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Hayley on Holiday

The Ultimate Bali Solo Travel Guide – What You Need To Know Before You Visit Bali Alone

July 6, 2020 in Asia, Bali, Indonesia, Solo Female Travel
Enjoying the view at Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida in Bali, Indonesia

This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please read the full disclosure policy here.

As someone who’s visited Bali, Indonesia on multiple occasions (both with my family and as a solo female traveller), here is my top advice for solo travel in Bali. Keep reading to discover the best places to visit in Bali for solo travellers and the top things to do in Bali alone.

Hi, my name is Hayley and I miss Bali. But seeing as we can’t travel there right now, the next best thing (for me, anyway) is to write about it. I’ve visited Bali on several occasions and last year I stayed for a whole month (and didn’t get sick 🙌🏻). Bali will always be one of my favourite places and it’s already been the focus of quite a few blog posts. But I thought I would talk about Bali from a solo female traveller’s perspective today. With detailed information on the best places to visit, things to do in Bali alone and general travel tips, this is the only travel guide you’ll need to read before you solo travel in Bali.

Table of Contents Show
1. As someone who’s visited Bali, Indonesia on multiple occasions (both with my family and as a solo female traveller), here is my top advice for solo travel in Bali. Keep reading to discover the best places to visit in Bali for solo travellers and the top things to do in Bali alone.
2. General solo travel in Bali tips
2.1. Getting around Bali as a solo traveller
2.1.1. Arriving at the airport
2.1.2. Day to day transport
2.1.3. Travelling around Bali alone
2.2. Money tips
2.3. What to pack for solo travel in Bali
2.4. How to avoid Bali Belly on your solo trip to Bali
2.5. Is Bali safe for solo female travellers?
2.6. My final tip for solo travel in Bali
3. Best places to visit in Bali For solo travellers
3.1. Sanur
3.2. Legian
3.2.1. Here’s my guide to the best Legian bars and restaurants
3.3. Ubud
3.4. Seminyak
3.5. Canggu
4. Things to do in Bali alone
4.1. Do a day trip
4.2. Practice yoga
4.3. Go shopping
4.4. Pamper yourself
4.5. See a traditional dance performance
4.6. Take a cooking class
4.7. Eat!
4.8. Head to the beach
4.8.1. 3000 words later, you can’t deny this is a comprehensive guide to solo travel in Bali!

General solo travel in Bali tips

Firstly, I want to direct you to this post, as it covers all of my top Bali travel tips. But here are some additional tips, specifically in regards to solo travel in Bali.

Getting around Bali as a solo traveller

Arriving at the airport

You’ll undoubtedly be arriving in Bali via plane. The airport has gotten a lovely renovation in recent years (I still have fond memories of the previous airport). Nonetheless, once you step outside you will be overwhelmingly greeted by hundreds of locals holding signs that display different names. Most accommodation in Bali will offer to organise airport transport for you. I take them up on the offer as it’s the easiest option, especially when you’re arriving in a foreign country late at night. Alternatively, you can visit the taxi desk at the airport.

Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali, Indonesia

Inside Bali’s airport

Day to day transport

As for day to day transport, if you feel comfortable renting a scooter, it’s one of the most popular options. There are locals renting scooters everywhere in Bali, which shouldn’t set you back more than 60,000 IRP per day. However, if you want to hire a scooter I recommend organising an international driver’s licence before you leave your home country.

Personally, I rely on walking and Blue Bird taxis as a solo traveller in Bali. Blue Bird has an app, but I’d just walk and wait for one to appear on the main road. Once you arrive in Bali you’ll understand what I mean. The Balinese streets are overwhelmingly filled with a lovely combination of scooters, cars and taxis. Now, Blue Bird is the best company because all taxis have meters for the most affordable rate. If you hop into a different taxi, the driver may try to barter with you or “forget” to turn the meter on and no one has time for that.

Blue Bird taxi driving along the streets of Bali, Indonesia

Blue Bird Taxis

Uber and Grab are also present in Bali, but drivers are prohibited from entering many of the main tourist areas. As for public transport, the only option is the Kura-Kura public shuttle bus service. It travels between Bali’s most popular tourist attractions and destinations. I’ve never used this bus network, but I have seen them travelling around Bali.

Travelling around Bali alone

On my last solo trip to Bali, I also travelled from Kuta to Ubud and back again. In the first instance, I got my family’s driver to drive me as I wanted to stop at a few different places along the way. He’s fantastic, isn’t pushy like some drivers and speaks great English. If you’d like his details, let me know. On the other hand, from Ubud to Kuta I paid 60,000 IRP to travel on a shuttle bus with other people backpacking Bali alone. I just booked it at the travel desk outside my homestay in Ubud. If you’re a fellow budget traveller, this is a good option. 

