At the heart of Asiatown IT Park, where information superhighway reigns supreme, nestles a very traditional way of human touch. Its back to basics manner is very much in contrast to the pageantry of the high rise buildings in the area that manifests modernity and technology. Nevertheless, its presence could be considered a novelty--- being a spa that is surrounded with all the signs of classy and chic urban living. Yet it is measuring up to its native way of healing and caring.
We are talking ALIBYO, the first and only spa in Cebu that specializes in traditional Filipino hilot, our very own! It is setting a trend this side of the planet. Why? Simply because it’s very Filipino so it’s a source of pride and identity. If Thailand has its Thai massage that has gained a good following right in our backyard, then why don’t we promote our own and get a fair share of the popularity and profit? After all, Alibyo defines Hospitability through the palms of well trained massage attendants so that after a two hour hilot session, you step out all smiles and relaxed.
The reception area is adorned with works of art, wooden sofas and a snack-bar that caters native foods and drinks (budbod, sikwate and lot more).
Located at the second level of i2 building, after choosing your kind of service, you will be ushered to the spa area with the therapist assigned to you already waiting at the doorstep to remove your sandals or shoes and into slippers. The rooms have assigned names such as Kamanyan, Banaba and other medicinal plants. The area is well lighted and right after you go inside a wooden door, you are greeted with the sound of instrumental Filipino music along, with the sound of flowing water. The wooden aisle that leads to the rooms is ornamented with long steamed leafy plants that add a cool feel.
You can instantly smell the incense burning, firm and elegant bed and when you place your face inside its hole, you can inhale right away the subtle aroma of a potpourri.
In totality, Alibyo is posh, stylish, creative and imaginative; it truly understands the real meaning of spa and wellness.
Of course, the presentation and packaging are just tip of the iceberg because the real measure of an outstanding spa is in the kind of service it offers. And, I tell you Alibyo has what it takes to be successful because its attendants are very reliable; they certainly know what they are doing from the pouring of the very fragrant coconut oil to the gentle touching of your aching body. Painless and the pressure consistent, you can’t help but take a nap and forget the pressure of a city life and the worries that cause sleepless nights. Polite and sensitive, the attendant could very well read the emotion painted on your face as he flexes your muscles and stretches your arms and legs.
Under the hands of an Alibyo attendant, the slogan “handle with care” would be an understatement, because he does not only care, he worships your body as if it’s the most natural thing to do. You can feel it on the way he touches and squeezes at the right direction with wholehearted, refinement and confidence.
And like its sister company Body & Sole, at Alibyo it’s a rule that massage service is handled by a therapist of the same gender so you are secure, never feeling awkward. At Alibyo too, the attendants are exclusive to the establishment, meaning they can never cross to its sister spa outlets because their training is very different, specialized and detailed, signifying that you are in good hands.
Alibyo actually offers a lot of services at a very reasonable price tag, depending on what suits your mood at the moment you are there. One thing is for sure though--satisfaction, fulfillment, is what is in store for you. And you never leave without having a glass of a free drink---- signature iced tea with pandan leaves, salabat with honey or hot ginger drink with a fusion of kalamansi and honey.
By the way, I must say the bathroom is clean with a touch of zen, definitely a plus factor!
Obviously, you’ve got to try it yourself to understand the true meaning of a natural Filipino wellness.