do inner reflecting or whatever silly New Age thing that you want to do. The kitchen area would be fun to hang out with the other hippies and converse or whatever. Next time, I'll bring some vegetarian stuff to cook in there. The on-site restaurant was very pricey, but produced some top-notch food. Next time, I'll be checking out the expansive hiking trail system on their massive property. Also, the dry sauna was great (although one of my friends had a creepy guy who started doing somewhat socially inappropriate things in there, like excessively loud "AAH"-s as he stretched, and loud chanting or something like that).
I'll be back again, but here's my synopsis of the place:
If you're female, you will get almost constantly ogled and leered at in the Silent Pool and the some of the time in the other areas around the pools and decks - you may want to go mid-week. However, it's entirely physically safe, just creepy at times. The complex is massive, and the areas outside of the hotspring pools are underutilized. A massage there is the closest thing to Nirvana on Earth. If you stay in your own world and ignore the people around you, you can have an incredible time there.
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it can be serene and beautiful, but not on the long weekend in summer time... Otherwise, you'll be stepping over naked bodies everywhere and quietly fighting for you place in the soaking pool.
So go off season or during mid-week and you'll get a taste of what Harbin really is like. It's a place to chill, get awesome massages, and get away from everything. The water is amazing, you can drink it too from the little fountains, so bring a water bottle.
For food try the little cafe by the swimming pool, much better then the cafeteria and stay away from the movie theater -- depressing communist propaganda galore :)
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I like Harbin. One reason why is I never know what I am going to get. I've been going there off and on for about 13 years. It takes about 1/2 a day to get used to the nudity as I keep realizing that clothing is designed to both heighten and cover. At some point I get to a place where I can see the inherent beauty in everyones body. I like that. I have good experiences there. I love the pools. I love going back and forth between each one. I love sitting in the pools and watching men close their eyes and actually smile. I love to see couples touching and holding each other. I like being reminded of the importance of touch. I love seeing the mixture of ages in the pools. I love seeing the naked older guy who reminds me of Studs Terkel clean the sides of the pools the mornings that I am there.
Once I am in the pools, I am content...and if any weirdness comes my way, I feel I can handle it.
My ritual is when I go into the pools, I like to make eye contact with everyone there, whether they are looking directly at me or not. If there is some sort of weirdness going on or that I feel, I find someone in the pool who I "like." They usually look like they are together and wholesome. There isn't any interaction that happens. I just know that they are there. The weirdness then passes.
I keep my distance from a lot of the residents. At times I find them annoying. This doesn't shade my experience. If I want a massage, I look at the pictures of who is available and choose the ones who I like and who look wholesome. This works for me.
Spa treatments with Cora are wonderful. She's bubbly, bright and has a good spirit. I did a waterdance (underwater watsu) with Padma the last time I was there. It felt solid. I felt like I was in the hands of a healer and could be a little boy again.
I think the prices are reasonable at the restaurant. I have been pleased with the quality of the food, the presentation and the portions. I actually like the cafeteria style. Yes, some of the help is rude. I asked them to prepare eggs for me in a certain way and the server refused. Oh well! I'm not going to let that ruin my day.
Some suggestions........
Come prepared.....they milk you at the store. They also have some cool things there you won't find elsewhere. Don't expect much from the staff and you won't be disappointed. If you rent a room at the domes make sure you have a car to get there if you don't like hiking. There's no cel service or wireless. There is computer access that you have to pay for.
Some things to have fun with.......
Spa treatment with Cory
Watsu/Waterdance with Padma
Full Moon ceremony in the warm pool
Evening movies
Having breakfast and reading the Chronicle at the restaurant
Sitting in the warm pool during an evening rain
Going back and forth between hot pool and cold plunge.
Sitting on the steps in the warm pool and daydreaming
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Harbin is unabashedly my favorite place in California. Above all, I love how the water makes me feel whole again. Even from one day of drinking, bathing in & cooking with this totally pure living water there are noticeable differences in my body. People there for 3 days or more start to GLOW. Literally, you can tell who just arrived from the city.
It seems to me that everyone has their own thing going on here...at points to the detriment to others.The game is to chill out, than involve yourself where you want. ie take advantage of the waters, lush greenery, the super indulgent movie theatre, free yoga classes multiple times a day, hiking, the labyrinth, napping, great community kitchen etc.
I generally try to avoid interaction with others, if at all possible, this includes but is not limited to eye contact. The following serves as an example of what will happen if you break that rule; a random man approaches, he bows than during what can only be categorized as "aggressive eye-contact" he says "Good morning, My Lord!". Unfortunately, this actually happened to my boyfriend the last time we went...If you are a woman be warned that (smarmy)naked men WILL offer you free Watsu massage. I have had a good experience with this from a nice gentlemen, but one of my friends had a badicky experience with this. Now I always decline.
Wear what you like. There are tons of people of all ages & sizes in suits, mumu's, or various amalgamations of nudity...It is rather quiet, especially at night, but the heart pool is great for a more jovial atmosphere & during the summer lots of people chat it up. There are silent places, but mostly for good reason. For example there is no talking in the 115 degree water, you need to pay attention for safetys sake...
For all its faults Harbin actually is the cheapest & cleanest (Wilbur gave me a violent bloody nose just from the smell) developed hotsprings I have ever been to. The land is gorgeous. The community kitchen is f***in awesome to cook in. The water will heal and rejuvenate you. The plac is well loved & reflects that through the flora, fauna & architecture.
One last thing. At night floating in the water you can see the entire night sky. I am talkin about the real deal heavens above us. How could anyone resist this experience?
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So many new age hippies. You can literally smell patchouli oil wafting in the air.
