By Regina Su & Jay Wang &
Douglas Habecker Translated by Crystal Kuo
As any visitor to Thailand will testify,
one that country's most essential experiences is Thai
massage. In fact, many tourists make it a daily ritual
while journeying through the "Land of Smiles".
These days, however, Taichung residents can include
authentic Thai massage in their daily routines, thanks
to Fantasy Thai Massage. Owner Iris Shu explains that
she became a fan of Thai massage during frequent trips
to that country and decided to turn her beauty salon
(located opposite Smooth Restaurant) into Taichung's
first Thai massage center over a year ago. Using experienced
Thai masseuses trained to strict standards, Shu provides
customers with full-body massage. This is either NT$800
for an hour or NT$1,200 for two hours--which, Shu
says, is really necessary to enjoy a genuine full
Thai massage. Since opening, her shop has seen a regular
stream of repeat and new customers--evenly divided
between women and men, Taiwanese and foreigners. "I
think Thai massage is not only unique, but suitable
for modern, high-pressure Taiwanese lifestyles, which
leave many without energy or exercise," says
the owner. Fantasy Thai Massage is open daily from
noon to midnight (only closed the first/third Mondays
each month) and advance reservations are requested.
