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Why Add an Ubud Stay to Your Bali Family Holiday

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Ubud is perfect for families visiting Bali because it offers a mix of cultural experiences, wildlife encounters, adventure activities, a wide variety of dining options, and centrally located, family-friendly accommodation.

Planning a family holiday in Bali? Staying in Ubud keeps your travel short, offers activities for all ages, and makes it easy to enjoy culture, nature, food, and fun without the stress of long drives or crowded beaches.

What Makes Ubud Ideal for Family Vacations?

Ubud is Bali’s cultural heart and an adventure hub for families. Whether your kids love animals, outdoor thrills, creative activities, or exploring nature, Ubud has something for everyone.

Highlights:

  • Located near Bali’s most popular family attractions
  • Access to nature walks, rice terraces, and waterfalls
  • Cultural immersion in daily Balinese life, traditions, and dances.
  • Adventure activities for young kids and teens

Families visit Ubud for easy access to cultural, natural, and adventure activities suitable for all ages.

Family Adventure Activities in Ubud

Ubud is packed with fun and action for thrill-seekers of all ages. Staying here means you won’t need to cram long drives into one day.

Outdoor activities include:

You can enjoy rafting, quad biking, cycling, and scenic walks all in Ubud area keeping travel short and stress free.

Cultural & Creative Experiences for Kids

Ubud is perfect for kids who love hands on activities and learning about local traditions.

Try these activities:

Tip: Book activities in advance to ensure availability of best drivers, guides and activities. 

Exploring Ubud Town With Your Family

When you want a more relaxed day:

  • Walk to the Monkey Forest or the Maha Bunny Rabbit Café
  • Shop at local markets and boutiques
  • Visit cafés, spas, and family friendly jungle clubs.
  • Access ATMs, minimarts, pharmacies, and laundries easily

Families enjoy Ubud’s walkable town centre with shops, cafes, and cultural attractions close by.

Wildlife Attractions for Kids

Animal lovers will enjoy interactive experiences at:

  • Bali Zoo
  • Mason Elephant Park
  • Bali Safari & Marine Park
  • Butterfly Park

Activities include:

  • Breakfast with orangutans
  • Getting up close with animals

Tip: Great for younger children as involves minimal traveling 

Beaches Near Ubud

Even though Ubud isn’t on the coast, it is driving distance to the beach.a 40 minute drive gets you to:

For a beach break from Ubud, visit Komune Beach or Blue Lagoon.

Food & Dining in Ubud — Something for Every Palate

Ubud isn’t just about culture, nature, and adventure — it’s also a food lover’s paradise, with an incredible variety of cuisines and options to satisfy every kind of eater.

✅ What You’ll Find

  • All Cuisines  — from traditional Indonesian warungs to gourmet fine dining, Ubud offers global cuisine: Italian, Indian, Mexican, Western, Balinese and more
  • Vegan & Vegetarian  — many restaurants focus on plant-based, raw, organic, and healthy meals
  • Family Friendly for Fussy Eaters — even fussy eaters or groups will find food that suits everyone

Where to Eat & What to Expect

  • Local Warungs — casual, inexpensive, authentic Indonesian meals
  • Cafés  — healthy bowls, smoothies, kid-friendly dishes, and international option
  • Fine-dining restaurants — gourmet menus including vegetarian and vegan options
  • Vegan & Vegetarian — creative menus with organic and plant-based meals

Recommended Resource

For a comprehensive overview of Ubud’s dining scene, check the Ubud Good Food Guide, which includes 60+ eateries across all budgets, cuisines, and dietary preferences. It covers local warungs, vegan & vegetarian cafés, international restaurants, and family-friendly options.

Ubud has food options for everyone, from local warungs to fine dining, including vegan and vegetarian meals, and the Ubud Good Food Guide helps you find the best eateries

Affordable Family Accommodation in Ubud

Bisma Cottages is a central, family-friendly option with rooms designed for comfort and convenience:

Room Choices:

Packages Available:

  • Family Fun Package: Two half-day tours including tubing, agrofarm visits, and lunch
  • Ubud Adventure Package: White water rafting, Bali swings, ziplining, and waterfall visits
  • Family Floating Breakfast included
  • Safe, reputable operators and English-speaking guides with 5 star experience

Bisma Cottages Ubud offers family rooms, family packages, and poolside relaxation, all in central Ubud.

What Families Are Saying About Bisma Cottages

  • “Excellent for Families! The staff were lovely with the kids, and we loved the adventure tours and Bali swing experience!”
  • “A Must Stay! The family adventure package gave us the right mix of activities for adults and kids. Beautiful cottages and great location.”

