Our year in Bali

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Our year in Bali

Helping people from around
the world move to Bali 🌴

We've got you covered: Visas, Housing, Insurance, School, Starting a Business & More! Great!

Let's turn your dream into reality 🏝️

Book your FREE 30-min call 👇 I started this website to record our experiences during our gap year in Bali. We were so happy in Bali that our gap year turned into an amazing two-year family adventure that changed our lives. Now back in Australia, I continue my love for the Bali expat life by providing a relocation service with essential living resources to hel

p other families make the move too! BALI OFFERED EVERYTHING OUR FAMILY WANTED IN OUR GAP YEAR:

- An Australian School System with the same curriculum and school calendar
- Only one or two hours behind Australian Eastern Standard Time, making it easy to work remotely
- Reliable internet access with free wi-fi widely available (our villa internet worked well)
- Regular flights to Australia and Singapore for easy trips home and visa updates
- More family leisure time as we didn’t need to wash our clothes, clean the house, cook and commute to work
- Lower cost of living allowing us to frequently enjoy restaurants, movies and travel
- A diverse culture and island life with a religious Hindu population and their customs, language, food, festivals and ceremonies
- A tropical climate where the forecast everyday is very warm!
- Travel opportunities with many diverse places to explore in Bali, on nearby islands and in neighbouring Asian countries
- A diverse expat community and opportunities to form new friendships and connect with people and entrepreneurs with a similar mindset
- Delicious food including exotic fruit and vegetables, affordable Indonesian and international cuisine and an incredible health food scene too! Another big factor when relocating with children is the education they will receive. Bali offers many schooling options , including International pre-schools and schools (you may have heard about the famous Green School), family-based homeschools, distance online learning and even world schooling. During our time in Bali, I was intrigued by the stories of my fellow expats so I started interviewing friends and publishing their stories. I continue to publish inspiring interviews most weeks. This growing interview collection takes us into the homes and lives of expat families living in Bali. Most recently, I have consulted families from the USA, Canada, Bahrain, India, Singapore, UK, Brazil, Croatia, Dubai, New Zealand, Colombia and of course Australia. Surprisingly, many of these families have never been to Bali before. On the flipside, many are regular visitors to Bali. Either way, they reach out to me for my comprehensive service to gain the confidence they need to make the move. We all go through a learning curve when relocating somewhere different, but by using my ‘Move to Bali’ consulting service you will have the necessary tools to speed up the process so you can relax a whole lot quicker. Keen to find out more about living in Bali? Email me your details so we can set up a free 30 min Zoom call to discuss your plans and learn how I can help. I look forward to helping you live your best Bali life!

07/06/2024

The wonderful community spirit in Bali awaits you! 🏝️

I was so excited to receive a wonderful photo from two San Diego families who became my clients. One family is planning for at least a gap year and the other has sold up everything and starting fresh. Both families are arriving in Bali next month and looking to live around the same area! I introduced them, and they ended up having a BBQ and swimming together in their hometown. It’s the first time I’ve connected clients before they have even landed in Bali, and they hit it off right away.

This lovely connection is just a preview of the amazing community experiences waiting in Bali. 🌟

What are some of your favourite community moments in Bali? Share your stories below!

05/06/2024

The Adventure Cycle! 🌍

Make your Bali dream a reality in these five simple steps:

👏 Decision Made: Congratulations! You know Bali is the next chapter for you!

📲 Discovery Call: Set up a free 30 minute Zoom with me to discuss your plans and get your questions answered.

🥇Pick a Package: Perfect support awaits with a choice of the Bronze, Silver, or Gold packages to support your move.

🏝️ Further Support: We will delve deeper into your goals and connect you with further contacts in Bali.

✈️ Smooth Move: Enjoy a seamless transition as we do all the thinking for you.

Head over to my bio to find to start our journey together!

01/06/2024

Life As A French Expat Mum In Family-Friendly Sanur. 🏝️

Meet Laura, a French mother of two living in beautiful Sanur, Bali! Discover her journey from a planned year-long adventure to making Bali her home.

Laura shares tips on raising kids in a culturally rich environment, highlights the perks of affordable living, and offers a glimpse into her daily routine filled with beach walks, work, and family time. She also talks about the challenges, from healthcare concerns to adapting to the local climate. ☀️

Read Laura’s full interview on my website and get an insight into expat life as a mum in paradise!

29/05/2024

“”The essence of Bali is found in its simplicity.” ☀️

Share your favorite Bali tradition in the comments below!

