I recently found myself with three days on my own in Canggu in Bali, right before a Trauma Teacher Training I was due to attend in Ubud. This child-free time was unexpected and I wasn’t quite sure what to do with this time at first. But I’m glad I settled on going to Canggu – I had a lovely relaxing time.
The last time I was in Canggu was 6 years ago, on my first-ever solo overseas holiday since becoming a mum. My daughter was with her dad in Perth for 6 days. And as I had flown her over there, I decided to carry on to Bali. It was sensational. My intention, at that time, was to recharge, lie in the sun, read, sleep, and eat. And I can confidently say, 6 years later, the intention this time around was completely the same!
It’s not the same as it was six years ago, and it has definitely grown in popularity with tourists young and old. But it is still less chaotic as Kuta and I felt safe there as a single woman traveler.
Here are my must-dos when in Canggu solo!
1. Go on a date with yourself and eat solo.
One of my fave things to do in Canggu, this time around, was to explore and dine at many of the amazing restaurants. Some of my favourite cafes and restaurants whilst I was there (and I didn’t get sick eating at any of them were), were:
2. Go to a dance class, or two.
There was a really awesome studio – The Canggu Studio – that offered yoga, boxing, pilates, barre, and more. However, the variation of dance classes was a standout for me. From Balinese dance to belly dancing, and tap dance to afro-fusion, and everything in between, the possibilities here are endless. And let’s not forget the famous Beyonce Style Dance Class designed to harness your inner Beyonce, and bring out the fierce, independent, strong, and sassy fire within you!
3. Do some yoga and meditation.
Are you into yoga and/or meditation? Well, you will be in luck because there are loads of options here. It may need to be the yoga hub that nearby Ubud has the reputation of being, but there are still loads of options. Some are:
4. Watch the sunset and have a cocktail.
There’s nothing like lying or sitting by the beach, having a cocktail (okay, I had a dragonfruit and strawberry juice, but it was still incredible), watching the kite surfers, reading a good book, and watching the sunset. This may have been a highlight for me whilst in Canggu. I also paid an extra $2 to hire a deck chair and umbrella so I could be more comfortable. Highly recommend!
5. Early morning swim at the beach.
Despite being away without your children, your body clock may still wake you up early. If this is the case, I highly recommend an early morning beach stroll and ocean dip. There are not many people around, the full heat of the day hasn’t hit yet, and it’s truly blissful. Canggu is also known for being a great surfing spot, so if that’s your thing, sign up for a lesson or go and hire a surfboard!
6. Stroll the streets and shop.
There are so many beautiful little stores that line the footpath-less streets in Canggu. It’s worth dedicating a few hours to simply stroll and browse. There is also the Love Anchor Canggu Bazaar; one of Bali’s most iconic markets in the heart of Canggu that runs seven days a week. Definitely worth a visit, and a great pace to find a present to bring back to the kids who will probably be expecting one on your return!
7. Dating.
Last but not least, my sources (aka my Balinese driver) tells me that many single people come here to meet and connect with people and go dating. I didn’t do that myself, obviously (#marriednow) but apparently it’s very popular and the Tinder action is busy!
Overall, I highly recommend this little Canggu solo getaway. And if you have the resources and it aligns, even though it can be scary going on your first trip alone, I’m sure you’ll have the best time ❤️
P.S. DID YOU KNOW?
Thrive Tribe – the global membership experience for single mothers – will be opening again for enrolment later this year. Join the waitlist here.
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