Bali, the famous Indonesian island, has become a favourite destination for digital nomads looking to combine work and travel. It offers a laid-back lifestyle, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant culture that attracts people from all over the world. As a digital nomad, you can enjoy the island's lush landscapes, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture while maintaining a remote work schedule.

One of the main draws of Bali for digital nomads is its relaxed lifestyle. The island is known for its laid-back atmosphere, and many digital nomads find that it's the perfect place to unwind after a long day of work. Whether you prefer to spend your evenings lounging on the beach, exploring the local nightlife, or trying out new restaurants, Bali has something to offer.

So, if you are planning to work remotely from Bali anytime soon, here are seven things you need to know about being a digital nomad in Bali.

The visa situation

To work legally in Bali as a digital nomad, you need to apply for a business visa or a social-cultural visa. The business visa allows you to stay for up to six months, and the social-cultural visa allows you to stay for up to 60 days and can be extended up to four times.

More information about the visa situation can be found here.

The cost of living

Bali is relatively cheap compared to Western countries. You can rent a private room or a shared apartment for as low as $200pp per month, and food and transportation are also affordable. However, the cost of living can vary depending on your lifestyle choices, so it's essential to budget accordingly.

WN Hotel offers coliving & coworking spaces that have been designed and created just for digital nomads, and it is located in the digital nomad hub of Bali - Kuta. 

The internet connection

Good internet is a necessity for digital nomads, and Bali has some great options. Most cafes, co-working spaces, and accommodations offer high-speed internet, and there are also some coworking spaces specifically tailored for digital nomads. However, keep in mind that the internet can be unreliable at times due to the island's infrastructure.

The areas with the best internet services are: Canggu, Kuta and Seminyak, as these are the 3 areas that digital nomads seem to have taken over in Bali. There are hundreds of cafes and co-working spaces in these areas. 

Zin Cafe, NuDay Cafe, Tribal Bali, Shary Shary, Amola’s Cafe and Koast, are just a few of the hundreds of cafes that are peaceful to work from and offer good internet service, plus good food, as an extra bonus! 

The transportation options

Bali has a range of transportation options, including taxis, motorbikes, and car rentals. Motorbikes are the most popular option for digital nomads because they are affordable and convenient. However, be aware of the traffic and road conditions, which can be challenging to navigate.

If you are on a higher budget, you could rent a private driver using the Grab app for as little as $35 for the day, and if you are 2 people, that’s less than $20 each for the day. This is ideal for days that you are taking a break from work, and exploring the island. 

The coworking spaces

Bali has a growing number of coworking spaces that cater to digital nomads. They offer high-speed internet, comfortable workspaces, and networking opportunities. Some popular coworking spaces include Hubud, Dojo Bali, and Outpost Ubud.

The cultural experience

Bali is known for its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes. Its rich cultural heritage adds another layer of intrigue to the digital nomad experience. From its stunning temples and shrines to its colourful festivals and ceremonies, Bali offers a unique window into Indonesian culture. 

As a digital nomad, take some time to explore the island's temples, beaches, and waterfalls. Engage with the locals and learn about their way of life. It's a great way to break up your workday and gain new perspectives. 

The community

Bali has a thriving digital nomad community. You'll meet people from all over the world who share your lifestyle and interests. Attend meetups and events to network and make new friends. The community is supportive and welcoming, making it easy to settle into your new home.

Conclusion

In summary, Bali offers a unique blend of tropical paradise, modern amenities, and rich cultural heritage that make it an appealing destination for digital nomads. Whether you're looking to work remotely, explore a new culture, or simply enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, Bali has something to offer. Being a digital nomad in Bali offers a unique opportunity to combine work and travel in a beautiful and culturally rich environment. By understanding the visa situation, cost of living, transportation options, coworking spaces, cultural experiences, and community, you'll be well-equipped to make the most of your time on the island.