Spa Cruising

Another common place for cruising are the spas. This does not refer to bath houses or massage parlors that have the word "spa" in their name, but to your regular spa that offers a menu of massage treatments, body scrubs, oils and whatever else, and have separate areas for men and women. These spas have a wet floor, or an area where the showers, hot and cold jacuzzi and dry and wet saunas are located, giving rise to and inducing cruising. These areas have turned into virtual bath houses without the cubicles. Towel clad men roaming around, eyeing each other, sitting stark naked in the jacuzzi or in the sauna, it's up to you to make the most of it.

Without the facilities of a gay bath house, does sex happen in places like these? It's up to your imagination. Just don't get caught.

In some of these spas, you can choose to have a male or female therapist. Some male therapists are known to offer "extra," but only if you have your massage in a private room and not in the common area, obviously. It would not be a surprise if these masseurs offer some "extra" to female clients.

To name a few of the known cruisy spas in Manila:

1. City Lifestyle Spa and Fitness Center (City Lifestyle Building, 80 Timog Avenue corner Tomas Morato, Quezon City, +632 372 4722)

Reputed to be the one where some of the masseurs offer "extra services," similar to what you'd expect in a gay massage parlor, City Lifestyle Spa is quite popular. They have a gym as well. Male therapists available.

2. Wensha Spa (Beside Legend Restaurant, in front of World Trade Center, CCP Complex, Buendia Ave, Pasay City, +632 832 0515; or Timog Avenue corner Quezon Avenue, Quezon City)

The only spa open 24/7, Wensha has two branches and offers an eat-all-you-can buffet already covered by your fee, though not offered all day. Because their prices do not differ much from other spas, expect the food at the buffet not to be the best you can get. The branch in the CCP complex is relatively new and must still be clean and well-appointed. The branch is Quezon City is very rundown with gaudy interiors. I heard a renovation is in the plans. Male therapists available.

3. SM Kenko Sauna (Roxas Boulevard corner Sen. Gil Puyat Ave, Pasay City, +632 536 7777)

Calling themselves "the first authentic health spa for you and your family," Kenko is part of Net World Hotel, a Japanese owned boutique hotel. At Kenko, you will find a lot of Japanese and Korean clients. This place used to offer Japanese style baths. Male therapists available.

4. Sanctuario (three branches, including one outside Manila)

A well publicized and internationally marketed spa, Sanctuario has won a few awards for its promotion of Hilot, a Filipino chiropractic therapy. Since its owner is gay, expect well-designed and elaborate interiors. Sanctuario is also known as the most cruisy of spas, with one branch located close to Manila's gay central nightspot. Male therapists available (some very good looking ones, I've heard).

5. The Spa (several branches)

The largest chain of spa in Manila, The Spa is among the priciest spas in Manila with prices just lower than the five star hotels. You can probably find one close to you, even in a few malls. Being pricey, expect clean surroundings, a relaxing ambiance and complete amenities. The relaxing ambiance will dissipate once the crowd builds up in the late afternoons and early evenings. In other words, the place has turned into a cruisy male meat market. Female therapists only.

6. Olympia Reflexology Center (The Olympia Tower, Makati Avenue, Makati City, +632 817-9509) Female therapists only.

7. South Bay City Spa (Penthouse, Airport Global Plaza complex along MIA Road, across Coastal Mall +632 851 0332, +632 407 6621) Female therapists only.

8. The Ritz Spa (1614 Adriatico Street, Ermita, Manila) Female therapists only.

Cruising in Manila

Manila’s cruising is not far different from other cities in the world. The usual cruising places you’d attempt elsewhere will probably work in Manila.

1.     Gyms

Gyms are a hot bet of gay cruising. Some cruise without hesitation, only to get in trouble with management if caught or if the object of the cruise is not gay and terribly offended. Fitness First and Slimmers World are the two largest chain gyms in Manila. You’ll find Fitness First in some of the busiest malls. Slimmers World was the first chain of fitness centers though you will not find them at malls but at the fringes or right next to a mall. Gold’s Gym has few branches in select malls. Don’t be surprised even if the no name gym next to corner store can be a cruising spot.

