I got a great massage on vacation, and you can too!

#VacationMassageGoals

To me, getting a massage on vacation can be really hit or miss.

I’ve had some of the best massages of my life: my first Thai massage in a tropical jungle in Phuket, my first Lomi Lomi massage tucked away in a lush residential oasis on Kauaʻi. I’ve also had some of the most disappointing massages imaginable.

We don’t talk about those.

A lackluster massage on vacation can be as dampening to the spirit as the recent summer weather we’ve been experiencing here in Atlanta.

¡No bueno!

So how do you find the gems in the not-so-rough?

It starts before you ever pack your suitcase.

Plan ahead! Skilled, talented massage therapists are often booked about a month out. I know planning a massage can feel tricky when you don’t even know your itinerary yet. But here’s the thing: you know YOU. You probably already know that you’re going to want a little recovery time after traveling, or that your body is going to be begging for some attention after a few days of exploring. The weather may be too hot to be outside in the afternoon or there may be midday tropical storms. Skip the siesta and schedule some restoration for your body, mind and soul.

Booking your massage for the first day of your trip can be a great way to start things off. It gives you something to look forward to, helps you settle into vacation mode, and sets the tone for the rest of your getaway.

And with just a little foresight, you’ll have the best selection of appointment times with the best therapists, rather than settling for whoever happens to have an opening.

At home, I would always suggest searching for recommendations from your inner circle. On vacation, you typically don't have any circle at all and what network you may have could be unreliable. Random hotel recommendations can be hit or miss. I would always begin with an internet search. We have access to an incredible amount of information right at our fingertips.

Here’s what I look for:

• A consistent 5-star rating

• Reviews that feel genuine and detailed

• Many years in practice

• Strong education and continued training

• Modalities that align with what I’m looking for

• A website and photos that feel authentic and grounded

On my recent trip to Vero Beach, the therapist I chose wasn’t at the top of the search results. In fact, she was buried pretty far down the page. But she had a perfect 5.0 rating and 30 years of experience. Most of her career had been dedicated to medical massage. All of her many reviews were intimate and positive, suggesting a large loyal clientele of regulars.

As I dug a little deeper, I discovered she’d trained at the same schools in Thailand where I had studied. She blended Eastern and Western approaches to bodywork, offered therapeutic cupping, and incorporated a neurostimulation device I’d been curious to experience.

Her website and photos were not glitzy, so I knew I would be getting the Real Deal, not a lot of fluff. She was in private practice and did not have frou-frou spa-like offerings and adornments. Every clue pointed toward someone who was passionate about their work. That all appealed to me.

Very simpático.

Only after I’d booked the appointment did I realize her office was just ten minutes from where I was staying. A nice bonus, but honestly, I would have driven much farther. When I find someone who is deeply committed to their craft, distance becomes pretty irrelevant.

Heather turned out to be everything I’d hoped for: incredibly skilled, passionate, nurturing, and refreshingly down-to-earth. She listened well, worked intentionally, and had the quiet confidence that often comes with decades of experience. It reminded me that the best bodyworkers aren’t always the easiest to find. They’re often busy taking care of the clients who already know what they have.

I got a great massage on vacation, and you can too.

A little research before your trip can make the difference between a forgettable massage and one of the highlights of your vacation. Your body has carried you through airports, road trips, adventures, long walks on the beach, and maybe even a few uncomfortable beds and pillows. It deserves more than just the closest spa with an opening.

Take a few extra minutes to look a little deeper.

You just might find a hidden gem.