This article was written by a foreign intern at ILOT Property Bali, based on her personal experience.
Leaving my bicycle behind for a motorbike, I began a new chapter in Bali for my marketing internship at ILOT Property. What started as an internship opportunity quickly became a life-changing experience full of challenges, learning, and unforgettable adventures.
If you’re considering moving to Bali, whether it’s for an internship, work, or simply to enjoy island life, this article will guide you through what to prepare, what to expect, and the do’s and don’ts of living on the Island of the Gods.
Preparing to Move or Visit Bali for the First Time
Relocating to Bali or even visiting for the first time requires some planning. Here are the main things you should prepare:
- Visa & paperwork: Depending on your purpose (work, internship, long stay, or tourism), make sure you choose the right visa. Student internships often require additional university documents.
- Housing: Before you arrive, research where you’d like to live. Canggu, Seminyak, and Ubud are popular choices, but each has its own vibe. (Tip: The ILOT Property team can guide you in finding the perfect villa to stay in Bali)
- Vaccinations & health prep: Make sure you check the required vaccinations and prepare basic medicines like ORS and loperamide to take care of the famous Bali Belly.
- Packing: Lightweight clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, and a raincoat (yes, Bali weather can be unpredictable, especially in the rainy season).
- Transport setup: Most people get around by scooter. If you’re not comfortable driving, apps like Grab or Gojek are lifesavers.
Read More: Actual Cost of Living Comfortably in Bali for Expats
The Real Bali: Expectation vs. Reality
When I thought of Bali, I imagined white sand beaches, rice terraces, and an easy island lifestyle. While that’s true, there’s also another side to daily life here:
- Traffic & sidewalks: Bali isn’t very walkable compared to Europe. Scooters rule the road, and sidewalks can be uneven or missing. If you think of running, I would recommend joining a run club at the beginning; luckily, there are a few.
- Weather surprises: Bali is tropical, meaning sun one moment and heavy rain the next. Pack accordingly.
- Lifestyle balance: Bali offers both serenity (temples, yoga, beaches) and lively nightlife (beach clubs, bars). It’s about finding the mix that works for you.
- Construction: everywhere you are going, they are building something new. Fast-paced tourism and development lead to construction, noise, and a changing landscape, as hotels and beach clubs expand.
Do’s and Don’ts in Bali
If you’re planning to make Bali your home (for whatever reasons), here are my top tips:
Do:
- Stay in an area that matches your lifestyle. Canggu is trendy and social, Ubud is spiritual and green, and Seminyak offers more luxury.
- Try local dishes like nasi goreng and mie goreng, but stick to clean restaurants when you first arrive to avoid Bali belly.
- Use scooters or ride-hailing apps for convenience.
- To meet people, I would recommend Facebook groups or working at co-working spaces.
- Learn about Balinese culture and traditions. Understanding local customs, from temple etiquette to daily offerings (canang sari), will help you connect more deeply with the community and show respect to the island’s rich heritage.
- Go for a beauty treatment or for a massage. It is a perfect way to relax, and it is much cheaper than you are probably used to.
Don’t:
- Drink tap water. Always stick to bottled water, also when brushing your teeth.
- Forget to bring a water filter for the shower; otherwise, the water will ruin your hair.
- Forget temple etiquette; cover your shoulders and legs when visiting. Most temples offer a sarong to wear. Please be respectful when visiting these places
- Step on offerings. Be careful not to step on or near Canang Sari, the small daily offerings found on sidewalks.
- Rely only on walking. Distances are longer than they seem on maps, and sidewalks can be uneven or missing.
- Underestimate the sun. Even on cloudy days, Bali sunburns are real, bring sunscreen everywhere.
Read More: Second Home Visa: A Must Have for Long-Term Stay in Bali
Best Spots to Visit in Bali
Best Bali spots I recommend for newcomers:
- La Brisa (Canggu): Perfect sunset vibes with good food.
- Finns Beach Club (canggu): Great for nightlife and beachside fun.
- Ubud: Rice terraces, Monkey Forest, and cultural heart of Bali.
- Lovina: Swimming with dolphins, sliding down a waterfall and visiting a Buddhist temple.
Read More: 8 Things to Do in Nusa Dua (For an Unforgettable Trip!)
My Internship at ILOT Property
The main reason I moved to Bali was for my internship. I joined ILOT Property as a marketing intern, and my tasks included:
- Creating content such as Instagram stories and Canva visuals.
- Writing blog articles (just like this one!)
- Learning how real estate in Bali works from a marketing perspective.
On my first day, I was nervous (and even went to the wrong location by mistake!). But the team was supportive, and I quickly felt at home. Working in Bali taught me how to adapt, be creative, and balance work with cultural experiences.
Conclusion: Bali Travel Guide for First-Timers
Living here has taught me that Bali is more than a travel destination. It’s a lifestyle. And if you prepare well, your experience will be just as unforgettable as mine.
One of the most important things to prepare before moving to Bali is your home. Here, most expats choose to live in villas rented on a long-term lease (typically 25–30 years). But many also decide to own property and land themselves.
Yes, foreigners can own property in Bali and invest here—legally and with ease. If you’d like to know how, our team is always ready to guide you through the process. Feel free to reach out to us anytime.
With over 20 years of experience helping expats create their homes in Bali, here’s what we do best:
- Design a villa that matches your style, personality, and vision
- Guide you through the entire building process, from start to finish
- Manage your villa long-term to maximize quality and returns
FAQ
1. Can you live in Bali for $1000 a month?
Yes, living in Bali on around USD 1,000/month is possible, though it’s considered a budget lifestyle.
2. How to move to Bali permanently?
The first step is applying for the right visa. As an expat, your visa type depends on your purpose—whether you’re planning to work, retire, or stay long-term. Having the correct visa ensures your move and stay in Indonesia is legal.
3. What is the 6-month rule in Bali?
To enter Indonesia, your passport must have at least two blank pages and remain valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival.
4. How hard is it to get residency in Bali?
Obtaining permanent residency in Bali (KITAP) can take several months. Applicants should begin the process well before their KITAS expires. To qualify, you must have had the same sponsor for the past five years, which helps smooth the process and reduce the chance of rejection.
