As most of you know, I was away this weekend. Luckily I didn’t spend as much money as I normally do and got some great food deals and free stuff. Kiehl’s gave us a free mini facial using products for your skin type. I had to purchase something from them anyways but my friend got the facial too and the staff doesn’t make you feel pressured if you walk away not buying anything.

My trip started off with me upgrading my ticket to business class 24hrs beforehand for a cheaper price. I was able to enjoy the airport lounge before my flight which was very nice. Free WiFi, free booze (though I didn’t take advantage of that), free food, coffee, drinks, magazines (I took 4 with me to the plane though there were a few dozen available) and comfortable spots to sit.  I wouldn’t say it was worth the $140 I paid but I did have to find out what the fuss was all about. I suppose it would be worth it had I had to wait hours at the airport before a flight but otherwise it’s just a little luxury that’s not worth the cash in my opinion. The seats on the aircraft are bigger and as soon as you walk into the plane they are offering you water or juice, then we were served a cheese platter and fruit and wine if we wanted. Earphones were free as well. I might pay the $35 for lounge access if I needed to wait awhile, but not the $140 for lounge and business class seat. I flew in economy on the way back and it was fine, no complaints.

We had a rushed weekend in a sense, I couldn’t walk very fast and Saturday the weather was terrible. We ate a tasty cheap lunch ($5) consisting of a tofu burger, fresh salad and REAL fries! We did a little shopping and I bought 3 things which were all priced down; a trenchcoat, a dress and a long tunic.  We enjoyed the complimentary breakfast at the hotel and also purchased a $17 3-day tourist pass so we can hop on and off buses and metros in town. Well worth the price as one fare is $2.75!

I also got the best pedicure in my life for $30 at one of those Asian Nail places. Since the operation, my feet have been in desperate need of some cleaning up!  The quality was better than any spa I had been to though I must say the atmosphere was rather bland and non-inviting. I was there for over an hour while she paid close attention to detail making sure my feet were in perfect condition. The pedicure included a scrub and leg massage which lasted awhile. I was impressed.

I will finally tackle making pumpkin butter and soap this weekend. I am behind on gift making for Yule and now that the kitchen is more or less functional I will start production. Stay tuned for my pumpkin butter recipe which I will invent as I go along!