Part 2: Saturday in Bed with Strawberries and Champagne

I called the desk and found my companions had gone out but would be returning. I ordered lunch in my room and had a long soak in the bath. A little later there was a knock on the door and a new waiter pushed a trolley in. Although wrapped in one of the hotels gigantic dressing gowns, he wouldn’t look in my direction and practicallly bolted as soon as I scribbled the room number on his book.

That afternoon, the guys still didn’t return but I had a phone call to say they were playing golf. They had bumped into a golfing buddy who had booked into one of the really top-notch golf courses and as his golfing partner had been called away, he had invited them to join him that afternoon. As it was a late slot, they were staying for dinner and would not be returning the hotel late the folllowing evening

They were most apologetic but said the room was mine until Sunday lunchtime and I could book meals for the room or go to the restaurant in the meantime. I was strangely unperturbed by the situation and called the desk to verify that I was not going to be landed with a huge bill. The man who replied was immensely helpful and confirmed that the room was booked on a corporate account and I was permitted any meals and refreshments I wished together with all the facilities the hotel had to offer. As I was talking, I saw a brochure next to the phone for massage sessions at the hotel’s fitness centre or in your own room. I was asked if I particularly wanted a masseuse and I said that wasnt necessary. I also ordered a strawberries and a bottle of champagne although I selected a lower price bottle.