Bare it all at Pastels Salon

Today, I am happy. Although I cannot divulge that information as yet until I have completed that task. Anyway, I want to share with you a place where I usually visit during my pamper and me-time first.

I think I can't live anymore without waxing. I am, unfortunately, hairy, so I need to remove the unwanted hairs on all the unwanted areas like my upper lip, underarm, half legs and the you-know-where. I always try to look for a nice place to have all these services done and finding the right salon is hard to do in Dubai. There are so many of them that offer services but you can only trust a few. Then I chance upon Pastel Salon. They have a wide range of services for the hair, nail, face and body treatment and ever since my first session, I always come here for my waxing.  I have revealed to them my most kept secret...(eherm)..."thing" and I was not disappointment. They have been taking care of me for the longest time.

Without further ado, let me tour you to one of my haven,

This is where I always had my session.  See how clean the place is? It is important that you check the place that you wish to have your waxing. Another reason why I chose this salon, is because they put thin gloves during your session. They always observe  good hygiene for their clients.

I have been choosing their lycon wax over the hot wax where they use strip. Less pain for me. Have you been in Lay Bair in the Philippines? They use cold wax, its similar to that but Lycon is hot. Although, its more expensive that the normal wax, I still prefer this to be used for Brazilian waxing.

This is where their facial is being done. I haven't tried one of these as yet - maybe in the near future.

They maintained cleanliness of their wash/bath rooms, of course.

This is for manicure and pedicure area. I like the small lavatory for the feet.
Cute!

This is for the hair services. I was actually want to kick my royal behind several weeks ago because, I had my hair done in another salon and now I am wearing a not-so-nice hairdo. I am just awaiting for it to grow long again and swear to never experiment with my locks or use a different place again.

Pastel Salon have several branches in UAE. I hope you enjoyed the mini tour.

All the best

A Basic Pampering Need

Before I availed my cobone deal for just Dhs 199 (value of Dhs 700), I want to share with you my first ever use of group buying via online, which was a little risky for credit card users but so far, so good for me. I used it for a not so expensive deal, just so not to cry over spilled milk if ever I experience a not-so-good incident for a first time user like me.

Anyway, I bought a 75 minute Dermalogical Facial Treatment for Dhs 119 instead of Dhs 275 at Catwalk Ladies Salon from groupon.

The facial was really a blast! It was relaxing and definitely a good deal.  The place was clean and well lit. The receiving area was inviting and the person I speak with on the phone to arrange for my appointment was very accommodating something missing from the the call I gave to Metropolitan Hotel

Catwalk Ladies Salon is well equipped as well

This is where the facial was done. The person was very nice and well experienced, she even gave me tips on how to care for my skin and hair.

Did you know that we should pay particular care on the linings of our hair on the forehead? Otherwise, pimples will start to envade your precious forehead, just like mine. So she recommended that I cleanse my hair with shampoo, cleaning the said part and not put on too much conditioner on it as it is also the caused of pimple breakouts.

I highly recommend their Dermatological Facial which is a basic pampering need, I am a satisfied customer of this service. Its suitable for all skin type that tends to cleanse, exfoliate, tighten, tone and refresh your skin.

Catwalk is located at Shop 18, Hasher Hamad Bldg., Oud Metha, near Lamcy Plaza. You may book your appointment at +9714 3577422.

All the best,

Moroccan Bath. Let's!

I'm curious for the longest time how Moroccan bath works, I was offered a few times to try the service but not until I got a good deal from cobone that I was able to experience it. The package that I had comes with Moroccan bath, full body massage, full body scrub, dead sea facial and hot oil treatment. It was a steal, but not until I was in to experience the offer. 

Moroccan Bath "It's an intense cleansing and exfoliating massage, which takes one-and- -half-hours to complete, The deep cleansing begins using traditional Moroccan Black cleansing soap, which quickly penetrates the skin breaking up any dead skin cells that accumulate on our bodies over time. A scalp mask is also applied and then the room fills up with steam and relaxed for about twenty minutes to let my skin soften for the exfoliating."

