If you’re searching for your own personal Nirvana and in total need of time to reconnect with your inner Goddess, then head to Bali. Located in the center of the Indonesian Archipelago, a vast chain of islands stretching from the Indian Ocean to the Pacific, Bali is a breathtaking exploration into nature and beauty, while maintaining a cosmopolitan blend of luxury, style, and fun.
Bali is known for its exotic silk saris, carvings, and furniture; and a visit to the Ubud market is a must. Be warned the Ubud market is hectic and not for the faint of heart. Amid the noise, color, hustle and bustle of the markets and city centers, there is peace and tranquility to be found in the jungles and lush foliage, verdant rice paddies, vast sandy beaches and crashing waves.
Though predominantly Hindu, the island is an exotic blend of Buddhist, Catholic and Muslim influences. These flavors are reflected not only in the spiritual energy, architecture, culture, and cuisine, but also in the warmth and generosity of the Balinese people who will only ever greet you with a warm smile.
The island has long been known as an “it” destination among chic international travelers, who revel in its intoxicating offerings. Beautiful vistas, sensuous aromas, soothing sounds and healing hands, compliment hot nightclubs, cool sunset lounges, and trendy European boutiques. Massage is big here, and you can find yourself pampered in a gorgeous resort spa, or pay as little as $3 and get your rubdown on the beach.
If the ultimate in eco-luxury is your thing and you’re craving holistic instead of hedonistic, then consider a stay at the award-winning Como Shambhala, near the boho artists’ colony of Ubud. This haven is a luxurious and serene break far from the madding city crowds, nestled in rolling hills and rice paddies, and far off the beaten track. The beauty and tranquility of this eco-resort is equaled by its commitment to wellness, as it is also a full-service residential health retreat.
Set on a 23- acre estate complete with its own mineral water source from a natural spring locally revered for its healing properties, Como Shambhala can create a total experience tailored to each guest’s individuality. As well as a resident Nutritionist, Ayurvedic Doctor, Chiropractor and Physiotherapist, there are resident teachers specializing in fitness, yoga, pilates, and Tai’Chi. There are also activity guides ready to take you mountain biking, climbing, whitewater rafting, or hiking through villages, temples, and jungle gorges. If that were not enough, you might consider one of their specialist Learning Seminars where guests can study Buddhism, meditation, and other spiritual practices.
When you’re ready for a little pampering, their spa has a choice of up to 12 therapists ready to give you hands-on healing. From Thai, Indonesian, Shiatsu, Hot Stone or Ayurvedic massages, Reflexology and Reiki, to cellulite busting warm muscle wraps and anti-aging aromatherapy facials.
All cuisine served at Como Shambhala comes from three specially selected organic suppliers on the island and about 95% of their menu is classified as 100% organic. On occasion, Executive Chefs Chris Miller and Diana von Cranach host a six-course raw luncheon that infuses traditional Indonesian and Balinese flavors.
If this all sounds too good to be true, it really isn’t. Como Shambhala also makes it a priority to conserve its environment and support the community, even establishing a kindergarten for local children. The estate has zero VOC paint throughout, reuses their grey water for rehydrating the grounds, composts organic waste, and has an extensive recycling program.
Should your inner Goddess find that Zen is no longer her yen, you can head to the town of Seminyak where it’s all about the beach. After a hard day surfing, you can still have a bit of pampering with a traditional Balinese massage under a canopy on the sand, have dinner at organic Zula restaurant, before grabbing a cabana at one of the cool beachside lounges, and finishing the evening with some serious dancing under the stars.
Due to the beautiful Balinese spirit and reverence for nature, no matter where you go on the island, you can find your green thing. This is a place where the people literally give thanks every day by way of offerings left for the Gods, which is one of the reasons Bali is so breathtaking. Whatever your heart desires, you can quite literally find it in Bali. You will return from your global adventure happy, inspired and ready to take on the world. Wherever you go, remember to travel lightly (local, organic, sustainable, fair trade or recycled) and always offset your vacation's CO2 emissions.
For more information: www.Comoshambhala.bz
Anna Griffin is the creator and Editor-in-Chief of Coco Eco Magazine – a hot, new online eco-fashion magazine.
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