One of the biggest attractions when holidaying on the island of Bali is to experience one of the ‘Island of the Gods’ natural spa treatments. The most popular of these is the traditional Balinese massage.

So, what makes traditional Balinese massage so unique and where does it originate from?

The heart of tradition

The Balinese people have long valued the health benefits of massage; for centuries the Balinese have regularly massaged their newborn babies for health and well-being. Each village has a village healer who is skilled in massage. While in the past massage was usually only given when someone was very unwell today the traditional Balinese massage is popular amongst the millions of international guests Bali welcomes each year.

The origins of Balinese massage

Bali’s traditional cuisine draws on indigenous staples, pan-Indonesian influences, Indian – and even Chinese -flavours that have moved with populations over time.

With the majority of Bali’s people predominantly Hindu, the local cuisine differs from the rest of the archipelago. Much of Bali’s native food culture springs from their profound spirituality and worship of the gods, with some dishes prepared specifically for ceremonies and to mark important communal celebrations.

Of course, all this means that those visiting Bali will experience something on the plate they won’t find anywhere else on earth.

Babi Guling (suckling pig)

Rather unique to Indonesia, given the predominantly Muslim population, Bali can claim one of the best suckling pig recipes anywhere. Babu Guling is a small pig roasted to perfection and flavoured with an aromatic spice paste which includes shallots, ginger, garlic, lemongrass and turmeric.