Things to know about Ubud…

I wanted to write a rather personal article about my feelings towards the town of Ubud. I was very pleasantly surprised on my first trip; it went very well despite some inconveniences at a hotel that I won’t write about here. As I’ve always said, I’m not here to criticise a place or tell you anything about something I don’t like/didn’t like.

Ever since I was a little girl I’ve felt things very strongly, a little more than the average person, and having to live with my hypersensitivity isn’t easy every day. I have to pay attention to places that are steeped in history, and believe me, in Ubud it was impossible to escape my hypersensitivity. 

Let’s take the hotels first, now you know one of the reasons why I had to leave my first hotel in Ubud as quickly as possible.

Now let’s talk about my second trip. Before settling into my first staycation, Ada and I went to Griya Beji Waterfall and then Goa Gajah.

I landed during a ceremony at the Waterfall, and I can still hear the screams of the people performing the ceremony. For me, it was difficult to have so many people and so much shouting around me, it had quite an impact on me – it was to exorcise their moral pain.

I felt very heavy coming out of the ceremony, a big weight on my shoulders. We took the car and ate before heading off to Goa Gajah. The Goa temple is one of the first Buddhist temples on the island. I went into the cellar at the feet of the elephant. And that was the straw that broke the camel’s back: my stomach and chest hurt for two days after I went there. The effect was quite direct, and I had a hard time getting rid of it as I didn’t have my own little tricks to get rid of what had to go and purify my hotel room (be careful when you burn palo santo or white sage in a hotel, think of the smoking detector and the smell of white sage).

Basically, my pain lasted until my next stay-cation. After that it calmed down a bit. This experience was very strong for me, especially in Bali. If you’re as sensitive as I am, Ubud is full of history and energy of all kinds. Bali is a very spiritual island, so if you’re having problems putting off your trip to the island, it’s probably because you’re not ready to embark on your spiritual journey and it would be better to take this as a sign that you can postpone your trip.

Let’s talk a little about sarongs, the magnificent, colourful pareos that the locals wear from Thursday to Sunday and on the evenings of full moons – there are two full moons a month, the new moon and the full moon. 

But that’s not all: there are also ceremonies in the temples. As a tourist or expat, you should be aware that it is imperative to wear a sarong when visiting the temples. If you don’t have one, you can find them everywhere at the Ubud market, and the locals at the entrances to the temples will have some for you. Personally, I’d love to buy the lace top that the women wear with the sarong, with the belt over it. At immigration I’ve seen people in sarongs, but it’s mainly the staff who hand out sarongs to tourists/expats who aren’t dressed according to the conditions imposed to enter the state building that is immigration. A sense of the values of the country you live in is very important for social awareness.

The little extras:

When you see the little baskets of offerings on the ground, please pay attention, they are offerings.

Dinara Hotel

What can I tell you about the Dinara Hotel?

Having been to Tirta Empul before, which is Bali’s chakra, because yes, the Earth has chakras, I learned this very recently. After my karmic cleansing ritual, I entered the Dinara Hotel. I’m by nature very sensitive, and when I go to busy places I quickly absorb the energies that are gravitating around me, which isn’t easy in everyday life.

If I explain this here there’s a good reason, when I go to Ubud I’m very little quiet and relaxed, despite my love for this incredibly interesting town.

I’d like to start by introducing you to the very spacious room, equipped with air conditioning, tv, desk, dressing room, and a huge bathroom with bathtub and fully-equipped shower, all indoors, which makes everything more awesome, especially when you go during the rainy season believe me it’s very practical. A large balcony or terrace if you’re on the ground floor, extremely pleasant, with a table, chair and bench that could double as a bed if you were so comfortable on it. Fan to give a little breeze, as we were on the second floor and had balconies. Good news too, mosquito nets are very important in Bali, for mosquitoes, dengue fever, but also all the other animals, insects and the whole tutti. The value for money defies all competition.

Let’s move on to the facilities:

The spa, where I had a Balinese massage, felt chills all over my body, it was full of energy, so much so that all the accumulated energy came out, I cried. Yes, I cried a lot in Ubud, so when you’re sensitive, you’re touched not only by the beauty of the place, but also by the soaring energies. The therapist was utterly adorable and really put me at ease. She told me that I had accumulated a lot of karmic stuff. Imagine going to Tirta Empul to clear all my karmic energies to really cleanse myself of my old lives, apparently it worked well but I had to take some energies that didn’t belong to me into those lovely fountains. In short, the spa is a place with great therapists, slightly professional.

Yoga classes are also part of the facilities, but I haven’t tried them out as they’re not very active for me, and I like to sleep in too. So I can’t give you an opinion on it.

