Definitely read the threads, but here's a synopsis
[QUOTE=Fiend9753;4908450]Is there a decent guide on AMPs somewhere and I'm missing it?
I never went to AMP before. I used to car date but nothing recently, although I've been tempted and considered it again now. But I'm considering giving AMPs a try and don't want to have any issues. What are the fees / tips on average that I should expect and have with me? What do I do? Call to make an appointment, walk in? Is one preferred over the other?[/QUOTE]There is a ton of great intel on these boards and time invested reading it is time well spent.
In my experience:
* Some spas will appreciate an appointment while others are fine with walk-in. Walk-in means a potential wait if they're busy.
* Some spas will allow you to make an appointment with a specific therapist. Others will take your appointment and then try and pass off someone else as your requested therapist.
* Usually you will be greeted by the Mamasan, the boss of the house. Some smaller spas could have one of the therapists (the next one up, who will take care of you) greet you at the door, but usually you will see mamasan at some point.
* If you're not recognized upon arrival, you will be asked if you've been there before. The answer is always "Yes". Do your research here to ensure you can mention the name of at least one therapist that has worked there recently.
* Know going in if you want to spend 30 or 60 minutes. An hour is always a better deal, the going rates for the house fee for most places are $0. 4 for a half hour, $0. 6 for the hour.
* Even if you're freshly showered upon arrival, take the table shower if it's offered. Yes it takes some time, but you can often (but not always) gauge the therapist from how you're treated in the shower and everyone is usually a lot more at ease knowing you're freshly clean. Some spas will offer a sauna. That's up to you.
* You can also request a shower after your session (you have to leave time) and may be a good idea depending on your personal home situation. Cleanup at spas will vary widely from a wad of tissues to an alcohol spray and hot towel. But nothing beats a quick shower if odor-free cleanliness is important when you arrive home.
* Mutual touching during the massage is usually allowed. As with any civilian, read her body language and act accordingly. Money notwithstanding, this is still a relationship between humans and service is always impacted by how one is treated. Caressing and teasing is usually a good way to signal your interest in more on the flip, trying to jam your fingers inside her in the first two or three minutes of your table time might adversely effect the service you get later in your session, even if your tip has already been accepted.
* Tips vary by location and tip etiquette varies by location. Most of the city joints will take the house fee + full tip up front, which has its pros and cons. The biggest advantage is that everyone knows why you're there so there are no negotiations and a smooth transition on the flip to more fun. The con is you've already parted with your money if service isn't to your liking and your only leverage is to talk with Mamasan.
* Other spas will only take the house fee up front, so you'll negotiate with the therapist over tips after the massage is done, usually shortly after she flips you over. Going rates can be found all over this thread.
* Untill and unless you're an appreciated regular, your time is for one deeply satisfying smile. Smile early and you might not get all your time without asking. Some places will continue to entertain you until your time is up and regulars tend to get all the time they've paid for, but some spas are more aggressive in turning the room after you're done. Smiling.
* How things go when all is said and done will also vary. Some therapists will start straightening up the room which is your signal to get dressed, tip if not already done, take your bottle of water and go on your way. Others may help dress you afterwards, which is a nice touch and usually a sign that things went well on both ends of the encounter.
* You'll be offered a small bottle of water. If you're interested in becoming a regular, accept it, even if you don't want to drink it. You can always dispose of it later. Refusing hospitality in Asian cultures can be interpreted as insulting.
* Expect to be escorted to the exit. Sometimes by your therapist, sometimes by mamasan herself. With 9 VIP it's always mamasan who walks you out. Sometimes you'll be asked how things went, sometimes not. Regardless, this is an opportunity to raise any concerns you had with your therapist or your session. It's your money you spent, so if something didn't go well you should speak up. Be tactful and honest and mamasan will always correct it. If things were horrible, ask for some money back. It can be uncomfortable, but I've done it twice and I've not been refused. As with any other business relationship, if you treat everyone respectfully with your complaints things will go smoothly and you can come back to have a better experience the next time.
* If things aren't to your liking at any point, you can (and should) always ask for Mamasan. She won't know something is wrong unless she's told, so tell her. Bear in mind the spa may have other customers, so a discreet discussion is likely to get you a better outcome than making a scene, no matter how upset you may feel.
I'm sure other members can add to this list and you should read as much as you can here before you go.
Remember to relax and have fun, that's what it's all about!
