Moving to Bali
four years on the island gave us answers we never expected

We broke away from the "A4 life" (the standard 9-to-5) in Norway and moved to Bali. Not because we were unhappy at home — in fact, we loved our life in Norway very much — but because we wanted new impulses, a new culture, and fresh perspectives on what is important in life. Four years later, we are left with experiences we would never have been without. Here is the honest guide to moving to Bali.

We have lived on Bali for four years and know the island like the back of our hand. Every trip from ReadySetIsland is built on this experience — and we are happy to share it with you.
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Why we moved to Bali

We wanted to break away from the "law of Jante" and the predictable. Challenge ourselves and our thought patterns with new impulses and a new culture. That is not to say that we were unhappy in Norway — on the contrary. But sometimes it is healthy to gain new experiences to challenge your own view of the world and what is actually important.

It is important to arrive with the right mindset. You are a guest in another country and must behave accordingly. Not everyone does that on Bali — for some, it becomes a playground with unforeseen possibilities at a low cost. That rarely goes well with a culture that has deep roots in tradition and a Hindu outlook on how to behave.

The biggest surprise — the locals

What surprised us most was the local people and how happy they are — every single day. Some of them have next to nothing, yet choose to face every day with a smile on their faces and hospitality that is second to none. It becomes very surreal to read the newspaper (VG) with all the "problems" we Norwegians have.

The Balinese are genuinely concerned with karma and will help you if problems arise. There is a fundamental kindness and warmth in the culture that is difficult to put into words — but which settles in your body after a while.

Positive and negative — an honest assessment

We do not want you to make a decision to move to Bali based solely on our experiences. Seek information from many sources, arrive with an open mind, and see if you gain your own experiences. Bali can give everyone their own unique perception of what it is.

The positive:

The people are the absolute best part — especially the locals, but also very many expats who are there for the same reasons as you. Just be sure to forge friendships with people who give you energy, not those who drain it. The nice weather almost all the time is a given, but underrated. 1–2 hours away by scooter, you are in a completely different landscape — much more remote than the trendy places. The food selection is fantastic: all kinds of food from everywhere in the world, and the local restaurants are cheap and absolutely incredible. The island has good energy and karma around it.

The negative:

Trash and the burning of trash is a real problem — many locals cannot afford trash collection and don't necessarily know that it is harmful to health. Traffic can turn a 15-minute trip into a one-hour ordeal, but with "island time" and a good mood, it usually goes well. Many natural attractions charge for entry or parking — the sums are low, but the irritation is there. And then there are all the foreigners who come to act like big shots: drunken brawls, reckless scooter driving, lack of respect for local culture. They ruin the reputation for those of us who know how to behave.

Rule changes from the authorities can also happen overnight — decisions are sometimes made quickly and without the democratic process we are used to in Norway. If you have the right visa and adhere to the rules, it is rarely a problem. Corruption occurs, but it has improved. Balinese are honest people — it is usually others who try their luck.

Visa — the most important thing you need to know

Just visiting: A Visa on Arrival (VoA) for 30 days with the possibility of a 30-day extension — a total of 60 days — is enough for most.

Backpacker or in-and-out of the country: A Multiple Entry Visa is a good alternative.

Work or own a business: You need a KITAS — either through a company in Indonesia that issues a work KITAS, or through other arrangements. Always stay updated on current rules as these change regularly.

Remember that Indonesia protects local labor. Work for foreigners must typically be remote — from another country, performed while you live on Bali.

Economy and housing on Bali

Money goes fast when you are in a new place — especially in a country that is cheap enough that you allow yourself things you wouldn't in Norway. Many small sums become large sums in the end.

An okay room can be rented for 500 USD per month, but for a nice apartment or a house of near-Norwegian standard, you often have to reach 1,000–2,000 USD. Rent is often paid one year in advance — it gives a better price, but requires that you are sure of the area you choose. It is also possible to pay month by month at a slightly higher price.

Find housing through Facebook groups for expats on Bali — it is used more than you think and works well. Test different areas for 1–2 months before you sign a longer contract.

Social life as an expat

Social life on Bali has far more possibilities than in Norway — primarily because the weather removes limitations. People are out, active, and curious. It costs less than in Norway and those who have moved to the other side of the world are open to new acquaintances.

A challenge if you are only there for a short time: people on Bali are used to people coming and going, and not all expats bother to invest energy in those who are "only" going to be there for a few months. They prefer to make good connections with people who are staying.

Typical activities: beach clubs, beach trips, meeting at home, scooter trips to new areas with waterfalls, cafes, and restaurants. Most of the normal social life you know from Norway — just with better weather and lower prices.

What we missed from Norway

That is the question we were asked by Norwegian friends, quite often. We didn't really miss too much — but brown cheese, Norwegian taco, fresher air, and colder weather (at times) ended up at the top of the list. It is not every day that it is great to be sweating all the time.

Which area is right for you?

Bali is suitable for everyone — but you have to choose the right part of the island for you and your situation.

Canggu / Seseh: Young expats who want everything accessible — surfing, cafes, nightlife, and digital nomads.

Umalas / Sanur: Families with children. Quiet, safe, and practical.

Uluwatu: Those who want a lot accessible, but not as busy as Canggu. Spectacular nature and surfing.

Ubud: Those who love culture, yoga, and the authentic Bali.

Lovina / North Bali: Those who want to live more like the locals — 60-120 minutes from central areas, but a completely different world.

Lombok: For those who want Bali as it was 10–15 years ago — quieter, more affordable, and more authentic.

Feel free to test 1–2 months in different areas before you decide on something permanent. That is well-invested time.

Remember travel insurance. If you are going to live on Bali for a longer period, ensure that the insurance covers the entire stay. There are far too many tragic stories about expats who did not prioritize this — and hospital bills are very expensive.

Are you going to visit Bali before you make the decision to move? We set up customized trips where you can explore different areas — from Canggu to Ubud and Lovina — on one trip.
See all package tours from 1,790 USD →