2.     Cinemas

 This does not refer to gay cinemas but mainstream movie houses. In the evening screenings, particularly the last show, you’ll notice lots of guys walking around, standing near the cinema doors or in the hallways and walk ups, or going in and out of the rest rooms. The larger cinema houses are obviously more opportunistic of cruising. Noted cruisy cinemas are the SM Malls like Megamall, North Edsa and Sta. Mesa, and Robinsons Malls like Galleria and Ermita. Particularly, Robinsons Galleria has a cinema that exclusively screens independent films, most of which are patronized by the art and gay public. It gets relatively crowded when a “gay indie” is on schedule.

3.     Public Restrooms

Take a pee and you might just get off. The restrooms in the MRT/LRT and in the malls are notorious. Public restrooms in office buildings in Makati are also known for cruising, particularly Enterprise Center on Ayala Avenue. Gateway Mall in Cubao has a huge restroom in the cinema level, which is always crowded. Well, the other restrooms in this mall are for pay, but that is just one reason. Take a pee in a urinal there and watch as the man in the next urinal attempt to take a peek at your wad.

4.    Malls

Filipinos like malls because it free air conditioning and clean restrooms. Aside from the cinema and the restroom, you can just cruise the mall. Notice those who stand or rest on railings that circle the escalators or overlook the atrium or activity center or to the lower floors. How about those that shop in the underwear section of Bench? They might just be cruising just like you.

More in future posts.

Safety Please

December 1 was declared World AIDS Day, a day to spread awareness about the disease. Let's all be careful out there. Though this is site that relates to cruising and massage parlors, please don't stop taking precautions. The HIV and AIDS numbers in the Philippines are increasing at a faster pace than before. Be Safe!

Rates

Massage parlor rates can vary from P250 to a high of P700. This refers to the basic in-house rates and does not include additional services like Turkish Bath, Body Scrub, or Aromatherapy. You kinda wonder what the difference will be between a center that charges the low end versus one that is on the upper end. If you are new to the center, request a visit to the cubicles. Get a feel of the center. How's the air conditioning? Are the mattresses sturdy or smelly? If you are going for a Turkish bath, what does the shower look like? Some places are definitely better than others and some on the high range of the pricing do not have much difference with those in the low end. Remember, these prices do not include the tip that you will pay directly to the masseur. Use your best judgment. Take a tour of different places.

Let's be wise and careful out there.

The EROD-TM Triangle

Whatever is your mood or fancy, the E. Rodriguez Jr Ave (EROD) and Tomas Morato (TM) area will keep you happy. There is a club, a bath house and a massage for men.

Club Pink Republic - the club
Fahrenheit Cafe - the bath house
Rondalle Spa - the massage

Though the these place may not meet whatever standards you may have, this triangle of a location can, at least, please you with the option. Have fun!

Club Pink Republic

They claim to have just finished renovation. This is the newest club in the scene. Funny though that is located quite close to definitely not new bath house, Club Bath. Club PR, as they like to call themselves, is a welcome addition to the only two other gay clubs in Manila, Club Government in Makati and Bed in Malate. This is a welcome addition as Quezon City gets to have its own gay club. Northeners can now easily satisfy their impulse urges for some clubbing fun. Club Pink Republic is located on Tomas Morato Avenue near the corner of E. Rodriguez Jr Ave in Quezon City. It is beside a Shell gasoline station.

Equanimity Spa Has Moved

I thought it had closed down. I was close by to where I knew it was located and was utterly disappointed to see a "For Rent" sign on the door. Its sign was gone and the front looked like a abandoned building. I texted the owner to wonder what happened. Where did my favorite masseur go? He replied and said, "we will never close."

They've moved to Kamias Street, closer to EDSA, and in front of a BPI Family Bank. They're quite close to Mr. Earth Spa, which is walking distance from EDSA. Their website is not fully updated but the address is stated as 100A Kamuning Rd, QC (in front of BPI Family Savings Bank and Ten Four Cassava Cake near Edsa). Have a good one!

