While the island kicks off its high season with major events, happenings and much glitz and glamour there is still room for that private moment to share with a close friend, and to surrender to the incredible Bali “moments” of breathtaking views, a sense of freedom and a taste of tropical paradise. by Sarah Prewitt
The Four Seasons Jimbaran is one such place, with architecture that curves around the beautiful Jimbaran Bay, a place where traditional Balinese life is conducted along the golden sands and sweeping hillsides.
To connect the experience of a spa with the natural surrounding, the Four Seasons Jimbaran has created spa rituals that embody the essence of the ocean.
The Sodashi Water Valley Ritual is a wonderful treatment for couples to enjoy.
After being guided to a private waterfall, the couple enters a discreet hideaway where a treatment of skin brushing followed by a petal rub sets the scene for the relaxing massage. Alive with the positive ions of the sea and the scent of flowers the air around becomes a part of the treatment. Long firm massage strokes unwind the tension in the body and encourage relaxation through increased circulation and hand pressure.
Relaxing this way increases a sense of shared intimacy, of privacy and of nurture. Thoughts are fleeting and peaceful and the mind can daydream of beautiful times… After the massage a gentle cleansing facial soothes the skin leaving the body in total peace and harmony with itself and its surroundings. A rose quartz is placed at the heart to encourage the radiating energies of love, and at the close of the treatment the couple are taken to a secluded bale to enjoy green tea, a truly breathtaking view and each other’s company… a very private S’pa-rty.
While Seminyak rocks throughout August there are other areas of Bali that pride themselves on providing only exquisite tranquility and elegance. Amankila on Bali’s East Coast is one such location, situated on a sloping headland above the town of Manggis overlooking the Lombok Strait to Nusa Penida. This understated pavilion of pure pleasure invites guests to immerse themselves in a quieter, more gracious Bali. Guests here can chose different locations for their spa treatments and the dedicated spa ‘cove’ set amongst the bamboo trees has the added advantage of the acoustic ambience of ocean waves and the call of birds in the high palm trees. It is a setting that strips away tensions, and brings the guest back to nature. The treatments are also uncomplicated, delivering authentic, highly personal massage styles; each therapist has an ability to follow the needs of the body through the palms of their hands. In this cleansing, clear environment it is easy to drop the small concerns that prevent easy pathways to loving and just let everything go with a deep sigh at the recognition that we are stripped of our cares, for the true nature of our souls is to love.
At Amankila the moon and stars are the coloured lights, the birds are the DJs, the rhythm of the ocean is the bass and drums are the heartbeat of the earth.
And while the private party couples enjoy their space, the dancefloors of the southern island heat up and revelry goes on til dawn.
Make sure you get your tired feet to CHILL at Jalan Kunti, where like dancing Princesses and Princes, your feet will receive tender loving care so you can slip them into dancing shoes night after night.
Get glamorous manicures and pedicures by stepping out of the Bali Deli and into GLO SPA SALON for the latest in nail art and high-end nail care. Top up on your tan and take advantage of some cheeky waxing that will leave you superbly smooth for slipping into a bikini for Ku De Ta’s Day parties.
And, if your tresses need a spa, take them to SPOILED where the specialised crew will give each hair individual attention whether for a trim or a full change of image… [NOW]
• Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay0361 701010www.fourseasons.com/jimbaranbay/
• amankila Manggis
www.amanresorts.com/amankila/home.aspx
0363 41333
• Glo
Jalan Kunti, Seminyak
0361 738689
• CHILL
Jalan Kunti, Seminyak
0361 734 701
• Spoiled
Jalan Umulas II
Umulas
0361 8475141