Standing in front of the lush Tegallalang Rice Terraces near Ubud in Bali, Indonesia (solo female traveller in Bali).

Checking out the Tegallalang Rice Terraces near Ubud

Money tips

When I visit Bali, I travel with my Citibank debit card as I don’t get charged any international fees. I also predominantly use official bank ATMs. If you prefer, you can also bring cash in your local currency and change it at a money exchange. Although a few high-end restaurants have card facilities, cash is king in Bali. Tipping is also always appreciated at both restaurants and spas. 

What to pack for solo travel in Bali

As luck would have it, I’ve already written a post that highlights the 10 things I highly recommend packing for a trip to Bali. Check it out here.

Enjoying the view at Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida in Bali, Indonesia (solo travel in Bali)

You’ll find me in singlets and shorts at all times in Bali

How to avoid Bali Belly on your solo trip to Bali

We have to get real for a second because Bali Belly is a menace I am, unfortunately, all too well acquainted with. It’s essentially an upset stomach or travellers’ diarrhea that you can get while travelling around Bali. Predominantly caused by contaminated food and water, stay away from Bali’s tap water as it isn’t potable. Although experts say to not drink the ice in Bali, it’s government-regulated now and safe to drink. 

I also take Travelan before lunch and dinner in Bali and it seems to be the magic ingredient. Honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever been as excited as I was when I travelled around Bali for one month without getting sick. Life goals, friends 😂. If you do inevitably get struck down by Bali Belly, make sure you stay hydrated, take rehydration drinks (available from convenience stores) and stick to a bland diet. Bali Belly is also why I highly recommend purchasing travel insurance before your solo trip to Bali. 

Is Bali safe for solo female travellers?

This is probably one of the most commonly-asked questions when it comes to solo travel in Bali. In my option, Bali is safe for solo female travellers. Personally, I’ve never felt afraid while walking around Bali alone. On my last trip, I stayed in high traffic areas, so I felt comfortable walking to and from dinner at night in Sanur, Ubud and Legian. In saying that though, locals will try and tempt you into their stores by calling out compliments left, right and centre all day every day. A simple “no, thank you” or shake of your head and a smile usually does the trick. As I always say, trust your instincts. 

Orange, pink and fluffy cloud sunset over Legian Beach

Watching the sunset at night on Legian Beach

My final tip for solo travel in Bali

Another thing that made me feel safe in Bali was purchasing a local SIM card. I used this service through Klook and it was fantastic. Someone met me at the airport and fitted the SIM card on my phone before we departed for about $10 AUD. I just felt better knowing I was able to contact someone if something did happen. If you don’t want to take my word for it either, there are over 9000 reviews for the service on Klook.

Best places to visit in Bali For solo travellers

Okay, let’s talk about the five best places to visit in Bali for solo female travellers. 

Sanur

I have a total soft spot for Sanur and I think it’s a great place for solo travel in Bali. Located on a pretty beach, Sanur isn’t as hectic as Kuta or as hip as Seminyak. But it still offers the best of Bali, including cheap restaurants and spas. Sanur is also a great place to base yourself for a Nusa Penida day trip (I did this particular trip via GetYourGuide on my last solo trip to Bali).

I’ve previously posted about my favourite Sanur hotels. However, for fellow solo travellers, I recommend Kamboja Homestay. Firstly, the rooms are large and comfortable with private terraces. Secondly, Kamboja Homestay has a small onsite pool, cheap breakfast available daily and very friendly staff.

Sanur Beach, with palm trees, while umbrellas and sun loungers (top Bali travel tips).

Sanur’s lovely beach

Legian

Legian is an underrated destination and a great base for solo travel in Bali. The area between Kuta and Seminyak, I believe it offers the best of both worlds. I’ve stayed in Legian many times before (here’s my accommodation guide and a look at the glitzy Bali Mandira). But on my last solo trip to Bali, I spent one week at Grandmas Plus Hotel. The rooms are small, but they have everything you need as a solo traveller. The only downside is that the pool is located at a neighbouring property, but I was working remotely at the time so this didn’t phase me.

From Grandmas Hotel, I was able to walk to Jl Padma and Garlic Lane, which are lined with great restaurants. Check out Azul Beach Club for sunset drinks, Our’s for cheap Balinese cuisine and friendly staff, and Lokal for a Western-style lunch. I was nervous about dining out alone in Bali. But I don’t know what I was worried about, as the Balinese are always so friendly and welcoming. For example, I went to Our’s on a quiet night and the servers just hung out and talked to me as I waited for my meal.

