April 24 - Day 2 Afternoon: Ubud, Uluwatu, and Nusa Dua

By 1:30PM, the group shall depart to Ubud known as the artistic heart of Bali. A photographic stop shall be made first in the fabulous Tegalalang rice terraces. As in most Asian cultures, the cultivation of rice is a deeply embedded tradition in Bali. What makes Tegalalang special is that the rows and rows of rice terraces are carved in the hilly acreage right at the roadside. The grand spectacle cannot be more easier to the foot than it is to the eyes.

Upon reaching the central Ubud, the group are free to explore the generously cool climate of a town 600 meters above sea level. It is here in Ubud that artists from around the globe set up shops, boutiques and workshops while experiencing rustic Balinese life. From artworks like paintings, sculptures and photographs, real originals are displayed in sleek galleries besides stalls showing the cheaper art reproductions. While the town is no longer the quiet reserve that it used to be, Ubud still boasts of a cool climate, being 600 meters above sea level. Start at the Ubud Market. Browse through boundless displays of wood carvings, batik shirts, sarongs and souvenirs.

for sale at a souvenir shop Ι Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

Visit the centuries-old Ubud Palace where the royal family still live. Tourist are graciously welcomed inside the courtyard although the interiors remain exclusively private. Another alternative is the Ubud monkey forest but beware of the naughty monkeys who may snatch trinkets off unwary visitors. Or relax in the numerous cafes and coffee shops peperring the main streets. Try the traditional ice sundae called es kacang.

Ubud is 33 km from Kuta and 10 km from Denpasar.

Ubud Palace, Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

At 4:00PM, the group shall depart for the famous temple of Uluwatu. As one of Bali's eight kayangan jagat or directional temples, it guards Bali from evil spirits from the southwest. Pura Uluwatu is perched on a steep limestone cliff overlooking the world famous surf break of the Bukit peninsula. It is one of two most famous temples with picturesque sunset views in Bali, the other being Pura Tanah Lot.

Pura Uluwatu, Jimbaran, Bali Indonesia

There are two cliffside promontories flanking the Uluwatu temple. Both the northside and southside walkways offer spectacular views of the sunset over the Indian Ocean. At the center is the holy temple that is quite ancient. Founded in the 10^th century, the temple is a sanctuary of both people and a population of teeming monkeys. Like the primates in Ubud, they can be are serious pests so heed the warning and remove your jewelry, caps, eyeglasses and any valuable objects. Hold on to your camera and bags tightly. They are notorious in swiping earrings off your ears or enterprisingly opening velcro-latched pouchues.

Uluwatu sunset

By 6:30, the group shall head back to Nusa Dua. Dining selections abound in Jln Pantai Mengiat. Recommended is Mai Mai Restaurant, which has a relaxed homey atmosphere and traditional Balinese dance entertainment. The $2-4 choices are a steal. And don’t forget to try the complimentary arak or coconut wine. Try the life of an epicure for once!

Mai Mai restaurant offers classical dance entertainment