When we moved to Malaysia last year and finally got settled, I found myself thinking about how I miss Manila and my regular hangouts. The nail salon that has branches everywhere in Metro Manila – always so convenient for me to just drop by where I’m nearest to, anytime I’m in need of a manicure – my favourite waxing place, my go-to place for a massage, etc.
Oh, and how could I forget Oliver – the only person I trust when it comes to trimming my curls. (In case you’re in Manila, you can find him at Vivere Salon in Megamall)
A few weeks into moving here, I found myself with really long nails sporting chipped nail polish. A month later, I had dry hair and my curls were starting to become unruly. Oh, and don’t get me started on my need for waxing back then. Moving into a new country, starting from scratch, and trying out new things can be pretty exciting but when it comes to beauty-related services, I find it hard to take risks. I only want the best services as I cannot stand another waxing accident (more on that later) or a bad hair cut.
Along came Beauty Guide, a website that was brought to my attention by none other than my sister (all the way in Denmark!). A friend of hers recently put it up in Malaysia and was starting to make waves among beauty and personal care aficionados in the country.
Since I signed up late last year, I never had problems when it comes to where to go for any kind of service. I simply just click on what I want, where I want it, and voila – fail-safe recommendations! I love how I can review and also see what other Beauty Guide users are saying about the establishment as well.
Imagine my delight when I was recently invited for a Beauty Guide event where they took us around the city for a beauty day out. The best part? I got to do it with my friends. <3
The day started out at Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf in Bangsar Village II. We had a little meet up and my friend Tammy found out early on the best part of her goody bag:
I approve of this! Haha! Kidding, la! 😉
FIRST STOP: Waxing at Strip, Bangsar
We then trooped to Strip in Bangsar (just a few steps away!) for a wax. It’s not my first time in Strip as it’s actually my trusted waxing salon not just in Manila but here in Kuala Lumpur as well.
I’m a Strip veteran and will keep coming back to their branches because of their awesome service. Fast, hygienic, thorough. 😉 They can even wax you for under 15 minutes! The first time I heard about that guarantee, I was in disbelief and actually scared that it might hurt more or that they won’t be as meticulous as they should be.
However, they always leave me impressed. And the fact that they can do it so fast means less time under much needed torture. 😉
Go bare or go home! 😉 Anis, Miriam, and our new friend who seems to be in desperate need of some waxing!
SECOND STOP: MASSAGE AT THE MANDARA SPA
I’ll admit. This is the part that I was excited for the most. My husband and I were so stressed during that week due to so many events leading up to Independence Day and I was totally desperate for some R&R.
Thanks for this photo, Beauty Guide!
I loved the walk from Sunway Hotel (where we were dropped off) to Mandara Spa. It’s like being in a lush, green, paradise.
https://instagram.com/p/3u_j9hoYJp/
Entering Mandara Spa is like leaving KL and being transported to Bali, Indonesia. From the decor to the feel and scent that’s wafting in the air, the place is just so relaxing.
Prior to our massage, we were given warm tea. We were also asked to try and choose which among the spa’s oils we wanted to be used for our massage. I opted for the calming and moisturising one as my dry skin is in need of some serious TLC.
As expected, the massage left me feeling renewed and revitalised. My masseuse was so good and attentive whenever I would ask for more pressure. I wanted to sleep right then and there after my massage! But of course, I had to put my clothes back on and head over to our next stop! Our day of pampering isn’t over yet! 😉
THIRD STOP: WIP AT BANGSAR SHOPPING CENTRE
Having way too much fun with my friends, I didn’t realise that it was already lunch time and I was actually hungry!
Thanks for the rides that day, Uber! <3
We went to WIP, one of Bangsar’s most popular restaurants. I hear about it all the time from friends who live in the area but I never got around to actually eating here. So finally, timing is on my side!
That day, we were served the new items on the menu which are going to be available for Raya. But first, we decided to start happy hour a bit early. Check out my Ginger Blush Mojito!
It’s so good! I recommend it to all mojito lovers out there. I love the ginger-y kick!
Now, on to the food! 😉
First up is the Bacalhau de Abras, it consists of sweet potato chips and creamy Portuguese salt cod fish. I loved this so much, it made me feel full right away. You dip the chips into the cod fish, take a bite, and enjoy the slightly-salty taste.
School Prawn is your regular, deep fried crispy prawn served with lemon and chilli mayo. A must if you’re having a drink with friends. 😉
The Greek Berry Salad definitely wins in the ‘Most Photogenic’ dish category. It’s colourful and looks so inviting. It doesn’t fall short when it comes to taste as well. Made out of three different kinds of berries, red radish, olives, crispy romaine, feta cheese, and honey lemon vinaigrette, this is certainly a must-try for people who are trying to watch their weight yet still craving for something sweet.
The Triple Trio Supreme Pizza is going to be a crowd favourite – no doubt about it. It’s got three of everything! Chicken sausage, chicken ham, and grilled chicken. Onion rings, cocktail onions, and onion marmalade. Mozzarella, cheddar, and Emmental cheese. I love the thin crust it comes with. It makes me feel less guilty for eating more than one slice. 😀
Tender, flavourful, marinated chicken served in a really creative manner. What’s not to like in the Chicken Espatada?
Dipping sauces, anyone?
While the Chicken Espatada was good, I’ll have to admit that I loved the beef version better. The meat was really tender with the most gorgeous shade of pink in the middle – indicating that it’s cooked just the way I like it. Here it is, cut up and served for eating:
I was on a no rice diet for several days before this event and I had a few more days to go with it. However, I have to break my own rules to try out the XO Fried Rice. Dried seafood served with crab meat, kale, mango sauce, and a crispy fish skewer, this dish was totally worth it. 😉
The Rocky Road Brownie with Haagen Dazs Ice Cream is for a bonafide sweet tooth. It’s smooth, creamy, and a bit fudgy as well. I admit, it was a bit too sweet for my liking, to be honest.
The Tiramisu was something that I could eat all day though. I loved the light, fluffy texture in every bite and its light sweetness as well.
LAST STOP: APRONBAY, BANGSAR
Lastly, we went to Apronbay to get our nails done. I love the concept of this nail and waxing salon as it’s travel-themed.
“Apronbay” is actually an aviation term referring to an area in an airport where plane passengers embark or disembark. It is also the place where planes are re-fueled and spruced up for its next journey.
Their waxing rooms have the cutest doors that look like they belong to an actual plane. Each room also features a different destination.
The room where you get your nails done isn’t too shabby either. 😉
What’s your colour?
What an awesome way to end that day. I had so much fun with my blogger friends and getting to know the team behind Beauty Guide.
If you’re from Malaysia or visiting any time soon, it would be great to try some of these establishments. They offer great service and will definitely make your stay here memorable. You can check schedules and services available on the Beauty Guide website and event make appointments through the contact details of each establishment provided there. It’s that simple!
More later, my loves!
Carol