Here’s my guide to the best Legian bars and restaurants

Azul Beach Club at Bali Mandira in Legian, Bali, Indonesia

The stylish Azul Beach Club in Legian

Ubud

Ubud is another one of the best places to visit in Bali for solo travellers. The mountain town (from Eat, Pray, Love fame) is a tourist hotspot. It’s also overflowing with yoga studios if that’s your thing. For food, try the nasi goreng with pork belly from Crossroad Burger (🤤), visit Waroeng Bernadette for traditional Indonesian cuisine, go to Buona Sera if you’re craving Italian and try any of the specials at White Orchid.

One of the best places to stay in Ubud for solo travellers is Donald Homestay. It’s conveniently located on Ubud’s Eat Street and the rooms are spacious and cheap. The family-run homestay also has a small pool and offers complimentary breakfast every morning. There are plenty of places to visit in Ubud if you want to keep busy on your solo trip to Bali. Popular Ubud tourist attractions include the Art Market, Monkey Forest, Ubud Palace, the Campuhan Ridge Walk and the Blanco Art Museum.

Saraswati Temple in Ubud, Bali, with a long pathway across a large lotus pond. Ubud is one of the best places to visit for solo travel in Bali.

Saraswati Temple in Ubud

Seminyak

Seminyak is one of the most popular places to stay when going to Bali alone. It’s primarily known for its shopping and contemporary bars. There are plenty of fashion and designer boutiques lining the streets in Seminyak, as well as many cool restaurants. This includes La Favela, Sea Circus, Motel Mexicola, Sisterfields… (I could go on and on). Seminyak is also known for its beach clubs and bars. Head to colourful La Plancha to watch the sunset or spend the day at Potato Head Beach Club.

Seminyak is a little bit too Melbourne-meets-Bali for my liking, as I love the more authentic Bali you find in other destinations. However, there’s no denying it’s where many millennials and solo female travellers base themselves in Bali.

Colourful bean bags and umbrellas on the beach at La Plancha in Seminyak, Bali (solo travel in Bali).

The colour explosion that is La Plancha in Seminyak

Canggu

The final destination on this list is the only place I haven’t visited as a solo traveller in Bali. But Canggu is where digital nomads seem to congregate in Bali. This means it’s home to several co-working spaces, cool street art, Instagrammable cafes and beachfront bars. 

Personally, I wouldn’t recommend visiting Amed if you’re travelling to Bali alone. This is because it’s too off the beaten path in my opinion and the only way to get around is by scooter. I would also avoid Kuta because it doesn’t offer an authentic Bali experience (a.k.a it’s overrun with drunk Aussies 💁‍♀️).

Things to do in Amed, Bali - go snorkelling at Lipah Beach

Amed is pretty, but not the best destination for solo female travellers.

Things to do in Bali alone

This is a general list of things to do in Bali alone. But more often than not, if you’re wondering what to do in Bali alone, follow my holiday routine. It usually involves food, reading by the pool, shopping and more food 😂. 

Do a day trip

Depending on where you base yourself in Bali, a day trip is the best way to see many of Bali’s natural and religious landmarks. For example, when I travelled with my driver from Kuta to Ubud, we stopped at Tegenungan Waterfall, Tirta Empul Water Palace, Pura Gunung Kawi Sebatu Temple and the Tegallalang Rice Terraces. Hiring a driver for the day is common practice in Bali and as you walk down the street, many local drivers will offer you their services.

Other day trip options include heading south to Padang Padang Beach and Uluwatu Temple, visiting Nusa Penida or the Gili Islands, or hiking up Mount Batur for sunrise. Here’s a link to a list of day trips available through GetYourGuide. However, this Full-Day Instagram Highlights Tour is a GetYourGuide Original and the most popular Bali day trip by a long shot.

Looking across to Tegenungan Waterfall in Bali, which is surrounded by lush greenery.

Tegenungan Waterfall

Practice yoga

Ubud and Seminyak are home to several yoga studios. Basically, type “yoga + Ubud” into Google and you will be overwhelmed by the results. If you enjoy yoga, I think taking a class in Bali is a great idea for multiple reasons. Primarily, it’s the perfect place to meet new people and fellow travellers.

Go shopping

I love shopping in Bali. Fortunately, it’s also one of the best things to do in Bali alone. Now, market stalls line every street in Bali. I prefer heading to fixed-price stores, as you know the price is affordable and you don’t have to barter. What can I say, I hate conflict 🤷‍♀️. My favourite fixed-price shop in Legian is Ketut’s and I try to visit every time I’m in Bali. She’s also just a lovely lady, so I’m always happy to support her and her family. Ketut sells clothing for everyone, plus luggage, accessories and homewares. Here’s the link to find her on Google Maps.

Another shop I always visit is Silverberry, as it sells high-quality but affordable sterling silver jewellery. I still wear a ring I bought there over 10 years ago, which cost me $12 AUD and is still in great condition. My go-to everyday silver earrings are also from Silverberry. I’m their biggest fan 😂.

