TIPS AND WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE YOUR RETREAT IN BALI

As we are getting ready for our first retreat in Bali we are sharing some things which are good to know getting ready for your Bali holiday.

If haven't yet, check our previous blog post Bali Wellness City Guide where we share our favourite places to help you to experience Bali with a wellness touch.

/ TO SLEEP
/ TO EAT
/ TO SPA
/ TO YOGA/PILATES


GENERAL THINGS TO KNOW
• Bali is very safe, just be smart and always take care of your belongings.
• Almost every place you visit will have wifi.
• Tips and taxes are usually included in meals. Most prices are subject to tax (10%) and service charge (6-11%). If the bill doesn’t show service/gratuity then it is not included.
• Tourist areas are more pricey than others but it’s still very affordable.
• The cost for Alcohol in Bali can be quite expensive due to the high taxes on Alcohol in Indonesia around 200-300%.
• Visa. Most of the countries get free 30 day visa on arrival. Check requirements for your country with the Indonesian embassy or online. Your passport must be valid for 6 months when arriving.
• Ice cubes in restaurants are generally safe and government controlled.
• Balinese are super friendly and welcoming. They are also proud and are happy if you respect their customs and island.
• Bargaining with street vendors is a must. But it's also nice to respect and value their work, effort, and services, and to pay fair prices.

TAXIS AND GETTING AROUND BALI

Tourist areas like Seminyak and Denpasar have the widely available Blue Bird taxis. They do not take credit cards, only cash and are metered. Insist on the meter being on at all times. Sometimes a meter is left off and you will have to negotiate pricing. In the quieter villages like Ubud, the taxis are run locally and you need to negotiate pricing. So if you are staying further away from the airport, I would recommend asking the hotel for car service (they almost all provide it). From Ubud to Denpasar airport we had a car service for about $40 USD (thats a 1.5 hour drive). Taxis may be a bit cheaper but they negotiate mainly because they cannot pickup a customer on the way back. 

Uber is available and very cheap in Bali just be careful using this service as local drivers are against Uber and some times can be very unhappy about it. 

POWER ADAPTERS

Take power adapters for Europe/Asia plugs. The plug has the 2 round pegs.

MONEY 

The local currency is called Rupiah and it is always shortened to Rp. You can change your money at the airport. Do not change big amounts as normally the exchange rate in the city is little bit better. As soon as you arrive in Denpasar once you immigration and clear the terminal there is a money changer right there on the right hand side. Obviously you do not want to change a whole heap of dollars into Rupiah here and carry large wads of cash around. So the best thing to do is change a couple of hundred dollars which should see you over the next couple of days.

There are heaps of money changers all over Bali from; hotels, bars, restaurants right through to actual designated money changers. They are literally all over the place and very easy to spot. 

Make sure to go to official money changers. Be careful with small money changes on the streets which does not look trustworthy. They count the money out in front of you note by note and there may be say 50 or even 60 notes. Whilst doing this they get someone to distract you and they then slip a few of these notes very quickly into a draw. You will never notice this.

There are now cash machines or ATM’s all over the place in the tourist areas so if you do not want to change money just go to any local ATM. Max amount you can withdraw in one go at an ATM is either 1.250.000 - 1.500.000 (machine with a 50.000 sticker) or 2.500.000 - 3.000.000 (machines with a 100.000 sticker). You will be charged a fee between 2 and 5 US$ depending on the bank. But exchange rates are good, which makes it roughly the same, as if you bring your cash and change it here. 

The hotels are a lot safer BUT you will end up getting less due to the lower exchange rates. 

Visa and Master Card are most accepted. Credit Card payment in hotels, most restaurants and shops is possible these days. But the more remote, the less likely. A surcharge of 2 - 4% is applied when using credit cards. 

WEATHER IN BALI  

Being located in a tropical region, Bali daytime temperature can vary from 21-35 C all year round. High humidity and more rain is expected from December to February. Days are consistently sunny with rains arriving in the late afternoon and passing swiftly. South of Bali has far less rain than central Bali, where cloudy skies and rain drizzles are expected more often. 

WHAT TO WEAR 

Although Indonesia is a Muslim country, Balinese Hinduism is the predominant religion in Bali. If you are planning to visit temples just carry a lightweight scarf you can wrap around your shoulders or cover your knees while being in the temple or holy site. Choose light and comfortable clothes, that are perfect for hot and humid weather. Beach scarf is always useful, multi-functional item. You can use it not only on the beach but also a an easy cover up visiting temples. Summer hat and sun glasses are essentials traveling in Bali. 

HEALTH TIPS 

Make sure you have your health insurance while traveling. It is common to experience Bali belly during your holidays, not that you have to take extra care about the food, but normally just because you're trying so many new things, tropical and exotic fruits, enjoying fresh fruit juices and fresh coconut water every day.. this can bring a normal reaction of your digestive system. Normally if the reaction is quite strong we recommend to take activated coconut or bamboo charcoal which can be bought here in Bali. 

Tampons are extremely expensive in Bali and not available in other parts of Indonesia. 

