Exploring Ubud

Location

Ubud is located right in the center of Bali between Nusa Dua and Kintamani. From the airport it takes about 50 minutes by car or scooter.

Accommodation

First of all we need to say, that Ubud offers amazing accommodations for little money, so you will defintely find a stay where you will feel comfortable for a good price. But of course, there are differences between different kind of accommodation, so here´s a short definition: 

Homestays: usually run by a family; everything you need provided (+mostly breakfast a la carte); BUT: often no one can be reached at night, because owners drive home themselves

Hotels: as you know from other countries,: extra comfort, daily clean up, mostly pool and brekfast (-buffet), 24/7 service desk

Capung Cottages

@amelieclemens

If you are looking for a little more comfort, and also like to enjoy a day relaxing by the pool, this accommodation might be perfect for you. Surrounded by the jungle, Capung Cottages is the perfect place to relax. Still it´s located near the center of Ubud; this way, you can choose your activities for the day spontaniously everyday, You can also book delicious breakfast there, so there will be nothing to worry about.

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Darba Guest House Ubud

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Darba Guest House is located on a tiny side street off Ubud's main road. This makes the location great for anyone who wants to be in the center of the city in less than 10 minutes and still want to avoid the street noise. We really loved the large size of the room, its brightness, and not to forget: the most amazing breakfast; you can choose bewteen pancaked, toast and traditional balinese breakfast items, which are served so lovingly, that we could nt imagine a better start in the day! Please note: This homestay offers no pool, so if you´d like to spend some days with just relaxing in your accommodation, it´s up to you, if this one will fulfill your wishes.

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Pak Vo Guest House

@amelieclemens

Pak Vo Guesthouse was our first accommodation in Ubud. Therefore we love it. You will get a really simple room with everything you need, can order breakfast everyday spontaniously, and they even have a pool where you can cool down after a long day of walking and exploring Ubud. Since we prefer to stay in local accommodations, to support the locals, and are out and about all day anyway, we don't mind if the accommodations are kept without extra frills, as long as we have everything we need and the rooms are clean. So if you are backpackers and low budget like us, Pak Vo will be perfect for you, especially for 15$ a night for two people. But if you are looking for a fancy stay to relax and treat yourself, you may have to look for something else.

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How to get around

1. Scooter Rental

If you know us, you may´ve guest it: we would always recommend you to get yourself a scooter. This way, you can get around really flexible. Since a lot of attractions can get really overflowed during the day, we were able to be there early in the morning before all the other tourists got there. We also loved to explore the area without any specific intensions and found the cutest cafes and places this way. 

Santun Scooter Rental

@amelieclemens

We can recommend this scooter rental for - fair price (Vario: 65 000Rp/3,90€ a day; negotiable) - kind owners - free helmets - new and good scooters - scooter insurance available (before rental starts, extra (200 000 Rp/12€, if you want to be covered in case your scooter breaks down) -->for scooter, NOT for your health or injuries!!!

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2. Grab & Taxi

In Bali it is very easy to get a taxi that will take you from A to B low cost. We would recommend you to download the GRAB app in which you will find rides for the best prices. After a while you will be able to estimate for yourself the price that a ride may cost you and thus you can assess which deals you are getting into better. Attention!: in Ubud there is a kind of "taxi mafia" that wants to prevent the grave from being used there. That's why there are prohibition signs on many corners prohibiting taxi companies, even though this is not the case at all. So don't fall for the scam. Especially in Ubud, they will try to force a ride on you at every corner. Before you make such a deal, check the prices on Grab!

3. Book a Driver

If you don't feel confident in riding a scooter and want to see a lot without organizing much, then we would recommend taking a driver for a longer period of time. They will then pick you up from your accommodation at the agreed time and take you to the attractions you would like to see. If you're lucky, the mostly Balinese drivers know a few hidden gems that they can show you on your day trip. Most of the time, the price is quite cheap, especially by European standards, although it also depends on the distance you are covering. Please make sure to add at least a small tip to the price. We got to know a taxi driver who drives for GRAB, but is certainly also available as a driver for a few days. (Please keep in mind, that he lives in Canggu, so you may have to pay him for the extra distance he has to go to pick you up somewhere in Ubud!)

Made Murti: +62-819-1672-4445

What makes Ubud so special?

Ubud has its own charm, which starts as soon as you enter the jungle when you arrive. What we would like to recommend to you : take your time to explore the city and its surroundings; we discovered the most beautiful places mostly by chance, when we drove around "aimlessly" with the scooter. Because sometimes a trip without a plan can lead to the most beautiful destination. We were enchanted by Ubud not because of the typical attractions, but because of the many unexpected discoveries that ultimately made the city our home in our hearts. We will therefore give you a few of these "hidden gems" along with all the other beautiful places that can be found in Ubud:

What to do

Because there is a lot to see in Ubud, we have divided the to-dos into three categories: action, relax and "for foodies". Feel free to check out everything so you don't miss anything!

