Lofalitsidwa: 09.11.2016
I arrived in Ubud on Monday. Sonny was so kind and even drove Mareike and me here. I found my accommodation directly. It is located centrally in a small side street of the main road, so it is still relatively quiet there.
After I settled into my room, Mareike and I went straight to the Monkey Forest. An absolute highlight of Ubud. The little and bigger monkeys jump right around you and want to be fed. Some are even quite cheeky and try to open your backpack, there might be bananas in there.
I also approached two little monkeys and they climbed directly onto my shoulders. There are also photos of these approaches, but unfortunately, I look too stupid on them to post them on the internet.
It was definitely a great experience to get so close to the monkeys. However, you should always be careful and never look the monkeys directly in the eyes, as this will make them aggressive.
The next day, I went to the market. That was also an experience. So many people in such a small space and everyone wants to sell you something. I gave in twice and bought a few souvenirs. It's quite exhausting to walk around the market when every vendor approaches you. Nevertheless, it was a nice experience and I can only recommend it.
After visiting the market, I explored my neighborhood a bit to take some photos.
On that day, we also went to the famous rice terraces. The view was gigantic. However, it was easier to get there by taxi than to get back. We walked back first in the hope of finding a Blue Bird Taxi. Well, that was nothing. We were then picked up by a taxi driver who drove us back for a reasonable price. You pay about 5 euros for a 20-minute ride here.
Today was my last day in Ubud and I have to say, the city didn't convince me. It is undoubtedly a beautiful place, but I wouldn't be able to stay here much longer. Everything is just so loud and crowded, and I also miss the sea. If I had more money and a bigger suitcase, it would look different again. At every corner, I have the urge to buy something.
Tomorrow my journey continues to Lovina. It is located in the north of the island and is supposed to be much quieter. With a bus shuttle, you can get there for about 8 euros. The journey takes about 4 hours because this bus stops in almost every village. I'm curious how comfortable a bus here is, I'm assuming the worst case scenario :D
Nicky