Massages and Day Spas in Thailand

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A New Genre of Tourism in Thailand

Thailand has been quick to cash in on the spa craze sweeping most parts of the world.  Till just a few years ago, not too many people could claim to have visited a spa or even have a full understanding of what the spa experience included.  Today, however, women and men from Kiev to Kansas City are joining the ever lengthening waiting lists for a full-on pampering spa experience.  The spas of Thailand have developed a reputation for offering some of the most rejuvenating experiences in the world, and deservedly so. Not only does the country have a wealth of medicinal flora and natural mineral water springs, but it is also home to many healing arts like traditional massages and other stress alleviation techniques.  All these along with the beautiful landscape, warm sunny weather, and a reputation of friendly service have helped Thai spa culture flourish.  

Massages

Most spas worldwide have included the traditional Thai massage as part of their repertoire, but the best place to try this invigorating massage is in the country of its birth.  A Thai massage is invigorating more than relaxing in nature, and the whole point of the exercise is to relieve stresses and aches so the individual can feel healed and “new.”  Gentle but firm pressure is applied on common pressure points while the body is stretched using the principles of Yoga.  Contrary to popular belief, there’s nothing sleazy about the whole massage and the recipient is clothed in loose robes supplied by the massage center.  Wat Pho in Bangkok is a great place to be initiated into the pleasures of a Thai massage.  This temple has, over the centuries, been the focal learning center for Thai massage techniques.  It even houses a number of ancient stone statues demonstrating massage postures.  Besides Wat Pho, you can try a Thai massage at any of the hundreds of spas and resorts across Thailand.  

Day Spas and Herbal Spas

A day spa could be defined as a spa facility that offers all normal services except accommodation.  In other words, you check in at an appointed hour, get massaged and pampered, and then skip off home –or back to the hotel.  Herbal steam baths, long recognized for their healing powers by Thai medicinal authorities, are designed to improve circulation and ease allergies and skin conditions.  A customized mixture of herbs is soaked in hot water and the resulting fragrant steam is allowed to permeate the body through the skin and nose.  The healing properties of the hot sulphur springs of Thailand have also been well documented.  Before choosing a day spa, check if it offers facilities for cleaning up afterwards as well as hair restyling as massages and certain spa treatments can ruin a perfect coiffure.  Spas are also a great place to receive manicures, detox meals, and meditation instruction.  Each establishment will have a slightly different range of options, so be sure to research every spa before you sign up.