As I mentioned, Seminyak is home to plenty of designer boutiques. But if you’d like to visit chain stores like Topshop and H&M instead, check out Beachwalk Shopping Centre in Kuta. By the way, this is also a great place to watch the sunset in Bali. There’s a deck with beach and plane-spotting views. Alternatively, if you visit Ubud, head to Ubud Art Market or walk along Monkey Forest Road, which is lined with boutiques.

Beachwalk sign in front of orange sunset over Kuta Beach in Bali (solo travel in Bali).

Beachwalk Shopping Centre is located opposite Kuta Beach.

Pamper yourself

There are spas and massage facilities everywhere in Bali. Because treatments are so affordable, you could easily get a different treatment every day of your visit. My personal favourites are facials, the cream bath treatment for your hair (it makes it silky smooth) and a hot stone massage. This is definitely the most relaxing massage option and is particularly beneficial if you have sore muscles. Two spa franchises I always return to are Carla Spa and Luna Spa, which are located across Bali. I also visited Yes Spa Bali on my most recent trip to Legian and the facilities and service were fantastic.

My only word of warning, though. I now exclusively ask for women masseuses as I had a strange encounter once with a male masseuse. It’s a fun travel story now, but I don’t think I’ll ever be that tense while getting a massage again 😳. 

See a traditional dance performance

Seeing a traditional Balinese dance performance is one of those things you have to do once in Bali. Fortunately, the aforementioned Beachwalk Shopping Centre hosts free weekly performances, which I checked out during my last visit. In Ubud, there are performances at both Ubud Palace and Cafe Lotus, which sits adjacent to Saraswati Temple. Back in Seminyak, I have heard good things about the performances at Made’s Warung.

Two dancers in traditional Balinese dress performing on a deck at Beachwalk Shopping Centre in Kuta, Bali

Traditional dance performance at Beachwalk Shopping Centre

Take a cooking class

Similar to yoga studios, there are plenty of cooking classes to choose from in Bali. Cooking classes are a great solo traveller activity and a delicious way to learn more about traditional Balinese cuisine. Here’s an affordable cooking class in a local village in Ubud and an alternative option in Kuta, which includes a visit to the local market.

Eat!

Speaking of food… one of the best things to do in Bali alone is to eat all of the delicious food. Enjoy traditional dishes like nasi goreng, mee goreng, nasi campur and gado gado. If you’re nervous about dining out alone, most restaurants have WiFi so you can always do something on your phone. Alternatively, if you happen to visit during the sports season, there will always be an AFL or NRL match to watch on the TV screens available at many bars and restaurants 😉. You may also get lucky and get chatting to the staff as I did in Legian.

Enjoying lunch at the White Orchid in Bali, Indonesia (solo traveller in Bali).

A sweaty mess waiting for my mee goreng at White Orchid in Ubud (another friendly waitress took this photo without me even asking).

Head to the beach

Whichever beach you visit, there are usually locals renting beach umbrellas and loungers for an hourly or daily rate. But I prefer to visit Legian Beach at sunset. I sit at my friend Jerry’s beach bar, talk to the regular beach sellers, see planes come into land constantly and watch the sunset over the ocean. Magic!

3000 words later, you can’t deny this is a comprehensive guide to solo travel in Bali!

But I wanted to cover all bases when it comes to travelling to Bali alone. If you’re looking for more solo travel destinations, check out this post. Furthermore, if you think anything is missing or you have additional questions about planning a solo trip to Bali, don’t hesitate to leave a comment below or send me a message on Instagram or Facebook. Enjoy Bali for me!

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.

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Comments

  1. Ruth Ashelford says

    May 22, 2022 at 12:21 pm

    Hello Hayley!!

    Loved your website and posts!!

    I have a question. I will be celebrating my birthday in Bali this year (30th June) and will be getting around as a solo female traveller.

    How would you suggest I spend the day??

    Am staying at Kamboja Homestay in Sanur.

    Looking forward to your reply.😁

    Ruth:)

    Reply
    • Hayley Simpson says

      May 22, 2022 at 4:59 pm

      Hi Ruth,

      Unfortunately, I’m not 100% sure how things are in Bali right now and what is open. But you can’t wrong spending your day at a spa and eating good food. Perhaps hiring a driver to go somewhere for the day like Ubud? All the best!

      Reply

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Hi 👋🏻. I’m Hayley, an Australian who’s been solo travelling around the world for 10 years. 40+ countries and two working holidays in Canada later, Hayley on Holiday is my one-stop resource for solo and budget travel. I hope it inspires you to take the leap and explore this wonderful world we live in.