As for the co-working space, I usually write in my room so as not to be disturbed by noise or anything else. The co-working space was not open when I was there. In December, the hotel was not very busy.

The hotel’s Melali restaurant serves breakfast, snacks and dinner! The restaurant is very well designed, with a mix of co-working space, terrace and pleasant interior! And I say that after having eaten there every evening. They also offer room service, so don’t worry if you prefer to have breakfast or dinner in your room from 7am to 10.30pm.

On the other hand, there’s no laundry service, but there are two Laundry services around the hotel, one 50 meters away, the other opposite.

Well located in Tegalalang, about 20 minutes by scooter, the site is quiet and beautiful. And 10 minutes by scooter from the Cretya beach club. You won’t be too far from the center, so away from the hustle and bustle of Ubud center, but close enough by scooter.

So much for the Hotel Dinara, a lovely, zen-like place to stay.

When I was talking about value for money. I stayed there for three days for 213CHF/ 3’701’250 IDR/ 223,19 EU/ 239,04 USD. Hotel Dinara’s promise of zen atmosphère is more than lived up to; you even receive a discount voucher for the spa and breakfast on arrival.

Must try in Bali !

Jamu Loloh Cemcem

Green, healthy drink is a kind of Jamu is sweeter than an ordinary Jamu, it taste smooth and refreshing. The mixture of liquid palm sugar neutralize the bitter taste of leaf. It contains so many benefits for the body as reducing high blood pressure and prevent digestive disorders. I taste it ! As a person with cœliaque issus for years I was surprise of the direct results of the benefits on my stomach and my bowels.

Durian

I had heard a lot about the durian, this stinky fruit, with a pasty texture and the appearance of a poqué pique. Curious to form my own opinion, I had the pleasure of discovering it at Penglipuran Village, and honestly I was surprised. Admittedly, the smell is very strong, yet the taste is so sweet. The very pasty texture may be that the durian you are testing is too ripe, if it is compact this may mean that it is very young. Little advice: the best ones are located along the road.

Trying durian at Penglipuran Village

Sunset

Sunset in Bali is an event not to be missed, no matter where you watch
it from, it’s well worth the detour. It usually takes place between
5:45 and 6:30 pm. This is the perfect time to go to a beach or beach
club to enjoy the moment. If you go to a beach club, be sure to
reserve your place. My advice is to go to the beach, whichever one you
choose, and enjoy the moment alone or with a friend. If you like beer,
go and buy yourself a Bintang so you can relax by the water. Of
course, don’t forget to take your bottle with you too. You’ll see lots
of people enjoying this moment, which is well worth the detour.

Jamu

Jamu, or herb in Indonesian, is a mixture of herbs. There are many
different kinds. If I had to choose one addiction, it would be an
addiction to jamu. Unfortunately, in my country we can’t find any. The
best shop where you can find them is in Ubud at Jamu Sehati, I’ll give
you the link here: https://jamusehatiubud.com . There’s lots of
choice. The classic ginger, turmeric and black pepper will always be
my favorite, fresh or hot, the benefits on your digestive, immune,
urinary and joint systems are impressive. Stomach aches diminish, and
colds become rare. It prevents several illness. The more turmeric you
use, the more effective it will be on your joints with daily use.

I’m not going to write about must-tries like surfing or yoga in this
article, you know they’re Bali essentials.

Ada Tour

Who is Ada Tour? Here I’m going to tell you about the best tour guide I’ve ever met. Not only a great person, but an incredible concept. This person has become my friend. However, I’m going to remain objective in my article to help you choose him for his (too) many qualities. A top job for an extraordinary person! Ada tour is the company of good humor, laughter, good advice on Bali, quality videos and souvenir photos. As a solo traveler, taking videos and photos of yourself requires a lot of organization, which is why I needed a driver with experience and a passion for what he does. Really good prices, considering all the work he does! Never a hassle, only good humor!

Whether you’re a family, a couple, or solo, Ada will take you on a journey through breathtaking scenery, stopping off at restaurants where the value for money is total. I’d also like to point out that tour guides have a hectic lifestyle, are constantly on the road and have little time for themselves. If you’re self-employed, you know that if you don’t work, the money doesn’t come in. This job is extremely difficult and requires admirable tenacity!

Value for money: highly respected, for the trip from Canggu to Ubud I remember paying 200,000 IDR or 11 CHF/12.20 EUR/13 USD. For a whole day visiting Pendlipuran Village I remember paying 600,000 IDR or 34.80/36.60 EUR/39.00 USD. Ada will obviously take you to a corner of paradise if you don’t know Bali, otherwise he’ll recommend restaurants that live up to your expectations. In my opinion, for a driver who speaks perfect English and Russian, who gives excellent advice, with whom you can laugh and talk freely, and who also listens to good music and takes photos and videos to delight your family and friends, it’s a small price to pay. Not forgetting Ada, who delighted you by letting you try lots of local specialities, for me it was the durian, which has since become my favorite fruit.

