This year, I plan on reviewing about 25 Spas around the world.
I’m staring off my review with Ylan Spa, which offers tui na – form of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) therapeutic massage. Typically, Tui na is not generally used for pleasure and relaxation, but rather as a treatment to address specific problem areas.
This was my first experience with tui na (pronounced “twee naw”), which means “pinch and pull.”
On arrival, there was plenty of parking in the small strip mall area. The staff was pleasant and we were immediately taken back to the couple’s massage room.
Ylan Asian Massage promotes their couples massage and table shower; but we opted just for the couples massage. I noticed the red lighting in every room, which is very unique and relaxing.
We were told to disrobe and lay down on our individual beds. We would have loved for them to ask us what our problem areas were, but the masseurs did not speak that much English. It was a surprise to both of us that soon a woman would be walking on Ken’s back as part of the massage. I did not notice until the massage started but there were two parallel polels attached to the wall above his massage bed. I couldn’t help but laugh and ask him if he was okay. He said only a few parts hurt a bit. I peeked over and noticed the masseur spent a decent amount of time massaging his butt – just know to expect that.
The masseurs were nice; however, they talked a little bit too much (to each other) for my liking, but eventually they eased into the silence. I typically have problems with my neck and so I appreciated the masseur spending 30 minutes on that. The traditional Chinese music was a bit louder than my comfort level but I eventually soothed into it. They used hot stones near the end of the massage to release all the tension.
Overall, I would give the massage a 3.5 out of five stars. I think it was a great experience, but I don’t think I would be jumping to go back. If there have availability last minute – count me in.