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Places to visit in Australia: Mount Wellington in Hobart, Tasmania

The 10 Best Places to Visit Alone in Australia

This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please read the full disclosure policy here. I’m back with another solo travel-focused post today. This time, we’re talking about my favourite solo travel destinations in Australia for solo weekend getaways. Here are my recommendations for the best places to visit in Australia alone. My solo travels are not limited to overseas destinations. Yes, I’ve travelled solo across Europe and North America. But I’ve also visited many Australian cities alone as well. Don’t be daunted by solo travel in Australia, because I guarantee you can have a great time Down Under with or without a travel companion. Based on my personal experience (and wishlist), here are the best places to visit in Australia alone. Can you tell I’m a Queenslander? 😂   Note: Australia is a big country and most people will recommend hiring a vehicle to see all the best sights: from cute country towns to cosmopolitan cities. However, I chose these Australian solo travel destinations as you can visit them without hiring a car and still have an unforgettable vacation. The best places to visit in Australia for solo travellers 1. Melbourne Let’s start with my current home, Melbourne. Thanks to the immense amount of things to do and its great public transport network, I believe Melbourne is one of the best places to visit in Australia if travelling alone. However, I would recommend spending more than just a solo weekend here. Some of my favourite things to do in Melbourne include visiting St Kilda, having brunch and a browse of the boutiques in Fitzroy, spotting street art in the CBD and going for walks through the city’s many gardens. You also shouldn’t leave Melbourne without doing a trip along the Great Ocean Road. I did an organised tour a few years ago and thought it was excellent. Where to stay in Melbourne: I have a post on where to stay in Melbourne. But my parents have stayed at the Atlantis – great location, good price and comfortable beds. I also recently stayed at Space Hotel, which has dorms and private rooms. The central hostel is fantastic and has a rooftop deck, lounge and gym. I’ll be back on return visits to Melbourne for sure. Read more: Where to eat in Melbourne, free things to do and general things to do, where to take the best photos and other day trips to check out. 2. Magnetic Island This may be a surprise entry, but I had to include Magnetic Island on this list of solo weekend getaways in Australia. Located a 20-minute ferry ride from my hometown, Townsville, this is where my parents live. It’s one of the best solo travel destinations in Australia because it’s made for tourists. With public buses and two great hostels located in different bays, Magnetic Island is one of the best places to visit in Australia if you’re travelling alone. On Magnetic Island, I recommend doing the Forts Walk, seeing the sunset at Horseshoe Bay, feeding the rock wallabies at Geoffrey Bay and swimming at Alma Bay. You can get to Townsville by flying or taking the Greyhound bus from two other destinations on this list: Cairns and Airlie Beach. The bus even drops you directly at the ferry terminal – now that’s convenience 😉. Where to stay on Magnetic Island: Bungalow Bay or Base are the two hostels I mentioned. Bungalow Bay is probably my favourite though, purely because it’s located in Horseshoe Bay. Read more: Things to do on Magnetic Island, favourite photo locations and where to find koalas. 3. Sydney Ah, Melbourne’s rival and Australia’s biggest city. Sydney is another one of Australia’s best solo travel destinations. Although I think Melbourne has more things to do, Sydney does have the Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge and Bondi Beach. However, I found that it takes longer to get places in Sydney when using public transport, so be prepared. You can get the bus to Bondi and do the Bondi to Bronte Walk. Then you can hop on the train to Instagram’s favourite place: The Grounds of Alexandria. Where to stay in Sydney: Can we talk about the epic views from both Bondi Backpackers and Sydney Harbour YHA?! They’re also top-rated on Hostelworld, which is what matters most to me. Read more: Fun things to do in Sydney As you’ll see with these places to visit in Australia, I only recommend hostels for solo travellers. Read this post for my top hostel tips and check out this post for great ways to meet people when travelling alone. 4. Hobart I know Hobart isn’t the first place you think of visiting on a solo weekend getaway in Australia. But if you have the time, it’s a short flight from Melbourne and a totally different city. It’s home to beautiful architecture, Australia’s most unique museum and some delicious food. I recommend visiting Mount Wellington, getting up close to Aussie animals at Bonorong Sanctuary and wandering around Salamanca. Where to stay in Hobart: I stayed at The Pickled Frog and wouldn’t recommend staying anywhere else. They offer free day trips to MONA and Mount Wellington, and the hostel is conveniently located in the CBD. Read more: A visit to Mount Wellington, top things to do and where to eat in Hobart. 5. Cairns So Cairns is located a five-hour drive north of Townsville (the two cities have been frenemies forever). Thanks to its proximity to the Great Barrier Reef, it’s the fourth most-visited destination in Australia. Because it’s such a tourist hotspot, Cairns is also one of the best places to visit in Australia when travelling solo. The city centre is compact and easily walkable, and there are plenty of tours available. Top attractions near Cairns include Port Douglas, Daintree Rainforest, Mossman Gorge, Kuranda and Fitzroy Island. You could easily spend a week enjoying Cairns and its surrounds. Where to stay in Cairns: I’ve stayed at Gilligan’s before for a friend’s 21st and it’s […]

Lake Bled, a great day trip from Ljubljana.

