Photo Journal of Ubud, Bali, Indonesia

Ryan and I, together, have been to some pretty iconic places throughout the world - places that we never imagined (but hoped, of course!) we'd see one day. And although we've found these places to be very special and even life altering - there are only a few that stand out as experiences that have been soul changing. These are the exceptional places that one comes across only a handful of times in a lifetime. Something inside you clicks when you're there - it's an indescribable feeling - but you know that there is no other place on earth you'd rather be at that very moment. Bali, and Ubud in particular, is one of those very special places for us - and we hold it very near and dear to our hearts.



Surrounded by vivid green rice terraces and lush forests, Ubud is nestled in southern central Bali. The scenery is so picturesque that photos really don't do it justice! And, although it's a growing tourist destination, it still holds that charm people fall in love with.

Early in the mornings, you'll find the Balinese zipping around on scooters or in front of shops with little palm boxes that are filled with offerings (or "ceremonies" as our friend Agung called them). That's something that is very Bali. In a world where it seems like religion is constantly being politicized, to the Balinese it seems more personal and ritualistic which was really really nice to see and experience.

Another thing you can't help but notice about Ubud, a Bali as a whole, is the unbelievable architecture and art. From temples to an average compound's wall and gate, the architecture seems to find a happy medium between simple and ornate. However, Hindu inspired statues and art that you find all over the island, as well as Balinese textile, are all very elaborate and detailed.

***

Hope ya'll enjoy some photos from one of our favorite places in the world!:

A community getting together to harvest the rice:

A Balinese gate - absolutely beautiful!

Gorgeous door:

 Examples of the "ceremonies" or offerings found all over the streets in Bali:

 This shop was right outside the entrance to our hotel, Champlung Sari Hotel, as well as the Ubud Monkey Forest. This monkey was chased away several times:

As Ryan and I were waiting for our food at Three Monkeys, we looked over and saw a man performing what we imagine is the daily ritual. For almost 5 minutes he made several offerings of ceremonies:

The beautiful rice paddy in the middle of the city's block:

Where are your "special" places?



Check out our other posts on the beautiful Bali!:
Travel Photo Wednesday - Balinese Spices
Video: Mass Monkey Exodus from Ubud Monkey Forest
Review: Ubud Monkey Forest in Ubud, Bali
Travel Photo Wednesday - Bali, Indonesia
Top 5 (Must Try) Places to Eat in Bali
Review: Bali Moon Cycling Tour in Bali, Indonesia