Bali is a tropical island full of greenery and tropical jungles, that is why late afternoon around 5-6 pm is know as mosquito hour. It is recommended to have a mosquito repellent with you during all your trip, you can buy them here it Bali.

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PROGRAM & MORE DETAILS FOR THE EXOTIC RETREAT IN BALI - 19th Fb - 1st Mar, 2017

Transfer from the Airport to Five Elements resort:
We have booked a transfer for you, please look for your name & Five Elements resort sign after you exit the Airport. The transfer will cost 60 USD / per one way. Car can fit 3-4 passengers depending on the size of luggage.
1st day - 19th of February, 2017 
Hotel: Five Elements
Arrival from the airport. Check-in. Relaxing, resting, sleeping or chilling by the pool  after the trip.
We will meet everyone at the Welcome Signature Chef’s Specialty 3 course tasting dinner at award winning Five Elements restaurant.

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2nd day - 20th of February, 2017
Hotel: Five Elements
Breakfast time from 7:00 – 11:00am. (breakfast included).
9:00am morning pilates class (90 min) at Yoga shala. Afternoon relaxation by the pool, or enjoying holistic healing or beauty and SPA rituals at the resort. You can find more details and book your rituals by the link *We would recommend to make a reservation in advance. **You will enjoy a special retreat 10% discount to all the wellness and beauty rituals at the resort.
SPA working hours: 09:00 am – 09:00 pm.

Besides, resort has many other activities to offer, such as: Balinese ceremonies, Expressive Arts, Mindfulness, Watercolour Journey and so much more. More details by the link

Afternoon yoga class (90 min) with guest yoga teacher Kevin at Yoga shala. In addition, yoga bunnies can take a shuttle car to Ubud yoga studios. Please find more about Yoga / Pilates Studios below.

*Lunch and dinner is not included. This hotel is alcohol free. We again can recommend places to visit around but since this place is so magical we have a feeling most of you will just want to unwind after the trip.
**For those really keen on bubbles or wine you can purchase at the airport, the hotel doesn’t mind discreet consumption but doesn’t propagate alcohol.

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3rd day - 21st of February, 2017
Hotel: Bambu Indah
8:00am morning Pilates class at the yoga shala.
Breakfast at Five Elements. Breakfast time from 7:00 – 11:00am. (breakfast included).
12:00 noon check out from the hotel. Transfer to Bambu Indah resort (~ 30min)
Arriving to Bambu Indah resort, check in. Free time. Here at the resort you can enjoy refreshing swimming pond (sustainable pool without chemicals), walks overlooking the rice fields, relaxing body massages and treatments at the SPA. More details by the link
*Last reservation at the SPA at 7pm.
**You will enjoy a spacial retreat 10% discount at the SPA for all treatments.

You can also enjoy bespoke experiences offered by the resort, like: hikes, balinese blessings & ceremonies, tours, sunset cocktail on the deck and so much more. Mode info by the link

#7pm Optional Dinner at Clear Cafe, Jalan Hanoman, Padangtegal Kaja, Ubud

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4th day - 22nd of February, 2017
Hotel: Bambu Indah
8:00am morning Pilates/Yoga class at the Minang House.
Breakfast time from 7:00 – 10:00am. (breakfast included).
Free time.

#6pm Optional Dinner at Moksa restaurant, location here
Everyone, who wants to join us, lets meet there or go together!

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5th day - 23rd of February, 2017
Hotel: Bambu Indah
8:00am morning Pilates class at the Minang House.
Breakfast time from 7:00 – 10:00am. (breakfast included).
Free time.

7pm Special Retreats I Love dinner at Bambu Indah resort. At the restaurant.

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6th day - 24th of February, 2017
Hotel: Bambu Indah
8:00am morning Yoga class with guest yoga teacher Kevin at the Minang House.
Breakfast time from 7:00 – 10:00am. (breakfast included).
12:00 noon check out from the hotel. Transfer to private villa in Uluwatu (~1,5 h).
Arriving to villa. Check in. Free time on the beach.
6pm tasting dinner at the villa.

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7-10th day - 25-28th of February, 2017
Hotel: Private Villa
9:00am morning Pilates/Yoga class at the ocean view hall.
10:30am brunch. Free time.
Dinner at the villa.
2 dinners we are planning to explore fine dining in Bali:
- Potato head in Seminyak - dinner at the restaurant Kaum - and evening cocktails at the Potato head bar
- Sardine in Seminyak (or maybe any other).


More great restaurants in Bali you can explore by the link

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11th day - 01st of March, 2017
Hotel: Private Villa
9:00am morning Pilates/Yoga class at the ocean view hall.
10:30am brunch. Free time.
Check out according to the availability of the villa.
Transfer to the airport (not included into the price). Many of us depart similar times so we can share cars.

*This is our preliminary itinerary for the retreat. Schedule may change.


