In 2012 I traveled to Pattaya, Thailand as a part of my trip to Asia.
On all the travel shows I’ve watched about Thailand, they kept talking about fish spas and I knew I had to go to one! These hardy little fish are called “Doctor Fish” which live and breed in the pools of some Turkish river systems and hot springs. While they temporarily help alleviate the symptoms of those with psoriasis, there is a lack of evidence on the efficacy as a simple fish spa.
We walked around the Pattaya market and found a quiet little spa located in the back of the pavilion. The booth had a set up of a large fish tank and elevated seating for you to dip your feet in. The owners first wipe down your feet (we suspect that the cloth is slightly scented to attract the fish) and guide your feet in the water.
I didn’t know what to expect but the feeling you first get is a strange sensation. The fish swarm to your legs and you feel dozens of little mouths nipping at your feet. At first it tickles and you wave your ankle around gently cause you’re not used to it and then you notice the little suckers hang on pretty tight!
I remember we paid around 80 bahts for 20 minutes (around $2.70 CDN) but because I was chit-chatting with their little girl and they weren’t too busy, they let us stay in for another 10 minutes. I can’t say it’s one of the most sanitary spa experiences, but I think it was worth the fun 🙂
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