My Top Picks For The 21 Best Places To Travel Alone In Europe

This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please read the full disclosure policy here. Looking for the best places to travel alone in Europe? Well, you’re in the right place. Keep scrolling to discover the best cities in Europe for solo travel and my recommendations for the safest places to travel alone in Europe. So far I’ve published posts on the best places to travel alone in Australia and the United States. Hence it’s now time to turn my attention towards Europe. Altogether, I’ve spent approximately six months travelling solo across Europe and in that time I’ve visited (and revisited) many amazing cities. So, from my personal solo travel experience, here are 21 of the best places to travel alone in Europe.  I base whether a city is a good place to visit alone in Europe on a few elements. This includes good public transport and easy navigation, hostel options, a variety of activities you can do alone and friendly locals.  Before we begin, make sure you check out these two informative guides: top tips for travelling alone in Europe and my Europe budget travel tips.  Best places to travel alone in Europe 1. Dublin I flew into Dublin after visiting family in Bristol and my initial thought was, this city is BUSY. But besides the crowds, Dublin is one of the best cities in Europe for solo travel for multiple reasons. This includes the fact you can easily walk between most attractions or catch public transport. I only caught two buses: one from the airport and the other to the train station. Dublin is also overflowing with hostels and fun things to do. I recommend doing a free walking tour (how unusual), visiting the Chester Beatty Library, having a picnic lunch in St Stephen’s Green and going on a Dublin doors excursion.  Where to stay in Dublin: Abbey Court Hostel, which has pros and cons. Pros: central location and large common area. Cons: small eight-bed dorms and tiny ensuite bathroom. Related Dublin posts: 20 things to do in Dublin and my Ireland/Northern Ireland itinerary for solo travellers. 2. Amsterdam I’ve said this before, but when I first visited Amsterdam at the ripe old age of 18, it was overwhelming. I was overwhelmed by the eccentrically-dressed locals, the smell of pot in the air and by our eye-opening adventures into the Red Light District at night. But when I returned 10 years later, it felt like I was visiting a different city entirely. Amsterdam is now firmly one of my favourite European destinations and it also happens to be one of the best places to travel alone in Europe. With friendly locals, good public transport options and many walkable districts, I highly recommend visiting Amsterdam as a solo traveller. Where to stay in Amsterdam: Generator Amsterdam, which again had pros and cons. Pros: modern facilities in a scenic park setting. Cons: expensive and located about a 30-minute walk from the city centre.  Related Amsterdam posts: My three-day guide to Amsterdam and where (and what) to eat in Amsterdam. Omg, that post makes me want a fresh stroopwafel immediately. 3. London Ah, lovely London. I don’t feel the need to live in London like so many fellow Aussies, but it’s one of my favourites cities in Europe to visit. I love that I’ve been there multiple times, yet I still have things to tick off my London bucket list. As one of the best cities in Europe for solo travel, spend your time visiting museums, having lunch at its many marketplaces, strolling through its colourful neighbourhoods and shopping along Oxford Street, of course. I also highly suggest seeing a show on the West End. I went to two matinees on my recent visit to London and my row alone was made up of multiple people seeing the musical alone. Where to stay in London: I’ve stayed at Wombats multiple times and it’s fantastic. Good common areas, kitchen facilities, an onsite bar with nightly activities, and modern rooms. I also stayed one night at Astor Victoria because it was close to the Victoria Coach Station, but it had nothing on Wombats. Related London posts: My solo traveller’s guide to London, an Oxford day trip from London and London at Christmas. 4. Copenhagen Copenhagen is definitely one of the most expensive cities to visit alone in Europe. Nevertheless, it’s a great city for solo female travellers. There are plenty of hostels to choose from, a long list of things to do and the friendliest locals. From the talkative guy behind the counter in 7/11 to the supermarket clerk, everyone politely switched to English without hesitation.  Where to stay in Copenhagen: Urban House Copenhagen by Meininger was expensive, but the dorm rooms were modern and large with plush beds. There’s also a kitchen, multiple common areas and you’re walking distance from many of Copenhagen’s main attractions. Related Copenhagen post: My budget travel guide to Copenhagen and if you’re interested in a Malmö day trip, check out this post. 5. Belfast Belfast may be one of the most surprising cities on this list of the best places to travel alone in Europe. However, I really enjoyed my weekend in the city. I did a day trip to Giant’s Causeway and the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge and spent the following day seeing the sights and joining an eye-opening political walking tour. This is my top pick for things to do in Belfast if you want to learn more about the city’s history.  Belfast isn’t the city that instantly comes to mind when thinking about the safest places to travel alone in Europe. But I felt comfortable walking around the sleepy city centre during the day and along the main street at night to get back to my hostel. I didn’t know what to expect in Belfast as I’d previously heard mixed reviews, but I highly recommend visiting if you’re travelling alone in Europe and the UK. Where to stay in Belfast: Vagabonds, a very […]

