There’s something about Bali that feels like a deep exhale — but this trip meant so much more to me than just sunshine and cocktails by the pool.
This was my first overseas trip without my husband in 18 years.
The last time I did anything like this, I was 22, heading to China with my parents. Since then, life has been beautifully full — marriage, three children, routines, responsibilities — and somewhere along the way, the idea of travelling without him became something that felt… out of reach.
If I’m being completely honest, even two years ago I wouldn’t have done this.
The anxiety around going overseas without him felt too big. The “what ifs,” the guilt of leaving everyone, the discomfort of stepping outside what had become my normal — it all kept me safely at home. It’s funny. I was always happy leaving the children to travel but not my husband! But over the past couple of years, I’ve done a lot of work on myself. Quiet, internal work that’s helped me build confidence, independence, and trust — in myself.
And this trip felt like a celebration of that growth.
Flying over with Virgin Australia alongside a group of five incredible friends, I felt a mix of nerves and excitement — but mostly pride. Pride that I’d allowed myself to say yes and put this trip together.
And Bali delivered in every possible way.
We stayed at the most beautiful villa — Villa Mawar — and honestly, it set the tone for the entire trip. It truly felt like a home away from home. Spacious, calm, and thoughtfully designed, it gave us the perfect balance of comfort and luxury. From the moment we arrived, you could feel how much intention had gone into every detail. This was my third trip to the Villa and I will keep going back time and time again.
The open spaces, the lush surroundings, the way indoor and outdoor living seamlessly blended together — it made slowing down feel effortless. Mornings started with coffee by the pool, afternoons melted into long chats in the sun, and evenings were filled with laughter in the shared spaces. It was exactly what a girls trip should be.
And speaking of the pool… I spent more time there than I’d like to admit — happily rotating between swims and lounging in my Okanui bikinis. There’s something about Bali heat and a great bikini that just works.
Beyond the villa, Bali gave us everything we needed — and more.
We had a couple of fun nights out that were definite highlights, including visits to Brisa Bali and Motel Mexicola. Both had such vibrant, fun energy — the kind of places where you lose track of time, laugh a little louder, and soak up every moment.
But what I loved just as much were the slower moments.
Daily massages (for around $20 — still not over that), fresh, nourishing food, Pilates, sounds healing and the simple luxury of having space — both physically and mentally — to unwind. Bali has this incredible way of encouraging you to slow down, to reconnect, and to just be.
And that’s exactly what this trip gave me.
Time to reconnect with myself, time to laugh with friends, and time to prove to myself that I can step outside my comfort zone — and not only be okay, but absolutely thrive. The trip felt light, giggly, safe and fun.
If you’re ever considering a girls trip, Bali is the perfect destination. And having the right place to stay — somewhere that feels like a sanctuary — makes all the difference.
This trip reminded me that it’s okay to take time for yourself. That growth often sits just outside your comfort zone. And that sometimes, saying yes to something that feels a little scary can end up being one of the best decisions you make.
Stay Details
Villa: Villa Mawar
Website: https://www.villamawar.com
Instagram: @villamawar
Swimwear: Okanui
Website: https://okanui.com
Instagram: @okanui
Lots of love,
Disclaimer
Okanui paid to be included in this content, however all thoughts and opinions are my own. The villa stay at Villa Mawar was a collaboration.