Title: Living the Digital Nomad Dream in Indonesia: My Experiences & Tips
Hello everyone! It’s Olivia here, your favorite digital nomad. Today, I’m going to share an inside scoop on my life and work in the captivating country of Indonesia, a place that has stolen my heart over the past year.
Without a doubt, Indonesia is a paradise for digital nomads like me. It offers a blend of rich culture, mouth-watering cuisine, breathtaking landscapes, and friendly people. But what about the practical aspects—cost of living, coworking spaces, internet quality, visa situations? Well, let’s dive in!
Cost of Living:
Indonesia, particularly Bali, offers a relatively low cost of living compared to many Western countries. The cost can vary depending on your lifestyle, but on average, you can live comfortably for around $1,000 to $1,500 per month. This usually covers a fully-furnished one-bedroom apartment, utilities, eating out, groceries, and transportation. My advice is to shop and eat locally to save money. Plus, you’ll get to relish the authentic Indonesian dishes!
Co-working Spaces:
The digital nomad community in Indonesia, particularly in Bali, is thriving, and there’s no shortage of coworking spaces. My favorite is Hubud in Ubud, a jungle oasis with bamboo structures, which costs around $200/month for unlimited access. Then there’s Dojo in Canggu, offering a balance of work and fun with its regular networking events, costing around $190/month. These places offer not just a desk and internet, but a community of like-minded individuals.
Internet Quality:
Reliable internet is the lifeblood of any digital nomad, and you’ll find it in Indonesia. The quality of internet can vary, but in major cities and co-working spaces, it’s typically excellent. The average speed in urban areas is about 20 Mbps, but it can go up to 100 Mbps in some coworking spaces. If you’re venturing into more remote areas, I recommend getting a local SIM card for data backup.
Visa Situation:
The visa situation is quite straightforward for digital nomads. You can enter Indonesia on a 30-day tourist visa, which can be extended for another 30 days. If you’re planning to stay longer, consider the social-cultural visa, which is valid for 60 days and can be extended up to 180 days. However, it requires a local sponsor. My tip: find a reliable agent to handle your visa extensions; it’s worth the small fee for the convenience.
Personal Experiences:
Living in Indonesia has been an enriching experience. The warmth and hospitality of the locals are heartwarming, and there’s always a sense of community. The landscapes range from pristine beaches to lush green rice terraces, each offering a unique charm. The traditional ceremonies and festivals are fascinating, offering a glimpse into the rich local culture.
The work-life balance here is wonderful. I start my day with yoga, work for a few hours, and then explore local markets or meet friends. On weekends, I’m usually off exploring the beautiful islands or diving into the vibrant underwater world.
However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows. The traffic can be chaotic, and the heat can get intense. But these minor inconveniences pale in comparison to the overall experience.
Tips for Other Nomads:
1. Rent a scooter: It’s the quickest and most economical way to get around. Just remember to drive safely and wear a helmet.
2. Learn some Bahasa Indonesia: The locals appreciate it when you make an effort to speak their language.
3. Respect the customs and traditions: Dress modestly, particularly when visiting temples.
4. Stay healthy: Stick to bottled water and ensure your food is properly cooked to avoid the dreaded ‘Bali Belly.’
5. Embrace the unexpected: Things might not always go as planned, but that’s part of the adventure!
Living and working remotely in Indonesia has been an incredible journey, and I hope my experiences and tips will encourage you to embark on your own Indonesian adventure. Remember, every country has its ups and downs, but with an open mind and adaptability, you can make the most of your digital nomad life.
Until next time, keep wandering, keep wondering!
– Olivia Martinez, your digital nomad.