Living in Bali: the Pros & Cons

Living in Bali has become increasingly popular for digital nomads, retirees, and families seeking a tropical lifestyle. But is island living all it’s cracked up to be? This guide explores the realities of making Bali your home.

Pros of Living in Bali

Natural Beauty and Climate

Bali’s stunning landscapes range from pristine beaches to lush rice terraces and volcanic mountains. The tropical climate offers warm temperatures year-round, though the rainy season (November to March) brings frequent downpours.

Affordable Cost of Living in Bali

Your money stretches further in Bali. A comfortable villa with a private pool can cost $500-1,000 monthly, while local meals average $2-5. However, imported goods and Western comforts can quickly increase expenses.

Rich Cultural Experience

Bali’s unique Hindu culture creates a vibrant backdrop for daily life. Traditional ceremonies, ancient temples, and local customs provide endless opportunities for cultural immersion.

Thriving Expat Community

Well-established expat communities in areas like Canggu, Ubud, and Uluwatu make the transition easier for newcomers, offering social connections and practical support networks.

Cons of Living in Bali

Visa Challenges

Recent visa policy changes require regular planning. Options include the social-cultural visa (extendable up to 6 months) or business visa arrangements, but none offer simple long-term solutions without periodic exits.

Infrastructure Issues

Expect power outages, inconsistent internet (though improving), and traffic congestion. Roads can be narrow and challenging to navigate, while waste management remains problematic in many areas.

Distance from Home

Living thousands of miles from friends and family can take an emotional toll, with significant time differences complicating communication.

Housing Considerations Living in Bali

When selecting housing in Bali, prioritize:

Water supply (is there backup during dry season?)
Power backup systems for outages
Internet reliability (fiber optic availability)
Proximity to essential services
Construction quality and maintenance
Proper drainage systems for rainy season

Most expats rent rather than buy due to property ownership restrictions for foreigners. Work with reputable agents and never pay the full year upfront, despite landlord requests.

Finding Hidden Gems Living in Bali

To discover Bali beyond the tourist trail:

Rent a scooter and explore the less-developed north and west coasts
Connect with long-term expats who know the island well
Join local Facebook groups where insider tips are shared
Visit during different seasons to experience varied landscapes
Explore villages in the central mountains like Munduk or Sidemen

Education Options Living in Bali

For families with children, educational options include:

International schools (Green School, Bali Island School) offering IB or Western curricula ($8,000-25,000 annually)
National Plus schools combining Indonesian and international approaches
Homeschooling communities that are well-established in areas like Ubud
Online learning programs supplemented with local activities

Food and Beverage Scene

Bali’s culinary landscape offers remarkable variety:

Local warungs serving Balinese and Indonesian dishes at affordable prices
International restaurants catering to all dietary needs
Fresh markets selling tropical fruits, vegetables, and local specialties
Health-focused cafes abundant in expat areas
Growing availability of specialty and imported foods

Healthcare Realities Living in Bali

Healthcare requires careful planning:

BIMC and Siloam Hospitals offer international-standard care for emergencies
Comprehensive international health insurance is essential
Many expats travel to Singapore or Thailand for complex procedures
Wellness services (massage, physiotherapy, alternative medicine) are excellent and affordable

Living in Bali Like a Local

To integrate more deeply:

Learn basic Bahasa Indonesia phrases
Shop at traditional markets rather than supermarkets
Use local services and support neighborhood businesses
Respect cultural customs and dress appropriately at temples
Participate in community events and ceremonies when invited

Safety Considerations Living in Bali

Bali is generally safe, but take precautions:

Secure quality housing with proper locks and security
Be cautious with scooter travel, wear helmets, and consider a car for families
Watch for seasonal rip tides when swimming
Stay alert for petty theft in tourist areas
Follow local guidelines during natural events (volcanic activity, earthquakes)

Living in Bali offers extraordinary rewards alongside distinct challenges. By approaching island life with realistic expectations and proper preparation, you can create a balanced lifestyle in this tropical paradise.

TEN BALI PROPERTY

Contact Fuji on WhatsApp: +62 823 3284 1698

Email: info@tenbaliproperty.com

About Us

Ten Bali Property is a boutique real estate firm in Bali offering comprehensive solutions for all your property needs. Buy, Sell, or build. From custom luxury builds to strategic property investments, our expert team guides you through every step of your real estate journey.

With deep local knowledge and years of experience in the Bali property market, we understand both the opportunities and challenges of doing business in Bali. Our multilingual team ensures seamless communication, while our established network of legal experts, architects, and contractors delivers peace of mind from concept to completion.