Pampering

Every now and then we could all use a little pampering. What's better than a little lunch, some shopping and a pedicure??

This experience wasn't quite what we were used to: the whole pick your polish; sit back in one of those over size massage chairs; have feet scrubbed, scaled and seduced while you catch up on gossip with your girlfriends. This was a completely different kinda thing.

It's called Dr. Fish Zone. Let me explain: It's cafe, bookstore and pedi place all in one. For a measly 6,000 won (roughly 6 $) you are greeted with warm fresh rolls butter and jam, and a choice of coffee, juice or tea (unlimited). You can have a chat with friends, watch some television, play X-box or read some books and of course you can have the opportunity to have fish eat your feet if you are so inclined.

The place is quite classy, and once ready you're asked to rinse your feet in warm water. Once completed, you then plunge your feet into a cold aquarium style case embedded into the floor. No sand, no fancy backgrounds. A box filled with about 10 inches of water, and an average of 20-30- fish.

They are by no means underfed ( we noted a stash of fish food neatly tucked under a cabinet) and as soon as your feet are immersed under water, the feeding frenzy begins.

For 15 minutes the fish suction, nibble and nab at your toes. Initially uncomfortable and ticklish, you soon give in to the experience. The three of us sat there, squirming-- trying to understand the logic of this kinda treatment! I only had a few nibbles at my feet, the lot of them were much more interested in my friend's soles. (I was quite relieved actually!)

It really didn't do much, and I would much prefer a conventional pedi- complete with having my toes polished and primed- but at least we gave it a go.