What to do: Action

Ubud Palace

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At the Ubud Palace, the traditional Legong Dance is performed almost every evening, which tells the story of Java, the large side island of Bali. It is particularly impressive that the performers still dance light-footed across the stage under great effort. The dance is a good opportunity to get to know the culture a bit in an authentic ambience. Price: 6€/person (2023)

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Pura Dalem Taman Kaja

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Another traditional dance performance you can watch in Ubud is the Kecak Dance, a dance that tells Indonesian tales, and ends with a fire show with a difference. Really special about it is the male choir that accompanies the whole representation. Price: 6€/person

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Ubud Silversmith

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If you like to wear jewelry, you should definitely take a course in a silversmith in Ubud. We forged our own individual rings there and learned a lot about the craft. (You can't work stones into the rings in this silversmith!) Price: 12€/person (ring+making)

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What you should not miss in Bali  as well is a cooking lesson, in which you will learn and cook authentic Balinese recipes. Of course you will be allowed to eat your selfmade meals at the end. In most cases, you`ll visit a food market beforehand, where you learn a lot about local food, and can also try a thing or two there. It's easy to find the cooking classes online or  on site, but since we weren't entirely convinced by the cooking class we tried, we don't want to recommend them to you.

Bali Pulina

@amelieclemens

In Ubud you can do wonderful coffee tastings. A special feature is definitely the Luwak coffee, which is considered one of the most special and pricey in the world. We chose the Pulina Coffee Plantation, and we want to recommend it to you as well. After a free guided tour, during which you will learn about the cultivation of coffee, cinnamon, vanilla, and many other spices, you can taste the home's own coffee and tea varieties with a unique view over the jungle. Price: depends on your order (please appreciate the work of the staff with a tasting afterwards. It doesn't cost much, and for free pool access and guided tour, a small subsidy is only fair.) Insider tip: if you ask, you can take a dip in the Pulina natural pool, which is beautiful and hidden. Attention: unfortunately, animal welfare is not yet particularly taken into account in some places in Bali. On almost all coffee plantations, you will unfortunately come across Luwak cats. In Pulina we would have estimated the enclosures to be relatively large, but the sight still hurts a bit. Because of this we decided to drink just normal coffee instead of luwak-coffee.

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Luwak Coffee: Critics and production

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Pura Tirta Empul

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Pura Tirta Empul is a temple of Balinese Hinduism located just 20 minutes from Ubud. The temple is dedicated to Vishnu, one of the most significant divine forms of Hinuism, and is known for its sacred spring, which plays an important role in religious ceremonies and purification rituals of Balinese Hindus. Even as a tourist, you can bathe in the holy water dressed in a sarong. It's best to orient yourself to the locals on how you should behave. Please behave appropriately - after all, the Balinese entrust you with their culture. You can either book a tour for a visit, or do it on your own. In this case, we would recommend that you get there as early as possible so that you can avoid the crowds that arrive from 10am at the latest. Price: ca. 3€/person (2023)

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Goa Gajah

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Goa Gajah is a cave that was only discovered in 2008. To explore it, you can take a guided tour of fruit and spice plantations, and the labyrinth, which was probably built about 750 years ago, before you get to the cave, which is definitely worth a visit - especially for its history. The hike takes about 2.5 hours and leads through the rainforest and the shallow river Petanu, among other things. So definitely suitable for adventurers. Price: 20,50€/person (2023) The cave can only be visited with a guide, not alone! (2023)

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Tibumana Waterfall

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In addition to the north of Bali, the surroundings of Ubud also have some waterfalls to offer. We went to see Tibumana and Taman Sari which were both lovely. Nevertheless, we would like to recommend you to go to the north for the really beautiful waterfalls, as there are by far the most beautiful ones. But if you prefer to stay in Ubud, we can still recommend the Tukad Cepung and the Sumampan. Price: 1-4€/person Insider tip: before you get to Tibumana waterfall, you will drive through one of Instagram`s most popular sceneries.

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Tegalalang

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One of the most famous attractions that Ubud has to offer is arguably the Tegallalang rice plantation. It gained its fame through the film "Eat, pray, love" with Julia Roberts. The rice terraces are definitely worth a visit, but be there as early as possible, you can imagine how crowded it can get. In case you can't find a "main entrance" right away - we just came in at one of the numerous entrances. You start your round at a different point depending on the entrance you choose. Price: 0€-6€/person Insider: We also weren´t ask to pay an entrance fee when we showed up at 7.45 am. (We came by scooter ourselves and cannot guarantee you the same with a driver!)

