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- Hours:
Mon-Sun 10 am - 10 pm
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Parking:
- Street
- Accepts Insurance:
- No
- By Appointment Only:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
94 reviews for Bua Thai Wellness Center
94 reviews in English
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Review from Zuad O.
Belmont, CA
I went there the other day to get a 90 minute "Thai Wellness Massage". I was told it is a combo of western and Thai massage. It was FABULOUS.
I've had many massages and I'm very particular. I like med - strong pressure, and I have a good idea when the masseuse knows what they are doing. I had Kelly and she was excellent. I highly recommend this place. -
Review from Helena N.
San Leandro, CA
I went there for 2 reasons, 1) a friend strongly recommends them, and 2) i got a great deal from groupon.
It was great!! The atmosphere was gorgeous...
although the lady who worked on me was a bit on the big side, and when she stepped on me, i almost pass out...
overall, it was great !! -
Review from Yun C.
I had a groupon for 90 minutes of Thai Massage but the lady was super nice, she gave me the "aromatic" massage wow, thanks! With the aromatic massage, I got to choose what aroma of massage oil that I would like to use, there were like 6-7 diffferent kinds that you could sniff before you decide.
The place is clean and surprisingly quiet! You removed your shoes when you entered the room and you got placed in a curtain separated small cubical for the massage session.
The masseuse would step on your back and the pressure would be adjusted to your liking. I personally like deep massages and my female masseuse had really strong massage on my back loveee it! :)
They gave you a T-shirt to wear and a loose pants. 1/2 way, I was asked to removed my shirt and she applied warm aromatic massage oil on my back, hmmmm smelled so good!
At the end of the massage, the masseuse performed some adjustments, cracked my bones and all ..WOAAA felt so good!
They also gave me a coupon for my next visit, thanks!
It's certainly a different type of massage, but worth to try and experience :) Excellent customer service too, and clean bathroom, yay! -
Review from ann t.
San Francisco, CA
Gorgeous place. Well managed and organized. Excellent massage. I had an hour Thai massage there yesterday and I felt lighter, taller and more balanced. Many aches and pains are gone. I'm a fan.
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Review from Venetia Y.
San Carlos, CA
I would definitely give this Wellness Center five stars, but saving it for the next time I go. I made a mistake of not speaking up that I wanted stronger pressure especially in my neck, upper and lower back. I may have scared the massage therapist since I had foot surgery and a hip replacement 8 years ago! Nonetheless, this is a great place. The owner, Aoy is very pleasant and has the right idea of coming up with different types of promotions to new and existing customers. I am going to do a mom's morning party there soon!
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Review from Shawn S.
San Francisco, CA
This is my first time visit to Bua Thai Wellness Center but I can assure you that it won't be my last.
My friend and I visited here last night after a long day of hiking in Santa Clara county and it was a first for us. It was to my surprise that establishment had a very nice atmosphere and everyone was soft spoken and have a good vibe. - Smiles go a very long way in my book and I appreciate their hospitality.
We were fortunate enough to be placed into a evening appointment after two people canceled their reservation that evening. Talk about good timing!
The ambiance; relaxing music and clean air along with nice decor made it a pleasure to the senses.
The massage room; we were guided to our rooms which are very spacious and had a nice design to them. I think they did a good job in this place because I've never been to an establishment which looked this inviting ;)
The masseuse: She was very experienced and I say that through experience having my own experience as a massage therapist ;) My masseuse knew when to provide more pressure in my shoulders and also knew when to go lighter as she read my body signs well.
The "Stretch": Oh, I think they just made "Thai" massages my overall favorite and I'm really into these type of creature luxuries that are so enjoyable after a long day of hiking.
Overall? I have to say they are professional in both appearance, attitude, and customer service etiquette and so I have give them a....FIVE START rating for being such a nice place to visit.
FYI PEOPLE: They own disclaimer asks you to "NOT" mention their names on sites like Yelp. Come on' people! Don't ya read what you sign? LOL. -
Review from Sylvia L.
San Mateo, CA
I have been to the old location but this is my first time at this center and I'm very impressed.
My boyfriend had a 90 minute massage (with a Groupon) and I opted for a regular 60 minute massage. Since my boyfriend started his massage first, I was allowed to wait and lay down in a nice room in the back where the massage rooms are.
