I visited New Century Spa in Flushing on Friday, February 27th with my parents, and I wanted to share an honest review of our experience.
The visit was meaningful to me because the next day was my birthday, and instead of receiving a gift, I wanted to treat my parents to a relaxing spa day to show my appreciation. Since my parents enjoy the Queens area, I thought New Century Spa would be the perfect place. I made reservations three days in advance and booked two $100 packages for my father and myself (each including a 1-hour foot massage and 1-hour back massage). For my mom, I booked a 30-minute facial, a 30-minute foot massage, and a 1-hour back massage. Based on the pricing, the total should have been $350 before tip.
When we arrived, we were greeted and given slippers, then quickly directed to sit for our foot massages. However, we were still wearing our winter jackets because no one had asked us to remove them. I eventually had to ask if they could take our coats while the massage had already started, which felt rushed. I also noticed that no tea was offered, even though many videos online suggest tea is normally served.
To be fair, the foot massage itself was excellent--honestly one of the best I've had. However, the atmosphere didn't feel very relaxing. There was no music playing, and the staff were talking among themselves throughout the service, which made the environment feel less like a spa and more like a public space.
After the foot massages, my mom went ahead for her back massage while my father and I were taken to separate rooms for ours. During my massage, the therapist kept the towel over my back for most of the session. Near the end he briefly applied oil, then unexpectedly began cupping therapy. I had not requested cupping and even asked if it could be removed because it was uncomfortable, but I was encouraged to keep it on. Later I learned that cupping was an additional paid service.
When we went to pay, the total came out to $420 instead of the expected $350. The extra charge was explained as being related to the cupping service. My father had agreed to cupping for himself after being told it would cost extra, but no one clearly communicated that it would also be added to my service. My therapist simply asked if I wanted the same as my father, and I assumed he meant the same package we had already booked.
Overall, I want to be fair in saying that some parts of the experience were genuinely good, especially the quality of the foot massage. However, there were several issues that made the experience disappointing:
* Lack of organization when we first arrived
* No tea service despite it being advertised
* No robes offered as shown in promotional videos
* Staff conversations disrupting the relaxing atmosphere
* Confusing communication about additional services
* Being pressured to keep cupping despite discomfort
* Unexpected extra charges without clear explanation
I truly wanted this visit to be a relaxing experience for my parents, so I hope this feedback helps improve communication and overall service for future customers. read more