In July 2023, I had a conversation with Kylie and Dean from Australia regarding their retirement aspirations in Bali. They were very familar with Bali and had a clear vision of their ideal home there in the Bukit. Having celebrated their wedding there just four months prior, they were eager to explore avenues for a permanent relocation to a place that held immense significance for them. Following our discussion, they wasted no time in listing their home for sale, which was sold in no time. Within a few months, they found themselves boarding a plane to Bali, embarking on the next chapter of their lives. Below, they generously share the details of their journey in a delightful interview.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? Where are you originally from?
Self funded retires, I am Kylie 53 and Dean is 62. We are from Mermaid Waters on the Gold coast.
What motivated you to retire to Bali, and how did you go about making the decision to do so?
I have been coming to Bali for 30 years and Dean for the past 10 years . So we always talked about retiring in Bali. We were married here March 2023 and made the decision upon returning that it was now or never. We want to enjoy it while we are still fit and healthy enough to enjoy the things we love doing here – surfing, yoga and exploring the island. So we sold everything and landed here last November the same year.
How did you prepare for your retirement and the move to Bali? Did you encounter any challenges during the process? What was it like getting the support and information services from Our Year in Bali?
Our Year in Bali sealed the deal for us! Everything was so easy – we purchased the Silver package and that was it. We were introduced to everyone we needed like visa, banking, insurance and everything was sorted. I couldn’t believe how much easier it was, after months of fumbling around online trying to do it myself, giving up so many times!!! Thankyou – you made it possible.
Which part of Bali is your home located in, and what influenced your decision to settle there?
Balangan, we live in the community village. We didn’t want to live in the tourist areas, its nice for a visit but peace and quiet is what we were after. We are only 5 to 10 mins to all the best surfing beaches, walking distance to our gym, cafes, and traditional markets. We have been coming to this area for many years now. We have also been rightaround the island, and visited other islands here as well, but the Bukit has always been our favourite.
What type of housing have you decided to do?
We bought the villa we were renting and decided to do a renovation project. We instantly new this was our place!
What activities or hobbies have you pursued since retiring in Bali and looking forward to do?
We have been renovating!!!! Pelan Pelan!!! We also adopted 2 dogs and someone kindly placed 3 kittens on our driveway which we are now taking care of !!! There is time for gym, yoga and the beach though.
I must say we’ve had people from Australia here nearly every week so we’ve been off catching up with them also. Renovations are nearly finished just the final touches – there have been so many public holidays in Bali over the last month.
What do you think are the biggest misconceptions about Bali, and how would you correct them?
Food!!! Bali belly!!! Personally I have never had Bali belly myself and your are missing out on some truly amazing traditional foods if you don’t venture out of your favourite cafes.
How have you adapted to the local customs and traditions in Bali, and what have you learned from the experience?
We are very fortunate we have many Balinese friends who have been in our life for years , so they keep us informed on how things work. We have been to a wedding and many ceremonies they are beautiful and meaningful.
How have you found the retirement and expat community to be like in the Bukit?
We meet so many different people from all over the world of all ages, we love listening to everyone’s stories and what brought them to the island and what they like and dislike about certain areas. You are never lonely.
How long do you feel it will take to settle in, what sort of things do you need to do to get in a routine?
Probably about three months once we found our place, got bank accounts, phones and insurance sorted, bought a scooter, found staff we could trust etc Things then started to fall into place.
Please share a day in a life in the Bukit.
Early mornings walk with the dogs to Dreamland beach, stop off at our favourite little warung for some Nasi Kuning or I cook at breakfast at home. Quick trip up to the traditional markets for meat, vegetables and fruit. Mid morning off to the gym, cook lunch, relax around pool, little afternoon rest, and afternoon surf. Happy hour catch up with friends. Dinner usually out. Every day is a little different but we certainly like to get these things in most days.
Has your perspective on life and retirement changed since moving to Bali?
We could not be be happier – life is just easier here. If you really want something, you will make work. The freedom we have is a breath of fresh air. We were so busy just working to live and not really living. For sure we miss our family and friends, but in the end, it’s only 5 or so hours by plane away.
What advice would you give to someone considering retiring in Bali?
Don’t bring a lot of things with you becuase you will not need it! Really know where you want to live. If you are buying here, don’t trust everyone and do it through the right channels.
