Vidal Dante
Indonesian hospitality thrives on a subtle combination of attentiveness and intuition, creating moments that are both thoughtful and relaxed.
It’s not just about service; it’s about connection, a quiet understanding of what brings comfort or joy. This attentiveness is built into everyday interactions, from staff placing flowers on your pillow to instinctively refilling a half-empty glass and offering sweet watermelon as you sit on a sun lounger. This kind of hospitality is an art form that is both personal and universally appealing.
It’s this sense of connection that makes conversations with locals so rich. When meeting Balinese people working in shops or resorts, the first thing I usually ask is: “Where is your village?” This simple question often opens a window into their lives and experiences. The typical answer is: “Oh, far away.”
This is because many Balinese leave their villages to work in tourist areas such as towns (think hotspots like Kuta and Seminyak), and the income they earn is sent back to support their families, contribute to community expenses, or Help maintain traditional rural life.
Yet the response I received for the first time in thirty years of visiting the island was: “It’s right there.”
It happened on the ship when a deck crew member pointed to a village across the bay where he was working at Plataran Menjangan. I soon realized that this was no coincidence but a conscious strategy by the resort owners who prioritized community development as well as environmental and cultural preservation.
In fact, on my eight-night spa and wellness trip through Bali and Labuan Bajo, the gateway to the UNESCO-protected Komodo National Park, Prataran IndonesiaIt’s clear that this impact-driven hospitality business seamlessly integrates nature, culture and community into its offering.
Think floating sound baths surrounded by endangered birds and wandering wild deer, Melukat water blessing ceremonies that segue into frangipani spa treatments, somatic yoga classes overlooking mangroves, and massage rooms with volcano views.
Enhance the recovery power of treatment
Founded in 2009 by Yozua and Dewi Makes, Plataran quickly became a well-known brand in Indonesia, redefining excellence in sustainable tourism. As faculty members at Indonesian universities, they advocate tourism as the most effective way to provide informal education to Indonesians.
The vision behind Plataran spa and wellness treatments is to provide guests with a holistic experience that revitalizes their overall well-being. With over 14 years of experience in the wellness industry, the team is committed to providing top-notch service, led by seasoned professionals including Corporate Spa Manager Martino Amaral.
“These include spa treatments, yoga classes, meditation and breathing exercises, all designed to help guests find relaxation and inner peace,” explains Amaral. “Plataran’s wellness services are set in a peaceful and scenic natural environment, designed to create a peaceful getaway for guests, allowing them to fully recharge and leave feeling refreshed. This combination of expert care and natural beauty embodies This reflects our commitment to providing guests with wellness experiences they can’t find anywhere else.”
Each destination blends bespoke treatments with the stunning beauty of Indonesia’s natural and cultural heritage, striving to deliver a truly extraordinary experience.
“Our ‘Padma Spas’ are located in some of the most scenic and iconic locations, offering guests an experience that goes far beyond the usual,” said Amaral. “Imagine getting a massage while admiring views of the sea, ancient temples, majestic mountains, or even aboard a private boat, surrounded by tranquil forests or the open sea. Each location adds a sense of place and wonder that enhances The restorative power of our treatment.”
What sets Plataran apart is its commitment to preserving the past while pioneering the future, creating unique experiences that are both deeply rooted in local tradition and refreshingly new.
For example, one of their signature treatments uses volcanic stones from Mount Merapi in Central Java. As part of the massage experience, these stones are expertly used to enhance blood circulation and relax tense muscles. This thoughtful approach ensures that each treatment is not only soothing, but deeply rooted in the natural and cultural elements of the area.
Then there’s Plataran Menjangan’s floating sound bath healing treatment, where guests float on an airbed that floats on the surface of the pool. Soothing sound frequencies, including the harmonious tones of Tibetan singing bowls and the rhythmic melodies of gamelan, a traditional Indonesian percussion group, resonate in the water, enhancing the sensory experience.
What made the moment even more magical was the sight of critically endangered birds dancing overhead, which the resort is actively working to protect through the Bali Starling Sanctuary Program.
“Combined with our professional therapists who are extensively trained in traditional and modern techniques, Plataran Komodo offers a rich and unforgettable wellness experience, ensuring that even the most seasoned travelers experience something truly extraordinary,” he explained.
The treatment menu at Padma Spa has been carefully curated using locally sourced ingredients such as Indonesian spices and herbs prized for their healing properties. These natural elements not only provide effective skin care benefits, but also allow guests to immerse themselves in the rich aromas and textures of the region.
“We also incorporate Indonesia’s stunning natural landscape into wellness experiences, drawing inspiration from the Balinese philosophy of living in harmony with nature,” explains Amaral. “Guests can enjoy a massage on the beach, on a boat surrounded by the ocean, or with views of the majestic mountains. Meditation amidst tranquil rice fields, yoga amidst lush forests, and sound healing rituals above serene ponds, Further enhancing the connection with the natural environment.”
Environmental protection, cultural preservation and community welfare
While wild deer and monkeys roam freely around Prataram Manjaganacross the Sea of Flores Plataran Komodo Dragona short boat ride away is Komodo National Park. Considered one of the world’s 25 biodiversity hotspots, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the Komodo dragon, a relative of the Australian lace monitor. together with platalambromoThese three National Park Trails are part of a collection of National Park Trails that take visitors into the heart of the archipelago.
But how on earth does a hotel group like Plataran operate in a fragile protected area?
To establish and operate an IPPA (Natural Tourism Environmental Services Permit) in a national park, an RPPA (Natural Tourism Master Plan) must be developed, followed by an RKL (Environmental Management Plan), which is further clarified in the RKT (RKT). annual work plan). Details of the construction project, design, area, location and other technical details must be approved by the Ministry of Environment, including details of Plataran’s day-to-day operations.
Hotel and resort operations must comply with all technical guidelines and instructions for the implementation of IPPA as stipulated by the Ministry of Environment. These operations are monitored and supervised by West Bali National Park, with annual inspections and evaluations. Among other requirements, monthly and annual reports, financial reports and RKLs for the following year must be prepared.
Bali has recently put a moratorium on hotel and villa construction to protect valuable farmland, but Plataran Komodo’s commitment to environmental protection, cultural preservation and community welfare has become a draw for tourists.
Support ecotourism and sustainable development
Resorts are increasingly enhancing the guest experience by incorporating water-based services to foster connections with nearby communities. Plataran Menjangan reflects this by introducing visitors to local landmarks such as Banyuwedang Hot Spring.
Located in the center of the village of Pejarakan in northern Bali, these geothermal springs have been loved by villagers for more than a century and are rich in minerals, have a low pH and are thought to nourish the skin. By showcasing this authentic experience, Plataran encourages guests to meaningfully engage with the local culture – one that values water as a sacred element – while promoting ecotourism and sustainability.
The initiative also provides economic and cultural support to the local community, reinforcing Plataran’s wider mission of “impactful hospitality”. By blending luxury with respect for nature and tradition, these immersive wellness opportunities also foster a sense of conservation and appreciation of local heritage.
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