Me and the hunny have never seen so much seventies bush in our lives! So . . .if you're sporting a Kojak you may feel a little out of place. Brazilians are definitely the way to go.
Be prepared to either get nikkid or deal with lots of nudity. Its great for body acceptance though-'cause you're going to see long, lean, lithe ones, some big, generous ones and lots more in between. But really everyone is beautiful. Eye contact may be the key-look up, smile and please try not to eye fuck me.
Harbin is beautiful, with many trails to explore. The pools are warm and so relaxing. The new sauna and steam room is a welcome addition. Fresh flowers decorate the pool, dressing room, restaurant and kitchen. Awesome lavender soap for the showers.
The shared communal kitchen seems a little dodgy. So if you're even a little bit anal retentive or germaphobic you've been warned. And even though you're supposed clean up after yourself many people don't which is a huge buzz kill.
The restaurant is good, considering they have a rather captive audience. It's also relatively expensive due to, again, a rather captive audience. But really, why don't they grow their own produce? They've got so much land-seems rather counter intuitive.
They offer yoga, films, chanting and dances. We've never made it to any of them-cause we're soaking in the awesome warm water.
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With an extremely stressful week approaching, I knew that afterwards I'd be in dire need of serious relaxation. So I booked a night at Harbin, never having been there. I've always been a water type of person, and knew the water would give me the peace I was looking for. Sure enough I found it, but the experience wasn't quite what I expected.
The "clothing optional" in the pools area isn't really an option, let's face it. Anyone with clothes on looks like a voyeur or something. The rest of the place requires clothing, thankfully.
My experience included a Watsu session when I first arrived -- it really got me in the head-space for Harbin. It was relaxing and helped me breathe and evened out my scrunched up spine.
The food at the restaurant was okay, nothing to write home about.
But I have to say, Harbin is an experience you have to be open to. In my "normal" life, I would never suffer through listening to one of the "residents" get all new-agey. But here, it was okay. I would never let some dude ogle me elsewhere, but here, well, I honestly didn't notice.
If you make a decision to look inward for a couple of days, relax, enjoy the beauty of the place, the calm of the water, you'll adore Harbin. If you can't quite "go there" in your mind, you won't like it.
As for me, I'll be back soon.
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"We don't care,"
That was Harbin's response to "Have you read Harbin's reviews on Yelp?"
The gracelessness of fielding that question speaks to how poorly their front line staff handle problems. I've never seen a hotel desk clerk escalate a situation as quickly as the one I encountered as Harbin. And if Harbin doesn't care about feedback and won't put people with better customer service skills on the front lines, then they deserve their one star review. Besides, they "don't care".
I like the Harbin facility. I find it very relaxing. But I wish the administrative side of things felt more professional, particularly with as high as their prices are.
Other reviewers have done ample justice to what Harbin is (and isn't). I note that my half-bath was the size of a quarter-bath; an individual of only moderate stature could easily sit on the toilet and lap water from the sink without straining, which meant there was hardly room to stand up in the space. In the future, I won't splurge on the private bath.
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I'm from LA homie. Prior to '96 I was the epitome of a vapid K-town chick; Gucci glistening on the outside with DJ Doc ringing loud inbetween the ears.
Fast forward to 11/07.. jigga what?! I see naked people with their wieners hanging out. Who am I? I'm Jean VALJEANNN! Sorry... I had to play Broadway musicals in my head to deal with all the hanging wieners.
My masseuse had highly recommended Harbin so I quickly made online reservations for a romantic getaway. $330 for 2 nights? One of the main reasons I was probably expecting something a little mf'ng different.
Arrived Sat night and we headed straight for the pools. Yeah, I read something about "clothing optional" but I wasn't quite ready for this. I grew up going to Korean spas where all are naked. The difference is that they were all women. Harbin has wayyyy more men than women. Way more men mean wayyyy more wieners. And the pools are very small too. It was tough baby. I turned to my own wiener man, "I can't do this sober."
We went into Middletown and hit up the one and only saloon. The people in Middletown are freaking AWESOME. So friendly, so funny, we had a great time.
Okay, 2nd attempt was around 4am and it went much better. The hot spring pools were only 10% full and we had a beautiful buzz to ease any concerns.
We started with the body temperature hot spring. I decided to stop looking at everyone's wieners and just focus on the man behind the wiener I had come with. We held each other in the body temperature natural mineral water and let our eyes close and bodies relax. I felt like I had re-entered my mom's womb with the man that I love but then got freaked out b/c that was weird and opened my eyes. I saw tinges of soft light with bright stars twinkling above, then looked forward and saw a man I loved and thought, "I done good."
We then went in the 120 deg/F pool. It's so fucking hot. The pain shoots up each area of skin contact. The trick is to just get the fuck in there and breathe out of your mouth in hoots. The demand of the heat will rape its way to your bones and demand that you relax. My muscles shuddered to submission.
I'm always up for a little pain (the man politely declined and said he'd wait for me in the body temp springs) and so went from the 120 deg/F springs to the ice cold spring. I walked into the pool and immediately dunked myself down to my head. The pain screamed on my skin then shuddered again. I started shaking then got the fuck out. I walked out and felt fucking invincible. If someone had thrown kryptonite at me just then, I'd have caught it with one hand and eaten it like an apple. I felt like a GOD.
The pools were small but very effective. If I had just been rating the pools I would've given those 4 stars. But alas, I paid $330 to stay in a not-so-good room.
I get the hippie vibe, but what is unacceptable is the lazy thing. The room was full of little flies. Fine. But the walls were covered with smashed little flies. WTF? Too hard to wipe that off before signing off that the room's been cleaned?
Who am I? No longer K-town cray-cray. Definitely not a French penitent bread thief. Aww, I don't care as long as I don't get ripped off again. Word.
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