Am I really a "boring old bastard" because I've asked for a relaxing spa day for my birthday?

[Deeperthanathousandcuts]

I have a milestone birthday coming up sharp intake of breath - my fortieth and have been asked what I would like. Rather than feign uber politeness and remark that there couldn't possibly be anything I need/want I've asked for a night away at a spa hotel and then a half day at the spa whereupon I'll be lavished with 3 hours of relaxing relaxing treatments.

The reaction to this has been startling with friends and family members calling me boring and old before my time. This is honestly my idea of heaven on earth. Other suggested alternatives have been a weekend in Amsterdam/Prague which I'm sure would be lovely but I just want a frigging spa day not a weekend stomping drunkenly around a City. Have I become boring?

I am 28 and me and my friends love a spa day. Enjoy your spa night away.

A spa day is my idea of heaven. I find grooming/being groomed superlatively relaxing. Having a massage and then staying in your bathrobe and lounging around for a bit until the next treatment... Ahhh. I know it's not for everyone, but I love it! Have an amazing time!

A spa day is my idea of hell but it's your birthday and that's what you want so you have it.

Well me personally, I would rather sit watching paint dry for 6 hours than go to a pamper day or spa. That's not a gift I would thank anyone for. I would rather have a balloon flight, a ride in a sports car, a flying lesson, a parachute jump, a paintballing day even; but not a spa day. No thanks.

boring, but then I get to go to a spa whenever I want to - it's included in my gym membership.

Oh, yes, you've got to go for a day and overnight to get the full spa benefits. Last time I went the majority of women were in their 20s!! So it's not an age thing. Spas are fab, OP, and if that's what you want to do, go for it. I think it's a great idea.

Sounds wonderful.

I'm a boring bastard. I'd choose the spa day.

Do what you want! It's your birthday not theirs

It sounds lovely and relaxing to me! it's about what you want not what friends think, they're probably secretly jealous.

My friends and I have done spa days every birthday since (and including) our thirtieths, it's not boring, it's fabulous! I'd much rather spend a day relaxing than a few hours eating and drinking too much followed by a two day headache!