Ever since booking the Kilimanjaro hike way back in February, we had been looking forward to the spa day we were going to enjoy after finishing. Today is that day. Finally. The town of Moshi is well set up to take care of the tourists before and after their climb, however we are in low season so many of the spas aren’t yet ready to receive clients. Luckily, we had our driver do a bit of recon for us and found us some options.

We chose the Janne Spa and had Denis take us there. We were glad we did because I don’t think we would have found it. There are no signs, no house or building numbers, no indication whatsoever as to where the spa might be. In fact, even Denis had to call the spa and get specific instructions as we were circling the block. Yeah, we never would have found it on our own.

As we arrived, the gates opened and we were able to see a nice house behind them with a young woman waiting on the step to greet us. She leads us right into their living room. The TV was blaring, somebody is in the kitchen preparing a meal and we realize we are legit in somebody’s house. Well, this is awkward. And a little bit weird. That is exactly what the spa owner said to us, “This must seem a bit strange to you, right?” We smiled politely and followed her as she led us to the ‘special room.’

The room at the end of the hallway was set up beautifully. There were two proper massage tables set up with nice sheets, rose petals, and all the fixings. Aaaahhhh. This is more like it! We start to relax and prepare for our Tanzanian Spa Experience.

There are two ladies waiting to give me my treatments:

1. A four handed massage
2. A foot massage
3. A facial

Jason, who can’t touch his legs or walk without wincing has chosen:

1. A hot oil massage (stay away from the quads!!)
2. A foot massage
3. A neck and shoulder massage

I would be lying if I said it was the best spa experience we’ve ever had, but, it was still great. The ladies were so fun and we had a really good time with them. A great blend of conversation and quiet. We (well, us ladies) especially enjoyed laughing at poor Jason as he whimpered throughout his massage. He was in so much pain. Hopefully this will help speed up the healing and make him feel at least a little bit better.

Spa days always end too quickly and this one was no different. Before we knew it, we were changing back into our clothes and paying our bill. Considering how many treatments we each got, the bill itself was quite modest and they were extremely grateful for the 15% tip we gave them. We got so many hugs! Such sweet, sweet ladies.

To finish our day, we decided to walk the thirty minutes back to the hotel. Being the only Muzungus in the area, we certainly drew attention. “Hello!” “How are you?” “Where are you from?” “Good morning!” were shouted at us as we walked down the street by kids and adults alike.

School was getting out and the students loved to practice their English with us. We ran into one group of teenagers that were heading to their extra tutoring classes. One of the young men took the opportunity to question us about life and education in Canada. He says he makes it a point to talk with foreigners as much as possible so he can practice his English with native speakers. What dedication.

We had to say good-bye as we reached our hotel. While the day was still young, we decided to call it. No sense in undoing all that spa relaxation!