Review Author: Airz10, Australia

Review Date: 03 Nov 2014

Review Body: Thank you so much to the team at MBS Surf Bali for making the week better than I could have imagined. Sarah and Deduk ensured that each of us felt at home and nothing (truly nothing) was too much trouble for them. If you are thinking of doing a retreat in Bali, want to learn to surf, or simply want to have an amazing week...stop looking and please book with MBS Surf Bali. You won't regret it! :) Villa - The villa was gorgeous and each of the rooms amazing. My sister and I shared a king-size room with a beautiful outdoor shower (I especially loved all the little treats and positive words we received when our rooms were made up each day). The villa itself had a pool, deck area with a large relaxing day bed and reclining deck chairs, a grassed area perfect for our yoga sessions and a large kitchen, dining and relaxing area. It was also in an excellent location, simply a short walk to the main area of Seminyak. Surfing - The surfing was my favourite part. The boys at Double D surf school were the best. I've done a few surf lessons before (I teach PE so have taken kids out many times), but none have compared to these guys. I went from barely catching waves in the white wash to actually being able to catch a wave in the green water on my own. The boys were so supportive and knowledgeable, and also took us to different beaches depending on our ability levels and the conditions on the day. Food - Possibly equally my favourite part. The food provided at the villa was breathtaking (and every meal was a great photo opportunity). We had three course, healthy, delicious meals to look forward to each day. A large coconut to come back to straight after a morning surf was brilliant. Sarah was also so helpful in booking us into a amazing restaurants so that we could go out together and enjoy some of the best food Bali has to offer. Yoga & Spa Treatments - The yoga was fun, challenging and a great way to stretch out after all the surfing. It was catered to our ability levels, but also to how we were feeling on the day. The spa treatments were also excellent. We were able to pick anything we liked on the day. I had three varieties of massages which were terrific, but I know the other girls had facials, hair treatments and pedicures too. Other - There were also some extra things that were a really beautiful touch: - Chocolate Cooking Class (healthy chocolate of course) - Learning about the Balinese culture and their offerings - Balinese coffee....hmm, so good - Transport to and from the villa - Photos of our surfing experience - Box of goodies including extra sunscreen, bug spray, lip balm (and anything else you needed) - Love my rash vest, sarong, water bottle and bag - Booking in Reiki sessions for us - Making friends with fantastic people from all over the world - Helping my sister find accommodation for the following week that she was staying Thanks again guys!! I can't wait to come back to Bali to catch up with you all! Airlie xxx

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Jill G, Canada

Review Date: 03 Nov 2014

Review Body: This was the most incredible vacation I've ever had which is truly saying alot because it's one of only a handful that I've been on as a solo traveler. I have never tried surfing before and I was able to stand up on day 1! Such an incredible sense of accomplishment thanks to Deduk and the Double D surf instructors. I was pretty apprehensive about the surfing part but it's been on my bucket list for years and I couldn't be more happy that I shared the experience with MBS Surf Bali and Double D. The guys at Double D were super helpful and attentive and most of all they made it incredibly fun! I can't praise them enough for making my 5 day surfing experience more enjoyable. As for the rest of the trip - I don't think I could ever do the week justice in a write-up. It was nothing short of amazing, incredible and lovely. Sarah is the best - so helpful and eager to make your experience the best it can possibly be. Nothing is too difficult of a request including reikki session bookings, tattoo artist recommendations and wine delivery :) Also, Sarah and Deduk are so candid and warm, incredibly easy to talk to and share experiences with. I truly felt at home in the villa. The villa staff were equally as accomodating, ready to make you coffee and always serving us incredible meals. It was such a nice change from Hong Kong food to eat healthy yet delicious meals! I am now missing the meals just thinking about it! Another aspect of the retreat that I absolutely loved was a sense of really feeling like you're embracing the culture. You would never get this experience staying at a resort. You really get to know people who live in Bali and to me that was a real treat. As for the other ladies on the trip - I feel so lucky to have met such amazing people. Everyone got along so well. I think it helps that the ladies that attend this trip all share similar specific interests - adventurous, outdoorsy and fun to name a few.....Sarah was happy to make reservations for a few nights out for us and we all went out together and had a fantastic time! Anyways, I could go on and on but don't want to ruin all the surprises for the ladies that have yet to go. If you're looking for the best girls vacation of your life then you cannot miss out on MBS Surf Bali. Thank you Sarah, Deduk and my fellow villa-mates for an incredible week...xoxo

