It hadn't occurred to me that, after my last-minute, 1 AM packing, I would leave my work phone in the adjacent room, then promptly neglect my alarm and continue dozing until the 10 AM mark. Plans with the sleepy polar bear were to commence at 11:30 AM. Snapping out of my daze quickly, I began to rush my morning routine.
It also hadn't occurred to me that it was possible to have a nation-wide service outage, with all communications (texts, calls, data, and Wi-Fi) provided by Rogers coming to a halt. Those that were impacted were not made aware of such circumstances until opening their eyes the next morning.
Thankfully, I had been minimally affected the disruption, given my loss of cell signal but retention of Wi-Fi. The sleepy polar bear, on the other hand, was less fortunate, and resolved to an early arrival to prevent uncertainties in our plan.
It also hadn't occurred to me that it was possible to have a nation-wide service outage, with all communications (texts, calls, data, and Wi-Fi) provided by Rogers coming to a halt. Those that were impacted were not made aware of such circumstances until opening their eyes the next morning.
Thankfully, I had been minimally affected the disruption, given my loss of cell signal but retention of Wi-Fi. The sleepy polar bear, on the other hand, was less fortunate, and resolved to an early arrival to prevent uncertainties in our plan.
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Preparing my ensemble - somewhat sluggishly, if I may add - we eventually succeeded in departing around 12:15 PM, roughly forty-five minutes tardier than anticipated (oops). Offline maps proved extremely useful: despite lack of awareness surrounding traffic conditions, the route was clear (and surprisingly not as congested as I would have imagined). I peered warily at the Android Auto screen, pondering the whereabouts of this surprise excursion.
At about quarter past 1, we pulled into First Markham Place. "Really?" I thought aloud, "I took a day off to come to Markham?! To come to FMP??!"
I must have sounded shocked and dismayed, for worry passed over the sleepy polar bear. "You don't like here?"
My gaze was directed towards Brown Donkatsu, yet the suggestion was ill-received. My throat was still hoarse from the previous day's banh mi blaze; furthermore, I wasn't keen on absorbing the greasy fumes of Sonoya's successor. Neither of my past visits had been particularly memorable, after all.
At about quarter past 1, we pulled into First Markham Place. "Really?" I thought aloud, "I took a day off to come to Markham?! To come to FMP??!"
I must have sounded shocked and dismayed, for worry passed over the sleepy polar bear. "You don't like here?"
My gaze was directed towards Brown Donkatsu, yet the suggestion was ill-received. My throat was still hoarse from the previous day's banh mi blaze; furthermore, I wasn't keen on absorbing the greasy fumes of Sonoya's successor. Neither of my past visits had been particularly memorable, after all.
I proposed taking a gander in the food court instead, given that my lateness was endangering our scheduled appointment anyway. As we neared the area, my eyes met those of a familiar face - it was ochungg! Long had been our last in-person meeting, and both of us were equally astounded by the fated encounter.
Parting ways, I noted nothing of interest within the plaza and suggested Bingz instead.
Parting ways, I noted nothing of interest within the plaza and suggested Bingz instead.
We agreed on The Signature Beef, along with my suggestion of a Plum Cold Brew. The deviation from a 2L bottle of hotpot-ready 酸梅湯 wasn't vast: beyond a more filtered appearance, greater dose of sweetness, and thinner consistency, the sweet-tanginess paired just as splendidly with tender chunks of beef as it did with soy sauce-dipped shabu shabu strips.
The Crispy Burger was an item of instant affection for the sleepy polar bear. From the flaky, crunchy exterior to the "brisket-like" stands of marinated meat, I saw no hesitation whatsoever in swiftly obtaining a second piece for sheer satisfaction.
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We then proceeded to trek towards Oomomo, steering ourselves towards the old Cineplex location.
Although I had ventured into the parking-scarce plaza countless times in the past ten years, never once I had acquainted myself with the establishment. We pulled open the double doors to reveal tall ceilings, marble furnishings, and an overwhelming sense of serenity.
Go Place was a hidden spa in one of the busiest districts of Markham.
Although I had ventured into the parking-scarce plaza countless times in the past ten years, never once I had acquainted myself with the establishment. We pulled open the double doors to reveal tall ceilings, marble furnishings, and an overwhelming sense of serenity.
