I recently saw Bella, the owner of Bella Gente, for a half hour massage. Bella is attractive, about 40 (but I am bad with ages), see / the implants, and gave a moderate pressure massage followed by several minutes of light, sensual massage before and after the flip. She was relaxed, chatty, and not in a hurry. She calls what she gives "rubs" and that seems an apt name. Without being asked she approached the HE in a slow and gentle manner. Bella is definitely worth seeing.
She was quite informative about her business and policies which include (1) always give the full time paid for (and she wants to be told if it is not received) and (2) never ask for or negotiate for tips. She feels most customers with give an appropriate tip when pleased with the service. At the end of our session just before walking out the door she said something to the effect of "If you would like to leave a tip on the pillow, that would be appreciated, but not required. ".
She has security cameras covering the front desk and reviews the recordings if there is a question of time being shorted. She can also confirm the number of rubs staff performs when she is not on site and confirm money received. I suggested an obvious camera on the back parking lot with a live feed at the front desk would both deter trouble makers and reassure customers and staff parking there. There are only 3 narrow parking spaces in front with plenty behind the building. The back lot is pretty well blocked from view, providing good privacy for parked cars.
Bella is planning on a web site with pictures and short bios of her staff. I suggested an updated schedule of who is working when would be well received by customers. She could also provide for reviews and private communication to her for complaints, complements, and suggestions from customers.
Bella Gente is currently open 24 hours on Thur, Fri, and Sat with some other nights when someone wants to staff it. It is nice to have an option when an escort flakes out at the last minute. I have been to a number of competitors in GR; Bella Gente and Panacea are significantly better than the others I have tried. Bella Gente is at 1212 Edith NE, off Leonard one block west of Ball. 616-432-1227. As far as I know, Bella Gente is the only spa that provides a free door fee after 5 paid visits and the only one open late night.
