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Going Natural: Bali Wellness Products We Love

10 Aug 2026 by Bella

Going Natural: Bali Wellness Products We Love Image

Bali Wellness Products

More and more people are turning to natural personal care these days (myself included), and I don’t think it’s just a passing trend anymore. Once you make the switch, you really start to notice the difference – from the ingredients you’re putting on your skin to how your skin feels and responds over time.

Bali has always been such a great place to discover natural wellness brands, with homegrown labels creating products inspired by the island’s connection to nature. There are many to choose from, but these are a few that the Kata Bella team has curated. Each one has something that makes them special, and of course, we have our favourites too! From super-soft natural soap bars and skincare for sensitive skin, to products for babies and teenagers, yoga mat sprays, and even home cleaning products, there’s something for everyone and every purpose.

Switching to natural products in Bali is easier than you might think, and they also make lovely presents for your loved ones. So, we hope you like our list, and find something you love too!

You may also like this article: Get Crafty – 8 Creative Classes and Workshops in Bali

Bali Soap

From the name, you can probably guess that their soap bars are the main stars of the show. I know using a bar of soap might sound a little old-school these days, but wait until you try theirs. They’re seriously smooth and creamy! Their soaps are made using the cold-process method, which basically means the ingredients are mixed without high heat, which keeps more of their natural oils and goodness. The bars come in nice tropical scents and are packed with natural ingredients to help keep your skin hydrated. They’re also free from harsh chemicals and parabens, making them gentle enough for all skin types and even suitable for your face. They also have other products like hand cream, body butter, deodorant, and liquid body wash.

⭐️ Kata Bella’s favourites: Jasmine, lemongrass, and passion fruit soap bars, chocolate body butter.

Bali wellness products - Bali Soap

Image credit: Bali Soap Indonesia Instagram page

Bamboo Tiger

Their soap bars come in lovely dusty pastel shades, and some in fun rainbow patterns, making shower time a little more fun. They also have a whole range of products with illipe butter as the star moisturising ingredient, using essential oil blends instead of synthetic fragrances. The scents range from fresh herbs and cooling peppermint to warm spices and zesty citrus. The range also includes a vegan-friendly lip balm, geranium & bergamot body cream, a rosemary & kukui hair mask, and virgin coconut oil – all made with natural, nourishing ingredients.

⭐️ Kata Bella’s favourites: Orange and peppermint soap bar, wood and spices illipe butter soap bar

Bali wellness products - Bamboo Tiger

Image credit: Bamboo Tiger Instagram page

Cocona Care

They pretty much do all things coconut, from virgin coconut oil and shower gel to body lotion, body scrub, body cream, shampoo, and conditioner. So if you’re crazy about coconut, this is definitely the one for you! Everything is coconut-focused, making it a great little present too if you want to bring home a slice of the tropics.

⭐️ Kata Bella’s favourites: Virgin coconut oil

Bali wellness products - Cocona

Image credit: Cocona Care Instagram page

You may also like this article: Vegan Cafes in Canggu – 5 Nice Spots for Your Daily Greens

Boemi Botanicals

They have a pretty wide range of products, from soap bars and shampoo to body lotions, massage oils, pure natural oils, and scented candles. I’ve come across their products quite a few times at events too, where they’re often included in hampers, or they’ll set up a pop-up where you can create your own scented body oil. It’s such a nice little experience and makes the product feel a bit more personal! We also love how they name their collections in Bahasa Indonesia, like Matahari Pagi (morning sun), Rempah (spices/herbs), and Senja (dusk) – simple, beautiful, and very Indonesian.

⭐️ Kata Bella’s favourites: Serai wangi (lemongrass) scented candle, senja body lotion

Bali wellness products - Boemi botanicals

Image credit: Boemi Botanicals Instagram page

Sensatia Botanicals

You’ve probably seen their shops in many locations around Bali, especially in shopping centres. They have pretty much everything your body could need, with natural skincare products from head to toe. But what really stands out, aside from the products themselves, is their range for everyone from babies and kids to teenagers and adults – and they even a dedicated men’s collection. The thoughtful packaging is not only lovely to look at, but also makes their products great little gifts for friends and family.

