Zoe Rae Quits Bali After Just Two Days; Heads Straight to Dubai

Zoe Rae, best known as influencer Molly‑Mae Hague’s sister, has sparked conversation after unexpectedly cutting her Bali trip short. What began as a romantic celebration for her first wedding anniversary with husband Danny Rae quickly turned into a journey to Dubai, and fans are split.

A honeymoon misfire in Bali

Zoe, 28, shared in her new YouTube vlog that despite Bali’s beautiful reputation on Instagram, something for her and Danny felt off almost immediately. She explained:

“We came here with high expectations […] lovely places to eat and beaches, and lovely gyms and coffee shops. But I don’t think the reality is shown much at all.”

The couple relocated to Uluwatu, often praised for its scenic beaches and cultural charm. Yet Zoe, who lived and travelled extensively in Southeast Asia before her military stint, felt that Bali didn’t align with their anniversary-style holiday. After just 48 hours they decided to leave early for Dubai.

Relationship, research, or lack of it?

Danny added a grounded perspective:

“You either go to travel and experience culture or you want to go away and relax.”

Zoe admitted they might not have done enough research, despite her past travel experience. Ultimately their preference was clear: a holiday that prioritised ease, luxury, and relaxation over adventure. They opted to end the trip early rather than linger in a destination that didn’t meet expectations.

Fan reaction: divided opinions

On social media platforms like X, fans have been torn. Some defended Zoe:

“I’m just home from backpacking… I agree with the Insta vs reality with Bali!!”

Others accused her of being demanding or entitled:

“Why would they waste time & money somewhere they’re not enjoying?”

These comments highlight a bigger cultural conversation: Does Bali suit everyone, or are some expectations shaped too heavily by filtered online portrayals?

Image 1: OK! Magazine

Dubai bliss and reflection

Arriving in Dubai, the couple kept their holiday high-end. They checked into the lavish Atlantis The Royal, a hotel commonly averaging £290+ per room even in low season, perfect for their milestone celebration.

Zoe hinted she’d share more in upcoming vlogs, offering insight into lifestyle expectations versus reality, a narrative that resonates with her audience but also risks controversy.

A wider influencer reality check

Unlike her sister Molly‑Mae, who famously adored Bali in 2019, Zoe’s experience is different. It speaks to a growing trend of influencers calling out destinations that don’t live up to their polished images online.

For South African travellers, especially those looking at Bali through the glossy lens of travel posts, Zoe’s honesty offers a sobering viewpoint: sometimes the picture-perfect paradise needs a reality check.

Also read: Backstage Break-In: Beyoncé’s Music Stolen Before Atlanta Shows

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Source: Daily Mail

Featured Image: Grazia