I can’t think of a better driver than him. I recommend him from the bottom of my heart !

Website : https://adaqtour.wordpress.com/

YouTube Channel: https://youtube.com/@Ada-Evi?si=Iuub6dHTkF5y3ZYY

Solo traveler avantages & disadvantages

Loneliness is the hardest thing to deal with I’d say when you travel, maybe not the first time, but after the second time.
Sometimes you want to see places, do things, but you can’t do it simply because you’d like your friends to be with you at the snap of a finger to experience what you’re experiencing with you. Sharing has always been my kiff, I need intensity in my life and to do things with passion, otherwise I get bored very quickly.

I feel like I know Bali a little better than my own country, that I’m more touched by this country than my own. I mean, above all, the culture and the local people touch me enormously. I’ve been traveling since I was a little girl, and we moved almost every year, so I’m not particularly attached to my own country.
I like to share my experiences with you by writing, at least it’s immortalized!
This is just my opinion, not a general one.

It’s out of the question to write negative things, opinions on what I didn’t like, it’s very important for me to tell you only about what I liked, because everyone will have their own opinion on the places, the attractions, the food. What I like won’t always be to everyone’s taste. Between Indonesian restaurants, hotels/hostels and sometimes expensive attractions that are really worth it. So let’s move on to the pros and cons of traveling solo.

Advantages

– You never get bored with yourself.

– No obligations, just freedom.

– No one can put you in a bad mood but yourself.

– You do what you want, when you want, where you want. You’re in control of what you want.

– You meet people. My most memorable encounters were with locals. I fell in love with their philosophy, which I found extremely rich in knowledge and interesting.

-If you need help, ask around.

– Get out of your comfort zone. – Let yourself be guided by your own desires.

– You’re never really alone.

Disadvantages

– Feeling alone.

– Making friends when you’re an introvert can be tricky (believe me, I know what I’m talking about).

– Tourists sometimes don’t respect your limits when you’re out alone, so it’s up to you to make them respect you.

As you may have noticed, there are more positives than negatives. That’s how I felt about my various experiences as a solo traveler. Of course, there were times when I felt very alone, but out of that loneliness came ideas that I still have today. So thank you to all the people who inspired me.

Amantrana Hotel

Your journey to paradise now begins in the most balinese eco chic boutique of surroundings. You’ll fall under the spell of this establishment if you like balinese chic decor, tranquility and attentive staff.

I loved the warm welcome, the purification and protection ceremony around the place, my room overlooking the rice fields, the pool and the food.

There’s nothing I don’t like! Admittedly, it’s a long way from the beach, so you really need a scooter, a car or a gojek. But all in all, I was there mainly to rest and write, so it was clearly no problem. A real haven of peace.

The staff are so helpful, there wasn’t a day when they weren’t smiling! The fact that the establishment is run by women is also very important to me. As for the room service, your taste buds will be delighted by the copious and varied breakfast options: you can choose between an Indonesian breakfast option and a continental breakfast and juice. What else? It’s all delicious!

Maintenance is also very diligent. Let me give you an example. I don’t mind gecko, they eat mosquitoes and are as cute as can be. One snuck into my room from the ceiling. On the plus side, at least you know you’re protected by the spirits of your loved ones when they scream, especially if you believe in them, which is my experience. I called the reception directly and thirty seconds later someone came to remove it.

Another huge plus in this hotel is the whatsapp group, between you and the hotel. You can ask questions or make special requests, it’s very practical! There are only a few rooms, which gives it a special charm, and you know that if you love being quiet by the pool, this is the place to be! The place is clean. Personally, I highly recommend it for a honneymoon, or if you need to get away from the madness of Canggu and its legendary rush.

A special thank you to the three receptionists, real angels these ladies. Reception is open from 7.30 a.m. to 10 p.m. in the evening. If you arrive later than this, please let them know when you make your reservation. Great value for money! CHF 275 for 3 nights breakfast included. I recommend it and I’ll definitely be back! Leave you the link of the hotel here, have a look https://amantranacanggu.com/

Roommates Hostel Canggu by Ini Vie Hospitality

Awesome surprise location for a two-star hostel! Centrally located on Batu Bolong street, at a fair price.

Let’s start with the welcome! With Ini Vie Hospitality, I’m not surprised to find the place so well maintained, from activities like the evening movie on the big screen to the volleyball match in the pool. The welcome is very good for my first experience in a hostel in Bali, the design doesn’t take your breath away when I arrived, but then I saw it and I knew I wasn’t going to be disappointed by my room!

