Amvika M.
Google
⭐⭐☆☆☆ Extremely Disappointing Experience – Not Worth the Price
We stayed at Fivelements Retreat Bali from 27th to 31st with very high expectations, based on the glowing reviews and the premium pricing. Unfortunately, our experience was deeply disappointing and far from what we paid for.
Accommodation:
We paid approximately USD 5,000–5,500 for just 4 nights, expecting luxury, comfort, and safety. The room we were initially given was completely unacceptable for this price point.
The room was located at a corner, felt unsafe and creepy
There were insects and flies inside the room, and one night there was a sudden infestation which was extremely disturbing
Despite repeatedly requesting a room change, no action was taken for several days
The room was changed only on 30th, just one day before our departure on 31st. From 27th to 30th afternoon, we were forced to stay in a room that was absolutely not worth the amount charged.
Food:
Food was average at best. Limited options and nothing exceptional considering this is marketed as a luxury wellness retreat.
Spa & Massage (Most Shocking Part):
We mainly chose Fivelements for its spa and healing therapies, and this turned out to be the worst part of our stay.
I took the Prema Massage
My husband took the Sandy Prana Massage
Our child took a normal massage
The therapists applied extremely rough and unsafe pressure, with no proper assessment or sensitivity.
After my massage, I experienced severe pain in my upper back and front chest area the same day
When I reported this, the spa staff casually said “this is normal in Balinese massage” and that the pain would go away in 2 days
The pain did not subside even after returning home
After medical consultation, I was diagnosed with minor cartilage damage, which the doctor confirmed would take 3–4 weeks to heal, requiring rest and treatment.
My husband also suffered severe neck and shoulder pain due to the extremely rough massage and had to undergo physiotherapy after returning home.
This is not “normal massage pain.” This is careless, unprofessional, and potentially dangerous practice. It seriously raises questions about:
Therapist qualifications
Safety standards
Quality control at the spa
For a retreat that charges such premium prices and promotes healing and wellness, causing physical injury is unacceptable.
Final Thoughts:
I genuinely do not understand how this place has such high ratings. For the price we paid, we expected professionalism, safety, and luxury—not insects, ignored complaints, and physical injury.
This was a stressful, painful, and disappointing experience, and I would strongly advise anyone to think twice before spending their hard-earned money here.