lioness in japan

Although I love exploring new countries, this holiday was really about resting. We had this running joke that we were stressed out with eating, swimming and drinking, “Babe, let’s go for a walk on the beach, then head for the bar for some White Russians. How does that sound to you?” “Wow, our schedule is packed!” The only activities we had to be on time for was our spa appointment and our diving expedition.

The spa

“Babe, we’ve got three hours of massage and treatments to do! That’s full on — we’re going to be new people!” the kangaroo informed me. Let me clarify it was his idea to get the full package of massage, facial, body wrap, steam bath and flower Jacuzzi. He said he has never had a body wrap or facial so he would like to try them. He chose an Oriental Wrap and navigated into unchartered waters. It had tumeric powder and other exotic spices which turned his skin bright yellow. “Baby, you’re truly Chinese now!” We always joke that he is more Chinese than me on the inside.

I loved the fragrant aromas and the gentle kneading on my stiff muscles. The only thing I didn’t enjoy too much was the body wrap because it felt increasingly hot as I lay on the bed. I had an itch on my nose but realised my arms were trapped in the cloth. Nevertheless, after the whole session I was exfoliated and rejuvenated.

This is a picture of our post-spa selves:

Diving

One thing I’m always happy to have in common with the kangaroo is he loves diving as much as me. He’s great as a buddy because he has had many years of experience and is always as cool as a cucumber. I’m always a little nervy before my first dive but I had nothing to worry about. The equipment looked like it was in top condition — no yellow mouldy masks or tatty wet suits. Also, we didn’t have to lift a finger. It was truly relaxing diving. I remember I used to tear across the causeway to Malaysia’s Tioman and Dayang on a Friday evening only to arrive at 5am the next morning and was expected to be fully geared up, in the water by 9am. Madness.

We decided to do just two dives and the dive masters took us to Cabilao, a small island within the territory of Bohol island, that was an hour’s boat ride from our resort.

This is the view of the island from our boat. After our first dive, we emerged from the sea refreshed and in awe of how beautiful the marine life was. We circled a wall of coral that seemed like it had no end depth-wise. I saw mostly small, colourful fish but that kept me happy. I don’t like strong currents but that’s a given if you want to see big creatures. We had a simple lunch of bbq fish, pork cutlets, shrimp, fried rice and salad on the island. With about a half hour to kill before setting off, I took a dip in these emerald waters. It felt great to float and not do or think about anything.

After such a workout, we had to treat ourselves to a romantic beach grill dinner.

I won’t put up the picture of us clinking our champagne glasses in a toast — it’s too sweet and romantic. You might get sick of my blog before long. Despite the onset of my shyness, I have to say it was an unforgettable cosy only-two-of-us-in-the-world kind of dinner date. With full bellies, we sausage-rolled to the beach bar for more fruity cocktails and a chat with the barman.

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