When searching for the best Traditional Thai Massage in the Lower Mainland, two names often stand out: Smile Thai Wellness in downtown Vancouver and Lanna Thai Spa in Burnaby. Both offer a gateway to ancient healing, but they cater to very different wellness needs.
Whether you are a local resident or a visitor looking for a rejuvenating escape, here is how these two top-rated destinations compare.
Location & Atmosphere: City Hub vs. Boutique Sanctuary
Smile Thai Wellness is located in the heart of downtown Vancouver on Robson Street, making it a popular choice for tourists and those working in the city center. It is known for its beautiful installations and a bustling, high-traffic environment.
In contrast, Lanna Thai Spa offers a Boutique Experience. Located conveniently in South Burnaby near Metrotown, we prioritize a more personalized, quiet, and intimate setting. If you want to escape the “daily chaos” and find a hidden corner where time slows down, our serene ambiance is designed specifically for you.
Service Comparison: What’s on the Menu?
Both spas provide high-quality treatments, but their specialties differ slightly:
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Smile Thai Wellness: Offers a broad range of services including Swedish and deep tissue massages, alongside signature packages like the “Lily” treatment.
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Lanna Thai Spa: We specialize in the “Lanna” (Northern Thailand) tradition, focusing heavily on the “Yoga Massage” aspect of Thai healing to help you regain lost flexibility. Our Thai Combination Oil Massage is a client favorite for those who want both deep relaxation and active muscle recovery.
Why Guests are Switching to Lanna Thai Spa
While Smile Thai Wellness is a well-established urban center, many clients are now choosing Lanna Thai Spa for several key reasons:
1. Expertise in Stretching
Our therapists are highly trained in rhythmic compressions and the complex stretching movements of traditional Nuad Bo-Rarn. We don’t just offer a massage; we “do your yoga for you” to release deep energy blockages.
2. Personalized, Professional Care
Because we are a specialized boutique center, we offer tailored treatments that address your unique physical needs, such as “tech neck” or chronic lower back pain.
3. Exceptional Value
At Lanna Thai Spa, we focus on making long-term health affordable. We offer Exclusive Massage Packages (such as 5-session bundles) that allow our regulars to enjoy premium treatments at a discounted rate.
The Verdict: Which Should You Choose?
If you are already downtown and need a quick, high-quality session in a busy environment, Smile Thai Wellness is an excellent choice.
However, if you are looking for a deeply meditative, highly personalized, and authentic northern Thai experience without the downtown hustle, we invite you to visit us at Lanna Thai Spa.
Experience the Lanna Difference
Ready to see why we are Burnaby’s top choice for authentic wellness?