OUR RECOMMENDATIONS FOR WELLNESS / YOGA & DELICIOUS FOOD

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WELLNESS

Our Recommended SPAs in/around Ubud:

- Fivelements, Puri Ahimsa - awarded wellness destination deeply rooted in the island’s ancient traditions. Holistic therapies are inspired by the Balinese way of life, which encourages one to nurture a greater harmony with spirit. Healing rituals include a combination of meditation, deep bodywork and prana energy, performed by talented healers. The spa offers traditional beauty rituals, sacred arts healing and Balinese blessing ceremonies.
You can find more details and book your rituals by the link
*We would recommend to make a reservation in advance.
**You will enjoy a special retreat 10% discount to all the wellness and beauty rituals at the resort.
SPA working hours: 09:00 am – 09:00 pm.

- Bambu Indah SPA - award winning outdoor nature SPA features eco-friendly bamboo design and offers relaxing body massages and treatments.
*Last reservation at the SPA at 7pm.
**You will enjoy a spacial retreat 10% discount at the SPA for all treatments.

- Karsa SPA in Ubud - Surrounded by the rice fields, tranquil setting away from the Ubud centre. This SPA is beautifully decorated with relaxing and peaceful atmosphere. Intuitive massage (1,5 h) is a combination of different techniques such as: Balinese, Swedish, Deep Tissue, Lomi-Lomi, Shiatsu, and Reiki is our favourite massage and must try while staying in Ubud. Other SPA and beauty treatments and rituals available either.

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TO YOGA / PILATES

Our Recommended Yoga/Pilates Studio in Ubud:

- Radiantly Alive was founded by world-renowned yoga teacher, writer and Human Potential Coach, Daniel Aaron. He is part of many trainings at Radiantly Alive and teaching himself 2 classes per week. Yoga studio offers different yoga / pilates classes, some of them with playful touch as fly high yoga on the belts and yoga dance. If you want to add something new to your daily routine, try salsa dance class or acro yoga. If that’s not enough you can choose from various workshops and trainings organised at the studio.
Check class schedule online by the link

- The Yoga Barn - Located in the heart of Ubud, The Yoga Barn is SE Asia's full service yoga studio, holistic healing retreat center. Coupled with a spiritual vibe, The Yoga Barn is at once earthy and rustic, relaxing, friendly and unpretentious. Various classes and workshops available daily. The Yoga Barn also contains an established Holistic Healing center that includes, Ayurvedic Rejuvenation, Cleansing & Detox retreats, Sound Medicine, Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture, Chiropractic, Naturopathy and much, much more.
Check class schedule online by the link

- Ubud Pilates - hidden away in Penestanan, small boutique studio provides an intimate, private and unique space. A secluded sanctuary for your mind, your body and your spirit. 

Check class schedule online by the link 

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TO EAT

Our Recommended Restaurants / Cafes in Ubud:

- Moksa - a fully SENSUAL dining experience from exploding your taste buds with extraordinary food options, to opening your eyes in an ambience of raw elegance. Restaurant offers raw and cooked, vegetarian cuisine, organic wine, local coffees, teas and healthy elixirs. Concept from farm to table: the actual operational permaculture organic farm in direct proximity to the restaurant. 

- Alchemy - 100% raw vegan cafe & juice bar, organic health food store, and holistic clinic. The salad bar is where you will be spoiled for choice by an array of raw greens, fruits, cashew cheeses and salad dressings. Their raw chocolates, pies and cakes are so rich and smooth, it is hard to believe they are made without refined sugar, dairy or gluten. 

- Clear Cafe - The food is simply delicious. A litany of smoothies, juices, and a variety of raw options for all three meals of day plus dessert make this a foodie’s paradise. Plenty of raw and cooked options. They also have a little shop out front called Clear Express that carries raw granola, superfoods such as goji berries and cacao powder, home made energy bars, a host of chocolate superfood concoctions and many other tasty treats.

- Bali Buda - The restaurant is cozy with a friendly atmosphere, and the diverse menu even hints that the lack of wifi will improve your dining experience. Many tasty juices and smoothies to pick from, a decent number of raw options, Bali Buddha is a great choice when you’re hankering for a healthy meal. You can also get raw cashew, sunflower seed and walnut mylk made and bottled on the spot.

- The Seeds of Life - Very popular for it’s raw vegan desserts, this place is off the  charts for food innovation and attention to detail. Combines the elements of fun, flavor, vibrancy and integrity through Raw Living Foods. Mexican raw lasagna is the best in town. And you can’t leave the place without trying divine raw desserts. 

OUR NEW RETREAT - LUXURY WELLNESS IN SRI LANKA

Retreats I Love and Egoist Body Studios designed this retreat to indulge in exclusive experiences, personalized to your wishes, which pamper your senses and soul. 

Nestled deep in the mountains of Sri Lanka it is a place where you can breathe in the fresh scent of nature. It is not a traditional Sri Lankan experience, it is something beyond that. A true touch of 5* luxury wellness. A place where time stands still, and you can hear the silence which is followed by the sounds of nature, where view inspires as a priceless masterpiece and you have all the time to stare at the horizon… Here each and every detail is carefully chosen, to help you relax your body and mind.

Holistic design and dwelling spaces draw inspiration from 16th century, non-secular Tampita Vihara-style architecture. These rustic buildings with open spaces allow you to have greater connection to the Earth, you will feel it as you walk to the window to admire the view. Houses mounted on monolithic pillars to achieve a balanced inside-outside feel. Timber-floor platforms and whitewashed wattle-and-daub walls provide the perfect backdrop to feelings of spiritual uplift, as you meditate or simply take in the scenery, the cool Kandy winds brushing over you from all directions. Minimalist luxury allows you to indulge into wellness philosophy where life happens at your own pace.

