Say Ahh to the Spa

Published March 3, 2020 in RESORT

From the moment you arrive, every aspect of Wakatobi Resort encourages relaxation. You can start the day with morning coffee on an ocean-view porch or deck, spend the day immersed in warm waters while drifting over colorful coral reefs, savor gourmet meals in a beachfront setting, and end the evening at the jetty bar, enjoying a nightcap under the stars. And through it all, Wakatobi’s attentive staff is always there to provide personal yet unobtrusive service. It’s hard to imagine life could get any more relaxing. And yet it can.

An oasis of calm

Tucked among the palm trees that line Wakatobi’s beach is an unobtrusive bungalow that houses the resort’s spa. In this quiet setting, guests can choose from a range of treatments and therapies that blend the best of Indonesian and European traditions. Among our signature offerings for relaxation and rejuvenation are traditional Balinese massage, aloe-vera recovery treatments, hot stone therapies, Indonesian foot massage, and aromatherapy. Also on the menu are popular enhancement regimes such as facials, body scrubs, manicures and pedicures.

The Balinese tradition

For many of our guests, Wakatobi’s spa provides a unique opportunity to experience a true Balinese massage. Much more than just a rub down, this type of massage draws on the medicinal traditions of India, China, and Southeast Asia. Elements of these healing systems came together in the Indonesian province of Bali, which has long been considered a cultural crossroads.

Balinese massage draws on the medicinal traditions of India, China, and Southeast Asia and include a range of strokes and therapies to stimulate blood flow, oxygen and the life energy known as Qi.

Balinese massage draws on the medicinal traditions of India, China, and Southeast Asia and includes a range of strokes and therapies to stimulate blood flow, oxygen, and the life energy known as Qi. Photo by Wakatobi Resort

The resulting therapy is a holistic treatment that uses a combination of gentle stretches, deep-tissue massage, acupressure, reflexology, and aromatherapy to stimulate the flow of blood, oxygen and the life energy known as Qi. Balinese massage techniques include selective pressure, skin rolling and flicking, firm and gentle stroking, percussion, and the application of essential oils. In addition to relaxing muscles and revitalizing the skin and tissues, a Balinese massage can generate a sense of well-being, calm and deep relaxation.

Enjoy this quick visit to the Wakatobi Spa

Beyond the Spa

At Wakatobi guests can have their spa treatments wherever they wish. Rather than making a visit to the spa, guests can enjoy relaxing and therapeutic sessions in the privacy of their Bungalow or Villa, on an open-air deck, or even right on the beach. “I booked the Ultimate Indulgence package on the verandah at our bungalow,” says guest Kim Carlson. “

Guests can enjoy relaxing and therapeutic sessions in the privacy of their Bungalow or Villa, on the deck or veranda, or even on the beach. Photo by Wakatobi Resort

The sounds from the ocean were so relaxing. It was the perfect way to wrap up our trip. I felt like I had been on a wellness retreat.” Many have commented that the addition of ocean views and sea breezes take the massage experience to a new level. “When we go to Wakatobi we like to have massages every other day at the villa,” says Elmer Doty. “It’s the best way to finish the day after all the activity in and on the water.” These on-call services are available to all guests, and those booking an Ultimate 2 Plus package are provided with a complimentary daily spa treatment, which can be taken on the private deck of their villa if they desire.

Essential indulgences

One of the special touches that Wakatobi’s spa is known for is their custom blends of essential oils. The spa staff is well-versed in the beneficial properties of numerous botanical essences, and specific custom blends are often created based on a guest’s desired treatment. These creations may include combinations of ginger, lemon, rosemary, lavender, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sandalwood and more than a half-dozen additional herbal or flower inclusions. Spa visitors sometimes ask for formulas to be created for their benefit, which is something our staff is happy to provide.

Custom oil blends are often created based on a guest's desired treatment and may include combinations of ginger, lemon, rosemary, lavender, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sandalwood and more than a half-dozen additional herbal or flower inclusions.

Custom oil blends are often created based on a guest’s desired treatment and may include combinations of ginger, lemon, rosemary, lavender, jasmine, ylang-ylang, sandalwood and more than a half-dozen additional herbal or flower inclusions. Photo by Wakatobi Resort

And for anyone who wants to recreate the Wakatobi spa experience at home, we’ve gathered an ingredients list for several of our more popular blends.

Comfort: chamomile, bergamot, geranium, lavender, coconut oil, olive oil
Harmony: ylan-ylan, lime, sandalwood, coconut oil, olive oil
Invigorate: basil, ginger, rosemary, coconut oil, olive oil
Calm: lavender, ylan-ylan, jasmine, coconut oil, olive oil

Ready to experience the relaxation of Wakatobi spa for yourself? Contact us at office@wakatobi.com or complete a quick trip inquiry at wakatobi.com. A guest experience representative will be in touch with you to answer any questions and help plan your visit.

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