The Best of Bali, Without the Stress

Ubud offers short travel times, centrally located accommodation, cultural and adventure experiences, and nature activities for all ages. It’s an easy, stress-free way to enjoy Bali with your family and a must include on your Bali Bucket List. 

Staying in Ubud keeps travel times short, provides adventure and cultural activities, and makes family holidays in Bali stress free.

Check Room Availability at Bisma Cottages.

Book Bisma Cottages Family Package.

See All Tours & Activites

Need Help ?

Bisma Street Guide

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 To make this Ubud boutique property name easy to remember we wanted to keep it simple. So Bisma is named after the street and Cottages after the style of accommodation. Street translates to Jalan in Indonesian language so in Bali is known as Jalan Bisma. Bisma was one of the most powerful warriors of his time and in history, so this name is easily remembered by local people.

Jalan Bisma is a popular area to stay in Ubud due to the central yet quiet location. The road is one way for cars but through road for pedestrians, cyclists and motorbikes.

Walk right from Bisma Cottages and arrive in Monkey Forest Road in 5 minutes, turn left and you will arrive at Ubud Palace and Market in 15 Minutes.

Ubud Monkey Forest entrance is only 1 minute from the corner of Bisma Street and Monkey Forest Road.

Yoga Barn is 15 minutes walk form Monkey Forest.

Walk left from Bisma Cottages and arrive at Ubud Palace and Ubud Market in 15 minutes and Campuhan Ridge in 20 minutes. This route is recommended in the morning or evening. During the day it can be busy.


Mt Agung View from Bisma Street

Most of the street was upgraded in 2019 and now again in 2023 to be wide enough for car, motorbikes and pedestrians to access with ease.

Jalan Bisma has great shops, spa’s, resto’s, live music, coffee shops and the necessities like mini marts, ATM, Laundry and Pharmacy.

For assistance with tours, transport and motorbike rental please ask our staff. Bisma Cottages has two cars and two motorbikes. One each in standard and luxury categories.

Here is your guide to Bisma Street. 

1. Lucky Family Cafe
Located almost directly across from Bisma Cottages makes the café very convenient for breakfast, coffee or drink break, lunch and dinner. Opening hours from 8am with last order at 10pm. A good range of breakfast menu choices including smoothie bowls and very good coffee. Lunch and Dinner menu offers tasty Indonesian and Western food choices at very reasonable prices. Also recommend mocktails, smoothies, spring rolls and coconut banana pancakes. The design is modern including ground level open air dining plus upstairs AC and open air areas that have a nice breeze.

2. Early Breakfast Options – Pistachio & Little Talks

Both open from 7am so is the recommendation for early breakfast or coffee before an early morning tour or activity.

Pistachio is the restaurant in front of Adiwana Hotel and is only 75 metres from Bisma Cottages. 

Little Talks is slightly further along with a more simple but much cheaper breakfast menu. Coffee, smoothie bowls and nasi goreng are very good here. There is both AC and outdoor dining areas.

3. Money Exchange
We can change currency at Bisma Cottages. Please advise Reception staff how much you want to change, they will check exchange rate and prepare money asap. Learn more Bali Money Tips HERE

4. ATM
Located close to Honeymoon Kitchen is Maybank ATM. The standalone ATM is recognisable by the bright yellow logo. This is the best ATM in Bisma Street because it is reliable, you can withdraw IDR 3,000,000 in one transaction (just choose other when selecting amount) and it always has cash.
Tip: if you want more than IDR 3,000,000 take your card after the transaction and then start again.

5. DR Dede Phone Shop
A lovely lady, Rupi and her husband Dr Dede own the phone shop just opposite Adiwana Hotel. Here you can get an Indonesian SIM card (must bring passport) and phone cables, charger and accessories. Very handy if you have forgotten to pack your charger !

6. Pharmacy
Guardian Pharmacies are all easily identified as they have bright orange signage. In Bisma Street the location is about 10 minutes’ walk from Bisma Cottages, close to Uma Pizza. At Guardian you will find toiletries, make up, vitamins and basic pharmaceuticals. If your medication is not available here, try Kimia Farma, there isn’t one in Bisma Street but our staff can advise the closest. Tip: Indonesian word for Pharmacy or Chemist is Apotek.

7. Eco Laundry and ABC Laundry
The two closest laundries to Bisma Cottages are ABC and Eco Laundry. Both offer very good service payable by the weight of your items. You will find the ABC Laundry list in your room. This laundry is more of a commercial laundry and is located next door to Putri Spa 2. Eco Laundry is a small laundry, turn right from Bisma Cottages you will find their sign. They use eco friendly detergent which also is not so harsh on clothing. Laundry will be ready un 24 hours and there is an express service available.

