Located inland and in the hills of southern Bali Ubud is the islands cultural centre. A plethora of reasonably priced guesthouses and hotels, combined with rice terraces and the thriving arts scene has made Ubud one of the most talked about spots on the island.

Whilst the town has grown it retains a wonderful atmosphere, friendly and welcoming and easy to immerse yourself in Balinese life its surrounding countryside is also great for exploring on foot. This is the place to come to to see a kecak or other traditional dance, browse art galleries or just chill out.

Visit the Neka Museum, just outside Ubud, and the Puri Lukisan in Ubud's town centre, to get a sense of local art styles, then enjoy some great food at one of many world-class restaurants.

Other activities include a walk through the Monkey Forest close to the village of Nyuhkuning, and riding bikes past iridescent paddy fields to outlying villages.