Enjoying the view at Kelingking Beach on Nusa Penida in Bali, Indonesia

The Ultimate Bali Solo Travel Guide – What You Need To Know Before You Visit Bali Alone

This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please read the full disclosure policy here. As someone who’s visited Bali, Indonesia on multiple occasions (both with my family and as a solo female traveller), here is my top advice for solo travel in Bali. Keep reading to discover the best places to visit in Bali for solo travellers and the top things to do in Bali alone. Hi, my name is Hayley and I miss Bali. But seeing as we can’t travel there right now, the next best thing (for me, anyway) is to write about it. I’ve visited Bali on several occasions and last year I stayed for a whole month (and didn’t get sick 🙌🏻). Bali will always be one of my favourite places and it’s already been the focus of quite a few blog posts. But I thought I would talk about Bali from a solo female traveller’s perspective today. With detailed information on the best places to visit, things to do in Bali alone and general travel tips, this is the only travel guide you’ll need to read before you solo travel in Bali. General solo travel in Bali tips Firstly, I want to direct you to this post, as it covers all of my top Bali travel tips. But here are some additional tips, specifically in regards to solo travel in Bali. Getting around Bali as a solo traveller Arriving at the airport You’ll undoubtedly be arriving in Bali via plane. The airport has gotten a lovely renovation in recent years (I still have fond memories of the previous airport). Nonetheless, once you step outside you will be overwhelmingly greeted by hundreds of locals holding signs that display different names. Most accommodation in Bali will offer to organise airport transport for you. I take them up on the offer as it’s the easiest option, especially when you’re arriving in a foreign country late at night. Alternatively, you can visit the taxi desk at the airport. Day to day transport As for day to day transport, if you feel comfortable renting a scooter, it’s one of the most popular options. There are locals renting scooters everywhere in Bali, which shouldn’t set you back more than 60,000 IRP per day. However, if you want to hire a scooter I recommend organising an international driver’s licence before you leave your home country. Personally, I rely on walking and Blue Bird taxis as a solo traveller in Bali. Blue Bird has an app, but I’d just walk and wait for one to appear on the main road. Once you arrive in Bali you’ll understand what I mean. The Balinese streets are overwhelmingly filled with a lovely combination of scooters, cars and taxis. Now, Blue Bird is the best company because all taxis have meters for the most affordable rate. If you hop into a different taxi, the driver may try to barter with you or “forget” to turn the meter on and no one has time for that. Uber and Grab are also present in Bali, but drivers are prohibited from entering many of the main tourist areas. As for public transport, the only option is the Kura-Kura public shuttle bus service. It travels between Bali’s most popular tourist attractions and destinations. I’ve never used this bus network, but I have seen them travelling around Bali. Travelling around Bali alone On my last solo trip to Bali, I also travelled from Kuta to Ubud and back again. In the first instance, I got my family’s driver to drive me as I wanted to stop at a few different places along the way. He’s fantastic, isn’t pushy like some drivers and speaks great English. If you’d like his details, let me know. On the other hand, from Ubud to Kuta I paid 60,000 IRP to travel on a shuttle bus with other people backpacking Bali alone. I just booked it at the travel desk outside my homestay in Ubud. If you’re a fellow budget traveller, this is a good option.  Money tips When I visit Bali, I travel with my Citibank debit card as I don’t get charged any international fees. I also predominantly use official bank ATMs. If you prefer, you can also bring cash in your local currency and change it at a money exchange. Although a few high-end restaurants have card facilities, cash is king in Bali. Tipping is also always appreciated at both restaurants and spas.  What to pack for solo travel in Bali As luck would have it, I’ve already written a post that highlights the 10 things I highly recommend packing for a trip to Bali. Check it out here. How to avoid Bali Belly on your solo trip to Bali We have to get real for a second because Bali Belly is a menace I am, unfortunately, all too well acquainted with. It’s essentially an upset stomach or travellers’ diarrhea that you can get while travelling around Bali. Predominantly caused by contaminated food and water, stay away from Bali’s tap water as it isn’t potable. Although experts say to not drink the ice in Bali, it’s government-regulated now and safe to drink.  I also take Travelan before lunch and dinner in Bali and it seems to be the magic ingredient. Honestly, I don’t think I’ve ever been as excited as I was when I travelled around Bali for one month without getting sick. Life goals, friends 😂. If you do inevitably get struck down by Bali Belly, make sure you stay hydrated, take rehydration drinks (available from convenience stores) and stick to a bland diet. Bali Belly is also why I highly recommend purchasing travel insurance before your solo trip to Bali.  Is Bali safe for solo female travellers? This is probably one of the most commonly-asked questions when it comes to solo travel in Bali. In my option, Bali is safe for solo female travellers. Personally, I’ve never felt afraid while walking around Bali alone. On my last trip, I stayed […]

