How it all started
In 2012, I landed in Bali with nothing but a dream, a surfboard, and an open heart.
No plan. No strategy. Just a feeling I couldn’t ignore. I thought I was building a retreat — but I ended up building a life.
With Putu. With our blended family. With countless guests who became friends.
There were doubts.There were hard days. But there was always love, trust, and the ocean.
This is a letter to the girl I was back then. And maybe… a little reminder for you too:
Follow what feels real. Always. 💛
Emma
Moving to Bali
Emma moved to Bali on her own, following a feeling she couldn’t ignore. What started as a short adventure slowly turned into something much bigger.
Meeting Putu
Through surfing, Emma met Putu. What began with a shared love for the ocean grew into a shared life and a shared vision.
Creating Pelan Pelan
Together, they created Pelan Pelan. A place inspired by the calm rhythm of Bali, where guests can slow down, connect, and feel at home.
Moments along the way
What makes Pelan Pelan different isn’t just the surf or the yoga. It’s the feeling.
Guests arrive as strangers, and often leave as friends. With a different rhythm, more calm, and a deeper connection to themselves.
Many stay longer than planned.
Many come back.
And for us, that means everything.
Ready to experience Pelan Pelan for yourself?
Happy to Answer all Your Questions
How did Pelan Pelan start?
Pelan Pelan started from a feeling – that life could be slower, more connected, and closer to nature. After moving to Bali, Emma wanted to create a place where others could experience that same feeling. What began small, slowly grew into the retreat it is today.
How did you meet?
We met in Bali through surfing. What started with a shared love for the ocean slowly grew into something more – a shared life, and eventually Pelan Pelan.
What does “Pelan Pelan” mean?
“Pelan Pelan” means slowly, slowly. It reflects the Balinese way of life – taking things easy, being present, and not rushing. That idea is at the heart of everything we do.
Did you start Pelan Pelan together?
Emma moved to Bali to start Pelan Pelan. From the beginning, Putu built it together with her.
How has Pelan Pelan grown?
We started small, doing everything ourselves with two team members. Over the years, Pelan Pelan has grown into a close-knit team of around 20 people – while keeping the same personal feeling.
Are you still involved today?
Yes, very much. We are closely involved and regularly present, working together with our team and continuing to shape the experience for our guests.
What do you want guests to feel here?
The same feeling that brought us here in the first place. A slower rhythm, connection to the ocean and nature, and a sense of calm that stays with you even after you leave.
Is Pelan Pelan a hotel or something different?
It’s not a hotel. Pelan Pelan is a place built from our own journey – combining surf, yoga, and a more personal way of experiencing Bali.
