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BALI
Stepping into The Asa Maia is akin to entering a world that mirrors the soulful essence of its founder, Martha E. Booke.
Rooted in her passion for wellness, sustainability, and cultural authenticity, the sanctuary stands as a testament to her life’s journey and values. From the meticulously sourced antique Indonesian Gladaks to the serene spaces dedicated to breathwork and contrast therapy, every detail tells a story. In this exclusive interview, Martha opens up about the personal connection she shares with The Asa Maia, the inspirations behind its design, and her dreams for the future, including the highly anticipated Asa Maia Sumba.
1) The Asa Maia feels deeply personal and almost like an extension of yourself. When guests visit, what are the emotions or experiences you hope they take away?
The Asa Maia is deeply personal to me — it's as much a sanctuary for myself as it is for my guests. Every aspect reflects practices and principles I genuinely value, from breathwork and contrast therapy to the nourishing food I love and trust, and the products I personally use and believe in. My hope is that guests not only feel the authenticity of this space but also experience a profound sense of renewal. I want them to leave with a deeper understanding of how small, intentional lifestyle changes can create lasting, meaningful shifts in their lives.
2) Why were antique Indonesian Gladaks so important to your vision for The Asa Maia?
I personally sourced the Gladaks and reclaimed materials used to build The Asa Maia, ensuring every piece carries a sense of purpose and history and its integrity is maintained. Incorporating antique Indonesian Gladaks was not only a commitment to sustainability but also a way to honour and showcase Indonesia's rich culture and heritage. I wanted our guests to feel deeply connected to the spirit of this place, experiencing not just the beauty of their surroundings but also the stories and traditions that make it so unique.
3) How have your experiences in Brazil and Bali influenced the design and feel of the hotel?
The design and atmosphere of The Asa Maia are deeply rooted in my experiences in Indonesia rather than Brazil. Bali, Java and Sulawesi in particular, have had a profound influence on the hotel's aesthetic and philosophy. The architecture, materials, and cultural elements reflect the connection, history and traditions, creating a space that feels authentic to its surroundings.
4) Which wellness practices have been most impactful in your life, and how do you bring these to guests?
Breathwork and contrast therapy have been the most transformative wellness practices in my life and are central to what we offer at The Asa Maia. We provide both group and private sessions, inviting guests to join a complimentary guided contrast therapy session each day. It’s inspiring to see how many guests return regularly and even start practicing independently. These experiences help them push their limits, discover inner resilience, and achieve a deep sense of personal accomplishment. Many go from a self-declared three-second cold plunge limit to lasting three minutes or more, embracing the challenge with excitement and fulfillment.
5) Is there a specific design element at The Asa Maia that's especially meaningful to you?
I have a deep appreciation for the restored Gladaks and the beautifully reclaimed wood throughout Asa Maia, especially the hand-planked details that seem alive with stories of the past. However, I’m particularly drawn to the Belgian Blue Stone. Its texture, history, and understated elegance resonate with me on a profound level.
6) What have been the biggest rewards and challenges in your transition from fashion to hospitality?
Transitioning from fashion to hospitality has been an incredibly rewarding journey, and I feel deeply grateful to have discovered a new calling that brings such meaning to my life. Embracing hospitality has felt natural and fulfilling. Leaving the fashion industry has been a relief in many ways, though I still cherish the opportunity to express my creativity through our boutique gift shop.
7) What do you love about Uluwatu?
Honestly, what I love most about Uluwatu is the surf — it's unmatched. But beyond that, I'm deeply drawn to the warmth of the people and the timeless beauty of the Uluwatu Temple. Having spent 22 years in this area, I've witnessed its development and changes, yet it has never lost its magic or mysticism. There's an energy here that continues to captivate and inspire me.
8) What's your favourite spot at The Asa Maia for relaxing or unwinding?
You’ll often find me practicing Tummo breathwork in the sauna or moving between the hot and cold pools — my go-to spots for relaxation and recharging. I also have a soft spot for the treatment room, especially for a soothing mani or pedi. But my favorite place to unwind is in the ikat chairs I designed outside the library, overlooking the pool. It’s the perfect spot for quiet reflection and mindful observation.
9) lf you could invite anyone, living or not, for a stay at The Asa Maia, who would it be and why?
I would invite my father and mother. Although they're both living, it's too far for them to travel now. It would mean so much to share this part of my life with them, to show them not only the beauty of The Asa Maia but also the culmination of my vision and efforts. It's a space that reflects so much of who I am, and having them here to experience it would be incredibly meaningful.
10) What's one wellness trend you think we'll see more of in the future, and would you try it at The Asa Maia?
I believe we'll see an increasing focus on advanced therapies like hyperbaric chambers in the wellness space. While we don't have the space for one at The Asa Maia in Bali, I'm genuinely excited about incorporating one in our next venture in Sumba. It's a fascinating tool for enhancing recovery and overall well-being, and I look forward to offering that experience in the future.
11) What can you share about your upcoming The Asa Maia SUMBA and how it builds on Asa Maia's concept?
The Asa Maia SUMBA project is an incredibly exciting next chapter for us, building on the core principles of The Asa Maia while embracing the unique elements of this stunning island. We're thrilled to work with such extraordinary natural features — 420 meters of pristine beachfront, a lush jungle, and even a turquoise blue waterfall. These elements provide endless inspiration and allow us to create a sanctuary deeply connected to the beauty and spirit of the land. This project will reflect our commitment to sustainability, cultural authenticity, and holistic wellness, offering guests an unforgettable experience immersed in Sumba's natural and raw beauty.
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Location: Banjar Dinas Suluban, Jl. Pantai Padang-Padang, Pecatu, Kec. Kuta Sel., Bali, 80361, Indonesia | Phone: +62 811-3811-885 | Instagram: @theasamaia | Facebook: The Asa Maia | Website: theasamaia.com
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