According to forum posts, Pertiwi Bisma 1 and Komaneka Bisma are recommended for their proximity to central Ubud and amenities like infinity pools, with prices around $80 AUD per night at Pertiwi Bisma 1. Nefatari Exclusive Villas are also favored for their privacy, individual pools, and reasonable pricing, though they are slightly away from the town's hustle.

Travelers have called out Bucu View for its jungle views and affordability, though breakfast quality may vary. Wenara Bali Bungalows are praised for their central location and forest views, providing a convenient base for exploring Ubud.

Posts suggest ensuring the exact location of the property, as some may misleadingly claim to be in Ubud while being significantly distant. Properties like those on Jalan Bisma are highlighted for their value and location, offering easy access to Ubud's central attractions.

According to forum posts, Jalan Gootama offers a variety of cheap and popular eateries, with Dewa Warung being frequently mentioned for its affordability and bustling atmosphere. Gosih Lounge on Monkey Forest Road is recommended for its Indonesian buffet and social dining setup.

Travelers have called out Gosih Lounge for its Indonesian buffet priced at IDR 55,000, allowing unlimited dining without takeaways. This venue also features large communal tables, ideal for solo travelers looking to interact.

Some users have recommended specific upscale dining experiences in Ubud. Kubu at Mandapa and Blanco par Mandif are highlighted for their exceptional dining experiences. Sayan House is also mentioned for its top-tier offerings.

Posts indicate that Ubud offers a wide range of cuisines near its center. Recommendations include The Melting Pot Saloon, Kafe Bunute, and No Mas Ubud, which are popular for their vibrant atmospheres and diverse menus catering to international tastes.

According to forum posts, Ubud offers numerous cultural and artistic activities. Some travelers suggested visiting significant temples such as Tirta Empul and Gunung Kawi. Additionally, engaging in local arts is highly recommended; activities like the Chez Monique Silversmith class and an E-Bike ride with Ubud Electrical Bicycle Tours provide a unique cultural immersion.

For outdoor enthusiasts, forum users recommended walking the Campuhan Ridge and exploring the Kajeng Rice Fields. The Jatiluwih Rice Terraces are also a top choice for visitors seeking scenic beauty. Moreover, engaging in a guided walk or hike such as the Ayung River Valley Walk or the Batukaru Jungle Trek can enrich your experience with natural and picturesque landscapes.

Travelers have called out the vibrant evening scenes in Ubud, highlighting the availability of dance and gamelan performances at several local venues. For relaxation, visiting the Setia Darma House of Masks & Puppets and enjoying a flower bath at nearby spas are recommended activities to unwind after a day of exploration.

According to forum posts, the typical rate for an airport transfer to Ubud ranges from 300,000 IDR to 400,000 IDR. Some travelers mentioned specific booking platforms like Klook, where prices start at around 19 USD, approximately 300,000 IDR.

Travelers have recommended using various booking services, such as ubudareatours.com, for both airport transfers and local tours. Additionally, some posts noted the convenience of booking through the accommodation for added security, despite potentially higher costs.

Several posts emphasized the importance of choosing reputable drivers for a safe and reliable experience. Travelers shared links to lists of recommended drivers and advised on pre-booking to avoid the need to negotiate or find a driver upon arrival.

Travelers have reported that the journey from the airport to Ubud typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions. The transfer is considered safe, even late at night, as mentioned by multiple users who have made the trip after late arrivals.

According to forum posts, hiring a private driver in Ubud for a full day costs around IDR 600,000 and about IDR 400,000 for a half-day. These rates are per vehicle, not per person.

Some travelers suggested using local websites like ubudareatours.com to book private drivers, as they are well-versed in the area. It’s also recommended to consult the TripAdvisor forum for a list of recommended drivers.

For many users, engaging a private driver has proved to be a convenient option for exploring areas around Ubud. Travelers have called out that drivers can be easily arranged through accommodations or found along the streets in Ubud.

According to forum posts, in Ubud, the Ayung River offers a milder rafting experience suitable for those looking for less intense white-water rafting. Travelers have highlighted the Telaga Waja River for those seeking a more adventurous ride with more intense rapids.

Some travelers recommended Sobek as a reputable rafting company, noting its strong safety and satisfaction records. Sobek was mentioned for offering rafting on both the Ayung and Telaga Waja Rivers. Another company, Mason Adventures, was suggested for enjoyable rafting experiences on the Ayung River during the dry season.

Travelers have called out that safety gear like helmets and life jackets are typically provided, and guides give clear instructions and commands during the rafting trip to ensure safety. The experience is generally described as fun and safe by users who have rafted in Ubud.

According to forum posts, the Mount Batur trek is manageable for those in good physical condition but can be challenging due to steep and slippery sections. Travelers have suggested wearing proper trekking shoes and using trekking poles for better balance and support.

Some travelers said booking a guided tour is recommended as it includes a compulsory local mountain guide for the hike. The experience generally starts early in the morning around 3 am for a sunrise view, and involves a collective bus ride to the starting point with other tourists.

For many users, the descent was noted to be particularly tough on the knees. Travelers have called out that the loose lava rock gravel can make the hike slippery. However, the views from the trail are rewarding, and some opted to enjoy the sunrise from lower points on the trail to avoid crowds at the summit.

Travelers have mentioned the importance of respectful negotiation when arranging tours, highlighting that while polite haggling is acceptable, aggressive bargaining or rude behavior is frowned upon within the local community.