Sir, – I enjoyed reading about Diana Gleadhill's "spa" experience in Tbilisi (An Irishwoman's Diary, July 16th). I have, in my time, endured similar trials in far-flung places. Some kind Chinese business partners consider it part of their responsibility, as hosts, to treat their guests to a bracing post-banquet massage; from both sides, bosses, underlings, translators are all lined up democratically in white towelling gowns for some "rest" after what may have been a 12-hour day of negotiations. A bit like Diana, I always seemed to merit the attention of the fiercest (male) practitioner, while male colleagues enjoyed, by my side, more tender ministrations of the fairer sex, all above board, naturellement.
I hate to quibble with Diana’s opening paragraph but I wish to point out, as a fellow Aquarian, that Aquarius is in fact an air sign, in spite of the image of the water bearer. Like Diana, it’s air I needed after those sessions. – Yours, etc,
LOUISE TOBIN,
Featherbed Lane,
Kinsale, Co Cork.