Sri Lanka is a resplendent island that will tingle your senses to their very tips. It is a land in which wellness resides in the heart of all things. Here the concept of wellness goes beyond the body experience, during this retreat you’ll have a chance to enjoy latest wellness innovations together with the deep-rooted Ayurvedic culture. 

Your wellness journey begins with a Wellness Concierge who will guide you and assist you through your experience. Besides that, a wide variety of activities that include yoga, detoxing and cleansing therapies, fitness programs, meditation, mountain hiking, swimming in natural pools and much more are available during your stay. 

If you desire to treat yourself with beauty and wellness rituals, you are in the perfect place. Property offers Sri Lanka’s largest spa with over 6000 square feet and full hydrotherapy facilities including thermal salt baths, steam room, sauna, special treatment rooms. 

Inspired by the surrounding environment food during the retreat is prepared with a mindful touch. Executive Chef has created specially designed detox, vegetarian or SPA Menus that will detoxify your body, uplift your spirit and support you on your journey. 

During 7 days of the retreat you will enjoy unique space designed for your absolute relaxation. Surrounded by nature you will be able to rest and recharge taking care of your body and mind. Just imagine sunrise and / or sunset yoga with a scenic mountain view. After a morning yoga class you will be able to enjoy SPA facilities (Thermals Salt bath, Steam room & Sauna) or a swim in the natural infinity pool. To explore Sri Lanka’s culture and history you will visit Kandy city and ancient local temple.  

PRICE INCLUDES: 

- Accommodation in standalone chalets that are purpose built for wellness and yoga travellers.  

- 3 personalised fine dining Wellness meals per day – Options available for raw food diets, Vegetarian diets and Non-vegetarian diets. 

- Unlimited non-alcoholic beverages including herbal tea & fresh juices 

- Airport pick up and departure drop off 

- Free laundry       

- Free use of spa facilities (Thermals Salt bath, Steam room & Sauna)  

- Daily Pilates Workshop

- Daily Sunrise and sunset yoga

- Dhamma talk on Buddhist approach to mindfulness (or on a selected topic of your preference) 

- Excursion  (to Kandy or an ancient local temple) 

- Participation in all scheduled classes and workshops including meditation, healthy living, traditional Sri Lankan cooking and raw food cooking.

NOT INCLUDED: 

- Flights

- Customised packages

- Detox therapies

- Massages and / or beauty procedures 

- Insurance 

Dates: 14th - 19th of April, 2017 (Easter bank holiday)

Price: Double room (sharing) 2999 GBP / person. Single room - 4100 GBP 

Join us for this splendour hideaway an ode to relaxation and serenity.  

More details & booking by the link

Pilates and Yoga Retreat in the Middle of Nature

Like some of you already know, Lake House is just a magical place so perfect for a little retreat. The peaceful setting offers a perfect escape to nature, inviting to swim with the swans in the calm and pure waters after enjoying the relaxing effects of a eco hot tub bath and detoxifying with a traditional sauna. Whilst practising yoga and pilates on a wooden terrace one can also feed their eyes and soul with the beauty of the lake, align to pine trees and inhale & exhale the balsamic fresh air of the pine forest.

So excited to share that next spring we are returning to this beautiful woodland of Lithuania and inviting you to join us for Pilates & Yoga Retreat on 25-29th May, 2017 (2nd bank holiday).

All we are looking for is absolute relaxation, having a good time, recharge our batteries and enjoy the beauty and luxury of nature. The luxury of silence, the smell of fresh air, the song of the birds, whispering of the grass or wholesome homemade food with love. The gentle touch of people who care and do things from the heart. We're also excited to share that this time we will have 3 teachers for Pilates and Yoga. Lina & Becky will be teaching pilates and Joana will be here to make you flow and relax with yoga.

This retreat is perfect weekend getaway for couples too. If your beloved one is not into yoga or pilates he/she can enjoy walks in the forest, swimming in the lake, enjoying water bike or a boat on the lake, indulging into pleasures of traditional sauna and eco hot tub bath or just relaxing with the book while listening to the sounds of nature.

WEEKEND SCHEDULE

Thursday:

Late evening arrival

Friday:

Sleep long, inhaling fresh pine forest air

11:00 | Petit breakfast

Rest, sauna, swim in the lake

12:00-14:00 | 2 hrs Dynamic Yoga

14:15 | Healthy Yummy Lunch

Relaxation time: Sleep, read, swim, or walk in the forest

17:30 – 19:30| 2 hrs Pilates

20:00 | Candle-lit Dinner

Sauna + late night swim in the lake

Saturday:

10:00 | Breakfast

11:00 – 13:00 | 2 hrs Core Pilates

13:30 | Lunch

Relaxation time: Sunbathe, nap, etc.

