As an update to my first visit which I enjoyed, during the afterglow I was talked into buying a package of massages which I was told provided a great saving on the cost. I kept trying to ask what the saving was, and in the haze of the post massage relaxation struggled to do the math in my head, as well as the language barrier conveniently (as you occasionally find in Paris) making things difficult at the appropriate moment. Needless to say, just as I was feeling flushed and grateful, the man at front desk laid on the hard sell and told me I would make dramatic savings by spending 420 euros on a card for 6 massages. When I finally got home to do the math, it turns out that six massages at $65 is in fact only 390. Disgraceful.
I could opt for the regular oil (Swedish style) massage on a table for $75 which would give me minimal savings, (30 euros overall ), but that was not why I was going to a Thai massage place, and how could I have known I was being sold a card on a different and more expensive massage of the kind I did not want, without being told? I was quite irritated but decided not to make a fuss.
I decided to try the oil massage with my husband on the weekend. After all that's what I'd paid for. Despite asking for more pressure, I have to say I had the most irritating experience of my life. The girl was barely touching my skin, could not have cared less, and it was a complete waste of time. All I got was greasy. She barely made contact with my skin. The gentlemen at the front desk who was obsequious when trying to sell me my card last week, seemed haughty and dismissive when I politely broached my disappointment. He demanded my card and stamped it saying "she must have been tired".
After prepaying, my experiences with customer service in the establishment (all from the owner) went downhill. Now I understand why it is never busy, and why there are no reviews. It seemed like my overpaid card was an affront when presented and like I was a second class citizen for having one. As usual the massage therapists got generous tips. The gentleman who owns at least four of these establishments in Paris (that I found- though they lie and tell you only two, I saw him picking up the takings at another that has the exact same design right down to the menu and pricing- that I was told was not related. Strange?!) is the typical old school - I can be rude and people will still come because its Paris. Hmm. Heard of the recession buddy? read more