Rue Bichat could be the central character of TV series. Between once gritty- now cool Belleville and the trendy Canal St Martin, it’s home to actors, singers, tap dancers, artists and has cool bars, vegetarian eateries, pizzerias and, I heard through word of mouth, an incredible massage salon.
Last week after a trip to Nice and a long trip back to Paris, it was time to check it out.
One you step in the door of number 12, you’re no longer in Paris. Set up like a salon de The, you can arrive early or stay after your massage to sip ginger or green tea and leaf through some Confucius. The owner Jean-Louis Laidet, once restauranteur, has been running the salon for two years. “I love China and the region and the traditional massage techniques have so many benefits,” he says.
The Tibetan and Thai masseuses (and masseur) are trained in Chinese, Tibetan and Thai technique, learnt and practiced before coming to France. My treatment is with Tibetan Sonam. I’m sure everyone is good but she was terrific. There’s nothing worse than a massage that isn’t quite strong enough- but this was perfect- deep tissue to pull out that uncomfortable seat fixing that slightly aching back and those tight neck muscles. With reflexology thrown in, and a to -die-for head massage at the end, I left another person and like after any great massage, wondering why I don’t do this weekly.
Very reasonably priced (45 Euros for an hour), it’s a perfect idea after a flight into Paris or before you leave or, why not after my Belleville walking tour for The Big Bus Tour & Travel Guide? You can also get a massage with your beau/belle with side-to-side couple massages… apparently quite popular in this neck of the woods.
Enjoy and say bonjour from us!
Xin Sheng Institut
12 Rue Bichat, 75010 Paris
+33 (0)1 42 46 10 62
