Bali is a place that many digital nomads have set up base in. Digital nomads spend at least a few months of the year abroad. They change destinations frequently and earn a living while working online. A vibrant atmosphere of the famed Indonesian island, known as Island of the Gods, is making its way to the top. What are the main reasons of this trend and what you should know before coming there? This article provides a simple brief for those looking to try Bali as their next destination to set up a base in.
What to Do Before Coming to Bali
In case you’re just starting out on your nomad experience, you will need some time to prepare. Leaving your home country overnight is very adventurous and definitely an interesting experience. But not for you who want to make a business.
#Sell or Rent
Minimalism is something you will learn to master after a few nomadic experiences. It might seem impossible to pack all your items into one or two bags, the reality is it’s actually the contrary. However, keep in mind that there are some items that might be difficult to purchase abroad. It is better for you to take them from your homeland; These may include Western-sized clothes, some brands of electronics, medicines, among others.
#Visa
Indonesian visa is a hassle so be ready for that. In general, there are few visa options that might be used by digital nomads.
- 30 Days’ Free Entry
In total, citizens from around 169 countries can enter Indonesia with no visa for a period of 30 days. It cannot be extended or converted into any other visa and visitors must leave the country after 30 days.
- 60 Days VOA
Visa on arrival is valid for 30 days and can be extended for another 30 days. Note that 30 days does not equal one month and in order not to overstay your visa, you should carefully count the days. After this, foreigners must leave the country for a so-called visa run.
- Social-cultural Visa
The social-cultural visa allows you to enter the country for 2 months initially and can be later extended for additional 30 days in total of 4 times. To do so, a letter of invitation/sponsorship from a sponsor in Indonesia is required. This can be either Indonesian individual or a company.
#Where to Stay
Bali is quite a small island in terms of size. However, it still provides many opportunities where to stay, unless you are a digital nomad. While tourists can stay basically anywhere, digital nomad limited by a high-quality Internet connection, are not so lucky. Even though the internet connection has stabilized and improved dramatically in recent years, there are still only 2 major places preferred my digital nomads – Ubud and Canggu.
Advantages
Famous co-working spaces Dojo in Canggu and Hubud in Ubud honor their reputation. Fast internet connection, leisure time activities, and chill-out zones are essential parts of these hubs. However, the biggest value of the membership comes in a form of innovative, creative, and competitive digital professionals who you will meet there. This positive and friendly co-working atmosphere will inspire you to learn new ways to boost your personal development. Also, this new atmosphere could motivate you to continue on your way to success.
Disadvantages
Both the fame of the places and spectacular nature around attract not only digital nomads. Ubud and Canggu are one of the most popular tourist places in Bali, which also makes them major tourist traps. Here you can see the real difference between tourist and local prices and the way some locals try to scam tourists. Nevertheless, speaking at least basic Indonesian (which is one of the easiest in the world) or living in the area for a longer period of time will help you avoid these situations. Observing the locals’ way of living is the best thing you can do at the beginning of your stay.
Digital Nomads Budget
If you ask 100 people about their life in Bali, you will most probably get 100 different answers. Some digital nomads say you can live in Bali on a very tight budget, others believe that Bali is one of the more expensive places to live—and both answers are actually correct.
Western amenities are available in most of the shops. Yoga lessons; You can find vegetarian, vegan, or even raw meals on a majority of menus, but the price will be doubled or tripled compared to local dishes, products, and services.
Be aware that the temptation is everywhere, and the fact that you will become rich overnight (generally you will be able to afford more than in your home country, thanks to the developing Indonesian economy) will make your ability to resist very futile. “The more you make, the more you spend” is a typical Balinese reality. Thus, if you want to come to Bali to save some money, brace yourself because you will find it hard to do that here.
Feel free to contact us if you have something on your mind if you are planning to come to Bali. Our team of professionals will be happy to assist.