Go Place was a hidden spa in one of the busiest districts of Markham.
While the sleepy polar bear began the check-in procedure, I gazed about the main floor. Couches were positioned along the perimeter, 360-degree reception area in the centre, and security gates on each side of the desk - the entry gate observed by its own security guard. The space was adorned with an aura of hotel elegance, and even more so my eyes followed the staircase towards the second floor.
IDs were verified against the booking and numbered wristbands were provided. These wristbands, as explained by the staff, were used for purposes of locker access, payment, and activity record during the stay - essentially a temporary user number. With each transaction would see the recording of our wristband numbers, such that check-out fees would be on a user number basis. The wristbands would also serve as keys to lockers of the corresponding number, nixing the need for bringing one's own locks.
IDs were verified against the booking and numbered wristbands were provided. These wristbands, as explained by the staff, were used for purposes of locker access, payment, and activity record during the stay - essentially a temporary user number. With each transaction would see the recording of our wristband numbers, such that check-out fees would be on a user number basis. The wristbands would also serve as keys to lockers of the corresponding number, nixing the need for bringing one's own locks.
Single-use "entrance cards" were bestowed upon us alongside the wristbands. Nearing the security gates, we were subject to a bag check, which forbid the shoes, food and drink, and slippers from entering the facility. I had brought along my tumbler, as always, and was directed to empty its contents by the restrooms before proceeding upstairs, for one can never be sure whether it was "water or alcohol".
The escalator would lead us to a Shoe Changing Area. An attendant stood nearby, ready to welcome guests and deliver instructions on removing their shoes before proceeding. Shoes would be slid into cubbies with numbers corresponding to our wristband. It was then that we would enter separate changerooms and re-congregate at the designated "Meet up Area". A map positioned outside of the changerooms would clarify the changeroom layout.
The escalator would lead us to a Shoe Changing Area. An attendant stood nearby, ready to welcome guests and deliver instructions on removing their shoes before proceeding. Shoes would be slid into cubbies with numbers corresponding to our wristband. It was then that we would enter separate changerooms and re-congregate at the designated "Meet up Area". A map positioned outside of the changerooms would clarify the changeroom layout.
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Individual reception desks were found within the gender-separated facilities. The ladies behind the desk would provide large towels, garments for spa use, and advise on protocols within the changeroom. Socks were to be removed; slippers could be purchased for three dollars, otherwise guests could proceed barefoot. Cell phone usage was forbidden within the changeroom, including the jacuzzi. This didn't stop some social media addicts, however. There were a total of two changerooms, four to five shower units, and three bathroom stalls; a standalone sink was positioned outside of these stalls, each housing a toilet with fully-equipped bidet system (think high-tech toilets from Japan). A toweled path would join the jacuzzi and open rinsing area and the changeroom floors - miraculously dry at any given time.
Not knowing what to expect, I donned my two-piece swimsuit layer, then my rashguard layer on top. At this point in time, it was unbeknownst to me that the only source of water entertainment would be the jacuzzis within the changeroom. A co-ed jacuzzi did not constitute Go Place's services. The gowns were worn on top, totalling three layers of tight-fitting fabric. My bags of towels, water shoes, and spare socks were stashed in the locker. I then proceeded to join the sleepy polar bear at the Meet up Area and decide our plan of action.
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The first item to catch my eye was a domed sauna. Its exterior furnishing were akin to those featured in Korean variety shows. There were a total of four, each ranging in temperature. I also spotted a gym at the far end of the activity floor. "I could have brought exercise clothes!" I wailed, grimacing at my limited assortment of clothing.
We continued to browse the assortment of rooms, then paused at an empty lounge area just long enough for me to process the scene. Beyond the pricey admission fee, I had simply not come prepared to maximize the facility's features:
We continued to browse the assortment of rooms, then paused at an empty lounge area just long enough for me to process the scene. Beyond the pricey admission fee, I had simply not come prepared to maximize the facility's features:
- A full face of makeup (and no remover, backup skincare, or makeup bag in tow) would prevent me from indulging in the detoxifying qualities of the hot rooms.