My masseuse was very kind and polite. My back is still sore from all that work she did! She has magic fingers (and feet!) I've had other Thai massages before and this was definitely on par.
I enjoyed my tea after the massage and I think Aoy even recognized me even though I have only been to her old location once, which was more than 2 years ago. -
Review from Jacob F.
Union City, CA
Haven't been to see Aoy in two years but the new place is great. I wa sad to see Aoy to busy behind the front desk to massage much anymore. She is one of the best I have had. Place looks great.
Be aware that if you have had a Thai massage from Thailand or from Aoy (the truely painful one) and liked it then tell the massuer that works on you that you want the true thing and not a mixed method. Some of the technicians have adobted a kindler gentler palming technique that doesn't quite stay on the meridian lines as a true thumb will or a skilled elbow.
Overall , still the greatest place with the greatest deals. -
Review from Lang N.
San Francisco, CA
pretty good.
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Review from Roger A.
Burlingame, CA
I went here on my bday off a group on deal.. they seem to always have a deal. The deal I got was for a 90 minute massage!!!
The person up front was really nice and did the usual fill out paper of where your trouble areas were.
I was then taken to the back and shortly after started my massage.
It was really great!!!
The place is very nice and calming with scents going about.
The people there are very friendly and offer tea after.
They have monthly deals going about. -
Review from Susan L.
Loved the decor/set-up with the private little beds. Loved the nice service.
Thought the whole experience was really unique and would recommend anyone who has not tried it to give it a shot.
The things I didn't like was that it didn't really compare to getting a professional deep tissue massage (this isn't really a huge issue since I realize it's a totally different style), and for some reason my jaw and throat really started hurting because the way the pillow is angled. I tried to adjust my head several times but after a while all I could think about was my jaw popping.
Anyways though I think next time I'll just mention that before my massage and work with the masseuse to figure out a better way for me to rest my head. -
Review from Edward L.
San Mateo, CA
Came here as I needed a massage for my neck and lower back....
I've not had a Thai massage before, but after the session, I felt that the session was well worth it....
The therapist hit all of my back and neck's pressure points.... using what seemed to be fingers, elbows, knee and feet.... The pressure was quite intense as I was at times really feeling close to pain due to the intensity..... The therapist would ask at times if the pressure was too painful, so that was nice.
After the massage, there were body and leg stretch positioning... I'm not very pliant, so, I felt that I wasn't doing too well at times...
The staff was friendly, the store is nice, calming and clean.
Overall, the session was terrific and I'll definitely find time to go back again soon! -
Review from Christine T.
San Francisco, CA
I thought they were pretty amazing! I saw Paul and he was professional, polite and skilled. It was my first Thai massage and though I had an idea of what to expect I wasn't sure. I felt very relaxed when it was done.
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Review from Katherine R.
San Mateo, CA
This is a beautiful facility. They have friendly and informative staff, great deals, and a very enjoyable and healing massage. I will definitely go back.
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Review from R C.
San Mateo, CA
If you like Thai massages come to this place. You need to ask for Pat. I've been here twice and every time I feel amazing after wards. My tense back and shoulders are so happy after the massage. I really enjoy the stretching movements that come with a Thai Massage. I feel like my muscles have been delicately moved back into place. Much more movement is involved compared to your typical massage but it works.
The prices are pretty fare compared to most relaxation centers. It' also very clean. When you first walk in your automatically greeted with a clam feeling and lemongrass green tea. -
Review from Anna Y.
Daly City, CA
My trainer kept suggesting for me to try this place so we both decided to come. I had my first Thai Massage last night. And OMG.. the best massage I have ever had. And for $55, it is well worth your money. I have been working out extensively for the past 2 days (2 hours each time) so my back was in pain. The green tea oil plus the hot stone was incredible. I would definitely come back. Thanks to my trainer/coach/friend, Phong Le for recommending this place!
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Review from Erin S.
wow....i feel terrific. what a great stretch:) i had a thai massage in thailand and I was seriously worried about this one...as that one was like being torn apart. but, my fellow yelpers enjoy them ...so groupon allowed us to give them a try. Mint was my therapist and Janna was Eds (my hubby). We both went in feeling tight and sore from working out the last few weeks. Eds shoulder has been messed up for months and we were worried about that too. NO NEED TO WORRY! His shoulder feels better than after cortisone shots and acupuncture put together. And seriously folks..Mint made a pretzel of me...she walked all over me...she pulled and prodded just the right amount AND I AM A FAN. If you are considering a massage treat yourself to this amazing studio:)
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Review from Monica S.
