Moving to Bali as a foreigner can be a thrilling experience, but it’s important to get ready for life in Bali to ensure a smooth transition. This guide covers the essential parts of living abroad in Bali, including housing to day-to-day living.
### Accommodation in Bali
One of the first things you’ll need to arrange upon arriving in Bali is where you’ll live. The island provides a variety of housing options, from luxury villas to budget-friendly apartments. Most expats tend to opt for renting a villa as it offers more privacy and space compared to apartments.
While searching for rentals, make sure to be aware of the bali villa rentals real estate landscape and bargain your lease. Year-long leases are common among expats, and rental prices can vary greatly depending on the location. Popular expat areas include Canggu, Seminyak, and Ubud.
### Cost of Living
The cost of living in Bali can be quite affordable, based on your daily habits. Dining at local restaurants is cheap, especially if you stick to local warungs, while Western-style restaurants can be pricier. Groceries tends to be cost-effective, if you purchase seasonal fruits and vegetables.
Household bills such as electricity, water, and internet are reasonably priced, but using AC units can drive up your energy costs. Getting around is also cheap, with scooters being the preferred mode of transport among expats. Renting or buying a scooter is economical and practical for short-distance travel.
### Health Care in Bali
The island’s medical services has made great strides over the years. You’ll find multiple hospitals with international standards, particularly in the tourist hubs like Denpasar and its surroundings. For basic medical needs, local clinics are a viable alternative, while complex health concerns may require travel to Jakarta or nearby Singapore for specialized treatment.
Many expats advise getting an extensive health insurance policy that covers emergency evacuation. Global insurance providers offer various plans for foreign residents, so it's worth comparing options to find the best coverage.
### Staying Legally in Bali
Understanding the legal requirements is crucial for bali villa rentals expats living in Bali. Most expats arrive on a tourist visa, permitting a stay of 30 to 60 days, however, for extended living, you’ll need a KITAS permit. This visa allows long-term residency, and can be renewed periodically.
Additionally, some foreigners choose to hire a visa service to help with dealing with the complex legal paperwork. Hiring a service can streamline easier and help avoid any legal issues.
### Expat Community and Lifestyle
Bali hosts a large expat community, so it’s easy to meet people and integrate into the expat culture. There are numerous expat meet-ups and events catering to expats, from yoga classes to business meet-ups. Joining these communities can help you settle in and turn your Bali life more enjoyable.
To sum up, living in Bali as an expat has its difficulties, yet with preparation and an awareness of the rules and local norms, you can thoroughly enjoy the stunning beauty of Bali and a relaxed lifestyle.