- My delayed arrival would prevent us from optimizing the duration of our stay.
- An absence of appropriate clothing would be inappropriate for massages or similar spa activities.
- Most significantly, I had expected a water park-themed venture. My mind was, quite straightforwardly, not at the pace for relaxation.
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We headed to an upstairs area to check-in for a pre-booked Oriental Foot Massage, and was then guided back downstairs to a corridor with mechanized lounge chairs. Atop each were towels for the head and body, and a sturdy neck pillow for maximum relaxation. A dim ambience, hushed environment, and inclined chair would ease us - mainly me - into a cloud of calmness. I could, at long last, feel peace amidst the internal chaos.
One of two masseuses was fluent in Cantonese and Mandarin, while the other strictly Mandarin-speaking. They began by applying a gel-like formula on our left calves; the other leg would be kept toasty underneath a brown towel while they worked on the first. Pressure needs could be relayed to them without fear. Personally, I would have preferred deeper penetration, especially about the outer calves. Toe-pulling was not to the liking of the sleepy polar bear, though not an unfamiliar sensation for me.
The option of an 15-minute Refresh & Relax add-on was proposed to us in the first half of our session. A brief, oil-less sequence on the neck, shoulders, and back would induce an additional twenty-five dollar charge. We, or rather I, eventually took up the masseuse's proposal, extending our time in the massage corridor to a full 60 minutes.
One of two masseuses was fluent in Cantonese and Mandarin, while the other strictly Mandarin-speaking. They began by applying a gel-like formula on our left calves; the other leg would be kept toasty underneath a brown towel while they worked on the first. Pressure needs could be relayed to them without fear. Personally, I would have preferred deeper penetration, especially about the outer calves. Toe-pulling was not to the liking of the sleepy polar bear, though not an unfamiliar sensation for me.
The option of an 15-minute Refresh & Relax add-on was proposed to us in the first half of our session. A brief, oil-less sequence on the neck, shoulders, and back would induce an additional twenty-five dollar charge. We, or rather I, eventually took up the masseuse's proposal, extending our time in the massage corridor to a full 60 minutes.
Curiosity would fill our heads as we ventured back onto the floor. A robot server would be chased down the hallway in the direction of the Dining Area. Its AI capabilities enabled it to dodge me as I drew close, and also gaze in the direction of nearby guests. It was quite amusing, I must declare.
Food was foregoed until the hot rooms had been experienced. I proposed the Agate Room first, for it was the coolest amongst the four at 58 degrees Celsius. Phones were not permitted within, reasonably so, and could instead be secured in cubbies outside. As with changeroom lockers, the numbered wristband was used to register access, then unlock the cubbie later upon room exit.
The Agate Room was found to be quite scorching upon first stepping in. The floor was a grey marble, covered with bamboo mats; the walls were presumably insulated, seemingly cement and finished with colourful, multi-coloured stones. Depressions within the room walls, alternatively referred to as "niches", held decorative elements. An opening reminiscent of wooden panels revealed the source of the heat, an area I dodged in fear of melting makeup. I joined the sleepy polar bear on the mat for roughly two minutes, peeled away my mask for better breathability, then surrendered. Droplets of perspiration had begun to form on the inside of my mask, around my nose.
Food was foregoed until the hot rooms had been experienced. I proposed the Agate Room first, for it was the coolest amongst the four at 58 degrees Celsius. Phones were not permitted within, reasonably so, and could instead be secured in cubbies outside. As with changeroom lockers, the numbered wristband was used to register access, then unlock the cubbie later upon room exit.
The Agate Room was found to be quite scorching upon first stepping in. The floor was a grey marble, covered with bamboo mats; the walls were presumably insulated, seemingly cement and finished with colourful, multi-coloured stones. Depressions within the room walls, alternatively referred to as "niches", held decorative elements. An opening reminiscent of wooden panels revealed the source of the heat, an area I dodged in fear of melting makeup. I joined the sleepy polar bear on the mat for roughly two minutes, peeled away my mask for better breathability, then surrendered. Droplets of perspiration had begun to form on the inside of my mask, around my nose.