It was an amazing experience to try it for the first time, I could really feel the effect on my skin. I thought that "once a week exfoliating would be enough to remove the dirt and dead skin but when I saw the deep seated dirt visible on my skin, I was like "ewww!" Were these really come out from my skin? But it wasn't comfortable at all. I was conscious the whole time while the procedure was being done.

The Filipina asked me which I preferred first, the Body Massage or the Moroccan bath, I chose the latter. First, because, I have not taken my bath yet I know, right?, and second I do not want to have the bath after the massage which based from previous masseuse, it is not advisable taking a bath after a massage as it will not be good for your body and as per the sayings of our senior citizens aka "matatanda," the "lamig" will go inside our body. I was then led to my own room where I kept my belongings and was requested to remove all my clothes, wear a disposable shorts and was led to the bathroom, which was dark and hot. I was asked to lay down on the bed like area, naked. The lady then started to shower me, then rub me the nice smelling soap, "the black cleansing soap" probably. Then she started the full body scrub. She also did the hot oil treatment.

After the procedure, I feel refresh and my skin was soft and smooth. I was led back to my room for the massage and the dead-sea facial treatment. I know I made the right choice to have the Moroccan bath first because the lady uses lotion instead of massage oil. I felt relax while the massage was on going. The facial was a disappointment for me, as it was only a facial mask and not exactly what I was expecting, it was even a little itchy on my face. I was irritated because the lady didn't remove well the mask she put on my face and didn't even bother to tell me that I had white marks on the face not until one of her colleagues told me so when I was already outside the room! Imagine the embarrassment.

All the services that I got was from Metropolitan Hotel Dubai, SZR.

The services that they offer were

Moroccan Bath Dhs 150 (45 min)

Hot stone treatment Dhs 200 (1 hour)

Thai massage Dhs 200 (1 hour)

Foot spa Dhs 100 (45 min)

Foot massage Dhs 100 (45 min)

Head & shoulder Dhs 100 (45 min)

Facial mud mask Dhs 150

Full body mud mask Dhs 250

Manicure Dhs 60

Pedicure Dhs 60

You may call them at +9714 343 00 00 ext. 6706 // +9714 407 67 06 // +97150 155 65 49. They are open daily from 8:00AM until 12MN.

I don't highly recommend them as they fall short on my expectation for a hotel but nevertheless, after all the services were done, I came out of my room feeling renewed and stress free. It's really nice to pamper yourself once in a while.

All the best,

Ace Water Spa

Hydrotherapy involves the use of water for pain relief and treating illnesses. It is highly effective form of natural therapy. It has a lot of health benefit and if you are suffering from any form of sickness, hydrotherapy can target these problems effectively.

Far-ouT and yours truly decided to try a different kind of massage at Ace Water Spa. They offer hydrotheraphy with waterfalls, lazy river and 25 massage systems to target the different part of your body. They allow you to stay at the pool area for 4 hours, but we weren't able to stay that long since Bella was not feeling well and staying in the water for such a long time might aggravate her cough and colds.

We arrived at Quezon City around 11:00 AM so we decided to dine in first at Ace Coffee Lounge. As usual, I ordered my Pinoy favorite breakfast, tapsilog, I was surprised that Ace is serving great tasting menu as well.

After finishing our food, we proceeded to change into our swimming attire. They have separate changing rooms for the boys and girls which also goes directly to the pool area. Bella and I went to our assigned station and were given keys for the locker to keep our stuff. We change into our bathing suits and took a shower. Ace  practice good hygiene as they are strict with their policies so a fitted swimwear is a must.

 Far-ouT was already waiting for us when we were done with the cleaning procedure. Since it was just the 3 of us, Hubby and I took turns so one of us can take care of Bella while the other were trying the different massages Ace Water Spa has to offer.

