romantic getaway at island cove

for valentine's day 2010, junjun and i spent it by availing the package offered by island cove in cavite.

after checking into the room, there were two boxes of chocolate hearts for us to munch on. the room was spacious enough for two people. there was a closet, a veranda, a big bed, and a nice toilet and bath. most of all, there was free wi-fi! ^_^

we ate a box of the chocolate, browsed thru some television programs, then had a nap.

after the nap, at around 6pm, we proceeded to the island spa, where we will be having our massage. it was a nice whole body massage which lasted for about an hour. at the end of the massage, we were given hot tea (with hint of ginger) to further relax us.

we then went back to our hotel room, where we changed our clothes and got ready for the dinner. it was served at the resort's sangley point restaurant. for the package, they had 2 set meals which you could choose from. this comes with a glass of red or white wine for each of you.

first came the seafood chowder. this was very tasty. the soup was creamy and at the same time, you can identify each of the bits of the seafood present in the soup. the soup was accompanied with pieces of garlic bread.

next came the main course. junjun had tuna belly, while i had the lamb with mint jelly. both of the dishes were flavorful and cooked just right. my lamb was very tender, and one could taste the rosemary that was used to flavor the meat.

while having dinner, we were also serenaded by an acoustic band. they sang our song, "till they take my heart away" and "ikaw."

for dessert, we had strawberry shortcake a la mode, which was a perfect ending to our dinner.

our stay also entitled us to use the pool for free, but we decided to just stay in the room the next day until we checked out.

Island Cove Hotel and Leisure Park
Binakayan, Kawit, Cavite Philippines 4104
(+632) 810-7878

california nail and day spa

Last saturday, i decided to try out the newly-opened california nail and day spa at SM Malll of Asia.

When you enter their shop, you will be greeted by friendly front desk staff asking you what service you want. The place is nicely decorated, and is very girlish in their motiff colors of pink, purple and white. i also liked the chandelier that was hanging in the ceiling.

I opted to get only a pedicure. I seated for a while at the waiting area, and then i was introduced to the nail technician who will be doing my nails.

The nail technician was very friendly and efficient at what she does. She asks me everytime regarding what i want to be done with my pedicure like if i want my cuticles cleaned, my nails filed or cut, etc.

I opted to use the Orly nail polish for an additional of Php 20.00. The technician recommended it since it lasts long and does not chip. I chose the red color, which my feet look nice and clean.

The chair where i sat while i was being serviced was very comfy. After nail polish was applied, cute little electric fans were used to speed up the drying process. The bill also arrived in a tray, so that you don't have to get up and go to the front desk for payment.

For Php 220.00+, i could say that i was satisfied with my pedicure since it included feet scrubbing and a massage.

Other services include nail art, paraffin, spa manicure/pedicure, facials and massages.

If you want to indulge and pamper yourself, this is one place you could go to.