Ubud: The Cultural Heart of Bali

• HelloHalo
  [ha-loh]
• GoodbyeSelamat tinggal
  [se-la-mat ting-gal]
• YesYa
  [yah]
• NoTidak
  [tee-dak]
• Please/You're welcomeSilakan
  [see-la-kan]
• Thank youTerima kasih
  [te-ree-ma ka-see]
• Excuse me/SorryMaaf
  [mah-af]
• How are you?Apa kabar?
  [ah-pah ka-bar]
• Fine. And you?Baik. Dan kamu?
  [bah-ik. dan ka-moo]
• Do you speak English?Bisa berbicara bahasa Inggris?
  [bee-sa ber-bee-cha-ra ba-ha-sa ing-gris]
• I don't understandSaya tidak mengerti
  [sa-ya tee-dak men-ger-tee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseSaya ingin melihat menu, tolong
  [sa-ya in-gin me-li-hat me-nu, toh-long]
• I don't eat meatSaya tidak makan daging
  [sa-ya tee-dak ma-kan da-ying]
• Cheers!Selamat minum!
  [se-la-mat mi-num]
• I would like to pay, pleaseSaya ingin membayar, tolong
  [sa-ya in-gin mem-ba-yar, toh-long]

• Help!Tolong!
  [toh-long]
• Go away!Pergi!
  [per-gee]
• Call the Police!Panggil polisi!
  [pang-gil po-lee-see]
• Call a doctor!Panggil dokter!
  [pang-gil dok-ter]
• I'm lostSaya tersesat
  [sa-ya ter-se-sat]
• I'm illSaya sakit
  [sa-ya sa-kit]

• I'd like to buy...Saya ingin membeli...
  [sa-ya in-gin mem-be-lee]
• I'm just lookingSaya hanya melihat
  [sa-ya han-ya me-li-hat]
• How much is it?Berapa harganya?
  [be-ra-pa har-gan-ya]
• That's too expensiveItu terlalu mahal
  [ee-too ter-la-lu ma-hal]
• Can you lower the price?Bisa kurangi harganya?
  [bee-sa kur-an-gee har-gan-ya]

• What time is it?Jam berapa sekarang?
  [jam be-ra-pa se-ka-rang]
• It's one o'clockJam satu
  [jam sa-too]
• Half past (10)Setengah (sepuluh)
  [se-ten-gah (se-poo-loo)]
• MorningPagi
  [pa-gi]
• AfternoonSore
  [so-re]
• EveningMalam
  [ma-lam]
• YesterdayKemarin
  [ke-ma-rin]
• TodayHari ini
  [ha-ree ee-nee]
• TomorrowBesok
  [be-sok]
• 1Satu
  [sa-too]
• 2Dua
  [doo-ah]
• 3Tiga
  [tee-ga]
• 4Empat
  [em-pat]
• 5Lima
  [lee-ma]
• 6Enam
  [e-nam]
• 7Tujuh
  [too-joo]
• 8Delapan
  [de-la-pan]
• 9Sembilan
  [sem-bee-lan]
• 10Sepuluh
  [se-poo-loo]

• Where's a/the...?Dimana ada/ada...
  [dee-ma-na a-da/a-da]
• What's the address?Alamatnya apa?
  [a-lam-at-nya a-pah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Bisa tunjukkan ke saya (di peta)?
  [bee-sa toon-jook-kan ke sa-ya (dee pe-ta)]
• When's the next (bus)?Kapan yang berikutnya (bis)?
  [ka-pan yang be-roo-too-nya (bees)]
• A ticket (to ....)Tiket (ke ....)
  [tee-ket (ke)]

Ubud's history can be traced back to the 8th century when it was established as a center for spiritual and artistic activities. The name 'Ubud' is derived from the Balinese word 'ubad,' which means medicine, reflecting the area's early use of medicinal plants found in the surrounding jungles. It was the arrival of Hinduism and Buddhism that shaped Ubud's spiritual landscape, leading to the establishment of numerous temples and sacred sites.

During the Majapahit Empire (13th to 16th centuries), Ubud flourished as a significant cultural and religious center. The empire, known for its art, literature, and architecture, influenced Ubud’s development, fostering a rich artistic tradition that continues to thrive. The Majapahit period saw the construction of temples and the introduction of classical Balinese dance and music.

In the 19th century, Ubud became a focal point for Western artists and writers who were drawn to its unique culture and landscape. The establishment of the Ubud Royal Palace by the Sukawati royal family in the early 1900s further enhanced the prominence of Ubud as a cultural center. This period marked a renaissance in Balinese arts, especially in painting and dance, as local traditions were blended with Western influences.

The mid-20th century saw Ubud transition into a tourist destination, attracting visitors seeking an authentic Balinese experience. The establishment of art galleries, yoga retreats, and wellness centers contributed to Ubud's reputation as a sanctuary for those seeking spiritual and artistic rejuvenation. This influx of tourists has greatly impacted the local economy and culture, leading to both preservation and commercialization of Balinese traditions.

Today, Ubud stands as a testament to the balancing act between maintaining its rich cultural heritage and accommodating modern tourism. The area is home to numerous art markets, workshops, and cultural events, such as the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival, which celebrate both local and international talent. Despite the challenges posed by globalization, Ubud remains committed to preserving its identity, with ongoing efforts to promote sustainable tourism and cultural education.

Ubud is located approximately 35 kilometers northeast of Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) in Bali. The most common way to reach Ubud is by taxi or ride-sharing services, which take around 1 to 1.5 hours depending on traffic. Alternatively, you can use a shuttle service that connects various neighborhoods in Bali, including Kuta, Seminyak, and Canggu, to Ubud. For those already in Bali, local buses (such as Perama) offer budget-friendly options, with departures from major tourist areas.

Ubud is best explored on foot, especially in the town center where many attractions, cafes, and shops are within walking distance. For longer distances, you can rent a bicycle or a scooter, both of which are widely available for hire. Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Gojek and Grab are also convenient for getting around. Local bemos (small minibuses) serve as a cheap alternative for travel to nearby villages, although they may not be the most comfortable option.

Ubud is generally a safe area for tourists, but it's wise to exercise caution, particularly in crowded places. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing, can occur, especially in busy markets or during festivals. Areas around the Monkey Forest may have a higher incidence of theft, so keep your belongings secure and avoid feeding the monkeys. It’s advisable to stay alert, especially at night, and to avoid poorly lit streets.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for local emergency services. The nearest hospital is RSUP Sanglah, located in Denpasar, which provides comprehensive medical care. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available throughout Ubud for over-the-counter medications. Always keep a list of emergency contacts handy.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting temples—wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Don’t wear beachwear away from the beach. Religion: Do respect local customs; remove shoes before entering homes and temples. Don’t take photos in sacred areas without permission. Public Transport: Do be polite and respectful to fellow passengers. Don’t engage in loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly smile and 'Selamat Pagi' (Good Morning). Don’t shake hands with the opposite gender unless initiated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and enjoy communal meals. Don’t drink tap water; always opt for bottled or filtered water.

To experience Ubud like a local, participate in a yoga class or a cooking workshop, as Ubud is known for its wellness culture. Visit the traditional market early in the morning for fresh produce and local crafts. Engage with local artisans and learn about their crafts at places like the Ubud Art Market. For a unique experience, take a walk through the rice paddies in Tegallalang or Campuhan Ridge Walk, and enjoy the scenic beauty and tranquility away from the crowds.

When in Ubud, it is essential to respect the local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or their property. When attending ceremonies, dress appropriately and abide by the local customs. It is customary to give offerings at temples, so consider participating in this practice to show respect for the local culture.