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The Salt Room was up next. Though merely a few degrees hotter than Agate, the difference was uncanny. Even the door handle was too warm to touch with bare hands, thus demanding the assistance of a towel. Similar in its internal layout, the walls adopted a brick finish rather than slippery stones. It was undeniably hotter, yet, interestingly, allowed me to feel more at ease than the last. I could lay down on the mats and rest my head of the square pillow comfortably. Perhaps it was the illusion of serenity, given that Agate has allowed our bodies to recover from the initial heat shock. Nevertheless, I labelled it as the favourite before sitting back up to exit (and preserve my makeup).
The Jade Room was third hottest on the floor. Truthfully, it was a tad stifling overall. I had taken a few steps into the room and remained standing for a brief moment. Then, I recalled that "hot air rises, cool air falls". Situating myself onto the floor indeed proved much more bearable. That said, my tolerance waned as we navigated between the rooms.
Finally, we entered the Volcanic Rock Room. With a base of wood panels, an open heat source, and general dimness, it boasted likeness to the typical pool sauna. Less than one minute passed before we gathered our towels and re-entered the floor.
The Jade Room was third hottest on the floor. Truthfully, it was a tad stifling overall. I had taken a few steps into the room and remained standing for a brief moment. Then, I recalled that "hot air rises, cool air falls". Situating myself onto the floor indeed proved much more bearable. That said, my tolerance waned as we navigated between the rooms.
Finally, we entered the Volcanic Rock Room. With a base of wood panels, an open heat source, and general dimness, it boasted likeness to the typical pool sauna. Less than one minute passed before we gathered our towels and re-entered the floor.
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Instead of shocking the soul by immediately attempting the Ice Room, we ventured to the Dining Area once more. I had spotted bubble tea being enjoyed by other customers while trekking about, and had been curious about the spa's in-house selection. After stopping briefly at the bathroom, which, may I add, had the most intricate faucet and knob fixtures, we were greeted by a member of staff. She gestured towards an iPad listing the menu offerings, which we scrolled through inquisitively.
Yearnings for M Cha Bar's Roasted Oolong Tea with Coffee Jelly had led me to the Bubble Tea section. However, with only basic choices of fruit smoothies and milk tea with grass jelly, I opted to satisfy such cravings at later point in the day. Drink prices were on par with that of typical restaurant facilities - and probably more economic than the likes of most bubble tea franchises! The fruit platters, in contrast, were priced at alarmingly steep rates. I was less than keen to invest $38 for a fruit platter I could construct myself in under twenty minutes.
The sleepy polar bear was responsive to my wishes. We returned to the floor, where one of us darted towards a vacant spot the Far Infrared Area (not me). More intrigued at the Amethyst Room, I found comfort in the zen atmosphere, laid down, and re-connected to the digital world. The setting contained just enough infrared rays to evoke peace, but kept vision irritation to a minimum.
Yearnings for M Cha Bar's Roasted Oolong Tea with Coffee Jelly had led me to the Bubble Tea section. However, with only basic choices of fruit smoothies and milk tea with grass jelly, I opted to satisfy such cravings at later point in the day. Drink prices were on par with that of typical restaurant facilities - and probably more economic than the likes of most bubble tea franchises! The fruit platters, in contrast, were priced at alarmingly steep rates. I was less than keen to invest $38 for a fruit platter I could construct myself in under twenty minutes.
The sleepy polar bear was responsive to my wishes. We returned to the floor, where one of us darted towards a vacant spot the Far Infrared Area (not me). More intrigued at the Amethyst Room, I found comfort in the zen atmosphere, laid down, and re-connected to the digital world. The setting contained just enough infrared rays to evoke peace, but kept vision irritation to a minimum.
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About fifteen minutes of uninterrupted assuagement passed, with the sleepy polar bear joining me around the five-minute mark. We attempted to keep our conversations to a whisper, as to respect the posted signage. This grew increasingly difficult while contemplating supper ideas, and we exited shortly afterwards for the Ice Room.
Maintained at 5 degrees Celsius, the rectangular room wasn't a grand departure from our typical winter-spring transitions. It was pecular that the room hadn't adopted the same spherical shape as the saunas, for the interior was unmistakably igloo-like in furnishing. The sleepy polar bear urged our departure within seconds, for I was the only one of us two to be sporting three layers of fabric.
