My houseguest Mrs. M and I went to have our toes done at the School where the Aveda estheticians learn their craft.
I mentioned that I would report and report is what I am about to do.
I usually go to a large hotel with a spa in town where I am pampered and treated like a Royal!
I must confess I like this treatment!
The plush terry robes, the mineral pool, sauna and steam rooms, the zen-like atmosphere, fizzy water, herbal teas and bento boxed spa lunches, candle lit rooms with silky sheets and cuddly heated blankets and beds.
Infused with the soft sounds of the rainforest the treatment rooms that are an oasis.
A girl could get used to this and if time and money were no object...I might dabble on a bi-weekly or at least a monthly basis...
(but that is not reality for the Hostess)
Did I mention that the staff are exceptional and service many a world weary traveller, the standards are above and beyond.
I am wearing OPI I am Really Not Just a Waitress and my shy toes are sporting some bling...for the camera.
The experience was less than thrilling for me, and I do not consider myself a snob.
The mainfloor storefront was immaculate and the Aveda displays were artfully arranged, there was water, tea and a variety of current magazines in the waiting room and a large and welcoming staff on hand.
We were called by name and herded upstairs through a warren of rooms to a cubicle which had curtains dividing and defining the treatment area.
The treatment area was dusty and the linens were obviously old and had been laundered so often they were off white.
The esthetician was delightful, professional and skilled.
She was neat and tidy and cute as a button.
She did all she could to make my time there a wonderful experience.
She has a job waiting her when she graduates next month.
I couldn't help but compare this pedicure with the grand spa experience...unfair I suppose, but at 1/3 of the cost of what I usually spend I would have to say it was OK.
It was a no frills pedicure...I am wondering how it will last comparing it to my usual...which lasts 4-5 weeks.
I am not looking for OK when spa-ing....I'm looking for over the top.
I don't do it often so I am willing to pay more.
I guess it just proves that you get what you pay for!
I am in need of a facial...and hope that I can convince my "Spa Buddy BFF" to arrange a date so we can indulge.
Closing now...getting the Bungalow back in order as our guests have departed, laundry is in the washer and dryer, spaghetti is simmering, Mr. HB is watching the News, he's poured me a G and T...I plan to go to bed early tonight.
Sweet dreams and Hugs from the Hostess!