What was supposed to be a solo trip turned into a serendipitous rendevous with one of my dear college friends and creative collaborators, who happened to be in the Philippines right as I was planning to tour Bali, and then Manila. He ended up joining me for an adventure in Bali. During the trip, we discovered this very affordable family-owned bed and breakfast in the heart of Ubud, where our room was open to and surrounded by nature (not for the squeamish jetsetter- I found a mouse on my towel one night, and bugs and howling cats were aplenty). Nevertheless, the place was a serene retreat. Our hosts made us feel at home, and the traditional decor was gorgeous, as you can see.