8. Minimarts
In Bisma Street you will find a range of convenience shops. The closest to Bisma Cottages is Bisma Mart. Turn left and you will see in approx 2 minutes. The convenience store chains in Bali are Circle K and Mini Mart that will sell panadol, sanitary napkins, alcohol.

9. Kurnia Wine Shop
Very close to Bisma Cottages, turn right from and you will find in the group of 5 shops. There is a good variety of wine and spirits all at a very reasonable price.

10. Shops
There are too many shops to include all but you can find many shops in Bisma Street. Clothing and souvenirs that are both available with set price and barter. There is also homewares, art and Home Tip: Indonesian word for shop is Toko.

11. Tropicana Tailor
The lovely Ibu Rai is the owner and seamstress at the only tailor shop in Jalan Bisma. Every guest that has had clothing made has been very happy. Most guests bring the material to Ibu Rai and she copies an existing clothing item or a photo. The shop is small on the west side of Jalan Bisma, close to Goya Hotel. Please allow plenty of time for clothes to be made as Ibu Rai is a one lady operation.

12. Ubud Monkey Forest
Whilst not located on Jalan Bisma, in only 5 minutes walk you can be at Ubud Monkey Forest.
Turn right from our entrance and right again when you get to the end of Bisma Street. Learn more about Ubud Monkey Forest HERE

13. Putri Spa 2 & 3
There is 2 locations very close to Bisma Cottages. Putri 2 is the original spa in Jalan Bisma and Putri 3 opened in March 2023 so is newer and a more modern. Both offer the same the same wide range of spa services that give your mind and body a total relaxation experience. The large spa menu includes foot and leg massage, reflexology and full body massages, all highly recommended after a day walking around Ubud town. Other must try spa services are 4 Hand Massage and Hair Crème Bath, both which are total bliss.

The spa’s are clean and the friendly lady therapists are experienced and mindful of hygiene. Offering great value, many guests spend a minimum one hour here every day during their stay at Bisma Cottages. Bookings necessary.

14. Moggumung Korean BBQ
One of our guest had an incredible tatoo here. She was bery happy with service, workmanship and price which makes this another great business in Jalan Bisma. Check the google reviews which also highly rate this studio.

15. Warung Ning
Located in Bisma Street, directly across from Bisma Cottages. With the increase in Korean travellers coming to Ubud, it was only a matter of time before some quality Korean BBQ restaurants opened. Chef Im, from Korea of course, already has Moggumung outlets in Seminyak and really knows his stuff by offering delicious and great value Korean BBQ concept. The menu doesn’t have too many choices, so all meats, vegetables and salads are super fresh. If you have never tried Korean BBQ, then Moggumung is a great choice as Chef Im will cook a BBQ for you and is a great host.

16. Uma Pizza
Such yummy food and is an absolute bargain. Pizza is spot on but their Indonesian food, pasta and chicken dishes are very good too. Alcoholic drinks are limited. You need to book for dinner during high season. Be warned….you will get addicted to Uma Pizza. Deliver to Bisma Cottages available.

17. Magali Gelato
This is a cute little shop where the lady paints and makes icecream. There is some standard flavors but also always a couple with a twist such as the highly recommended banana, peanut butter and almond. All taste super fresh and creamy. Recommended for a stop enroute back to Bisma Cottages after dinner or watching the Balinese dance.

18. Pukako
Pukako is located close to Raya Ubud, a great spot to grab a coffee enroute to a day tour or when walking around Ubud Town. The coffee is definitely in our top 3 in Ubud. All the food is delicious, but Panini’s and Carrot Cake are definite specialities.

19. Chora
Stunning modern décor yet this restaurant has a relaxed feeling.  Overlooking a beautiful garden with moon view in the evenings. We particularly love the starters, dips and side dishes which can be ordered tapas style. Pornstar Martini cocktail is one the of the best cocktails in Ubud. Try and see if you agree!

20. Bisma Valley
Only 200 metres from Bisma Cottages,  Adiwana Bisma Hotel has a street side resto Pistachio and a poolside bar with an amazing jungle view Bisma Valley. Bisma Valley has a great Buy 1 Get 1 Free Happy Hour with good quality drinks.  The view is beautiful, the bar area breezy and relaxing, the staff very friendly and being so close to Bisma Cottages makes Bisma Valley a winner.

