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Bali's Ubud survives transition from art colony to renowned spa town

Carola Frentzen, dpa
Nov 9, 2026
Nov 9, 2026
0

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Charlie Chaplin once stayed here: 100 years ago, the home of the German painter Walter Spies was a meeting place for the great figures of his time. (Carola Frentzen/dpa/TNS)

Carola Frentzen/dpa/TNS

An exterior view of Studio Nyoman at the Yoga Barn, one of the leading yoga and meditation centres in Ubud. (Carola Frentzen/dpa/TNS)

Carola Frentzen/dpa/TNS

The Balinese are renowned for their hospitality, while at the same time keeping their traditions alive. (Carola Frentzen/dpa/TNS)

Carola Frentzen/dpa/TNS

Two long-tailed macaques can be seen in the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, in the heart of Ubud. Hundreds of monkeys live in this forest, which is popular with tourists. (Carola Frentzen/dpa/TNS)

Carola Frentzen/dpa/TNS

Ubud is popular with yogis from all over the world. (Carola Frentzen/dpa/TNS)

Carola Frentzen/dpa/TNS

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Carola Frentzen, dpa

UBUD, Bali — “Welcome home!” the DJ calls to the crowd. That's exactly what everyone here wants to hear.

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