Living in Bali as an Expat: The Top 8 Cultural Shocks You’ll Experience
Beyond Paradise: The Surprising Realities of Expat Life in Bali
Moving to Bali is like entering a tropical paradise, a dream destination for many expats around the world. But despite its beauty and allure, living in Bali as an expat can come with its fair share of surprises.
Let me take you through my personal experience of what it’s like to live on this magical island, from the unexpected challenges to the joyful moments.
It all began with the online visa registration. After filling out the form for half an hour, the process got stuck. Repeatedly, I tried to pay the $32 visa fee, only to have my card declined one day before my flight from Bangkok to Denpasar, Bali. Frustration was building, but I powered through.
The next adventure was at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport. Confident I had arrived with plenty of time, I realized my flight was actually leaving from Don Mueang Airport, 45 minutes away. Using the Indrive app, I got there just in time, and my Bali adventure officially began.
The laid-back, easygoing Bali vibe already started on the flight itself. The plane was filled with surfers, their energy and attire making me feel like I was heading to a laid-back, Hawaiian-style beach escape. I even met a cool Indian guy who recommended a famous club in Bali called La Favela, which turned out to be a top-notch tip.
After landing in Bali and waiting in line for passport control for about 45 minutes, the whole process took just 15 seconds. Then came the customs routine — following the crowd, clicking a few buttons on a computer, and declaring any valuables. This was just a small taste of what Bali life would be like: a mix of patience, crowds, and surprises.
Despite the hiccups, Bali is one of the few places — alongside Brazil and Italy — that instantly made me want to settle down. You’ll understand why soon.
Here are the top 8 cultural shocks I experienced in Bali, things that expats should be aware of before making the move.
1. The Extreme Availability of Motorbike Taxis
From the moment you step off the plane, you’ll be bombarded by offers for motorbike taxis. Bali has a massive gig economy, and the motorbike-to-car ratio is easily 90 to 10. Even random motorbike owners will ask you, “Bike, boss? Transport?”
Don’t be fooled by the high prices they quote, as expats (or bule, as they call foreigners) often get charged 5–10 times the usual fare. The trick? Download Gojek or Indrive the minute you arrive, grab a cheap SIM card, and use these apps for affordable, reliable transportation.
Gojek drivers are always on time, and easily become friends with you, engaging in quality conversations about culture, family, Bali, and more. They also ensure you reach your exact destination, even if the navigation or app makes a mistake, often going out of their way to do so.
2. Traffic is Chaotic, But Peaceful
In Bali, traffic may seem like pure chaos at first glance. Motorbikes zigzag around cars, and the density of vehicles during rush hour is intense.
However, what might shock you is how calm and serene it feels.
No one honks aggressively, no one yells, and no one rushes to overtake. It’s a peaceful flow of traffic, a form of collective patience and cooperation that perfectly reflects Balinese culture. This experience is a great lesson in how to let go of ego and embrace the harmony of the island.
3. Trust Over Documentation
If you’re used to the paperwork-heavy procedures of the West, Bali will be a shock. Renting a house in Bali is as simple as finding one online, visiting the same day, and moving in the next.
No credit checks, no bank statements, and often no deposits.
Bali runs on mutual trust, and this extends to almost every transaction, whether you’re renting a scooter or getting a driver’s license. It’s a refreshing change, but it can be hard to wrap your head around if you come from a country where documentation is king.
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4. Surprisingly High Level of English
One thing that immediately struck me is how well most Balinese people speak English. Whether it’s a local vendor, a Gojek driver, or an older resident, nearly everyone seems fluent.
Many locals learn English through songs and YouTube at a young age. Walk into a local club, and you’ll find everyone singing English songs like it’s a karaoke night. It’s quite an experience to be in a place where English isn’t the official language but feels like a second home language.
5. Balinese Warmth and Gratitude
One of the most heartwarming cultural shocks is the genuine warmth and gratitude of the Balinese people. Despite the influx of tourism and the rise of capitalism, their kindness hasn’t waned.
From the moment you arrive, you’ll be greeted with smiles and warmth. This is deeply rooted in their Hindu beliefs, which emphasize gratitude, respect for elders, and community spirit. The Balinese culture of gratitude permeates everything, and it’s something that will make you feel welcome and at home.
6. Temples Everywhere and Daily Offerings
Bali is a deeply spiritual island, and you’ll quickly notice that almost every home has its own temple, known as Pura.
Religion is a central part of life here, and daily offerings of flowers, called canang sari, are placed in front of homes and businesses as a sign of gratitude.
These rituals are a beautiful reminder of the spiritual richness of the island, and as an expat, you’ll quickly get used to the sight of flower petals and incense everywhere.
7. Affordable Prices and Low Inflation
For such a tourist-heavy destination, the prices in Bali are surprisingly low. You can rent a hotel room in the heart of Bali for as little as $10 per day, and a villa for $1,000 per month.
A Gojek motorbike ride costs just $1, and a meal at a local warung can be as cheap as $2. Renting a scooter will set you back only $100 per month, and filling up the tank costs a mere $4.
That said, some things like fruit and chocolate can be oddly expensive. But overall, Bali’s affordability is a welcome surprise for many expats.
What’s best about food in Bali is that it’s healthy. You rarely see obese people on the streets. There is hardly any bread, and they eat a lot of fish, rice, chicken, and vegetables.
Restaurants always welcome you with a menu, and when you check any café or restaurant on Google Maps, you can see their menu and current prices without exception.”
8. Coffee Culture and Café Variety
Starbucks may dominate the café scene worldwide, but not in Bali. Here, you’ll find countless stylish and affordable cafés within walking distance of almost anywhere.
The café culture is thriving, offering great coffee, reliable Wi-Fi, and Instagram-worthy interiors. Prices are also far lower than Starbucks, with a cup of coffee costing between $1.50 and $3 at local spots. It’s easy to see why Starbucks takes a backseat in Bali’s vibrant café scene.
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