21. Shamanamama Café
A new favourite for 2025. Located approx. half way between Bisma Cottages and Ubud Main Street on left. The decor is beautiful but still feels homey. The food is classic comfort style—delicious pasta, perfectly cooked pizza, healthy soups and a great variety of breakfast options, including some unique and tasty choices. Coffee is consistently good, and they offer great promos during breakfast and dinner times. There’s covered outdoor seating, indoor AC, and even a separate kids’ room so kids will not  disturb others.
Highly recommend trying the syrniki for a sweet treat. 
Definitely worth a visit during hours 8am – 10pm or order delivery to Bisma Cottages via Whats App +62 859 630 88361

22. Why Not Live Music Bar
Probably the most famous bar in Ubud Town for nightly live music. Close to the corner of Raya Ubud, Why Not has a different local band every night of the week and they always get the party atmosphere started. Music can be rock, pop, reggae and more. Why Not is also an option for a casual dinner. Homemade fries, burgers and Indonesian food are popular choices. Every night of the week is busy, fun and social at Why Not.

23. Yoga Class at Honeymoon
10 minute walk from Bisma Cottages toward Raya Ubud you will find Honeymoon Guesthouse. They have a lovely cool, quiet space for yoga and Ketut who is often the instructor is very good. There are daily morning classes at 8.30am and afternoon classes at 4pm.  Price approx. IDR 120,000 per person per class. And don’t worry this place is not only for Honeymooners.

24. Bisma Padel Tennis
Padel Tennis is becoming increasingly popular in Bali and we are lucky that Bisma Padel has now opened just across the road.
A really fun activity if you want to keep fit during your holiday, looking for a rainy day activity or to keep the kids entertained.

25. Shinraku Teppanyaki 
New to Bisma Street in 2025, this teppanyaki restaurant offers intimate dining experience. Choose to sit at the long table to watch the teppanyaki chef in action or a more private table. Salmon teppanyaki is highly recommended, and the vegetables are delicious. Their sushi is also very good. Recommend for a fun, light and healthy meal. Because of the restaurant size make a booking during high season.
Open daily 3pm – 10pm. Whats App +62 811 3811 4685

26. Apotekku
A 24-hour pharmacy located near Bisma Cottages. A pharmacist is on duty at all times, and medication delivery is available. For inquiries or delivery requests, please contact via WhatsApp at +62 811 3831 3601.

Tip: When staying at Bisma Cottages you don’t need to buy drinking water. We provide free unlimited Balian Drinking Water (best quality available) Refillable glass bottle is inside every fridge, but you can also bring your own water bottle.

Read why our guests love staying in Jalan Bisma

I stay at Bisma Cottages, and it never disappoints. It’s on Jalan Bisma (my fave street in Ubud) and has cute cafes all around, my fave spa, a 30 second walk away, and is walkable to the centre of Ubud.

For me I’d say Bisma Cottages is a good place to stay your Ubud stay. Everything is in walking distance plus ATM, laundry, minimart. Alexa recommended in one of her UTube videos. Lovely staff and a great price for solo travelers.

 

It’s All Good to Go It Alone in Ubud

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SeAsia Stats has just named Bali, Indonesia as the number one BEST place for solo travelers!

Why is Bali the number one destination for solo travelers?

Solo travel – with both male and female solo travelers – is on the increase, so it is important to know suitable destinations that won’t break the budget AND offer a wealth of experiences and adventure.

Located in the heart of Bali, Ubud has always been popular with solo travelers. And Bisma Cottages is the ideal place to drop your bag and set out to explore this intriguing town and it’s surroundings!

Here are our top 20 reasons solo travelers are loving Ubud!

