Why Did You Move to Bali?

My fourth month here in Bali came to an end a few days ago, and I can't wait to return in January 2020. It's been an incredible journey that started with an unplanned move, driven by a significant adventure and a desire to escape the monotony of Jakarta.

A Lasting Impulse to Move

Only 10 days before my flight from Jakarta to Bali, the impulse to move hit me hard. A friend living here made the decision to leave her stagnant career behind and pursue a more fulfilling path. This was my inspiration to do the same, but for a different reason - an opening for a senior GUI Designer at a renowned software development company, Mitrais.

A Change for the Better

In 2009, I left Jakarta for Bali, bringing my wife and 9-month-old baby with me. The move was a wise decision, considering Mitrais became one of the biggest software development companies in Indonesia. Despite the company being relatively unknown, the island and its welcoming culture left an indelible mark on my life, making the transition into a new community seamless.

Lessons from Prior Travel

Before settling in Bali, I had traveled extensively in Southeast Asia. My experiences in Singapore, where I met an Indonesian and fell in love, played a crucial role in shaping my decision to relocate to Bali. The redundancy of my job in Singapore pushed me to find a new location that offered a high quality of life coupled with a low cost of living.

A Video Location in Asia

After considering Thailand and Indonesia, Bali stood out for a variety of compelling reasons. First, I found that I could rent a large villa with a pool for a lower cost than renting a room in London. Second, while Bali’s road safety might be questionable, it had fewer fatalities compared to Thailand. Bali also offered the ‘best of both worlds,’ combining a big city vibe with the tranquil beauty of smaller islands, like Java, which is just a short ferry ride away.

Creating a New Life

Bali presented a perfect opportunity for a new life, aligning with my values and lifestyle preferences. The island's natural beauty and rich cultural heritage make it an ideal place to retire and start anew. The low cost of living allowed me to relish the island's amenities and create a comfortable and warm lifestyle, even in the winter months.

A Niche Destination for Adventurers

Bali is a haven for all sorts of travelers, from party-goers to surfers, divers, and hikes enthusiasts. Each person finds their niche here, whether it's partying, surfing, diving, or hiking. The spiritual healing aspect also attracts many, making it a unique experience that combines adventure with inner peace.

Lessons from My Points

From my experiences in travel and my internal desire to retire early, Bali stood out. Its combination of affordability, safety, and cultural richness made it a dream destination. Additionally, the drive to be close to friends and the comfort of a familiar culture further solidified my decision to make Bali my new home.

This journey to Bali is a testament to the power of following one's heart and taking calculated risks to find happiness and fulfillment in life.