When I'm being playful without a lee being restrained I will go straight for the common tickle areas but if it's a session then I like to tease the body by dragging my fingers first to wake up the nerve endings on the skin. Then Ill start tickling after a few seconds later.
I kind of have my own theory on this subject. It's not called torture for nothing. I believe that when a lee knows its going to happen their bodies may cause some sort of defense mechanism. It may kick in where it tickles but still the body is fighting the sensation. Which is why some thrash...
I always wondered if the ticklish fear those who enjoy tickling, knowing that they are "lers." I'm talking about those into tickling. I'm talking strictly about tickling not like creep vibe or distrust of a person.
In answer to being shy when it comes to tickling....as a ler, I would try to make the person as comfortable with me as possible by getting to know each other as people first.