Thumbs up all around. Booked a fairly last-minute prenatal massage with Matthew, and enjoyed the experience so much that I booked a follow-up two weeks later just before baby arrived. Their online appointment scheduler made things so easy. The treatment space was warm and cozy; wonderful aromatherapy was the icing on the cake. Can't wait to get back in for some self-care once baby has a schedule that's a bit more predictable. I'm lucky enough to live within walking distance, but there is street and lot parking nearby. Don't let the meter prices ruin your zen! read more

Great massage that left me in a near coma I was so relaxed. That's my tip, don't plan anything more complex than a nap for afterwards. Very good technique and flow of motion. Parking's a bitch. read more

I was introduced to Palaquin massage through a Living Social offer and after a great massage at a great price, I signed up for their monthly service. I receive one 60 minute massage a month for $49 and each additional in the same month is only $39. If I could afford it, I would visit several times a week! The downtown location makes it convenient for me to get a massage during my lunch break or afterwork. Although as it is a downtown location, street noise must be expected. If total quiet is what you are seeking during a massage, this is not the place for you. As I work downtown, I have become slightly accustomed to the honking and wailing of sirens; so once the new age music starts playing and the massage begins I can zone out pretty quickly. The on-line booking system makes it easy to schedule and cancel appointments, but as others have mentioned they are very popular, so it helps to make appointments far in advance. Palaquin is so popular, that I wasalmost hesitant to sing their praises, as I feared it will become even harder to book an appointment; but after seeing all of the other glowing reviews posted here I see the cat is already out of the bag. I can only hope that a high level of business will ensure that Palaquin can keep offering high quality massages at fantastic prices and will stay in downtown Portland for years to come. read more

I went to Palaquin using a Living Social voucher, and they did NOT disappoint. I have been to a range of establishments ranging from the very basic to the super fancy spa environments. Palaquin is relatively no frills, but provides a comfortable and professional environment with kind and courteous staff. My LMT was Miriam Jones, and she provided the best, most effective massage treatment I have ever experienced. She listened to my list of problem areas and goals and then during the massage she seemed to intuitively and effectively find the major problem areas and really work on them. I was tender and a bit sore for about 2 days afterward, but also had improved range of motion and energy. I can honestly say I have never had a massage that made me say "I MUST go back to this person", but in the case of my experience with Miriam, that is EXACTLY how I feel. Massage is a personal service, so not every LMT/establishment will meet the needs of every person, but I feel very confident in recommending Palaquin and Miriam. read more

I had a great massage with Matt. I had him focus on my shoulders since a lot of my stress goes there and he helped release the tensions there. I felt a ton had been lifted off and felt so much better after. read more

I tried using a Living Social deal here and have had nothing but problems, I even spoke to a manager. it seems like they look down on anyone using a living social deal. They did not address my concerns and in the end i did not get a massage but they cashed in my certificate anyway. Bottom line- really unhelpful, rude and I WOULD NOT! read more

I've never had a massage before. I didn't know how you were supposed to be lying on the table. I didn't know you weren't supposed to wear socks. I thought it was like having a haircut - you know, chatty. This could have been such an embarrassing and awkward experience. But, thanks to Bethany, a super sweet person, it wasn't. It was great. I feel great. She started by talking me through what she was going to do and asked me about problem areas as well as areas I didn't want worked on. (Specifically, she asked if I had ticklish feet, which I thought was a joke. You guys, unlike in sitcoms, when you get an hour-long massage in real life, they do your arms and legs and feet!) And she let me know that she wouldn't be offended if, during, I asked her to apply less or more pressure, or asked her to stop. Once we'd gotten started, she kind of gently and indirectly let me know we didn't need to talk. Really excellent customer service, even if - is this a common reaction? - I felt a little grossly decadent. The work itself I thought was great. She concentrated quite a bit on my shoulders, but also on my palms, and calves, and did some rolling muscle thing that was amazing, and, best of all, did some magical things to my neck. The Living Social deal I purchased included a lavander scalp massage and a hot towel on your face, which was ok. At the end of it, in the waiting room, they pushed gently for their Perks program. If you do the Living Social deal, you can sign up for one massage per month for six months for $39/massage - and the first month's massage is free. I didn't mind the pushing. Can't wait for my next massage :) (The only real down-side to Palaquin is their appointment booking system. It's online, and they're booked months in advance, and it's not at all user-friendly to search for an open appointment.) read more