27/05/2024

“Simone has exceeded our expectations, helping to make our family’s transition to Bali as smooth as possible. She is a natural connector and genuinely cares that each connection creates the conditions for reciprocal relationships to flourish so that they also positively contribute to the greater communities existing on island.” - Ben Link, USA

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

23/05/2024

Introducing Kyla and her young family on a 3-month adventure. 🏝️

I first connected with Kyla in 2023 as she mapped out her family adventure to Bali. Travelling with 3 children under the age of 6, her story is an inspiration for other families hoping to go on similar journeys.

Kyla’s words resonate: “Our kids learned more in our 4 months away than they will ever learn from a book at school.” ☀️

Read their full story over in the bio.

18/05/2024

“Bali is a reminder that life is beautiful and the world is waiting for you to explore it.”

Comment below your favourite thing about the Bali lifestyle . 🌴

14/05/2024

“Simone has been amazing helping us land in Bali. She has provided us with tons of valuable information on Bali life, gave us Visa advice and got us into contact with the right people such as: school principals and real estate agents. Strongly recommend working with her when considering a move to Bali!”

- Leontine Leeuwenburgh, The Netherlands

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

11/05/2024

“Bali is not just a destination: it’s an experience that leaves an everlasting imprint on your soul.”

Comment below 3 words that describe how Bali makes you feel. ✨

09/05/2024

Australian Couple Makes Bali Their Retirement Paradise! 🏝️✨

Meet Dean and Kylie, who after celebrating their wedding in Bali, decided to retire in their dream destination! Leaving behind their Gold Coast life, they now enjoy surfing, yoga, and renovating their Balangan villa.

With the help of Our Year in Bali, their move was seamless, proving that retiring in Bali is more than just a dream – it’s a vibrant reality! 🌺 Read their full story over on oour website. (Link in bio)

08/05/2024

Hey everyone! I’m Simone, the founder of Our Year In Bali. Firstly, congratulations! If you’re here, it means you’re considering Bali as your next life chapter, and that’s super exciting!

Over the years, I’ve assisted families, couples, and retirees from over 55 countries in transitioning to this beautiful island. Just this week, I’ve had insightful conversations with people eager to begin their Bali journey from countries such as the USA, Denmark, Australia, New Zealand, UK, and the Netherlands. 🌏

Having personally relocated my family, I understand the importance of dependable and trustworthy recommendations to help you make well-informed decisions. By establishing a comprehensive network throughout Bali, I have the knowledge and resources necessary to offer reliable assistance with important processes.

For example, I can help support you in acquiring the appropriate visa, securing optimal insurance, locating suitable housing or investment opportunities, launching a business, and navigating international schooling choices.

I offer a complimentary 30-minute consultation where we will discuss your specific needs and requirements. Given the unique circumstances of each individual, I provide three packages—bronze, silver, or gold. Each package offers the essential tools you need to feel more at ease and confident in your transition to Bali. 🏝️

Click the link below for further details. Together, let’s make your dream a reality!

https://linktr.ee/ouryearinbali

29/04/2024

Bali's diversity offers something special for every visitor, with each region boasting its own unique character. 🌎

Here's a glimpse into some beloved areas favoured by expats:

Canggu: A vibrant mix of nomads, families, and couples flock to Canggu for its beachside charm and bustling vibe.

Uluwatu: The picturesque Bukit area is a haven for surfers, with stunning landscapes and beautiful beaches.

Ubud: Nestled in lush nature, Ubud is Bali's cultural hub, attracting retirees, singles, couples, and families with its serene pace and vibrant healthy food scene.

Umalas: Inland and away from the beach, Umalas offers wonderful amenities like cafes, restaurants, schools , and more.

Sanur: Just a 30-minute drive from the airport, Sanur's tranquil beach town vibe appeals to retirees, expats, and families alike.

No matter where you settle, Bali's expat community thrives, making it easy to forge meaningful connections.

Which area of Bali intrigues you the most? Let us know in the comments! 👇

28/04/2024

German Mother-Daughter Duo Embrace Bali: Peace, Culture, Adventure 🌴

Meet Julia and her daughter Amelie from southern Germany. Julia left the corporate world for Bali’s vibrant culture and serene landscapes. From their quaint town in Germany to the spiritual haven of Ubud, they found their home in Bali for the past seven years.

