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Living in Bali, Indonesia as a Digital Nomad

Writer: Sotirios SeridisSotirios Seridis

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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