Booking your first Thai massage can bring a few questions.
Which treatment should you choose? What should you wear? Can you ask for lighter pressure? And what happens when you arrive?
At Baan Sabai in Ghent, you do not need to arrive knowing everything about massage. A conversation about your comfort and preferences is a good place to start.
Here is how to prepare for your first visit.
Choose the experience you would enjoy
Traditional Thai Massage and Thai Oil Massage have different rhythms.
Traditional Thai Massage combines focused pressure, assisted stretching and controlled movement.
Thai Oil Massage uses oil for smoother, flowing movements, with less emphasis on stretching.
Neither is automatically the best choice for every beginner. Think about whether movement and stretching appeal to you, or whether you would prefer flowing massage strokes.
Our guide, Thai Massage vs Oil Massage: Which Should You Choose?, explains the differences.
Book before coming to the studio
Baan Sabai welcomes guests by appointment only. Walk-ins are not available.
Use the online booking page to choose your treatment, duration and an available time. Check your confirmation for the appointment details and booking conditions.
The studio is at Roeispaanstraat 17, 9000 Gent, near Gent-Sint-Pieters station, outside the busy historic centre.
Allow time for the journey so you can arrive without rushing.
What should you wear?
Wear something comfortable for your journey to the studio.
The clothing and preparation for a treatment can differ between Traditional Thai Massage and Thai Oil Massage. If you are unsure what to wear, contact Baan Sabai before your appointment for instructions specific to your booking.
You can also ask about changing arrangements and how privacy is respected during the treatment. There is no need to leave questions about personal comfort until the last moment.
There is no shower at the studio, so keep that in mind when planning the rest of your day.
Tell Chonlada what matters to you
Before the massage, tell Chonlada that it is your first visit.
You can discuss:
- Whether you prefer lighter or firmer pressure.
- Areas where you would like more or less attention.
- Movements or stretches you would rather avoid.
- Fragrance sensitivities or product allergies when booking an oil treatment.
- Any questions about the treatment or your privacy.
If you have an injury, are pregnant or have health concerns that could affect your appointment, contact the studio before booking to discuss suitability.
You do not need to diagnose your own tension or describe it in technical terms. Clear, simple preferences are helpful.
Your massage should not be an endurance test
You do not need to tolerate uncomfortable pressure to get the “full experience”.
Different people enjoy different levels of pressure. A treatment that feels right for one guest may feel too strong for another.
Speak up during your massage if you would like an adjustment. You can ask for lighter pressure, say that a stretch feels uncomfortable or request that an area be avoided.
Your preferences can change during the session, too. What matters is communicating them.
What does a full body treatment include?
A full body massage can give attention to several areas, such as the back, shoulders, neck, arms, hands, legs and feet.
The exact session depends on the treatment, its duration and your preferences. It does not mean every area receives exactly the same amount of time.
For more detail, read Full Body Massage in Ghent: What Does It Include?.
A personal first visit at Baan Sabai
Baan Sabai is an intimate studio offering individual appointments, professional Thai massage and personal attention.
You can come with questions, ask for adjustments and choose the experience that feels comfortable for you.
Chonlada’s commitment to her craft is reflected in our philosophy:
“We never stop learning and gaining experience in massage therapy.”
Your first visit is an opportunity to discover what you enjoy — without needing to get everything right before you arrive.
Book your first Thai massage in Ghent →
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need experience with Thai massage?
No. Tell Chonlada it is your first visit and discuss your preferences before the treatment.
Does Thai massage have to hurt?
No. You do not need to tolerate uncomfortable pressure or stretching. Tell Chonlada if you would like something adjusted.
What should I wear to my appointment?
Wear comfortable clothing for your journey. Contact the studio for preparation instructions specific to your chosen treatment.
Can I choose lighter pressure?
Yes. Discuss your preferred pressure before the treatment and ask for adjustments during the session.
Can I book a massage with my partner?
The current studio offers individual appointments. Book separate time slots or contact Baan Sabai to discuss your plans.
Can I arrive without a booking?
No. Baan Sabai works by appointment only. Check the online booking page for available times.