In the Entertainment Area were board games for rental, though we opted to rest by the central pillar instead. The dragon carving and chandelier was mighty impressive, I shall declare.
Maintained at 5 degrees Celsius, the rectangular room wasn't a grand departure from our typical winter-spring transitions. It was pecular that the room hadn't adopted the same spherical shape as the saunas, for the interior was unmistakably igloo-like in furnishing. The sleepy polar bear urged our departure within seconds, for I was the only one of us two to be sporting three layers of fabric.
In the Entertainment Area were board games for rental, though we opted to rest by the central pillar instead. The dragon carving and chandelier was mighty impressive, I shall declare.
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After agreeing to attempt our respective jacuzzis before meeting outside again, I returned to my locker. The gown was shed and phone safely stashed out of water's reach. The jacuzzi, or officially known as the Bath House, was separated into two portions: one illuminated with turquoise, and the other a royal blue. The turquoise side featured pods with water jets beneath the surface, while the blue at a slightly warmer temperature and jets positioned above ground level. I had found an empty spot in the blue side when several European ladies requested to turn on the jets. Barely avoiding their splashes, I proceeded to the turquoise side, yet got splashed nonetheless.
Beside the Bath House were a series of open shower facilities, a rinsing station of sorts. Adjacent was a metal-finish contraption and trolley with cups, toothbrush, and mouthwash. Upon closer inspection, the contraption was a water extractor for swimsuits - an attractive installation enabling guests to return with semi-dried gear. Reception staff also wouldn't hesitate to provide plastic bags for swimsuit storage, as to not dampen one's bag en route home.
Beside the Bath House were a series of open shower facilities, a rinsing station of sorts. Adjacent was a metal-finish contraption and trolley with cups, toothbrush, and mouthwash. Upon closer inspection, the contraption was a water extractor for swimsuits - an attractive installation enabling guests to return with semi-dried gear. Reception staff also wouldn't hesitate to provide plastic bags for swimsuit storage, as to not dampen one's bag en route home.
After obtaining a large towel from the reception desk, I proceeded to the shower area. The units were tall and spacious, though devoid of hooks; in addition, the curtains were quite short for my liking, exposing majority of my legs to those traversing by. The gowns, as I learned afterwards, could be taken home. Into a nifty turquoise paper bag it would go.
The sleepy polar bear was found waiting outside. We laced up our shoes once more before descending down the stairs - this time manually, for there was no escalator in the outbound direction. Rose tea, citrus-infused water, and chalky almond biscuits were sampled in the lobby. One final visit to the unisex bathrooms, and we would return the wristbands to the front desk.
Bills were calculated at this point, separated by wristband number. A single-use entry card would permit egress onto the concrete walkway of First Markham Place again.
The sleepy polar bear was found waiting outside. We laced up our shoes once more before descending down the stairs - this time manually, for there was no escalator in the outbound direction. Rose tea, citrus-infused water, and chalky almond biscuits were sampled in the lobby. One final visit to the unisex bathrooms, and we would return the wristbands to the front desk.
Bills were calculated at this point, separated by wristband number. A single-use entry card would permit egress onto the concrete walkway of First Markham Place again.
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In spite of my initial reluctance towards the event, my mood undoubtedly improved over the course of the visit. Adjusting one's pace for relaxation was one element; taking advantage of Go Place's various services while maintaining one's appearance was another factor for consideration. Should I have the luxury to partake in such an upscale spa experience again, I would advise on visiting the jacuzzi first. The saunas ought follow, then a massage. These steps would promote circulation in advance of any treatments, further their effectiveness. Needless to say, I'd recommending keeping a complexion clear of cosmetics, and bring a makeup bag if necessary. Q-tips, dyson hair dryers, and a limited selection of L'Occitane products are available for use; brushes and specialty skincare should, naturally, be brought for one's use.
Go Place is a pristine, upscale relaxation facility with attentive service, and the price point was definitely reflective of these details. Spa treatments are a rarity in my life, and I could not have treasured the experience more. Even though uncharacteristic of my default programming, the consideration for my overall wellbeing had been executed in good faith. I merely needed to slow down and think rationally/optimistically.
