Feeling grateful for "who you know".
There is no way on earth I imagined being asked out to lunch by someone who has a membership at the Chewton Glen hotel. This is one of the most prestigious hotel locations on the south coast. They make no bones about being expensive. But they are classy about it. As long as you have the cash, (and you will need it), you are welcome. I like that.
A place doesn't have to be snobby to be classy. T-shirts and trainers are ok. But with the look of the place, you want to dress a little fancier. Your best t-shirt and trainers perhaps.
I'm sitting in the entrance to the spa waiting for my friend (a top executive for an insurance company) who has invited me out to lunch. I mean who says no to that. Ladies who lunch is life goals for me.
I've arrived onto the grounds with no barriers and parked the car amongst other understated vehicles. My humble Honda Jazz doesn't seem out of place at all which is a welcome surprise.
I've entered into a cottage come Grecian feel building with fabulous air-conditioning and free WiFi. There is a nail studio, loos, a room for hire and stairs up to a reception desk and lunch buffet. Plus (I assume) the rest of the features of the spa.
I'm feeling in place. I often feel out of place in somewhere like this but it doesn't feel like I should be.
My friend has arrived and we head upstairs. There is a welcoming space with comfy chairs and tables with views over the grounds. She casually points to a table and says to the staff members 2 for lunch over there. Such a boss move! We head over to the buffet, gather gorgeous salads, wraps, soups, bread etc as well as puddings and when we get back to the table there are cutlery settings and a bottle of water with 2 glasses.
The food was delicious and fresh with such a lovely summer vibe that is needed on this hot hot day. We are left alone by staff to just chat, put the world to rights and look out at the beautiful view.
After lunch we head to the spa area where we get changed in the poshest changing room I've ever been in. Lots of amenities, space to move around and easy to use lockers to keep your items safe.
Down stairs again and straight out into the outside hot tub. I was expecting to be too hot given the 27 degree heat but I was pleasantly surprised. 25 minutes later we headed inside to the hydrotherapy area where there is every possible contraption for blowing water at your body quickly.
After a little while and use of most of the water blowing machines and we head into the main pool area. The water seems too cool after the warmth of the hydrotherapy but actually it was very comfortable to swim in. Gliding along in the pool with the sunlight shining in through the skylight above and glinting on the water and up to the ceiling is pure heaven.
I was there to help my friend who is going through a tough time. But she helped me to realise that some of the best the nicest things can come from allowing who you know to help you out right back.
Until Next Time
Xx
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