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Living in Bali, Indonesia as a Digital Nomad

  • Writer: Sotirios Seridis
    Sotirios Seridis
  • Jan 29
  • 4 min read

Bali, Indonesia's "Island of the Gods," has become Southeast Asia's premier digital nomad destination, offering an unmatched blend of tropical lifestyle and modern work infrastructure. From the surf-centric coworking hubs of Canggu to the spiritual wellness centers of Ubud, the island combines fast internet, affordable living costs, and a vibrant international community. With year-round beautiful weather, countless networking opportunities, and a thriving entrepreneur ecosystem, Bali provides everything remote workers need to maintain the perfect work-life balance in paradise.



Living in Bali, Indonesia as a Digital Nomad
Living in Bali, Indonesia as a Digital Nomad





Living in Bali as a Digital Nomad


Why Choose Bali?


Natural Paradise Meets Modern Convenience

  • Perfect blend of nature and urban amenities

  • Diverse landscapes: beaches, waterfalls, rice fields, mountains

  • Adventure activities: surfing, hiking, water sports

  • Must-visit locations: Tanah Lot, Gunung Kawi Temple, Monkey Forest



Lifestyle Benefits

  • International atmosphere with large digital nomad community

  • Diverse cuisine: local Indonesian to international options

  • Vegetarian and vegan-friendly

  • Open, welcoming cultural environment

  • Budget-friendly options available

  • English widely spoken



Cultural Experience

  • Unique Hindu culture in predominantly Muslim Indonesia

  • Welcoming to all religions and backgrounds

  • Rich artistic heritage

  • Traditional ceremonies and festivals

  • Cultural workshops and classes



Practical Considerations


Transportation Challenges

  • Limited public transport infrastructure

  • Scooter rental most common (requires experience)

  • Ride-hailing apps (Go-Jek, Grab) with restricted pickup zones

  • Car rental with driver recommended for longer trips

  • Traffic congestion during peak seasons



Healthcare Considerations

  • Limited major medical facilities

  • Small clinics in residential areas

  • International health insurance recommended

  • Common issues: water sports injuries, food-related illness

  • Preventive care important







Monthly Budget Range (USD)

  • Basic: $900 (shared accommodation, local food)

  • Mid-range: $1,500 (private villa, mixed dining)

  • Luxury: $2,200+ (upscale villa, frequent dining out)


Monthly Expenses Breakdown

  • Accommodation:

    • Airbnb: $49/night average

    • Studio: $165/night

    • Long-term rentals: $300-1,300/month

  • Utilities: $100

  • Groceries: $64

  • Dining/Drinks: $250-700

  • Transport: $50-770

  • Activities: $20-200 per activity






Best Neighborhoods to Stay In Bali, Indonesia


Ubud: Perfect for wellness enthusiasts

  • Surrounded by rice fields

  • Spiritual and yoga retreats

  • Art galleries and workshops

  • Traditional markets

  • Peaceful atmosphere



Canggu: Digital nomad hotspot

  • Trendy cafes and restaurants

  • Beach access

  • Rice field views

  • Multiple coworking spaces

  • Active expat community



Seminyak: Upscale urban experience

  • Premium shopping

  • Gourmet restaurants

  • Vibrant nightlife

  • Beautiful sunset spots

  • Luxury accommodations



Uluwatu: Luxury and serenity

  • World-class surfing

  • Cliff-top bars

  • High-end resorts

  • Close to seafood hub Jimbaran

  • Stunning ocean views









How to Find Short-Term and Long-Term Accommodation in Bali


Short-Term Options


  • Airbnb: Best for private villas and budget options

  • Booking.com/Traveloka/Agoda: Hotel and serviced villas



Long-Term Solutions


  • Online Platforms:

  • Facebook Groups:

    • Bali Housing and Accommodation

    • Bali Long Term Visa Rentals

    • Area-specific groups (Canggu/Ubud)







Best Coworking Spaces in Bali, Indonesia



Best Coworking Spaces in Canggu


  1. Outpost Canggu

    Locations in Canggu, Ubud, and Ubud Penestanan Best for: Community events and networking

  2. Dojo Bali

    Location: Jl. Batu Mejan No.88, Canggu

    Best for: Tech startups and entrepreneurs

  3. District Canggu

    Location: Jl. Padang Linjong No.88, Canggu

    Best for: Creative professionals



Best Coworking Spaces in Ubud



  1. Outpost Ubud

    Location: Jl. Raya Nyuh Bojog, Ubud

    Best for: Wellness-focused remote workers

  2. Beluna

    Location: Jl. Subak Sok Wayah Jl. Raya Ubud

    Best for: Quiet, focused work

  3. Hubud

    Location: Jl. Monkey Forest No.88, Ubud

    Best for: Digital nomad mentoring and skill-sharing







Work-Friendly Cafes in Bali, Indonesia



Best Work-Friendly Cafes in Canggu


  1. Zin Cafe

    Location: Jl. Nelayan No.78F, Canggu Best for: Open-air workspace across four floors

  2. Crate Cafe

    Location: Jl. Canggu Padang Linjong No.49F, Canggu Best for: Large food portions


  3. Satu Satu

    Location: Jl. Pantai Berawa No.36, Tibubeneng Best for: Specialty Balinese coffee


Best Work-Friendly Cafes in Ubud



  1. Clear Cafe

    Location: Jl. Hanoman No.8, Ubud Best for: Organic menu options

  2. Seniman Coffee

    Location: Jl. Sriwedari No.5, Ubud Best for: Artisanal coffee

  3. Kismet Restaurant & Lounge Location: Jl. Goutama Selatan, Ubud Best for: International Menu









Final Thoughts on Living in Bali as a Digital Nomad


It comes as no surprise that Bali has the largest digital nomad community in the world. Living in Bali as a digital nomad is an experience, unlike any other city in Southeast Asia. It's a multi-faceted island with plenty to offer and a lot to discover, so you'll never get bored while you stay. With good weather and amazing beaches, Bali has unique landscapes, a welcoming culture, and a delectable cuisine you cannot miss. It is great for any kind of digital nomad, both those looking for more peaceful locations or the ones who crave adventures and a vibrant nightlife scene. There’s something for everyone, so don’t be shocked if you find yourself never wanting to leave this place.





Frequently Asked Questions on Living in Bali as a Digital Nomad



How reliable is the internet for remote work in Bali?


Internet infrastructure varies by location:

  • Coworking Spaces: 50-100 Mbps

  • Cafes: 20-50 Mbps

  • Home Internet: 30-70 Mbps

  • Mobile Data: 4G coverage in most areas


Best connectivity found in:

  • Established coworking spaces

  • Modern cafes

  • Newer villa complexes

  • Major tourist areas




What's the best time of year to live in Bali?


Seasonal considerations:


  • Dry Season (April-October)

    • Best working conditions

    • Lower humidity

    • Higher prices

    • More tourists


  • Wet Season (November-March)

    • Lower prices

    • Fewer tourists

    • Afternoon rains

    • Higher humidity


Peak Digital Nomad Seasons:

  • May-June: Perfect weather

  • September-October: Shoulder season

  • July-August: Busiest period



Which area in Bali is best for digital nomads?


Popular areas cater to different preferences:

  • Canggu: Digital nomad hub, beach lifestyle

    • Most coworking spaces

    • Trendy cafes

    • Active community


  • Ubud: Wellness and culture focus

    • Spiritual atmosphere

    • Nature surroundings

    • Quieter environment


  • Seminyak: Upscale living

    • Luxury amenities

    • Fine dining

    • Shopping options




 
 
 

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