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Healing Holidays: Jeju or Ubud? Crafting the Perfect Escape on a Budget.

11 March, 2025

If you’re seeking a healing trip to restore your mind and body, Jeju, South Korea, and Ubud, Bali, Indonesia, are two excellent destinations to consider. Both offer peaceful surroundings, stunning natural landscapes, and experiences that will help you relax and recharge. Let’s compare the two to see which one better fits your 12-million-VND budget!

1. Flight & Transportation

Flights from Vietnam to Jeju typically range from 5 to 6 million VND round trip. However, there are no direct flights, so you’ll have to transit through Seoul or Busan, which can add to your travel time. On the plus side, Jeju offers a visa-free entry for Vietnamese citizens, making the immigration process smoother. For getting around the city, Jeju has a well-developed public bus system with affordable fares, ranging from 25,000 to 50,000 VND per trip. If you need a faster option, taxis are available but tend to be pricier.

Flights from Vietnam to Ubud, Bali, are similarly priced, ranging from 4 to 6 million VND round trip, usually with a stopover in Kuala Lumpur or Jakarta. Bali’s advantage lies in its lower domestic transportation costs. However, it lacks a public bus system, so you’ll need to rent a motorbike (~150,000 to 200,000 VND per day) or take taxis to get around. If traveling in a group, taxi fares can be split, making it more economical. That said, traffic in Bali can be challenging, especially during peak hours, so allow for extra time when traveling.

2. Accommodation

When it comes to accommodation, Jeju tends to be slightly more expensive than Ubud.

Homestays and budget hotels in Jeju typically range from 600,000 to 1 million VND per night, while upscale hotels and beach resorts start at 1.5 million VND per night. Recommended areas to stay include Aewol, known for its beautiful beaches and relaxing atmosphere, and Seogwipo, which offers easy access to nature, waterfalls, and national parks.

In contrast, Ubud provides a wide range of accommodation options that emphasize a natural, resort-style experience at more reasonable prices.

Homestays and bungalows nestled in the forests can be found for as little as 500,000 to 900,000 VND per night, while resorts and 4-5-star hotels with impressive mountain views and pools start at 1.2 million VND per night.

The Ubud center is ideal for those who want to stay close to the famous markets and temples, while Tegallalang offers a peaceful escape amid stunning rice terraces.

3. Attractions & Experiences

Both Jeju and Ubud are ideal destinations for a healing trip surrounded by nature.

In Jeju, you can immerse yourself in the majestic scenery of places like Seongsan Ilchulbong Peak, known for its breathtaking sunrises, the refreshing Bijarim Forest, and the pristine Hyeopjae Beach.

For healing activities, you can enjoy beach walks, trek up Mount Hallasan, or unwind at natural hot springs. Additionally, seaside cafes and the Osulloc Green Tea Field offer tranquil spaces to relax and rejuvenate.

Ubud, on the other hand, is renowned for its rugged beauty, including the Tegallalang rice terraces, tropical rainforests like the Ubud Monkey Forest, and the majestic Tegenungan Waterfall.

Ubud’s specialty lies in its offering of deep healing practices such as yoga, meditation, and detox programs at reputable centers like Yoga Barn and Radiantly Alive.

Beyond nature, Ubud also provides a spiritual experience with ancient temples like Tirta Empul, known for its traditional cleansing rituals, and Goa Gajah, a sacred temple nestled within a cave.

4. Cuisine

Jeju boasts unique culinary delights, featuring fresh seafood, seaweed soup, and the famous Jeju black pork barbecue, offering flavorful and memorable dining experiences.

The average price for a meal at a casual restaurant ranges from 150,000 to 300,000 VND. While the cuisine is distinctive, the prices tend to be on the higher side.

In contrast, Ubud entices visitors with dishes like Kedewatan chicken rice, Jimbaran grilled fish, and smoothie bowls, catering to those who favor healthy and organic options.

Prices are generally more affordable, ranging from 100,000 to 250,000 VND per meal, especially for vegetarian and organic choices. Ubud is ideal for those seeking healthy and budget-friendly dining options.

In summary, while Jeju offers unique culinary experiences, it comes with a higher price tag. Ubud, on the other hand, provides a variety of healthy and economical dining choices.

5. Conclusion – Jeju or Ubud?

If you’re a nature lover who enjoys beach walks, light trekking, and a cooler climate, Jeju is the perfect choice. It offers a chance to immerse yourself in pristine natural surroundings and find tranquility.

However, if you’re seeking spa services, yoga, meditation, and a unique cultural experience at a more affordable price, Ubud is the better option. It provides a holistic approach to healing, catering to both your physical and spiritual needs.