No dormitory for me, no shared bathroom, I need my privacy. I was pleasantly surprised when I saw the room’s equipment: filtered water, kettle, alcohol available for a fee, TV with Netflix, hairdryer… However, forget about the free cuttelery if you haven’t consumed anything, they don’t give you any.

The decor is very peaceful, all in orange tones! The concierge is reactive, and comes by to ask if you need anything around 8:30 pm, which in itself is very useful when you need water. On the other hand, the bathroom was a big disappointment, with a clogged shower. Bugs are normal. We’re in a hot, humid country.

I didn’t like the fact that I was on the rice floor, with little guys squatting on my terrace. It was soon sorted out. Nobody invades my personal space.

I’ll go back if I can’t find any other place, not because I didn’t like it, because it was a good experience, because I’m not much of a hostel person !

https://www.roomatescanggu.com/

What do you eat in Indonesia ?

Warung Varuna

Warung Varuna is the place to go, from the tasty yellow rice infused with coconut and lemongrass, to the nasi goreng, the vegetables are fresh and tasty, the chicken in all its forms is delicious, a rimbambelle of dishes we’d all love to try. Don’t forget your whole coconut to stay hydrated. Located a few steps from Pantai Batu Bolong beach, this is a chill & stay spot, where you can take away or stay in and finish off with a cool ice cream just outside the door. It’s a meeting place for all Indonesian culinary specialties! The price is slightly low for the quality. Try the tempe manis/sweet tempe.

Warung Inklusive

Warung Inklusive is a typical Indonesian restaurant, also serving breakfast and Western food, from Bebek Goreng (fried duck) to Nasi Campur, and many other dishes. Your taste buds will be delighted. The restaurant offers happy hours, drag shows, and evenings where you can learn sign language. It’s the perfect combination of business and pleasure, with a sprinkling of fun! You’ll pay a bit more than the usual warung, but the service is good.

The sweet escape bakery

The Sweet Escape Bakery is a very small place for great aesthetic things, and it’s all gluten-free. I had a hard time finding it, but it’s easier to park in Gojek. They make birthday cakes on request, and the workshop is in the back. I went there for breakfast, where the pancakes were soft and fluffy at the same time, tasty. Accompanied by black tea, they were perfect.

Poke Poke
Roti Canai

Poke Poke is my favorite for Poke (they have other things than Poke, of course). Why my favorite? There’s the choice of size, the ingredients are fresh, you’re asked if you want spicy tuna sashimi or not, choice between white or black rice, Balinese mayonnaise (a big favorite) or other, add quinoa if you like for 25’000IDR (=1.45 CHF). Basically, you can also follow the menus or create your own Poke for less than 10 CHF. Can you believe it? The staff are simply adorable! You’ll find Indonesian specialties next door in Roti Canai such as their incredible Soto Ayam (chicken, vermicelli and egg soup served with white rice), as well as the must-try Martabak, a thin, crispy pastry enveloping vegetables and chicken served with a delicate, fragrant curry sauce. Roti Canai means roti, in other words « bread », and believe me, there’s plenty to choose from, including onion and bacon roti… I’d also recommend the breakfast menu, which includes gluten-free waffles and a whole host of delicacies. There’s something for everyone, sweet and savory.

Sukun

Sukun is the Amnaya Resort Kuta’s very elaborate restaurant, where you’ll find everything from Western to Italian to Indonesian – yes, we’re in Kuta (the tourist destination) The breakfast is very copious if you can eat everything. I’d recommend the eggs Benedict, the hollandaise sauce, is really tasty if I can compare it to others where butter dominates. The gado gado is not bad at all… As for the dishes, the portions are small for the price. That said, in terms of taste and presentation everything is there, unfortunately less spicy than elsewhere, but I think that’s normal for an international hotel restaurant, as some people’s habits are not those of others.

Yuki / Bakso

On the Rooftop of the Beachwalk Mall in Kuta, please choose the Yuki bakso stand. Do you like fragrant broths, tasty meatballs made from chicken or beef (even fish, buffalo and so on)? Accompanied by crispy patties, kecap manis (sweet soy sauce) and sambal (chili puree), this is one of my favorite Indonesian dishes, and it’s very light, contrary to what you might think. Especially in this little stall run by a pretty lady dressed in pink and black with a warm smile. Dumplings (you can ask for tofu too), a mixture of crumb noodles and rice vermicelli covered in a light broth and you’ve got your meal for just 3 CHF.

