This was part of her job. Penny lounged by the pool on an outstretched chair. She wore a small bikini to get a nice tan. Since she was working, she kept her eyes and ears open to observe the environment.
So far, this place was living up to the hype as being one of Miami's premier destinations for adults looking to unwind. Most of the clientele seemed like business people or tourists with extra time on their hands. There was light banter, but for the most part, people were enjoying some alone time.
She discreetly peeked around. Not only was this place luxurious, clean, and designed with grandeur, the staff was also a real dream. She observed the exclusively female team offer meticulous service to each guest, bringing drinks, food, or whatever accommodations needed. All with beautiful smiles.
In a few minutes, she'd take a dip in the water where she'd swim a few laps. Afterwards, she had an appointment for a full-body massage, followed by a spa treatment in mineral water.
Although this sounds like a vacation, this truly was an essential part of her job. She lived by three important tenets, which were the foundation of her career.
1. Her first rule was that she'd NEVER sell her good name. She couldn't be bought. If anyone ever found out, her credibility would be out the window. Plus, she prided herself on being a woman with strong morals.
2. No advance notice, no announcements, and no freebies. It was a breach of ethics in her profession to receive free stuff, as it would be seen as a quid pro quo. Once that happens, there goes your credibility.
3. Finally, and most importantly, she had to be well-versed, if not an outright expert in this field. She had to constantly learn, observe, and experience new things to be the best at her job. She prided herself on always showing a great depth of knowledge in her writings.
Having had enough sunlight for one morning, she stood up and did a little stretch in her bikini before diving into the pool.
She swam a few laps and really worked her muscles for the massage that was to follow. The glowing reviews on Yelp had mentioned how divine the full-body massages are, and she wanted to feel the full benefits.
When she emerged from the water, she pulled her hair back and wiped her eyes, and saw a professionally dressed Cuban woman standing by the pool to greet her.
"Penny, right?" the woman asked with a lovely smile.
Everything about this woman suggested management. It was obvious from the special uniform and the ultra confidence in her demeanor.
"That's me," Penny smiled back, wiping the water from her face again. "Excuse me while I dry myself."
"Allow me to get you a towel."
Penny stepped out of the pool and graciously accepted a towel from the Cuban woman and dried herself on the spot. With the hot weather, getting dry was easy. Her hair was slicked back with water and she focused on her body.
"Thank you," Penny said, finishing herself off. "You must be the manager."
"Carmella Lopez," the manager said, extending a handshake. "It's a pleasure to have you here."
They shook hands and smiled.
"Pleasure to be here. This is quite a place you're running. And I get personal service from the manager. Thanks again for grabbing this towel for me."
When Penny was done drying herself, she tossed the towel over her shoulder. In yet another act of service, the manager graciously took the towel and called out to an employee in Spanish to take it away.
"Customer service is what we do," Carmella said, shooing her employee away. "I must admit, I know who you are. I recognized you a while ago. I checked the waitlist for the spa to confirm."
This was one of the downsides of appearing on tv; it was harder to remain anonymous. But at the same time, it felt good being recognized. Penny didn't consider herself a celebrity, but she did enjoy the occasional perks.
Penny held her chin high and winked. "What can I say? I work hard and play hard too."
They both laughed and Penny knew that this woman was interested in further conversation.
"Are you here for work?" Carmella asked.
Exactly as Penny expected. Business owners or managers usually become tense and on-guard whenever they find out that she's around. Of course they'd be.
"Yes, I am officially working," Penny smiled with pride. "I'm currently touring the best spa services and pools in North America. I'm about halfway finished on my list of places to go."
"How fun. I'm positive this place stacks up well. Our service is the best in the world. Guaranteed."
"Oh? What's the secret? Everyone high-end place has a secret for success, I've come to learn."
"Passion, a taste for service, our commitment. A magic touch always helps. It's difficult for me to explain in English, as it can be a real tongue twister, literally."
Carmella gave a cute wink at the end.
"I'm excited," Penny proclaimed. "You know, I've heard so many great things about your spa and massage treatment. Not just from online reviews, but friends of mine who come to Miami. They say it's unforgettable."
"Yes it is. I designed the program myself. And thank you, it's sweet of you to say. All I ask is that you keep an open mind to our services."
"I can assure you, I can be harsh, but I'm also fair. I love giving props when it's deserved."
"Hmmm... my heart is racing."
Penny laughed. "You have nothing to worry about."
"I'm more excited than anything else. I can only assume that you've had hundreds of spa treatments over your lifetime. Mine is different. I'm very, very proud of it. It brings joy to so many over-stressed women."
"That's wonderful to hear. My expectations just went up, though."
There was a look of eagerness in Carmella's eyes, and Penny was unsure of what to make of it. Normally, Penny would do her job unbeknownst to the managers and/or owners. Being spotted and singled-out for preferential treatment could taint her review, but oh well.
Carmella gave a sultry expression. "Your appointment starts soon. May I escort you to the private room?"
"That would be delightful."
They walked towards the spa area while she was still wearing her bikini. They made small talk along the way and Penny realized that they were both like-minded working women, who had a taste for life's riches.
Before they entered the spa building, Carmella put her fingers on Penny's shoulders and gave a soft rub.
"One other thing," Carmella said. "We run a strict and professional business here. But for select clients, we sometimes go above and beyond. I'm sure you can appreciate the need for discretion."
"What do you mean?"
"Some things are better left un-reported."
Penny gingerly stood her ground. "I get why you'd be concerned. It's normal for people to be a little intimidated by me. All I can say is that I'm thoroughly impressed so far. Why? Is there anything specific I should know?"