I live in Singapore and came to Saratoga Springs for business. I walked into this place in spite of having read some below-average reviews. I may have been lucky, but I was very satisfied with the massage.
First, the masseuse (and owner?) is originally from China and doesn't speak much English. I think it's important to realize that the Chinese are not very friendly from the onset, so she greeted me and promptly asked what massage I wanted, followed by request for payment (and tip!). If you don't want to tip upfront, charge the massage to your credit card and tell her you'll tip afterward. I didn't mind tipping upfront, hoping that 20% would make for a more attentive massage. Right I was: the massage was exactly as I had asked for: deep-tissue oil massage, with focus on my back and neck. She found all the areas that were stiff and worked her way to relax those muscles very well. I also got a very nice hot-stone massage at the end!
Second, the place was clean and she had some nice, relaxing music while she massaged me. The smell at the entrance was a bit strange, but don't let that put you off: the massage room was clean, she has single-use covers for the place you'll place your face down the massage table and the towels were clean and fresh smelling.
Third, one thing would be a nice add-on is disposable underwear. She didn't seem to have them or didn't understand my request. They're quite standard in Asia, but I also didn't get them in a massage place in Santa Clara so they may just not be that popular in the States.
Fourth, a little chit chat and telling her that the massage was good was well-received: she was pleased and thankful for the compliment. Remember that even though her English isn't good, she still wants the same attention as anyone else :)
Either way - I was very happy with my massage and would recommend this place wholeheartedly. read more