17:30 | 2 hrs Dynamic Yoga (focusing on Heart 

Openings to balance that morning’s core work)

20:00 | Dinner

Sauna/movie/relaxation

Sunday:

10:00 | Breakfast

11:00 – 13:00 | 2 hrs Pilates (to lift your bottom)

13:30 | Lunch

Relaxation time: Swim, water bike or take a boat 

on the lake

17:30 | 2 hrs Dynamic Yoga (focusing on Hip 

Openings to balance that morning’s core work)

20:00 | Dinner

Sauna + late night swim in the lake

Monday:

11:00 | Breakfast

12:00 – 14:00 | 2 hrs Dynamic Yoga with relaxation

14:00 | Lunch

Relaxation time, swim, sauna make the most of the last day

Afternoon | Departure

ABOUT THE TEACHERS 

Lina Petraityte

Founder of Egoist Body studios & Retreats I Love 

In a hectic city like London it is so easy to forget yourself and your body and one can easily feel lonely. So we created a concept that is new and simple – a gym that feels like a second home so one feels part of a community. Egoist Body Studios, its concept and décor, aim to provide you with this exact experience.

Retreats I Love was born with intention to take this beautiful community to retreats organised by me worldwide. I turn my passion for travel into unwinding experience for you.

Becky Uden
I have been practicing Pilates for the last 6 years and it has become a daily addiction. It’s a great form of movement and has so many benefits… Physically it has completely transformed my body, keeping me lean and healthy. Mentally, it has given me the patience and focus to tackle my often-frenetic life.
My love and appreciation for Pilates has led me to teaching, after studying and qualifying with the J Pilates team. 

Joana

Joana teaches slow flow yoga and focuses her attention on correct movement with hands on adjustments to excel your yoga practise. She has been fortunate enough to train with Shiva Rea and Simon Park and this has influenced hugely her teaching style and is very evident in her classes. She loves white, good food and travel. 

Date: 25th - 29th May, 2017 (2nd May bank holiday)

Price: Double room (sharing) 650 GBP / person. Single room - 799 GBP 

/ A flight for which we arranging transport:

We have found great flights from London to Vilnius (Lithuania). Departure from London (STN) | Thu 25 May | 19:00 h and coming back on Mon 29 May | 17:50 h. Price from 103 £. The easiest way to book your flight via www.skyscanner.com

Enjoy several days in a private estate overflowing with lakeside charm and lovingly looked after by the owners.

More details about the retreat and booking by the link 

Vilnius Wellness City Guide by Retreats I Love

Vilnius is the kind of city people visit and fall in love with. Being the capital of Lithuania, it is one of the most beautiful cities in Central Europe that will enchant you with variety of cultural heritage, it’s magic and cosy atmosphere, a perfect harmony of architecture and natural landscape. Another charming side of this city, it’s elegant and cozy curved streets of the old town. When it comes to eating out in Vilnius, there's always something unique to try. 

So here it is, personal guide of Vilnius with few special spots we fell in love with. Print it and take it with you on your travels to discover some of our favourite places in this beautiful city.  

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/ TO EAT

/ TO SPA

/ TO YOGA/PILATES

TO SLEEP

- Relais & Chateaux Stikliai Hotel - boutique experience in the heart of Vilnius vibrant Old Town. As soon as you will step into this charming hotel you will travel back in time. Glorious historic building with terrific ambience. This is the hotel with history! With it’s outstanding and luxury decorated rooms, you will feel like a member of royal family. Should you decide to treat yourself with gorgeous living, wonderful food, perfect service - this is defiantly the place to stay. 

- Kempinski Hotel Cathedral Square - with the perfect location right on the Cathedral Square newly opened hotel is easy accessible to all attractions within walking distance. Luxury rooms and suites are elegant, spacious and wonderfully appointed. If available choose room with a cathedral view - you won’t be disappointed. After a long day you can relax in a wellness centre enjoying pool, jacuzzi, sauna and steam room. If you’re true foodie do not miss a chance to dine in hotel’s Restaurant Telegrafas. An elegant dining atmosphere with incredible European gastronomy, offering a subtle balance between history and modernity with a relaxed atmosphere overlooking the picturesque Vilnius Cathedral Square.

- Shakespeare Hotel - charming boutique hotel situated in a cozy street of the old town. For those who search for inspiration it is an ideal oasis of peace, for those who search for the bustle of a city – the most beautiful places of Vilnius are just a few hundred meters away. A unique experience where everything from the decor to the old time atmosphere makes it special. The rooms are spacious and individually decorated, named after different authors. From the minute you walk in until you leave you'll feel warm and welcomed. 

TO EAT 

- Marche de Provence - a cozy French restaurant in the heart of the old town. Restaurant offers fine balance between atmosphere and dining experience, everything you order is first class and beautifully presented. Restaurant to remember, exquisite gourmet cuisine where each course like a work of art- try the creme brûlée for a real surprise in presentation.

- Kitchen - located in the city centre, in front of the City Hall square, contemporary scandinavian style interior creates a nice urban style dining ambience. The quality of food, great atmosphere with very pleasant service. Menu offers rich selection of Mediterranean cuisine, fish and vegetarian options. 

Good idea to make a table reservation in advance. If you are in Vilnius, you should definitely try it. 

