Ah, Ubud—Bali’s serene cultural hub, where lush rice terraces meet vibrant art scenes and the aroma of fresh coconuts wafts through the air. If you’re anything like me, you want to experience the magic of Ubud without breaking the bank. In this article, I’ll share some personal anecdotes, practical advice, and unique insights on how to get around Ubud on a budget while still soaking in all that this enchanting town has to offer.
Embrace the Art of Walking
One of my favorite ways to explore Ubud is simply by walking. The town has a delightful mix of narrow paths, charming streets, and hidden paths that lead to breathtaking rice fields. On my first day, I threw on my comfortable sandals and set out to explore. I stumbled upon the beautiful Campuhan Ridge Walk—a free, scenic trail that offers stunning panoramic views over the rice paddies.
Tip: Bring a bottle of water and some snacks, and set aside a couple of hours to soak in the beauty. You might find yourself running into some friendly local farmers or fellow travelers along the way!
Rent a Scooter
For those who are a bit more adventurous, renting a scooter is one of the most affordable and convenient ways to get around Ubud. I remember when I first arrived, I hesitated to hop on one, thinking it would be too complicated. However, after chatting with a few fellow travelers and seeing how easy it was, I took the plunge.
You can rent a scooter for about 50,000 to 70,000 IDR ($3.50 to $5) per day. Just make sure to wear a helmet (safety first!), and if you’re not an experienced rider, plan your route carefully. You might find hidden gems like the Tegalalang Rice Terraces or beautiful waterfalls that are a little farther out from the main tourist areas!
Practical Advice: Download Google Maps beforehand, and don’t hesitate to ask locals for directions. The Balinese people are incredibly friendly and helpful!
Use Ride-Hailing Apps
In Ubud, you’ll find that ride-hailing apps like Grab and Gojek are not only budget-friendly but super convenient. The first time I used Grab, I was amazed at how cheap a ride was—typically between 20,000 IDR to 30,000 IDR ($1.50 to $2.00) for shorter distances.
I used Grab to head to the Sacred Monkey Forest, and it was a breeze. Also, if you want to avoid the hassle of negotiating with local drivers, these apps are a great alternative.
Pro Tip: Be mindful of local regulations; sometimes Grab drivers may have to pick you up a little further from popular spots, so stay alert for any pickup points!
Join Group Tours or Walks
If you’re looking to dig deeper into the local culture, consider joining a group tour or guided walk. On my second day, I joined a walking tour through Ubud’s art district for about 100,000 IDR ($7). Not only did I get a deeper understanding of the local traditions and crafts—like batik and silver jewelry making—but I also made some great friends along the way.
Relatable Scenario: Picture yourself standing in front of a unique piece of art and suddenly realizing the story behind it because your guide just shared a fascinating tidbit about the artist. Group tours can offer those serendipitous moments!
Utilize Local Bemos
Bemos are local mini-vans that serve as public transport and can take you to various destinations around Ubud and beyond. I hopped on a bemo one sunny afternoon for just 10,000 IDR (about $0.70) to visit the historic town of Tampaksiring.
It was a charming experience, as the bemo was filled with locals, and I enjoyed engaging in lively conversations, receiving plenty of smiles and waves along the way.
Advice: Make sure to ask where the bemos go and confirm the fare before hopping on. A little patience goes a long way, but the experiences are often worth it!
Download Offline Guide Apps
To navigate Ubud on a budget, I can’t emphasize enough the importance of offline guide apps. My favorite is Maps.me, which allows you to download maps of Ubud and browse without using any data. This came in handy when I lost my way after indulging in a lovely lunch at a local warung.
With my downloaded map, I found my way back with ease, all while discovering quaint shops and additional scenic spots I wouldn’t have noticed otherwise.
Conclusion
Getting around Ubud on a budget is completely doable and often leads to some of the best experiences, memories, and stories. Whether you choose to stroll through lush landscapes, rent a scooter for some adventure, or hop on a bemo for a local experience, Ubud has something for everyone—without breaking the bank. So pack your bags, lace up your walking shoes, and get ready to make the most of your next adventure in this beautiful Balinese paradise! Happy exploring!
