Spa A Great Summer Destination

It's the season to get away from our busy schedule and just take a break. School is over and it's time to reward ourselves for those long hours of studying, finishing the final requirements and waking up early. This summer I plan travel and go places. One would think that travel will require a lot of planning and, of course, spending. For me, not really. Before summer came about, I already have started my traveling without much fuss and expenses.

I had a stressful week and what better way to reward myself than have a full day of total relaxation. I got my all around bag with my wallet, grooming kit, mobile phones and keys. I took a cab and told the driver where to go. My travel was just starting. When I reached my destination, I couldn't help having that giddy feeling knowing I was going to really enjoy the day. I was going to have a spa day.

When I entered the spa, I could smell right away that typical lemony scent that never fails to relax me. The music playing softly like water cascading held much promise of a good nap. The receptionist greeted me and I was attended to promptly.

"Body scrub and body massage, please. I'd like to use the sauna first and take a shower," I gave out my preference to the attendant.

I wanted to really start my treatment. I proceeded to my room and changed into a robe to have fifteen minutes in the sauna. It was totally hot in there but then I felt so relaxed and fresh. After the heat in the sauna, I proceeded to take a cold shower. After the shower it was time to start the real treatment.

I entered my room and lay down on my back. My therapist then started with my body scrub then body massage.

The milky liquid was poured on my back and then a salty substance was later rubbed all over. I could feel the dead skin getting what they deserved - much scrubbing. After half an hour of scrubbing, I rinsed and then went back to lie on my back for that much awaited massage. I asked the therapist what kind of massage they offer and she told me they have a signature massage, which is a combination of Swedish, Shiatsu and some Thai stretching.

The therapist poured some oil on my back and started the massage. First, there was some stretching. I could really hear my bones give a sort of cracking sound. Obviously, I have not done enough stretching in the morning. Shiatsu on the other hand is a Japanese form of massage, applying pressure commonly using the thumb to get rid of the "cold" trapped in the body. Swedish massage is more on the smooth gliding of the hands to relax the body. Swedish is my personal preference so I asked my therapist to make use more of the Swedish strokes. My massage lasted for a little over an hour. Halfway through, I felt so relaxed that I fell asleep.

I certainly got my pre- summer vacation. It was a total spa travel experience. I got to experience a little of Japan, Thailand and Sweden. I didn't even need a passport for it.