Go Place is a pristine, upscale relaxation facility with attentive service, and the price point was definitely reflective of these details. Spa treatments are a rarity in my life, and I could not have treasured the experience more. Even though uncharacteristic of my default programming, the consideration for my overall wellbeing had been executed in good faith. I merely needed to slow down and think rationally/optimistically.
Bags were returned to the car before further exploration for food ensued.
Large cups of Passion Fruit Ginger Red Date Tea (百香果薑棗茶) and Tapioca and Cooked Taro w/ Coconut Milk (椰汁香芋西米露) were obtained from Tracy Dessert, who has since shifted their old opening hours to 4 PM or 5 PM from their original 12 PM on weekends and 2 PM on weekdays.
The former was refreshing but spicy, coating my throat with the anti-inflammatory essence I've grown to love so dearly. Creamy was the latter, with chewy bits of sago and substantial chunks of taro. Neither was particularly sugary either.
Large cups of Passion Fruit Ginger Red Date Tea (百香果薑棗茶) and Tapioca and Cooked Taro w/ Coconut Milk (椰汁香芋西米露) were obtained from Tracy Dessert, who has since shifted their old opening hours to 4 PM or 5 PM from their original 12 PM on weekends and 2 PM on weekdays.
The former was refreshing but spicy, coating my throat with the anti-inflammatory essence I've grown to love so dearly. Creamy was the latter, with chewy bits of sago and substantial chunks of taro. Neither was particularly sugary either.
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A Salted Egg Yolk Egg Waffle (流心鹹蛋黃) was then acquired at Eggette Hut. Both of us were extremely pleased with this pick, for it was crisp to touch and balanced in flavour, neither excessively sweet, salty, nor satiating (like their Cheese Explosion). The $5.75 snack could be likened to the dim sum favourite of lava custard buns (流沙包), but in an egg waffle format! Suffice to say, we were delighted.
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My impromptu proposal of watching Minions: The Rise of Gru at the Downtown Markham Cineplex had been received fondly:
"Anything you want!"
"Anything you want!"
Given the tight timeline, supper adopted the form of Poke Guys. A large Cali bowl and Spam Musubi with Creamy Togarashi sauce was devoured rapidly between us.
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Given the tight timeline, supper adopted the form of Poke Guys. A large Cali bowl and Spam Musubi with Creamy Togarashi sauce was devoured rapidly between us.
My recollection of the original downtown Yonge outpost is vague, though I do not recall the large bowl ringing in at a mind-boggling nineteen. It was delicious, I must say, and fulfilled our respective needs for kale (me, of course), and rice. Adding both Wasabi Mayo and Miso Sesame sauces proved a tad too saucy for my liking, though.
My recollection of the original downtown Yonge outpost is vague, though I do not recall the large bowl ringing in at a mind-boggling nineteen. It was delicious, I must say, and fulfilled our respective needs for kale (me, of course), and rice. Adding both Wasabi Mayo and Miso Sesame sauces proved a tad too saucy for my liking, though.
The greatest degree of enjoyment was found in the Spam Musubi, which combined warm grains of shiny rice with torched Spam.
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Naturally, I couldn't resist requesting Mark's imysm upon observing their openness to song requests. The staff were all exceptionally friendly (and speedy!) as well.
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We then made haste, rapidly parking in the underground garage and bolting upstairs towards Cineplex. With only five minutes left until the movie start time, seats sold out for the most part. When the kiosk served us second-row seats on the far left, we conclusively agreed to defer the experience, for it would no longer be enjoyable at that distance (or lack thereof).
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Instead, the sleepy polar bear was given a rundown of Downtown Markham, most notably the Pride of Canada Carousel. Ticket prices have seen a markup of 50%: single tickets were now $3 instead of $2. A pair of tickets would ring in at five dollars though, reducing the markup to 25%.
"This is getting me in the mood for Wonderland!" I heard over my mallard.
The skies transitioned from a brilliant azure to streaked ultramarine, its gorgeousness reflected before us.
Codenames eased us into the evening, until the eventual restoration of the Rogers network. My first birthday surprise with the sleepy polar bear had come to a close. It had been imperfectly perfect, a feeling of purely being cared for, being loved.
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