Our year in Bali

Our year in Bali Dreaming of Bali? You’ve got this 🌴
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Live boldly, move smart — Bali awaits. Book your FREE 30-min call Discovery 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 w

ith essential living resources to help 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!

27/05/2026

Sometimes moving to Bali isn’t about “escaping.”
Sometimes it’s about finally being able to breathe.

For Emmy, Bali became a place where she could feel safe, slow down, afford a better quality of life, and stop living in survival mode.

“Coming here and having an entire year to have leisure mornings… I’m going to take it.”

From the rising costs of living in the U.S. to finally enjoying fresh food, peace of mind, and a slower rhythm of life, her story is one so many families and individuals relate to more than ever.

Relocating isn’t always easy, but hearing stories like this reminds us why people choose Bali in the first place.

If you’re thinking about relocating to Bali and don’t know where to start, we offer a free discovery call to help guide you through the process.

Book Now: https://calendly.com/ouryearinbali/30min

Follow for more real Bali relocation stories and client experiences.

One of the most common things we hear from expats in Bali:"I can't find a good GP here."Here's the honest answer: you're...
26/05/2026

One of the most common things we hear from expats in Bali:

"I can't find a good GP here."

Here's the honest answer: you're not going to, at least not the way you're looking.

The Indonesian healthcare system wasn't built around the GP model most Westerners are used to. A dokter umum's job is triage and referral. The ongoing, preventative relationship with a doctor who knows you, that simply isn't how the system is structured.

The mistake most expats make is expecting one doctor to fill that role. They try home-visit doctors (the economics rarely work in anyone's favor), clinic-hop and re-explain their history every visit, or do nothing until something goes wrong.

The expats who navigate healthcare well here do something different. They build a system.

A clinic they return to consistently. A shortlist of trusted specialists they've identified before they need them. And, the piece most people miss is a coordination layer. Someone who holds the thread between test results, referrals, and medical history. Back home, that was your GP. In Bali, that role is empty by default.

This is exactly what Padma Care provides. A dedicated health advisor who knows your full history, coordinates across specialists, and is reachable on WhatsApp when something comes up, giving you the GP experience through a different model.

Learn more about how it works: https://ouryearinbali.com/indonesian-healthcare-system-padmacare/?v=b80bb7740288

Why are so many families in Bali moving away from traditional education models?One of the biggest shifts we’re seeing ac...
26/05/2026

Why are so many families in Bali moving away from traditional education models?

One of the biggest shifts we’re seeing across Bali schools is the growing demand for progressive education — learning environments that prioritise curiosity, creativity, emotional wellbeing, and real-world experiences alongside academics.

For many expat families relocating to Bali, education is no longer just about test scores. Parents are looking for schools that help children become:
✔️ Independent thinkers
✔️ Confident communicators
✔️ Creative problem-solvers
✔️ Emotionally resilient

This is why inquiry-based, experiential, and project-based learning models are growing rapidly across the island.

Bali’s natural environment makes it an ideal place for this style of education, where outdoor learning, community connection, and hands-on experiences become part of everyday school life.

Schools like Uluwatu School are part of this growing movement, offering a more student-centred approach that focuses on both academic development and personal growth.

Learn More: https://uluwatuschool.org/why-progressive-education-is-growing-in-bali/

For families considering a move to Bali, understanding the different education styles available is one of the most important parts of the relocation journey.

If you’re exploring schools in Bali and want help understanding which environments may suit your child best, book a School Deep Dive with us. We’re happy to guide you through the options: https://ouryearinbali.com/bali-school-consultation/?v=b80bb7740288

25/05/2026

A lot of people worry about healthcare before moving to Bali, especially when it comes to emergencies or getting sick unexpectedly.

In this reel, our client shares his real experience after getting Bali Belly and needing medical assistance late at night. A doctor, nurse, and mini ambulance arrived directly to his villa within around 20 minutes, providing treatment including antibiotics and IV fluids from the comfort of his home.

What many expats don’t realise is that Bali has a large network of private clinics and international-standard healthcare services, particularly in areas popular with long-term residents. Home visits, fast response times, and English-speaking medical staff are far more common than many people expect before relocating here.

As Bali continues to develop its healthcare infrastructure, many expats say they feel safer and more supported living here long-term than they originally imagined.