Read their full story here - https://ouryearinbali.com/german-mother-daughter-embrace-bali-adventure/. 👩‍👧

Comment below if you have a relocation success story you would like to share!

19/04/2024

I first spoke to Kyla in March 2023 when she was planning her 3-month Bali family adventure. This journey was part of a fantastic itinerary that also included time in Thailand and Vietnam.

Be inspired by Kyla who decided to go to take her small family across the globe from Spain and embark on this amazing adventure!

So it is a big yes when it comes to deciding if you can travel with very young children!

As Kyla expressed so eloquently, “Our kids learned more in our 4 months away than they will ever learn from a book at school.”

Read interview: https://ouryearinbali.com/spanish-family-travel-with-young-children-for-3-months-in-bali/

08/04/2024

Deciding to retire in Bali involves a lot of choices. Our services offer the tools, resources, and information you need to make informed decisions.

Carol, thanks for your kind words. Helping you with your retirement plans was a pleasure.

https://ouryearinbali.com/retirement/

15/03/2024

Embracing Bali: A European Family's Journey

In January 2023, we embarked on a discovery call with Aline and Bernard from Switzerland, envisioning their relocation to Bali for a two-year work and family opportunity.

Fast forward to August of the same year, and Aline welcomed me into her beautiful Sanur villa a short bike ride to the beach.

Now, after over six months of Bali living, we're thrilled to reconnect and share their unique expat journey.

Also learn how much the children enjoy going to for their Bali school life.

This interview becomes part of over 120 expat stories on the website found in Life in Bali.

https://ouryearinbali.com/from-swiss-countryside-to-balinese-bliss/

11/03/2024

No matter where to travel around Bali you will find these small temples with offerings to the gods.

Balinese Hindus believe that these spirits inhabit the land, water, and mountains, and the small temples act as a bridge between the physical and metaphysical realms.

Take a moment to appreciate these small temples and the offerings laid with love.

This one is in beautiful Sideman - East Bali.

05/03/2024

Over the years we have asked for testimonials for the website and now started to gather google reviews too.

Here's to 50 more glowing reviews and countless moments of satisfaction! 🥂 Thank you for being a part of our journey – your satisfaction is our ultimate reward.

Thank you to each and every one of you who took the time to share your positive experiences with us. Your support means the world!

Testimonials - https://ouryearinbali.com/testimonials/

17/02/2024

Embarking on a tropical escape in Ubud! 🌴 Join Lisa, a property entrepreneur from Melbourne, her artist husband Roger, and their 15-year-old daughter Skye on a six-month adventure managing Eden Yarra Valley remotely. 🏡 Hear about their journey, the challenges of balancing work and family, and the poignant reasons that led them to embrace Bali's vibrant lifestyle. 🌺 Discover how Lisa and Roger made a pivotal decision for Skye's education with a unique micro-schooling option , witnessing her thrive in a personalized academic environment recommended by Simone. 📚

https://ouryearinbali.com/melbourne-to-ubud-six-month-family-adventure-high-school-for-teenage-daughter/

15/02/2024

Spoke to these lovely clients from Denver, USA last month who are coming to Bali later in the year, and it has been so wonderful to receive this feedback.
Thank you!

"Simone is a great bridge to moving to Bali. She takes care into learning what you would need and what you are looking for and helps make it come together with her knowledge and contacts. It is difficult to navigate moving to another country but she helps you feel more confident and prepared. I had felt unsure and anxious but it was night and day after talking to her as I felt like I could see more clearly about who, what, where and how. And she really gets the ball rolling for you in terms of connecting you to the right people who have all been helpful and nice. I would highly recommend her to anyone who is serious about moving to Bali. She can help you navigate through the process."

For more testimonials - https://ouryearinbali.com/testimonials/

13/02/2024

Starting February 14, 2024, the Bali Government is introducing a new tourist tax of 150,000 Indonesian rupiah (approx. AUD$15 or $10 USD) for foreign guests. 🇮🇩✈️

This initiative, in conjunction with the existing e-visa on arrival, is designed to support environmental and cultural conservation efforts on the island. 🌏💙 Your contribution will help enhance service quality and safety standards for a more enjoyable Bali experience.

💸 Funds raised (estimated $185,000 daily) will be dedicated to conservation projects, services, and safety improvements for our visitors.

🌐 Paying the Tourism Levy is easy:
📲 Visit LOVE BALI's website or mobile app
💳 Choose from payment options like bank transfer, virtual account, or Qris
📝 Provide essential details: name, passport number, email, and arrival date

💌 Upon payment, receive a voucher via email for easy scanning at entry checkpoints.

