Hi everyone:

I am a single woman in her late 20s who is going to be travelling by myself to Bali in August, and I would absolutely love any tips you could give me. I plan on staying at Sari Segara on Jimbaran Bay for at least part of the time (I'll be there for eight nights). I'd like to relax, relax, relax (is there a catch to these spa services being so ridiculously cheap???), but I'd also like to have some fun, too. Is it going to be safe for me to go out and have a few drinks? Are there usually a lot of friendly foreigners about? I'm also very concerned with budget.

Also, I have a night's layover in Singapore on the way back, so suggestions there would also be appreciated.

Thanks so much in advance!

Hi Matlock27-

Just like any other places in the world, be caution on the advances that you might be getting from the (Balinese/Indonesian) men especially since they might be aware that you're travelling alone -especially at bars when you're drinking.

Make sure you cover your knee and shoulders when visiting houses of worships (tons of them!) which you shouldn't miss!

Bali has been commercialized a lot, therefore I think the spas (or anything else for that reason) might be cheap*er* but not *a lot* cheaper than here in the States.

I missed Bali in my last trip out there six months ago, but I dream of the white sandy beaches, the palm trees, and the sweet sliced mangoes, starfruits, and pineapples that I can sample anytime I want.

Indonesians are extremely friendly with foreigners, very beautiful island with rich cultures and histories, exotic beaches, excellent food (and make sure you sample the fruits!!!).

When my sister travelled to Indonesia, she also had a layover in Singapore and stayed at the Mariott, that she thought was excellent. She used this time to catch up on her sleep after 20+ hrs of being on the plane.

Have a wonderful time

Hi there! I too am a single female traveller from Oz but am currently in England and am enjoying every minute of it

The spas are wonderful! No catch into them being cheap, the Indonesian rupiah is nearly nothing compared to the US dollar. Having said that, the Balinese do operate via US dollars. Have a wonderful massage, mani-pedicures and lovely milk baths.

As for Singapore, safety is no problem at all for a single lady. It's a very safe island with friendly people. Head to Orchard Road for shopping if anything (that's what Singapore is known for!!). Shops close at 9pm. One can easily get around via MRT (Mass Rapid Transport) and there is one from Changi Airport.

But do eat!! The food is glorious (and cheap!!). Ask your concierge for where to get local food closest to your hotel (you will most definately find one! The locals live to eat!). Only thing is to not drink their tap water as it's not that great. I would stick to bottled water.

Don't be afraid of eating at their many "hawker centres". It's not only dirt cheap but quite clean as well.

Enjoy!

These are all great tips, thanks! Are there certain spas you recommend? And/or inexpensive hotels? I'd like to stay in two different places, maybe Kuta and Jimbarin Bay? Thanks!

I had no problems on Bali. I'm single,female, and have been traveling alone since my teens...30 years. As for Singapore, check into the YMCA International House (Hotel). 1 Orchard Road Singapore 23884. At the Dhoby Ghaut MRT(subway) station...VERY central. www.ymca.org.sg I've stayed there several times and just called them a few weeks ago to make a reservation for an uncoming trip to Singapore. You get a private room with shower,toilet,sink,TV,nice closet space, and usually 2 twin beds per room,but it's a private room.Plus there's a pool on the roof. It's S$75.00 (Singapore dollars) a night, breakfast included and is just a wonderful, lively place.It's at the beginning of Orchard road away from all the busy-ness, but you can just walk the whole length od Orchard Road and drop into places of interest...or take the MRT. Buy a MRT pass at the subway station..about S$20.00.Before you leave Singapore, just go back to the ticket counter and ask to be refunded the amount you didn't use on your subway pass. They will refund the total unused portion...can't ask for much more that...you don't lose a dime! Happy travels!