You will not regret getting a massage here. I have been visiting the same therapist for years and tried a new therapist. Will, is amazing! My body feels so good after leaving here for days and days. Very professional and easy to talk to. I love getting a fresh hot towel at the end of my massage for the excess oils. As a long haired gal, it's nice to not have to put my hair up, causing kinks... And of course, no greasy strands. Do your body a favor and schedule an appointment. read more

I was in Portland for the weekend and picked Palaquin out of a few Living Social deals. Not knowing Portland, it was a shot in the dark, but their Yelp reviews swayed me. And the more recent ones are very true. I think Will took over ownership of Palaquin awhile ago, so the older reviews may not be as relevant. The owner, Will, was my therapist and was fabulous. He has a wonderful, gentle yet firm touch that somehow gets very deep in there without you realizing it. It was a cathartic massage for me, which is not often the case. My whole body felt better for days. And helped clear my mind too. When I'm in Portland again, this will be a destination spot for me. If I lived there... well, I'd hope there was a frequent flyer plan. Their studio is upstairs in a nice building and very quiet. My boyfriend got a massage at the same studio with John D. He loved his as well and even stayed an extra 30 min to get some deep work done. And if that's not enough, their office manager Frank gave me some great tips of things to do and places to be in PDX. We had a great weekend in the city and the Palaquin crew is to thank for much of it. Thanks Will, John and Frank, see you next time. read more

OK right off the bat one of my favorite things about Palaquin is the time frame in which they are available to work on you. I work a graveyard shift and have a very busy schedule with my family and school, thus I need to get somewhere where I don't have to take two hours of my sleeping time to get a massage, as it totally defeats the purpose. I used an Amazon Local deal and booked the appt online with John. (Another plus, because if a studio is not open when I am awake I can't really schedule with them over the phone.) I can't believe how hard it is to find a place that's open before 10am but my bad for having an "alternative" schedule I guess. He totally took care of the issue I came in with, was open to feedback but not overly chatty, identified other problems that totally make sense that no other masseur has mentioned, and sent me home with an exercise to try for the hurt I was complaining about in the first place. It actually really helps. I feel like this speaks to his knowledge about the mechanics of the body in a very clear way. I think my main complement, however, is that he focused on what actually ailed me and only not the years of tension I have built up in other areas of my back, though he did hit plenty of those, too. I'm often at a loss when I explain the area I need work on but the massage addresses those bound up spots a hundred times more. Yay for personalized service! read more

I had an awesome experience here! I went on Groupon hoping to just have a good massage during finals, and didn't expect much more than just some muscle relaxation and focus on my sore spots. I was pleasantly surprised by Matthew! He gave an incredible massage, having me breath into specific parts of my body with clear instructions. He taught me about some of the things he felt in my spine, hips, etc and afterwards even gave me a mini-lesson on safe joint movements. They are incredibly knowledgeable about the human body here and really do want you to have an awesome experience and take care of yourself. The room was nice and warm, the music soothing, the blankets and sheets clean, and the aroma therapy wonderful (they even asked if I had any aversions to certain scents). The only downside is that they just moved into this space, so finding the correct room was a little challenging. Also, because it is a new space, you could hear them making appointments on the other side of the door and the ping of the elevator. I'm sure these kinks will be worked out with time and some white noise machines. Overall great experience, highly recommend Matthew. read more

The staff at Palaquin has been amazing! I have been getting massages there for over two years now and no matter how stressed or crazed my day has been I am in complete relaxation the second I walk in. They have been really great about working with my schedule and I can easily get a hold of someone when need be! The prices are reasonable and the monthly e-mails have helped with learning new stress reduction techniques and better overall health! read more