  1. With wellness, culture, cuisine and stunning scenery all on your doorstep, why wouldn’t Ubud be solo traveler’s first choice as a base from which to embark on your Bali adventure?!
  2. You won’t be alone! If the 2024 stats are anything to go by, more solo travelers are adding Ubud to their itinerary –  and are choosing to stay longer too.
  3. Embrace the autonomy of choosing your own adventure and the unexpected joys of traveling solo, the ultimate freedom that solo travel offers.
  4. Whether you’re after relaxation, a ‘rejuvacation’, or time to focus on personal health and self-improvement, Ubud offers so many classes and workshops to experience.
  5. Mingle, meditate, or wander the streets as you ponder life’s next move.  There is a energy that tends to promote consciousness and clarity in Ubud, helping many solo travelers make life changing decisions throughout their Ubud stay. “Leaving Ubud is like leaving my home. I adore every single thing about this magical pocket on our precious planet. I find myself flipping through photos on my phone, of water temples, crazy monkeys and happy memories with friends that feel like family, and aching to return as soon as possible”                Alice, United Kingdom                                                                                                                      
  6. Even if you have already found your focus in life and are seeking like-minded solo travelers to share creativity and business ideas with, or searching for a travel buddy to share your adventures, Ubud is bursting with WhatsApp and Facebook groups geared towards collaboration and connection.
  7. A compact town, Ubud is safe to walk around solo and offers a multitude of amazing scenic trails easily accessible from the main street of town.
  8. There is so much history, culture and nature to see and do in Ubud and surrounding areas. Making Ubud your base allows solo travelers to explore, but then come back to the convenience of the town at the end of the day.
  9. Everyone is so friendly and helpful in Ubud, you instantly feel more safe and relaxed compared to the tourist areas in South Bali.
  10. The town has many live music bars hosting exceptional local bands and acoustic singers; a refreshing absence of ‘beach clubs’ belting out thumping beats! Here it is easy to mingle and make new friends.
  11. Strategically located in the centre of Ubud, yet secluded enough to ensure peace and quiet, Bisma Cottages is within walking distance to  everything. sSo there’s no need to worry about hiring a scooter!
  12. Bisma Cottages offers safe and secure accommodation while you explore the magic of Ubud. As a female solo traveler especially, safety is of the utmost importance – and you will find that safety here with us at Bisma Cottages.
  13. You can also book the Bisma Cottages hotel car for transport or tours throughout your time with us; this can be easily arranged through Bisma Cottages. You won’t find better tour guides than Darma and his team, so check out the list of carefully planned tours for the best experience! https://bismacottagesubud.com/our-tours/
  14. Host Kelly has a wealth of local knowledge, that she is ready and delighted to share with you!
  15. Rooms at Bisma Cottages are Boho Bali style, super comfortable, and reasonably priced. Perfect for solo travelers, their quaint cottages are surrounded by tropical gardens close to a sheltered pool area ensuring privacy, and our reliable WiFi connection means digital nomads can continue with online work and vacationers can wind down with a Netflix fix.
  16. Check out our exclusive 3 night package that has been especially designed for solo travelers! https://bismacottagesubud.com/package/solo-girls-package/
  17. Longer stays are a popular choice among Bisma Cottages guests as their single rooms offer the benefit of privacy and affordability, perfect for solo travelers who want to anchor into a Bali base during their time on the Island of the Gods.
  18. Health emergencies can happen: and Bisma Cottages are prepared, with a relationship with a highly recommended clinic that can do house calls 24/7.
  19. We focus on using only eco-operating practices at Bisma Cottages, including using only environmentally friendly products and providing free Balian mineral water on tap for unlimited refills (Pro Tip – BYO water bottle!)
  20. Don’t just take our word for it… check out TripAdvisor, Google, and Solo Girls Travel Guides for independent traveler reviews on where to stay and what to do while you’re in Ubud…So, are you ready to embark on your very own Eat, Pray, Love experience? Go on, book it today!

“My #1 pick for solo female travelers who want to spend affordably while diving headfirst into Balinese culture and Ubud local life” 

Alexa West, Founder Solo Girls Travel Guide.

Contact here for accommodation, experiences, custom itineraries and wellness treatments:

Web: https://bismacottagesubud.com/
Email:  hello@bismacottagesubud.com
Instagram @bismacottagesubud
Facebook @bismacottages
Whats App +62 812-3896-0803

25 Helpful Hints for Booking Tours in Bali.

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When visiting Bali it is lucky that all locations can either be covered by car or a short boat trip (no flights), with tours in Bali a popular option for visitors. A private day tour with a car and driver is definitely the best way to see Bali Island, particularly new areas for tourism and destinations that are in high demand.

Of Bali’s 238 tourist villages; the most popular is Ubud and Bangli areas as here they offer adventure tourism experiences like white water rafting, mountain treking, cycling, waterfall jumping, tubing and hiking. With so much on offer, it really is a case of choosing your own adventure!

So the Number 1 Tours in Bali Tip  – For activities and sightseeing in the Ubud area and further north stay in Ubud. Don’t plan to visit Ubud and do the activities in this area in day trips. Best idea is to stay in Ubud and do all the activities and touring in this area and further north with Ubud as a base. There are more than 50 attractions in Ubud and its surrounding areas.

