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My Take on The Explorer at 27Shaw Spa

It’s not my first time trying The Explorer at 27Shaw Spa. I went again last Sunday, and here’s my honest take:

The therapist: His name starts with E. The receptionist said he’s one of their most requested therapists, and I can see why—he definitely has the looks. However, one thing I noticed was his breath. Maybe he hadn’t eaten or had dinner yet, but it was noticeable. With his looks, he could’ve been a total package if not for that.

The massage: Nothing really surprised me since I’ve already tried The Explorer before. The routine felt repetitive, especially the ritual with my tool, and honestly, it became a bit boring and tiring. I felt like I wasted another ₱1,500. Still, I appreciate that he provided the massage, especially since he may not be into anything sensual. Maybe he also sensed that I’m a pretty masculine guy.

His enthusiasm: He seemed to lack enthusiasm, although, to be fair, I understand that this is part of his job. Maybe if he had a choice, he wouldn’t be doing that kind of work in the first place.
The dry humping: Personally, I didn’t feel anything from it, and I’m not really a fan of it anyway. I also didn’t expect much since I know he’s straight.

The hand massage: There were a few moments when he placed my hand near his crotch. I chose not to take advantage of the situation because, again, I wasn’t sure if it was part of the service or simply part of the experience I booked.

Ending the session: I finished earlier than expected, so I still had around 20 minutes left. He assumed I wanted to take a nap and stay in the room, saying he would wake me up after I rested. I understood, though—baka pagod na rin siya, especially since my schedule was at 12:30 AM. Still, I felt like he could have stayed a little longer to maximize the remaining time.

Overall: I’d still come back to 27Shaw and try their other branches, but probably not The Explorer again. I might try The Everyman instead, especially since I prefer something that really focuses on deep-tissue massage and stronger pressure.

Bastusan sa Club Bath

Though I understand that their closing is at 1:00 AM (Manila time), ano ba naman yung 12:45 AM, the members still have 15 minutes to maximize the space.

1st - Understand that they have to open the lights at some part of the space for them to start cleaning and to subtly remind everyone na "uy guys, pa- close na kami"

2nd - they "Opened" the smoking / terrrace side of the establishment wherein guys were still in the "cruising moment" and even used a flashlight and rudely said "Closing na po.." TF! Completely an invasion of privacy

3rd - there's a bantay sa locker area (which I understand na he's in the look out for using of mobile phones) but in some Spa, yes there's a bantay but not in the premise of locker side na naka titig sayo all the wah while you undress and dress after your visit - this made me feel unsafe!

Does any of you have observed the numbers 1 to 3?

Though I understand that their closing is at 1:00 AM but you cannot reinforce the members to leave the premises in it's still 15 mins before the closing — cleaning the premises should should happen 1:00 AM onwards.
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DM me your TG

Facade:

With the newest (third) branch located in Poblacion, Makati, the “B” logo adorned with florals is highly eye-catching and visually appealing to passersby—especially those already familiar with the brand.

Recommendation:

Given that the area is well known for bars and hotels within Makati’s CBD, it would be beneficial to have a staff member stationed outside to initially engage and assess incoming guests. This approach can help ensure that visitors clearly understand the nature of the establishment and align with its target market, as the venue may otherwise be mistaken for a bar or even a low-rise hotel.

Entrance and Reception Layout:

Upon entering the establishment, the reception area is located on the left side, though the space is notably narrow. Adjacent to it on the right is the area designated for robe and towel distribution. It was also observed that there are no available benches or seating options for guests who may need to wait for assistance, which could impact overall comfort and guest experience.

Guest Assistance and Amenities:

The ushers were notably accommodating and attentive, contributing positively to the overall guest experience. It was also observed that the slippers provided are relatively new, having only been introduced recently. However, as they are offered in a single free size, they may not comfortably accommodate all guests. For instance, individuals with larger foot sizes (my size is 11) may find the fit inadequate, which could affect comfort during their visit.

The locker area is generally spacious; however, capacity may become limited for guests carrying larger personal items. In my case, I had to leave my bag at the reception as I came directly from work. While the locker compartments may technically fit bigger bags, space can feel cramped when accommodating essential items such as robes, towels, and shoes alongside personal belongings, which may affect overall convenience.