Saratoga, CA
I've lived with chronic pain for years and wanted to try "another thing" to help break the curse. Because I was a newbie, the gal in the front wanted to make sure I wanted to proceed by telling me: 1) Thai massage is painful and 2) Thai massage is not a cure all. OK, I appreciate the honesty. I know what to expect and I'm ready. Well, gosh, that massage was painful, but I made it out alive without revealing where the missile bases were. My first ever Thai massage was with Aoy and boy can she work a body. I understand the concept of Thai massage and just let Aoy go for it because I'm already in pain. Things can only get better. The gal up in the front was right. I still have chronic pain (as expected), but I have a better appreciation of Thai massage and how it tries to help people like me. The specials help make this therapy more affordable.
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Review from Jenny C.
San Mateo, CA
Been to Bua Thai more than 3x now, and each time was a treat. Although the facility is not a standard "spa" feel, it's clean, soothing, and calming. Once you're in the treatment areas, you know you're in for a treat and relaxation.
I've had Pat 2x, and I have to admit, I'm very tight and stiff. He worked and was able to break some of the knots down and make me feel so well rested after the treatment (although sometime a slight soreness do follow with tighter spots). If you're looking for "deep tissue massage", Pat is the right therapist for you.
Had treatment with the owner, and I must say that she's super talented. You can feel that her technique is different, yet very effective.
Price is something you can't beat. Each month's promotion are jaw dropping and you wish you have more hours in a week just so you can go to Bua Thai everyday. It's that affordable.
Each staff members give you the vibe that they truly care for your well being. This is no rub down place like other massage places (including luxurious ones). Bua Thai offer genuine massage that will help you feel, and be better, I highly highly recommend it! -
Review from .Nette T.
Ow. Ow. OW. I feel bruised and battered thanks to May, but I feel much better after a Thai body massage. It was just the thing I needed to get out the knots from my neck and upper back. The pressure was perfect - to some it would be very painful but afterwards I felt like a million bucks.
The wellness center is clean and quiet with soothing Thai music and staff is freindly. Make sure you make an appointment because it can get busy during the weekends. -
Review from K D.
San Mateo, CA
i've been twice and they worked wonders with my tense back and shoulders! Ask for Pat! he was simply amazing!
friendly staff, clean and peaceful establishment! -
Review from Jenny C.
Give Noy (Noi) a try. I'm glad I did. She def hits my spots
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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11/2/2011
This has got to be one of the best massages ever! I've gotten Thai massages in Thailand and Aoy… Read more »
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11/2/2011
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Review from Girl S.
San Mateo, CA
I've been here twice. Both times I'm absolutely satisfied with results.
I have a great tension in my neck and back and thai massage is the best way to relieve it and help me feel better.
Aoy's massage was more painful than the massage of another masseuse. Both of them were good though. I guess everyone has different strength and techniques too.
They always exceed the time of 1.5 hrs for massage and never rush. That's a bid plus. In other spas you feel like they are constantly looking at the clock. Here they are done when your body is fully taken care of. -
Review from Bea B.
Palo Alto, CA
I am a massage fiend. I love massages, I have had many many massages in my lifetime. Expensive hoity-toity massages, hole-in-the-wall feet massages, you name it, I've had it. But this was only my 2nd Thai massage and I will tell you this - I had an out-of-body spiritual experience.
I booked a 90 minute massage with Pat after my good friend, who has 20+ years of body work experience, highly recommended him. And now I know why. Pat has magical fingers, elbows, forearms, and feet. He worked out all my knots on my lower back and my neck and shoulders. He is WONDERFUL.
After I left, I went straight to a dinner with my girlfriends and announced "I just had one of the best massages I've ever had." My friends were very impressed because they know I love me my massages. Pat is fantastic! -
Review from Dancing D.
