As a 55-year-old Australian woman travelling on my own—with a camera permanently slung over my shoulder—I’ve learned that what makes a destination “perfect” isn’t just beauty. It’s how safe I feel walking around. It’s whether I can afford to stay longer. It’s whether I can relax enough to really see a place.
That’s exactly why I fell in love with the Gili Islands.
Just off the coast of Lombok and not far from Bali, these three little islands—Gili Trawangan, Gili Air and Gili Meno—have this gentle, welcoming energy that makes solo travel feel easy.
And at this stage of my life, easy is underrated.
I Feel Safe Here — Truly Safe
One of the first things I noticed? No cars. None.
After years of navigating chaotic traffic in parts of Southeast Asia, arriving somewhere completely car-free felt like a deep exhale. On the Gilis, you walk, cycle, or hop on a little horse cart. That’s it.
As a solo woman traveller, that makes a difference. I can stroll back to my guesthouse after sunset without worrying about traffic flying past me. The islands are small enough that you quickly get your bearings. Within a day or two, I knew where my favourite café was, which path led to the quiet beach, and where the best sunset spot would be for photos.
There’s also a strong sense of community. Locals recognise you. Shop owners smile and say hello again the next day. It doesn’t feel anonymous or chaotic. It feels human.
It’s Affordable — Which Means I Can Stay Longer
Let me be honest: I don’t want to blow my retirement savings on one beach holiday.
Indonesia in general is affordable, but the Gilis hit that sweet spot where things are reasonably priced without feeling rundown or backpacker-basic (unless you want that!).
I’ve stayed in:
A lovely bungalow with a terrace perfect for morning coffee and editing photos
A small guesthouse with a pool
Clean, comfortable rooms just steps from the beach
All at prices that would barely cover a basic hotel back home in Australia.
Food is also easy on the wallet. I can have fresh grilled fish, a big plate of nasi goreng, or a smoothie bowl for far less than I’d pay in Sydney. That freedom to not constantly check prices? It makes solo travel so much more enjoyable.
As a Photographer, It’s Pure Magic
Now let’s talk about the light.
The sunsets on the Gilis are extraordinary. Every evening feels like a show—soft pink skies melting into orange, silhouettes of boats, sometimes even the outline of Mount Agung in the distance.
Snorkelling here is another highlight. I’ve photographed sea turtles gliding past in clear turquoise water. I’ve captured bicycles leaning against palm trees. Fishermen casting nets at dawn. It’s endlessly photogenic.
Because the islands are small and slow-paced, I can wander for hours with my camera without feeling rushed or unsafe. No honking horns. No pressure. Just soft sand paths and ocean air.
It’s Social — But On My Terms
One thing I appreciate at 55 is choice.
If I want company, it’s easy. Shops, yoga classes, and beachfront cafés naturally bring people together. I’ve had wonderful conversations with travellers half my age and others closer to mine. Solo travel here doesn’t feel isolating.
But if I want quiet? I can find that too.
It’s a Gentle Kind of Adventure
Compared to somewhere like Bali, which can feel overwhelming, the Gilis are soft and manageable. It’s Southeast Asia without the intensity.
I don’t feel like I have to be hyper-alert. I don’t feel exhausted by logistics. Getting there is straightforward, and once I arrive, life becomes wonderfully simple:
Morning swim.
Late breakfast.
Photography walk.
Afternoon read in the shade.
Sunset on the beach.
Repeat.
Why I’d Recommend It to Any Solo Traveller (Especially Women Over 50)
At this stage in life, I value:
Safety
Affordability
Beauty
Ease
The Gili Islands give me all four.
I never feel foolish travelling alone here. I feel capable. Relaxed. Inspired. And perhaps most importantly, I feel free.
If you’re a solo traveller wondering whether you’re “too old” to explore on your own—I promise you’re not. Pack the camera. Book the ticket. The Gili Islands are waiting.