My best friend lost his job because he was spotted entering a downtown agency on his break, which was pretty upsetting. He also lost his girlfriend, he seemed less upset about that. I don't go to agencies. I agree freakydave. I don't like the discretionary odds.
So I guess the fact that these agencies have anonymous store fronts doesn't mean anything. The guy who spotted your friend going into the agency most likely frequents it himself, otherwise how would he know what it is? Seems unfair he ratted him out. Maybe he's a religious hypocrite pissed off that he goes there. SU and SVIP are tucked in next to businesses, so if one just darts in, the only person who will notice is someone who also goes to that agency. FreeG's comment on here is one example. I'm certain it wasn't a woman who spotted your friend, because why would she know what that store front is? - unless she works there.
I've seen escorts in different parts of the world, and the four incall agencies in Victoria are among the best I've visited. Most agencies don't even have incalls, where you can just go at half hour's notice and bang a hottie in a comfortable, safe environment. Most only do outcalls to high end homes and hotels. Toronto has incall agencies like Victoria, but the latter has four in a much smaller area. You can walk between three of them - unheard of except in Vic.
Edmonton has many massage studios, which are basically licensed agencies/brothels. I've been there a few times and you have every type of girl and race under the sun. But, unlike the agencies in Victoria, they have actual store fronts and everyone knows what is on offer there. I would walk in like I owned the place, as someone suggested, but I feel more comfortable entering the agencies here. No one should complain about Vic agencies. They are unique and offer good, safe and discreet service.