I have to say, I am visiting Taipei this week and have had three massages from spas/masseurs I found via gayspa.tw. Personally, I tend to like spa experiences with masseurs rather than cruising in sauna-type spas. I think Taiwan is totally underrated… I have been having a wonderful time. Here are the reasons I’ve really enjoyed it…
Most of the spas have photos and stats of their masseurs, including body pics and face pics. Diverse types of masseurs available. In my experience, both in a previous visit this week, the pics have been accurate.
You will likely have to use a translator on most websites, but this is easy to do via Chrome or Safari. Pro tip… I find if the spa has a little bit of English on their site (even if it’s just here or there) they tend to be more accommodating to foreigners, including speaking English on Line (see more about that below).
Quality massage and extras… in every case I have had both an at least decent massage (including body to body in every case) and fun extras.
Spas are very easy to communicate via Line, similar to Thailand. In most cases the people responding to Line queries are very friendly and willing to discuss your desires and needs and recommend the right person. Other times they just want you to pick from a photo lineup, but they will still answer questions.
On language barrier… some spas speak English over Line, some you have to use a translator. Same with masseurs, I had one that spoke solid English and two that did not, but it’s relatively easy to use a translator and they seemed used to it.
Option of in call or outcall with similar pricing
On my last visit I did mostly in-call and most spas have unmarked facilities or apartments where the masseur greets you outside and takes you in, similar to the setups often found in Japan.
This visit, I have done outcall every time and had the masseurs come to my hotel. I think I prefer this, so much easier than me having to travel and they always bring oil. While I miss having a table, I can use pillows and all I need is an extra towel or two from housekeeping. In every case, the masseur has asked me if they can use my shower before the massage (I showered right before they arrived) and all three have helped me shower afterword.
Typically no down payments or anything are required for outcall, and prices for two hour comprehensive service are about $90-$110 USD, with no additional tip expected or asked for. In some cases I rounded up for the masseur, but never spent more than $125 USD for a 90-120 minute session.
Anyway, I wanted to share that Taipei is pretty fantastic. I think I have time for two more massages this trip, I will report back.