I have had several massages with Becca. Always when I have been in great pain due to re-occuring athletic related aggravations. This girl will kick any tight, irritated, kinked up spot to the curb with her hands. She is no joke. But she also listens. If you need her to back off in areas, she easily switches to a therapeutic style that leaves you speechless. Becca can do it all. read more

I have been very impressed with Palaquin. All of the LMTs I've had there have done a wonderful job, they really go out of their way to make sure they help you as much as they can and that you get as much out of the massage as possible. It is a calm, serene environment. They have great specials on pricing. Booking online is totally convenient. This place is at the top of my list and I have had professional massages at many different sites, Palaquin is my far the best! read more

Seeing all of the great reviews online I was very excited for my appointment. Very disappointing massage all around. My massage therapist seemed like she may have still been in training, as her technique was very questionable. Additionally, I was there in February and the room was freezing. Seeing I was covered in goosebumps, she layered me in two heavy blankets and profusely apologized; explaining that because they were located in an office building there was no heat in the building on weekends. Seems like they would invest in space heaters at a minimum to keep clients a bit more comfortable. Would not return. read more

I have seen Becca on and off for the last two years. Becca is very friendly, professional and has a determination to make you feel better quickly. I highly recommend her! I love the location as well, you feel like you are getting a massage in the clouds at her space. I have also been on site with her for events and she is for sure the one to call for on-site massage at your office or event! read more

I was in town on business and used Yelp to find this place. Miraculously, they not only had an opening for my poor, aching, travel-weary body but they had a deal on for a $45 massage. Being from Vancouver (BC), you can't get a massage for under $90, so this was a stellar deal. Megan (hope I spelled that right, there could be silent h's or z's in there for all I know) was my massage therapist. Megan ... was amazing. I have never had such a great massage in my entire life. I'm not kidding when I tell you that I actually could NOT get up after an hour of massage, a hot face wrap and a scalp massage. I had to lie there for a moment and compose myself. Seeing the monthly program they have for massage makes me want to move to Portland even more! Highly recommend this place. The staff were all really nice and the office is really serene and quiet. I will be back for a massage EVERY time I am in Portland, no question! I also love the online booking system. so much easier! read more

During my stay in Portland, I had to get a massage after a long day of hiking. The massage was nice but it didn't feel satisfying. It was relaxing but not therapeutic. The price was super high for what it was. The massage wasn't fantastic or special. read more

Wow- I'm reading such great reviews and its just making me much more disappointed. I have NEVER written a review on yelp before, but I felt compelled to write this time. I was gifted a massage to Paloquin by a good friend ( purchased as a Living Social deal). I was greeted in a very friendly way, offered tea, and the general atmosphere at the studio was nice. My massage, however, was pathetic. I've had a fair number of massages in my past, and this may have been the worst. The massage therapist was very sweet, and for that reason, I didnt complain when I left. The fact is, she was just very unskilled and obviously lacked experience. She had absolutely NO technique just gave me what I call the "fluff and buff". I left thinking, "you know what I really need, a MASSAGE!" I was just really disappointed. I understand that the living social deal is going to create appointments for the lesser booked therapists, but I still expect to feel relaxed when I leave. Obviously, from the other reviews, there are good therapists here. I'll just read the reviews before I book a massage anywhere next time! Thumbs down read more

I learned about Palaquin from a Living Social voucher but ended up buying a full membership by the time I left! The massage itself was great, and they add a few twists (lavender temple rub = awesome) that makes it clear they know how to de-stress people and not just simply make them feel & smell good for one hour. This makes all the difference to me -- true professionals who know what they're doing with my body over the long haul. read more

Great massage! I was in town for 10 days and fit in 4 massages, I can now move in ways that I have been extremely limited for the last 2 years without major pain. I would highly recommend this business. read more

