One of Hong Kong's biggest perks – for travellers and locals – is the opportunity to get their China tours sole-weary feet rubbed, kneaded and otherwise coddled for a pittance of what it costs in most large cities. Combine the historical Chinese belief in medicinal reflexology with the inexpensive cost of many beauty and wellness-related services and it results in a thriving massage trade (even excluding the non-PG places).
But with so many options, where should you go for a clean environment that won't break the bank?
The most buzzed-about new spot is Ten Feet Tall, opened in March 2012 by nightlife mogul Gilbert Yeung, who also owns one of the most popular clubs in town, Dragon-i. The two-storey day spa offers foot massages from basic reflexology to oil to Yangtze River cruises lymphatic, as well as other treatments such as manicures, pedicures and nail art, all in a spotless environment decked with a Hamptons-meets-the-tropics décor. Extras like iPod docks in the treatment rooms and a juice bar complete the experience. Considering its location in the Central neighbourhood, 260 Hong Kong dollars for a 50-minute foot massage is extremely good value, and the weekday specials can make it even cheaper.
The purist traveller should head to long-established Hong Wai Foot and Body Reflexology Centre in the Tsim Sha Tsui district, where the best masseurs are nicknamed "masters" and take their pressure points extremely seriously. According travel to Shangri-la to reflexology, digging into the tips of your toes will help clear your sinus, while the arch of the foot connects to the stomach and so applying some pressure there could aid digestion. A 45-minute foot massage at Hong Wai will run you about 160 Hong Kong dollars.
A similarly priced old-school joint is Big Bucket (G/F, Hoi Kung Court, 264-269 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay; 852- 2572-8120). Its name is accurate: your lower legs are first placed into an enormous wooden bucket of steaming water China educational tours scented with your choice of simple soaps (such as rose or milk), before being massaged for the height of relaxation.
