I Gede Paskara Karilo,
Corporate General Manager of Wapa di Ume Resorts
» WHERE TO EAT Hit the street to discover the flavoursome Balinese cuisine. Babi Guling Ibu Oka is a favourite as well as Babi Guling Gung Cung. Go early to secure the suckling pig’s best part: the crispy skin. Do not miss Mr Wayan Balinese Cuisine at Wapa di Ume Ubud for its authentic and modern take on Balinese cuisine.
For a nice dinner experience, head to the historic Ibu Rai Restaurant. Starting from a humble warung in the 60s, it is now one of the best places to enjoy Indonesian and international fusion fare.
» WHERE TO DRINK Bridges Restaurant is a must. They have the Divine Wine and Cocktail Bar with a river view, a solid wine selection and interesting cocktails. It is a good place to unwind with Negroni Martini or Ciroc Lychee Saketini. Another favourite is The Night Rooster Cocktail Bar by Locavore. Located on top of a Chinese restaurant, chill out on the veranda to people watch while enjoying the creative signature cocktails made with local ingredients and liquors.
» WHERE TO STAY Ubud has a wide variety of accommodation, from traditional home-stays to five-star resorts. Set within a family compound, stay at Gunung Merta Bungalows to experience and interact with the Balinese family and participate in their daily activities. To get the most of a magnificent landscape by the river, stay at The Royal Pita Maha’s villa for a lavish royal pampering that one needs to experience at least once in their lifetime.
» WHAT TO DO Ubud is the centre of art and cultural activities in Bali. A visit to the Ubud Palace and their daily dance performances is must. Check out the Ubud Market across the palace for local artworks and handicrafts. Some of the best art museums in Indonesia can be found in Ubud. Take some time to enjoy outstanding collections at Museum Puri Lukisan, Neka Art Museum and Agung Rai Museum of Art (ARMA). Also, trekking Campuhan Ridge with its fantastic scenery is a must.