Balinese Spa Popular In Rusia

Moscow (Antara Bali) - Balinese traditional spa and massage has become extremely popular in Russia, and the people there are paying about US$100 to US$400 to enjoy the treatment, said Djauhari Oratmangun, the Indonesian Ambassador to Russia, here on Thursday.

"Balinese spa has become a trend in Russia and is currently more popular than any other traditional massage from other countries," Djauhari told an Indonesian delegation to the World Media Summit.

He said some Russians had even visited Bali and Raja Ampat, Papua, to learn about Indonesian tradition, cuisine, art and culture, including the traditional Balinese massage.

More than 400 Balinese spa therapists were working in many big cities in Russia, such as Moscow, St. Petersburg and Vladivostok, Djauhari added.

"Balinese spa treatment started gaining popularity in Russia five years ago. Since then, many Indonesian professionals, mainly women, have been brought to the country. However, it's truly and exclusively a health massage," he said.

The therapists were taken to Russia by labour distribution company Sim Krasok, under the supervision of Indonesia's Labour Ministry and the Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy. Balinese spa treatment was promoted in the mass media, such as in magazines, newspapers and on the television.

Advertisements on Balinese spa, featuring beautiful Balinese women and promising a rejuvenating massage, were also seen at Demodevodo International Airport.

A few weeks ago, Indonesian State Minister for Women's Empowerment Linda Amalia Gumelar visited Russia and met many spa therapists at the Indonesian Embassy.

"She strongly supports the development of Balinese spa in Russia and has urged the therapists to save Indonesia's face overseas," Djauhari said.(*/M038/T007)