The Verdict

After the fact, we learned that Ms. Busy Bee didn't get all of the services that we had ordered. So, the following is our review from our beloved Addict Undercover, but we follow-up questions following Ms. Busy Bee's review when we found out a service was "missing!" 

As for Ms. Busy Bee's verdict, read on with her real words …

The reality is, I am a graphic designer, marketing machine and really busy mom. I am constantly on the lookout for new opportunities to build my business or the business of my clients. That is how I began receiving the spa addicts e-newsletter. My sister, being a massage therapist, included me on the enewsletter list of spa addicts so I could enter their contests and see the terrific way spa addicts is marketing the services of others. The reality of ME actually taking the time to book an appointment and get a treatment is not very realistic. I did give massage appointments to my mom and sister for Christmas last year though!

Dreamily, my 11 year old daughter and I were sparked by one of the weekend get-aways that was being promoted by Spa addicts in the last enewsletter. I responded to Mary Blackmon seeking more info on the weekend event. It just wasn't possible for me to afford the time or money for my daughter and I to go. After submitting my plight and story to Addicts Undercover, Spa addicts asked ME to be their Addict Undercover here in Atlanta! They were curious if a busy bee like me could and would take the time to really enjoy a spa experience.

I was so excited I could hardly contain myself. NOBODY ever does anything such as this to spoil me! I have to say - my man gives great massages but having one in a spa is an event that is truly pampering.

I usually have to have everything scheduled and in order. The whole mission was a secret, which for me is a challenge!

When I realized it would take almost half a day for me to participate I was hesitant to go. Even though downtown Atlanta is only 20 minutes from home, maneuvering around can be as overwhelming as going to Europe! This also meant I had to coordinate not getting work done and having my kids taken care of while I am being pampered.

The Spa Intercontinental was my venture. I left an hour before hand expecting trouble parking but had none; the hotel valet took care of my vehicle. I arrived early and was greeted with enthusiasm. Not knowing what to expect, I was very pleased to find out a massage and facial were my surprise treatment. At 43 years young, skin care is very important and hey, who doesn’t love a great massage.

The front desk offered a chance to exercise in the gym or to relax in the hot tub. Normally I would work out but I opted to get a bite to eat downstairs in the very fanciful restaurant where I was also treated as if I were the only guest in the hotel!

My wonderful therapist at the Spa Intercontinental was Teeko Grebe. Teeko with over 20 years experience, REALLY knows the anatomy of the body and asked just the right questions to provide an incredible massage. Teeko identified the ribs I had out of place and massaged all the surrounding areas that were radiating pain. She recommended ideas to alleviate my symptoms as well. The room was just the right temperature and the music discreet; it enhanced the experience rather than some music that distracts. The facial was quick as she spent most of the time on my massage yet it completed the treatment. As Teeko left I lay on the table basking in the glory of… how the hell did I get so lucky to have this land in my lap? All I can say is it must be the law of attraction at work. I wanted a relaxing experience and just by claiming I needed it I got one. The only downfall of this phenomenon was Jessica, my daughter did not get to go, so now she wants a massage from me every night to make up for her being left out (music and all)!

Everyone was quite attentive and accommodating, they did not rush me at all. The service was outstanding in every area of the venue.  After the fact, Spa Addicts discovered that the spa actually did not include the $35 Hand Treatment, which had been ordered. So, we had a few questions.

SPA ADDICTS: did you receive a hand treatment? Or was it just unmemorable? It wasn't mentioned in your review. No, she massaged my hands, I think, but it was not a "treatment." She had to work quickly on the facial, because she put more time in on the massage. What was memorable was that she had the strength to give me such a  DEEP tissue massage. It is RARE to find someone who has the grace, skill and strength as she had.  

SPA ADDICTS: Did you feel relaxed afterwards or did you feel that this threw a wrench in your day?

BUSY BEE: Yes, to be frank.  Dealing with traffic, parking, elevators, and still having to be mom when I got home did not fully allow me to revel in the relaxation. As I mentioned, I lay on the table for three minutes when the therapist left the room. That was when I felt the most relaxed. I jumped up and realized, wow, I have to hurry if I am going to get to the Southside in time to cook dinner and get Joss to soccer.

SPA ADDICTS: How did this affect you, having this scheduled in the middle of your day?

BUSY BEE:I truly enjoyed the experience of being in the spa. The middle of the day as a busy bee is better than not at all. Realistically for me to get away on the weekend, that would be even more challenging. At least during the day my kids are at school and I could schedule accordingly to be there on time.

Thanks Mary, Spa Intercontinental, Teeko and especially my boyfriend Tommy who managed the home front so I could have this great experience.

And, thank you, Sonja. For showing us that Busy Bees like you – and us – can still afford a little me-time, too!

Spa Addicts Verdict: Although Ms. Busy Bee really enjoyed the treatment, we felt that $35 went down the drain. And, ultimately some of the overall treatment quality suffered due to time constraints.  But it seems that the therapist was quite talented, so perhaps that makes up for the rest. But, it really does seem hard to get it all in during the course of a busy day. Hmmmm…