⭐️ Kata Bella’s favourites: Lemongrass and mandarine body scrub, tea tree and lemon facial scrub

Bali wellness products - Sensatia

Image credit: Sensatia Botanicals Instagram page

Utama Spice

Started in 1989, this brand has grown into a much bigger range of natural products over the years. It’s not just about skincare either – they now also make everyday household essentials like dish soap, laundry soap, linen spray, yoga mat spray, and multipurpose spray. And if you’re trying to be a little more eco-friendly, they also offer refills that come in aluminium packaging, so you can reuse your bottles instead of constantly buying new ones.

⭐️ Kata Bella’s favourites: Cocoa lip balm, tangerine body lotion

Bali wellness products - Utama spice

Instagram page: Utama Spice Instagram page

And that’s our little round-up for now! There are definitely more Bali wellness products out there that deserve some love, so this won’t be the last of our discoveries. If you know a local brand we should check out, send it our way!

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A Nostalgic Escape: Where to Stay and Eat in Yogyakarta Image

28 Jul 2026 by Teman Bella in Asia

A Nostalgic Escape: Where to Stay and Eat in Yogyakarta

NOSTALGIC TRAVEL TO YOGYAKARTA - an article by Anne Diana Putri Eight years later, I came back for ArtJog (annual contemporary art festival in Yogyakarta) - but stayed for everything else. Eight years. That's how long it had been since my last trip to Yogyakarta - or Jogja, as Indonesians lovingly call it. Funny how a city can stay frozen in your memory, only to surprise you when you finally return. This time, my excuse was ArtJog. But somewhere between gallery hopping, bowls of gudeg (Yogyakarta's signature jackfruit dish) at breakfast, sipping specialty coffee, discovering century-old jamu (herbal drink) recipes, and taking the slow train to Solo, I realised I wasn't revisiting Yogyakarta. I was meeting a completely different version of it. Flying from Bali takes only one hour and fifty minutes - almost the same as flying to Jakarta. Yet somehow, the moment I stepped outside the airport, life immediately moved at a different pace. The new Yogyakarta International Airport feels modern, spacious, and surprisingly efficient. A direct airport train takes only thirty minutes to downtown for IDR 75,000, making the city more accessible than ever. But what fascinated me wasn't the infrastructure. It was how confidently Jogja has grown. For years, people have known it simply as Kota Pelajar (the city of students). Today? I'd call it Indonesia's Creative Capital. A place where heritage and contemporary culture coexist effortlessly. Traditional markets sit comfortably beside minimalist cafés. Ancient recipes share the spotlight with experimental tasting menus. Artists, coffee roasters, chefs, historians, and young entrepreneurs all seem to speak the same language: "Create something meaningful." Unlike Jakarta, which constantly asks you to move faster, or Bali, which often feels curated for visitors, Jogja simply exists. Quietly. Confidently. Authentically. And perhaps that's exactly why it keeps pulling people back. You may also like this article: 5 Co-working Spaces in Jogja to Get Things Done WHERE I STAYEDGrand Hotel de DjokjaCasa Wirabrajan LOCAL EATERIESGudeg SaganSate Kambing Tjokro Gembira LokaPasar NgasemCOFFEE SHOPSBergamot KoffieSpace RoasteryTadasih CoffeeINDONESIAN SPICE & HERBAL MEDICINE STOREBhumi