Blue-and-yellow macaw (or blue-and-gold macaw (Ara ararauna) and Green-winged macaw (or red-and-green macaw (Ara chloroptera)
An unexpected highlight of my recent trip to Bali was a visit the the Blanco Renaissance Museum in Ubud. Located in the hill top former residence of Philippine-born painter, Don Antonio Blanco, the museum is whimsical and fascinating… and doesn’t allow photography inside.
A gorgeous statue on the museum grounds
Like Paul Gauguin in French Polynesia, Blanco’s favorite subject to paint were nude local women. If you’re visiting and have young children, be aware it is impossible to explore the museum’s interior and avoid the vast collection Balinese nudes.
Palm Cockatoo
The museum is well worth visiting, with lots of paintings and mid-century media collages. But the unexpected find on the grounds is the collection of exotic birds.
White cockatoo (Cacatua alba)
Several birds add the atmosphere of the Balinese gardens, including several colorful cockatoos and a very charming wreathed hornbill. The birds are friendly and happy to pose for pictures.
Wreathed Hornbill
The museum also has a nice cafe overlooking the the Campuhan valley, where you can take in the view below.
Flower bedecked statue in the gardens of the Blanco museum
Strolling through the gardens and seeing the collection of birds is more than worth the entry fee of 80,00o rupiahs (about $6.03 USD).
Green-winged macaw or red-and-green macaw (Ara chloroptera)
If you’re looking for things to do in Ubud, I’d highly recommend checking out the Blanco Renaissance Museum. I had no expectations of it and found the whimsical tropical atmosphere delightful.
Newfound feathered friend
Blue-and-yellow macaw or blue-and-gold macaw (Ara ararauna) and Green-winged macaw or red-and-green macaw (Ara chloroptera)
Be sure to take a pic or two with the birds in the courtyard. They are highly Instagram-worthy subjects.
Maks posing with a feathered friend
The Blanco Renaissance Museum
Address: Jl. Raya Penestanan, Sayan, Ubud, Kabupaten Gianyar, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Phone: +62 361 975502