How To Have a Sensory Treat in Ubud - Bali

When you hear of Indonesia, you are likely to imagine its beautiful beaches and its world famous surf that you know of as Bali. But do you know that there is more to Indonesia than the surf and its must see beaches?

Indonesia is actually very rich in culture and history. Just think about this, in the earlier centuries, Indonesia used to be a middle ground for trade among other Southeast Asian countries. So during that time, Indonesia was absorbing so much power and influence from other nations as they were also nurturing theirs.

So where is Indonesia hiding its rich cultural and historical influences? In a town of course in Bali, Indonesia called the Ubud District. Since the arrival of this German artist named Walter Spies who taught the arts in that area, tourists and other artists have since been visiting Ubud making the district Bali’s cultural center.

If you have the budget and up for a sensory treat, Ubud, Bali is the place to be. Whether you go alone, with your best friend or a significant other, a cultural experience in Ubud, Bali is a must of a lifetime.

Once you are packed and decided to go to the Ubud District, here are some travel tips on how you can treat yourself with the ultimate sensory experience.

• Get yourself pampered. Bali is a tourist destination because of its tropical weather and colorful surroundings. This makes it a perfect niche for spas and other retreat places. So when you get to Ubud, give yourself the much deserved pampering even if it means spending a few extra dollars. Bali is known for its Balinese massages. You can have it done by the beach or within the four walls of a spa that is far from the noise and hustle and bustle of the city. It will be all worth it.
• Watch the sunrise and the sunset. Nothing beats the serene feelings of hearing the waves crash on the shore while watching the sunrise or the sunset. In Ubud, there is no winter. This makes it perfect to stay outdoors and watch the natural courses of nature take place.
• Experience the food. This is a tip for any traveler in a foreign country. Southeast Asian countries are known for their wide array of flavors that can tickle your taste buds. Since Ubud, Bali is an island in Indonesia, expect a lot of seafood. To experience Bali dining at its finest, you might want to chuck away your utensils and dine at a bayside restaurant the Balinese way (with your bare hands). If you like their food, you can take your Ubud experience a notch higher by enrolling in a short course in Bali cooking in one of the culinary schools at the district.
• Explore Ubud. Sign up on day trips or if you are the adventurous type, interact with the natives and get yourself oriented about the town and the places to go. The Ubud District is known for its Elephant Cave which showcases Hindu and Buddhist ruins. Furthermore, check out the temples and go on day treks, which bring you to the mountainside and the volcano of Gunung Batur.

So if you think you deserve the getaway, what are you waiting for? Visit Ubud, Bali. (Yael Woods)