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OK, remember how in the "Wizard of Oz" the gang of raggedy-assed travelers arrived at the Emerald City and got all buffed, polished, toned and trimmed? A day at the Olympus is like that. You could just pay the entry fee and lounge around in the hot tubs (three different temperatures) or refresh yourself in the cool pool with a waterfall, but for the true experience, it's best to sign up for a treatment.

The Korean-style spa is perhaps most famous for its unapologetic, come-to-Jesus body scrub and moisturizing combo. An attendant prepares your naked body with warm water and soap. She'll exfoliate every inch of you with textured mitts — hold back your gasps as you see rolls of your dead skin all over the place (key word here is "dead." You don't need it. Get over it). She'll then slather on an application of olive oil, honey and milk. If you opt for the facial, you'll wear a soothing mask of honey and pureed cucumbers for a good 20 minutes. Be prepared to spend the following few moments — or hours, you can stay as long as you like — blissing out in any of the warm "earth energy" rooms that go up to 170 degrees, or in the resting room stocked with refreshingly current magazines.

When you leave, you'll be ready to take on any old wicked witch you come across — plus, you'll be way more beautiful, inside and out.

TIP: Yes. Tip a lot. The services are so cheap it's a sin not to. And while you are free to roam the white-marbled palace, there are some rules to keep in mind. You can't enter if you're having your period. You must have a reservation and arrive an hour early before any services. Forget about wearing a swimsuit — this is serious bathing business.

By Vanessa McGrady
Special to NWsource