Since India is famous for the development of ayurvedic spa treatments, it was decided that I would write a spa report on the Leela Resort where I stayed in Kovalam. As such, I was given three spa treatments throughout my stay in India (two in Kovalam, one in Mumbai) and let me tell you, my first one was an eye-opening experience. I walked into the room for my massage and was instructed to strip down completely. The masseuse never left the room and I felt a bit awkward disrobing while she stood there. However, eager for the massage, I quickly got over any awkwardness and lay down. Perhaps it was my naivete, but I expected a full-body massage similar to ones I had experienced here at home; boy, was I wrong! Full-body in India translates to full-body. Modesty flew out the window as my backside and chest were massaged. My eyes flew open when I felt hands working on areas strangers do not normally see, let alone touch. Needless to say, I was not too relaxed. Since you are rubbed with a therapeutic oil (not known for its fragrance), I had to shower after the massage. The ever impeccable level of service at the hotel reached new heights when the masseuse offered to help me dry off and assist me in getting dressed!  It was an interesting experience to say the very least, and when I recount the story to my friends and family who know me very well, they crack up. Friends have called days after I told them of my experience and told me how they have passed it along to so-and-so and how they keep thinking of it and laughing. My next spa experience was a head, neck and shoulder massage. After the massage was over, I lay back while the spa technicians poured hot oil over my head for a half hour. It was incredibly relaxing and I had the best sleep of my trip that night. The following day I had another full-body massage (I requested some additional coverage!), followed by a treatment with herbal pouches. I would not call myself an overly modest person, but I must admit that the first treatment made me uncomfortable. However, I respected the cultural differences and experienced the massage as it was intended. This was a perfect example of cultural differences. This is my last blog dedicated to India. It was an interesting trip to take, and I hope you all found it interesting to read about! -Kimberly Krol, Circulation and Public Relations Executive