Bali Villa Hunt: Finding the Perfect Ubud Haven for Mom!

Excited to be heading to Bali tomorrow with my mom as she embarks on her new life in this tropical paradise!  She's relocating from America and we're on the hunt for the perfect Ubud villa.  Ubud's charm and spiritual energy makes it the ideal location, but navigating the vast array of villa rental sites and verifying legitimacy is proving challenging.  Many websites offer stunning images, but ensuring safety, security, and a truly authentic Balinese experience is paramount.  We're looking for a villa that balances tranquility with convenient access to Ubud's vibrant cultural scene and lush rice paddies.  Have you recently rented a villa in Ubud?  What websites or resources did you find most reliable?  Your insights and recommendations on finding reputable villa rentals in Ubud, Bali, are greatly appreciated!  We're particularly interested in hearing about your experiences with local property managers versus larger international agencies.  Tips on spotting red flags or common scams would also be invaluable as we navigate this exciting, yet slightly daunting, process.  Any advice on negotiating prices or understanding local customs related to villa rentals would be a bonus. Let's make this relocation a smooth and unforgettable experience!