Everyone knows that Bali is a beautiful island that has a reputation for being one of the most popular destinations for digital nomads. There are plenty of hostels, hotels and Airbnb apartments available, and the weather is nice.
But do people still come to Bali and work remotely, or are they flocking to other shores in Thailand or Portugal instead?
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Is the internet slow in Bali?
The internet speed depends completely on your location and what you and other people sharing the internet are doing. Fortunately for remote workers, there are fewer people in 2022 using the internet than in 2019 so speeds are generally faster.
If you’re using a mobile phone, then yes it can be pretty slow at times, especially if you are up north where not many people are living. But if you’re using a computer or laptop and have an internet connection, then no problem! The same goes for Wi-Fi hotspots in the local cafés and restaurants.
Do nomads still drive scooters in Bali?
There is a big number of nomads who drive scooters because it’s practical and the fastest way to travel on the island. But, nomads also hire cars from local companies and even hire drivers for the day!
There are no shortages of drivers in Bali. Taxi drivers can still be seen on most streets
Is there now a remote working visa in Bali?
According to the Bali Sun, there will soon be a remote working visa in Bali that will allow digital nomads to work remotely for 5 years! The visa is said to allow digital nomads to make income online from around the world, without paying Indonesian taxes.
This digital nomad visa will help many digital nomads who are currently based in Bali on tourism visas. Currently, remote workers on tourism visas have to hop in and out of the country to renew.
This type of visa doesn’t give you permanent residency or citizenship; instead, it’s just temporary—you must leave before your time is up or risk being deported back home by Indonesian authorities who will see this as an illegal work permit violation. If you get deported it can be very hard to get back into the country at a later date.
Where do nomads live?
Digital nomads love Kuta Beach. This area has a reputation as the “it” place for digital nomads—and it’s easy enough to see why. The beachfront location and relaxed atmosphere make it a popular spot for both tourists and expats alike.
But if you want even more options, there are other great neighbourhoods like Seminyak and Kupang that offer everything from luxury villas or small houses with private pools (if your budget allows) to high-end apartments near temples or shopping malls. If you want to enjoy a buzz away from the beaches try Ubud. Ubud is my favourite place because there are many Airbnb’s and you can get to know the locals.
Is Bali safe?
Bali is generally safe for tourists, digital nomads and expats alike. There are rarely cases of violence against foreigners or locals on the island—and with good reason: it’s a beautiful place full of friendly people who love having visitors from all over the world.
But, there are some common scams in Bali:
- Drivers can take a longer route and charge more money.
- Some Blue Bird taxi’s are fake
- Locals setup fake money exchanges and charge higher rates
- People charge entrance fees outside of temples and attractions
Cost of living in Bali
The cost of living in Bali is still high, but it’s not as expensive as you would expect.
Bali has a relatively low cost of living compared to other countries such as the Maldives. The average price for rent in Bali is about $500 per month for a two-bedroom apartment and $250 for a one-bedroom apartment. Food costs can be on the higher side, especially when you are living in a touristy area.
Is it possible to make Balinese friends?
While Balinese culture is friendly, open-minded and very family-orientated at its core, many still don’t understand what makes nomads tick (or how they think). As there are currently less tourists in Bali, it’s never been easier to make local Balinese friends. Balinese people often assume that all nomads are wealthy—and this can cause some awkward situations when meeting new people, especially if the nomad isn’t rich.
That said: if you’re interested in making friends while travelling around Bali (or anywhere else), there are ways around this barrier! The first thing I recommend doing is learning some basic phrases in Indonesian before arriving in town so that you can start conversations with local natives right away; then again later when things get more serious–and maybe even introduce yourself as “my name is…”
Do people in Bali move slower?
The Balinese people are known for their slow pace of life, which is reflected in their relaxed and welcoming attitude. They are friendly and welcoming to foreigners, especially if you’re willing to participate in local rituals. In fact, many locals will take time out of their busy schedules to show you around town or introduce you to family friends they know from school.
The Balinese cultural tradition encourages children (and adults) to be more family-focused than other cultures might be. Most young couples in Bali spend several years with each other as teenagers before making any commitments towards marriage or children. When Balinese people do get married, they usually live within their families’ land.
So, is Bali still the place to be?
Bali is a place where people come for the unique combination of culture and nature, and it’s no wonder that digital nomads are flocking here again.
There are some things that may be difficult for you to adjust to if you move here from your home country, especially as the locals are all very family orientated and carry different life views. However, with time and patience, you can absorb and understand the Balinese culture, and make some Balinese friends for life!
Bali is quieter and cleaner than pre-Covid times, so it’s a great opportunity to spend some quiet time with the locals, before the flocks of nomads and tourists arrive again.