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Erin H

Review Date: 24 Apr 2016

Review Body: I had an absolutely fantastic week with MBS in Bali. Myself and a friend opted for the Soul Surf Basic and even though it was the 'budget' option, at no point did Sarah or the rest of the team make us feel like anything less than VIP. We stayed at a beautiful, super clean, private villa in Seminyak that felt like an oasis. Our breakfasts, as well as our two included dinners, were delicious. They arranged a relaxing and engaging tour for us on our day off. The surfing was so much fun. We were both beginners, but were both able to stand up on the board by the end of the first lesson and I was able to catch a green wave on my own by the end of the week. We got to try surfing at a variety of beaches, with different conditions. Surfing was a new challenge for me, but with Deduk's help it was such a wonderful, positive experience. He's patient, gentle and has a great sense of humour. After the week I felt so much more confident and comfortable in the water and on the board. Maud was such a delight to have, as our photographer and to help us feel comfortable both in and out of the water. Our yoga was such a great complement to surf and the instructor (I don't want to spell her name incorrectly so I won't even try) was also a surfer so she was able to commiserate with our sore muscles and she geared the classes to help with our surfing. She was so friendly and funny and as someone who practices yoga regularly, she was a great knowledgeable instructor. Everyone took such good care of us, I have never stayed anywhere with such attention to detail and amazing customer service. Sarah even helped us plan our itinerary for when we left MBS, with great suggestions for day trips, restaurants and activities - she even booked an activity for us the day before to save us the effort. The entire week was such a great experience, with genuinely passionate and caring people who do an amazing job. I absolutely recommend MBS and am already scheming of ways to come back for another week of surf, yoga and fun

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Explorer55730954869, Dubai

Review Date: 06 May 19

Review Body: Hello! My name is Nicole. This month of March I had 10 days of holidays and barely time to organize myself. I found the MBS retreat and Sarah organized everything for me while I was super busy at work. I arrived to Bali and her driver Dedix, a very nice young Balinese was waiting for me! I got to know him very well as we did other trips together. He was always there for any trip I needed to do and at a very good price. The Villa it’s beautiful, the rooms are like hotel rooms, a lot of space, big wardrobe and an amazing comfortable bed. Every morning the cutest Balinese lady Made, prepared a delicious breakfast before I went surfing. And received me back with a coconut after! She is amazing and explained me lots of things about Balinese. Also rented a bicycle for me to cicle around as I didn’t want a bike. I took five classes of surf, wasn’t sure if I would finish them as it was my first time trying. But Dedix made me enjoy it so much that I didn’t want to miss a day and even a friend came along one day! He is really good and give such a nice vibes! I managed to stand up on the board from the first day! I also took three clases of yoga, that were the cherry on top! As I love yoga, and meeting Nairah was very inspiring. She mixes yoga with healing and it’s beautiful! The other days I did a day tour to Ubud,That Sarah organized for me to not miss a spot! Another visited a temple nearby Tanah lot. and also took a day tour to Ayung river where I did rafting and a quads bikes tour around the villages and countryside of Ubud! Found this tour in Airbnb app is anyone is interested. Overall the 10 days were unforgettable, I did so many sports and fell in love with Canggu and Batu Balong beach, so many nice spots for shopping or food and nice beach bars to spend the sunset!!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Adriana D, Australia

