the diffrence between getting a foot massage or ya seven and half inches.
Thai massage has a world-wide reputation for relaxation and therapeutic values, but this reputation has been tainted by the common reference and association with the ‘Happy Ending’, where the client can receive sexual satisfaction in addition (sometimes replacing) the standard therapeutic massage.
Whilst this may be an essential part of the service for some, many of us are just looking for a truly relaxing, deeply satisfy experience, helping to cleanse the mind and the body. There are hundreds of massage shop’s on the island, it is hard to tell from the type of service that you will receive.
On top of this is the quality of the massage and the accompanying ambience. Many small shops have the beds close together in the same room, with the masseuses chatting away the whole time, making it extremely hard to get the most of your experience.
Much of this is associated with the price that we pay, after all you get what you pay for! With that in mind, consider trying out a few of the islands day spas or even a resort spa, that make their living by offering a little more than a quick physical pick me up.
Here are some of the better known spas on the island…
Rain Tree Spa
Located in Phuket Town, the Rain Tree Spa is a medium sized spa with a very cool and pleasant atmosphere. They offer a good service including massage, body scrub and body wrap but do not have bathing facilities and they do not have personal steam rooms, so you may have to share with others!
Cheraim spa
Is a large day spa easily found being situated opposite Central Festival, very close to Phuket Town. They offer a wide range of treatments, and if you are looking for something a little different, they offer a hot stone treatment, for those feeling a little more adventurous.
Body@mind
A little cheaper than the taxis (but not much!) these are good for short trips, as they can get uncomfortable over longer distances. Again, haggling is possible.
Banyan Tree Spa
If you’re not worried about emptying your wallet, then you may consider the famous world class Banyan Tree Spa, which full service at the highest of standards. They have won many awards, and if price is not a concern, then this could be your chance to experience the height of luxury and relaxation rolled into one.
Mandara Spa at JW Marriott
An extremely elegant resort spa where all of the rooms are exquisitely presented, and the products (oils, soaps, etc.) used throughout are well known brands of top quality. The service charges are higher than usual but the staff as well trained. However, if you’re located in the southern half of the island, prepare for a trek, as it’s situated in the northern part of Phuket Island, approximately 40km away from Phuket Town.
Sukko Spa
One of the larger day spas on the island, Sukko Spa offers a unique experience as it is like entering a Thailand of old, as the way the staff dress and the way buildings are decorated with Thai art and artifacts lends to the atmosphere is that of ancient Thai culture. This is the one place to find the complete range of services available at the highest of quality. Offering a variety of rooms, you can choose a completely personal experience and use the isolated Spa Villas, or use the popular pavilion where you can use the steam/Jacuzzi rooms.
Six Senses Spa at Evason
Another well known resort spa, Six Senses Spa at Evason is situated on top of a hill offering beautiful views of the eastern side of Phuket. With a mix of both Thai and international staff, you can be guaranteed to have your whims catered for and the prices are similar to other resort spas found on the island.
Check first
If you’re planning your day around being pampered and are willing to spend a little more, remember to do your homework first, to make sure that you don’t have a wasted trip and your day. Check the spa’s website out, check the prices and make sure they offer the services that you’re looking for. Also, do a Google search on the name of the spa and see if you can find reviews by previous visitors, this is going to be your best indication of what you’re really going to get!
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