Book a free discovery call with us or explore our Bali relocation services through the link in bio.

Thinking about moving to Bali? Relocating to a new country is exciting, but it also comes with a long list of important ...
21/05/2026

Thinking about moving to Bali?

Relocating to a new country is exciting, but it also comes with a long list of important decisions: visas, housing, schools, healthcare, budgeting, and choosing the right area to live.

Many families and individuals find that trying to figure it all out alone takes years — and often leads to costly mistakes.

That’s exactly why Our Year in Bali exists.
We help families, retirees, couples, and remote professionals move to Bali with clarity, confidence, and trusted support.

Here’s how we support your move:
✔ Free discovery call to understand your plans
✔ Step-by-step relocation guidance
✔ Bronze, Silver, and Gold support packages
✔ Trusted local contacts and insider insights
✔ Detailed guides covering every stage of your move

Whether you’re:
• Planning your move within the next year
• Dreaming about life in Bali
• Or already on the island and feeling unsure

We help you make informed decisions and avoid unnecessary stress and expenses.

Book your free call or explore our relocation packages today: https://calendly.com/ouryearinbali/30min?

19/05/2026

What is the real cost of living in Bali compared to Paris or other major European cities?

After relocating from France to Ubud, Bali, Alice says her overall living costs are now around half of what she previously spent in Paris, while experiencing a significantly better quality of life.

According to her experience, some of the biggest differences include:

More affordable accommodation and daily expenses
Accessible healthcare with fast appointment availability
Lower transport costs through scooter rentals
Affordable wellness activities like yoga and fitness classes
Access to weekly cleaning and laundry services that would often be considered luxury expenses in Europe

But beyond affordability, Alice says the biggest change has been lifestyle.

Living in Ubud allowed her to create a slower and more balanced routine while continuing to work remotely with international clients. Instead of spending most of her time commuting or navigating the pressures of city life, she found more space for health, community, and personal well-being.

For many expats, digital nomads, and remote workers considering moving to Bali, the conversation is no longer only about saving money. It is about whether Bali offers a better overall lifestyle compared to large cities like Paris, London, or Sydney.

In Alice’s case, Bali became more than a temporary destination. It became home.

If you are considering relocating to Bali and want personalised guidance, book a free discovery call with our team or explore our relocation services at ouryearinbali.com

You can also watch Alice’s full relocation story and reel on our YouTube channel.

The British curriculum in Bali is typically based on the English National Curriculum, the same framework used across sch...
19/05/2026

The British curriculum in Bali is typically based on the English National Curriculum, the same framework used across schools in the UK. It is structured into clear Key Stages from Early Years through to secondary education, with defined learning goals at each stage. For families living internationally, its main strength is continuity, children remain aligned with UK academic expectations, making transitions between countries and schools much smoother.

At primary level, the focus is not only on core academics like English, Maths, and Science, but also on developing creativity, confidence, communication skills, and a broad understanding of subjects such as the arts, humanities, and physical education. It is a balanced system that combines structured learning with whole-child development.

In Bali, this curriculum is delivered at British School of Bali, which offers a genuine UK-aligned education in an international setting.

- Located in Tegallalang, Ubud, on a purpose-built campus designed for both indoor and outdoor learning
- Follows the English National Curriculum
- Taught by UK-qualified teachers
- Currently offers Early Years and Primary education (ages 2–11)
- Small class sizes with strong teacher-to-student ratios
- Structured academic progression aligned with UK year groups
- A growing school with planned expansion into secondary years
- Combines academic structure with a nature-integrated learning environment shaped by its Bali setting

Learn more: https://ouryearinbali.com/british-curriculum-in-bali-2026-guide/

Visit The British School of Bali Website: https://www.britishschool.id/

One of the biggest challenges in education today is that many schools are still preparing students for a world that is c...
15/05/2026

One of the biggest challenges in education today is that many schools are still preparing students for a world that is changing rapidly.

AI, entrepreneurship, adaptability, communication skills, and creative problem-solving are becoming just as important as traditional academics. More families are now asking not only “Will my child get good grades?” but also “Will my child be prepared for the future?”

In our latest interview, Simone Collins spoke with Angie Stead, Director of ProEd Global School Bali, about how education in Bali is evolving to meet those changes.

