Relaxation in Bali

IF you're after a little more quality and little less Kuta Beach culture, the next step up is one of the massage, spa and beauty treatments. These are all available at this mid range, usually at quite reasonable rates. Luxury spas are the latest trend in Bali, and there is plenty of choice of massage experience at the top end.

Many hotels have special outdoor Balinese style "bales", in which it's possible to have an open air massage on a raised platform covered with an alang roof overlooking the ocean. Salons offering facials, manicures, pedicures, body masks and hair designs are often positioned near the massage rooms or are a part of the spa complex in hotels.

Also, most of the larger hotels have gymnasiums, pools and tennis courts conveniently located near the spa so it's possible to make the most of a workout. Many spas have cafes attached and it's possible to cleanse the body internally as well as externally with a range of healthy treats. Calorie controlled, fat conscious foods are available at these special cafes, so it's possible to indulge healthfully.

The use of fabulous aromas, and sometimes the more carefully crafted aromatherapy sessions, have become part and parcel of the total modern massage and spa treatment. Thermo therapy and aqua aerobics, hot spas and cold plunge pools, saunas and steam baths are also fast becoming a compulsory addendum in the therapeutic process.