heavy weights & dreams : Ubud.

This is all about what I did in Ubud. We stayed in Ubud for 2 days before heading to Seminyak since Ubud is a little further . I went to Bali numerous times before this but Ubud is never in the plan . It is always around Kuta, Seminyak and Nusa Dua.

So I was pretty excited to be around Ubud. This part of Bali actually keep many of their traditional architecture and houses so there is no buildings . There are many holiday villas for rent in every part of Ubud - but to be convenient, we chose to stay in the Central

# The Artini Resort

We chose Artini Resort out of the few choices - there is two hotels from the Artini Group but we decided to stay in the one nearer to the Monkey Road. Besides convenience , this resort that we stayed in is designed in traditional Balinese styled with nature. The view from the Hotel is very amazing ; they maintained their own garden and they also have a view of the rice fields. Despite located in central , it is located in the midst of rice fields.

Morning View.

The hotel room is pretty huge. They have different range of rooms but we opt for the one with view and near the poolside bar so we top up a little more. The breakfast is pretty decent too.

The mini infinity pool view - instead of the sea or buildings , we are looking at nature.

This resort is so worth it , and I actually wished to stay a lil longer. This is the definition of leisure.

#2 Tirta Gangga

Tirta Gangga requires entrance fees but it is reasonable since they need to maintain this beautiful royal garden. The first thing that comes into view when you step in, is a pond where guardian figures are arranged. The place are not very huge so it could be done in half an hour because I don't think it's a good idea to stay under the hot sun for so long.

You can try to finish the steps on the pond and many people will be trailing behind. As for pictures wise , please be careful not to fall into the pond.

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#3 Pura Lempuyang Temple

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This picture is the classic picture you see on instagram that screams ' Bali represent' .

This is taken in the Lempuyang Temple where it is one of the oldest and most highly regarded temples in Bali hence there are restrictions. Like, you have to wear sarung , and not allow to lean on the statutes. You need to do a 5mins hike up to the temple from the bottom.

Inside of the temple , you can already see the Gateway of Heaven where it grants spectacular view of Mt Agung. If you want your picture to be more beautiful , come before the sunset.

However, you need to queue for around 45 mins or more just for the photos - so be early or be prepared to wait.

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#4 Bali Asli

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Bali Asli is a combination of restaurant, cooking school and a tourism destination. They are located far from the hectic bustle Bali and serve authentic flavours of Bali. This place is worth visiting since it is so beautiful - with the stunning location overlooking Mount Agung.

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This lunch view.

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There are only two set menus available so it made it really simple. The choices of dishes are seasonal each day , depending on what the chef find at the market in the morning.

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The food is great however the portion is definitely not for someone whom is really hungry or has a big appetite. It is pretty 'fine' in portion but it is really worth trying.

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#5 Monkey Forest Street / Ubud Palace

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Take walk around the Monkey Forest street ; where you can do some shopping and sit around for cafes. As you walk down the street , you will reach Monkey Forest Sanctuary however, we skipped the part and walk right down to Ubud Palace as seen above.

The whole walk from the resort we stayed in to Ubud Palace is around 30mins walk or longer . It didn't feel far since we were looking around the street. I think it is a kind of experience to do so. If you are too lazy , you can order grab which is a cheaper option compare to their taxi services. One downside is , it is very difficult to order grab since it is not as popular yet in Ubud.

#6 Hujan Locale

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Hujan Locale serves heritage Asian cuisine with a twist, highlighting balinese cuisine. The restaurant is very beautiful as he carries a vintage theme with colonial style windows and doors but not lacking of modernization. We were seated upstairs which is a little tight since it was full house on the second floor. The environment is pretty dim, and romantic - perfect for a date night.

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I am not a fan of pork belly, but this pork belly is to die for. Crunchy skin and the meat melt in my mouth. It's not on the all day menu. It was on special menu.

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Quality Food.

#7 Ubud Market

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This is the best place of handcraft souvenirs.

Don't forget to negotiate!

#8 Bebek Bengil

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Bebek Bengil which means 'dirty duck' in Indonesian , is the specialty here as you can see from the name of the restaurant. It is not particularly amazing for me because it's a little too dry. I like the duck satay a lot though! The whole combination is good with the spices and sambal tumis given . Personally, I prefer the nasi campur here instead of their classic dish .

#9 Tegallalang Rice Fields