Bangkok's soapy massage parlors is just one of the many reasons, if not the only reason why most single (or not so single) males take a trip to Bangkok, drawn to the fire like a moth to a flame.

Soapy massage's employ some of the prettiest girls (in most cases) who want to work in a better environment. Plus most customers who frequent these establishments are usually local Thais with money. Even Thai politicians, affluent business men, police big wigs and high ranking military officials visit the soapy massage parlors. So it's a great place for these ladies to hook up with them.

If you take a really good look at oil massage parlors and go go bars mentioned here you will find that all of the customers going there are foreigners.

However there are a few soapy massage parlors that are tending towards the foreigner crowd such as Nataree (which I recommend, though the rooms are dingy) and Subway Massage both located on Ratchadipesek road.

Today things have changed at the soapy massage establishments. It seems like the newer and often younger ladies have become a bit lazy. This isn't just what I have been experiencing but also expat friends and visiting buddies are seeing as well. The ladies have stopped giving thorough massages. Currently you will get a good rub down with their bodies in the tub followed by sex on the bed, but a traditional massage is missing in the middle

Is it a big deal? To some yes. After all aren't you paying for it? All I can say is I've been visiting soapy massage parlors frequently for over 8 years so I know what kind of service I'm supposed to receive. It seems like the new batch of girls don't believe in putting the extra effort, yet still receive a percentage of what customers are paying.

So what do you do if you really want a massage? I suggest speaking to the mamasan or papasan and let them know what you expect before you hand over your cash. Just be prepared that the lady you choose will oblige but will frown for doing the extra work. And I'll almost guarantee that the massage will be half assed.

Where are soapy massage parlors located?
There are several soapy massage parlors near the red light districts of Patpong; Infinity JC Massage, Plaza Massage and Versailles. The only one in Nana called Annie's Massage, right across the Majestic Grande Hotel (a girl friendly hotel I highly recommend).

Several soapy massage parlors are dotted along Petchburi road, but to be honest, those establishments are not worthy of mention.

For the grand daddy of all soapy massage parlors head over along Ratchadapidesek road or more commonly know to Thais as Ratchada road (a.k.a. Huay Kwang district). This area is really easy to get to with the MRT under ground train station. And you will find a map with a list of the soapy massage parlors below.

What's the difference between ,fishbowl, sideliner, and models?
The obvious answer is the price and just basically a category.

Fishbowl girls sit behind an enclosed room. And you can see them through a glass window (hence fishbowl). Ladies working behind here usually cost around 2000THB to 2500THB for 90 minutes.

You can see sideliners more up front, usually sitting in a well lit lounging area. These ladies are one step above in the looks department from fishbowl girls. Ladies here usually cost around 2500THB up to 3500THB for 90 minutes. Keep in my these ladies do not provide massages at all. You might try asking the papasan or mamasan if there is one who will do it.

Then there are models category. Ladies who are "models" are supposed to be the cream of the crop. Light skin, slim and young. Some were even ex-Thai Penthouse models. Only the higher end soapy massage parlors have models such as Poseidon and Utopia.

Note: As a visitor you're most likely going to get hit with the dreaded "Falang Surcharge". "What's a falang?" That would be you my friend. Unless you can speak Thai fluently or have a Thai friend who is a frequent customer than you will not have to pay extra. Otherwise expect to pay about 500THB to 1000THB more.

If you are on a budget and want to stay in a nice hotel near these soapy massage parlors I recommend getting yourself a room at one of the hotels below. Since they are also close to the MRT station you are never too far from all the nightlife action in Patpong, Nana and Soi Cowboy. And since all of these hotels are girl friendly you can always invite a lady back to your room without having to pay a visitor's fee.