bali spa
No wonder Bali is known for its spa scene. Thanks to ancient healing practices, natural ingredients and a calm tropical setting, the whole experience has a special weight. Resort spas polished and looking out over the ocean and tiny Balinese massage places tucked away in the dense jungle. Either way, the island has some of the strongest wellness experiences around. The traditional Balinese massage remains the favorite among many visitors. The result is a blend of gentle stretching, acupressure, reflexology and essential oils which is restorative and deeply soothing. Many spas also provide flower baths, aromatherapy massages, hot stone therapy, body scrubs, facials and rituals from Balinese tradition. The range is pretty damn good to be honest, and can fit almost any mood.
Bali has luxury resorts with spas that seem almost unreal, mainly because the settings do so much of the work. In Ubud, you get thick jungle views. Nusa Dua has spas right on the ocean. Uluwatu is another story, with places on the cliffs that feel dramatic in a way that photos never quite capture. For a more refined spa experience, the wellness centers at Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan, COMO Shambhala Estate, AYANA Resort Bali, and The St. Regis Bali Resort are all great options. Their treatments are typically tailored to you, and often include yoga, meditation and other holistic therapies that take the whole thing beyond a simple massage. At the same time, Bali is not only for expensive resort clients. Local spa centers, especially in Seminyak, Canggu, Ubud and Sanur have really solid massages and beauty treatments without the painful prices. Some are simple. Some are surprisingly elegant. You can come in for a foot massage or stay half a day. “Honestly, it’s the calm atmosphere and strong healing tradition behind it that makes it memorable.”