Review Date: 29 Oct 2014

Review Body: My week with MBS Surf Bali was more than I could have imagined. Sarah and Deduk are very warm, kind and generous. Sarah is the perfect host, and nothing is too much trouble, so you are left to simply enjoy your time. Deduk and the surfing instructors at Double D are great. They make learning to surf such a fun experience. They are very encouraging and without it being stressful or worrying you are soon out there in the green water feeling great and having fun. The villa staff are wonderful, cooking us beautiful, delicious and healthy meals and catering to our needs. The yoga sessions are tailored to help you prepare for surfing and the instructor works with how you are feeling. There are so many little thoughtful touches and gestures included in the week that make you feel special. It's a full week - yoga, surfing, eating, relaxing by the pool, shopping, pampering - but nothing feels rushed. The villa is beautiful and you instantly feel at home. It's nice to have two nights to eat out at fabulous restaurants that Sarah can recommend. I took the deluxe package and the spa I visited was amazing, and the treatment so pampering. I came back floating. This trip was a real treat for me and the whole experience was a very special one that will stay with me. Sarah and Deduk are happy to share as much about their lives and Bali as you're interested to learn about. I really felt I experienced Balinese culture and gained an appreciation of how special this place is. I can't end without mentioning the lovely company of the other five women on the retreat. If you are thinking about a surfing, yoga retreat I would say do this one with MBS Surf Bali. I loved it and my friends tell me I returned 'glowing'. Thank you so much Sarah and Deduk.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: kristikowalski, Canada

Review Date: 08 Oct 2017

Review Body: Nothing but great things to say about my time in Bali with MBS Surf Bali - it will be a memorable trip! This started out as a solo trip, with my sister later on deciding to join as well. We had so much fun! The location of the villa was great - close to the beach, many shops, restaurants, cafes and lounges. Everything was spotlessly clean and comfortable, including the outside facilities such as the pool and dining area. So peacefully relaxing after a day of surfing! I thoroughly enjoyed the breakfasts prepared each morning for us, they were filling and delicious. We also enjoyed two Balinese-inspired dinners on two evenings in the villa with Sarah and Jana, they were also delicious! Basically all the food in Bali is amazing. I was very happy to see that the schedule included surfing each day, perfectly spaced by yoga classes with Kirsten to attend to sore spots and free afternoons everyday. Deduck was awesome as a coach, so much so that I set up another two lessons in my travels after the retreat :) I loved that Jana came with us each day to capture our surfing on camera and then reviewed all the pictures the following morning at breakfast. Such a great idea. Sarah would kindly help us figure out where to visit and sightsee in our free time, also arranging our drivers. Overall this was an amazing adventure in Bali and so happy I found MBS for this experience. The whole team was amazing and kind and left such a great impression on everything Bali-related! I will hopefully be back in the near future and would highly recommend a retreat with MBS any day!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: ashleyswallow, Unitd Kingdom

Review Date: 29 Oct 2014

Review Body: What better way to spend a week in a beautiful place like Seminyak than with a small group of lovely ladies in an amazing villa. The week was so cleverly and brilliantly organised! I'm one who loves structure and organisation and Sarah managed to pull this off brilliantly without it being "too structured" at the same time. We all felt so at home and comfortable in this lovely villa. I've never been lucky enough to stay anywhere that has such beautiful bedrooms, bathrooms, an outdoor kitchen and eating area, outdoor lounge and the pool. The FOOD that was provided for us was out of this world. Every meal was amazing and always ready on time (sometimes we were late, oopsie). I'm a big foodie and I found everything everyday to be amazingly presented and very tasteful. Everyone involved at the villa takes a real care for you and really does everything they can to accommodate your needs. Now for the SURFING, which would have to be one of the best experiences I've ever had. Deduk and the other boys taught me how to surf!! Ive had a few surfing lessons before but nothing like these ones, the boys really care for you and because you are in such a small group its a lot more focused on actually making sure you get up on that board. They also make you feel super comfortable out there which I think is the most important part. I can now surf by myself which was the aim of the week!! I just want to say a massive thank you to the MBS team for the amazing week I got to have with my sister! It's one we will never forget! Thank you :)