Their management are only after the safety of their customers so they have strict compliance that cameras / videos and other things excepts towels are not allowed to go inside and if it is about it, then I am up for it as well. This is as far as my camera can go.

I believe it was a right decision for us to eat lunch first before heading for our massages, not only that our stomach was full, since food and drink are prohibited at the spa area, it was also the best time to enjoy the place with only a few number of people to share the systems with.

After relaxing at their massages area , Far-ouT and I headed to the hot herbal pools area, again took turns while the other was watching after Bella. I went first and I must say this is so far, my favorite among all their facilities. I tried the 3 herbal pools, Mint, Jasmine and Lavander Pool. Just a word of advice, be sure to dip in their cold pool each time you use their hot pools. This is what they call Contrast Therapy Plunge.

"It is a special hydrotherapy experience wherein an alternate plunging in the hot herbal pool and cold pool is involved. Immersion on hot herbal pool will open up pores to allow the release of body toxins while stimulating blood flow to the core of the body while tightening the pores. Alternate immersion is recommended to keep your body temperature and heart rate at a healthy level."

After Far-ouT's turn, we decided to call it a day so we headed back to the locker rooms to take a shower and fix our things then grab a quick bite again at their restaurant.

It was such a wonderful experience to try hydrotherapy, not only did it made us feel relaxed, it was also a family bonding time. We decided to come back when Far-ouT return from abroad. So that would be next year. Hahaha! Till then, Ace Wate Spa.

Ace Water Spa is located at 399 Del Monte Avenue (near cor. Banaue St.)SFDM, Quezon City. 

Getting a wax done down there?

I've been to California Nails and Day spa for the second time around. The first time was when I had my brazilian waxing. It is one of my body rituals during my Dubai days, I always went to a salon near our flat. The one taking care of me is also a Filipina so after the first time, I was no longer shy, and that became a monthly schedule for me. However, during my pregnancy, I had to hold off waxing down there until after baby bella is born. It will not cause me to go into labor, however, I do not want to be uncomfortable as my belly was a hinder already so I had to stop. It took a while before I resume again. That was when my Bella hit her one year of age. I was actually hesitant to start it all over again. I never tried it in the Philippines before and it took months for me to finally decided to do it again.

So why brazilian you ask? This type of waxing refers to a removal of almost everything or an extreme form of it, is the complete removal of hair. Its much better than shaving, it never itched on me and doesn't cause me razor burn. It also lasts a long time and eventually hair grows softer and finer.

I search for several spa, aside from this waxing, I also have my hair remove on my half leg and underarm, the ones that I have tried are facial care, lay-bare, posh nails and and yes, even reyes salon. however, I am still in doubt should I get their service for brazilian. It is important that you get it done with a professional one. A salon that practice good hygiene.  That's when I chance upon CNDS, an affiliate of CANS (California Advanced Nail & Skincare), they are the only one in the Philippines that follows California and Cosmetology  Standards so that's a plus already and they are much cheaper than Strip, another salon that I consider.

I was alone when I had it done. I called to have an appointment. The waxer was a professional one, she was not the talkative type of person. I do not want small talk during this time and she was fast getting it done so that lessens the pain. It is recommended to do waxing, 4 weeks intervals.

For my second time, I went again for an underarm and half leg waxing. I have to delay the B some other time.

The waxer will lead you to the small cubicle inside for privacy. She asked me to changed my clothes to their robe for easier access the the areas that needs to be done. If you will look closer to the photos, the wax has 2 colors, green and a dark one. The latter is the one they use for your sensitive areas while the former are for the less sensitive ones. Also, the person doing the wax has mask and apron that gave you peace of mind that they are really observing cleanliness in their area.

If you haven't tried it yet and is thinking of having one, you may have to ready yourself and for further queries, I got this reference for your guidance.