The conversation explored:
• Why personalized learning is becoming increasingly important
• How schools can help students identify their strengths early
• The role AI and entrepreneurship will play in future education
• Why future-ready skills matter alongside academic achievement
• How ProEd Global School is combining Cambridge academics with innovation and real-world learning

One insight Angie shared that stood out:
“We need to prepare students for the world they will live in, not the world we lived in.”

For families considering international education in Bali, this interview offers a valuable look at where education may be heading over the next decade.

Watch the full interview on YouTube and explore the full article to learn more.
YouTube Interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qXv3676T978
Full Article: https://ouryearinbali.com/proed-global-school-scholarships-cambridge/

We also discussed the newly launched ProEd Global x Genius School scholarship programmes, including full and partial scholarships for students ages 3–18 across the Umalas and Nuanu campuses.

Learn More About the Scholarship Program & Register Now: https://proedschool.com/scholarship/

What if school prepared children not just for exams, but for the future of AI, entrepreneurship, creativity, and real life?In this conversation, Simone Colli...

Discover Education for Young Learners at Green School BaliCurious what learning looks like for children ages 3–11 at Gre...
13/05/2026

Discover Education for Young Learners at Green School Bali

Curious what learning looks like for children ages 3–11 at Green School Bali? Recently, Simone from Our Year in Bali visited the campus and met Pana, Head of Lower School. Pana shared how the program guides young learners to develop not only academic foundations but also creativity, confidence, and leadership skills essential for the modern world.

Green School Lower School goes beyond traditional classroom learning. Students engage in hands-on, nature-based projects, explore the jungle, participate in sustainability initiatives, and collaborate with peers from around the world. Every activity is designed to connect learning with real-life experiences, empowering children to apply knowledge, problem-solve, and grow as thoughtful, capable young leaders.

Highlights of the Lower School experience include:
Open-air classrooms surrounded by lush greenery
Student-led projects that foster creativity, autonomy, and resilience
Experiential learning opportunities, from biomimicry experiments to community service initiatives

A multicultural, collaborative environment that encourages empathy, social skills, and global awareness

This approach ensures children are not only prepared academically but also equipped with the skills, confidence, and mindset to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

- Read the full article here: https://ouryearinbali.com/green-school-bali-for-young-learners-ages-3-11/
- Watch Simone’s campus visit on YouTube: https://youtu.be/r9PBKwJ-dck
- Learn more about Green School Bali: https://www.greenschool.org

“Sometimes clarity comes after taking the first step.”One of the things that stood out most from our client Alice’s relo...
12/05/2026

“Sometimes clarity comes after taking the first step.”

One of the things that stood out most from our client Alice’s relocation story was not simply the move itself, but the mindset behind it.

After leaving corporate life in France, Alice spent several years travelling before eventually arriving in Bali for the very first time in 2025, already knowing she wanted to build a life here.

Before making the move, Alice purchased our Silver Package to help her better understand the realities of relocating to Bali long term, from settling into the island to preparing for a completely new chapter abroad.

No perfect plan. No certainty. Just a strong feeling that it was time for a different way of living.

Today, she calls Ubud home.

Her story is a reminder that relocating abroad is often about much more than changing countries. For many people, it becomes an opportunity to slow down, rethink priorities, improve quality of life, and create a lifestyle that feels more aligned personally and professionally.

Read more about Alice’s journey to Bali: https://ouryearinbali.com/france-to-ubud-bali-relocation-story/

And if you’re considering relocating to Bali yourself, you can also explore our services or book a free discovery call with us: https://ouryearinbali.com/our-services/

11/05/2026

“Bali was calling me from afar for a long time.”

One of the most interesting parts of our client Alice’s story is that she moved to Bali without ever visiting the island beforehand.

For years, she felt drawn to Bali not only because of its tropical lifestyle and natural beauty, but also because of the island’s rich culture, spirituality, and strong international community.

After leaving corporate life in France, she wanted a different rhythm of living — somewhere that felt more aligned with wellbeing, meaningful connections, and personal growth.

So in 2025, she decided to trust that feeling and make the move.

Today, she calls Ubud home.

Sometimes relocating abroad isn’t simply about changing countries. It’s about creating a life that feels more intentional and aligned with who you are becoming.

If you’re curious about what relocating to Bali could realistically look like, explore our services or book a free discovery call with us through the link in bio.

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