I recently visited Bali for the second time, an experience that was even more enriching than my previous visit. The first time was many years ago with my friends, filled with laughter and memorable adventures, but this time I took the opportunity to embrace solitude and self-discovery, staying for a full three weeks (2-24 Nov). This trip was not just a vacation; it was my dedicated sports retreat where I could immerse myself in my favorite activities: playing Pickleball, Padel, and Golf. After years of honing my skills in Golf and enjoying the fast-paced nature of Pickleball for several months, I decided to venture into Padel, a racquet sport that I found it incredibly enjoyable and exhilarating. To enhance my skills further, I booked Padel training sessions in Ubud, where the stunning scenery and tranquil atmosphere provided the perfect backdrop for improving my gameplay and connecting with fellow enthusiasts.
My journey started in Phuket, where I live. Nestled along the stunning coastline, Phuket is not just a tropical paradise, but also the gateway for my adventures. Air Asia offers a direct flight from Phuket to Bali, making it very convenient for me and sparking excitement about my upcoming trip. I booked an apartment in Ubud through Airbnb, the place is called “Lantern”, seeking a perfect blend of comfort and local charm. I chose Ubud because I loved my last visit, a memorable experience filled with vibrant culture and breathtaking scenery. I enjoyed the local culture that Ubud offers, from traditional Balinese dances to bustling art markets showcasing handmade crafts. Growing up in the countryside of northern Thailand, surrounded by mountains, rivers, and rice fields, Ubud reminds me of my childhood. The soothing sounds of nature and the warmth of the local community create an inviting atmosphere that makes me feel at home.
After arriving late at night, I eagerly anticipated my first Padel training session the following day. The moment I stepped into the club, I was truly amazed by the facilities and ambiance; I couldn’t help but wish we had something similar in Phuket to enjoy. The club I had chosen is called “Rodri Ovide Padel Academy,” a recently opened and stylish Padel club nestled in the heart of Ubud. This impressive establishment boasts four meticulously maintained courts, a relaxing swimming pool, a modern gym, a soothing sauna, and an invigorating ice bath that promises to rejuvenate tired muscles. To top it all off, there is a restaurant that serves an array of delicious dishes, enhancing the overall experience for athletes and visitors alike, making it a perfect destination for both training and relaxation.
I trained for 12 hours during my 3 weeks stay and I enjoyed it very much, immersing myself in the process and discovering new techniques that enhanced my understanding. The sense of accomplishment I felt after overcoming various challenges was truly rewarding, and it motivated me to push my limits even further. I would return again to continue improving my skills, eager to learn more and refine my abilities, knowing that each session would bring new insights and experiences that would only serve to elevate my performance.
I would highly recommend you to come here if you play Padel or want to do some training sessions, as this facility offers a vibrant atmosphere that truly enhances your experience. All the coaches are very professional, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to help you improve your skills, whether you’re a beginner or looking to elevate your game to the next level. Furthermore, the community here is welcoming and supportive, making it easy to connect with fellow players who share your passion for the sport.
Apart from training Padel three days a week, I also went to the gym 3-4 times weekly to stay fit. I found a great gym called “Raw Gym Ubud,” close to my place. This gym has modern equipment and a lively atmosphere that makes workouts enjoyable. It also includes a sauna and an ice bath in the membership, helping me recover after intense sessions. After workouts, I often enjoyed a delicious coffee at the café inside the gym, where I could relax. They serve food too, but I didn’t try any during my visits; the menu looked tempting. Surrounded by lush greenery, the café offered a refreshing and serene environment, leaving me rejuvenated after exercising. The mix of fitness, relaxation, and a welcoming atmosphere made every visit to “Raw Gym Ubud” a delightful experience I looked forward to each week.