The Spa on our 2nd anniversary post celebration

I woke up at exactly 12 midnight with the sound of my mobile phone message tone. It was my Far-ouT greeting me with a Happy Monthsary. After five years of being in a relationship, Two years and Two months of being married...he never forgets our monthly date. our eighteen.

May 18, 2010 was our Second Anniversary. We were not lucky enough to celebrate it again together for the second time around.

So my Far-ouT send this again to put a smile to my face. Well, he did. Just like what her did from our 1st Anniversary.

It was never too late to celebrate something special, so a month after our 2nd anniversary, when Far-ouT was already here for a vacation, he again made sure that he'd make me happy so he treated me to The Spa.

From their list of packages, we got the Refreshing Start (DELUXE Php 1950) that includes a choice of Body Massage, Choice of Foot Therapy and Aroma Facial Massage.

Far-ouT and I got the Swedish for the Body Massage, Peppermint Foot Rub for me and Thai foot for him while both of us also got the Aroma Facial Massage.

We were walk-in clients at 4PM and unfortunately, they don't accommodate the ones with no appointment, so we were ask to come back at 6PM. We decided to have a bite at Oliver's Sandwich first.

Upon our return, we were like late for a few minutes from their clock, so we immediately led to our respective places. Men and Women have their own space unless you got the couple's room.

The attendant ask me should I still wish to have a shower prior to my chosen services, of course, I want that. She gave me five minutes, otherwise, the one assigned to me will be given to another customer and that I have to wait again for someone to be available since I was late. My bad. she even added that my husband started immediately with his. Okay, so now you want me to feel guilty that I wanted to have a quick shower? Anyway, she told me this in a nice way. Nicer that you will feel bad if you reacted negatively so I just let it pass.

I grab my towel and took a quick bath, I was tempted to take few more pictures but I embarrassment took over me so I decided against it.

The ambiance at The Spa was really something to look forward to. They observe cleanliness and an atmosphere of relaxation. Other than that, nothing more, really. They are just like the other spas available in the market. The quality of massage was the same, nothing fancy. I even got better massage from Big Apple spa that was not expensive. The facial at Belo was much better and foot massage was so, so. I got an even better one at Foot for the Gods. It was like someone was just rubbing my legs with peppermint.

Also, for each attendant that will attend to you, all of them will give you a small envelope for tip. You are not oblige to give but of course, most of us will probably will. But this is not a good practice for such a high end spa, don't you think?

I was already done with all the service and I was already fixing myself to meet Far-ouT at the lobby. Then a freak accident happened. I dropped my key just behind the toilet bowl. Just what I needed. Tried to get it myself but to no avail. So I asked the help of the attendant. She too tried. Well, she got a key, but not the one for my locker. Another one which was also there for quite sometime now since it was already rusted. Great! So it was not the first one and they did not do something about it the first time.

The attendant told me that I have to wait, she needs to ask the permission of the management to break the lock, they do not have spare keys for the lockers for security purposes. We have waited for more than 30 minutes for the approval then another less than a minute to get my things inside the locker when they broke it.

I have been dreaming of experiencing The Spa for the longest time since it was expensive for me and Far-ouT made that happened. Unfortunately, I was kindda disappointed since I was expecting more from them.

It was an experience nevertheless.

Foot for the Gods

Intriguing name right? And so I was intrigued. Foot for the Gods is located at the 5/F of Megamall, For Php 480.00 treat yourself to a drowsing foot with back massage. I wasn't able to get a good shot of the place since it was very dark inside with nothing but recliners and some snoring customers. The treatment was nothing impressive, the masseuse will lead you to their huge lavatory and cleanse your feet. Then let you sit in their recliners. I avail of the foot with back massage for Php 480.00, I was disappointed with the latter service though. It was uncomfortable as I was massage on the same recliner with nothing to rest on. It only lasted for about 15 minutes, thank God.

Then the foot massage started...well...I can't tell you much about it since, the next thing I know, I was awake. So it was the most relaxing foot spa I have ever tried. I just don't recommend the back massage.

