Thailand Guides - Massage

Thai massage is an indulgence every visitor must experience at least once. Traditional massage is an integral part of Thai culture. It was introduced in India by the personal physician of the Buddha over 2,500 years ago, which makes Thai massage one of the world's oldest medical therapies. Anyone who has experienced it will affirm its relaxing and therapeutic effects.

Nowadays, it is almost unusual for any travelers who come to Thailand to leave the country without having a Thai massage. It goes without saying that this age-old therapy becomes a must-do part of holiday activities. The good news is you can find a place to try this traditional remedy at virtually every tourist spots. Varying in quality and authenticity, the place where you can have a Thai massage can range from a white-sandy beach to the rooftop of a five-star hotel.

Reduce Tension

A full course of classical Thai massage typically lasts two hours or more. The procedure involves pulling fingers, toes and ears, cracking the knuckles, walking on the taker's back and arching the taker's back in a rolling action.The aim is to encourage an even and harmonious flow of physical energy. Whichever one you go for, try not to fight the masseuse. Massage techniques vary – people who like rigorous workouts will get exactly that in Bangkok, while northern techniques are substantially gentler. If you think your body cannot take such a vigorous treatment, you can opt for a lighter version. There are several types of Thai massage that are less intensive and more relaxing. Many massage places and spas can customize the procedure to suit your physique. It is worth telling your therapist about your physical limitations before taking a massage. Thai massage may not be for everyone, but most people walk out far less tense than when they went in.

Finding a massage place

Most massage places in Bangkok centre around popular tourist areas such as Silom, Siam Square, Kaosarn Road and along the Sukhumvit road. Every spa in the capital includes at least one Thai massage course in their menu. You can even find a small massage parlour in the shopping malls. This is also the case in Chiangmai. The northern tourist capital, which is famed for its unique style of massage, has its main roads flanked with numerous massage places from Night Bazaar to Changklan Road. You can even get a massage in a temple compound. This does not include individual spas and hotel spas scattering the entire province. However, if your ideal ambience for a massage includes the sound of sea waves and soft fine sand, Phuket, Krabi, Pattaya and Hua Hin could be your ideal destinations. Many local masseurs in beachside cities set up a tent by the beach offering different body pampering treatments from foot massage to manicure. Generally, a 2-hour Thai body massage at a local massage place can cost you from 12 dollars to 22 dollars. The rates here are negotiable and relatively cheaper than the spas or massage parlours.