Tower Bridge in London, England

My Complete Solo Traveller’s Guide to Lovely London

This post may contain affiliate links. For more information, please read the full disclosure policy here. My latest solo travel guide focuses on lovely London. Keep reading to find out where I stayed in London, solo London travel tips and the best things to do alone in London. It’s about time I wrote a guide on solo travel in London. I’ve spent nearly a month in London overall, so I’m basically a local 💁‍♀️. It’s one of my favourite cities to visit – there’s just so many cool neighbourhoods to visit and attractions to see. It’s also a great city to visit as a solo traveller. So here’s my guide to visiting London by yourself, including the best things to do alone in London. If you’ve ever wondered what to do alone in London, I have you covered. Solo London travel tips First up, here are a couple of travel tips for fellow solo travellers visiting London alone. Most importantly, be aware of your surroundings in busy places as there are pickpockets in London (like every other major city in the world). I also found I felt safe walking from the tube back to my hostel at night alone, as it was located on a busier street and there were always people around. However, I only did this on a couple of occasions. As always, do what feels right to you. All of the amazing things to do alone in London listed below are daytime activities anyway. How to get to London alone Hello, my name is Hayley and I am now a pro at travelling to London alone. So far I’ve arrived and departed from London by plane, train and bus. I’ve flown in and out of London from both Vancouver and Australia – check Skyscanner for the best flight deals. I’ve also taken the Eurostar from London to Paris and FlixBus to Bruges. Within the UK, I have taken National Express buses and the train from London as well. So yes, there are plenty of ways to get to and from London. How to get around London Public transport is fantastic in London, so take advantage. I used the tube most days and even caught a few buses. I simply relied on Google Maps to figure out which tube line or bus would take me to my destination. The best hostel in London for solo travellers In my opinion, the best hostel in London for solo travellers is Wombats City Hostel. I’ve now stayed there multiple times in a six-bed female dorm room (with an ensuite). It’s conveniently located 10 minutes from both Tower Bridge and Brick Lane in East London. The hostel is also within walking distance of two tube lines and two grocery stores. I like the large common areas at the hostel and the onsite bar. The bar hosts weekly events as well, which is the perfect place to meet other solo travellers in London. I’ve also stayed overnight at the Astor Victoria as it’s walking distance from Victoria Coach Station. Let’s just say, Wombats is 100 times better. I had to walk up seven flights of narrow stairs to my female dorm, which isn’t the easiest with a nearly 20kg suitcase. I also thought the shared bathrooms weren’t the cleanest and the common areas at Wombats are so much better.  Here are my top hostelling tips & travel essentials for fellow solo travellers Fun things to do alone in London  Here are lots and lots of things to do in London on your own. You won’t be bored in London after reading this list! 1. Walk along the Thames to see the best London attractions If you’re wondering where to go alone in London, here are several ideas. On my first day in London in 2017, I ended up walking from my hostel near Tower Bridge to Oxford Street. It was a lot of steps, but I passed so many beautiful London attractions on the way. Firstly, there’s Tower Bridge and the Tower of London. I haven’t been to the Tower of London yet, but I’ve heard it’s worthwhile. Then there’s St Paul’s Cathedral before you make it to Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament. It was pretty quiet until I got to Big Ben, which is always overflowing with tourists. Don’t forget Westminster Abbey either. On another day, I walked on the other side of the River Thames to visit some Christmas markets. This is where you’ll find the Shard, the London Eye and Shakespeare’s Globe. A final, but nonetheless awesome option, is to take a cruise along the River Thames.  2. See the Queen at Buckingham Palace Can you even say you’ve been to London if you don’t visit Buckingham Palace? It’s fortunately located in central London, so there are other things to see and do nearby. If you happen to visit in autumn like me, don’t miss seeing all the falling leaves in St James’ Park and Green Park. It’s magical! While we’re on the topic, check out my autumn packing list 😉 3. Do a free walking tour Can you believe I’ve never done a free walking tour in London? I’ve done one in like every other country in Europe, but not London. Anyway, don’t be like me and join a free walking tour. It’s one of the best things to do alone in London (and any place for that matter). 4. Go shopping along Oxford and Regent Streets Oxford and Regent Streets are hectic, no matter when you visit. But Oxford Street is home to all of my favourite English stores (a.k.a. Primark), so it’s always on my personal list of things to do alone in London. If you end up visiting London at Christmas, you also must see the Christmas decorations along Oxford and Regent Streets. While you’re in the area, head to Carnaby Street, which has more independent stores. I loved the handmade products and unique London souvenirs inside We Built This City. Here are […]

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