So last week I posted about my not-so-great first Thai massage experience, and quite a few people suggested I try an oil massage instead because it would be more relaxing.

Well… I tried one, and now I have even more questions 😂

I’m middle-aged, recently divorced and traveling alone, but I’m definitely not looking for that kind of Thailand experience. I genuinely just wanted a normal, relaxing massage.

I went to a small, inexpensive massage shop near my hotel where I’d already had a few good foot massages. For the oil massage they gave me those little disposable mesh underwear, which was new to me, but okay.

What made me uncomfortable was how much time the therapist spent massaging very high up my thighs and around my lower abdomen. It felt much more intimate than the massages I’m used to back home. Nothing actually inappropriate was offered, but I spent half the massage wondering whether this was normal or whether I’d accidentally chosen the wrong type of place.

The language barrier didn’t help either. I didn’t want to complain if this was simply a normal part of an oil massage in Thailand, but at the same time I wasn’t exactly relaxed!

So, genuine question for people living here: Is this normal for a Thai oil massage?

Would I have a different experience at a reputable spa, wellness center, hotel spa or proper massage clinic? I’m thinking about trying again somewhere more professional, even if it costs more.

And just to be clear, I’m only looking for a legitimate therapeutic/relaxation massage. 😅

Would appreciate recommendations or advice from locals and expats who know the massage scene here better than I do.

Is This Normal for an Oil Massage in Thailand, or Did I Pick the Wrong Place?

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