Review rating: 5

Review Author: jd2257, California

Review Date: 01 Jul 2015

Review Body: I wholeheartedly agree with all of the excellent reviews given previously. My week with MBS was magical and truly memorable. I went with my daughter who is an experienced surfer; I am pretty much a novice although I have surfed in the past. The instructors were absolutely fantastic and so much fun to hang with before and after surfing. I am amazed at how well I did, all due to the patience and skill of the instructors. The yoga sessions were in the evening and thus were relaxing and restorative. We surfed at a beautiful Canggu surf spot; even the drive there was through breathtaking rice paddies. The food was delicious- our chef, Wayan, cooked amazing breakfasts, lunches, and dinners daily, adjusting the meals to our individual preferences. The table setting gorgeous every night. The villa was spacious, bright, and clean. Sarah and Deduk, the hosts, took care of every detail. Sarah shared her wealth of knowledge of Balinese culture and life, something I could not have learned if we had stayed in a hotel. Deduk took incredible surf photos of us every morning, and even carefully packed up a large fragile item my daughter had purchased so we could check it at the airport. For our free day, Sarah arranged a snorkeling trip where we swam with Manta Rays, and drift snorkeled through the most beautiful coral reef teeming with life- I can't even begin to describe how magical it was. I highly recommend you book an MBS retreat as soon as you can.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: carly k

Review Date: 07 Oct 2017

Review Body: I decided to join my sister on an unforgettable surf adventure in Bali and because of MBS I am so glad I did! Sarah, Dudek, Jana and the whole team were amazing from the time we arrived until we left. The villa was a beautiful, spotlessly clean little escape which made it easy to unwind and relax after a day in the sun and waves.The surf instruction was the best I've received as Dudek was encouraging, positive and a blast in the water. Sarah was kind enough to arrange drivers for our day trips, transfers from hotels and airport as well as helping us plan our week. Jana accompanied us for breakfast each morning and on all of our surfing adventures and was kind enough to capture our surfing adventures on camera each day. The villa is located in a great location with many lounges, restaurants, shops, the beach, and entertainment right at our doorstep. I also loved that MBS is run by locals and you will not only learn how to surf, but with MBS you also get the opportunity to experience true Balinese cuisine as well as have the opportunity to learn about the culture.I can't forget to mention that the yoga was great, straightforward and I loved the scientific twist rather than spiritual that our instructor offered.I wish I could remember her name as she was such a lovely and informative lady! We had such a great time that we are already planning on returning next year. Thanks to the whole team for an unbelievable week in paradise :)

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Cynthia K

Review Date: 25 May 2015

Review Body: Wow! Wow! Wow! I'm in a state of Ultimate Bliss after my retreat with MBS Surf Bali. This retreat is amazing, my experience transforming. A truly magical time. I chose MBS because of the holistic offering of yoga, surfing and spa treatments. I needed to let go of the past and revive myself for the next chapter of my life. MBS was the perfect retreat to meet my needs and achieve my goals. The host went above and beyond to make us comfortable and to ensure we were each experiencing all we had hoped for. The surfing locations were beautiful and the surf instructors tailored our sessions to our individual skill and comfort levels. So kind and patient. We had a variety of boards to choose from each day to match with the swell conditions and our physical condition of the day. I loved the heart-opening yoga practice - it was as if the yoga instructor could read my mind and knew exactly what my body and soul needed. I have never felt so pampered as I did with the spa treatments…The Ultimate Bliss package was incredible and I highly recommend it. To top it off the food was decadently delicious…so colorful and flavorful. The villa was very comfortable, tranquil and sparkling clean. Our group went on the cultural day and loved the guided bike ride through the villages and shopping in Ubud. I always felt safe and well taken care of. I can't express enough how magical my experience was.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: lizzyp44, United Kingdom