💳 Cashless payments are also accepted at Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) and other harborside entry points.

🔗 For more details and to pay the tourism levy, visit https://lovebali.baliprov.go.id/

Let’s contribute to the beauty and sustainability of this paradise together! 🌺🌴

10/02/2024

In this interview, we sit down with , a clinical psychologist and couples therapist, along with her husband Andy, a digital marketing professional.

Originally from the Mornington Peninsula, Australia, they made a life-changing decision to move to Bali in February 2023. Trading the hustle of their busy psychology practice for the serene landscapes of Bali, the couple embarked on a journey to redefine their lives.

In this candid conversation, they share their motivations, challenges, and the transformative impact Bali has had on their personal and professional pursuits. From adapting to local customs to creating evidence-based online wellness programs, the Stirlings provide insights into their daily life, the vibrant expat community, and the enriching experiences that come with embracing Bali as their new home.

Interview on the Our Year in Bali website -(Life in Bali - Expat stories) https://ouryearinbali.com/melbourne-family-bali-transformation-wellness-bliss/

02/02/2024

Living in Bali as an expat often means navigating a new and unfamiliar environment. The daily ritual of gratitude becomes a comforting anchor, a universal language that helps bridge cultural gaps. Witnessing the locals express their thankfulness for the beauty that surrounds them serves as a powerful reminder about the importance of cultivating gratitude in their own lives.

15/01/2024

Thrilled to assist this South African family during their 3-month Bali stay. Appreciate your kind words, Kyla!

The Bronze package that they enjoyed included the following:

Practical living guide: A jam-packed resource to kickstart your journey (plus a great place to start).
Essential planning - packing and pre-departure lists: Handy lists to ensure a smooth transition.
Cost of living guide/budget (excel spreadsheet): An invaluable tool for financial planning.
Housing Inspection checklist: providing careful considerations for finding the right home.
Local Recruitment Guide: Understand staff expectations and salaries
School and education guide: Insights and information on schooling options.
Language Guide: A useful resource to help you navigate the local language.
Settling in checklist: Hit the ground running with this itemised list to use when you arrive.

08/01/2024

Over 18 months ago, I had a detailed discussion with Steve regarding his retirement plans in Bali.

Our conversation spanned various aspects, including the retirement visa, housing, insurance, medical considerations, cost of living, and more.

Steve opted for the Gold package, to provide him with comprehensive information essential for his upcoming expat life and video support.

With our trusted providers we organised the correct visas for both Steve and his wife Miri, as well as securing a yearly lease for a beautiful home in Sanur.

The couple arrived in August, and it’s truly heartening to witness their successful transition into their new retired life in Sanur.

Dive into this enlightening interview on the website where Steve generously shares insights into his motivations to move to Bali, the vibrant Sanur community, a typical day in his retired life, considerations for retirement, and valuable recommendations and tips.

https://ouryearinbali.com/brisbane-couple-retires-to-sanur/

21/12/2023

Subscribe to our newsletter (www.ouryearinbali.com)
and receive a complimentary download - The essential checklist to move family to Bali.

Explore the crucial steps before your Bali move with us! We provide a comprehensive checklist of 100 items!

Ensure a smooth transition by creating a timeline that works backward from your departure date. Let the anticipation grow for your upcoming Bali adventure!

14/12/2023

In October 2022, I had a discovery call with Mehwish regarding her family's decision to relocate to Bali for the long term. With the challenge of bringing her 16-month-old triplets, there was much to discuss, and they were in need of extensive assistance.

Mehwish and her family, who had arrived from the UK in August, benefited greatly from our Silver package. This comprehensive package facilitated various aspects of their relocation, including visa arrangements, securing a one-year lease in Sanur walking distance to the beach, and connecting them with necessary staff and medical contacts.

It was a delightful experience to catch up with Mehwish and her family in Sanur shortly after their arrival.

They in the process of settling in and were in the midst of searching for a nanny to care for the triplets.

To read more testimonials - https://ouryearinbali.com/testimonials/

08/12/2023

Kim, an Canadian expat, scheduled a call with me last October to discuss her intentions of relocating to Bali following eleven years of teaching in Vietnam.

Shortly after the call she became a client and purchased the Silver package. It was a delightful experience to enjoy a dinner together in Sanur a few weeks after her arrival in August.

