I'm writing this down for my future self, a personal log to remember my first solo trip. Honestly, I don't really care if you're reading this - it's not a travel guide, so feel free to go away. This trip wasn't about 'finding myself' or any of that cliché stuff. For me, it was simply about freedom: the freedom to go where I wanted, do what I wanted, and see if I could handle it all on my own. And, of course, freedom to meet new people, make new friends and share experiences with like-minded travelers. I remember the countless hostel conversations, the shared meals, the impromptu day trips, and the laughter we shared together. It was incredible to see how easily we could connect with each other, even if we were from different parts of the world. The whole adventure kicked off on March 1st, 2025, when I landed in Bali.
Uluwatu
I started in Uluwatu and checked into Lay Day Uluwatu. I spent my time visiting beaches, including Uluwatu Beach, Dreamland, Melasti Beach, Pandawa Beach, and Green Bowl Beach.
For food, I went to Suka Espresso and Nourish. I also went to Single Fin for sunset. Of course, I couldn't leave without bouldering at Klimb Uluwatu.
Uluwatu felt like a small surfer town. I met some great people and it was a good start to the trip, but it was time to move on. Penida was next.
Nusa Penida
I took a ferry to Nusa Penida and stayed at Lushy Nusa Penida. I ended up extending my stay. The view from Kelingking Beach was impressive. I went snorkeling (for the first time) at Manta Point with the manta rays. My personal favourite was Diamond Beach, which was practically deserted. I had the entire beach to myself, which was an incredible experience. I also went to Crystal Bay.
Nusa Penida left the strongest impression on me. I met the most interesting people there. It was my first time snorkeling at Manta Point, which was incredible. I remember backflipping into the swimming pool with random strangers and even getting lost while exploring the island. It was crazy.
Ubud
After Nusa Penida, I went to Ubud and stayed at Green Paddy Hostel. I visited the Kanto Lampo and Tibumana waterfalls. I ate pizza at L’Osteria Pizza e Cucina.
Kuta
My last stop in Bali was Kuta. I stayed at Beach Hut Hostel and tried to learn how to surf at Kuta Beach. I also went to Seminyak and Canggu. I ate at Chaska and went to Finn’s Beach Club.
Kuta was definitely the most touristy place I visited, but I have to say, the surfing was the absolute highlight. And, as was the theme for the whole trip, the people I met were amazing.
Singapore
On the way home, I had a stopover in Singapore. I saw Marina Bay Sands and went to Little India and China Town. I found Changi Airport really beautiful.
I was struck by how organized everything is in Singapore. It felt like a city where people genuinely like to follow the rules, which makes everything feel incredibly clean, nice, and efficient.
I'm only getting started
This trip wasn't some life-altering event, but it was important to me. It was a reminder of the quiet confidence that comes from navigating the world on your own terms. I found it in the small moments - the solitary scooter ride, the shared table with a stranger, the simple joy of an unplanned afternoon. It felt like a personal victory, and I can't wait to do it again.