Review Date: 10 Dec 2014

Review Body: A magical week spent with MBS Surf Bali. From the warmest welcome by Sarah at the start I knew this was going to be a life changing retreat. Very high quality accommodation, such a beautiful villa - and Sarah really has thought of everything you may need. It's all about the little touches, from the complimentary surf lycra and customised water canister to the box of 'everything you may need' including insect repellent, sun screen and surf board wax..! Each day we were treated to world class food in a multitude of styles, and were given beautiful little gifts and cards with inspirational quotes - these mostly made me cry as they always seemed to be what I needed to hear! Even if you are nervous about surfing it's absolutely fine, the team are more than used to helping people who are complete beginners and are very sensitive to everyone's needs. I felt like we were taken care of in a truly fantastic way, and much more than I was expecting. Sarah and the team are so open, friendly and are genuinely there to help with any questions or issues you may have. Like a home from home - HIGHLY recommended!!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Nikki_Cronulla, Australia

Review Date: 06 May 2014

Review Body: I stayed with Mind Body Soul - Surf Bali and had the most amazing holiday. I've been to Bali 5 times over 22 years and hadn't experienced the real Bali until now. MBS is Balinese owned (the only one of this type) and Balinese and Internationally operated. Sarah and Deduk were fantastic! Everything I could need or want was catered to. Travelling alone, they made sure I never felt alone, in fact every day was jam packed with things to do. The villa I stayed in was beautiful, the food to die for, the in villa staff were wonderful, learning to surf at different beach breaks, yoga in the garden and at Desa Seni, organic meals in villa, a swim at Padang Padang, sunset drinks at Uluwatu, bike rides through villages in Ubud and I was lucky enough to experience a full moon cleansing. I have come back refreshed and planning my next holiday to Bali. With new friends also, I really can't recommend these guys enough. If you need a break and want to experience the real Bali with a holistic approach to really winding down while enjoying the joys of the day, contact Mind Body Soul - Surf Bali.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Saster J, New Zealand

Review Date: 16 Aug 2019

Review Body: It was an absolute pleasure to spend a week with the team at MBS Bali. If you’re thinking about doing a retreat in Bali and researching MBS Bali - Do it! It was an incredibly relaxing and memorable holiday. It totally exceeded my expectations and I felt incredibly cared for and well looked after. Sarah and Deduk are lovely genuine people who really enjoy what they do and sharing beautiful Bali with visitors. As such, they make wonderful hosts. As a solo traveller I felt very safe and welcomed. At the retreat I met some fantastic like-minded woman who I really enjoyed surfing with. Unlike my fellow surf-sisters at the retreat; I wasn't up on the board on day 1, but I did get up (in my own time) and felt that amazing buzz of surfing a wave. Im now hankering for the NZ summer to arrive to get back out in the water and practice my ‘pop up’. The accommodation was really comfortable and I’ve never eaten so well! Every meal was tasty and nourishing. I returned from my holiday in Bali feeling relaxed and buzzing from my amazing experience with Mind Body Soul Bali.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: omm123, Germany

Review Date: 04 Jul 2018

Review Body: Absolutely loved my stay here. This is a gorgeous family run retreat in Canggu; beautiful people, delicious fresh food, clean rooms, nice pool. Wonderful Sarah and Made are amazing hosts. I was really well looked after throughout my stay, getting everything organised and changes in my plans managed seamlessly. A perfect balanced combination of surfing, yoga, messages, Bali exploration and chillaxing. The surf areas were away from the big crowds and the instructors are very motivated to get you the best possible surf experience according to your skills and to help you progress and develop further. The patient instructors constantly keep a safe eye on you, help you in the line up and give valuable feedback. A special thanks to Deduk for the amazing experience at Kuta Reef - will never forget! Yoga in beautiful salas and massages in the room were amazing. I also had great opportunities to experience and learn about the authentic local culture. Absolutely best place to take a step back and rejuvenate yourself. Matur suksma! <3

Review rating: 5

Review Author: c k, California

Review Date: 24 May 2015

Review Body: Do not think twice about booking this retreat. I have been to others in other countries but this experience was magical, life changing and exceeded all expectations. The host was warm and welcoming from the start and truly cares about each individual and their experience. The surf instruction and equipment was spectacular. I came home a better and more experienced surfer. The yoga was an amazing complement to the surfing. A great way to begin or end your day. The spa treatments, divine and plentiful. The food, delicious. Each meal was a culinary treat. The villa, beautiful, comfortable and sparkling clean. And finally, the culture day made the whole experience complete. To see the countryside and how the Balinese live outside of the city was inspiring. I will dream of this adventure for years to come and cannot wait to return to MBS Surf Bali.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: sroh, Arizona