Freelance Masseurs

Numerous freelance masseurs advertise their services on the net, in e-groups and in blogs. There are two blogs you can check out, The Inner Circle and Spaquarium. Both have pics and contact numbers of the freelance masseur of your choice. The former has a listing of various massage parlors in Metro Manila. Just be careful of meeting up with a masseur not connected with any spa or massage clinic. Some of them could be hustlers or could cheat you out of an agreement. In both websites, they seem to have the same listing of masseurs (even the same series of pics) so it seems that both sites might be run by the same individual. I notices though that the masseurs featured are those that have been advertising their service for quite sometime. It might be safe to assume that these masseurs are, uhm, safe. No guarantee on their looks and service quality. Web pics can be deceiving and service ratings are subjective. Proof is that most masseurs get mixed reviews.

Spa Mondialle

A new spa has arrived. Well, at least it's new to me. This is the first I have heard of it and their website doesn't say much. I called them for directions and they said that they are Scout Reyes Street near the corner of Quezon Avenue. Unfamiliar with the Scout area of streets in Quezon City, I asked further and they said that the main landmark is the Mercury Drug store in the Delta intersection, which means they are around the intersection of Quezon Avenue, Timog Avenue and West Avenue, which used to be called the Delta Circle. Anyway, I have not seen or tried the place so you are on your own here.

Kinetic Spa

They have been posting adverts on the net for a little over a week right now. I saw their tarpaulin sign while I was riding on the LRT2 line. Yes, its a tarpaulin sign that they are using. Its cheap so that should say something about the place. It's a new massage parlor. It lists its address as: 796 Aurora Blvd. Cubao, Quezon City with Tel No. 4747317. In terms of landmarks, it registers as front of Autobus Terminal, near Partas Bus Station. If you are coming from EDSA corner Aurora Blvd., Kinetic Spa will be on your left side. This locations looks like it is just across another spa, Uhma Watu.

Rondalle Spa

Not sure if this is a new spa though the name sounds familiar. There used to be more than one massage parlor in this area of Quezon City, but they've closed down or moved. Rondalle Spa is a familiar name that's why I'm not sure if this place is new or just moved from somewhere else. I don't recall there being a spa in this particular building. You can check out their website.

Another Massage Parlor Bites the Dust

I heard that Revivir Spa has closed down. Too bad. They had a masseur that does a very good shiatsu.

Again, its best to call up these places first before visiting so you are not wasting a trip.

Notes on Massage Parlors in Manila

Massage Parlors in Manila

Manila Gay Guide's notes on massage parlors.

1. Some massage parlors have their masseurs in a room where you can view them through a glass window and select which masseur you fancy. The manager usually stands next to you and starts pointing out the good ones, e.g. the one in white at the left does a good extra, the one wearing the singlet is great at massage and extra, the fair skinned one standing at the corner is big, etc. The aquarium, as this set up is called, allows you to view the masseurs without discomfort since it is assumed that the masseurs cannot see you (just don't stick your cheeks on the glass.) You can take your time and even do a ini-mini-miney-moe among your shortlist. All this time the manager is pressuring you to make a selection and continues pushing particular masseurs. Sometimes, the manager may push a masseur who does not get many customers, or a masseur who gives a cut to the manager. Basic rule is choose a masseur you feel you will be happy with.

2. The massage parlors that do not have an aquarium will present the masseurs to you in the reception area. This system is called "the show up." The masseurs come out one at a time, introduce themselves with a handshake, then leave. After you've met all masseurs, the manager will ask which masseur you like. In this system, you have to keep in mind the masseur your fancied when you shook hands. If you can't decide or couldn't tell because of the quick handshake, then the manager can line up the masseurs in front of you, then make the selection.

3. Take your time in choosing. Do not feel pressured. You can always say, "Thank you. I'll come back some other time." Its best to get your money's worth and have no regrets.

