Bali Insights
Guides, news and stories to help you live, work and invest confidently in Indonesia
All About the Different Districts in Bali (and Why Your Address Matters)
If you’ve ever wondered about what the different regencies of Bali are like, read on. There are eight regencies, each of which has its own character. In this article, we explore what makes them unique, tell you what you need to know about local addresses and about which immigration office you need to visit when getting your Bali visa, based on where you live.
Relocating to Bali With Your Family in 2026
Thinking about relocating to Bali with your family in 2026? From finding the right international school and choosing a suitable visa to understanding accommodation, healthcare and everyday expenses, there are several things to consider before making the move. This guide covers the essentials to help you understand what family life in Bali could look like and how to prepare for a smooth transition.
Bali’s New Waste Plant and Financial Centre: What’s Behind It
Bali is changing faster than ever. Behind the headlines is Danantara, Indonesia's sovereign wealth fund, which is funding a major waste-to-energy plant and a proposed international financial centre. At the same time, the government is introducing stricter rules for smaller foreign-owned businesses. Here's what these changes could mean if you're planning to invest, relocate, or do business in Bali.
How Bad is Bali’s Traffic?
For those who live in south Bali, traffic jams are just a part of life. For tourists, or those who imagine Bali as an unspoiled paradise, the extent of the traffic often comes as a surprise, so much so that Bali has made global headlines in recent years because of it. Let's take a look at what's actually being done to fix it, whether it's working and what it means for you as a foreigner living or driving here.
Why Is Alcohol So Expensive in Bali?
Bali may have a thriving restaurant and nightlife scene, but imported alcohol often comes with a hefty price tag. This article explores the taxes behind those higher prices, explains why some international brands are produced locally and sold for less, and outlines the licensing requirements for businesses that want to sell alcohol legally in Indonesia.
Bali and Indonesia in Numbers
From population growth and urban expansion to tourism trends and environmental pressures, the numbers behind Bali and Indonesia tell a compelling story of change. Jakarta’s rise as the world’s largest urban area, Bali’s rebound in international arrivals, and the ongoing challenges of waste management and infrastructure all reflect a region in transition.
Is Being an Influencer Illegal in Bali? What You Need to Know about Posting on Social Media as a Foreigner
For many of us, posting on social media is second nature. It’s normal to share a photo of your villa, talk about a cafe you love or list a spare room to see if you can make a little extra money from it. However, in the eyes of Indonesian immigration, some of these everyday posts could actually be classed as work and considered a violation of your visa. Read on to find out what the rules are and how they apply to you.
The Real Cost of Living in Bali: Hidden Costs You Should Budget For
If you are planning on moving to Bali, you've probably considered the cost of rent, food, transport, trips, and healthcare. However, life is full of surprises, and more often than not, moving to another culture and country will come with its own unexpected costs. In this article, we'll explore the hidden costs of living in Bali in 2026.
Will Bali Allow Skyscrapers?
Bali is reviewing a proposal to increase its building height limit from 15 to 45 meters in selected zones, a move that could significantly reshape the island’s property market, tourism development, and investment opportunities. While supporters argue it may improve regulation and reduce illegal construction, critics warn of potential environmental strain and the risk of losing Bali’s cultural identity.
Your Top 10 Questions Answered by Bali Solve 2026 Guide
After years of running a visa agency in Bali, we’ve had our fair share of questions, and some of them get asked over and over again. If there’s something you’ve been wondering about visas, setting up a business or living in Bali - you might find the answer in this article, as we dive into your top questions over the last year.
Legal Myths Expats Still Believe in Bali
Think your structure is legal because your agent said so? Think again. From Investor KITAS limitations to nominee risks and Airbnb tax obligations, here’s what foreigners in Bali must understand to stay compliant.
Why Bali’s Biggest Landfill is Closing
Every day, over 1,000 tonnes of waste disappears from South Bali’s streets, only to be taken and dumped in a massive landfill site near Sanur, called TPA Suwung. The landfill has been open since 1984 - but this 40-year routine is expected to end quite soon.
Finding a Job in Bali as a Foreigner: Realistic Opportunities in 2026
Is your Instagram feed full of people 'living the dream in Bali' teaching sunrise yoga on the beach, or DJing at a beach club in Seminyak? Perhaps you're wondering how you can do it, too. The reality is a little more complicated than just packing your bags and heading to Bali to look for a job, as you might in other countries.
Bali Immigration Spot Checks: What You Need to Know As a Tourist or Expat in Bali
Tourists and foreigners living in Bali, be prepared and keep your visa at the ready. Immigration spot checks are on the rise across the island, with officers being seen checking people in cafes, on streets, at beaches or even turning up to tourist accommodation unannounced.
How to Retire in Bali 2025: A Step-by-Step Guide
Waking up to beach walks, a laid back lifestyle and friendly Balinese neighbours, with a cost of living that makes your retirement savings stretch much further than back home: welcome to retiring in Bali.
Bali's September 2025 Floods: A Wake-Up Call for the Island
On the 9th of September 2025, Bali experienced some of the worst floods in its recent history, an incident which then went on to tragically claim the lives of 18 people and spark discussions about what the future has in store for the island.
How Much Does It Really Cost to Live in Bali in 2025?
Dreaming of living in Bali? There's a famous saying which goes, 'a dream without a plan is just a wish.' If you're going to live in Bali, you might be wondering what kind of budget you'll need each month. Bali's reputation as an affordable paradise has been spread across social media in recent years, but is that still accurate in 2025?
How To Move Your Family to Bali: Everything You Need to Know Before Taking the Plunge
Are you thinking about trading in your current life to move to Bali with your family? Or, perhaps, you’re already here and wondering how you can move your loved ones to be with you? Plenty of families have moved to Bali, and there are several options when it comes to visas. However, there are also certain considerations such as housing, schooling and budgeting that you need to take into account before you take the decision of moving here with your family.
Expecting Abroad: How to Manage Pregnancy in Indonesia as a Foreigner
Finding yourself pregnant whilst living in Indonesia can bring a wide range of emotions and practical considerations. Whatever your circumstances, whether you’re excited to start this new chapter, or perhaps feeling overwhelmed or distressed, we’ll try to cover the necessary steps if you’ve found out that you’re pregnant whilst in Indonesia, so that you’re a bit clearer on what you need to plan.
How to Get Around in Bali: A Guide to Transportation and Avoiding Traffic
Are you coming to Bali soon, or are you new on the island? Despite all the beauty to be found along Bali’s roads, there are also challenges, such as dealing with terrible traffic, pushy taxi drivers or not having your own transportation. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you understand how to get around in Bali, so you can enjoy yourself to the max and potentially save hours of your precious time.
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