BhuvanaJamu GinggangHotel Tentrem Pattiserie INTERNATIONAL RESTAURANT & LATE NIGHT GELATO CRAVEMediterranea Restaurant by KamilMichael Kreme Gelato Malioboro WHERE I STAYED Grand Hotel de Djokja If you're visiting Jogja for the first time, this is probably where I'd tell you to stay. The location couldn't be better - perfectly positioned between Tugu Station and Malioboro, allowing you to explore the city's heritage on foot. One experience I particularly loved was the hotel's traditional portrait session. Guests can wear Javanese kebaya and beskap (traditional attire) while being photographed inside the heritage property. It sounds touristy, and it is - but in the best possible way. Sometimes embracing local culture begins by simply dressing the part. 📍Google Map: Grand Hotel de Djokja Casa Wirabrajan  If ArtJog is your main destination, Casa Wirabrajan offers an entirely different experience. Simple, affordable, and surrounded by creative energy, it's located in the same area of the Jogja National Museum. The neighborhood has quietly evolved into one of the city's most interesting creative districts, filled with cafés, local eateries, live music, and artists gathering long after sunset. 📍Google Map: Casa Wirabrajan From left to right: Grand Hotel de Djokja Heritage, Casa Wirabrajan, and Jogja National Museum area LOCAL EATERIES Gudeg Sagan Locals call it "gudeg basah" (wet gudeg). Established in 2003, it brought fresh love to Jogja’s iconic gudeg, since the city’s version is normally the dry type. You can’t make a reservation - just find a table and a server will come to you. They have two branches across Jogja, and yes, it’s completely normal to eat gudeg for breakfast here.  📍Google Map: Gudeg Sagan Sate Kambing Tjokro Gembira Loka Famous for Sate Buntel, Sate Kronyos, and Sate Klathak (different types of mutton satays) - the most satisfying meal and the ultimate protein load.  📍Google Map: Sate Kambing Tjokro Gembira Loka Pasar Ngasem A traditional market famous among locals for legendary eateries, such as: Jenang Yu Jamilah (Jamilah's sweet porridge), Warung Makan Bu Sirep (Sirep's eatery), Gudeg Yu Djum (Djum's gudeg), and other iconic Javanese delicacies. Pro tip: come to this market as early as 7am, stroll around, and try the food and drinks - then walk to Tamansari, the water temple, to explore the landmark.  📍Google Map: Pasar Ngasem From left to right: Sate Kambing Tjokro Gembira Loka and Gudeg Sagan COFFEE SHOPS Bergamot Koffie A new, chic spot with a vibrant interior and some of the best dirty coffee I’ve had in Jogja - plus a good burger if you’re hungry and missing something comforting.  📍Google Map: Bergamot Koffie Space Roastery A local chain with 6 branches across Jogja - each with a different mood and ambiance, but consistent coffee at every branch I visited. Their signature is Es Kopi Susu Dolce (sweet iced coffee), along with manual brews, and you can take away merch and coffee beans too.  📍Google Map: Space Roastery CCC Tadasih Coffee A unique boutique coffee shop run by Mas Ferza himself. It only has 17 seats and opens just four days a week, so check Google to make sure they’re open. Ferza is a passionate host who offers 8 types of coffee beans from around Indonesia and beyond, with specialty coffee priced from just 35K per cup. As unbelievable as it sounds, he even publishes a monthly transparency book for Tadasih, covering how much of each bean has sold, average prices, and how many origins he covers. His mission is simply to turn regular guests into friends through genuine conversation - and please, order the toast, it’s incredible.  