Traveling solo as a woman is one of the most empowering experiences in the world, but it also comes with a lot of mental load. You are constantly managing logistics, navigating unfamiliar roads, keeping your guard up, and trying to avoid getting overcharged or ending up in uncomfortable situations.
While Bali is generally very welcoming for solo female travelers, my recent trip was completely transformed by one single decision: hiring a female private driver.
Enter Nyoman Sujani—an absolute “girl boss,” a devoted mom, and the secret weapon to a stress-free, deeply authentic Bali adventure. If you are planning a trip to Bali as a solo woman or even taking your family for the first time, having a trusted driver like Nyoman isn’t just a convenience—it’s gold.
The Game-Changer: Why a Female Driver Makes All the Difference
Navigating Bali’s chaotic traffic on a scooter isn’t for everyone, and hailing random transport late at night or for full-day excursions can feel exhausting. Having a dedicated driver gives you a safe space to relax between destinations.
With Nyoman, the vibe was instantly comfortable. There was zero awkwardness, zero worry about personal safety, and I could leave my daypack or market buys in her car with total peace of mind. She speaks fantastic English, so communication was completely effortless from day one—no translation apps or misunderstandings required.
Custom Day Trips & Off-the-Beaten-Path Secrets
Nyoman picks you up right from your lodging every morning, ready with a smile and a flexible plan. If you don’t feel like planning every detail yourself, she would be happy to make an itinerary for you! She knows the island inside and out and can recommend fun places to visit and interesting places to shop that are truly off the beaten path:
Waterfall Adventures & Temples: She’ll help you navigate the best times to visit iconic spots to beat the crowds and heat.
- Cultural Shows & Monkey Forest: She’ll tell you what shows are happening and when to plan on going. If you are up for a (somewhat dicey) visit to Monkey Forest (monkeys can be unpredictable), she’ll take you and pick you up.
Virgin Beach Day: If you want a peaceful escape from the busy southern beaches, she can take you out east to Virgin Beach—a quiet cove of soft sand and crystal-clear water where you can relax without the overwhelming crowds.
Art & Handicrafts: Want to shop for wood carvings, woven bags, or local art? Nyoman knows authentic local artisan spots where you can buy directly from creators rather than overpriced tourist markets.
Local Grocery Secrets: One of my favorite tips from her was hitting up local grocery stores. It’s the best and most inexpensive place to load up on authentic Indonesian snacks, herbal teas, and local spices to pack in your suitcase.
The Ultimate Insider Perk: Finding Sweet Dragonfruit
If you’ve ever bought dragonfruit in the US, you know the disappointment—it’s often bland, watery, and overpriced. In Bali, sweet, vibrant red dragonfruit is a dream, but you still need to know where to look for the freshest pick.
Nyoman took it upon herself to make sure I had fresh, perfectly sweet dragonfruit every single day of my trip. It’s those thoughtful, personal touches that make traveling with a local host so memorable.
Supporting a Family and a Village
Beyond safety and convenience, hiring Nyoman means putting your tourist dollars directly into the hands of local women and their families. Nyoman is a mother working hard to build her business, and when you hire her, you are directly supporting her household.
Even better? You’re supporting a village network. Nyoman is so popular that she gets booked out quickly, but she works closely with her trusted family relatives who fill in when her schedule is full. If you end up driving with one of her relatives, you are in equally gentle, reliable, and capable hands.
How to Book Nyoman
Are you a woman traveling solo? Definitely give Nyoman a call!
Book in Advance: Because she’s so good at what she does, her calendar fills up fast. Reach out as soon as your flight dates are set.
Book for a Full Week: While you can book single days, booking her for a week is the absolute best way to travel. It removes all daily transport stress, gives you a cohesive itinerary, and allows you to really get to know her.
Get in Touch: Click here to visit the Dedari Transport Facebook page and then contact Nyoman Sujani directly via WhatsApp at 0822-6611-3845.
By packing these essentials and considering cultural nuances, you’ll be well-prepared to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Bali. Enjoy your tropical adventure!