San Mateo County, CA
I had a "therapeutic massage" instead of the regular Thai massage because I wanted to get rid of neck pain and muscle spasms. I called on a Friday evening and was surprised to get an appointment on Saturday afternoon. The owner recommended a massage therapist who is good with neck problems. I asked if they washed the clothing for every client. She laughed and assured me yes and all the sheets as well.
I arrived 5 minutes before the appointment time and realized that I probably should have been told or known to arrive 15 minutes early as a first-time client since there was a form to fill out. Then it took me several minutes to figure out how to put on and tie the pants so I probably lost a few minutes of massage time. Next time I will have to ask how to wear them. Yes, everything was indeed very clean, crisp, and fresh.
The massage therapist started at my feet. It was interesting. There was one point when he pressed into my big toe, it hurt, and my foot jumped. When I got home, I looked up some Thai foot reflexology charts online and the location corresponded to the neck area. I'm not sure I believed this stuff before but this is interesting. There was another location that corresponded to sciatic nerve and hip. I had recently started having problems with this area but didn't circle it on the intake form. Somehow he knew that area on one side needed massaging without even touching it first.
I was a bit wary of having massage with whole palms pressing on my back along my spine so asked him to go lighter. After a while, I got the sense he knew what he was doing. I am still not sure whether this type of massage is good for someone with my body type- very skinny, no muscles, small bones, and delicate- as it seems it could shift and irritate my spine. The finger massages felt better. He did help partially get out the stiff muscle spasm on one side of my neck and shoulder. That was somewhat painful.
I forgot to ask about the January special deals for first-time clients that they had on the Web site, a small discount or extra minutes on the feet, and did not receive this. When I got home 20 minutes later, I still had an imprint running up my face from the face pillow and the wrinkles under my eyes had been squeezed deeper at least temporarily, something I would like to avoid. Not sure if I didn't have my face in the right place or what.
My muscles continue to release bit by bit over a week after the massage and the main neck problem is almost gone. I have had chronic fatigue syndrome and pain for almost 6 years after injury and illness. About a week after this massage, another massage from my tai chi teacher, and some self-massage after observing what they did, I was able to do two qigong/tai chi classes two days in a row instead of having to rest two days after a class, and go to the mall for the first time in almost 6 years.
This is a place I might come back to after trying at least one other type of massage and therapist at another place since I am new to getting massages. -
Review from Jen D.
Hi Peter. Thank you for your message, however, I am not misunderstanding your prices. My boyfriend and I had an appointment back when it was called Boonthrika and was around 25th Ave and El Camino. There were only two people working at the time. The female who I assumed was the owner and a middle aged man with very long hair. Our appointments were indeed 2 hours long, I remember this clearly because at first, I thought the appointment was 1 hour and 20 mins because the website stated 120mins, and I misread the information. But as we all know, 120mins = 2 hours. We paid a total of $120, not including tip, for 2 people.
My recent massage at the new center was $60 and it lasted for 1 hour and 15 mins. Originally when I booked, it was for one hour, but at the time of booking I was told that there was a monthly special that gave me an additional 15 mins for free.
Again, thank you for your message, but please know that I understand your pricing very clearly and you have indeed doubled your prices since you have moved to the new location.
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My first experience was over a year ago when this business was called Boonthrika Thai Massage. It was my first thai massage experience and it was indeed an amazing experience. At that time, the cost was $60 for 120 mins. That 2 whole hours for $30/hour. I couldn't believe how amazing the massage was and for only $30/hour! I tried to go back several times, but there were almost no appointments available and then the owner lost one of her employees because he went traveling or something like that.
I recently visited the new location, now renamed Bua Thai Wellness Center. I was absolutely SHOCKED to hear about the new prices. Now you only get a 1 hour massage for $60. I know businesses need to increase their prices sometimes, but offering 1/2 the services at the same amount is just unacceptable.
I actually really love the massages here. For that alone this place deserves 5 stars, but I'm sorry to say that jacking your prices up just cost you 1 customer. 2 actually since the bf won't come here after learning of the price increase.Comment from Peter C. of Bua Thai Wellness Center 3/23/2011
Hi Jen, sorry if our rates have led to some… More » -
Review from Opinionated X.
San Francisco, CA
On a spontaneous impulse I decided it was time to forego the traditional Swedish/deep tissue massage and give this a try. I'm in chronic discomfort of aching muscles so a massage is more of a necessity than a luxury.
