The Ubud region in Bali is home to a decadent array of unique cultural treasures undiscovered anywhere else in the world. For a true immersion into authentic Ubud culture, a visitor should invest in Ubud accommodation that blends the best of traditional and international trappings for a superb example of Balinese hospitality. The Alila Ubud is an elegantly-appointed property that serves its guests with the contemporary amenities set within traditional interiors for a one-of-a-kind Ubud hotel experience. No visit to Ubud is complete without a tour of the iconic Blanco Renaissance museum, a cultural coalescence that takes place at the confluence of two sacred rivers. The museum captures the life of one of Bali’s most famous expats, Don Antonio Blanco, whose unique paintings that drew from a European heritage to effectively evoke Balinese subjects, made him a household name in Bali, and in fact, in the entire country. A Spaniard brought up in Manilla, who was educated in the United Sates, and later married and settled down in Indonesia, Don Blanco was Manila’s original poster child for diversity. His paintings drew from his fascination with the female form and his exquisite paintings are an intriguing mix of fantasy and erotica designed to enchant the mind and titillate the senses. The museum mansion was built to capture Don Blanco’s love for Bali and it is a true work of esoteric art in and of itself, as it is a spiritual fantasyland that employs elements from Balinese spirituality. Two winding marble staircases represent the apparent duality of the world, and three floors representing the earthly realm, the middle realm and the heavens provide a playground for gods, humans and beasts. The topmost floor rightly holds all of Don Blanco’s artwork while the second showcases his poetry. The mansion’s interiors are ornate in nature and are windowless, although a spectacular stained-glass dome draws in ample amounts of natural light. The mansion complex also boasts beautiful manicured gardens and even a gorgeous family temple contained within the complex. Visitors can marvel at the paintings hung for display, purchase some souvenirs and knick-knacks at the quaint little boutique, and later on, grab a delicious bite at the onsite café that serves a blend of exquisite European and Asian cuisine. An exquisite feast for the senses, this renaissance museum is guaranteed to mesmerize you in body, mind and soul. 
Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and intends to visit them all someday.