In the UK we expect you to undress to your pants for your massage.  Nudity for massage is unusual. If you are from the US, please take your pants off and keep your briefs on! 

 I have to take my bra off?  If you feel uncomfortable removing your bra, please don't worry, we don't massage over the breasts, we just want an uninterrupted flow over your shoulders and down your back.  If you prefer you can keep your bra on for comfort, your therapist will just ask you to slip your arms out of the straps. If she massages your back, she'll undo the clasp to give her an uninterrupted area to work on.  She'll redo the clasp before she asks you to turn on to your back.  

 I'm just having a back massage, do I still need to undress to my underwear?  If you are having a back massage we suggest you remove your trousers/skirt so we don't need to worry about getting oil on your clothes.  We tuck a towel into your underpants waistband and we shuffle your (under)pants down over your hips to give us access whilst still protecting your modesty.  

 Ok, I've got it, wear underwear. What type do you recommend?  We use your (under)pants as a guide to where we are massaging.  If you are having a massage of the lower body, we suggest that you wear briefs or sloggis. A thong tends to interrupt the massage flow down the side of the body and lower back.  Boxer shorts get in the way for a thigh massage.  A pair of modest briefs with a stretchy elastic waistband are perfect. 

I only have boxer shorts, can I not wear these? No problem for a back massage, if we are massaging your legs, I'm afraid we will not rummage around under your shorts to massage your thighs.  Your choice. 

 My underwear is a bit shameful...Actually we never see your underwear, it's safely tucked under a towel.  If we do catch a glimpse we'll be relieved that we don't have to worry about getting oil on designer frillies.

 I've never had a massage before, what should I expect? A treat!  Your therapist will talk you through your treatment and put you at ease so you can relax.   She'll start by giving you a few minutes of privacy to undress and get on to the couch.  Don't worry if you can't remember if she said lie on top of or under the couch covers (hint, it's like a bed).  Your therapist will come in and check that you are comfortable. She'll rearrange your arms and so on if she needs a change of position.  

 My boyfriend has never had a massage before - he's worried about being semi-naked with a female therapist.  Ok, so reassure him that massage makes you sleepy! He doesn't need to chat to us - he can relax, as long as his hands are outside the towel we'll be cool.

 Can I have your number? We observe a professional code of conduct and ethics.  Our personal life is our own business and we do not bring it to work.  If you are a regular client we may well discover that we have a lot in common, but please don't invade our personal space as this is a bit creepy.

 Do I tip my therapist?  We have an International clientele and we understand that gratuities are a tricky area when you are not in your home country.  If you have been pleased with your treatment a tip of around 10% is usual. This is passed to your therapist in full