First Impressions of Bali
Discovering Bali began as I stepped off a smooth five-hour flight from Hanoi into Denpasar’s modern and efficient airport. Quick bureaucratic processes made the arrival seamless, and the atmosphere immediately felt like a prelude to the island’s unique charm.
My journey started with a weeklong training in human pedagogy called Mzianeti, held at the Keramas Komune Resort. Mzianeti, meaning “Sun City,” is deeply connected to the principles of humane pedagogy pioneered by Shalva Amonashvili and led by Paata Amonashvili. This program, focusing on fostering happiness and holistic growth through compassionate, student-centered educational approaches, was a profound and transformative experience.
During my stay at the Mzianeti training at the Keramas Komune Resort, I had the chance to explore two distinct natural wonders. First, I visited the breathtaking Mount Batur Caldera, known for its panoramic views of rugged volcanic landscapes and lush surroundings. This stunning location offered a sense of awe and connection to the island’s dynamic geography.
Later, I unwound at the nearby Batur Natural Hot Springs, where warm geothermal pools, naturally heated by volcanic activity, provided a relaxing escape. Nestled on the edge of Lake Batur, the serene atmosphere and scenic backdrop made the experience truly unforgettable.
After the training, I transitioned into another chapter of discovering Bali, immersing myself in Ubud’s vibrant culture, spiritual traditions, and breathtaking natural beauty.
Understanding Balinese Names and Culture
In Bali, names carry deep cultural significance and follow a unique system that reflects the island’s rich traditions. The first name of a Balinese person typically indicates their birth order:
- Wayan, Gede, or Putu for the firstborn
- Made or Kadek for the second child
- Nyoman or Komang for the third
- Ketut for the fourth
If a family has more than four children, the cycle begins again with Wayan. These names are used regardless of gender, with “I” (pronounced ‘ee’) often preceding male names and “Ni” preceding female names. Many Balinese also receive additional given names that may reflect qualities, aspirations, or Hindu deities.
A Glimpse into Ubud
Ubud became my home base, and it’s hard to overstate the charm of this spiritual heart of Bali. Every corner seemed to resonate with creativity and tranquility. Staying first at an authentic Balinese Santana homestay, I began my days with tropical fruit breakfasts delivered to my balcony. Even the unpredictable rain felt like an invitation to slow down and savor life.
Discovering Bali: Puri Lukisan Museum
One morning, I explored the Puri Lukisan Museum, which celebrates Balinese art and history. Ubud is a hub for Indonesia’s artistic soul, where every resident seems to be either a painter or a priest. The museum showcased a mix of Hindu influences and traditional Balinese artistry, alongside the story of Ubud’s transformation under a visionary king who opened its doors to the world.
Serendipity in Bali: Unplanned Encounters and Artistic Inspirations
The Blanco Renaissance Museum
Another gem of Ubud’s artistic landscape is The Blanco Renaissance Museum, perched on a hilltop with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. This vibrant museum celebrates the life and works of Don Antonio Blanco, whose surreal and romantic paintings embody Bali’s spirit. Visiting this museum offered a deeper connection to the island’s artistic heritage, enriching my time in Ubud.
Nestled on a hilltop in Ubud, The Blanco Renaissance Museum is a homage to the life and works of Don Antonio Blanco, a Spanish-born painter who made Bali his home. Known as the “Dali of Bali,” Blanco’s art is a mesmerizing blend of surrealism, romanticism, and Balinese culture.
The museum is an artwork—its lush gardens, grand entrance gates, and elaborate architecture reflect Blanco’s flamboyant personality. The museum houses an extensive collection of his paintings, sketches, and poetry, many of which celebrate the feminine form and Bali’s rich cultural heritage.
Visiting this museum made me understand how the life of an artist could be happy, harmonious, and successful—a rare and inspiring glimpse into a life beautifully lived
Another day, I joined an inspiring women’s gathering led by Ekaterina Petersil, a renowned Russian blogger. Though I stumbled upon the event by chance, I found the exchange of experiences enlightening. To my surprise, I won a personalized music composition—a token of Bali’s serendipitous nature.
The Magic of Ubud’s Temples and Markets
Bali, the only Hindu-majority region in Indonesia, intertwines spirituality with daily life. Almost every home features a temple, and mornings begin with offerings to the gods.
Monkey Forest
One of the highlights of my time in Ubud was visiting the Sacred Monkey Forest, a national park with a history dating back to the 11th century when it served as a royal hunting ground. Today, it is a beautifully maintained sanctuary home to countless monkeys and other animals. The environment is clean and well-organized, with staff stationed throughout the park to ensure safety.
