Tall Trees

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

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

Ibu Rai

Ibu Rai

Ibu Rai, along one of Ubud’s main streets, is a perfect spot to grab a sundowner and await the towns nightlife.

Having come from among the Kajang rice fields, we’re not overly hungry after a late lunch at Sweet Orange Warung, nor are we quite ready to head back to the hotel.… Read the rest

Ubud Palace

Ubud Palace

Ubud Palace (locally, Puri Saren Agung) is located in the heart of Ubud. This previously quiet town, known for its rice paddies and relaxation, is now the buzzing center of Bali‘s ‘yoga’ tourism. Long the destination of backpackers, seeking cheap beer alongside authentic experience, Ubud was catapulted into fame when it put the ‘love’ into Julia Roberts’ 2010 blockbuster Eat Pray Love.Read the rest

Jimbaran Beach

Jimbaran Beach

At the end of a wonderful day of Bali sightseeing, we make it to Jimbaran Beach, just in time for an iconic Balinese sunset.

Toris, our guide, has recommended the Ganesha Cafe and we are quickly seated at a table on the beach with views of the sunset.… Read the rest

GWK Cultural Park

GWK Cultural Park

The Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) Cultural Park is located almost in the geographical centre of Bali’s Bukit Peninsula. Despite this, the huge statue of Wisnu and Garuda, one of Bali’s most iconic landmarks, can be seen from many vantage points around the island.… Read the rest

Luwak Coffee

Bukit Sari Agro Pecatu Coffee Plantation

The Bukit Sari Luwak Coffee Plantation is less of a plantation (the plantations are elsewhere – scattered around the island) and more of a shopfront. Nevertheless it’s a lovely little leafy green detour. Located on the road between Uluwatu Temple and the Garunda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) Cultural Park, you can stop here for a short coffee tour and talk, followed by a free tasting.… Read the rest