Bali Insights
Guides, news and stories to help you live, work and invest confidently in Indonesia
A Decade of Growth - International Arrivals in Bali Between 2015-2024
Bali’s tourism industry continues to thrive, with international visitor numbers often surpassing the island’s own population of nearly five million. As tourism makes up about 80% of Bali’s economy, the decade-long data on arrivals reveals a powerful story of the island’s resilience and success.
Do You Really Need Health Insurance When Living in Bali? Here’s Why and Where to Buy It.
Living abroad is fun and exciting, but if you end up having a serious illness or having to pay hefty hospital bills that you can’t afford, you may wonder why you left your country in the first place. In this post, we’ll explore the health insurance options available for expats living in Bali, so that you can cover yourself from any unexpected issues.
Which Visa Do You Need To Work Remotely in Bali?
Working remotely and living in Bali is a dream that many have, and one which has become much more attainable in recent years. If you’d like to work remotely and live in Bali, then chances are you need to find the right visa to do so. In this guide, we’ll weigh up the options available when it comes to living and working online legally in Bali.
A Quick Guide to Bali's 2024 Governor Election
At the end of this month, on November 27, 2024, a new governor of Bali will be elected. Here's a quick roundup of the candidates and what to expect from whoever wins this first-past-the-post election. The winning candidate will serve a term of five years and will play a fundamental role in both the development and preservation of Bali.
Indonesia’s New President, Prabowo, Pledges to Build North Bali Airport
Indonesia’s new President, Prabowo Subianto, stated his commitment to developing North Bali Airport during his first official visit to Bali last week. The project would mean a second international airport in the province, a plan which was previously shelved by Jokowi Widodo.
Bali Considers Tourism Development Pause Amid Environmental Concerns
A Moratorium letter from the Indonesian Government has been released with a proposal to limit tourism-related development in Bali, though it's important to note that as of now (late October 2024), the letter is still under discussion and has not been put into force by the Bali Provincial Government. It was signed on October 15, 2024, by Indonesia's Coordinating Minister for Maritime Affairs and Investment, Luhut B. Pandjaitan, and proposes several key measures
Do You Really Need Business Consulting for Your Bali-based Company?
Opening a business in Bali sounds like a dream, until you realize there’s a huge number of regulations, tax obligations and business limitations that you need to be aware of. Nobody pictures themselves filling in a mountain of paperwork instead of relaxing on the beach, but the truth is, setting your business up in the right way from the start is necessary if you want to avoid extra costs later.
Bali in the Balance: Indonesian Government to Halt Land Conversion of Bali’s Green Zones
Bali is famous worldwide as a lush paradise replete with rice fields and palm trees - but will it always be? In recent years, Bali and its residents have been grappling with an ever-growing challenge - how to balance both rapid development and booming tourist sector with the preservation of its nature. Its popularity as a tourist hotspot is hardly slowing down, and as such, the Indonesian government and key stakeholders are taking decisive actions to address the issue.
Indonesia’s New President: What Political Changes Can We Expect from Prabowo?
The 20th of October marks an important political transition for Indonesia, as a day that will welcome a new president in office. In the run up to the changeover, attention is turning to President-elect Prabowo Subianto as he prepares for his five year term. The current President, Jokowi Widodo, will end his term after 10 years in his role leading Southeast Asia’s largest economy.
Living and Working in Bali as an Expat: A Comprehensive Guide
Bali has become a top destination for digital nomads thanks to its beauty and vibrant lifestyle. While practical concerns like visas, internet, healthcare, and community life matter, this guide shows that building a comfortable, connected life in Bali is entirely possible.
Balinese Culture: Why Bali is Called the Island of the Gods
Bali, known as the Island of the Gods, stands out as Indonesia’s only Hindu island. Its deep spiritual traditions, reflected in daily rituals, temples, and ceremonies, along with its natural beauty, have earned it this sacred nickname.
Which Visa Do You Need? The Ultimate Guide to Visas in Bali 2024
Do you live in Bali or would you like to in the future? Or, perhaps you fancy coming here for a quick holiday or trying out something in-between? Whatever your plan is, you’re going to need a visa. Here’s Bali Solve’s ultimate guide to all the visa options available in Indonesia - knowing what your possibilities are should make it much easier for you to plan your stay on this beautiful island.
What’s the Right KITAS for You? Explore All the Different Types of KITAS Here
Do you want to live in Bali long-term? If the answer is yes, then perhaps you need a KITAS. Having one will allow you to stay longer term in Bali and will give you many added benefits that make life here easier and more secure.
Planning a Trip to Bali? Why and How You Should Register Your Phone’s IMEI in Bali
After arriving in Bali, you might feel an undeniable urge to grab your bags, head to your hotel and hit the beach. That’s obviously a great plan, but before you do it, don’t forget to register your phone’s IMEI.
Starting a Business in Bali: A Check-list of Things You Should Know
Starting a business in Bali is an exciting opportunity, but the process can differ significantly from other countries. That’s why it’s important to understand the key requirements and steps before launching your Bali-based venture.
Riding a Motorbike or Scooter in Bali: Driving Safely in Paradise
Bali’s winding roads, full of endless banana trees, rice fields, ocean vistas and charming cafes make for the ultimate motorbike adventure. However, before you start cruising across the island, it’s important to know how to stay safe and legal while riding a motorcycle or scooter in Bali.
So, you want to Live in Bali? Visa Options to Stay Longer in Bali in 2024
Many long-term expats in Bali never planned to settle here. A short holiday simply turned into years of living on the island.
Although recent regulation changes have made Investor KITAS and Working Visas more challenging to obtain, there are still several promising options for those wishing to stay in Bali long-term.
Get Off the Tourist Trail: 4 Incredible Place You Need to Visit in Bali
When most people think of visiting Bali, the first places that spring to mind are probably Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu and Ubud. While these spots are worth a visit, Bali has so many more beautiful places to be discovered if you venture a little off the well-trodden tourist trail. If you’re hoping to see something a bit different during your stay in Bali, add these four destinations to your itinerary.
Delays with Visas, Immigration and Travel Following Cyber Attack on Indonesia’s National Data Center
A cyber attack on Indonesia’s National Data Center resulted in long delays and disruptions to government services, travel, immigration and visa processing last week. A ransomware group known as LockBit is said to be responsible for the attack which impacted approximately 200 government agencies across the country.
Bali's Most Notorious Tourists: What NOT to Do in Bali
After booking a holiday in Bali, most tourists can't wait to soak up some sun, relax on the endless beaches, mingle with the friendly locals and enjoy the magnificent views. While the majority of visitors do manage to enjoy simply kicking back, a few have been deported rather unceremoniously after making headlines for all the wrong reasons. Here's a quick roundup of Bali's most notorious tourists over the last few years.
Let’s work together