In 1964, a time when computers occupied entire rooms, the visionary Arthur C. Clarke foretold a future where portable technology would empower individuals to live and work remotely, even in exotic locales like Bali. His prediction has materialized in the form of digital nomads, a growing community of individuals who have unshackled themselves from geographical constraints, embracing a lifestyle that blends work and travel.
I, too, found myself drawn to the allure of Bali, armed with a VPN and a desire to trade the monotony of my office cubicle for the captivating vistas of the Indian Ocean. This leap of faith not only elevated my quality of life but also reduced my living expenses. However, the journey was not without its lessons, and I discovered that the island of the gods has a lot to teach those willing to listen.
Moving to Bali is not solely about financial savings. While the economic advantages are undeniable, the true allure lies in the holistic enrichment of life. Amidst the island’s idyllic beauty, I experienced an unexpected surge in productivity. The shift to a novel environment, where artificial lighting was replaced by the warm embrace of natural sunshine, coupled with daily walks to work, the refreshing taste of coconuts, and the abundance of fresh seafood and fruit, collectively ignited my creativity. I felt as if my potential was unlocked, and anything was possible.
However, this newfound potential hinges on self-discipline. The daily temptations of Bali are plentiful and alluring. Resisting the siren call of surfing, diving, or exploring ancient Hindu temples on a scooter requires a strong will. The island offers a multitude of diversions that can easily derail productivity. Yet, among the many perks of living in Bali, immersing oneself in Balinese culture stands out as the most rewarding. The "Island of the Gods" proved to be one of the most welcoming places I have lived and worked during my decade of nomadic existence. The keyword, I Moved to Bali to Live and Work for a Month: Here’s How It Went, is a statement of my adventure.
Choosing Your Balinese Base
While Wi-Fi access effectively transforms any location into a potential workspace, two areas have emerged as magnets for remote workers: Ubud and Canggu. These vibrant hubs are teeming with individuals working online, creating a palpable sense of community. However, the sheer concentration of digital nomads can sometimes feel overwhelming, with the inevitable "So, what do you do?" question becoming a frequent encounter.
Unable to decide between the artistic heart of Ubud and the coastal charm of Canggu, I opted to experience each for three weeks. Despite being separated by only an hour’s drive, the two locations offer vastly different cultural landscapes.
Canggu, with its coastline and surf breaks, pulsates with a lively energy, boasting an abundance of cafes, clubs, and bustling traffic. In contrast, Ubud, nestled in the island’s interior, is renowned for its yoga studios, spiritual retreats, and emphasis on healthy living. On a full moon night in Canggu, you might find yourself swept away by the allure of dancing, while in Ubud, a sound healing session or a water ceremony is more likely to be on the agenda. I even unintentionally transitioned to a vegetarian lifestyle during my time there, a testament to Ubud’s influence. While these are broad generalizations, both locations offer a diverse range of experiences to suit different preferences.
Ubud’s expansive real estate market provided a wider selection of villas within my budget, while Canggu’s proximity to the beach held a strong appeal. The abundance of coworking spaces in Canggu contrasted with the prevalence of temples in Ubud. Ultimately, the choice between the two comes down to personal priorities. The keyword, I Moved to Bali to Live and Work for a Month: Here’s How It Went, is all about making a choice.
Finding Your Home in Bali
Before committing to an extended stay, I highly recommend test-driving your accommodation for a few nights. Utilize a guesthouse as a temporary base and then explore potential long-term residences in person. Online listings often omit crucial details such as nearby construction noise or unpleasant odors.
I learned this lesson the hard way when the owners of my Ubud villa neglected to mention their affinity for breeding particularly loud and aggressive roosters. The Balinese roosters begin their cacophonous crowing around 3:30 a.m. and continue incessantly. Their vocalizations have been measured at 130 decibels. To put that in perspective, a Boeing 747 produces approximately 140 decibels during takeoff, and only 10 more decibels are needed to rupture a human eardrum. Suffice it to say, sleeping through their morning serenade is an impossibility.
