Ooh, a little to the left.  Up. Down. That’s the spot.  Get your minds outta’ the gutter.  I’m referring to the stellar massage I received at Savi Day Spa at the Sheraton Tacoma Hotel. 



When owner Kelly Wilson invited me and a guest to come in for side-by-side massages, I was more than stoked.  So, it being the day before V-day and all, I asked my significant other to join me.  Although back in the day, there was no greater gift than the humble mixed tape after my 25th birthday I’ve found it a little ill-received.  Besides, what man wouldn’t love another woman caressing his phalanges while his girlfriend lied next door?



I must admit, I was curious to see how they would treat one from the “other side” in the precious female abode that is the day spa.  Many spas around Tacoma claim that they’re equipped to cater to men, “if needed,” as one spa told me.  It was obvious that some didn’t welcome the opposite sex with open arms. 



So, when the friendly voice from Savi Day Spa called to confirm my appointment, I felt it necessary to tell them who was coming along.  Surprisingly, she sounded thrilled.  “We’d love to have you and your boyfriend in.”



After looking at all of the goods that Savi offers, I wasn’t too surprised.  The spa has a full range of services designed uniquely for you men.  A package titled “The Gentleman’s Retreat” offers a variety of ways that are sure to rejuvenate your masculine self. 



They’ll start with a Savi facial, a core treatment that can be customized to serve your skin type.  Then a Sport Scrub, a vigorous water treatment.  A 60-minute massage comes next.  Lower back been killing you at work?  They’ll customize it to target your problem areas.  Amazing.  A hot stone foot rescue comes next, followed by a catered lunch.  It all takes place in the privacy of the dimly lit spa and lasts four and a half hours!  Of course you can always choose just one service if you’re crunched for time. 



Valet is on the house when at Savi, so we didn’t have to worry about parking.  However, I was worried that just being in the presence of such femininity would make Sharkface uncomfortable.  To my surprise, among the women working inside was a handsome young man.  He greeted us and was on his way.  Nice touch.



They gave us big, comfy robes and slippers along with tea and water before we changed.  We stripped down, and our spa therapists, Mariah and Brenda, put hot neck wraps around our heads.  Ahhh … ahhh … .



After being guided upstairs to our private room, the young ladies allowed us to tell them our problem areas.  The room was dim with candles and soft music singing in the background.  Nothing was too feminine though, just soothing.  We both felt completely comfortable the entire time.  I even fell asleep for a minute while Brenda rubbed my dogs, and I think Sharkface was considering what it might be like to date a masseuse. 



The girls gave me some coupons afterward good for a free upgrade, like from a regular massage to a hot stone massage.  I’m giving them out first come, first serve.  If you see me about town, whether it’s at Wintergrass or on the Link and Drink, don’t forget to ask. 



A lot of spas may say that men are welcome, but actions speak louder than words, unless we’re talking about text message flirtation.  Savi Day Spa serves men as well as women.  After all, they need some pampering now and again too. 



Eventually, we all come up short, whether it’s in the lunchroom (who ate my sandwich?) or in the bedroom (who took my pants off?).  But you should never take chances when it comes to spas — the only place where a “quickie” is bad.  Savi Day Spa is a sure thing, gentlemen.  Request Mariah or Brenda and you’re sure to get a proper massage.  I promise. 



[Savi Day Spa, “Gentleman’s Retreat” $355, 60-minute massage $80, 30-minute massage $50, 90-minute massage $110, pregnancy massage $95, one-hour facial $85, Tacoma Sheraton, 1320 Broadway Plaza, Tacoma, 253.627.2000]