image by Jared Rice
Ubud, Bali
Ubud is probably our favourite place in Asia. We’ve been at least 5 times in six years.
Our last visit seemed to coincide with some serious changes as the tourist accommodation seems to be encroaching (unpleasantly) on the rice fields to the north and the market has been pulled down. Plus an entirely unnecessary Starbucks appeared on the main road a couple of years ago.
The pavements are better than before, but I hope that the clear improvement in tourism doesn’t lead to a spoiling Kuta-ifiction. The tragic standard lament of the tourist.
Eat
Cafe Lotus
Jl. Raya Ubud • thecafelotusubud.com
Set against a temple, with a beautiful lily pond. You’ll see it next to Starbucks on the main road through Ubud.
There’s often a traditional dance show on a weekend evening you’ll want to sit on the traditional low seating for the best view. The local food is good and the place is always busy.
They shouldn’t have stopped selling Storm beer (dead) though.
Tutmak
Mozaic
Jl. Raya Sanggingan • mozaicbali.com
Just some of the best food anywhere in Asia. Amazing tasting menu accompanied bay wine for every course. You’ll need to book.
Stay
Lady Bamboo
Jl. Kajeng • ladybamboo.de
We always stay at Lady Bamboo, it’s owned by a friendly German/Balinese couple. Very central, few rooms and tucked away from the madness on the edge of a river.
Nice pool, good food and they’ve even got a little spa now.
Last updated on November 26th, 2012