Thai Massage, Hat Yai – Insider Tips

Things to Do in Hat Yai: Thai Massage

When visiting really anywhere in Thailand, including to Hat Yai, one of the most soothing experiences is to receive a Thai massage. You just need to know what to look for and how to pick out the right service provider.

How to Find a Quality Thai Massage

There is a good chance your hotel offers some Thai massage services. These locations are typically clean and you won’t have to worry about confusing it with an “adult” Thai massage. However, you’ll also pay more than you need to due to the convenience of having it at the hotel. There are plenty of other locations out in Hat Yai where you can pay for a quality Thai massage. Generally, avoid the massage parlors located in back alleys. If it feels shady, there is a chance it is. So stick with the parlors easily identified as you walk past.

What to Pay for a Massage

The hotel massage will cost more. Those prices are a bit harder to quote. However, for massages given outside of the hotel, you shouldn’t pay more than 250 baht (around $7 to $8 USD, at time of publication) for 90 minutes or so, depending on the exact exchange rate at the time. You’ll pay more for a massage in the more touristy areas of Thailand, such as Bangkok or in the larger island cities, which is what makes Hat Yai an attractive location.

Does a Thai Massage Hurt?

You may have heard some people say Thai massages can hurt. If they say this they likely did not receive a very good one. Unlike other forms of massage therapy, Thai massage is pressure-point based. It is all about applying the appropriate amount of pressure to help reduce tension. Apply too much pressure and the massage becomes painful., which is when you need to let the therapist know so they can go easier on your pressure points.

Foot Massage

If you’re not up for an entire body massage, consider a foot massage. It is believed that certain areas of the foot connect with different areas of the body. So, by working a set area it can improve digestion, reduce heart burn, cut stress, and do just about anything else. Whether you subscribe to this belief is one thing, but it does feel good regardless.

Editor’s note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about receiving a Thai massage in Hat Yai.