How I Became a (Sweaty) Thai Masseur
Welcome to Pai Massage and Training by Mr. Bann and Joy
If you’re in Pai, soaking up the hippie vibes and acting like you’re on a soul-searching retreat (even if you’re just here for cheap smoothies), let me tell you about a gem: Pai Massage and Training by Mr. Bann and Joy. Now, don’t expect anything fancy: no marble floors or Zen fountains. This place is cozy, humble, and bursting with charm.
It’s run by the powerhouse that is Pi Joy, a woman so full of energy and laughs that you’ll forget how hard Thai massage actually is. Her late husband, Mr. Bann, was the co-founder and a local legend himself. He passed away last year at the age of 87, leaving behind a legacy of healing hands and a school that feels more like a home. Alongside Pi Joy, there’s her trusty assistant, Pi Gai (yes, her name does mean “Chicken,” and no, she doesn’t take herself too seriously about it).
How It Works (Spoiler: It’s Intense)
Thai massage isn’t just a skill, it’s a full-body workout, for both you and whoever’s lucky enough to be on the mat. The course normally lasts five days, but here’s the beauty of it: Pi Joy is super chill about timing. Need extra practice before your exam? No problem. Want to finish early? Go for it. It’s like the choose-your-own-adventure of massage schools.
Each day, you spend about four hours deep in massage training. First, you receive a massage to understand how it feels (and let’s be honest, to wake up properly). Then you practice giving one, step by step. Thai massage is all about flow and precision, so there’s a lot to remember. It’s almost like learning a dance routine, except your “dance partner” is lying down and trusting you not to accidentally twist them the wrong way.
I took the course with two friends, which made it even more fun, and chaotic. We had Pi Joy and Pi Gai guiding us like strict-yet-hilarious coaches, correcting our every move. By the end of each session, our heads were spinning with steps, our arms were begging for a break, and our legs felt like we’d done a week’s worth of lunges.
The Real Magic: Becoming Part of the Family
Sure, the course teaches you how to give a killer massage, but the real magic? The people. From the first day, Pi Joy and Pi Gai make you feel like family. They’re always cracking jokes, sharing stories, and making sure you’re not just learning, but having a blast while you’re at it.
Lunch breaks became mini-parties where we all bonded over local food and laughter. By the time we passed the exam (barely, I was convinced I’d forget a step halfway through), we were inseparable. Even after the course ended, we kept hanging out, sharing meals, and just enjoying each other’s company.
It’s not every day you take a class and leave with not just a new skill but also a second family. I still feel like I have a home in Pai—and two incredible people cheering me on from afar.
Ready to Join the Fun?
If you’re ever in Pai, you’ve got to check this place out. Whether you’re looking to master Thai massage or just want a world-class massage from some of the best hands in town, Pai Massage and Training is where you need to go.
To arrange your visit, just shoot a message to the one and only Pi Joy on WhatsApp: +66 98-352-6061. She’s easy to reach, and who knows? You might just leave with a new skill, a certificate, and a whole new family to call your own.
