MGM’s soft white spa robe was one of the plushiest I’ve slipped myself into, but I soon slipped out of it and into the small Roman bath.
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In the midst of a stressful time, I’d Ubered to the National Harbor resort for a day at the spa with its soothing palette of dove grey and muted aqua. Early on a Friday morning, I had the whirlpool to myself. There is also a steam room, though the dry sauna wasn’t working. No problem, I love whirlpools.
A few minutes before my facial, I stepped out of my pink bathing suit and back into the white robe and waited on a soft chaise lounge in the quiet relaxation room. The aesthetician began by digitally examining my skin, noting that it’s very sensitive, which I knew, with good elasticity, which I didn’t. The sensitive-skin facial was on par with most high-end spas and left my eye area much less puffy. MGM uses Clarins products, which I’ve long loved for their cool comfort, pretty aromas, and reliable effectiveness. I mentioned that I’ve used the line’s Eye Contour Gel for years. The facialist recommended adding the Multi-Active Yeux cream.
Next it was downstairs for a top-notch haircut in the stark white salon with windows overlooking the resort’s main entrance. Someone mentioned having seen Cher arrive wearing a baseball cap and no make-up, so unrecognizably Cher that she only realized who it was because she knows the car that the resort sends for her. The stylist did exactly as I asked on my long-but-not-as-long, dark-but-not-as-dark, as Cher’s hair, and I followed her recommendation for layering the back.
With my wild tresses well tamed, I walked over to the nail area for a mani-pedi, also in line with most good spas. The manicurist let me keep the disposable tools and the bottle of essie’s ballet slippers that she used on my fingernails, though not the darker shade I’d chosen for my toes.
I thought I’d be leaving the MGM soon after my nails dried, but I lingered in the relaxation room before primping in the well-stocked vanity area. The snack mix was unfortunately irresistible, with generous pieces of rich dark chocolate. And the attendants kept offerring complementary sparkling wine–definitely not typical of casino spas. It’s a good thing I Ubered.
For two decades, I worked at political jobs. Then my parents got sick, and I went home to help care for them, and they died, fourteen weeks apart, in their late 60s. And I decided that life is too dear, and too uncertain, to fritter away in political offices. I fought back the sorrow with travel, and started this blog. I believe that passions are more fun when you share them with others, and my hope is to share my passions for travel and culture with you. Welcome! Read more …