How to Get a Foot Massage in Taipei, Taiwan

For the tired and weary traveler, nothing beats a soothing foot massage. There is no better place to find one than Taipei, Taiwan, where foot treatments are a national pastime. A mecca for Chinese medicine, Taipei is home to fantastic holistic treatments, including the foot massage.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• A map or guidebook of Taipei
• A local connection that speaks English OR
• Knowledge of basic Mandarin or Taiwanese

1. Find a great place near your hotel. Most concierges will have a referral for you, but when in doubt consult a guide book or do an Internet search.

2. Taxis are plentiful and inexpensive in Taipei, but the MRT subway system is one of the best in Asia. Ask your concierge if the spot you will go to is near an MRT station.

3. Know what treatments you want. Many foot massage spas will have English menus but you can have your concierge (or a Mandarin-speaking friend) write out what you would like. Most spas offer a variety of treatments that include reflexology, acupuncture and Chinese cupping. Be adventurous.

4. People in Taiwan are friendly and modest; they go out of their way to assist you with taxis and directions. Tipping is not a usual custom in Taiwan, but it certainly should be. Attempt to tip those who go out of their way, but don't be surprised if they refuse.

Tips & Warnings

• Use guide books and perform Internet searches on the spas you'd like to try.
• Use common sense any time you travel alone.
• Bring a Chinese dictionary or phrase book if you do not speak Chinese.
• Never raise your voice--even if something is uncomfortable. Losing face is looked down on terribly in Taiwan. Discreetly signal to any discomfort you may have.

Resources

• Frommers Taiwan
• Lonely Planet Taiwan