While having a kitchen might seem like a desirable amenity, I rarely used mine for anything beyond peeling fruit. I quickly realized that I could not compete with the culinary skills of the local cooks. A delicious Balinese meal in a warung (small, family-owned restaurant) can be enjoyed for a mere $2 or $3. In Canggu, with its diverse array of culinary options, including poke bowls, sushi, brick-oven pizza, and Greek and Georgian cuisine, I eagerly anticipated dining out.
Facebook groups, rather than traditional booking websites, proved to be a treasure trove for finding long-stay villas. While the choices are enticing, and the swimming pools are alluring, it’s crucial to remain vigilant. You never know which villas come with a complimentary rooster. The keyword, I Moved to Bali to Live and Work for a Month: Here’s How It Went, is about the experience.
Setting Up Your Workspace in Bali
The idyllic image of digital nomads working poolside or on the beach, often depicted in stock photos and Instagram posts, is largely a myth.
Bali’s proximity to the equator means that both you and your laptop are likely to overheat quickly. Furthermore, the risk of sand, sunscreen, and accidental splashes damaging your income-generating device is significant. However, having a pool is undeniably beneficial when temperatures consistently hover near 90 degrees Fahrenheit and you’re too far from the coast to benefit from a cooling breeze.
Fortunately, Bali offers a wealth of cozy, open-air cafes that cater to working travelers. Many of these cafes offer tranquil views of rice paddies. However, if you frequently participate in online calls, working from your hotel or villa is generally preferable. While it might be tempting to let your colleagues back home hear the sounds of tropical birds and macaque monkeys during conference calls, this can easily backfire, especially if they are enduring a harsh winter.
Entrepreneurs and freelancers who require the fastest internet connections or access to printers may want to consider joining one of Bali’s many coworking spaces. These spaces provide opportunities to network with other freelancers and engage in the ubiquitous "So, what do you do?" conversation. While memberships can be expensive, the internet speeds are unmatched. A one-day pass can cost as much as $20, which is more than enough to cover food and drinks at a local cafe. As a writer, I preferred the anonymity and freedom of working in various cafes over the structure of a coworking space. The keyword, I Moved to Bali to Live and Work for a Month: Here’s How It Went, is about balancing work and leisure.
Navigating Bali by Scooter
Acquiring a scooter is almost essential for getting around Bali. The prospect of navigating the chaotic and congested roads can be daunting, but overcoming this fear unlocks a sense of unparalleled freedom. Passable sidewalks are a rarity on the island, making walking a less appealing option.
Driving in Bali differs significantly from driving in most Western countries. Traffic laws are often treated as suggestions rather than strict rules. Expect to encounter a constant stream of scooters weaving through traffic, often carrying multiple passengers or oversized cargo. Honking is used liberally, not necessarily to express anger but to announce your presence.
The Most Important Lesson: Embrace the Balinese Culture
Bali is undoubtedly a haven for remote workers, but its popularity means that it is becoming increasingly crowded. Tourists, honeymooners, backpackers, and digital nomads are all competing for space on the island, particularly during the high season. Many of these visitors will be navigating the roads on scooters, adding to the traffic congestion. Despite its growing popularity, Bali remains one of my top choices for living and working in Southeast Asia.
Whatever you do, avoid limiting your interactions to other remote workers. Instead, make an effort to connect with the Balinese people and learn about their culture.
Learning some Bahasa Indonesia, the archipelago’s lingua franca, greatly enhanced my interactions. While the pronunciation is relatively straightforward, I made an embarrassing mistake during my first trip to Bali, mispronouncing siang (afternoon) with a long i, transforming it into sayang (darling/sweetheart).
I unwittingly spent a week addressing taxi drivers, construction workers, and hotel staff as "sweetheart." I advise you to avoid making the same mistake. The keyword, I Moved to Bali to Live and Work for a Month: Here’s How It Went, is a guide to help others who wants to do the same.
Ultimately, living and working in Bali is a transformative experience that offers a unique blend of professional opportunities and cultural immersion. By embracing the local culture, respecting the environment, and maintaining a balance between work and leisure, you can unlock the true potential of this magical island.
