My First Night in Bali: A Tale of Woe

I still remember my first night in Bali like it was yesterday. I had just stepped off the plane, exhausted from a long flight, and was eager to find a place to crash. I had booked a hostel in Kuta, but as I emerged from the airport, I was hit with a wall of noise, neon lights, and aggressive touts. I stumbled upon a hostel that looked promising, but it turned out to be a nightmare. The room was cramped, the bed was uncomfortable, and the noise from the street kept me up all night. I vowed never to make that mistake again.

Fast-forward to my current life in Bali, and I’ve learned a thing or two about finding great budget hostels. I’ve scoured the island, met fellow travelers, and tried out all sorts of places. In this post, I’ll share my top picks for budget hostels in Bali that are perfect for solo travelers like you.

Hostel Hopping in Canggu

Canggu is one of my favorite areas in Bali, and for good reason. The laid-back vibe, the stunning beaches, and the healthy food scene make it a haven for solo travelers. Here are my top picks for budget hostels in Canggu:

• Hostel Puri (Jl. Pantai Pererenan, Canggu) – IDR 150,000 (~ $10 USD) per night. This hostel is a gem, with dorm rooms that are spacious and clean, and a communal kitchen that’s perfect for cooking up a storm.
• Canggu Beach Hostel (Jl. Pantai Pererenan, Canggu) – IDR 200,000 (~ $15 USD) per night. This hostel is right on the beach, with stunning views of the Indian Ocean. The dorm rooms are comfy, and the staff is super friendly.

Both of these hostels offer a great balance of price and quality, and are perfect for solo travelers who want to meet other like-minded people. Plus, they’re located in the heart of Canggu, with plenty of restaurants, cafes, and shops nearby.

Exploring Ubud on a Shoestring

Ubud is a hub for artists, yogis, and wellness enthusiasts, and it’s a great place to find budget-friendly accommodations. Here are my top picks for budget hostels in Ubud:

• Ubud Village Hostel (Jl. Raya Ubud, Ubud) – IDR 120,000 (~ $8 USD) per night. This hostel is a hidden gem, with cozy dorm rooms and a relaxing atmosphere. The staff is super friendly, and they offer free yoga classes and meditation sessions.
• Bali EcoStay (Jl. By Pass Ngurah Rai, Ubud) – IDR 180,000 (~ $12 USD) per night. This hostel is a bit further from the action, but it’s worth it for the peaceful surroundings and the stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

Both of these hostels offer a great value for the price, and are perfect for solo travelers who want to explore Ubud on a shoestring budget.

Practical Tips for Finding Budget Hostels in Bali

Finding budget hostels in Bali can be a challenge, but here are a few practical tips to help you out:

• Use online booking platforms like Booking.com or Agoda. These platforms offer a wide range of hostels and guesthouses, and you can often find deals and discounts.
• Check out social media and review sites like Hostelworld or Hostelbookers. These sites offer honest reviews from fellow travelers, and can help you find the best hostels in Bali.
• Don’t be afraid to negotiate. Many hostels in Bali are willing to negotiate prices, especially if you’re staying for a longer period of time.
• Look for hostels with a good location. While it’s tempting to stay in a cheap hostel in a remote area, it’s often worth paying a bit more for a hostel that’s centrally located.

With these tips and my top picks, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect budget hostel in Bali for your next adventure.

FAQs

Here are a few frequently asked questions about budget hostels in Bali:

• Q: Are budget hostels in Bali safe? A: Generally, yes. Most budget hostels in Bali are safe and secure, but it’s always a good idea to take precautions and lock your door.
• Q: Can I find budget hostels in Bali that are suitable for solo female travelers? A: Yes! Many budget hostels in Bali are specifically designed for solo female travelers, and offer a safe and welcoming atmosphere.
• Q: Are budget hostels in Bali clean and well-maintained? A: Generally, yes. Most budget hostels in Bali are clean and well-maintained, but it’s always a good idea to check the hostel’s facilities and reviews before booking.