- Panama Garden - located just 5 min driving from the Vilnius old town but the drive if worth it. An authentic atmosphere of an old house, garden and greenhouse (where you actually can have your dinner) makes this spot special. Your dining experience will start with a home made bread which is absolutely amazing. Specialty of this restaurant is sea food, try the seafood soup, fish of the day or mussels. Early reservation is needed if you want to enjoy the table in the garden.

- Sugamour - marvellous dessert boutique in the old town of Vilnius. It’s a sweet tooth heaven! A must visit place for coffee, breakfast and variety of delightful cakes and desserts which all look like a piece of art. Elegant interior with a modern touch makes it a place where you want to enjoy your dessert with a cup of coffee / tea slowly with all the delightful pleasure.

TO SPA 

- Luxury SPA at Kempinski Hotel - Relax and indulge yourself in a carefully selected range of beauty and massage treatments at exclusive Kempinski The Spa. Soothing treatment rooms, relaxation space, indoor pool, fitness area, Finnish and steam saunas - an oasis of relaxation and rejuvenation. Luxuriate for a few tranquil moments or the entire day, enjoying exceptional treatments and unmatched service.

- SPA Vilnius - a day SPA, established in the heart of Vilnius town, you can enjoy a wide range of different treatments that are carried out by experienced SPA specialists, acknowledged in Lithuania and the Baltic states. Offering an especially wide spectrum of massages, beauty treatments and day packages this place is a perfect choice to relax, rejuvenate and restore. 

- SPA Esperanza - an oasis of relaxation, located in green forest of Aukštadvaris National Park, in Trakai, around 35 km from Vilnius. SPA Esperanza offers exceptional peace and luxury to anyone seeking to avoid distraction and dedicate some time to oneself. Here you can expect not only profound relaxation but also unique treatments with exceptional devices in entire Eastern European region available only here. Such as: Cloud 9 - a holistic treatment bed that enables full relaxation of the body and soul, a much-needed experience in the face of daily tensions, stress, and intense emotions. Amphibia massage bed - to revive and strengthen the body. Innovative, using special technologies and adapted to the natural traits of the human body, they will make your rest unforgettable, leaving you with only the best impressions.

TO YOGA / PILATES 

- Flow and Glow - yoga studio located in the city centre. Nice and cozy studio with professional and lovely teachers. Offers variety of yoga classes different time of the day. 

- Diva Namai - new concept of fitness centre, which is small and cozy to make you feel at home. The idea of the founder was to create new space for various fitness, yoga or pilates activities which would help clients to relax after the busy day and enjoy their practise. Here you can choose from different yoga, pilates, body interval or even ballet classes. 

- The Mai Ram Yoga Ashram - located in the heart of the old town this place is called Ashram as it combines few aspects of wellness: yoga practice, small healthy cafe and tea room. People gather at the ashram to gain the knowledge of yoga teaching, which helps to preserve health, develop awareness and nurture spiritual values. 

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You can combine exploring Vilnius with our September Swan Lake Seduction retreat in beautiful Lithuania. It’s a perfect weekend getaway, just 140km from Vilnius in a private Lake House, surrounded by the virgin pine forest. Relax and reset your mind, enjoying yoga/pilates and seducing yourself with the original wilderness of an idyllic landscape. 

Date: 14th - 18th September, 2016 

Price: from 625 GBP, 5 days

To find out more & to book Swan Lake Seduction Retreat follow this link

Bali Wellness City Guide by Retreats I Love

Our first Wellness City Guide is dedicated to Bali - island of the Gods, with its varied landscape of hills and mountains, rugged coastlines and sandy beaches, lush rice terraces, warm & friendly people and a vibrant culture. 

We are excited to share our favourite places to help you to experience Bali with a wellness touch.

/ TO SLEEP
/ TO EAT
/ TO SPA
/ TO YOGA/PILATES

TO SLEEP

- Five Elements - As soon as you will arrive you will feel like entering another world. In peace and harmony with nature, remotedly nestled on the banks of the Ayung River, this exceptional place is an award-winning eco-conscious retreat deeply rooted in the ancient traditions of Bali, making it a wellness sanctuary to embrace authentic Balinese Healing, Living Foods and Sacred Arts.

- COMO Shambhala Estate, Bali - a true ‘Retreat for Change’ with resident experts including a yoga teacher, Ayurvedic doctor and residence dietician. The holistic, 360-degree approach offers signature massage therapies and beauty treatments. Nutritionally balanced cuisine and outdoor activities make the most of the Estate’s unique location.

- Bambu Inda - a radically distinctive boutique hotel, carefully curated by John and Cynthia Hardy. Eleven antique Javanese bridal homes were brought to Bali, restored, and decorated with the finest details. Now, Bambu Indah is available to travelers from around the world seeking unique experiences while being comforted by the luxury of a natural environment and service of an intimate hotel.



TO EAT 

In Ubud:

- Moksa - a fully SENSUAL dining experience from exploding your taste buds with extraordinary food options, to opening your eyes in an ambience of raw elegance. Restaurant offers raw and cooked, vegetarian cuisine, organic wine, local coffees, teas and healthy elixirs. Concept from farm to table: the actual operational permaculture organic farm in direct proximity to the restaurant. 