📍Google Map: Langenarjan 29 (RSVP only) From left to right: Space Roastery, Tadasih toast, Bergamot exterior INDONESIAN SPICE & HERBAL MEDICINE STORE Bhumi Bhuvana A very special place to discover rare ingredients from all over Indonesia, like sea salts from Bali, Cirebon, and Kalimantan, which you can taste on the spot - plus palm sugar from the Baduy people of Kalimantan. They offer a bookable walking tour, but you can also just pop in for the day and try the home-cooked meals the staff prepares daily, drawn straight from legendary Indonesian cookbooks like Mustika Rasa. The staff will welcome you warmly and guide you through a side of Indonesian gastronomy most of us never get to touch. The space is small, so give them a heads-up before you visit.  📍Google Map: Bhumi Bhuvana Jamu Ginggang Jamu is famous throughout Indonesia, and it was born in Java. This place is special because it’s run by the original acaraki, a Javanese herbalist once appointed by the city’s mayor, located in the Pakualaman area. Stepping in feels like traveling back to 1950, when this place was first established. Using real spices, you simply tell the lady at the counter how you’re feeling, and she’ll make you a bespoke jamu - in a world full of cocktail bars, this place existed long before the glitz. It’s a privilege to experience a place like this today, both as a homage and a history lesson.  📍Google Map: Jamu Ginggang Hotel Tentrem Pattiserie  The birthplace of Tolak Angin, Indonesia’s famous instant herbal medicine, this hotel lets you explore the brand’s other creations. In the lobby of Hotel Tentrem Jogja, you can enjoy an afternoon tea with Tolak Angin ice cream, takeaway chocolate pralines, and popsicles - all made from Tolak Angin. 📍Google Map: Hotel Tentrem Form left to right: Bhumi Bhuvana entrance and its collection, Jamu Ginggang INTERNATIONAL RESTAURANT & LATE NIGHT GELATO CRAVE Mediterranea Restaurant by Kamil One of the most visited restaurants for both international and domestic tourists. It offers an array of international dishes, from pizza to hummus to steak frites to chocolate mousse. The affordable prices are a highlight, but the food itself is genuinely good and consistent. It’s a fine casual dining restaurant with none of the intimidation that ambiance can sometimes bring. The wine of the month is excellent too, at half the price of Bali or Jakarta - Bordeaux included. Do make a reservation, though, or you won’t get a proper seat.  📍Google Map: Mediterranea Restaurant by Kamil Michael Kreme Gelato Malioboro A new gelato hotspot open until 2am - sounds like a good deal to me. The gelato itself is solid, but the bonus is the café next door, Blue Butter, which has a giant 4D cat installation with blinking eyes that draws crowds in for a photo. Quite a scene to stumble on in Jogja.  📍Google Map: Michael Kreme Gelato Malioboro Mediterranea Restaurant by Kamil Yogyakarta was everything I hoped it would be and more. From wandering through historic landmarks and hunting down local favourites to discovering hidden cafés and cultural gems, every day brought something new. But the journey doesn't end here. Next up, we're heading east to Solo, another city rich in Javanese culture, heritage, and unforgettable eats. Stay tuned for the next chapter of this Central Java adventure on my next article!

