In Pursuit of Bliss: Exploring Thai Massages in South Korea

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The Art of Massage– in General

When giving a massage, it is beneficial to start with gentle strokes in specific areas to soothe and relax your partner. Incorporating firmer and stronger techniques will further enhance relaxation as the massage progresses. However, preventing the skin from becoming dry during the massage is crucial, as this diminishes its soothing effects. To maintain a pleasant experience, always use a hydrating massage oil that moisturizes the skin for you and your partner to enjoy. However, Thai massages are a little different. They involve a combination of stretching, acupressure, and rhythmic compressions, providing a unique therapeutic experience for the recipient.

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“What exactly is a Thai massage?” is a question that lingers in my mind. Although it may not be as adventurous as some of our other activities, it was still incredibly exhilarating. And definitely not relaxed as other massages. But we liked it– a lot. My husband and I made it a daily ritual to indulge in a 90-minute Thai massage, and the experience left us speechless. As a matter of fact, he got a massage morning and night. As a result, upon returning home, I embarked on an extensive search to find genuine practitioners of this ancient art form.

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Ancient Healing

A “Thai massage” or “Thai yoga massage” uses 5,000-year-old healing techniques. And Thai massages haven’t changed much in all that time. The practice combines acupressure (Ayurvedic medicine) and Indian holistic principles. In the hopes of finding a balance between mind, body, and soul. As well as some slightly painful assisted yoga positioning.

Most Thai massages are done over the clothing; however, in Thailand, I received all my massages after undressing. I was given thin nylon undies and a sheath bra to wear after taking a quick shower.

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Benefits of Thai Massages

Massages, in general, relieve stress to the body, reintegrate the spirit and provide relief from the normal and not so normal activities of daily life. However, Thai massages, in particular, are believed to improve posture, breathing, flexibility, digestion and blood flow and circulation throughout the entire body.

The manipulations and posturing stretch the muscles, tone the inner organs, and reduce emotional and nervous tension caused by stress, fatigue, and injury. On one occasion, I combined a Thai massage with a hot stone massage that used smooth, heated basalt stones placed on key points of my body. The theory is that the stones allow the muscles to loosen up more, allowing the masseuse access to deeper tissue.

 

The Cost of a Massage

Now, here is where it gets interesting. In America, a ninety-minute massage can cost upwards of $100; however, in Thailand, a 90-minute massage costs about $13, including tips. Which is why we got one every night; the price was right… better than right. Here in Korea, the price varies. You can pay as little as $60 near just outside the Camp Walker Gate or pay more than $100 in downtown Busan at Mong Thai Massage. It’s located on the 4th floor of the Sunset Business Hotel.

You can pay even more at the Novotel Hotel’s Seok Thai, located on the 7th floor of the hotel in downtown Daegu, where they offer several beauty treatments and a couples massage, some as much as 230,000 Won. At these prices, a massage has been relocated to a special occasion.

Mong Thai Massage

I had no clue a Thai massage parlor was in the same building when I booked a room at the Sunset Business Hotel in Busan. Honestly, it seemed shady at first. We noticed a big sign in the elevator that said it was open for 24 hours. Does anything legal happen in the wee hours of the night? However, we were intrigued. So we decided to check it out and stepped off the elevator to satisfy our curiosity.

The 5 Senses

It was a delightful encounter. The air carried the gentle aroma of incense while soothing music played in the background. A friendly receptionist warmly greeted us as we arrived. We glanced over the price list but weren’t sure if we wanted to stay, because the prices were so different than massages in Thailand.

Ten minutes later, we found ourselves sipping warm tea. The staff guided us to the locker rooms for a refreshing shower. Then, I was led into a cozy room with blossoming flowers and a plush leather chair. My husband had already settled in. After a foot cleansing ritual, we were escorted to a spacious room with two inviting beds. It was late and my recollection is a bit blurry. All I remember was that I drifted in and out of sleep, aware of my snoring on a couple of occasions.

 

Conclusions

After reflecting on our experience, we found it somewhat lacking in authenticity as neither of the young ladies providing the massage were Thai, and their techniques seemed somewhat mechanical. Additionally, my husband felt that his masseuse lacked the necessary strength to deliver the deep tissue pressure he prefers. We were also unable to choose the type of oils used. Despite these drawbacks, the service and accommodations were exceptional, and the convenience of their operating hours was unbeatable. Although the price was higher compared to Thailand, we might consider visiting them again in the future when we stay at the hotel.

Have you received a Thai massage in Daegu or Busan? Where did you go and was it as good as the ones you received in Thailand? Let us know in the comments below.

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