Bluefin Japanese fusion & lounge

At Bluefin Japanese fusion, I haven’t tried the teppanyaki, but I can tell you that it’s quite a presentation show that pleases their barbecues. As for me, I’d sometimes go for some sushi, gyoza, or soba (cold spelled noodles soaked in broth) served with crispy tempura.

Umane Cafe

Umane cafe and restaurant, but what a delightful aerial setting overlooking the rice fields! I advise you to look at the patisserie when you come in, you’ll see cakes, and you’ll know you’re getting a dessert 😉 . I’ve only been there once, but I can already tell you that the green curry was special, not like Thai curry, but rather a flavor I’d never eaten before and would give anything to have the recipe! My friend had a Mie goreng that looked giant and very good too. Their freshly squeezed juices and teas are sweetened with no added sugar.

Village Green

The Village Green is ideal if you want a full breakfast at a more than fair price! The choice is vast, with something for every taste. From the shrimp omelette to the eggs Benedict, the brioche sandwich with rucola and tomato tapenade, and finally my favorite, the big village green breakfast (toast and two egg style, sausage, bacon, hash brown, guacamole, salad, mushrooms and spinach), all well seasoned. You can always choose between pork or beef bacon and sausage. Basically, the latter is to be avoided if you have a lunch planned, but a must if you have the famous Bali-gover (Bali hangover). The welcome is friendly, and you’re sure to bump into Liza, one of the sweetest waitresses I’ve ever met! Don’t forget the dim sum aswell they are good 😆

Passo by Nook

Passo by Nook, this restaurant is just incredible, the environment is magnificent, between swimming pool, rice fields, palm tree, the decoration but especially the cooking! This nasi goreng was by far the best I’ve had in two consecutive trips to Bali, and believe me, I’ve eaten some nasi goreng, the balance between too spicy and not spicy enough! The fresh mango juice was perfect. The wait staff were simply pleasant, smiling and helpful.

Bale Udang Ubud

Bale Udang! Oh, my words! I lost my words on arrival! It’s such an incredible place, I’m going to put a few photos up here, so indescribable in a single paragraph dedicated to the food. It seems that the locals come here more than the tourists, which is just as well, because in Bali, fusion cuisine is often present. At Bale Udang, everything is refined, from the service to the dishes and purely local food, which is what I liked. I rediscovered the authenticity of Bali, with its chilies, garlic, and lemongrass.

HoiAn by MeVui

HoiAn ! Tested several times… and completely adopted! Between the bun, the Pho, and so on, it was an interesting Vietnamese culinary experience, and it gave me lots of ideas to try and reproduce at home. The setting is so friendly!

Ji Restaurant is located in Canggu Pantai Batu Bolong, next to the Tugu Hotel. Japan is served directly to the plate, and there’s a huge choice of sushi, each as colorful and tasty as the next. If you can’t decide, there are tasting plates (I recommend the Tic Tac Toe) and, for dessert, the coconut crème brûlée. But there’s also a light ramen, for once the broth is fine and it’s not stuffy! The menu is precise, the choice is not exorbitant and the products are very fresh. The quality/price ratio is respected. It may seem a little expensive, but in the end, it’s better to pay a little more for quality. Don’t hesitate to go around 6 pm when the restaurant offers a magnificent view of the ocean and a magical sunset!

Eastin Ashta Resort Canggu – English Below

The gem that welcomes you to the pinnacle whatever the reason for your trip. Whether as a family, a couple, or solo I give you five reasons to choose the Eastin Ashta Resort Canggu to stay in Bali.

1. Welcome/service:

What a pleasure to be greeted with a smile, no matter what time of day you arrive. When you check in, you’ll be introduced to jamu, a strangely additive drink made from ginger and turmeric. If you’re arriving late, contact the hotel to book room service. The front desk is there to take care of you, Icha, Herry, Putu, Yoga, Wayan, Pande, and so many other fabulous people I’ll remember forever.

Icha is a kind-hearted person who knows how to respond to your requests and needs. For example, for an agency if you want to extend your visa, but if you’re like me, she’ll reassure you that the team is there for you, so don’t be afraid to bother. Herry will give you the best tips, for example, on the tours you want to do, with a driver who can best match your expectations to be your tour guide.

Special thanks to the team: Icha, thank you for being such an extraordinary person, always kind and smiling. I’m lucky to have crossed your path.

Herry, thank you for your good humor, you gave me joy every time.

Putu, thank you for your gentleness and calm. I’d like to thank each and every one of you at the reception desk because you’re all golden!

Personally, even though I haven’t mentioned them, I find each of them wonderful in their own way. Every time you leave or enter the hotel, there are their smiles, sometimes a spontaneous smile changes everything, believe me.