  1. Same as with flights and accommodation if you prebook your tours in Bali the price will be confirmed. And in these times of increasing petrol costs, this will prove good for your holiday budget. Prices definitely increase when booking last minute during peak times.
  2. The best go first, so best driver, best car and best activities will always get booked up in advance.
  3. Bookng in advance assures no errors due to miscommunication or oversights because the booking was rushed.
  4. Families take the hassle (and family arguments 😉) about where, what and when you are visiting. Prebooked tours can be changed or cancelled if not feeling well.
  5. Why spend valuable holiday time booking tours when it can be all complete and you just need to enjoy your time with friends and family. Very often travelers sit in cafe’s not talking to each other or enjoying the food because they are scrolling on phones trying to plan a tour itinerary.
  6. Pay attention if you are getting a driver, a guide or both. What is the difference? A driver simply drives you to the sites, he does not accompany you after arriving. He will wait in the car parking area until guest exit.  A driver who is also a guide will drive, enter the locations, provide explanation and answer questions. So this is how you will really learn about Bali, its people, traditions and culture. 
  7. Guides not only know the history but will also have insider tips  (eg where the good toilets are located)  and help you when needed. Example; some areas can have aggressive street sellers, a guide wont desert you. He will help bargain or assist if you are not interested as guides know the correct cultural etiquette and of course the language !!
  8. So don’t scrimp money by not paying extra to have a guide, after all you spent a lot money getting to Bali. If booking with a 5 star hotel or luxury agent the driver and guide will be two separate people but the Balinese people are so talented that there are many drivers that can also be a guide. 
  9. Prices may be more but you will be getting more experienced driver and guide confirmed plus includes all entrance tickets etc. Non prebooked tours usually don’t include entrance tickets.
  10. Don’t be fooled, the distance on the map may not be far but consider Bali mostly has single lane roads so if you get stuck behind a truck travelling time will be more…and then there’s roadworks and road closures due to ceremonies. On most roads in tourist areas you will not drive more than 40kmph.
  11. Due to reasonably price, there are no group tours. This is also because Bali’s roads are narrow and cannot handle buses well. Activities eg. Cooking class, Quad Biking and Whitewater Rafting you join with others as group. This is great for solo travelers and there is no extra charge for one person bookings. Private activities can be booked, often at not much more cost. Please contact us for price.

About Bisma Cottages Tours in Bali

  1. Bisma Cottages Tours are all tried and tested – We only promote areas and places we have personally visited and enjoyed.
  2. Lunch stops are carefully selected based on location, food variety and quality.
  3. Cars are clean, good quality, have working AC and a first aid kit.
  4. Drivers are all guides also and are Ubud locals so have expert knowledge about Ubud and surrounding areas.
  5. Drivers/Guides all speak very good English. They are happy to have conversations and talk with guests about Bali life.
  6. They are great with kids.
  7. The most experienced driver and guide previously worked at Ritz Carlton so we are very grateful to have him work with Bisma Cottages now.
  8. Our team are reliable and don’t cancel at last minute or change driver
  9. Drivers are safe and know how to drive for maximum guest comfort. We can now offer a luxury car for an even smoother ride with a full sunroof.
  10. Itineraries are carefully planned with the best order to see sights, minimize travelling time, traffic and avoid crowds.
  11. We break up the day so you can stretch your legs and lessen car sickness.
  12. Driver don’t just follow google maps which give the quickest route, not the most scenic.
  13. Include a combination of must see sights plus some lesser known, less crowded locations.
  14. By booking with us you will always have a contact if something is forgotten in the car….you wont believe how many people do forget valuables.
  15. We want you to have best experience, so will not rush onto move to next location.
  16. We Love Bali and want you to love it too.

Travelling and doing the tours with the Balinese guide was incredibly beneficial and an enriching experience for me. it felt like a more authentic experience. i felt like a traveller rather than a tourist. it was a beautiful experience to let them welcome me into their culture and it felt so personalized because i was by myself.

You also get the advantage of a unique perspective. Doing these activities with a Balinese guide allowed me to broaden my horizons by hearing personal stories along the way of these experiences.

I saw the community in a different light.

it was also a nice for cultural exchange! i enjoyed sharing my own personal experiences and knowledge while learning about his :)

A sense of connection is made even though we come from such different backgrounds!

The whole experience is so personalized and made me grow in ways i didn’t even think possible just from doing these activities!
Brooke, Canada, March 2023

Have questions or need help planning your Ubud stay and your tours in Bali ?

Contact Us
hello@bismacottagesubud.com
www.bismacottagesubud.com
Instagram @bismacottagesubud
Facebook @bismacottages

Booking your Ubud accommodation…what’s best Direct, Online Agent or Travel Agent ?

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An often asked question in chat groups is how best to book Bali accommodation. We also get asked from Bisma Cottages guests why we are not listed on Online Travel Agent’s (Booking.com, Expedia and Agoda) 

So, its time to share the pros and cons for booking with an OTA, Travel Agent and Direct.  

