Ubud: the cultural and spiritual heart of Bali
Ubud is often considered the soul of Bali. Surrounded by lush green rice fields, lush forests, and ancient temples, this town is renowned for its artistic and spiritual atmosphere. It's the perfect place if you're looking for an immersive experience in Balinese culture while enjoying a peaceful and inspiring setting. But is it the right choice for a student? Here are the pros and cons to help you decide.
The advantages of living in Ubud
A soothing natural setting
Ubud is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, such as the Tegalalang Rice Terraces and the Monkey Forest. Perfect for unwinding after a day of training.A cultural immersion
If you want to learn more about Balinese culture, this is the perfect place. From traditional dances to religious ceremonies, Ubud is a hotbed of art and traditions.Healthy living
Ubud is full of vegetarian, vegan, and organic cafes and restaurants, such as Sage, Alchemy, and Zest. It is also a hub for yoga enthusiasts, with studios such as The Yoga Barn and Radiantly Alive.A pleasant climate
Located inland, Ubud is slightly cooler than coastal areas such as Kuta or Canggu, which is pleasant for working and relaxing.Affordable accommodations
Ubud offers accommodation options for all budgets, from hostels to private villas. You can often find quiet guesthouses at reasonable prices.A different kind of social network
Ubud attracts an international community of digital nomads, artists, and wellness enthusiasts. If you want to expand your circle with inspiring people, this is the perfect place.
The disadvantages of living in Ubud
Distance from beaches
Ubud is inland, which means it will take you at least 1-1.5 hours by scooter to reach Bali's beaches. If surfing or coastal life is important to you, Ubud may seem too far away.Limited nightlife
Unlike Canggu or Kuta, Ubud's nightlifeis much quieter. A few bars such as CP Lounge and Laughing Buddha Bar offer evening entertainment, but it is not a destination for partying.Tourists during peak season
Ubud attracts many tourists, which can make certain places crowded, such as the Monkey Forest or the art market. This can detract from the peaceful experience of the neighborhood.Limited transportation
The roads in Ubud are often narrow and congested. Traveling by scooter can be long and tiring if you have to travel regularly to Denpasar or Canggu for your internship.A highly spiritual environment
If you are not interested in yoga, meditation, or wellness activities, Ubud may seem a little too focused on this lifestyle for you.
To sum up: Who is Ubud for?
If you want to:
✅ Live in a peaceful environment, close to nature.
✅ Discover Balinese culture and immerse yourself in a spiritual setting.
✅ Adopt a healthy lifestyle and connect with inspiring people.
Then Ubud is perfect for you. On the other hand, if you want to party regularly or be close to the beaches, you might feel a little isolated.
Distances to help you get your bearings:
Canggu (Batu Bolong): 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes by scooter (depending on traffic).
Seminyak: 1.5 hours by scooter.
Kuta: 1.5 hours by scooter.
Denpasar Airport: 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes by scooter.
In short, Ubud is an ideal destination for students looking for a unique experience, far from the tourist hustle and bustle, while immersing themselves in the cultural and spiritual richness of Bali. 🌿
