Phuket Massage
On any visit to Phuket, getting a massage should be on the list of things to do. Massage in Phuket is a great way to relax after a long day of diving, touring or sailing. Massage is an ancient and traditional form of healing derived from Ayurvedic medicine and a Thai massage in Phuket is incredibly inexpensive compared to the west; after an hour session you will feel relaxed and rejuvenated. It’s also an ancient Thai art, and those who associate it with naughty massage parlours will be disappointed with a regular Thai massage.
Massage shops in Phuket are found all over the island but are more concentrated in the tourist areas such as Patong and Kata. The Nai Harn area also has a large number of massage places, many of which also have saunas on site. Massage in Phuket Town is more concentrated at the larger spas. These tend to be more expensive but the cost of a massage usually includes a spa and herbal sauna as well. All of Phuket’s beaches are dotted with small beachfront massage stalls. There is something special about receiving a therapeutic Thai massage while staring out at the white sands and deep blue Andaman Sea.
A massage in Phuket usually costs about 200 baht per hour at one of the smaller, out of the way shops and can go as high as 1000 baht for the full royal treatment at one of the upmarket health spas. On the beach, expect to pay 300-350 baht an hour – there are plenty of ladies wandering up and down the beachfront offering these under the shade of the trees.
There are several different types of massage available that focus on different forms of relaxation and healing. The main types of massage in Phuket are:
Thai Massage: derived from Indian Ayurvedic and Chinese healing techniques, Thai massage aims to balance and re-align the body’s natural energies. A typical Thai massage lasts for two hours, during which the therapist will use pressure points and stretching techniques to increase energy flow along key pathways in the body to relax, rejuvenate and heal you. Although some of the stretches resemble professional wrestling holds, you will leave with a great feeling of well-being throughout your entire body.
Swedish Massage: also called oil massage, Swedish massage in Phuket is a blend of long strokes, tapping, kneading and friction to increase oxygen flow to the muscles and release toxins. The aim is to stimulate the nervous system and soothe feelings of stress using therapeutic oils. It can be a really sensual experience and is generally more sedate than a Thai massage.
Shiatsu/Acupressure: derived from Chinese and Japanese healing techniques, Shiatsu massage in Phuket uses the principles of chi-gong (quigong) to stimulate the flow of energy through the major pathways of the body.
Reflexology – foot massage: this style of massage is based on the idea that there are reflex points in the hands and feet that correspond to every point in the body. It is believed that the entire body can be affected by stimulating these points. Reflexologists use pressure, kneading and friction to promote general good health.
There are countless massage parlours spread all over Phuket Island, in all of the main areas. Older women tend to be the most skilled masseuses and places with a young, attractive staff out front usually offer more than a traditional massage. A few of the favourite massage parlours are:
Gae’s Massage and Sauna: located on Saiyuan Road, Nai Harn, this place is popular with locals and offers massages and saunas in a charmingly rustic location.
Phuket Royal Spa and Massage: is an upmarket establishment in the Sam Kong area of Phuket City. Massage services are excellent and include an herbal sauna. 367/63-64 Yaowarat Rd.
Hutavat Thai Massage: is one of the least dodgy massage parlors in Patong and has a quiet, clean and professional atmosphere. 45/12 Phrabaramee Rd.
Phuket Herbal Sauna: offers a good value for the money and is one of the better herbals saunas on the island. 2/3 moo 8, Chalong Road.
Boo’s Original Thai Massage: is one of the oldest traditional Thai massage parlors on Phuket. 78/12 Moo 3 Kamala Main Rd.