In her interview, Kim discusses her initial experiences during the first few months of settling into a long-term relocation in Sanur with her dog. For the first year she will study a Masters in Character Education and then look for job opportunities.

https://ouryearinbali.com/from-a-teaching-career-in-vietnam-to-thriving-as-a-solo-female-expat-in-sanur-bali/

05/12/2023

🌟 Exciting Update! Our New Website, "Our Year in Bali," is now LIVE! 🌟

After weeks of hard work, we're thrilled to unveil our latest endeavor. Explore the beauty of Bali with us at www.ouryearinbali.com

What awaits you on our website?

🌴 New Content: Dive into a treasure trove of fresh material, including an exclusive section on the ins and outs of moving to Bali and thriving in Bali.

🌐 Our Services: Navigate seamlessly through our services as we break down our packages and outline the step-by-step process of working with us.

🌟 Inspiring Expat interviews: Immerse yourself in over 100 expat stories, offering inspiration for every journey, whether it's a brief escape or a long-term relocation leading up to retirement.

BONUS - Additionally, for those who subscribe to our newsletter, enjoy an extra perk – receive a complimentary essential moving checklist tailored for families. 📦📋

We can't wait to hear what you think!

Thank you for being with us on this exciting adventure!

02/12/2023

Eight months ago, Kylie and Dean tied the knot in Bali! According to Kylie, "we should have stayed and never returned to Australia." Fortunately, the good news is that just a few weeks ago, they returned to Bali to retire, selling all their belongings in Australia.

It has been delightful assisting them with items like their visas and insurance and providing all the necessary information for their life in Bali.

We are eagerly anticipating seeing them settle into their beautiful home in Jimbaran next week.

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Videos

Enjoy our School Spotlight live interview with Conny, the founder and Principal of the @caterpillarschoolbali in the Umalas, Bali. NOTE: video starts at approx 1:40min - thank you for your understanding. Discover the story behind this exceptional learning hub that emphasizes nature-based activities and individualized education, bridging Finnish and English curricula, and honoring Bali's rich culture. I love recommending this school to my clients because I know they will be so happy! Thank you Conny for sharing so much about why your school is a stand out success in its authentic approach that focuses on the individual child. If you have any more questions please feel free to send me a DM or reach out to the Caterpillar School Bali

Beautiful start to the day seeing all the amazing offerings in Sanur, Bali

Living in Bali makes it so easy to eat healthily and access the freshest in-season produce. Bali is home to more tropical fruits and local veggies than you could eat in your lifetime. Pop into one of these mini markets for affordable favorites like dragon fruit, mangosteen, mango and snake fruit.

Always a good start to the day in Bali

My daughter loved getting in her traditional Balinese costume (Kebaya) and learning about Balinese Hinduism. Here she is doing an offering for gratitude in our villa with our house keeper. With this ritual, Balinese Hinduism strives to maintain the balance between good and bad. Rooted in this belief is an understanding that both positive and negative energies exist in the world where we live.

The @greenschoolbali attracts many families to Bali. It is an international, progressive, Pre K - Grade 12 school, that focuses on nurturing their students as the change makers who create an sustainable world. I have interviewed many families on my website that have attended the Green School. Thank you @olgavalentineswimwear for sharing this Green School Assembly and your story about life at the school for five years with your three children (see website for this interview plus many more). When moving to Bali, there are so many factors to consider when choosing what type of education you want for your children; Home schools are growing now with the current COVID conditions, distance education and a great mix of international schools across the island. I have a very comprehensive post about finding the best school in Bali and things to consider like visas, budget, transport, language, tutoring, special needs and more. Visit: https://ouryearinbali.com/schools-in-bali-2/ I am also here to share advice and provide feedback so send me a message.

The kids had a ball designing their very own Jewellery in Ubud. The class was in a community centre so you can see we had traditional Balinese dancing and music as our backdrop! Although we didnt live in Ubud we spent lots of time there and loved it! - Ubud Writers Festival - Yoga Barn and anything spiritual and healing known to man - Rice field walks and stunning landscape - Temples - Insane vegan food and restaurants - Waterfalls - Shopping - Markets - Titi Batu Club - Eco villages - so so much more! Another great expat community to consider when moving to Bali. Very different to the beach vibe but it may just gel with you better. Some families try 6 - months in two different areas like Ubud and Sanur or Canggu because they are so different and a good hour or more drive from each other. Have you been to Ubud before? Do you think it’s your vibe?

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