Traditional Indonesian and Balinese Beverages at Intercontinental Bali Resort

June 10, 2015

Traditional Indonesian and Balinese Beverages at Intercontinental Bali Resort

InterContinental Bali Resort now offers visitors and guests the opportunity to taste and benefit from a range of traditional Indonesian and Balinese beverages, served at the resort’s restaurants and bars, including Uluwatu Spa.

Indonesia is famous for the time-honoured medicinal remedies and tonics called jamu, created from fresh, blended herbs, spices and natural ingredients, sold daily on the streets by ladies on bicycles, clad in sarongs and conical hats, with huge baskets strapped to their backs. The ‘secret’ recipes date back to the 9^th century and have been passed down through the generations from mother to daughter. Capturing the life force of indigenous plants, flowers, roots, barks, herbs, fruits and spices, this holistic therapy for inner and outer beauty and health is derived from the science of Asian homeopathy and aromatherapy enhanced by Chinese, Arabic and Ayurvedic influences. Indeed, so accustomed are many Indonesians to drinking their morning jamu that it has become an essential start to their day. The various jamu tonics are known to increase stamina, rejuvenate the skin, purify the blood and aid digestion, including prevent diseases and treat serious health conditions. The main ingredients are turmeric, ginger and tamarind, all considered as potent antioxidants and anticancer herbs. Jamu is traditionally sweetened with honey and drunk hot or cold.

As mentioned earlier, guests can savour jamu herb tea at Uluwatu Spa. This delicious drink is made from fresh ginger, cracked lemongrass, cinnamon sticks, cardamom pods, star anise, cloves, tamarind and honey. Ginger has long been used for relieving digestive problems, cloves used to treat cardiovascular problems, and cinnamon used as a remedy for common cold. The health benefits of lemongrass include relief from stomach disorders, cardamom has diuretic properties, star anise has antifungal and antibacterial properties; while the delicately sweet and sour tamarind is known to strengthen the immune system. Another very popular local beverage is ginger tea, which is also served up at Uluwatu Spa, comprising fragrant pandan leaves, thinly sliced fresh ginger rhizome, cracked lemongrass, black tea, and local palm sugar if required. It can be served hot or cold.

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Visit the Club Pool Bar at InterContinental Bali Resort and relish a refreshing rosella infusion. Made from the ‘rosella sabdariffa’ shrub, which belongs to the hibiscus family, the rosella infusion is rich in vitamins, minerals and fibres; it is known to improve blood circulation, lower cholesterol levels, aid weight loss and strengthen the immune system.

If guests are feeling the heat, try some all-natural coconut water. Completely pure and sterile, this well-balanced fluid composition is an excellent source of hydration. It has a higher concentration of electrolytes than anything else found in nature and is composed of many naturally occurring bioactive enzymes and minerals.

Finally, Bali’s fresh juices and creative combinations of fruit juice will refresh guests easily. All of the drink menus at InterContinental Bali Resort have a section devoted to various non-alcoholic fruit-based beverages. Come now to experience the uplifting beverages being served at this reputable resort.