Vanity and Restroom Area:

Adjacent to the locker area is the vanity section, which is well-equipped with mirrors across most corners, enhancing its overall functionality and visual appeal. However, it was noted that there are only two toilet bowls located on the left side of the area. Maintaining a high standard of cleanliness in this shared space is essential, as any lapse could significantly impact the usability and overall experience of the vanity section.
 
Vanity Area Engagement:

It was also observed that some guests were taking selfies within the vanity area, likely due to it being a newer design feature introduced in the latest branches. This highlights its visual appeal and indicates strong potential as an organic promotional touchpoint, as guests are encouraged to share their experience on social media—supporting brand visibility and engagement.

Main Facilities Overview:

Beyond the entrance, guests are led to the main areas, which include the pool, steam room, labyrinth (combined), and sauna.

Pool:

The pool is relatively smaller compared to the other two branches. However, its size creates a more intimate setting, which may appeal to guests looking for a quieter and more relaxing experience. To further enhance this, it is recommended to adjust the lighting to a dimmer level to create a calmer and more refreshing ambiance.

Shower Stalls:

The shower stalls are enclosed and feature a design patterned after French windows. While locks are provided for added privacy, silhouettes of individuals inside can still be visible due to the design. Although the locking feature is optional and depends on the guest’s preference, this setup may still raise privacy considerations.

Sauna:

The sauna is comparable in size and overall setup to those in the T and Shaw branches, with no significant new features or enhancements noted.

Steam Room and Labyrinth:

The combined steam room and labyrinth area is notably spacious and has been regarded as one of the largest among Men-Exclusive Spa branches. While this is a strong feature of the location, it is suggested to consider separating the labyrinth from the steam room. This distinction was a unique aspect of the T branch and contributed to a more varied and differentiated guest experience compared to the Shaw branch.

Wet Area Stay and Service Pricing:

I did not spend much time in the wet area, as I was primarily looking forward to the service I availed, particularly the Everyman. It was also noted that there has been an increase in rates compared to previous visits, which may be worth reviewing in terms of overall value perception for returning guests.

Second Floor Lounge Experience:

The establishment spans four floors, with the second floor dedicated to a relaxation lounge where guests can enjoy complimentary refreshments such as Blue Lemonade, Moringa tea, and chocolate chip cookies. The space effectively brings together various design elements, creating a cohesive yet distinctly maximalist aesthetic—evident in the mix of chairs, wallpapers, and decorative accents.

Despite the visually rich design, the area remains comfortable and conducive to relaxation. In fact, the lounge provides a restful environment, as I nearly fell asleep on the sofa after my massage.

Upper Floors Experience (3rd & 4th Levels):

The third floor houses the massage rooms, providing a dedicated and quiet space for core service delivery.

The fourth floor features a bar area, creatively named BARe, which includes a mini bar setup and an adjoining open-air section. This outdoor space incorporates nipa hut–inspired seating, adding a local and distinctive design element. Some of the seating pieces are limited in number and may benefit from further expansion to accommodate more guests comfortably.

The open-air concept provides a unique opportunity to elevate the overall guest experience, particularly as a social and relaxation space.

Recommendation:

It may be worth enhancing the fourth floor by positioning it as a more refined lounge area, possibly through dimmer ambient lighting and a more cohesive seating layout. Strengthening its identity as a premium relaxation and social space could further differentiate the Makati branch and provide guests with a memorable, elevated experience aligned with the brand.

Massage Service Experience:

Everyman

The massage was truly exceptional—especially as this was my first time availing Everyman, and it definitely did not disappoint.

From the warm-up to the actual massage, everything was top-notch.

The therapist was highly professional. I particularly appreciated how he regularly checked if the pressure was just right, since I requested a moderate level. That attention to detail and consideration made the experience even better.
I also valued how he maintained a quiet and respectful atmosphere throughout the session, allowing me to fully relax while he focused on his work. It really showed his professionalism and respect for privacy.

During the service, I found myself fully immersed in the experience—to the point of momentarily forgetting that I was inside B. The overall quality of the massage was exceptional.

