Indonesia · Bali
Ubud, Canggu or Uluwatu? What I found in each, plus a surf lesson I skipped
After the north I returned to the south to see the places everyone talks about. Each one felt different, and I learned a few lessons the hard way.
Ubud: nature, rice fields and monkeys
Ubud is known for rice fields, yoga and cafes. I rented a villa, sometimes shared with lizards and maybe a snake, played football with local kids and drank raw cacao in a coffee shop. In the Monkey Forest the macaques are quick thieves. I was warned not to carry food and did it anyway. A monkey grabbed my pocket for a banana, and I do not recommend my reaction. Leave food in your hotel, do not threaten the monkeys and keep sunglasses in a bag.
Canggu: surf and nightlife
Canggu is the party and surf area. I rented a bamboo house and spent my days in the waves. It was my first time surfing, and I did not take a lesson, so I learned by being crushed. Take a lesson. It saves energy and avoids damage.
The broken board
On my last day I rented a board and surfed for three hours. A big wave wiped me out near the coast. Later in the shower someone told me my board was broken. A large piece was missing. I paid 70 dollars. Check the board with the shop before you start and inspect it when you return.
Uluwatu: too touristy for me
I checked out Uluwatu, known for cliffs and surf. It felt too touristy to me, so I returned to Canggu. I did find an interesting plant that produces one of the lightest natural fibres in the world.
Airport weight
At the airport I had a heavy 15 kg backpack and tried to pass it as a carry-on. Airlines weigh bags, and fines are high. Weigh yourself before you go and pack lighter.
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Ubud or Canggu?
Ubud suits nature, rice fields and yoga. Canggu suits surfing, cafes and nightlife.
Are the Monkey Forest monkeys dangerous?
They can steal food and small items. Leave food behind and do not threaten them.
Should I take a surf lesson in Bali?
Yes. I surfed without a lesson and learned the hard way, including a broken rental board.