The Balinese are famous for their signature massage techniques - long, flowing strokes leading to a state of utmost relaxation.

We were still feeling a bit stiff from the flight over, so we were only too pleased to take up the offer of a 50-minute Balinese massage therapy treatment at Club Med's Mandara Spa.

The sun was shining and the heat was a tad oppressive, so I opted for the plain massage rather than the hot stone option, not wanting to get any warmer than I already was.

The spa is one of the newly refurbished parts of Club Med. It's a beautiful and stylish haven, from the moment you step into the reception area and sink down onto a stone-shaped couch.

While we sipped sweet iced tea, we sampled the various aromatherapy oils on offer, then we were whisked off by a bevy of therapists to our individual treatment rooms.

As I lay on the table Ambar, my masseuse began the treatment: kneading and rolling my feet and legs with just the right amount of pressure. She moved on to my back, even climbing onto the table to apply her whole weight to her hands. The air was squashed out of my lungs and I lay powerless, listening to the appalling cracks and crunches going on in my shoulders and upper back.

After rolling over and working on my legs and arms, my head, neck and scalp were also massaged carefully with rhythmic strokes.

Sadly, it was over all too soon (when is a massage ever long enough?), and I was led back to reception to sip a cool glass of water and compare treatments with the rest of the group.

On our way out we checked out the brand new huts at the back of the spa complex - these are for couples treatments and look absolutely idyllic, with their sun loungers out the back for post-treatment luxuriation.

To continue the theme of Balinese culture, I'm about to head off to a Balinese dance lesson. But any dreams I have of becoming a graceful expert will surely be dashed after tonight's evening show - that's when the professionals will be busting out the moves for real...

Amy Williams travelled to Bali courtesy of Club Med and Pacific Blue.

Check out the pictures from my trip to Bali on Flickr or find out more about Bali.

Read more Yahoo!Xtra Adventures.