Traditional Thai massage & massage parlours

Traditional Thai massage places are to be found all around Bangkok and in most towns around Thailand. Sessions lasts usually for two hours, and have nothing to do whatsoever with 'sex'. They are based on old ways of medicine. A well known center for traditional Thai massage is located at Wat Pho. Most people working in the massage places around town, will claim to have been trained at Wat Pho, but more likely they have learned it simply from their friends.

The quality of the massage varies a lot, but generally speaking it will be a pleasant experience, especially after a lot of walking or after a good exercise in the gym. It is useful to tell in advance about any problems you have, so the masseuse can avoid to much pressure on problem areas. If in doubt, avoid problems. It will be very pleasant if you are in good health, but have tired or sore legs from walking etc. But I would not recommend it as a cure for a bad back, or arthritic knees etc., especially since, as I mentioned, a lot of the people working there will not have a lot of medical knowledge.

Most places nowadays will also offer oil massage. This has nothing to do with traditional Thai massage whatsoever. Thai massage consists mainly in applying pressure to various ligaments, muscles and joints. Oil massage consists mainly of rubbing oil on the skin. (more like a massage you may get in a spa in your own country) Some girls, working in the massage shops, will try to entice you to enjoy the oil massage. A reason may be that it is priced somewhat higher and is easier to apply. However, oil massage frequently ends up in the girl arousing the (male) customer, and getting a huge tip for further services provided. Prices for oil massage around 300-400 baht per one hour session.