Bali really needs no introduction. It is one of the premier tourist destinations in the world having an amazing combination of spectacular beaches, striking volcanoes, picturesque rice paddies as well as an incredibly rich and vibrant culture and an open and friendly people.

Bali receives thousands of visitors from all over the world every year, and as a result is relatively easy to get to with direct flights from most parts of the world to Denpasar airport, and most things that you would need are readily available including good medical care, and most western goods and services.

The majority of tourists to Bali stay within 30 minutes of the airport either at the huge self-contained 5 star hotels that hug the beach at Nusa Dua or in the heavily touristed areas along Kuta & Legian beach which is the centre in Bali for surfing, shopping and partying.

In the past 20 years visitors have increasingly found their way to Ubud, which lies among picturesque rice paddies in the foot hills of the massive volcanoes in the centre of the island. Ubud remains to this day the cultural centre for Bali, and while it has in recent years experienced a huge increase in the numbers of visitors, it still retains its relaxed, laid back charm, with great restaurants, fascinating culture and the fantastic rice paddy views that have rightly made it so famous.

Ubud is a remarkable town in the middle of the island of Bali. For more than a century, it has been the island's preeminent centre for fine arts, dance and music. While it once was a haven for scruffy backpackers, artists and bohemians, Ubud is now a hot spot for literati, glitterati, art collectors and connoisseurs. Famous names walk its busy sidewalks everyday. Elegant five star hotels and stunning villas such as Villa Kalisha now stand on its outskirts, overlooking the most prized views in Bali. Nonetheless, Ubud is still popular with backpackers, mystics and all the finest fringe elements of global society. Ubud is not "ruined". Its character is too strong to be destroyed. It still draws people who add something; people who are actively involved in art, nature, anthropology, music, dance, architecture, environmentalism, and more.

Ubud is arguably the best place to use as a base if you're visiting Bali; if you're looking for culture, comfort, nature and inspiration. Ubud is surrounded by most of the things that bring people to Bali -- scenic rice fields, small villages, art and craft communities, ancient temples, Balinese culture, palaces, spectacular river gorges and best of all this can all be enjoyed from the luxurious surroundings of Villa Kalisha.

The real Ubud is under the surface though. While there are plenty of interesting things on the main streets, the things you are likely to remember with most fondness will almost certainly be found in the backstreets, courtyards and cafes and most of all through the people that you meet. Get out and walk about with an open and enquiring mind and you will find Ubud one of the most interesting and diverse places you will ever visit.