Twenty years ago, we stayed at a home stay in Ubud. Clean, charming, cheap, good food. On TripAdvisor, I see that it has remained charming, though I am not sure how cheap it is anymore. Ubud is a must for a lot of cultural experience. It is full of 4- and 5-star hotels, so something cheap and good is hard to come by. The owner, Ketut, is a really helpful, friendly man, if he still owns it and runs it. http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g297701-d639773-Reviews-Ketut_s_Place-Ubud_Bali.html

Posted Aug 13, 2012

Dear Jenny,

Lucky of you that you get to spend 2 weeks in Bali.. I travel to Bali a lot for work and vacations, solo and with friends and here's my personal preference.
3 major areas to explore are:
Area 1: Legian, Seminyak for lifestyle, bars, funky boutiques, affordable spas! all kind of dinings. This is the closest from the airport, so I will advice to explore these area. during first few days to get a vibe of the island... The area is safe, fun and walkable, close to the beach (although not the best beaches in Bali, but it's still nice).
Hotels: Tanaya B&B is in the heart of Legian, its very affordable and clean though the room is a bit small.
Dining: definitely must go to Rumours Italian Restaurant, only opens for dinner. Then try the chic Asian fusion Mama-san for cocktail (and dinner). Whenever I travel alone I always spend some time at Biku for high tea and browsing through their secondhand books selection. Naughty Nuri's Ribs in Batubelig is a must visit too.
Hangout/people watching: KuDeta and Cocoon.. I cant choose which one I like better, they're both are awesome. KuDeta is best for sunset, Coccon for late night drinks.
Area 2: Nusa Dua, where all the poshest and nicest hotels and resorts are.
The most affordable one is Novotel Nusa Dua, they often have promotions. They have private beach and close to Tanjung Benoa, the place to play all water sports.
To do: bar hopping to The Rock, bar by the cliff, have massage at Jari Menari (the best massage in Bali) or just hang out at the beach. My must visit beaches: Padang Padang Beach for relaxing, and Blue Point Beach also has a nice view to see the waves (cant sunbath here, mostly ppl surf).
Area 3: of course, Ubud, the art center. It's a bit further from the city center so spend at least 3 days here.
To stay: Agung Raka Bungalow is a gazebo style with extensive view of rice terrace. Get the superior room as the standard one isn't as nice.
To eat: Cafe Lotus, go at night where you can watch traditional dance by outdoor, Lakaleke has the best fried duck Ive tasted in Bali, and amazing view too.. some ppl will recommend Bebek Bengil, but Lakaleke is more a hidden gem and I say tastes better.
To do: Shop till drop at Ubud Market then have lunch at Bu Oka Suckling Pig (only open for lunch), sightseeing at Tegalalang Rice Terrace.

Besides these, of course temple visit are a must, my most memorable ones are: Tanah Lot, Pura Tirta Empul the holy water temple. If you have time, you can check out more.

Tips: It's very useful to hire a driver, average cost per day is usd 35-50 depending on the car. Most of the driver speaks english too so they can be double as a guide. And at the market, always bargain at least 30% from the offered price and just walk away when they refused to give you.., you'll be surprised to see how much you can buy =)! Enjoy your trip!

Posted Aug 14, 2012