Vagabonding Field Report: Making art out of life in Ubud, Bali

Cost/day: Around $40/day

What’s the strangest thing you’ve seen lately?

I was walking around Ubud, which has so much traffic, and walking down the sidewalk there was a man with his cow!! There is a lot of traffic in Ubud, so it was very surreal to me. Plus, the sidewalks aren’t the easiest to navigate, so Iwas very impressed with the cow for doing so. I love all of the statues and how the Balinese make everything seem so reverent with their offerings and flowers and incense everyday. They have taught me how to show gratitude.

Describe a typical day:
I think a lot of tourists use Ubud as a base. They take lots of tours everyday, but then they miss the essence that is Bali. I just walked everyday. There was so much to see by just walking down the street. Beautiful people, flowers, the fragrance of pandan leaves, all of these things just made me so happy everyday. Also, I didn’t just walk in central Ubud. I walked out in the rice fields which were a world away from busy Ubud. My senses were just dancing everyday. There was so much to take in.

Describe an interesting conversation you had with a local:

I took painting classes from a local artist. I was amazed to learn that when he was a child he wanted to draw, but his family couldn’t afford pens or paper, so he drew in the dirt with a stick. It made me realize how much I take for granted.

What do you like about where you are? Dislike?

I loved how every day it felt like I was part of the art in Bali. I have never felt more in the moment than I did there. I love the friendly smiles of the people, the food, the serenity. I disliked the traffic. I wish they would do some better planning in that area.

What new lesson did you learn?

I learned patience as many things took longer than I’m used to. Meals were two hour events. There were lots of lines at the grocery store or post office. I learned to just look at my surroundings and not be in a rush. I learned it was OK, to do nothing but sit back and watch the rice grow.