Have you ever dreamed of working with your laptop on the beach, surrounded by palm trees and the soothing sounds of the ocean? Then a workation in Bali is just what you want! Bali offers the perfect balance between work and relaxation, attracting digital nomads from all over the world. As a fan of tropical workplaces and workation expert, I’d love to give you the best tips to make your workation in Bali unforgettable.
Make realistic travel plans
Bali is a big island in Indonesia and there is a lot to explore. So my first tip is right away to make choices. Many travelers want to see a lot, explore multiple places or even go to different islands. Realize that you are also largely working on a workstation, so you have to find the right balance between working and traveling.
Even in 1 town or village there is plenty to explore, so don’t make the mistake of overcrowding your itinerary. That can cause disappointment and that’s a waste of such a beautiful trip. I spent 3 months in Indonesia myself, including 5 weeks in Bali, which gives you more time and allows you to visit more places. But even then you will run out of time because there is so much fun to explore.
Choose the right location in Bali
Bali has several hotspots for digital nomads, each with its own unique atmosphere. In recent years, Bali has become increasingly popular for workations and you see digital nomad cafes and coworking spaces everywhere. Internet is good almost everywhere, but it’s still Asia, so very occasionally the power goes out briefly all over the island. That’s part of being in the tropics. It can also be handy to purchase a local sim card with a data plan as a backup.
Choose the location that best suits your work style and lifestyle. These are my favorite places in Bali:
- Canggu: Known for its hip cafes and coworking spaces. Perfect for surfers and yoga enthusiasts.
- Ubud: Located among rice fields and temples, ideal for those looking for peace and inspiration.
- Uluwatu: This is a lovely place in the south that still has a relaxed atmosphere, with fine beaches and fun parties.
- Seminyak: For those who like a little more luxury and vibrant nightlife.
Still think Bali is a little too far away? Then check out inspiration for a workation destination in Europe here.
How do I find a good workplace in Bali?
Although working from a beach chair sounds tempting, it’s not really practical nor too good for your back. Fortunately, there are plenty of coworking spaces in Bali that offer fast wifi, air conditioning and a productive workspace. In addition to a good workspace, this is also a fun place to get to know other digital nomads.
- A fine coworking space in Changgu is Tropical Nomad Coworking Space. This is a fine coworking space, with a community of like-minded professionals.
- Another favorite in Changgu is Tribal Bali. Where you can stay overnight in addition to fine workplaces.
- Also workspace Destination Outpost, in Ubud and Canggu is a fine workspace with modern facilities and plenty of networking opportunities.
Ensure a good work/life balance
A workation is all about balance. Make sure you plan your work well, so that you also have enough time to enjoy all the beauty Bali has to offer. Block work hours in your calendar and stick to them, this will help you stay productive. Go for a swim or a short walk between work, this will keep your energy up. Use your days off to explore new places, such as the Tegalalang rice terraces or the waterfalls of Sekumpul.
Tip: You may want to temporarily work less during this trip so that you have more time to explore Bali. Discuss this in advance with your employer or client.
Networking and digital nomad communities in Bali
One of the biggest benefits of a workation in Bali is the chance to network with other digital nomads in addition to the wonderful weather, of course. Do you enjoy meeting other people? Then participate in events and meetups organized by coworking spaces or local communities. This can lead to new friendships, fun collaborations and business opportunities. I myself also gained several interesting contacts at parties in Bali, with whom I could spar about my business.
Health and safety in Bali
In general, Indonesia is safe. The locals are incredibly friendly and helpful. As a woman, I have traveled here mostly solo and almost always felt safe. However, I do pay very close attention to my surroundings when traveling alone, and I don’t take risks regarding my safety. Still, you should always pay attention, especially if you are going to work remotely, you should pay close attention to your valuables. After all, without a laptop and phone, it becomes difficult to work. A number of things you need to arrange well in advance:
- Travel Insurance: Make sure you have good travel insurance that covers such things as medical expenses and valuables (laptop, phone, camera).
- Vaccinations: Check which vaccinations are recommended for Bali and get the shots on time.
- Safety: Bali is generally safe, but watch your belongings and avoid remote areas after dark.
- Health: Hygiene is different than in Holland, you are more likely to get food poisoning, be careful where and what you eat. I unfortunately speak from experience and have been equally sick from food poisoning.
Discover the local culture in Bali
The many tourists make a destination like Bali less and less authentic. Therefore, don’t forget to explore the real Bali as well. Visit places that are important to locals, get to know them and maybe see if you can bring them something during your visit. Bali has a rich culture and it is important to respect it. Dress appropriately when visiting temples, show respect to locals and be environmentally conscious.
A workation in Bali can be an amazing experience that enriches you both professionally and personally. I personally found it to be a fantastic experience. With the right preparation and mindset, you can enjoy the best of both worlds: work and vacation. So grab your laptop, book your ticket and get ready for an unforgettable workation on this beautiful island!
Would you like to go to Bali with your whole company? Then contact us, we would love to help you with an unforgettable company workation in this tropical destination.
