Bali is synonymous with massages. Not just affordable ones, but great ones.
On our journey to Ubud, a hidden gem in Bali that had captured my heart a long time ago, causing me to live there for almost 4 years, picking out a special spa to spoil myself and my partner was a priority on our to-do list.
After organising to stay with my dear friends Ketut & Nyoman and family at their villa at Taman village, a good tad out from the hustle and bustle of Ubud’s centre, I called and booked our massages at Jelatik Ethical Spa.
It is one of the oldest spas in Ubud, dating back to the days before the movie ‘Eat Pray Love’ initiated the pilgrimage that has gradually transformed Ubud from its tranquil sleepy days to what it is today.
Located on the main loop connecting Jalan Hanuman and Monkey Forest Rd. Jelatik Spa sits just off the main street. Opening its doors 25 years ago, it is part of just a few spas remaining from the early days, when much of Ubud’s town centre was still predominantly rice fields. Being one who likes to chase up recommendations, we were sure to check this spa out and were not disappointed.
The calming experience started when we booked our sessions – a 60-minute couple massage. The only problem: choosing between the many inviting options from clay wrap to spice rub and everything in between. We aimed to rid our bodies of the quirks and pains from 8 hours of flight delays and sleepless air travel.
As we stepped off the busy road to peruse the menu of treatment choices we were greeted at reception by Putu with a warm smile and friendly hospitality that Bali is famed for. Together with the calming ambience, we were instantly seduced.
After due consideration, we chose the Yoga Massage for my partner Nina, which blends different massage styles of relaxation and remedial. For myself, I opted for a traditional Balinese massage. Our hosts carried these out perfectly yet were careful to stay on the gentler side for Nina, instilling confidence within us both, to know we had picked well.
Despite my liking for the deep-tissue massage, another treatment on offer, I absolutely loved the Balinese massage I had chosen, and this one was done exceptionally well by Kadek. Though I have experienced ample massages before, the way Kadek eased into the tense areas to loosen them before going a level harder and deeper, I could feel my body relax and my mind drift with the deep exhales as I let go of the tension harboured in my body.
Beside me, Nina melted into the table with each combination as Komang alternated between gentle and firm long strokes from head to waist, working her way down all limbs including the hands and feet. In short, we had been treated by two well-trained therapists with a strong commitment who also brought joy to their craft.
Without a doubt, our sixty minutes were well spent in the hands of these two massage therapists, house-trained by Jealatic Spa founder Pak Wayan, who had spent decades managing spas in international resorts and on cruise lines.
Time and tension had drifted away as we emerged a good hour later in a daze of deep relaxation, gentle calm and presence in the here and now. Following our massages, we were offered tea and fresh fruit as we sat in the foyer to rejuvenate our senses and ease back into the world around us.
Before heading out into the bustling streets of Ubud, as luck would have it, we had the opportunity to meet Pak Wayan, proprietor and host at Jelatik Spa. Through our deep conversation, it became apparent, that Wayan is not just a business owner, but a man of purpose. As a Manku, a local monk/priest, he facilitates healing and blessing ceremonies in his village, ordained by family tradition.
Recognising his passion for delivering holistic services, Pak Wayan had created this relaxation spa in the heart of Ubud many years ago. Now, he is called to do higher work in the village of his heritage. Speaking with Wayan gave us a good insight into the strong focus on healing and well-being that sits at the core of the Balinese spirituality and culture.
We left the spa transformed, which is why we always have a massage as soon as we arrive rather than days later. It seems to help us shake off the flight and switch into holiday mode quicker. (Highly recommended)
Sure, massages are on offer on every corner, especially in Bali and in the healing mecca that is Ubud. But, finding a place where the sentiment of calm, exceptional quality massages and treatments, and the innate spirituality of the Balinese people can be felt – is difficult.
Yet, Jelatik Ethical Spa offers just that and is a spa not to miss.
However, it’s always best you judge for yourself. Check out their treatments at www.jelatikesthetic.com, when next in Ubud. Now you know where to go.
Our Rating:
5 out of 5 Oil Bottles
We don’t give a full house easily. Enjoy!
