Ubud. Everything you should know...

Ok, so I’d for sure call this the hub of the Bali island! If it’s your first visit, I think this needs to be your first stop for several reasons. Firstly, the tranquility of the area is just so welcoming after a long journey. Secondly, it’s bursting with culture, food, and excitement and will really wet your apatite for your extended stay in Bali.

We stayed in a boutique resort that was just beyond the main drag of Ubud City Center. @theudaya. While stating right in the heart would’ve been more convenient, I greatly enjoyed the privacy and tranquility of this little resort. Plus, they offered a convenient shuttle service into town, which made quick visits super easy. And off hour taxis were extremely affordable. This resort also emphasize its amazing spa-like atmosphere, making it the perfect resting place after busy days of touring.

Ubud is lively, touristy, and oozing with culture, cuisine, nightlife (oh, and wildlife). Now, there are several known tourist destinations right in town, but my advice would be to take them with a grain of salt. For instance, the main attraction, the Monkey Forest…. We decided to skip this one simply from the overcrowded entranceway (and a slight fear of disgruntled monkeys). There are plenty of free-roaming monkeys that you can see from a safe distance if you so choose. It seemed unnecessary and a bit too touristy. I felt the same about the elephant “sanctuary,” after further investigation, I found this place to be way more of a gimmick than any type of safe haven for animals and I did not participate in the activities despite prepaying for them.

Another thing to look forward to in Ubud is the shopping. There are things to purchase everywhere you look and street vendors will be eager for your attention. Know that price haggling is expected so never accept the first price! Some things I purchased here are incense, teas, woven items and a few linen pieces of clothing. I also purchased a beautiful traditional Balinese outfit, which I wore to dinner while in Ubud!

Speaking of incense, all of Bali smells of this beautiful aroma pretty much 24/7. Every storefront, temple and private home lights incense as part of their daily offering, which is called Canang sari. These are usually based in a woven bamboo container and include rice, flowers, incense, sweets, fruits, spices and sometimes a cigarette. This is an offering to the Gods, as a gesture of gratitude (LokaYogaSchool.com). So as you're walking about, don't forget to look down and see these stunning offerings.