Expat Life in Bali: Personal Reflections and Property Insights

Living abroad in Bali brings with it a complex set of experiences. Each expatriate has a different story, prompting the question, "What does it really mean to be an expat?"

The term 'expatriate' is derived from the Latin word 'ex', meaning 'out of', and the Greek 'patria', meaning 'fatherland'. It refers to someone who lives outside their home country. I moved to Bali with my family in March 2023, and this move has deepened my understanding of the expatriate way of life in Bali.

In Bali, expats are often called 'bulé', a term used for non-Indonesians, usually those of Caucasian or European descent. While the term can have negative undertones, it generally identifies someone as foreign.

Living as an expat in Bali is a deeply personal experience that defies a simple description. Everyone comes with their own unique backgrounds and aspirations, influencing how they perceive their new environment. As noted anthropologist Margaret Mead once said, "We are all unique, just like everyone else."

My Personal Experience Living in Bali

Bali is a place of contrasts for me, both profoundly frustrating and constantly surprising. It often feels like I don’t completely grasp it, yet it also feels like home. There's an ongoing sense of being an outsider, but at the same time, I am recognized and appreciated in certain ways. While culturally I remain an outsider, living here has greatly enriched my life.

Patience is a commendable trait in Balinese culture. For example, road rage is almost non-existent here. Even in the midst of chaotic traffic, where sudden stops are common, the lack of aggression and swearing is noticeable.

An important lesson from living here is to keep one's temper in check. Public displays of anger or frustration are frowned upon and can make you feel alienated. I've come to value this aspect of Balinese culture.

Showing wealth modestly is another cultural norm in Bali. Excessive display, or 'peacocking', is not welcomed. It encourages reflection on the necessity of flaunting wealth, which is a valuable aspect of the culture here.

In Bali, you are stripped of your cultural baggage and are either forced to reinvent yourself or live within an expat bubble, separate from the local setting.

Finding a Home in Bali

As I adjusted to expat life, finding the right place to live in Bali was both challenging and fascinating. I delved into the Bali property market, focusing on rental properties and the various villas available.

I began by extensively researching the Bali rental market. Housing options ranged from traditional homes to luxurious modern villas, each reflecting a different aspect of life in Bali. I used online listings, local real estate agents, and connections within the expat community to gather insights.

Visiting these properties was the next step. Each villa offered a unique view of Balinese life, from serene beachfront homes to quaint settings among lush rice fields. It was crucial for me to consider the physical spaces, feel the ambiance, and imagine my life there.

A major part of this process involved understanding the legal and cultural aspects of renting in Bali. I looked into lease agreements, local laws, and practices unique to the Balinese property market, often consulting legal experts and experienced expats.

My decision was ultimately influenced by a combination of factors: the charm of the location, the comfort and aesthetics of the villa, the terms of the lease, and importantly, a feeling of belonging. The villa I chose not only serves as a house but as a home where I can engage with local culture while maintaining my comfort preferences.