Get Crafty: 8 Creative Classes and Workshops in Bali Image

30 Jul 2026 by Bella in Lifestyle

Get Crafty: 8 Creative Classes and Workshops in Bali

8 Creative Classes and Workshops in Bali People come to Bali for so many different reasons - some for the beautiful nature, some for the beach clubs and nightlife, some for the incredible food scene, and many simply to slow down and enjoy the island lifestyle. But these days, there’s another experience that has been gaining popularity: creative workshops. Whether you’re visiting Bali or have been living on the island for years, joining a workshop can be a fun way to spend your weekend, learn something new, and create something with your own hands. From baking and cake decorating to flower arranging, perfume making, painting, and more, there are plenty of creative experiences to explore. We’ve put together a little collection of recommendations from friends who have tried and loved them. Hope you enjoy this list, and if you know any other creative workshops in Bali that we should check out and feature here, let us know! You may also like this article: Fun Communities in Bali for Every Kind of Lifestyle Volen Art SpaceKala LuangRumah RabbitMud HouseKultaraRumah TumbuhCake EmpireBunga Seni Volen Art Space They have a bunch of creative workshops happening every month, from painting and canvas embroidery to perfume making, batik painting, and scented candle making, and a lot more- all held in different locations around town. They also offer private workshops for special events and gatherings, perfect for birthdays, team activities, or just a creative get-together. Follow their Instagram page or visit their website for their latest workshop schedule and booking details. Image credit: Volen Art Space Instagram Kala Luang True to its name, Kala Luang (Indonesian for "when you have free time") creates fun and creative experiences to enjoy during your downtime. Their workshops range from craft activities like flower bouquet arrangement and perfume making to dessert-making sessions like mochi, cheesecake, and cookie making. With affordable prices and limited spots available for each session, make sure to book in advance. Follow their Instagram for their upcoming workshop schedule and details. Image credit: Kala Luang Instagram You may also like this article: Canggu Travel Guide - Surviving Bali's Busiest Neighbourhood Rumah Rabbit Rumah Rabbit is a house of art in Munggu offering a variety of art classes for adults, kids, and toddlers in small-group settings. From sketching and painting to hands-on creative sessions, every class is guided by experienced art teachers in a relaxed and welcoming environment. They also regularly host special workshops like rug tufting with guest tutors, and can organise artsy private events for birthdays, team gatherings, or other celebrations. Follow their Instagram to learn more. Image credit: Rumah Rabbit Instagram Mud House From the name, you can probably guess what Mud House is all about. It’s a pottery studio where you can get your hands dirty and explore the art of ceramics. Whether you're interested in hand-building, trying the pottery wheel, or painting your finished pieces, there's a class for every skill level. The workshops are available for both adults and kids, making it a fun activity for families, friends, or anyone looking to try something creative during their Bali holiday. Follow their Instagram to learn more. Image credit: Mud House Instagram Kultara If you're looking for a more authentic cultural experience in Bali, Kultara is well worth checking out. Every month, they host a line-up of art and cultural workshops that celebrate both traditional and contemporary creativity. You can join unique sessions like upcycled plastic jewellery making, linocut printing, pottery, and rattan weaving, or dive into Balinese traditions through nyurat lontar (palm leaf manuscript writing), Balinese dance, and gamelan classes. Follow their Instagram for full activity schedule and more information. Image credit: Kultara Instagram Rumah Tumbuh Translates to "House of Growth", Rumah Tumbuh it is a space created for women to learn, grow, and get creative together. Their workshops are all about trying something new in a relaxed and welcoming environment, with activities ranging from coaster decoupage and slow journaling to crochet and watercolour painting. Whether you're already a crafty person or picking up a paintbrush for the first time, it's a lovely way to discover a new hobby and make new friends along the way. Follow their Instagram for their upcoming workshop schedule and details. Image credit: Rumah Tumbuh Instagram You may also like this article: Creative Connections - 5 Bali-based Illustrators and Designers Cake Empire If you love baking and cake decorating, you’re going to love Cake Empire in Seminyak. Known for their beautiful custom cakes, they also run a range of creative workshops that are perfect to enjoy with friends and family. Learn how to create everything from Korean-style ribbon and bow cakes and elegant floral cakes to adorable 3D teddy sculpted cakes. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced cake enthusiast, there’s a class for every skill level, with plenty of designs and techniques to explore. Follow their Instagram page to discover their upcoming workshops, schedules, and detailed information. Image credit: Cake Empire Google page Bunga Seni If you're staying around Seseh, Munggu, or Nyanyi, Bunga Seni is worth checking out for a creative day out. Their flower workshops invite you to create your own bouquet while learning floral styling techniques in a relaxed and welcoming setting. It's the perfect excuse to slow down, get creative, and spend an evening surrounded by beautiful blooms and good company. Follow their Instagram page for workshop schedule and booking details. Image credit: Bunga Seni Instagram Hope you like this list, and hope it inspires you to start your own arts, crafts, or baking journey. Have another recommendation we should know about? Share it with us - your favourite creative spots could be featured next!