I arrived and was impressed with the soothing ambience and felt relaxed as I waited.
The massage was great. The pressure was what I've been needing, referring to the feet technique. My regret was not going for the additional 30 minutes because I felt in a relaxed state when I was told time was up. I looked at the clock and was cheated out of 15 minutes. Was it because I went to the bathroom before the massage started? because I was waiting for an employee to come to the front? Whatever the reason was, I felt so good after the massage that I let it go and will still rate it 5 stars. So that should speak volumes. -
Review from Odie O.
The atmosphere was gorgeous, the clothing to wear was comfy, the prices are great. Could have been a good experience but I had a guy and I told him from the beginning to go lightly cause I was sore but he didn't seem to get it. During the massage I had to tell him again that it was so painful that I could not bear it but he did not lighten up so overall it was an incredibly painful experience where I was not relaxed at all but stressed out and making painful noises most of the time. Not the type of deep pressure massage I was looking for. Wish I had gotten someone else who would have listened to me more and gone light on me.
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Review from Rachel T.
Palo Alto, CA
Great massage! Very well priced! I didn't think the knots in my back could come out from just one visit and although they are not totally gone, my posture improved and I was in less pain. Wow! Usually this is after many visits! The only downside is I'm in Palo alto... But it's worth the drive!
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Review from Winnie C.
San Mateo, CA
Probably the best massage I've ever gotten. I've only seen her a few times, but had apparently left an impression. She knows me as the one who snored through the entire session.
My muscles get very tight and I like my massages to be deep and hard. For such a small little lady, she's the one to give it to me exactly that way. Not only does she use a firm hand, but she seems to really know where all my tight knots are and was able to ease them enough so that I become functional again.
Thanks for everything. -
Review from margarita r.
Palo Alto, CA
Wow! What a wonderful experience. That was my first Thai massage. the deep kneading pressure is not for the faint of heart. Unfortunately I forget the name of the therapist but she really worked hard to loosen the knots on my back. The stretching portion was equally refreshing as I am very flexible so she really pushed me to my limits. I will go back.
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Review from James P.
Milpitas, CA
Just stopped by yesterday and it was awesome. She was super busied yet willing to accommodated me. It was nice to see her again more energetic than ever and the massage was a pain of joy.
She is very professional, detailed, energetic and creative. Being a great therapist is not just performing something well but being able to evolve beyond your comfort zone is something Aoy does well.
As for the place it's roomy and clean with beautiful Thai decorative designs. However, it was a bit stuffy but no biggie. Lastly, the price is affordable and no worries on parking. -
Review from Fransisca T.
San Jose, CA
I've just moved back to Bay area. So I need a really good Thai massage place. (Deep tissue massage does not do anything anymore for me). I found this place thanks to the yelpers ^-^. Booked my appt with Aoy and got in today.
She's really strong despite her size. She fixed me up good. The massage was painfully good ( I ask for a strong massage since I'm not new to Thai massage and I really need a good "beat up" to release me from my back pain). I feel like a noddle afterwards (very relaxed and my body feel very light).
If you feel that the pressure is too strong, let her know and she'll adjust.
I do not mind the 30 minutes drive to San Mateo at all. If you need a good massage to release you from all the tension built up in your body, this is the place to go to. It's not a normal day spa but it's an authentic Thai massage. It's yoga done to you and it's more intense than any massages. I'm looking forward to come here again. Definitely on my list!!!
Ps: don't forget to tip well -
Review from Terri R.
San Mateo, CA
My first Thai massage ever, my friends told me they can be painful so I was a bit leery but willing to give it a try. I called and get in the same day (weekday so everyone else was working) which was nice, and the ladies were very pleasant. I suffer with chronic back pain and spasms so I am also wound up tight and use to massages hurting at first but know that in the end I feel better. This is no where like a massage I am use to, in fact I liked it better they stretch your muscles along with the massage. It did not hurt and was quite enjoyable, I will definitely be back for more.
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Review from Rochelle C.
Redwood City, CA
Boontharika Traditional Thai Massage is a more than a 5 star experience!!!! Believe it.