- Alchemy - 100% raw vegan cafe & juice bar, organic health food store, and holistic clinic. The salad bar is where you will be spoiled for choice by an array of raw greens, fruits, cashew cheeses and salad dressings. Their raw chocolates, pies and cakes are so rich and smooth, it is hard to believe they are made without refined sugar, dairy or gluten. 

- Clear Cafe - The food is simply delicious. A litany of smoothies, juices, and a variety of raw options for all three meals of day plus dessert make this a foodie’s paradise. Plenty of raw and cooked options. They also have a little shop out front called Clear Express that carries raw granola, superfoods such as goji berries and cacao powder, home made energy bars, a host of chocolate superfood concoctions and many other tasty treats.

- Bali Buda - The restaurant is cozy with a friendly atmosphere, and the diverse menu even hints that the lack of wifi will improve your dining experience. Many tasty juices and smoothies to pick from, a decent number of raw options, Bali Buddha is a great choice when you’re hankering for a healthy meal. You can also get raw cashew, sunflower seed and walnut mylk made and bottled on the spot.

- The Seeds of Life - Very popular for it’s raw vegan desserts, this place is off the  charts for food innovation and attention to detail. Combines the elements of fun, flavor, vibrancy and integrity through Raw Living Foods. Mexican raw lasagna is the best in town. And you can’t leave the place without trying divine raw desserts. 

- Cafe Organic - Cafe Organic is a Health food, vegetarian cafe serving Organic, Raw & Vegan locally farmed produce. This little place is absolutely delightful! They offer excellent organic breakfast, amazing juices, smoothies and coconut bowls.. All of the food is organic and amazingly presented… Café Organic support ethically run farms by sourcing locally produced organic goods and farming in the Café Organic Gardens. It is open till 4pm so do not miss your breakfast / brunch for a great start of the day! 

TO SPA

- Wellness Retreat at Como Shambhala Estate Bali - as an award-winning Bali wellness resort, COMO Shambhala Estate takes a uniquely holistic approach. The pampering treatments of a conventional destination spa are woven into a personal Wellness Programme, allowing to us to provide a more complete, 360-degree experience closely tailored to your needs—with experts in different modalities, from yoga to Ayurveda.

- Fivelements, Puri Ahimsa - awarded wellness destination deeply rooted in the island’s ancient traditions. Holistic therapies are inspired by the Balinese way of life, which encourages one to nurture a greater harmony with spirit. Healing rituals include a combination of meditation, deep bodywork and prana energy, performed by talented healers. The spa offers traditional beauty rituals, sacred arts healing and Balinese blessing ceremonies. 

- Karsa SPA in Ubud - Surrounded by the rice fields, tranquil setting away from the Ubud centre. This SPA is beautifully decorated with relaxing and peaceful atmosphere. Intuitive massage (1,5 h) is a combination of different techniques such as: Balinese, Swedish, Deep Tissue, Lomi-Lomi, Shiatsu, and Reiki is our favourite massage and must try while staying in Ubud. Other SPA and beauty treatments and rituals available either.

TO YOGA / PILATES 

In Ubud: 

- Radiantly Alive was founded by world-renowned yoga teacher, writer and Human Potential Coach, Daniel Aaron. He is part of many trainings at Radiantly Alive and teaching himself 2 classes per week. Yoga studio offers different yoga / pilates classes, some of them with playful touch as fly high yoga on the belts and yoga dance. If you want to add something new to your daily routine, try salsa dance class or acro yoga. If that’s not enough you can choose from various workshops and trainings organised at the studio.  

- The Yoga Barn - Located in the heart of Ubud, The Yoga Barn is SE Asia's full service yoga studio, holistic healing retreat center. Coupled with a spiritual vibe, The Yoga Barn is at once earthy and rustic, relaxing, friendly and unpretentious. Various classes and workshops available daily. The Yoga Barn also contains an established Holistic Healing center that includes, Ayurvedic Rejuvenation, Cleansing & Detox retreats, Sound Medicine, Chinese Medicine, Acupuncture, Chiropractic, Naturopathy and much, much more.

- Ubud Pilates - hidden away in Penestanan, small boutique studio provides an intimate, private and unique space. A secluded sanctuary for your mind, your body and your spirit. 

In Sanur: 

- The Power of Now Oasis - located straight on the Sanur beach Eco friendly – Bamboo Yoga Studio offering yoga and meditation classes, yoga teacher training, yoga and meditation health retreats and holistic treatments. Traditionally constructed entirely from bamboo and inspired by the green turtle, our multi-purpose centre features an open plan design. Set in a tranquil garden among beautiful shady trees, in front of the beach yoga center provides a welcoming space for practice, relaxation and rejuvenation. 

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We hope that this Bali Wellness City Guide by Retreats I Love will help you to explore new destination, nourish your body and mind and soak up the beauty of a new experience. Print it off and take it with you on your travels to discover some of our favourite places.

