Boracay has recently got a bad rap. Locals with the common complaint of overcrowding from tourists, mom and pop bakeries replaced by McDonalds and Pizza Huts, and beautiful beaches speckled with liter from last night’s party. All of these signs force you to believe this island may have already seen it’s prime. Then you arrive at the Mandala Spa and Resort on the south side of the island, and everything starts to feel right again.

This lush and luxurious oasis with a health-conscious vibe is nestled in the hilltop of the up-and-coming Station 3. From the digital detox garden bungalows to the spa-like pool villas with sweeping views of the pristine beaches below, this family run resort is equally as intimate as it is comfortable.

Mornings brought in with fresh squeezed mango juice, quinoa pancakes, and homemade granola made me question if I somehow transported to a boutique hotel in West Hollywood. The well-appointed spa, daily yoga in the expansive onsite studio, and friendly staff create the perfect escape from all the hustle and bustle of busy streets below.

We lounged by the infinity pool, played our favorite tunes, ate healthy snacks, did yoga, got massages, and finally felt like we were feeling and seeing the simple magic that this island has to offer. From the warm smiles from the happy staff, to the way the garden lights wink at your on the way to your room… this resort is more than just a hotel, it’s a fully immersive escape.

By the time my feet hit the warm water of my spiced citrus bath, I had been traveling by planes, trains, and automobiles for over eight hours. With my morning commute starting in the chaotic city of Bangkok, it’s no wonder my body and mind were craving a secluded, spa-like oasis in the heart of bohemian Seminyak. Twenty minutes after our driver picked us up from the Denpasar airport, we turned down the cobblestone path lined with bamboo that led to The Amala Resort.

After checking in at the front desk, we were taken to the spa area and given a complimentary massage, while our bags were being brought to the room. These small thoughtful nuances, defined what a luxurious resort should embody. Whether it was the daily changeout of local tropical fruit in the morning, with information and even sometimes eating instructions, to the wide assortment of oils, soaps, lotions, and cremes available in endless supply to enjoy both in the private outdoor plunge bath or the steam shower (both conveniently located within the complex of our Spa Villa) was merely the icing on the cake.

Being a yoga enthusiast, I was ecstatic to learn that the resort held a 90 minute yoga session every morning at 8am. After stretching, bending, and holding poses in the rising morning heat, I was always fully ready to indulge in the inclusive breakfast spread. I opted for one juice and one smoothie everyday, as I find it helps me fight any bugs I may have caught on the plane, jet lag, while giving me energy and hydration for the day. I also varied my selections each morning ranging from avo eggs on toast to organic yogurt muesli and fresh fruit.

After these filling meals we would spend the days lounging on the sun beds, going for a skinny dip in our private plunge pool, or sneaking away on our rented scooter to catch the sunset on the beach. No matter what was on the daily agenda, coming back to our own little stand alone safe haven was one of the most refreshing feelings when traveling so far away from the comforts of home.

This was the first stop during our 12 day stay in Bali, and it started the trip off on just the right note. With an incredibly attentive staff, helping us organize not only our scooter rental, and spa appointments but also a few beach excursions, and a property that is close enough to the beach but far enough out of the way to feel secluded, these private villas are the perfect way to explore all that Seminyak has to offer.