I love this place. I was first introduced thru a Livingsocial deal and have been going there since. Their tables are heated and everyone talks in a whisper (isn't this a common theme at all massage places). Their booking systems is really easy. You can call or book online, making it really convenient for people like me who don't like communicating on the phone. Their located across from the food cart pod on 10th and Alder. It can be tough finding parking on Timbers' game days, but if you're stressed out the massage is perfect! read more

I used the LivingSocial deal, and I wasn't expecting that much. But we got there late, and they were super cool about it (even after I tipped my tea on the floor; I guess I was more stressed out than I thought!). And it was better than massages I've paid full price for--she found all my sore spots, no wrenching my shoulders or bad knee, hot towel and scalp massage at the end with a little mint on my temples to go. Pretty sweet. read more

The therapist is wonderful, I have enjoyed the massages here. They are professional and understanding of your condition.

Had a great prenatal massage here last night!!! Favorite part is the ending with the hot towel and scalp massage. Very relaxing and enjoyable. Just what the dr ordered!!! Thanks Palaquin. read more

Worst experience I've had with a Portland merchant! I purchased a deal off of living social and booked the appointment online with my voucher number. My appointment was cancelled as I did not provide a credit or debit card (why would I - I'm paying with my voucher). Given the amount of security risks involved with providing credit cards to third party companies (I paid for my visit with living social) I was not eager to provide a credit or debit card to someone that was simply going to keep it on file indefinitely. Especially, when the company they use for online scheduling (appointment-plus as it says on the bottom of their website) was given an F by the Better Business Bureau! I responded to the cancellation and asked again that they honor the agreement and book my appointment. No one responded until after I sent 2 emails and made a phone call. Finally, a response! But, no luck there either! The party was absolutely not interested in honoring the agreement, but only interested in enforcing the policy of collecting a card. She explained that they had created this policy because some people were cancelling last minute or not showing up to their appointments, and now they would charge someone a fee for doing that (this is above and beyond what you paid for the voucher). So, they admit they created the policy after I purchased the voucher but will not honor the voucher I purchased under the terms, conditions, and fine print with which I agreed to purchase it (none of this said anything about the credit card policy - nor could it have, since it wasn't created until after I purchased my voucher). Interestingly, when I looked at the other reviews for the merchant I noticed one reviewer stating that Palaquin had to reschedule because an employee got sick. I sure hope they gave that client a credit on their card since Palaquin couldn't follow through. But, I'm pretty confident they didn't, choosing instead to only punish customers for events that occur in their life and not their own company. Fortunately, Living Social refunded my purchase (Yay Living Social!). What is most surprising is that a massage company has simply no sense of fairness. I think most people would agree that it is only fair to honor the agreement purchased as is, and not to create additional policies or rules after a purchase that make it more difficult to redeem that purchase. More importantly, I'm fairly certain this behavior isn't lawful either. You cannot sell a product under one set of terms and then unilaterally change the terms after the product has been purchased. If you have problems as well, maybe an email to the Oregon Consumer Protection Agency will get this merchant to start being fair. I acknowledge they have a right to create whatever policies they want, but it is not right to make them up as they go and after a customer has already made a purchase. read more

I was compelled to update my review after a stellar massage last weekend. Originally, I was scheduled for a Saturday but my therapist was ill so I needed to reschedule. They got me in the very next day at a really convenient time with my new favorite massage therapist, Bethany. The massage was so perfect that I was certain she'd gone over time! I've been doing the Perks program for about a year. Basically, you can get 1 massage/month for $49 and every additional massage that month is $39. It's a great program. I schedule a block of massages for a few months at a time. Scheduling can be done online - another great convenience. One of the nice things about Palaquin is they have so many different massage therapists to choose from. You might have to have three or four different massages before you find the perfect one for you - or you could find her right off the bat. I can't wait to go back for next month's massage! read more

Used a Living Social deal here for an hour massage that was much needed. The atmosphere was extremely calm and quiet, for all those nerve-wracked people I suppose who visit Palaquin. The massage was wonderful, just the right amount of pressure -- she asked twice during the massage to make sure. read more

