Tucked in the lush jungles and valleys of Ubud, Spa Alila is a perfect sanctuary.

I was just in one of my favourite spots on earth, Bali, for a short trip.

And of course, I had to sneak in a spa session, and review it.

We stayed at the Alila Ubud, one of the Alila chain’s five properties.

Knackered from the plane ride, I opted for a 90-min Balinese massage that cost Rp.765,000 before taxes (it all added up to be around US$100).

The massage was done in a spacious and airy villa room, with a glass panel overlooking greenery.

Salt, lemongrass and lime were added into a basin of warm water and volcanic rocks to purify my feet.

What happened afterwards was a wonderful blur of firm and long massage strokes that made me feel lighter afterwards.

From her moves, I could tell that my therapist has plenty of experience and I was right. She told me she has been in the industry for more than two decades.

Alila is a big brand name in Bali.
In terms of the spa (and its food), it definitely lives up to its reputation.

Its rooms ( I stayed in the Superior one)? They’re simple with no frills. No TV. Open air bathroom.

There isn’t much of a view around the property besides the green green jungle.

The location is about an hour’s ride from Ubud’s main markets.

The pool area.

If you want plenty of fresh air and a good spa, this is the place for you.