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Campuhan Ridge Walk

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just 10 minutes from the center of Ubud, you can take a walk through rice fields and the jungle on the Campuhan Ridge Walk. We decided to walk along it at sunrise - and can only recommend it to you. At this time, there are not that many people on the road. The total distance takes about 45 minutes. If you don't feel like it anymore, you can simply turn back. Price: - TIPP: If you want to take a little breather, you can stop at one of the small warungs that are waiting for you about halfway through. If you really want to relax, you will find the "Sunkissed Pool Bar" after the outward journey, where you can stop for a bite to eat and relax in the pool with a beautiful view.

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the sunkissed bar ubud - Bing

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Monkey forest

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First we were undecided whether we wanted to visit the Monkey Forest, because many attractions in Bali that benefit from animals do not treat them properly. However, since the monkeys can move freely, and there are no fences to the outside, we finally decided to go for it, and we didn't regret it – the monkeys are just beautiful to look at and sometimes a bit cheeky. Price: 3€/person TIP: don't get too close to the monkeys, don't look them in the eye, and don't carry anything glittery or edible with you. Open bags/backpacks could also be your undoing.

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Mason Adventure & Chocolate Centre

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If you're in the mood for some action-packed exploring, a quad bike tour through the jungle of Ubud or rafting might be just the thing for you! We've never done it ourselves to be honest, but we could imagine that it can be quite fun. price: depends on activity and package TIP: After a lot of action, relax at "Mason Chocolate", which is located only 5 minutes up the road. (Link below)

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Mason Chocolates - Elevating Indonesian Cacao

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One day tours

Besides of all the nice things you can do near Ubud, we want to suggest to you two trips, which can take up a whole day, but are also really worth it.

Kintamani

Mount Batur

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If you want to move a little more on holiday, you have the unique chance to take a hiking tour from Ubud to Batur, one of Bali's two large volcanoes, where you hike up the volcano for the sunrise. But beware: The tour usually starts at 1 a.m. – after all, you will be picked up from your accommodation and then driven to Batur with your group (about 20min). You can find offers for a tour litteraly everywhere in Ubud – just choose the one that suits you the most. Price: 15€-20/person (snack + breakfast + trasfer + tour) TIP: if you are about 5 people, you have the chance to have your own guide. We had to team up with a family that had a very hard time with the climb, because of which it took us much longer than we wanted. Insider: if this is not your first hike, you can also make your own way to Batur. The trail can be found easily due to the many people if you arrive at the same time as the tours start.

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Kintamani

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Kintamani is worth a visit even without a volcano tour. Also during the day you can spend time there in one of the cafes with a great view. And one thing is guaranteed: when you enter Kintamani for the first time, you won't be able to stop being amazed when you see the volcano in the valley – a sight not to be missed.

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Paperhills

@amelieclemens

Kintamani is worth a visit even without a volcano tour. Also during the day you can spend time there in one of the cafes with a great view. And one thing is guaranteed: when you enter Kintamani for the first time, you won't be able to stop being amazed when you see the volcano in the valley – a sight not to be missed. TIP. the Paperhills cafe offers you delicious food and drinks, and the best view ever!

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Sidemen

Sidemen

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If you are looking for the original Bali, you should definitely pay a visit to Sidemen. We immediately fell in love with the never-ending rice fields and mountain landscapes. It's about an hour away from Ubud by scooter, but if you want to see Bali's nature as untouched as possible, then it's worth the way.

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Gembleng Waterfall

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While you're there, check out Gembleng – a waterfall on top of a mountain that has formed natural pools over time where you can sit and enjoy the view. Price: Donation (please at least 3€/person, as people really care about the preservation of the site)

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What to do: Relax

Cretya Ubud

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If you are looking for maximum relaxation, you should visit "Cretya". In the middle of rice fields there is a modern and huge pool area where you can unwind. In addition to the pool and relaxation area, you can also eat in various restaurants and stroll through the associated rice fields. Because Cretya belongs to the complex "Alas Harun" – comparable to a privately run amusement park, consisting of pools, restaurants, rice fields, and swings where you can float over rice fields. Price: 3€ per person TIP: We would recommend you to come there right at the opening. Because from 11 o'clock all hell breaks loose there.

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Massage: In Ubud, you shouldn't miss a massage. Since there are so many salons in the city, we would recommend that you pick one that appeals to you. The price-performance ratio there is incomparably good, and so you pay on average no more than 7€ for one hour of full-body massage - an opportunity not to be missed.

What to do: for foodies

Sekar Sari Kitchen

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The Warung is owned by a family and the food is fantastic. You can watch everything being freshly prepared. We can recommend the tuna with coconut sauce and mashed potatoes and the tuna curry. We ordered both twice in one evening because we couldn't get enough. (Since everything is made super fresh, the cooking can take its time. Be pationed, it´s worth it!)

