Hydro therapy

As if to purge ourselves from the heat and dust, Maria and I checked into the Hilton spa this afternoon to detox from the mental and physical demands of the week. Let me just say, I could become quite used to this.

We stepped into a large effervescent pool - a Turkish bath - reminiscent of the Caribbean both in color and temperature. As the jets swirled around us, we were brought lemon water in glasses the same color as the pool. A light flower aroma therapy was present in the air. On the weekends, it is open to men and women, and it felt like we were in a Russian immigrant community with large people in small bathing suits. I do not think there were any Russians actually, mostly men and women from the region seeking the respite of the Hilton where social rules are relaxed.

After we stepped out of the pool, we wrapped ourselves in warm towels completely and laid on chaise lounges. After an hour or so, we went into the steam room, the marbled jacuzzi, and then back on the lounges. It was invigorating and completely relaxing at the same time. Even though Russ is not a member, he could come on a guest pass whenever he wanted for a small fee.

Maria and I joked about at some point bringing our cameras and taking photos of everything because it is so schmancy. The thick Egyptian towels are just so heavy; a simple shower feels luxurious.

Tomorrow we will probably go back to our regular gym routine but this was divine. We could do both but probably only have time on the weekends. We are quickly finding out that this is a place to work and save money, but there is not much time for anything else.

Last night, Russ and I slept for ten hours after watching Napolean Dynamite and eating take-out. Just needed to catch up on our sleep and mental energy.

This morning, we had Shawn and Melissa over from Toronto for tea and conversation. They last taught in Korea and have so much young energy. Melissa loves to cook and is mostly vegetarian like us, so we are often trade recipe ideas. Then we decided to make a run to the Lulu Hypermarket. It is the only place I have been able to find almond butter and I bought every jar they had (four). What we have not been able to find is ground cinnamon though! We are rationing the small bottle we brought along. There is such a large olive selection, that every time I am there I try a new one out. This week it is Egyptian olives which are a pale yellow and more mild than the salty black Lebanese ones. I may start taste testing dates soon too.

I have gotten to know one of taxi drivers - Shahul - well, and call him regularly. That way we get a regular rate and he is on time for us. Taxi fares range from USD 4 to 12 for most places. His English isn't great, but he has a swell smile and drives safely (which cannot be said of most people here).