Brilio.net/en - Located in the middle of the Gianyar rainforest, just 30 minutes away from Denpasar, Ubud is a town unlike any otherin the world; a place where history, artistry, and spirituality becomes one, offering a unique experience for any visitor. Whether visiting for the first time or on a return trip, the town is never short on fascinating things to discover.
The beauty of Ubud is well documented in the works of art created by local artists long before tourists starting swarming its premises. From the paintings of I Gusti Nyoman Lempad (1862-1978), among the pioneers of Balineseart, to the works of European painters Rudolf Bonnet and Walter Spies, the charm of its nature and serene ambiance have become a source of inspiration, calling many to set up camp in the town aroudn the 1920s.
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But there are much more than just paintings and other forms of art to enjoy in Ubud.As the years go by, unique and creative designers have also made their way to this town, making it a great destination for lovers of silver jewelry, fashion, accessories, and other handicrafts. And as more and more people decide to make a home out of this quiet village, it has slowly come to life and evolved into a place that is slightly dfferent from the ones captured in earlier paintings.
For one, choice of food have become more diverse over the years, with various restaurants serving almost any kind of food, from local to international delicacies. All of that, paired with views of paddy fields make the hour-long trip from the beaches of Bali more than worth it.
If you are a morning person, a walk along the Campuhan hill also makes for a refreshing trek, followed by a sip ofcoffee alongJalan Raya Sanggingan. If you've got time,play around with themonkeys at the Wanara Wana, known as Monkey Forest and after that, go for a walk and shop along Jalan Monkey Forest, Jalan Dewi Sita, all the way to Jalan Hanoman and the Ubud Art Market.Later in the day,pay a visit to old Ubuds palace, Puri Ubud. It has a dance performance every evening, so make sure you stay long enough to watch it.
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If you'd like to sample local tastes, Babi Guling Ibu Oka onJalan Suweta serves one of the most popular Balinese specialties: suckling pig. But if you are a vegetarian,fret not. Ubud is also home to more than enough vegetarian restaurants or regular restaurants that serve great vegetarian menu.
And while in Ubud, go farther to Tegallalang to see the magnificent rice field terraces at Ceking and try the luwak (civet) coffee served at the nearby plantation (check one of them here). Don't forget to make a stop atGoa Gajah, the only Buddhist historical site found in Bali, where most other sites are those of the Hindu religion. On your way back to the beach or the airport, make a stop atthe Sukawati Art Market where you can find cheap handicrafts, souvenirs, or paintings to bring home.