Bali tops the chart as a preferred destination for digital nomads, and the reason is quite simple. Not only is it an island of incredible charm and beauty with friendly people and captivating culture, but Bali also offers digital nomads amazing lifestyle, ample work resources, and affordable living. For most foreigners, Bali is simply the best country for digital nomads.
This article provides you with everything you need to know about living as a digital nomad in Bali, from places to stay to places to play and to co-working spaces. We’ve got everything covered.
WHERE TO STAY IN BALI AS A DIGITAL NOMAD
Accommodations in Bali are relatively cheaper compared to many countries. You can find places to stay in almost every part of the island, such as Canggu and Ubud. For foreigners, you can rent or buy a property in Bali but there are definitely different legal systems for these two options.
Renting Property in Bali
The simplest form for digital nomads to have a place to stay in Bali is via renting. Though simple, there are some risks involved as well. You should always understand your rights as a tenant in order to avoid any potential disputes. You could sign the leasehold agreement as a non-Bali resident which could help simplify the legal procedure.
Since the renting contract is not under the competency of the National Land Agency (BPN), digital nomads are not restricted on how long they can rent the property. The renting period can be extended but practically it often does not exceed 25 years.
Restrictions of Owning a Land for Digital Nomads in Bali
In accordance with the Indonesian Law, foreign individuals can purchase land or property for residential purposes only, provided that they hold valid residence permit: KITAS or KITAP.
The property that digital nomads in Bali buy for residential purposes is subject to a minimum value: US$ 150,000 (IDR 2 billion) for an apartment and US$ 225,000 (IDR 3 billion) for a landed house.
Foreign digital nomads are forbidden to buy property for business or investment purposes, unless they set up a PT PMA (Foreign Investment Limited Liability Company).
WHERE TO WORK IN BALI AS A DIGITAL NOMAD
There are many options for you to work in, depending on where you live. Co-working spaces are ample and can be found in many places in Bali. However, you need to choose your co-working spaces carefully as the atmosphere of your work space can affect your productivity greatly.
Cekindo offers great co-working spaces and serviced office with affordable prices, productive ambient and networking opportunities. Other than co-working spaces, Bali is not short of wonderful cafés with delicious food and coffee offering.
So, you can just basically open your laptop and start your work right away while sipping your cup of joy. Most cafés that have become the favourite spots for digital nomads in Bali can be found in Seminyak, Ubud, Sanur, and Canggu.
WHERE TO PLAY IN BALI AS A DIGITAL NOMAD
The reason many digital nomads have chosen Bali as their base to work and live is to have a balanced lifestyle. Digital nomads do not forget to play and will fit in fun, exciting or even rejuvenating activities into their schedule.
On this stunning island, digital nomads will be able to find great places for different activities, examples include diving, surfing, hiking, yoga and meditation, and cooking lessons.
If you love to immerse yourself into Balinese culture, you should definitely try the Kecak Fire Dance available in Ubud or Uluwatu. For digital nomads who are more into adventures and great escapes, you can spend your day at the nearby islands such as Nusa Penida or Nusa Lembongan.