Compared to a few years ago, there has been a massive change on the island. One that is being felt by all and that has its pros and cons. A lot of development has come to Bali, commercialism, an unbelievable rise in the price of accommodation (especially long-term accommodations), lawlessness, more scams, and even more traffic. The Island of the Gods has become a bit of an island of chaos, and currently, the local government has continued to put various laws and measures in an attempt to combat these negative changes. Thankfully amidst all this chaos, one can intentionally seek out ways to still have a peaceful and life-changing experience in Bali.
During my time there, I received countless questions and requests for tips about visiting and living on the island. Like any other place, living in Bali came with its pros and cons, so here is my honest opinion and experience of living in and visiting various areas in Bali!  Yoga Barn, Ubud
First up- UBUD
THE VIBE Upon arriving in Bali, it was crucial for me to relax. I yearned to simply be, release, and connect with my higher self. If you seek a similar experience for your vacation, I highly recommend spending time in Ubud. For me, spending a month there was exactly what I needed, and the timing of my visit felt divinely guided. There is an undeniable sense of spirituality in this part of Bali that makes it truly special. It's hard to put into words, but you can easily feel it in the air. Being in Ubud also felt like being in the heart of a big hug. Compared to other popular places in Bali, I found it effortless to meet new people. One of my most memorable experiences of being in this town was connecting with unforgettable individuals and receiving continuous support and kindness, even from strangers.  My first homestay experience in Bali
 One of the relatives was an artist, this is his studio housed in the same compound
Accomodation
During my time in Ubud, I stayed at an Airbnb in a traditional family compound for one month. My time there felt like an immersive homestay experience. While I highly recommend it as an affordable way to gain a firsthand understanding of Balinese culture, I must admit that this type of accommodation may not be suitable for everyone, especially for extended stays.  Locals attending a ceremony in Ubud.
ACTIVITIES
Observe and Experience Local Life Witnessing offerings, grand ceremonies, and the sacred temples in Ubud is an incredible experience. This enchanting town has always been my favorite place in Bali, and this time, being on the island for a more extended period allowed me to slow down, immerse myself, and deeply observe the religious way of life practiced by the locals. There's so much to see and explore! Deep Dive in Wellness There are numerous options for wellness in Ubud. As you may have imagined, yoga studios are abundant, along with other facilities that engage in holistic practices. I gravitated towards breath-work meditation at Yoga Barn, sound healing at Pyramids of Chi, and private craniosacral therapy sessions.  Sound healing at Pyramids of Chi.
 Lunch at Yoga Barn, Ubud
Spend Time in Nature
Most activities in Ubud revolve around nature. The Campuhan Ridge Walk, a scenic and relaxing trail away from the bustling streets, is a must-do during your stay. There are also nearby waterfalls and rice terraces worth visiting. Visit the Blanco Renaissance Museum The Blanco Renaissance Museum is a hidden gem that often gets overlooked by many visitors, and I feel fortunate to have stumbled upon this treasure while exploring the Campuan area. Antonio Blanco built this enchanting and lush compound shortly before his death, and it exquisitely commemorates his life and work. You may want to take some time to enjoy the property, and a visit here can be perfectly combined with lunch at Zest café, just a 5-10 minute walk away. Explore the Shops While I didn't come across noteworthy fashion shops in Ubud, there are plenty of streets offering a wide array of locally made goods. Jalan Hanoman, Jalan Monkey Forest, Jalan Raya Ubud, and Jalan Goutama are just a few of the streets that are worth exploring, even if just for fun. Here, you can explore art markets, small shops, and street vendors selling an array of items, particularly handmade crafts made from wood, woven plant materials, and batik fabrics. For unique and intricately made wooden kitchen goods, the Ubdy brand shop is our go-to place. Though slightly pricey, the difference in craftsmanship and quality is well worth it, especially for special plates and cutting boards. Another shop worth mentioning is Utama Spice, as it was my go-to for high-quality, natural skincare products like body wash, hand soap and oils. Their all-natural mosquito repellent is a must-have in Bali! Additionally, consider visiting Kaindra, a small boutique located next to Zest café, which is also worth a visit if you happen to be in the area.  Escaping the tourist at the rice terraces in Ubud
 Wearing my by SHANYA Strings Attached Dress.
