Arriving at Kuta Beach can feel like stepping from one world into another. We have driven from the relative peace and seclusion of Ceking Rice Terraces to arrive in Bali’s bustling streets. Here the chaotic pulse of local traffic is impossible to ignore.… Read the rest
Ceking Rice Terraces
Tucked away in the heart of Bali, near the village of Tegallalang, are the Ceking Rice Terraces. The terraces are a mesmerizing patchwork of vibrant green terraced fields, a majestic green paradise that immediately captures my imagination.
The rice terraces of Bali offer a unique glimpse into the agricultural heritage of the region.… Read the rest
Ubud Water Palace
Nestled in the heart of Bali, the Ubud Water Palace, also known as Saraswati Temple (Pura Taman Saraswati), is one of the island’s most enchanting landmarks. It is a large, relatively new temple (pura), built for the Ubud royal family.… Read the rest
Goa Gajah
The Goa Gajah Temple is one of Bali’s most iconic and ancient archaeological sites. Often referred to as the Elephant Cave, Goa Gajah is located in the village of Bedulu, near Ubud in Bali. We have arrived fresh from lunch at Bebek Joni, a local restaurant specialising in duck dishes only 2 minutes away.… Read the rest
Bebek Joni
Just 5km, or 10 minutes by car, from Kemenuh Village and Tegenungan Waterfall, is Bebek Joni. This restaurant is renowned for its duck dishes. Having said that, on arrival, it feels more like entering a spa than a restaurant.… Read the rest
Tegenungan Waterfall
The Tegenungan Waterfall is a 15m tall waterfall located just 10km south west of Ubud. It’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. This is an attraction where you can come to Tegenungan Kemenuh (or Kemenuh Village) for half an hour or half a day, depending on your agenda.… Read the rest
Batuan Temple
Batuan Temple (Pura Puseh Desa Batuan) is a large temple complex located near Ubud in the south east of the island. We have come here directly from the Barong and Keris Cultural Dance this morning and, allowed to enter only whilst wearing appropriate local dress, we kit up for the occasion.… Read the rest
The Barong and Keris Cultural Dance
The Barong and Keris Cultural Dance performance is a play told by dance and music. The performance represents the eternal fight between good and evil. Good is represented by the mythical, lion-like animal, the Barong, protector of the village.… Read the rest
Tall Trees
An afternoon and evening of pure R&R awaits us at Tall Trees, part of the Westin Resort, Ubud. This is a tropical retreat that you could be forgiven for not wanting to leave. As much as there is to do and see around the area, after a morning at the Ubud Monkey Forest Sanctuary, we elect to spend the rest of the day enjoying the resort and its facilities.… Read the rest
Ubud Monkey Forest Sanctuary
The Ubud Monkey Forest Sanctuary is a must see destination whilst in Ubud. This important local temple, famed for its monkey inhabitants, has a long history, and according to tradition it’s the monkeys who rule here.
Known locally as Mandala Suci Wenara Wana, the site is home to around 1300 long tailed Balinese macaque monkeys.… Read the rest