Even when you order a GoFood, they can bring your dish up to your room when you ask them to. In short, they take care of you, and it’s good to feel they’re there to advise you.

2. The rooms :

Spacious without getting lost in them, with ocean-colored walls, clean beds and sheets, top-notch maintenance service, houskeepers who clean every corner of the room, and balcony (very rare in Bali). Between cleanliness and organization, they’re really top-notch and extremely reactive, too. Sheet changes are made automatically. The pillows and mattresses are so comfortable. Linens changed daily. If there’s not enough bottled water, don’t hesitate to use the app that reception gives you on arrival to have your request processed or simply the room phone.

What luck to have had Bangkit as a housekeeper, every day a different linen design (elephant, monkey, even a yogi) with a little personalized note. A smile, a word, a conversation, I consider myself lucky to have crossed his path. A room is clean from top to bottom. Thank you for your work and for making my stay even more comfortable.

If you’d like your laundry done, just fill in the form in your room. It’s done quickly, and unlike other hotels, your clothes are not damaged, the whites stay white, and the waistline stays intact.

The maintenance service is very responsive, a mosquito problem? A toilet or shower with a small problem? In short, any problem has a solution with the Eastin Ashta Resort Canggu. Thank you, Adi, for all you do with maintenance.

3. Location:

Canggu, Jalan Munduk, 5 minutes’ walk from the « Pantai Batu Bolong » beach, excellent for surfing, but choose another for swimming. Firstly, for your surfing safety, and secondly, to avoid litter.

There are restaurants on both sides of the street, for example, BGS for coffee lovers, Warung Inklusive, for fun evenings full of craziness as we love. There is also Penny Lane, which is very instagramable 🤪👌 . I give you my favorites Roti Canai and Poke Poke. I recommend them for the local food and breakfasts! The Laci restaurant is well styled too. You really eat delicious Indonesian specialties.

There are also shops all around if you need something like deodorant, sun cream, or chips. There’s also an Express visa agency just a two-minute walk away. Just to let you know: there are two visa agencies, one fifty meters away (www.balivisas.com) from the Eastin Ashta Resort Canggu, and the other 100 meters away, next to the BGS café 😉.

There’s also a parking lot inside the hotel, which is very useful if you’re renting a scooter or car.

Admittedly, there is some construction, which is commonplace in Canggu these days. However, this in no way detracts from the quality of service and infrastructure. In short, location is a big advantage!

4. Food & Beverage:

What could be better than an incredible hotel with optimal service? Food and service, of course! Mr. Bagus Tisna, manager of the hotel’s Food & Beverage department, manages it all with a master’s hand. Jovial and charismatic, chatting with him was a real pleasure!

From the all-you-can-eat breskfast to the refined dishes on the « SALT » restaurant menu and the delicate cocktails in the Pool Bar. The healthy juices are simply addictive, with a range of colors, tastes and textures, from frozen to not-frozen. There’s also happy hour from 4pm to 7pm!!! Make the most of it, and try their espresso martinis or coconut ashta, they’re to die for! I’m going to list my culinary favorites, but it’s going to be difficult because I love the whole menu… 🙈. As much as the cooks ensure that your continental breakfast is delicious, you can also choose to have breakfast with local food. Let’s get back to the favorite dishes of the « SALT » restaurant:

1. Le Nasi Goreng

2. Pork Belly

3. Eastin Super Burger

4. Seafood Bisque.

I also recommend the spaghetti geen chicken (pesto), they really know how to cook pasta al’dente! The cooks are really good!

Special thanks to Agus for your good vibes, your kindness, your smile, and your cocktails, each one as good as the next. I loved the butterfly designs, a true artist at heart! And let’s not forget Hendra, who’s always on hand from breakfast to dinner, always with a word to make you understand that as a solo traveler, you’re never as alone as you think. Dewa, Dewa, Dewa, always on fleek, highly responsive, and with an infectious smile, what more could you ask for? Indah, sweet, polite, and so respectful, I loved talking to you at the bar. Thank you for sharing this moment with me, always top service. Riza, a wonderful surprise, a real little heart, funny and full of sweetness, a very nice meeting this year. Ema, elegance and kindness, always welcoming. Yoga, thank you for your good mood, your impeccable service, and your kindness towards me. Puji, I’ll miss your « Hi Marie », funny, always a gentle welcome at breakfast. Thank you to all those wonderful people, those smiles that accompanied me throughout my long stay.

I apologize in advance for anyone I haven’t mentioned, I won’t forget you! Each of these people had a word, a gesture that kept me going on this trip, which was another life challenge for me. Having stayed at Eastin in November-December 2022, and then several times in the last two months, I’ve become very attached to each and every one of them… I’ll stop here. There are too many emotions. This team is like a big family to each other. In fact, I consider them my family too: they’re all, without exception, helpful, incredibly polite, and generous.