Visitors are advised to follow the rules displayed at the entrance to enjoy the experience without disruptions.
Observing the monkeys freely roaming in this sacred space added a unique dimension to my understanding of Bali’s connection with its environment.The forest also houses a temple exclusively for the monkeys, a cremation site, and a cemetery, making it a place where nature and spirituality coexist harmoniously.
The market in Ubud, however, was a mixed experience. While vibrant and bustling, it didn’t capture my heart as much as the quieter moments of discovery, like finding a painting on the Campuhan Ridge Walk or just walking across Ubud.
Gedong Homestay: A Gateway to Authentic Balinese Living
Sometimes the most meaningful experiences come from unexpected turns in our journey. When I learned my previous accommodation couldn’t extend my stay after returning from Tegalallang, what initially seemed an inconvenience led to authentic and enriching experiences. Walking along Sugriwa Street in Ubud, my attention was drawn to a beautiful traditional building that stood out for its architectural elegance and thoughtful design – Gedong Bali Homestay.
The moment I stepped inside, I was struck by the careful balance of traditional Balinese elements with modern comfort. I met Mr. Mangku, the owner and a respected local priest, whose warm welcome immediately made me feel at home. What started as a tentative three-day booking soon extended into a week-long stay, as I was embraced by the genuine hospitality of Mr. Mangku and his gracious wife, Mrs. Gedong.
Mrs. Gedong, in particular, became the heart and soul of my stay. Each morning, she would appear with a bright smile and a freshly prepared traditional breakfast.
The homestay’s location proved perfect, offering easy access to Ubud’s attractions while maintaining a peaceful distance from the tourist bustle. But it wasn’t just the convenient location or the beautiful architecture that made my stay special – it was the feeling of being welcomed into a Balinese family’s life.
My timing proved especially fortuitous, as my stay coincided with a rare and significant temple ceremony that occurs only once every 210 days. This extraordinary experience, which I’ll detail more extensively later, offered a profound glimpse into the spiritual heart of Balinese culture. The fact that I could participate in this sacred event, guided by Mr. Mangku and his wife, transformed what could have been a simple homestay into a cultural immersion.
Discovering Bali beyond Ubud
For visitors seeking to explore more of Bali beyond Ubud, there are countless opportunities to immerse yourself in the island’s diversity:
- Tanah Lot Temple: Perched on a rocky outcrop in the ocean, this iconic temple is one of Bali’s most photographed spots, especially at sunset.
- Mount Batur Sunrise Trek: An adventurous hike up an active volcano offers breathtaking views at sunrise, rewarding early risers with unforgettable scenery.
- Tirta Empul Temple: A popular purification site where visitors can take part in holy water rituals, believed to cleanse the body and soul.
- Besakih Temple: Known as the “Mother Temple” of Bali, this sprawling complex on the slopes of Mount Agung is the holiest and largest temple on the island. Its dramatic location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit.
- Nusa Penida Island: A short boat ride away, this island is famous for its dramatic cliffs, pristine beaches like Kelingking Beach, and vibrant underwater world perfect for snorkeling and diving.
- Seminyak’s Beach Clubs: For those looking to enjoy a mix of luxury and nightlife, Seminyak offers trendy beach clubs like Potato Head and Ku De Ta with ocean views and stylish settings.
- Jatiluwih Rice Terraces: Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, these expansive terraces are less crowded than Tegallalang and provide an authentic glimpse into Bali’s agricultural heritage.
- Art Villages: Just outside Ubud, villages like Celuk (silver jewelry), Mas (wood carving), and Batubulan (stone carving) showcase traditional craftsmanship. Visitors can observe artisans at work or purchase unique handmade souvenirs.
- Batik Workshops: Experience the intricate process of creating Batik, a traditional Indonesian fabric art. Many workshops across Bali, particularly in Ubud and surrounding villages, offer classes where you can design your own piece.
- Ahmed: This laid-back coastal village is a diver’s paradise, offering crystal-clear waters, coral reefs, and shipwrecks to explore. Its tranquil vibe also makes it a great spot to relax and soak up Bali’s natural beauty.
- Waterfalls in Northern Bali: Sekumpul and Gitgit waterfalls are worth the trip for their serene beauty and refreshing escape into nature.
While my focus was on Ubud’s tranquil atmosphere and its spiritual offerings, these recommendations highlight Bali’s rich variety, catering to adventurers, spiritual seekers, and those seeking cultural immersion.
Stay tuned for my further materials about Ubud.