4. If you are new to the massage parlor and are not sure about the place, you can ask to see their rooms or cubicles first before selecting the masseur. Some massage parlor facilities are better than others, so if you don't like the place, or find their prices too expensive for what they have, then don't be ashamed to say, "No, thank you. I'll come back some other time." You can also make up some excuse like "my wife just called" or "I just realized I don't have any cash on hand." But if you like the place, then proceed to select the masseur. You can even be choosy and select the specific room you are comfortable with.

5. Some masseurs perform their services better than others. This is all relative but don't be afraid to complain to the manager not just about bizarre or awful experiences but even about the facilities. Sometimes, this will get the masseur into trouble. If you're nice, don't get the masseur into trouble. Just say the service was okay.

6. It is always best to negotiate a price with the masseur for "extra." Extra refers to activities outside of the massage, read: sex. Discuss how far he will go, what he will do and what he will not do. Being bottomed, performing oral sex, and other specific activities are better spelled out during this negotiation stage. Better still, ask the manager that you are looking for a masseur that does specific acts that you are looking so that the right masseur will be given to you.

Body scrub and turkish bath

Some massage parlors offer body scrub and turkish bath, for an additional fee, of course. A turkish bath simply means that the masseur will give you a bath. Imagine a mother giving bath to a small child. In a body scrub, the masseur will apply a scrub solution all over your body, and/or use a loofa and some liquid soap. Services vary and amenities differ. Check out their shower facilities where the bath will take place. Ask them if they provide slippers and a towel. Make sure you know what you get for that extra cost.

Take home services

Massage parlors have a special rate for "take home." This refers to being serviced by the masseur outside the massage parlor, like at home or at a hotel/motel. The rate is usually higher than the in-house service and a transportation fee is added depending on the location of the home or motel. It is possible to avail of home service by phone, though, in this case, you will not be able to see the masseur for yourself. Of course, you can always ask for your regular masseur, if he is available.

Sharing your phone number.

If you call the massage parlor's cell phone, your phone number is registered on the phone. They will occasionally call or text you on "slow nights" or for special offers or discounts when they need to pick up business. Please be aware of the risks in them getting hold of your number.

Availing of a home service through phone will definitely require you to share your number. Having your phone number protects the massage parlor from crank callers who call numbers but provide a bogus address or who don't show up at the motel.

For the motel service, the massage parlor may require you to check in first so that you have a room number on hand. The massage parlor will call the hotel and check that the room number belongs to you, or ask to transfer the call to your room. The parlor will then ask you to advice the front desk that you have a guest coming up to your room. Again, this protects the massage parlor and the masseur from pranks.

Some masseurs are quite friendly and would want to exchange phone numbers. Again, be aware of the risk of sharing your phone number. Expect to get various text messages ranging from a simple greeting to an offer for massage. Some masseurs will proposition their services outside the massage parlor without the knowledge of the manager. It is up to you if you want to take on this proposition. Most masseurs get fired from the massage parlor if they find out he is "freelancing" especially with a customer he had previously serviced at the parlor.

The masseur may also contact you to inform you that he has transferred massage parlors. He may also share your number with his friends who are moonlighting as masseurs or are currently not connected with any massage parlor. So, your number may get around among the masseur community.

Braveheart Men Spa now Braveart

This is an update on my previous post on Braveheart. It's now called Braveart and its sign has changed. It's no longer a subtle sign and quite loud. It definitely stands out at night and can't be missed. The sign, with letters in white against a deep blue background, is similar to some other massage parlors, specifically Manhunt in Cubao and Universal on Quezon Avenue. Maybe they have the same owners. I'm not sure if the interiors have changed, or if there website is updated.