General Info

OTA – Use templates and do not allow hotels to write their own descriptions. This is so they can use key words for search optimization. This means the best or unique features of the property are often not highlighted. 

Travel Agent  – will have recent info and photos as is provided by hotel. Often description is limited due to space so you are getting a summarized description. 

Hotel – Will always have most up to date info and photos from hotel on website and particularly social media. 

Note: Google take photos from other websites and mix them …not date order from most recent to older.

Location – A recent study says location is the first factor people look for when searching for a hotel.  OTA, Agents and Hotel do all rely on 3rd party maps eg. Google.  Whilst these apps give a good general location, they are not always 100% accurate in Bali (apple maps is definitely not reliable in Bali yet) So when arranging transport to your accommodation it is recommended to use a driver that works for the hotel or is from the area. The last problem you want, particularly after a long flight is not being able to find your accommodation. 

Price – OTA and Agents cannot offer unique packages, inclusions, benefits or services as they have set rate structures, policies and procedures. 

Examples that are not promoted via OTA’s or Agents. 

  1. Bisma Cottages offers specialized packages that include tailored tours, experiences and other inclusions for solo travelers, adventurers, and families.
  2. Bisma Cottages offers Free Floating Breakfast for minimum 3 night stays.
  3. Bisma Cottages provides yoga mats in all rooms. 
  4. Long stay special rates. 

OTA –  A strategy by some OTA’s is offering a low price as click bait and then adding tax. 

Travel Agent – Most promote complete packages. Airfares, airport transport, accommodation, and other inclusions. Always inclusive of tax. 

Hotel – Hotel will offer wider range of rates and packages as mentioned above.  Bisma Cottages quotes tax inclusive, it has never been our policy to add tax after quoting a room rate.  If a cheaper price is available via an OTA or Agent usually the hotel will price match or even offer cheaper.

Booking Process

OTA –  definitely finalized quickly including payment. Beware many OTAs link to each other so the booking may not always be via the OTA you thought. Also consider affiliate sites, booking.com is strongly into recruiting companies and influencers with high number of followers to link to their site in return for a commission. 

Travel Agent – speed and ease of booking process will vary agent to agent depending on how automated they are. Big benefit is that you have a human to speak with for any questions and if things go wrong. 

Hotel – some hotels will be reliant on online booking systems and in this case booking and payment is via hotel website. Questions would need to be emailed or sent via Whats App.  Bisma Cottages stopped using a booking system in 2020. Bookings can now be made via email, social media messenger, google or what app. Direct messaging is considered to be the way of the future as consumers want questions answered quickly. This suits perfectly with Bisma Cottages as we aim to provide a more personalized service compared to larger Ubud hotels.  

Payment 

OTA  – Offer many payment options via safe and convenient payment gateways.

Travel Agent – this will vary depending on country but most agents seem to be preferring credit cards and so do customers so they can get frequent flyer points.

Hotel  – Most hotels will take credit cards, many will accept transfer and all will be happy to take cash 😊

Cancellation and Refunds –  Due to the corona virus travellers have learnt some very important lessons in this area when canceling or delaying their holiday. 

 OTA – only have one set of cancellation and amendment policies which is chosen by the customer at time of booking.

Travel Agent – Are bound by the terms and conditions in their contracts with airlines and hotels. Since agent rates are generally low, cancellation penalties are usually 100%. Due to COVID19 most airlines and hotels did allow credits.

Hotel   – whilst we can speak for all hotels most in Ubud we know during to COVID either refunded or gave the full amount as a credit to be used within a specific time.  Bisma Cottages gave guest two years to use any monies paid in full. 

Note: Using your travel insurance is the best way to get monies refunded if cancellation is beyond your control. Travel Insurance will cover no matter the booking source. 

Communication/Service 

OTA –  The customer cannot contact the hotel direct and vice versa.  OTAs are all about growing their own database and maintaining marketshare. When something goes wrong OTA’s are not quick to resolve or refund. 

Travel Agent  – it is very difficult to agents to have knowledge of every Bali hotel. Some may try and push you toward hotels they feel comfortable selling or get a better deal. We recommend to book with a travel agent who has recently travelled to Bali. 

Hotel   – The hotel knows their property better than anyone so it is definitely better to book direct if you have special requests. Hotels will also upgrade customers who booked direct before those who have booked with an agent. If you are a returning guest definitely book direct as the hotel should have you recorded as a guest. If not make sure they know about it !!

In Summary

OTA – good for searching and doing research. Find a few hotels you like and then contact direct. 

