One of the great traditional experiences to have while travelling in Thailand is in the vast massage industry, but there are some things you should be aware of before you embark. Many people have heard stories of special massages, or massages with happy endings in Thailand and for the most part these a widely available. This does not mean however, that every massage parlour and every girl provides this service, and it also doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy a really good traditional massage.
The traditional Thai style of massage or Thai massage is a deep massage that usually involves being bent and stretched out, not the most relaxing experience but great if you’re sore. The Thai style of massage usually focuses on the muscles of the legs, so if you prefer back massages most places will offer a straight back and shoulder massage. Thai massages are performed over your clothing; most massage places will give you loose fitting pants and sometimes a shirt to wear and other places will just massage you in what you came in with (such as massages on the beach).
Another popular style of massage in Thailand is the Oil massage. This style is more relaxing than Thai massage as your masseuse rubs oil over you while you are massaged in a more rhythmic and calming way. This style of massage usually requires you to be naked, but if you prefer you can usually keep your underwear on. Sometimes oil massages will be done in a separate room, but more likely you will be in the main room sectioned off by curtains. Most massage places will also offer foot massages. These are usually reflexology massages and can sometimes be uncomfortable or painful depending on who performs them.
Another note on those special kinds of massages. They are illegal in Thailand so massage places won’t offer them upfront. Usually, nearing the end of the massage, after the masseuse has “accidentally” stroked a little too close, they will offer you their extra services, and then you are expected to make arrangements with the girl directly. Soapy massages are ALWAYS a special massage so unless that’s the kind of massage you’re after stay away from places that specialize in those.