Where to get a massage: 6 questions to ask before your first appointment

“Where do you go for a massage?” gets asked on every forum — and the answers are usually a name and “she's great”. That helps, but it does not tell you how to recognise a good place yourself. Here are six questions worth asking before your first appointment, wherever you go. Our own answers are at the end of each one.

1. Who exactly will give me the massage?

A massage depends more on the person than on the name of the treatment. It is good to know who it will be and what they are good at — and, if someone suited you, to be able to go back to them.

With us every therapist has a profile on the therapists page, and you can book with a specific person.

2. Is there a conversation before the massage?

A good massage starts with questions: what bothers you, since when, whether a doctor has told you anything. If you lie down on the table without being asked anything, the massage will follow a routine, not you.

With us the conversation is the first part of every appointment.

3. Are prices clear in advance?

The price should be visible before you book, together with the length. Surprises at the till are not a good sign.

With us all prices are on the website — from €45 to €105, depending on the massage and the minutes.

4. What happens if I need to cancel?

Cancellation rules say a lot about a place. They should be written down, clear and reasonable.

With us cancellation is free up to 6 hours before the appointment.

5. Can I say it hurts, or that I want it firmer?

Pressure should change at your word, at any moment. A place where “it has to hurt to work” is working against your body, not with you.

With us the pressure changes as soon as you say.

6. What do the reviews say — and about what exactly?

Stars say little. Read the most recent reviews and look for specifics: does the therapist remember what they did last time, do people feel listened to, do they come back.

When to walk away

If they promise to cure something. If nobody asks about your health, but they offer you more treatments. If the price only appears at the end. None of these depends on the neighbourhood or the interior.

Frequently asked questions

How do I know a massage therapist is good before I go?

Read the reviews about the specific person, not just the place, and check whether you can book with them. Then judge after the first massage — your body will tell you more than any advert.

Is a more expensive massage a better one?

Not necessarily. What matters is the length, who is working, and whether it works for you. Compare price per minute and what is included.

Do I need to bring anything?

Usually not. Tell them in advance about health conditions, pregnancy or recent injuries.

Where we are

Mieli is inside Hotel Forum, 2 Sofiyski Geroy Str., Sofia. Open every day from 10:00 to 20:00, by appointment. If you like, ask us these six questions over the phone. English spoken.