Fahrenheit Cafe and Fitness Center

This is one of the more popular bath house destinations in Metro Manila. There is a queue usually and the crowd is quite varied, but mostly young due to its affordable entrance fee. You may find some college students inside. Since this is the only bath house in Quezon City, don't be surprised with the traffic along its narrow hallways. At times, you mind find yourself in a desperate search for an unoccupied cubicle, and, worse, one with a working lock. They've posted that some renovation has just been completed. That should be welcome considering that it's run down, dirty, smelly, and sweaty, with the showers always running out of soap. Some people bring their own bar of soap, just in case. The place is often full, even on Sundays. On some occasions, Fahrenheit mounts a show as an added come on. They could be strip shows, male bikini contest, or trans gender beauty contest. Address is 1204 E. Rodriguez Sr. Avenue, Barangay Mariana, New Manila, Quezon City. Telephone numbers are +63 918 9008002, +63 918 9008007 or +63 2 725 6699. Visit their website for more info.

Queeriosity Palace

The newest bath house in Manila, Queeriosity Palace is less than a year old at the time of this post. It is located not far from the oldest bathhouse in Manila, Club Bath. Both are in Pasay City. I have not been to this one since news spread on the internet that it was raided by police just weeks from its opening. The news has been confirmed and is true. They're still in business and continue to self-promote on internet groups with specials, discounts and the like.

Address is at 1946 F.B. Harrison Road, Pasay City. Telephone number is +63 2 5278337. Visit their website for more info.

Strip Clubs

Numerous strip clubs can be found in Metro Manila. Among them are:

1. Dreamboyz - in Cubao, Quezon City. Address isn 774 Aurora Blvd corner Boston Street near Betty Go-Belmonte LRT station. Contact +63 921 6650991

2. King's Klub - Contact Jess +63-915-998-6884

Hilom Spa Center

This relatively new massage place is quite a breath of fresh air. Its interiors are decorated with taste and it has a clean and relaxing ambiance. The masseurs are in costume, which implies decency and "no hanky-panky" mood. In fact, a printed sign at the reception states, "We do not allow prostitution in this establishment," or something of that sort. Of course, what goes on behind close doors is really up to you and the therapist. Hilom is the top of the list when it comes to interiors: classy and very spa like. They even provide a robe and draw string jammies, like most regular spas. Their mattress covers are in black.

Address is at 2nd Floor, Moomba Plaza Mother Ignacia Ave corner A. Roces Ave Quezon City. This is close to the intersection of A Roces and Quezon Boulevard. The place is easy to spot since it is on the second floor of a mall like structure which can't be missed. Restaurants and bars in the same building and vicinity make for a very lively place at night, which may make you uncomfortable if you seek discreetness and are avoiding the possibility of bumping into some friend, acquaintance or, worse, family on a night out. Lots of cars parked in the area. Telephone number is (632) 3850665. Visit their website.

Massage Parlors

Gay massage parlors are aplenty in Metro Manila. Most of them are in Quezon City. By definition, a gay massage parlor has only masseurs available to service clients. Only male therapists are on hand, but some places are willing to service female clients. Anything for a buck, I guess. Some are better than others in the amenities and facilities. Generally, gay massage parlors' facilities are not at all close to the high quality and standards of the regular spa or massage centers.

Note: Massage parlors come and go, so information on this list may be subject to change without prior notice. Thus, this list is by no means complete.

In Kamias-Kamuning Area:

1. Equanimity Spa
2. Mr. Earth Spa
3. Mr. Body Physique
4. Blue Room Spa
5. Hunk's Touch
6. Quantum
7. Boys of Bora

Along West Avenue:

1. Hollywood
2. Body Spec
3. Spartacus

In the Kalentong area:

1. Braveheart
2. Blue Palm (G/F Homerson Bld, Unit 116, Bataan Ext (at the corner of Bagumbayan St, near Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital), San Juan. Tel +63 928 5003077, +63 916 5173526, +63 2 7136553)
3. Xtreme Massage (137 F. Blumentritt St. Barangay Kabayanan, San Juan City. Near boundary with Kalentong, between F. Manalo St and Ver St, beside Aquasafe Water Station. Telephone # +63 2 7459000, +63 908 2384838)