Today is the second time I have been back for Thai massage at Boontharika and I absolutely adore Aoy (Pronounced Oy)! She is truly a gifted healer and massage therapist. I have searched out massage around the globe and am happy to report that the best Thai Massage is right here in the Bay Area!!! How thankful we are! My husband goes to Aoy as well. Some folks go for six hours! This type of deep tissue massage is not for the fluff and buff massage aficionado. This is true body therapy and stretching.
My father was a massage therapist, so I grew up appreciating deep tissue and pressure point work. Aoy uses her hands, feet, fingers and palms to relax and work the muscles in your body. She will only use her feet if you are comfortable with it. She has an innate ability to sense the tension and painful spots that need the extra attention, and at the same time works your entire body - sending you into a perfect state of total body BLISS!!!
The atmosphere is unassuming and tranquil with beautiful Thai fabrics and a collection of Buddha's to delight you after treatment!
Aoy charges $60.00 for 1.15 hours and it is unheard of! I would like to help Aoy grow her business. I hear her worry and does not feel totally confident in the English language and I assured her just being herself is enough for all of us. Here is what I will do: You book yourself an appointment with Aoy, use the code name "Rochelle Carr" with Aoy when you book it. Aoy will write down your name for me and on your second visit with Aoy, I will pay $5.00 of your treatment! You will only pay $55.00 for your second incredible Thai Massage experience! I believe in her, and so will you. We need more folks in the world like Aoy. Relax, enjoy yourself, and let Aoy rub tiger balm into all your life aches and pains.
Give yourself and your friends a special treat - Boontharika Traditional Thai Massage! Magic and Miracles........I promise. :-)
"Adventure lies not in the places we seek, but in the moments we create in the places we treasure."
--Rochelle Carr
http://www.rochellecar...
Fine Artist and Author: Follow Your Heart Poetry -
Review from Black box a.
San Mateo, CA
Love this place! If you've never been here before you totally must try them! I've been here twice and both time I had the male masseuses. They very good at their craft and the massage is tailored to your needs! How would I describe it? It's like a deep tissue yoga. Must ..fight... falling.. asleep.They serve you a warm cup of lemongrass tea afterwards. It helps the cleansing after working on your lymph nodes. Hope you enjoy the experience too!
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Review from F C.
Belmont, CA
I really don't know why I keep coming back because every time...EVERY TIME.... it hurts like hell. I keep on telling Aoy I don't know why I am coming back... but hurting aside, it is amazing!
It might not be your "relaxing" massage where you get at the spa but Aoy really helped my shoulders! I don't know how she does it but my shoulders are more relax than before. I have less headache and sleep better. As time progresses, the massage is not as painful! (At least I am screaming less) If your muscles are not tight, the massage is pretty smoothing. If your muscles are tight..... it hurts... really really hurts!
In conclusion, if you are looking for massage that feels good for an hour, go somewhere else. If you want a massage that helps you with your pain/muscle tightness and feels good after the massage, Aoy is your gal! -
Review from Michael V.
Redwood City, CA
THE BEST! I have been getting massages (what I thought were massages...) for about a decade now and I am just GLAD, I had the chance to get a treatment from Aoy!
True like other reviews, she is very strong, but I felt great. She combines a great massage with stretching.
Highly recommended and very affordable authentic Thai Massage. I can't wait for my wife to try it! -
Review from Kanani C.
San Mateo, CA
I received my first Professional Thai massage. I'm quite familiar with different modalities, being a CMT myself. I felt like my back needed an adjustment, but I don't like pops when i know im so tight. I knew Thai massage is like yoga being done to u. I highly reccomend Pat. I had a 2 hr session n came out feeling re aligned, n my back popped on it's own while Pat stretched me out!! I feel like a million bucks! 4 stars because its a little pricey...120 gor 2 hrz...60 for hour. but to get a Full body, 2 hours, ....
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Review from jackilyn b.
Burlingame, CA
Aoy is Amazing!!! She is like a human spider masseuse because it is like she has 8 arms and legs. I don't know how she does it!
Thai massage is truly something special and it is a technique that not just any massage therapist can do. Aoy is an expert at what she does. She is very friendly and professional.
The massage hurt SO good! Aoy knew exactly where to put pressure without me even telling her. I loved everything about the massage, but my favorite part was the stretching. When my session was done, I felt realigned, rejuvenated and relaxed.
I will definitely be going back here to try out Aoy's new recruits.