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In Da Compound Warung

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This warung offers incredibly delicious Balinese dishes. I can especially recommend the "Kwetiau Goreng" noodles. If it's your first time in Bali and you want to get an insight into the different dishes, you can also order nasi campur here - a plate that serves a little bit of everything.

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Resto Suka Sehat

@amelieclemens

In this warung you can enjoy western and balinese cuisine. We always shared wraps, and then ate one balinese dish per person. I would recommend the "Cashew Chicken" or "Cashew Tofu". I ate it again and again and never regretted it.

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Warung Siam

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Half Thai, half Indonesian, Warung Siam is one of the warungs in Ubud that is always packed at dinner time. For good reason - we tried the shrimp glass noodle salad there - and Nico said it was the best he's ever eaten. But meat eaters and vegetarians also have a good selection here.

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Layana Warung

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Layana Warung is known for its beautiful views. It is located about 10 minutes from the center of Ubud, and is characterized by its impressive location. You have a great view of a valley with a small waterfall. We only took drinks there, but the food on offer also looked very appealing.

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PUKAKO by Paddyfield

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If you have a scooter, we would recommend Pukako Restaurant, which is located in the middle of rice fields. Accordingly, the sunset at dinner there is breathtaking. And because there is no official road, but only a narrow path for scooters and bicycles, there is a quiet and relaxed atmosphere. In addition to super delicious paninis, we liked to eat the chicken parmigiana.

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Toro Sushi Ubud

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Toro Sushi will always be the best sushi restaurant in the world for us. The uniquely delicious and high-quality sushi combinations simply have to be tried once. During our time in Bali I think we were there at least 4 times because we just fell in love. And the value for money is really phenomenal for sushi

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Bella Pizza Ubud

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We found Bella Pizza by chance - lucky us! Since then, it has become one of our favorite restaurants in Bali. Especially the chicken barbecue pizza should not be missed. Located next to rainforest and ricefields only 10 min away from Ubud, it`s the perfect spot for a relaxed and delicious dinner. TIP: the mango passionfruit smoothie is easy to fall in love with. We've always shared one because it's quite voluptuous.

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Nostimo Greek Grill Ubud

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If you are really hungry and want to eat until you are full, then the Greek "Nostimo" is just right for you. The versatility and size of the dishes really won us over.

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Top 3 Cafes

Kopi Pangeran Ubud

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This café is a real insider tip! We found it by pure chance and curiosity. The entrance is already special: a hole in a wall. We loved working there with a Nutella Crossaint, "Pangeran Charles" and Caramel Latte in the adjoining room, which has power outlets.

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Daily Baguette Ubud

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A real insider tip if you want a western breakfast again after all the mie or nasi goreng. When we first came to Ubud, we liked to get a baguette for breakfast. The banana bread and the paninis/bagles, which you can put together yourself, are also particularly delicious.

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Keliki Coffee

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As you might have guessed by now, we also found this café while passing through. We would count it as one of the cafes with the most spectacular location and view - surrounded by pure jungle you can take a little break there in peace and quiet. And because Keliki Coffee consists only of a platform, you are not separated from the outside by a window pane, but right in the middle of it.

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Supermarkets

Gelato Secrets

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For a little refreshment in between, the ice cream here is a perfect snack - the ice cream varieties are without added sugar and some are also vegan. For everyone else who doesn't depend on it: the ice cream is at least as delicious as "normal" ice cream.

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Since you should not drink the water out of the faucet, here are some supermarkets. Or for whatever you need :)!

Delta Dewata Supermarket

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Dewata is a large supermarket where you can find everything you could need.

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Pepito Market Andong

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Pepito is the most western supermarket chain in Bali. You can find everything you need here, too. Remember: it´s more expensive then the local shops.

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Guardian Pharmacy

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If you need cosmetics, Guardians Pharmacy is the best choise from all the drugstores you can find in Bali. (Supermarkt chain as well).

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Indomarket, Mini Maret and Circle K are the local supermarket chains you can find in Indonesia - and also the cheapest ones. We would recommend you to check them out as well for water and local snacks. But you will find lots of them everywhere. 

Here are some of our favourite snacks we would recommend to you: 

-Jungle Juice: Mango, Pineapple, Lemon (mix it with water)

- Silverqueen Crunchy Cream 

- Dragon Fruit - trust us on this one, it´s so much better then in the US/Europe

- Dark Chocolate - Matcha - Magnum - not to sweet and really refreshing 

-Teran Bulan - traditional pancake; our tip: top it with chocolate and Banana (you can find it from 5pm on)

Thank you so much for choosing our travel guide! We really hope you had a good time reading it and found some helpful information for your Bali trip. Have a great time and enjoy every second. 

Best wishes, 

Amelie and Nico :)