What better way to escape the hustle and bustle of city life than to treat yourself to a relaxing and rejuvenating massage? A quality Thai massage can be an excellent way to let go of any tension, worry and stress, as the qualified masseurs help you stretch your body.
Canberra is home to numerous Thai massage salons, each offering their own unique packages and supplemented by other spa treatments and facilities. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran of Thai massage or you’re looking to treat yourself, knowing where to start looking can be quite overwhelming. You’re quite literally putting your body in the hands of a stranger – so how can you be sure that you’re picking the perfect salon before you even try it?
You’ve come to the right place. In this article, we’ll tell you about what makes a great Thai massage salon, as well as an informative guide to some of Canberra’s best.
What makes a great Thai massage salon?
Not sure what exactly you want out of a Thai massage salon in the Canberra area? No worries. The following features will ensure you leave the spa feeling as good as new.
- Qualified therapists. The best massages are performed by therapists that are not only qualified and educated in the art of Thai massage, but also have years of experience.
- A clean environment. There’s nothing more unsettling than a less-than-hygienic massage salon. Cleanliness is vital.
- A peaceful atmosphere. You go to the spa to relax, to escape the craziness of everyday life. You want a spa that goes above and beyond to ensure you can rest both your body and your mind.
- Well priced.No one likes to be ripped off. Although you most often do get what you pay for, opt for a spa that’s priced competitively. And, if you pay premium prices, ensure you get premium treatment.
- A range of treatments. Whether you’d like to be pampered or healed, the best spas offer a range of treatments that can be tailored to your specific needs.
The best Thai massage salons in Canberra
Riotact’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Riotact and Facebook as well as maintaining a minimum average of 4/5 stars on Google.
Bai Po Thai Massage
Located in Dickson, Bai Po Thai Massage is an ideal place to indulge in a little pampering. Picture it now: the sound of a trickling waterfall sends you into a state of deep relaxation as tension melts away. The competent team behind Bai Po Thai Massage guarantee that something as seemingly simple as a one-hour traditional Thai massage can be almost life-changing.
Facebook user Michelle Loggie says, “The therapist I had was very good and the service was exceptional. I would highly recommend Bai Po Thai Massage!”
Thai Bliss Therapeutic Massage
Thai Bliss is a luxurious retreat located right in the heart of the city. With a team of hand-picked and master-trained Thai massage professionals ready to delivery optimum results in every treatment, Thai Bliss is here to help you revive your spirit, indulge your senses and relax with a soothing therapy that has been specially tailored for you and your needs.
See what ‘Local Guide’ Hemanth Sagar had to say in their Google review of Thai Bliss, “My experience is really good here. Such a pleasant and soothing place it is. The ambience there is amazing, and the staff are really friendly.”
Sawasdee Thai Massage
Since opening in 2010, this family business has served the people of the Tuggeranong area and supported the local community with a caring and friendly approach. Sawasdee Thai Massage uses only premium oils, balms and scrubs to ensure all their clients have the best experience possible. And, if you’re feeling particularly indulgent or like you really need some proper relaxation times, you can schedule a traditional Thai massage with them for as long as 2 hours!
‘Local Guide’ Emily Newman-Martin writes, “Best massage place in Canberra. Honestly, this place is amazing. (…) Looks and smells wonderful, clean, everybody is so courteous and makes you feel very comfortable.”
Sui Massage & Day Spa
Sui Massage & Day Spa offers a range of signature massages aimed at realigning energy flows with stretching, deep pressure and soothing movements. Inspired by ancient Eastern healing traditions, the massage specialists are here to guide you to optimum body and mind equilibrium. Not only does Sui offer traditional Thai massage, but they also offer Thai oil massage for those who truly wish to indulge.
On Google Rachael Buckland writes, “Our favourite massage in Canberra - tailored to injuries / specific issues. We always appreciate the high-quality service at Sui Spa.”
Mawson Therapeutic Thai Massage
Mawson Therapeutic is a salon located away from the city centre, offering you a true oasis of wellness and happiness with a wide range of massage therapies for all clients. As well as remedial, deep tissue, pre- and post-natal massage and aroma therapy, Mawson Therapeutic also offers traditional Thai massage therapies for all clients.
Happy client Dawn Manning wrote the following Facebook review of her experience at Mawson Therapeutic, “The Masseuse gave me a genuine Thai massage. I believe my lady learnt at Wat Pho in Thai and it was strong, detailed and excellent. I would thoroughly recommend this Massage establishment by well-trained ladies.”
Touch of Siam Therapeutic Massage
Touch of Siam offers a range of traditional Thai massages along with other therapies, all designed to help with relieving muscle tension, aches and pain in all areas of the body. If you’re interested in a remedial Thai massage, they’ve got you covered with their deep tissue Thai massage, which is perfect for those recovering from sports injuries, deep tension and stubborn pain points.
Facebook user Acia Perez is particularly happy with her experience at Touch of Siam, writing, “I’m now coming here once a week. My body always feels relaxed and soothed after coming here. I’m very picky with Thai massages as I am Thai myself, so I know what a real Thai massage is and touch of Siam are authentic in their techniques.”
Sitthara Therapeutic Massage and Spa
One of Canberra’s best-kept secrets, Sitthara Therapeutic Massage and Spa is adored by both local residents and visitors. With two locations in Braddon and Kingston, each appointed with luxurious detail, this spa offers a whole host of massage therapies. Drop in a little early to enjoy complimentary refreshments before your appointment.
As Facebook user Heather Maree writes, “Wonderful place, beautiful ambience, friendly staff and the massage fantastic.”
Looking for more ways to unwind? Check out our articles on the best acupuncturists, best Chinese massage therapists, best day spas and best remedial massage clinics in Canberra for some great recommendations.
Your experience with Thai massage salons in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback, if you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the Thai massage salons listed above? Have we missed your favourite? If so, please share your feedback in the comments below!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Thai massage and Swedish massage?
The main difference between Thai massage and Swedish massage is equipment. While Swedish massage takes place on a massage table and uses oils, Thai massage does not use any oil and takes place on a mat on the floor. The other difference is technique - while Swedish massage kneads away at knots and tension, Thai massage's main technique is full-body stretching, which is why it is sometimes referred to as "assisted yoga."
What are the health benefits of a Thai massage?
There are many health benefits to Thai massage. It can help increase your circulation, relieve stress and anxiety, improve your mobility and relieve joint pain.
How regularly should I get a Thai massage?
There are no rules for how often you should get a Thai massage. If you're wanting to improve your range of motion, relieve pain and reduce stress, there are many stretching exercises similar to Thai massage that you can do at home. However, if you're using Thai massage to overcome a chronic problem, then try booking an appointment every 4-6 weeks.
Can I wear clothes during a Thai massage?
Absolutely! Unlike Western massage that uses oils, Thai massage does not, and therefore you can remain clothed during your session. However, fitted clothes are recommended so that your clothes don't get in the masseur's way.
Are there any risks to Thai massage?
Due to its impacts on the circulatory system, people with conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, osteoperosis should avoid Thai massage. That being said, trained massage therapists can adjust the intensity and pressure to suit their clients' needs.