 A bestseller at Sayuri, Ubud
EATS
Ubud offers a plethora of restaurants, and below is a list of places I frequented during my stay: 1. Sayuri- I spent a lot of my time here, having meals, listening to live music, and occasionally working. You will be filled with more than food at this vegan cafe that feels like home, and wearing shoes is optional. My absolute favorite meal on their menu is the Immunity Smoothie Bowl, and if you’re a fan of smoothie bowls, you are in for a treat! Be sure to check out Sayuri’s live music performances, especially after yoga and meditation sessions. The performers hail from all parts of the world, and the sounds are incredible and a huge highlight of my time in Ubud.  Immunity Smoothie at Sayuri
2. Clear Café- A fun space offering plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. It is also great for remote work. On the second floor, you'll find a spa and entertainment area. I highly recommend getting a massage at their spa, as it is affordable and one of the best on the island.
3. Kafe- This restaurant has charming rustic decor and a diverse menu, including Jamaican jerk chicken! I particularly enjoyed sitting on the balcony and people-watching. 4. Watercress- One of my top picks for brunch, thanks to its attentive staff and mouthwatering menu options. 5. Milk & Madu- Another great choice for brunch and my go-to pizza place. I also recommend trying any of their dishes with polenta. Keep in mind that it can get busy during peak times.  The best eggs I've had in my life at Watercress, Ubud
 Interior at Liap Liap restaurant, Ubud
6. Zest- This large vegan restaurant, tucked away from the busy roads, feels like an oasis within an oasis. It is a great place to meet new people and work remotely. While the food was not my favorite, I was drawn to the vibe of the space. 7. Liap Liap- A small restaurant that offers a modern take on Indonesian cuisine. I am also a big fan of its interior design. There is a pool at the back (at Folk Pool & Gardens) that's an oasis for cooling off during the day. 8. Warung Colada- I usually avoid the local warungs for fear of getting sick on vacation. I can safely say that I have eaten at this family-run warung countless times and have never had a problem. I usually got the grilled whole fish! 9. BALIKU- Another favorite local option in Ubud, favored by many foreigners living in the area. I usually opted for their soups and curried fish (similar to a soup), but I always asked for less salt- generally a good tip when ordering from a warung. I especially loved interacting with the local aunties that managed and served at this restaurant. They always greeted and welcomed me back as if it were home. 10. Mudra Café- A cute cafe with many vegetarian and vegan options. Shoes are not allowed inside. The smoothie bowl is pretty but not very tasty. I just enjoyed being there for the drinks and decor.  Folk Pool & Gardens (behind Liap Liap)
THINGS TO NOTE:
Ceremonies in Ubud are beautiful and awe-inspiring but can also cause significant traffic congestion. I recommend staying informed about upcoming ceremonies and planning your day accordingly. Ubud has countless cheap massage spas. While they are affordable, keep in mind that you get what you pay for. For a proper massage experience, I recommend visiting Clear Café's spa or Kamalika Spa at Art Hotel. Cafés and restaurants frequently open and close in Bali, so I'm sure that by the time you visit, there will be many more amazing places to try. As mentioned earlier, Bali has become increasingly chaotic, prompting the government to enforce new laws to restore order. This includes changes to visa rules and regulations regarding scooter usage on the island. Be sure to check the updates on latest developments when planning your trip.  My favorite Balinese homestay experience at Family Guest House.
I'm certain that there are many other aspects of being in Ubud that may have slipped my mind. However, the main takeaway is this- despite the challenges and changes that Bali is currently facing, it still remains a place where one can intentionally seek peace and embark on a life-changing journey. The month I spent in this spiritual oasis provided a sanctuary for self-discovery, connection, and rejuvenation. Stay tuned for Part 2 of my Being in Bali series as I continue to share the tips and insights gathered from being on this island." XX Shanya |