I love Balinese food for its tasty mix of flavors and textures. As a Thai person, I connect with the culinary traditions here, especially since both Thai and Indonesian cultures value rice as a staple. This connection helps me adjust to life in Bali, where the lively food scene features both traditional dishes and creative new takes that showcase the island’s heritage. The fresh ingredients, fragrant spices, and shared meals create a friendly atmosphere that reminds me of home, making my eating experiences enjoyable. I went to the fancy restaurant a few times, where the atmosphere was nice and the service good, but I preferred eating at a small food shop on a busy street where locals usually eat because it felt more authentic. This cozy spot was filled with the great smell of freshly cooked food, and I enjoyed watching the locals laugh and share stories over their meals. The lively atmosphere and tasty, home-cooked dishes made each visit feel like a true culinary adventure, highlighting the local culture through the various flavors I tried.
I enjoy trying new snacks! I wanted to taste everything. Sometimes I like them, and sometimes I don’t, but it’s always worth a try. If you don’t try, you’ll never know. Here is my favorite one.
I often had breakfast at a cafe called “7AM/7PM” and stayed there for 1-2 hours afterward to learn Spanish online, helping to keep my brain active at 45! The cafe has a cozy atmosphere and offers a great selection of baked goods, cakes, and delicious coffee, which always lifts my spirits. The smell of fresh pastries fills the air, attracting customers. I enjoyed my language lessons while munching on a warm croissant, taking breaks to look around and soak in the cafe’s lively energy. Whether I was working on vocabulary or chatting online, the cheerful environment and tasty snacks made my learning experience much better.
I ate at a tourist restaurant called “Bebek Tebasari Resto” twice since it was only 5 minutes from my place. It was busy with tourists at lunchtime, and I had a good experience the first time. The food was good, my drink was great, and the view of the rice fields was stunning. I ordered grilled fish with rice and Mango shake, which I really enjoyed. On my second visit for dinner, it was quieter, but the food wasn’t great, and the drink was terrible. I ordered duck with rice but received a small portion with hardly any meat, and I ordered Pineapple shake but got a milkshake instead that had too much milk and barely any Pineapple.
I also once ate at a fine dining restaurant in Ubud town called “Honey & Smoke.” I had been eagerly anticipating the experience, as I wanted a really good steak on that particular evening. After doing some thorough research on the best places to dine in Ubud, I decided to go there based on the glowing reviews I had read. The ambiance of the place was warm and inviting, making it the perfect setting for a special occasion, whether you’re celebrating an anniversary or simply enjoying a night out with a partner or friend. I truly savored every bite of my delicious steak, which was cooked to perfection, and the accompanying wine elevated the entire experience.
I also enjoyed Balinese massage, and I usually go to the place near my apartment called “Anjani Beauty Spa,” which has quickly become my favorite relaxation spot. There is a slightly heavier woman who did a really good job with the massage; her skills are commendable, and she really knows what she is doing. Her hands work wonders, expertly kneading away tension and stress. The price was really good value for money but the place can only accommodate 2-3 people at the same time.
Last but not least, as the location of my apartment is just next to the rice field, I often watch in fascination as the farmers diligently prepare the soil to grow rice, their movements synchronized with the rhythm of nature. Seeing their hard work inspired me, and I did not hesitate to volunteer myself to help. Although I had never had any experience working in a rice field before, it did not seem that difficult for a talented person like me to take on the challenge! I stepped into the rich field, black mud, which felt cool and refreshing against my skin, and began to plant rice alongside a woman who had been working on her own all day. She seemed genuinely happy to have company and a helping hand, her smile radiating joy amidst the labor. However, I could only sustain this effort for an hour, as my back began to ache from bending over for an extended period of time, reminding me of the physical demands of farm work and the deep respect I now held for those who toil in the fields day in and day out.
I did not visit any tourist attractions because I had already experienced them all during my first visit to Bali with my friends many years ago. This time, I came to truly live and immerse myself in the culture, spending my days much like I do in Phuket, where I reside. My intention was to change my environment, meet new people, and train in Padel with a professional coach who could help refine my skills. I love Ubud because it is a unique blend of traditional lifestyle and modern influences, offering an incredible opportunity to engage with the community. Here, I can spend my mornings helping farmers grow rice in their beautiful fields, connecting with the land and its people, and then later immerse myself in the thrilling world of Padel, a rapidly growing sport that is becoming increasingly popular. This balance of physical activity and cultural engagement enriches my experience, allowing me to savor the best of both worlds.
I hope you enjoy reading it!
Pim Never Stops 