Talking to Bali visitors I hear many of the same complaints ( aggressive beach vendors, trash everywhere), some glowing acounts of personal interactions (‘the people are so warm and kind’) and once in a while some tips.
Travelpod has an article written by an Irish traveler, who was brave enough to drive in Bali. After reading about his experiences here, I’ll make some comments.
•He hired a car and drove for 30 minutes the wrong way out of Kuta. When you start out here, stick to big roads, which are clearly marked at intersections and roundabouts. Don’t be afraid to drive slow if you need to, or to stop and ask directions, even if the only thing you can say is “Ubud?” Off of the major roads, sign posts are less frequent and in the villages, almost non-existant. Maps will point to a through-road, whereas in reality it will be an unmarked T-junction. Don’t stress it, just take your time and enjoy the new sight and sounds.
•Ubud appeared to be closed after dark. During the day Ubud is swamped with tour buses from Kuta, Sanur, Nusa Dua. They all unload along Jl. Raya Ubud, giving their passengers enough time to buy nick-nacks, visit Monkey Forest and be home for dinner. Ubud has no real nightlife, which part of its charm. There is a new nightspot in Sanggingan, but that’s not downtown. My advice for people staying in Ubud, is enjoy a wonderful dinner, in any one of Ubud’s great restaurants, then go for a cruise, either by car or motorbike, through the surrounding villages. Its so peaceful and the landscape offer many cool twist and turns.
•Direction: If you are in south Bali and are heading uphill for more than 5 minutes, you are going north. I am directionally challenged, but can do okay. When I get the sense that the hill is sloping the ‘wrong way’, its time to ask a local.
•Dealing with touts on motorbikes: They can’t get me to buy when I’m standing in front of them, so they will not have any better luck at 40 kmh. Try to ignore them, show no interest and say “Tidak mau” (don’t want) when they press you. Don’t look at their goods, or get frustrated, just move away.
•Monkey Forest: Worth a visit, as Ubud’s version has a lovely temple and many cool stone carvings. Make sure you remove any loose items, including hats, sunglasses and handbags.
•Scuba Diving: The dive outfits are in Amed and other places, with many offices in Kuta, and Sanur. Its actually cheaper if you go out there and negotiate on the spot, rather than pre-booking.