Swapping Beaches for Mountaintops: A Chilly Christmas in Bromo Image

10 Jan 2025 by Bella in Lifestyle

Swapping Beaches for Mountaintops: A Chilly Christmas in Bromo

"How cold is cold?" asked my husband, who’s from a country with single-digit temperatures, as I was packing for Bromo. At the time, I had no idea because I had never been. According to Google, it was around 14°C in December. I thought, "Okay, not too cold," and decided not to pack my winter jacket he told me to bring. I question my life decisions sometimes - as it turns out, it was very cold and windy in Bromo. Why We Chose Bromo for ChristmasOur Bromo Itinerary: Jeep Tours & Sunrise ViewsMidnight Pickup & Scary Jeep RideSunrise at Bromo: Two Viewing PointsWas Bromo Worth It? You may also like this article: Lokananta - Why This Musical Landmark is a Must-Visit in Solo Why We Chose Bromo for Christmas Alright, let’s start from the beginning - why was I going to Bromo? My big family always gets together for special occasions and holidays. It’s not always the full crew, but we make it a point to gather somewhere. Christmas is a major one, and we always go on a trip. Usually, it’s Bali or Yogyakarta. Last year, we skipped Bali because the high season is pure chaos - you can’t go anywhere without battling crowds. Yogyakarta is great, but we wanted something different. So, East Java it was! Christmas in Mount Bromo Our Bromo Itinerary: Jeep Tours & Sunrise Views My cousin was the hero of the trip - she arranged our holiday itinerary and booked everything. We stayed in an Airbnb villa in Batu, and around midnight, we were picked up by a pre-arranged transport that was part of the travel package. By around 3am (I think it was), we arrived at the base of Mount Bromo. Since I always sleep on pretty much any moving vehicle somehow, I missed out on experiencing the supposedly nerve-wracking, curvy journey up through the hills. But based on everyone else’s reactions, it sounds like I dodged a pretty intense ride! A gloomy morning on top of Bromo - the hiking crew and the chill crew Midnight Pickup & Scary Jeep Ride From the base, we hopped into our Jeeps. There were 16 of us in total, with four people per Jeep, riding in a convoy to the top. We didn’t hike - not everyone in the group was up for it physically, and honestly, it made more sense to explore the caldera and everything else by Jeep since there’s so much ground to cover. This time, I was wide awake for the drive to the top of the mountain so yes, it was as scary as everyone said. It was pitch black, steep, and freezing cold, but I put all my trust in our super-experienced driver, Pak Gunawan. We got to the top a little early, so we parked and waited for the sunrise in a warung for some coffee and cheeky instant noodles 😉 The picturesque Pasir Berbisik - me and my cousin in our Jeep You may also like this article: Goolali Gelato Bar & Pâtisserie - Semarang’s Sweetest Escape Sunrise at Bromo: Two Viewing Points There are two viewing points: one for beginners (no hiking skills required) - that’s where I was, because I was cold and lazy, and the actual mountaintop (which does require a little hike). My aunt, uncle, and some of my cousins made it to the top, and it turns out, the view up there is absolutely stunning. There was a traffic jam of Jeeps waiting to head back down since it was high season, but we weren’t in any rush. After a bit, we carried on with our journey to the caldera. The drivers took us to a few spots in the caldera, one of which is called Pasir Berbisik (the Whispering Sand). Normally, you can hear the sand go pssshhhh pssshhh, but unfortunately, we didn’t get to experience that because it started raining - making the temperature drop even colder! (I read somewhere that it once snowed in Bromo mid last year!). From there, we were taken to more beautiful spots, but sadly, we couldn’t stop at any of them because of the heavy rain. At the end of the trip, we stopped at a mountain-view restaurant for lunch (which wasn’t included in the tour package, by the way).  Was Bromo Worth It? Overall, our trip to Bromo was super fun. Despite the cold and rain, the sunrise views and the caldera’s beauty made it all worth it. The Jeep tour costs IDR 2 million per Jeep - inclusive of a pick up from our villa. If you’re planning a visit, pack warm layers and enjoy the adventure! Thanks for reading ✨