Review Date: 25 Nov 2016

Review Body: I'm so grateful to have experienced another impressive retreat with MBS. I booked the basics package and had exciting surf lessons with Deduk and found renewal through my yoga practice. The villa was gorgeous with beautifully appointed details and the meals were healthy and delicious. There was a nice flow to the week's itinerary leaving enough time to relax, discover the surroundings and indulge in amazing spa treatments. We had one day off and enjoyed an incredible trip to a few beaches in southern Bali. The whole team at MBS make you feel comfortable and are very supportive. Nothing is too much trouble. They proved again that their genuine caring nature and love for what they do keeps this retreat experience magical. Go and have an amazing time! You will come back with a new found confidence and feel more balanced and inspired!

Review rating: 5

Review Author: MIA002, The Netherlands

Review Date: 02 Dec 16

Review Body: This is the first retreat that I tried and it will be hard to top it up :) I went with my sister and we were both in need of a relaxing time and this what we had. We are both beginners for surfing and yoga and we had a fantastic time at both. Elie (the yoga instructor) was amazing and always tailored the class to our needs and Deduk (the surf instructor) managed to get us standing up on the board by the first day (no small feat). We stayed in a beautiful villa with our own swimming pool and were so well taken care of by the staff. Sarah made sure that we had a perfect week :) And I should not forget Maud, who not also took great pictures of our surfing but also was so incredibly knowledgeable of the Bali culture. It was an amazing week and a huge thank you to all the MBS Surf Bali team, we will be back and very soon! :)

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Fiona L, Australia

Review Date: 02 Aug 2014

Review Body: My time at mbss was incredible. I didn't really know what to expect as I've never been to a surf camp. I've surfed for most of my life but was in bali on my own so thought it would be a good way to get to know the island and the surf sport. Sarah and Deduk were awesome. They welcomed us into their lives and made us part of it. From going out for dinner SMS drinks to showing us secret surf spots around the island and just being there to help us with anything at all. The villa accommodation and staff were second to none. They were so beautiful not to mention the incredible food they prepared for us each day with so much love. Would definitely recommend mbss to anyone wanting to experience bali, learn to surf, improve their surfing and meet some beautiful people. Thanks you mbss for the most beautiful week of my life ;)

Review rating: 5

Review Author: valewipf, Austria

Review Date: 14 Oct 19

Review Body: I was staying here for one week as a solo traveller and I liked it very much. The whole villa is very clean and nice and the maid cooked the best healthy breakfast for me every morning. The villa is located just 5 minutes from lots of fancy restaurants and cafes. The surfing with my instructor was always so much fun and I could really improve because I almost always had a private lesson with him. My yoga-sessions, massages and trips that I did were always on time and well-organized. The owner Sarah could give me some really nice tips as it was my first stay in Bali. If you wanna have a high-standard accommodation in Canggu with some fun activities I would definitely recommend Mind Body Soul Retreat.

Review rating: 5

Review Author: Maryann W, New Zealand

Review Date: 20 Jul 2014

Review Body: Sarah, Deduk and staff make a wonderful team, so friendly, charming and helpful (with lots of encouragement in the surf!). Villa Suku is a delightful, elegant, yet homely setting, tucked away from busy Seminyak – a peaceful space after surf lessons and interesting outings. We always looked forward to the delicious, healthy, colourful and beautifully presented meals, and appreciated the care taken to cater for food intolerances, and care of our room. Thanks also for the surprise gifts, thought for today cards, woven foliage creations, massages and demonstrations for making offering baskets and raw chocolate. A busy week of happy memories.

Review rating: 5

Itinerary Day 1

Itinerary Summary: Yoga, massage & biking

Itinerary Description: Throughout this trip you will be enjoying 5 yoga sessions and an in-house massage. You can also explore the place with the free use of bicycles available around the resort!