Thai massage shops in Chiang Mai

In Chiang Mai, you can find plenty of massage shops liberally scattered throughout the tourist centres, advertising themselves with a large reflexology diagram outside. Some are them are very simple, consisting of a couple of mattresses on the floor, with clean linen, though this doesnt suggest the massage will be inferior. In general, older women are the most experienced and skilled at giving massage. Those that display a selection of young ladies outside are less likely to give you a proper Thai massage.

Hotels and spas offer a more luxurious environment, with nicely decorated private cubicles, scented clothing and soft music, as well as more of a guarantee that the masseuse is a good one. However, they are typically two or three times more expensive and not necessarily any better. Usually a Thai massage will cost 120 baht an hour and a foot or oil massage is 200 baht an hour in the small shops.

Although there are plenty to choose from, we have recommended a few for you. When selecting a massage shop, look out for the certificates on the wall indicating the masseuses have been properly trained. Some locals have a favourite place they regularly frequent, often due to the friendly character of the masseuse. Most masseuses are ladies. Foot massages are always offered at the walking street market on Sundays, and at other popular events.

Lek Chiaya Massage: is a well established place, centrally located, and the proprietor, Lek, has several decades experience teaching and giving deep tissue massage. 79/1 Ratchadamnoen rd, near Tapae Gate, Chiang Mai. Tel: 0-5327-8325

Baan Nit Massage: is the domain of Nit, a highly experienced and knowledgeable old lady whose methods of deep tissue and herbal massages have been passed down through many generations of Chinese healers. Soi 2, Chaiyaphum rd (near northeastern moat corner), Chiang Mai.

Vieng Ping Massage: is a small, clean, professional place with experienced masseuses, under Swiss management, slightly upmarket. Soi 2, Tapae rd, Chiang Mai (look for sign halfway down on the north side of the street).

Lets Relax: is an upmarket place near the Night Bazaar, offering a range of spa treatments, or simple massage at premium rate. Chiang Mai Pavilion, Chang Klan rd, Night Bazaar. Tel: 0-5381-8494

The Old Chiang Medicine Hospital: can be a little difficult to find but is perhaps the most professional place in the city and has a full training course with expert and very experienced massage practitioners. Located on Hang Dong road, across from the Old Chiang Mai Cultural Centre; tel: (053) 27 5085.

The Best Massage: boasts a large staff of very professional masseuses and private rooms for everyone. It’s always busy despite charging double the rate of the small outfits, but worth it. Located in car park between Porn Ping Towers hotel and Vieng Ping Night Bazaar centre. (053) 904 666.

Kavilek Spa: is a very respectable place which is popular with ex-pats because of its location in suburban western Chiang Mai. It has a large professional staff, comfortable facilities and a lovely interior, yet charges reasonable rates. Nimminhemin rd, near Amari Rincome Hotel. (053) 895 187.