Travel Agent  – if you want a package with flights, transfer and loads of value adds book with a travel agent. 

Hotel  – Direct is always best for communication, price and service.  Most hotels respond to Facebook Messenger, Instagram DMs and of course email.   Whats App is the most widely used direct messaging service in Bali. Look out for phone contact numbers +62 8xxx and this will also be used for whats app. Unless the rate is a super deal hotels are happy with deposit and balance paid at check in. So save your money until arriving in Bali. 

Bali was closed for international tourism for 2 years. Domestic tourism was promoted during 2021. During this time no assistance or consideration was given by OTAs. Properties were advised to offer bigger discounts to attract bookings. The commission combined with tax and minimum discounts is now 39%.  

Being a boutique property at Bisma Cottages we want to give the best most personalized service for our guests from start to finish (and beyond ) During the past 2 years it has been a pleasure to help and get to know our guests prior to arrival. We have been able to presend valuable info about money, transport, healers, wellness etc.  For these reasons plus many others there is no going back !!

Any questions ? Contact Us

hello@bismacottagesubud.com

www.bismacottagesubud.com

Intagram @bismacottagesubud

Facebook @bismacottages

Whats App +62 811 3857278

*The blog is the opinion of the author and is for information purposes to educate readers about accommodation booking services. 

Happy Holidays Here in Bali – Bali Awards 2022

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In Search of the World’s Happiest Holiday Destination

“It’s true…. Every time I land at Bali Airport I feel happy!”

If the travel restrictions of the past couple of years have taught us anything it is that travel makes us happy! Global lockdowns may have stopped our wanderlust for a while but once border restrictions eased millions of travellers resolved to pack their bags and head to wherever made their heart sing. Based on the results of recent International Travel Awards and surveys, Bali gets the votes as ‘The World’s Happiest Holiday Destination’.

According to research conducted by internationally renowned, France based travel company Club Med, Bali has taken out top spot as the happiest location for holiday makers the world over! And why wouldn’t it when one considers affordability, wealth of wellness opportunities and safety, the island’s unique natural beauty and culture along with its worldwide popularity as a friendly and stress-free vacation destination.

Just recently, Bali ranked second in 2023 TripAdvisor’s Travelers’ Choice for the top 25 popular destinations, – only behind Dubai, which has topped the list for two years in a row. The magic of the Island of Gods just cannot be denied. The Balinese people have the biggest smiles and provide the most genuine service are so deserving of this award as their island has bounced back better than ever.

In 2022, Bali placed fourth on the list after only being open for tourism for 8 months, and now the island has jumped another two places this year. Watch out Dubai, Bali is coming for you 😉

“[Bali is] a living postcard, an Indonesian paradise that feels like a fantasy,” wrote TripAdvisor on their website. Ubud also gets a special mention as the ‘ artistic capital ‘ of Bali.

Note: Locals describe Ubud as the centre of Bali’s culture (which includes art), nature and wellness.

As if this isn’t accolade enough, British media money.co.uk recently ranked Indonesia as the Most Beautiful Country in the World; basing their assessment on its unique natural wonders including volcanoes, tropical forests, coral reefs and UNESCO world heritage sites, not to mention the archipelago’s 50,000 kilometres of stunning coastline!

And if wellness options, outdoor adventures and picture-perfect scenery seem to be the secrets to Bali’s success as a sought-after holiday destination then happy holiday hunters need look no further than Ubud. Sliding in at Number 3 in internationally acclaimed Travel + Leisure’s list of ‘The 25 Best Cities in the World’ Ubud is rated in the top three for food, culture and friendliness. Its myriad of accommodation options ranging from budget to bougee sets this scenic mountain top town up as a worthy competitor to the beachside favourites Seminyak and Canggu.

Yet despite Ubud’s growing popularity, there’s no need to spend a fortune on high end accommodation. 2022 Travel and Hospitality Awards (THA) – an annual event designed to celebrate those organizations that are excelling in the field of travel and hospitality recently recognised Ubud’s very own Bisma Cottages as the Best Cottages of the Year 2022 for Bali, Indonesia. Their panel of judges comprising of Internationally recognised travel enthusiasts, bloggers, and experts works independently to choose the best hotels, tour operators, and other organizations that are doing well in the industry. This prestigious title was awarded to Bisma Cottages on the basis of its uniqueness, quality of services and facilities and exceptional levels of customer care across a number of categories.

All of this for less than USD $100 per night in a locations central to Ubud Palace, Ubud Market, Monkey Forest, Campuhan Ridge Walk and Yoga Barn. Travellers can easily enjoy this happy holiday destination without putting a dent in their wallet!