Along Quezon Avenue

1. Human Touch (near the corner of EDSA, Quezon City)
2. Hilom Spa Center
3. Mr. Universe/Universal

Others still in Quezon City:

1. Revivir Spa (109 Scout De Guia Street, Quezon City, near corner of Tomas Morato. Tel Number +63 2 4105249)
2. Big Men Spa (Unit 1 24K Mansion, Timog Avenue Corner Scout Tuazon St.Tel. Number: 386-5401 +63917-8200824 for Tom +63915-6258114 for Jerry)
3. Manhunt (along northbound side of EDSA, Cubao, Quezon City)
4. Uhma Watu Body Spa (807-B VD Bld, Aurora Blvd, Cubao, Quezon City (across from the Partas Bus Station) Telephone +63 2 4144900)
5. Lakan (Along Araneta Avenue, near E. Rodriguez Ave, Quezon City)
6. Datu (Along E. Rodgriguez Jr. Avenue, near the intersection of New York St, Cubao Quezon City)
7. Bodylax (Along Roosevelt Avenue)
   

In San Juan,

1. Phoenix Reflexology Center 139-F Aurora Blvd corner J. Ruiz St San Juan City. Near J. Ruiz LRT Station. Telephone +632 3826183 +63 908 2384838
2. Gentle Touch
   

Gay Dance Clubs or Discos

There are only two gay discos in Manila.

1. Club Government - in Makati
2. Bed - in Malate

Bath Houses in Manila

There are only four bath houses in Manila:

1. Club Bath - in Pasay City
2. Club Fahrenheit - in Quezon City
3. Queeriosity - in Pasay City
4. Club Epitome - in Malate, Manila

Club Bath

One of only four bath houses in Manila, Club Bath is the original and grand dame of all bath houses. It's been around since the seventies, and its owner is a popular male model from that decade. The amenities are the best among the bath houses but you also have to pay for it. Its rates are twice that of the others. You choose either a locker or cubicle. The rate for a cubicle is double the rate for a locker. Like all other bath houses, membership fee is required and you must bring with you a valid identification to sign up and each time you visit the place.

The place can get really crowded on some days, usually weekends and especially on long weekends. The crowd is varied but generally older compared to the other bath houses. This is probably because of its higher rates. Students can't afford this.

Address is 2456 F.B. Harrison Blvd. corner Valhalla St. Pasay City (near Pasay City Sports Complex, Cuneta Astrodome, Holiday Plaza, Libertad, and Pasay City Hall). It doesn't have a sign so all you need to look for is the number "2456" on the wall. Telephone number is (632) 833-2866. They have a website.

Braveheart Men Spa

This location has had several reincarnations and masseurs have come and gone. The interiors have not changed despite all the changes in management and ownership. They remain sparse and basic. I did not like the look of the place and thought the masseurs could be improved. I like their logo and front sign, for sure. Looks quite inviting. Too bad the interiors and the masseurs did not match the storefront.

Located in Sta Ana, Manila near the border with Mandaluyong on Kalentong St. Its right next to Puregold Kalentong. This is one of three massage parlors in this vicinity and is accessible for Makati based people not willing to go all the way to Quezon City for an illegitimate massage. Address is #3333 Unit-E New Panaderos St. Sta Ana Manila (near Pure Gold, close to Market Place Mall. Telephone number is (632)9946804. Visit their multiply site for more info.

Equanimity Spa

They had to change their name from Utopia spa to Equanimity Spa. The first time I went there a few months ago, I asked to see their cubicles first before agreeing to get a masseur. They showed me the first cubicle. I found the interiors and lighting quite clean and well-appointed. However, this was limited to the first cubicle. The mattress, laid on the floor, is thin and looks worn.

Some of the their masseurs are quite good looking but others are plain. Nothing special here. They are located on one of the side streets of Kamuning Road, closer to the Tomas Morato intersection. Address: 45B J.Jimenez Street corner Kamuning, Quezon City. Telephone number is (632)4158099. Visit their friendster site for more info.

equanimityspa@yahoo.com