There are plenty of massage places available in Vientiane. What I am talking about is massage and spa, not the one with the special service. If you like to go to spas, then I recommend Champa Spa right in the middle of downtown Vientiane (they have two branches, the one at the river is the one I most like).
But if you just want to go for a simple massage, without all the "What oil, Sir?" and hundreds of Buddha statues and small fountains, then go for the Vientiane Healthy Massage. It is located not far from the Burmese Embassy. Turn right when coming from Thadeua road, follow the small street for approximately five minutes until you see the sign on the right hand side).
The place is run by a French and a Lao guy, as it is located in a small villa. They offer herbal massage, body massage, back and shoulder massage, and some facials with foot massage. As mentioned above, do not expect a cosy chilly Indian spa thing, but it is clean and comfortable. My favorite is the back and shoulder massage, while my wife goes for the herbal massage.
The massage staff are friendly and well trained, but they do not speak English. Sonalath, the owner, speaks English and Lao.
Prices at the venue range from between 30.000 KIP and 75.000 KIP for the luxury facial treatment. They offer massage at your home as well for about 50.000 KIP.
Call for an appointment: 020 717 48 70
Links:
[1] http://www.expat-advisory.com/articles/91
[2] http://www.expat-advisory.com/articles/274
[3] http://www.expat-advisory.com/sites/default/files/southeast-asia/laos/article_images/review-vientiane-healthy-massage_massage2_january-2-2011-416pm.png
[4] http://www.expat-advisory.com/sites/default/files/southeast-asia/laos/article_images/review-vientiane-healthy-massage_massage3_january-2-2011-416pm.png
[5] http://www.expat-advisory.com/sites/default/files/southeast-asia/laos/article_images/review-vientiane-healthy-massage_massage1_january-2-2011-416pm.png