I started 2014 with a trip to Bali, and my first stop was with Maya Ubud. It was important I be in Ubud, as the word Ubud means medicine and I wanted to receive deep healing there. The hotel offered an 8-day Spiritual Journey package and I booked this because I wanted a full experience!

I had daily yoga with a great instructor named Arif. Unfortunately, he no longer works there. However, I’m sure whoever is there is just as skilled and experienced. Arif was excellent at adjusting the practice to suit my body strength and every day I learned a new pose. In fact, by the end of the 8 days, I had completed 40 poses! He also gave me an instructional brochure to take with me as a reminder of all I learned!

The morning walk to a traditional village was exercise too. I think they called it, ‘Village Trekking‘ and that was spot on! Wayan was my guide and we walked to the Elephant Cave, through the rice fields and stopped in a local neighborhood. Wayan is an excellent guide and I enjoyed my walk, even though I had to taxi back the last few miles from heat and exhaustion.

I thoroughly enjoyed learning how to make the flower offering and visiting the temples. Visiting the Balinese Healer was also a treat and I will return to see her.

As for the rest of my experience, the hotel and grounds are beautiful.

I got a Pool Villa, but I didn’t need the pool. I never used it, but I did use the outdoor shower! 🙂 I also asked for a villa facing the River Valley based on other reviews, and while I enjoyed the privacy, there are a few things to note:
1. I was in 515 and I had total seclusion and privacy.
2. Every morning I heard the call of prayer at 6a. If you like to sleep in, use earplugs.
3. It was a trek to get to yoga and the spa. If you like to walk a lot, choose this villa!

The staff is wonderful, kind and courteous. I enjoyed the food as well and stayed mostly on the grounds to have my meals. Definitely, make it to The River Cafe by the Spa! Great surroundings, peaceful and a wonderful and healthy menu.

I did have spa treatments included in my package, and I actually canceled my last one which was 2-hours. I personally did not find the massage treatments to be outstanding and I also found the draping to be less than adequate. I felt rather exposed most of the time. I got a special foot reflexology treatment (I paid extra) and found that to be good. The spa facilities, however, are outstanding. The treatment rooms are beautiful and many have amazing views.

By the way, the gym/yoga facilities are great too. I think I would return to this hotel just to exercise there! Great equipment and great staff! I really enjoyed my conversations with Gina. He’s very inspirational! (If you get a chance, have a chat with him! He will motivate and inspire you!)

Overall, my journey and experience was healing, enlightening, explorative, inspiring and I met wonderful people.

Matur Suksma!