Through interactive displays, workshops, and retail, the unique initiative merges ancient Indonesian wellness traditions with contemporary lifestyles.
A groundbreaking partnership between the award-winning AYANA Resort Bali, revered natural skincare company, Utama Spice, and a leading producer of innovative health tonics, the jamu BAR, has led to the creation of Jamu & Spice, opening at AYANA Resort Bali’s shopping arcade on October 10, 2023. A dynamic platform and space to explore jamu, Indonesia’s 1,200-year-old system of traditional remedies and tonics that harness the health-giving properties of native medicinal plants, alongside natural skincare products used by people across the archipelago for centuries, Jamu & Spice is the first of its kind in the country and is set to become a destination for both wellness and Indonesian cultural appreciation.
The vision for Jamu & Spice was sparked by AYANA’s desire to offer guests an authentic Indonesian wellness experience within the lush surrounds of AYANA Farm, the resort’s two-hectare edible organic garden. This resonated with Utama Spice, which is renowned for its dedication to traditional Indonesian beauty practices and natural products. Meanwhile, the founders of the jamu BAR, which is rooted in generations of jamu heritage, had a wealth of expertise and ideas to contribute to the landmark endeavor. Together, the partners envisioned a synergy that would preserve cultural heritage while embracing modernity.
At the dedicated space, visitors can join short and insightful 15-minute workshops to create traditional jamu blends and herbal teas, along with natural skin care products such as botanical perfume oil, body oil, and bath salts. Meanwhile, culturally curious guests can learn to concoct traditional Javanese lulur to cleanse and soften the skin, and Balinese boreh to detoxify and brighten the skin.
For those seeking an in-depth understanding of the cornerstones of Indonesia’s traditional health practices, Jamu & Spice also conduct immersive Traditional Herbal Remedies Workshops at AYANA Farm. These two-hour sessions are offered by reservation only from Wednesday to Sunday, with bookings requiring at least 24 hours’ notice. Guests can also opt for tailored packages that enable them to craft their own skin care products to be used during treatments at AYANA Spa under the expert care of skilled therapists.
To elevate the in-room experience, Jamu & Spice also invites guests who book their stay in any of AYANA’s four hotels directly via ayana.com to join a complementary bath bomb making workshop, with the offer comprising up to two bath bombs per room.
"With Jamu & Spice, we aim to bridge heritage and contemporary living, ensuring that the treasures of traditional jamu and holistic skin care continue to thrive,” says Vanessa Ong, co-founder of the jamu Bar and great granddaughter of Nyonya Meneer, the first person to distribute jamu nationwide. “Our vision is to empower individuals to embrace the wisdom of the past while flourishing in the present, harmonizing ancient practices with modern wellbeing."
The new venture also demonstrates Utama Spice’s commitment to honoring and promoting the healing power of Indonesia’s botanicals. “At Jamu & Spice, we are revitalizing Indonesia's healing plants with a modern twist,” says Ria Templer, Co-founder of Utama Spice. “Our mission is to preserve this ancient wisdom for future generations as these plants hold tremendous healing potential, which has been passed down through the ages.”
Jamu & Spice stands as a testament to AYANA’s commitment to honoring Indonesian culture and innovation. “This initiative promises to be more than just a concept store; it's a gateway to the past that shapes the present and future,” says Giordano Faggioli, General Manager of AYANA Resort.
Jamu & Spice is located in the shopping arcade of AYANA Resort Bali and opens daily from 9am to 7pm.