5. Facilities :

Yoga: Twice-weekly morning yoga classes. This can be a real treat during your stay because you don’t forget that Bali is a destination where you can fully recharge your batteries. The pool: A huge rectangular pool, very well kept, always clean, with no insects or foliage inside. Exposed to the sun and surrounded by a bevy of transats and poufs, you can bask in the sunshine, and if you’d like a drink or a bite to eat, the service is open. Happy Hours from 4 pm to 7 pm are just great. Spa: Would you like a massage? Don’t panic, book your time at reception, and the spa will come straight to your room with a table and treatment products. Fitness: Yes, there’s also a fitness room for the less lazy among us (obviously, I’m not a fitness freak). Still, I admire those who are, what strength you have in this heat. Daycare: There’s a daycare center with nannies who’ll take care of your kids if you decide to go sightseeing with your loved ones. Theme evenings: Would you like to try the Indonesian buffet? Book your evening and let yourself be carried away by the flavor of your dish and the Indonesian dances. The same goes for the Mexican evening! As you can see, anything is possible at Eastin.



Value for money: For both short and long stays, it’s a great value. The location in Canggu saves you money on every level.

Whether you’re a family, a couple, a solo traveler, or a group of friends, this hotel can accommodate you.

https://www.eastinhotelsresidences.com/eastincanggu/

Espace Spa Canggu

J’ai d’abord eu des réserves quand au cadre, je regarde et me renseigne beaucoup sur les réseaux sociaux, peu en parlaient et pourtant ! Pour moi Espace Spa est de loin de meilleur Spa de Canggu.

C’est très clean et de la réception, passant par la salle de bain jusqu’en salle de soin commune ou privée. Aucune saleté qui traîne, c’est impeccablement propre. Chacun son casier, son sous-vêtement jetable et son kimono. Deux WC, et deux douches avec les produits. En solo ou en couple les soins sont bien organisés et les rendez-vous bien gérer par les réceptionnistes.

Rappel : il s’agit me mon expérience ici. Autant vous dire que pour les couples je n’ai pas d’expérience simplement des observations étant une voyageuse solitaire.

Le soin Crystal Aromatheraphy Foot Reflexology fait d’un rituel de soin avant, donc bain de pieds au sel, essences florales et pierres semi-précieuses (si je ne me souviens bien : cristal de roche, améthyste, aventurine, et jade). Pour moi qui était thérapeute énergétique je vous garantie que c’est incroyable pour désengorger vos énergies stagnantes, et puis accueillir le soin qui suit.

Concernant la réflexologie vous êtes coucher et non pas assis comme dans la plus part des autre SPA. La thérapeute vous demande quelle pression vous souhaitez de light/medium/strong. N’hésitez pas à informer la thérapeute si vous avez mal à une zone de votre corps, ou des soucis de santé existants. Les trigger points sont réalisés avec précisions. Honnêtement, j’ai été conquise de mon soin. La qualité était impeccable et le résultat bien présent instantanément. J’y allais pour tester le mal de ventre et les problèmes respiratoires.

258k Rp = 15.48 CHF (attention leur prix seront mis à jour le 1.07.2023)

Je vous conseille les trois mssages du corps ci-dessous :

1. Traditional Oriental. Un combo mixte entre le massage balinais, et les techniques thai, shiatsu, suédoise, ainsi qu’un peu de réflexologie il s’agit de leur massage signature. Il est particulièrement efficace envers les migraines dues de tensions musculaires, et pour la constipation.

2. Calm and relax me.Des effleurages en douceur, quelques pressions appuyés. Dans une ambiance reposante, massage reposant des pieds à la tête, en passant par quelques effleurages du visage. Je vous le conseille si vous souhaitez vous reconconcilliez avec votre corps, si vous n’apprécient pas les pressions appuyées, 1:30 est le mieux que je puisse vous dire pour vous relaxer un maximum entièrement et relâcher toute votre pression interne/externe.

3. Tension Relief – Deep tissue (optional). Celui-ci reste mon favorit, ma thérapeute Sulis était vraiment très à l’écoute. Bon il faut dire que la plus part des thérapeutes que j’ai eu frottaient leurs mains avant chaque soins après ce les être bien lavés. Elles posent les mains quelques secondes après sur certains points. Dans les métiers du massage ou on travail avec l’énergie du corps on sait c’est important de faire cela pour concentrer l’énergie du Chi/Qi. Par moment, la thérapeute appuie sur des point d’accupression précis, cela fait mal puis relâche instantanément la pression notamment dans les épaules et les hanches. Les effleurages sont complet et les techniques très à part entière, chaque thérapeute ajoute sa touche 😉. Ayant un corps plutôt frêle, je préfère généralement les pressions légères mais un jours j’avais tellement mal aux épaules après mon cours de surf que j’ai demandé une forte pression. C’était parfait, le lendemain plus de douleur et je pouvais paddler sans aucun problème.

