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Just arrived a few hours before coming from a night of relaxation and fun with friends I don't get to see so much anymore. We're working for different offices now and there are too many preoccupation. We used to be barkadas at the old office we worked for. We were yuppies then carving a name and building our lives. It was a happy time when we're together. We had lunch together, went to each other's family affairs, had a fairly active social, and simply enjoyed each other company. In the years that follow, one would be leaving the office and joining the academe; I would join an international organization and the academe; one would join her fiancee in a foreign land, another would retire for personal reasons, and only one of us remains in the same office. I would be back in the same organization but work for another office. Much have change in all of us but not the friendships. We would meet other people who would also become part of our lives but whenever we're together, it's just like old times.....
Last night was a much awaited reunion...... all of our birthdays passed without us getting together. The original plan was much bigger as one was suggesting that the three of us go to Baguio. The sked, however, conflicts with my trip with the kids to HK next month and also with my friend going to Switzerland with her family. We came up with a fast compromise and went out last night. Fortunately, we were all free.
We went to Wensha Spa at the CCP Complex. Being a Friday, it was teeming with people. My friend assured us we're going to be accommodated. The most wonderful thing about this spa is the reasonably priced services...... which probably explains why the whole of Metro Manilans were there last night. It's a mixed crowd of young and old, all wanting to relax at an affordable price. Why do I say it's reasonable? The most basic package of a body massage is priced at P680 inclusive of unlimited use of jacuzzi, both hot and cold; sauna, wet and dry; an hour-long massage, buffet dinner and shabu-shabu. One can eat as much as he wants..... unlike other spa, you have to go once the service is over. here, you are allowed to linger on. On weekdays, one can stay for as much as 8 hours while on weekends and holiday, for 6 hours. Ain't that a good bargain!
Now, here is the damper..... if you are seeking relaxation with the right ambiance, this is not the place for you. It's so open, there is no exclusivity. One has to be uninhibited because you need to bare yourself in front of so many strangers. My other friend, is quite squeamish about baring herself in front of other people. She might have been forced to swallow all her inhibitions last night and was uncomfortable the whole time. The 'eat-all-you'can' buffet proved to be disastrous in the end. I asked my friend if if it indeed as it says on their signage and she said not to worry. After the massage, we had shabu-shabu which is a really nice way to cap a relaxing massage. The two of us put enough veggies, seafoods, and noodles on our plates but my other friend got another plateful of ingredients. We cooked and ate happily and left when we were full. A waiter stopped us saying we would have to pay if we don't eat all. Two of us returned as my other friend went to the washroom and prepared herself all the time we were agonizing on finishing the meal. Yes, we are cheapskates and didn't want to pay up. Finally, she emerged and we made her finish the remaining portion. When only noodles were left, we bargained with the waiter who let us off the hook.
Ambiance is another thing that is lacking in the place. Maybe the lack of exclusivity is a turn-off. The sound system and the music selection is not suited for relaxation as well. But for P680, need we ask for anything more when we have been fed, cleaned, and massaged?
After dressing up, we left headed for Greenhills. My friend wanted a night cap and was suggesting this place called TJ, owned by Sylvia Sanchez the actress. She said that the place is frequented by celebrities and the music is for us, 80s. Since we were all game, we went for it. When we arrived, the place was actually having an exclusive party. It's the birthday celebration of Lotlot De Leon. We stayed outside and looked through the glass wall like we were watching a show as these celebs took their turn singing for the celebrant. Never mind if they are not really the best singers. They had a blast. We ordered a pitcher of Weng-weng and enjoyed the sight and sound. There was Ian De Leon, Carla Estrada, Bayani Agbayani, Paolo of Eat Bulaga fame, Smokey Manaloto, Sylvia Sanchez, and a bunch of their friends. After a few rounds, we would go as my friend's hubby was waiting for her in Cubao.
We dropped her off. Then my friend brought me home. It was past 3:00am when I got home. I guess my friend is in a direr strait as her kids were about to go to school by the time she reached home.
We enjoyed each other's company which is reason enough to stay late. I hope to see them again soon.
PS: Nagpamasahe ako pero masakit ang katawan ko. Kailangan ko yata ng repeat performance para mawala ito. Pero dami gagawin at wala na isang kasama sa bahay at susubstitute ako sa mga gawain niya....... Pano ba yan?
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