First things first, what exactly is a kawa? Well, a kawa is commonly known as a wok. the difference with the wok found in Tibiao as that they’re large enough to accommodate a person that you can bathe in them. You could say that’s their standard size. There are also several larger sized kawa’s which can accommodate two people or more inside!
The special thing about these pots is their unusually large sizes. Back then it was used for making molasses the old-fashioned way. Fired up in a pit and manually cooked and stirred within resulting in a sticky concoction. Now that the kawa’s aren’t used anymore, the locals use it as a tub made for warm baths.
There are a number of inns that offer kawa hot baths. The best thing about it is that you get to enjoy a spectacular view of the Tibiao river. We decided to experience this at Calawag Mountain Resort after trekking through Bugtong-Bato falls and River Tubing. It was just a short walk from the entrance to the falls.
Make sure you inform front desk that you’ll be getting their hot baths since they had to prepare it 45 minutes before your bath since they had to fill up the tub with water and heat it the traditional way and that’s with firewood. You can also get to choose the flavor you would like to be soaked in.
Kawa Salt Bath (299php for 30 mins.)
You are provided with a plate of rock salt which you can use to your liking. It can also be used for exfoliating your skin which can stimulate blood circulation. A soak in the salt bath can detoxify and heal dry and irritated skin. Bathing in saltwater is also known to reduce inflammation and relieve muscle and joint pains.
Kawa Milk Bath (399php for 30mins)
You are given a litter of fresh milk to which you can do anything with it. Personally, the need to have a huge gulp of it before bathing was what I had to do! It left my skin feeling all soft and supple since the lactic acid in the milk helped soften the skin. A glass of cold milk is provided as well.
Kawa Coffee Bath (399php for 30 mins.)
You’re given a plate full of coffee grounds while your bath warms to your liking. The antioxidants found in the coffee can help prevent your skin from getting eczema. It also helps break down the cellulite and can act as a sunblock as well
Kawa Beer Bath (399php for 30 mins.)
2 liters of beer is added to your bath for this one. Beer baths are great for the skin and hair. It also revitalizes the nervous system and helps fight acne. They also give you beer to drink!
Kawa Wine Bath (599php for 30 mins.)
2 liters of beer is added to your bath for this one. Beer baths are great for the skin and hair. It also revitalizes the nervous system and helps fight acne. They also give you beer to drink!
I recommend the hot milk bath. It was quite good for the skin which left me feeling moisturized. It was quite soothing to the point that you could take a nap. Imagine being soaked in a milky concoction of flowers and herbal leaves. You can also experience the fish spa here.
Kawa Tips:
- Bring insect repellent.
- Wear proper swimming attire