Les trois massages ont le même coût. 276 Rp – 60 minutes (16.56 CHF) / 350 Rp – 90 minutes (21 CHF). Attention leur prix seront mis à jour le 1.07.2023.

Évidemment, il y a un panel de soin que je n’ai pas essayé pour le moment, peut-être lors de mon prochain voyage. Pour les reservation, aucun accompte est a payé, whatsapp reste le meilleur moyen de réserver votre soin (réponse rapide en plus). Je vous laisse le lien direct pour les soins : http://www.espacespabali.com/Pour conclure, je dirais que chaque thérapeutique que j’ai eu était très efficace, expérimenté et surtout ont une attitude professionnelle. Ce qui est indispensable dans ce métier. Un cadre propre propice à la relaxation et des schedule gérés par des réceptionnistes adorables.🙏🏼

English Below

At first, I had my doubts about the setting, but watching and reading a lot on social networks, few were talking about it, and yet! For me, Espace Spa is by far the best Spa in Canggu.

It’s very clean, from the reception area, through the bathroom to the shared or private treatment room. There’s not a speck of dirt to be seen – it’s impeccably clean. Everyone has their own locker, disposable underwear and kimono. Two toilets and two showers with products. Whether solo or with a partner, treatments are well organized and appointments well managed by the receptionists. Reminder: this is my experience here.

The Crystal Aromatheraphy Foot Reflexology treatment consists of a ritual foot bath with salt, floral essences and semi-precious stones (if I remember correctly: rock crystal, amethyst, aventurine and jade). As a former energy therapist, I can guarantee you that this is an incredible way to unblock stagnant energies, and then welcome the treatment that follows. As far as reflexology is concerned, you’re lying down, not sitting up like in most other SPAs. The therapist asks you what pressure you’d like from light/medium/strong. Don’t hesitate to inform the therapist if you feel pain in any area of your body, or have any existing health concerns. Trigger points are performed with precision. Honestly, I was delighted with my treatment. The quality was impeccable and the results instantaneous. I went there to test my stomachache and respiratory problems.

258k Rp = 15.48 CHF (prices will be updated on 1.07.2023)

I recommend the three body massages below:

1. Traditional Oriental

A mix of Balinese massage with Thai, Shiatsu, and Swedish technics and a pinch of reflexology. This is their signature massage. It’s particularly effective for migraines caused by muscular tension and is useful for constipation. Oh my words, I loved this massage.

2. Calm and relax me

Gentle effleurage strokes, a little pressure. In a restful atmosphere, a relaxing massage from head to toe, including a few facial effleurages. I recommend it if you’d like to reconnect with your body, and if you don’t appreciate pressure, 1:30 is the best I can say to relax you completely and release all your internal/external pressure. My therapist Putri was excellent, I recommand her !

3. Tension Relief – Deep tissue (optional)

This one remains my favorite, as my therapist Sulis was really attentive. It has to be said that most of the therapists I’ve had rubbed their hands together before each treatment, after washing them thoroughly. They put their hands on certain points a few seconds later. In the massage profession, where we work with the body’s energy, we know it’s important to do this to concentrate the Chi/Qi energy. At times, the therapist presses on precise pressure points, causing pain, then instantly releases the pressure, particularly on the shoulders and hips. The effleurages are complete and the techniques very individual, each therapist adding his or her own touch 😉 Having a rather frail body, I generally prefer light pressure, but one day my shoulders were so sore after my surfing lesson that I asked for a strong pressure. It was perfect, the next day no more pain and I could paddle without any problem.

276 Rp – 60 minutes (16.56 CHF) / 350 Rp – 90 minutes (21 CHF). Please note that these prices will be updated on 1.07.2023. All three massages cost the same.

Obviously, there’s a range of treatments that I haven’t tried yet, perhaps on my next trip. For reservations, no deposit is required, whatsapp is the best way to reserve your treatment (fast response). I’ll leave you the direct link for the treatments: http://www.espacespabali.com/

In conclusion, I’d say that every therapist I’ve had has been very efficient, experienced and, above all, has a professional attitude. Which is essential in this profession. A clean environment conducive to relaxation and schedules managed by adorable receptionists.🙏🏼

I am so sorry. I can’t remember every name, but I remember every face 🤍