This is a great little secret hidden on 10th Avenue in downtown Portland. The staff is really nice, and the massages are excellent. Thanks guys! read more

Great place. Small, quiet, welcoming. Friendly, talented and communicative staff. I got my wife and I a Daily Deal from Living Social and we loved it. They have great prices! The Daily Deal was a great deal, the Yelp deal is a great deal, and you can start a membership at Palaquin where you get massages at great prices. My only complaint is that you make your reservations online. You can't talk to anyone. And the online process is kind of annoying and not as efficient as it could be. I just wanted to ask a staff person to do it. But for a lot of people, they will appreciate the online process more that I did. See for yourself. read more

Very disappointed! I felt so rushed the entire time, then she only gave me 40 minutes massage instead of 60. Though she offered a coupon for the next visit, sorry I didn't think I would be coming back. read more

My massage was just what they said it would be. I've been loose all week since. Recommend deep tissue and relaxation massage.

Want your tension melted away with firm, kneading pressure to loosen those tight muscles? This is your spot. Yes, aromatherapy and special oil and skin runs are relaxing too l, but for me they never really dig in enough to loosen up the trouble spots the way a quality Swedish does. I've tried massage all over town, and this was the first to offer exactly what I needed at an affordable price. read more

Palaquin Massage is relaxing, therapeutic, professional, and calming. I have been seen for general stress relief, sports injury, muscle pulls, and post surgical therapy. Palaquin did an excellent job at meeting all needs I have had. I highly recommend them. read more

Just used my Living Social voucher for an hour-long massage. Courtney was great. She was quiet yet strong. I talk all day long at work, so I'm not a fan of frivolous chit-chat when I'm trying to relax. She followed my new client intake form and focused on my head, neck and shoulders. Palaquin's space overall is cozy, but because it is located right downtown, it was pretty noisy from traffic, dump trucks, horns, etc. Still, Courtney did such a great job that I eventually tuned that out. Last, parking was pretty easy to find, but I wish they validated for Smart Park. Thanks, Palaquin - I'll be recommending you to my friends and co-workers! read more

I had an excellent massage at Palaquin with Teresa. She did an amazing job and was very responsive to feedback. I could tell that she took the time to actually read the new patient information I filled out prior to my appointment and she asked me questions. The ambiance at the place is very relaxing. Israel in reception was perfectly polite and helpful. They got back to me very quickly, helped me set up an appointment with ease and answered all my questions. I had an amazing experience here. I recommend Palaquin very much! read more

Nice and relaxing! Just what I wanted/ needed. I walked in with my sholders so tense and came out stretched and relaxed. Thank you!

i booked a massage after landing the living social deal. once the masseuse saw my voucher, she was not thrilled. I told her how excited I was because I'd never had an hour massage, just the pay-by-the-min chair ones, and i was in deep need of relaxation. She left the room, and came back with only about 45 mins to massage. This already made me a bit on edge, but then she focused mainly on my legs even though I had no problem areas there. When I was just about to say something, the massage was over, and my back was hardly touched, and i was shorted time. I would not go there with the discounted price, as the ladies there are probably sick of seeing them and getting under-tipped? That being said, it was clean and the masseuse was nice enough. I just rarely get a chance to treat myself and left feeling guilty having spent so much for little return. read more

The massage was good. I was going in right after the Portland Marathon so I was ready for a nice strong massage. The masseur would not stop talking though and for me that is not a relaxing environment. Trying to be polite I responded and so maybe that was encouragement but I would rather not talk or be talked to (unless I am in pain or need something different) while getting a massage. Also, I had been going to physical therapy for IT band work and the masseur continued to tell me that the PT was not doing something right or should do something differently to really help. read more

Introduced through a living social voucher, as I set out on my search to find a good masseuse... There are plenty here, always a little different, but I always float out of here. Drawbacks have been, it is definately hard to schedule, they get booked out quick, and it's downtown; parking can be a pain. However, they have always been very pleasant and workable. I appreciate their sevice and the price is right. read more