The therapist demonstrated a high level of professionalism, maintaining a calm and composed demeanor throughout. There was no sense of rushing; each part of the service was delivered with care and attentiveness. His technique was precise and respectful, with clear attention to maintaining appropriate boundaries at all times.

Overall, the therapist’s professionalism and skill stood out, reflecting strong training and experience—likely from a reputable background.

This level of service significantly contributed to a positive and memorable experience.

Recognition of Service Excellence:

Should it be appropriate, I would be happy to share the therapist’s name privately, as I believe his craftsmanship and professionalism truly deserve recognition. It would be well-deserved for him to be acknowledged for the quality of service he delivers.

I would happy to know if you have reach this point of reading, kindly provide your comments down below or send a note so I could share my experiences with T, B and 27Shaw.

Thank you for reading!

Called to check avail massage sa IS, LP Branch, ayaw i-disclose ang receptionist ang mga props to be used for the Artemis? Has anyone tried? Ano po ang mga props nila? TY

Disclaimer: Long read

I’ve always held this massage place in high regard because their deep tissue service really suits my body’s needs. On top of that, they gave me a loyalty card — a perk I appreciate and a reason to keep coming back.

I returned because the deep tissue massage was excellent, exactly what I need to reset before starting a new work week. From their advertising — highlighting their facilities, services, and even a promo of a free one-hour massage if you bring two people — you get the impression that they are very customer-focused.

During my recent visit, however, things took an unexpected turn. When the therapist asked me to flip over to continue the routine on my front, I felt him deliberately caressing my private area, which led to a slight arousal. He then removed the eye cover and whispered if I wanted “release.” I knew this wasn’t part of the service I booked, so out of curiosity I asked if he was offering an “extra service.” He confirmed, but I declined, telling him it wasn’t my intention and I didn’t have the budget. I mentioned I’d only give a tip of 100 pesos. He then suggested that next time I return, I should ask for him by name to avail of his extra service.

This was disappointing. It seems management hasn’t firmly instructed their therapists not to offer such services, or perhaps this is simply the behavior of certain therapist. Comparing this to my first visit, the deep tissue massage was professional, satisfying, and without any inappropriate offers.

1. I won’t name the therapist because I don’t want him to lose his job, though I can’t deny feeling saddened that a place I thought was a hidden gem would allow this kind of practice.

2. There are no signs inside the massage rooms prohibiting indecent proposals or extra services.

3. I didn’t expect a zen-inspired massage parlor to be associated with such offers.

Will I come back? Possibly — but only for the deep tissue massage, and definitely not with the same therapist. I’d prefer the one I had during my first visit.

Will I recommend it to others? No.

I know they’re new to the business, and I don’t want to ruin their reputation. But if this happens again, I’ll have no choice but to call them out.

They currently have branches in Alabang, Baclaran, Parañaque, and Tagaytay. Their logo is green, featuring two hands with stones, and their name is derived from a Japanese word meaning “nature,” “natural,” or “spontaneous.”

DM me, I could whisper the name of the massage parlor.

Thank you for reading.

Not sure if it has been a viral na but the chocolate variant is SOOOO DAMN GOOD for only 55 pesos, AS IN!! Checked Tiktok after devouring kasi sabi ko for sure meron ng nagpost nito sa sobrang sulit, there were few posts na nga and we all share the same sentiments.. Will try matcha naman the next time I visit..

Comment kayo if you have tried.. Promise, it will not disappoint..

Price: Too expensive with its time of 60 mins
Verdict: Not recommended, waste of money, spend your time sa wet area or touch yourself for you to release

Recommendation:

👎👎👎👎👎

(The Explorer by 27Shaw is still the top notch)

Sino nasa Urus last night who witnessed the live action of a hot spanish guy and a pinoy twink?

Was there last night, around 1:30 AM, noticed that they already turned off the machine/ motor sa steam area which doesn't create heat anymore, ako lang ba ito pero ANG LANSA ng amoy pag turned off na ang motor, smells like may hinasangan na isda, like TF!

Been to 27Shaw a few times, curious naman ako sa T in Timog..

DM me your TG, possible for meet ups