Moving to Bali isn’t just about changing where you live; it’s an opportunity to dive into a new way of life.
To make your transition as smooth as possible, here are five helpful tips. →
Tip 1: Learn the Local Culture
Bali is an island where culture and religion play a key role in daily life. Balinese people practice a unique form of Hinduism known as Agama Hindu Dharma, influencing everything from architecture to rituals and agriculture. The island is home to over 20,000 temples, each with specific religious functions. These include Pura Tirta (water temples) and Pura Segara (sea temples), which are designed to honor the gods.
The philosophy of Tri Hita Karana, meaning harmony with God, people, and nature, forms the foundation of Balinese beliefs. This is reflected in the architecture, traditions, and ceremonies marking important life events, such as birth, marriage, death, and festivals like Nyepi, Galungan, and Kuningan.
Daily offerings (sesajen) symbolize gratitude to the spirits for maintaining peace and balance on Earth. These traditions make Bali a truly unique place to experience a deeply spiritual culture.
Galungan and Kuningan Festivals
Galungan celebrates the victory of good (dharma) over evil (adharma) and marks the return of ancestral spirits to earth. Balinese people bring offerings to temples, wear traditional attire, and express gratitude for their blessings. Kuningan, held ten days after Galungan, marks the departure of ancestral spirits.
First mentioned in 882 AD, the holiday was revived by King Sri Jayakasunu to honor the victory of the god Indra over Mayadenawa, a figure symbolizing evil. Preparations begin weeks in advance, including crafting penjor—decorated bamboo poles set along streets.
Key Days Before and After Galungan:
- Tumpek Wariga (25 days before Galungan): preparing offerings for trees.
- Sugihan Jawa: cleaning homes and temples (Thursday before Galungan).
- Sugihan Bali: cleansing the body and mind (Friday before Galungan).
- Penjekeran: preparing banana offerings (3 days before Galungan).
- Penampahan: preparing meat for the feast and setting up penjor (day before Galungan).
- Manis Galungan: visiting relatives (day after Galungan).
- Kuningan: offerings and prayers at temples (10 days after Galungan).
Galungan and Kuningan in 2024 will be celebrated on September 25 and October 5. To witness the celebrations, visit temples like Tanah Lot, Uluwatu, Lempuyang, Besakih, Ulun Danu Beratan, Tirta Empul, or Penglipuran Village.
Tip 2: Choose the Right Area to Live
Kuta
Bali’s tourist hub, but expats seldom choose it due to the abundance of shops and Western restaurants. It’s noisy and bustling, ideal for those who love an active atmosphere.
Bali’s tourist hub, but expats seldom choose it due to the abundance of shops and Western restaurants. It’s noisy and bustling, ideal for those who love an active atmosphere.
Seminyak and Canggu
Seminyak is known for its restaurants, large houses, and gated villas, while Canggu is a popular expat area with luxury villas, hotels, and the island’s best dining spots.
Seminyak is known for its restaurants, large houses, and gated villas, while Canggu is a popular expat area with luxury villas, hotels, and the island’s best dining spots.
Sanur
A quiet area south of Denpasar, close to beaches and schools, popular among retirees for its serene atmosphere and affordable housing.
A quiet area south of Denpasar, close to beaches and schools, popular among retirees for its serene atmosphere and affordable housing.
Ubud
Known for its nature, positive vibes, yoga studios, and cafes, Ubud is a peaceful place to live.
Known for its nature, positive vibes, yoga studios, and cafes, Ubud is a peaceful place to live.
Uluwatu
The surfing capital, known for its stunning cliffs and beaches. You’ll find bars, restaurants, and a range of housing, from villas to affordable apartments.
The surfing capital, known for its stunning cliffs and beaches. You’ll find bars, restaurants, and a range of housing, from villas to affordable apartments.
Tip 3: Look for Passive Income Opportunities
Bali’s real estate market is steadily growing due to a booming tourism industry. The demand for villa rentals is increasing, making it an attractive business for investors. Rental income can reach up to 44.8%, with popular areas like Canggu, Ubud, Uluwatu, and Sanur experiencing high year-round demand.
Investing in off-plan villas can reduce costs and yield long-term profit. Effective management, marketing, and guest service are essential for a successful business. The villa rental market remains strong thanks to Bali’s growing tourism and ecotourism development.
Tip 4: Adjust to the Climate
Some simple tips for staying comfortable:
- Dress lightly: Wear clothes made from natural fabrics like cotton and linen to allow airflow and reflect sunlight.
- Use fans effectively: Fans create a "cool breeze," helping you feel more comfortable and saving on air conditioning.
- Plant trees for shade: Trees around your home can block sunlight and cool the space naturally.
- Use window blinds and reflective films: Blinds and sun-reflecting films reduce heat entering the home, lowering the need for air conditioning.
- Cook outdoors: Cooking outside keeps your home cooler during the hottest part of the day.
- Use solar-powered cooling devices: Solar fans and coolers can lower indoor temperatures without harming the environment.
- Ensure good ventilation: Ventilate your home in the morning and evening to let in cooler air and flush out stagnant warm air.
- Choose light-colored roofing materials: Light colors reflect sunlight, reducing indoor heat.
- Stay hydrated: Drink water regularly and add water-rich fruits to your diet.
- Create cool sleeping conditions: Use breathable bedding and cooling mattresses for a more comfortable night’s sleep.
Tip 5: Find a Social Circle
Bali is home to thousands of expats, so don’t be surprised if you meet many fellow foreigners. There are plenty of social groups and clubs you can join.
- Internations — A very active group that holds regular gatherings.
- Online forums and communities like Balipod expat forum — A great way to meet people with common interests.
- Bali expat groups on Facebook — Connect with like-minded people and find social events.
You can also easily make friends with locals if you show interest in and respect for their culture. Many are genuinely warm and kind, though those working in tourism may sometimes see you more as a client. Finding the right balance in relationships can be challenging.
In Conclusion
Moving to Bali isn’t just a change of scenery; it’s an opportunity to reinvent your lifestyle. Adaptation will be much easier if you consider the local nuances. Learning the culture helps you understand the island and its customs more deeply, choosing the right area ensures comfortable living, and passive income from property rentals can provide financial support. Don’t forget to adjust to the tropical climate and find a social circle through active expat communities—this will help you integrate into island life and find like-minded friends.
With these five tips, you’ll be well-equipped to make your move and life in Bali as comfortable as possible.