Or you can join Exotic Bali Escape organised by us which starts on the 19th of February, 2017. This getaway is special from the beginning to  the end as it’s full of magic, beauty, harmony and authentic touch. It’s more than just a new destination, more than a holiday, it’s unforgettable lifetime experience…

Dates: 19th Feb - 01st March, 2017
Price: from 1989 GBP, 10 nights.

To find out more & to book Exotic Bali Retreat follow this link

Wellness Travel City Guides by Retreats I Love

“Retreats I love” has been found for you to discover your little inner love affairs. For beautiful places, breathtaking spaces, mouthful of tastes, unforgettable experiences, and oh so many other great life treasures. 

If you’re motivated by desire for relaxation, tranquility, inner rejuvenation or simply an authentic local experience our Wellness Travel City guides are for you. 

The art of nomadism brought us to beautiful places we fell in love with and we’re excited to share. While planning new voyage we are looking for special places, peaceful and unique, remotedly located or settled in a beautiful surrounding. By special we mean hidden little paradises, places with a soul, which always has a story or amazing people behind. 

Discovering new destination is not only about feeding your eyes with breathtaking views, mind with unforgettable experiences but also nourishing and rejuvenating your body. Thats why while travelling we are always looking for yoga or pilates options at the hotel or the best studios around the area. Food is another big thing which is extremely important while exploring new destinations. Slow food as a slow traveling is becoming a big part of wellness vacation. That’s why we will be sharing our favouyrite dining places, while paying a special attention to healthy food, quality and freshness, local ingredients and slow eating pleasure. And of course, there is no holiday without a proper massage or a beauty procedure.. with local touch or a unique place perfect for a little pampering session while enjoying your holidays. 

With each city guide we will share places WE LOVE to inspire your wellness while traveling.

TO EAT
TO SLEEP
TO SPA
TO YOGA/PILATES

 ©By Retreats I Love

Guidelines with love coming soon! We hope that our new project - Wellness Travel City Guides will help you to explore new destinations, nourish your body and mind and soak up the beauty of a new experience. 

/ IT’S A LOVE AFFAIR THAT IS WORTH SHARING / 

2hrs Pilates Welcome Summer Workshop @Egoist Body Studios | London

We have waited for the spring so long, that did not notice that summer is around the corner. We all want to feel great & look good for the upcoming holiday & beach season.. If you are in London, let’s meet up for the 2 hrs Pilates Workshop with Lina and Becky at Egoist Body Studios, London. Challenging yet fun evening smartly choreographed to work all the body and finish with a gentle guided meditation.

When:
/ Monday, May 16th 7:00-9:00 with Lina
/ Monday, May 23rd 7:00-9:00 with Becky 

Where: Egoist Body Studios

Hosted by: Lina Petraityte, founder of RiL & Becky Uden, pilates

To make it more fun we are teaming up with Makarawear – a European surf brand directed at active women! Everyone who joins the Workshop gets a chance to win a Yogi Sporty Top which is perfect not only for yoga/pilates classes but also for your beach holidays. A very tight multi-task sporty bra X-shaped at the back formed of four slim elastics and one wide elastic around your body. A guarantee that your sport sessions in or out the water will be even better.
All you have to do is share this news with your friends and join us for one of the workshops (16th or 23rd May). Everyone joining us not only feel the power of challenging poses but also has a change to win Yogi Sporty top by Makarawear. Isn’t it perfect treat to welcome your holiday season?

About the studios

Egoist Body Studios (egoistbody.com) has been conceived as a boutique studio offering a wide range of classes including yoga, pilates & ballet sculpt. 

Located in a majestic Georgian townhouse in one of London's quietest and most beautiful square gardens, Fitzroy Square W1, just minutes away from the West End, Egoist Body offers a peaceful, versatile, and elegant  vintage shabby chic space – a complete alternative to mainstream gyms.

Its concept makes working out an enjoyable experience perfect substitute for people who love to be fit but enjoy an individual, warm welcome in a dreamy home like ambience.

About the hosts

Lina Petraityte

Founder of Egoist Body studios & Retreats I Love 

In a hectic city like London it is so easy to forget yourself and your body and one can easily feel lonely. So we created a concept that is new and simple – a gym that feels like a second home so one feels part of a community. Egoist Body Studios, its concept and décor, aim to provide you with this exact experience.

Retreats I Love was born with intention to take this beautiful community to retreats organised by me worldwide. I turn my passion for travel into unwinding experience for you.

Becky Uden

I have been practicing Pilates for the last 6 years, my passion for it really developing after a snowboarding accident and referral from my physio – it was then that I became hooked.

Practicing Pilates has become a daily addiction; it’s a great form of movement and has so many benefits… Physically it has completely transformed my body, keeping me lean and healthy. Mentally, it has given me the patience and focus to tackle my often-frenetic life.  It also complements my other passion, horse riding.

My love and appreciation for Pilates has led me to teaching, after studying and qualifying with the J Pilates team. My mentor Joanne Cobbe’s knowledge, enthusiasm and love for Pilates was so infectious, reconfirming to me that I was on the right path.

When I’m not doing Pilates, I can be found in the countryside with my beautiful horse Gorron, or snowboarding in the winter months. 

Book Pilates Workshop by the link