Body Delight Spa

It is always refreshing to end the week with a body massage. To find a spa with the cheapest rate without compromising the service is even better. My mom and I went to St. Luke’s for a check-up using my medicard, but that’s another story. It was not a pleasant experience after all so I’d rather not tell it.

Anyway, right after our lunch, I decided to have a massage at the nearest spa, just across the hospital. Body Delight. The price was really tempting for a full body massage of only Php 199.00. I was of course hesitant, with that price, you’ll never know what you gonna get.

Upon entering, the place itself was relaxing, not minding the receptionist who was not that customer oriented. I again confirmed the price. Php 199.00 for a full body massage? Yes, she said, for the regular massage. And so I thought. They use regular oil for the massage, but if you want aroma massage, they’ll use eucalyptus hot oil for additional Php50.00. Does it already include sauna or steam bath? No. Alright, that is additional Php 50.00 again. For a total of Php 300.00? Not bad.

The masseuse led me to their upstairs room to change my clothes to a towel and robe for a shower. The room was a regular bathroom, nothing fancy. She again led me back downstairs for the sauna. It was small, good thing I was the only customer at that time so it was all mine. It was a good 15-minute sauna.

The place was tent like place with bamboo curtains. Space was spacious with high ceiling, private enough for a massage. They were nice to offer my mom a bed even without any service.

I was treated to a one-hour of Shiatsu and Swedish combination. I so love it. The eucalyptus hot oil added to relax my aching muscles and mind. It was really an experience. I gave a tip of Php 100 to my masseuse for a good service. Definitely worth coming back for.

Lay-Bare Day

I was intrigue for the longest time since I heard of cold sugar waxing. Finally, after looking for the nearest and most convenient location for me, I have experienced how it feels like. Lay bare is on 3/F Market! Market!, Global City, Taguig. T'was the messiest and yet the cleanest work I have ever experience when it comes to waxing. At Lay-Bare they only use cold wax jelly made of sugar, calamansi and honey placed in small plastic cups. It was not really cold but its definitely not hot. I had my underarm waxed for Php 150 and the half leg waxing is Php 300. The wax will be stick directly to your skin and remove the hairs, unlike the hot ones where it will be spread on your legs and then stripped with a piece of white cloth. I can vouch that its really not that hurting. The technician who attended to me made sure that everything was taken out as she patiently even thread the smallest hairs. And speaking of which, I would definitely come back for upper lip threading.

However, here's what I think: One, they need to put cornstarch to your skin, so the wax will stick to your skin, which is so messy! and two, the whole process took about more than 1 hour. So it not recommended to those in a hurry. Good thing though is, I was comfortable since they have private waxing cubicle with real beds and my little darling was allowed to come inside where she took the liberty to breastfeed. The staff was so friendly and accommodating as well.

I would still prefer hot wax over the cold one, I like the hot thingy when spread to skin. but when it comes to the staff accommodation and convenience, I'd choose Lay-Bare.

Beauty and Butter

Bella and I were just playing on the 5th level of SM Megamall when I chance upon this newly opened beauty haven, Beauty & Butter.

The place has a nice touch of colorful pillows but everything else were black and white.

Curiousity struck so I had my upper lip threaded for Php 150. I was just not happy about it. I don't know how to thread my hair myself but I'm sure, the one who was assigned to do it to me were not either. I stopped her several times because she was already taking some of my facial hair out and all i received was a few laugh (hmm...did she thought I was joking?). Also, I am used to this service so it is not that hurting anymore, however, this one made me a little teary eyed, unlike the other ones I've tried who are really expert in threading, they do it with minimal pain.

Anyway, I haven't tried other services yet (which I am not sure if I want to) but because of their lower rates, maybe, just maybe, I may come back.

Besides, I'm still yet to avail of my birthday gift from Posh Nails. Free Manicure!