Michelle, a UK expat, left her recruitment career in London for Bali’s tranquility. Founder of Remote Rebellion, she advocates for remote work and embraces Balinese culture. Balancing work with beach adventures and spiritual pursuits, Michelle thrives in Padonan near Canggu. For her, Bali offers not just scenic beauty but also personal growth and freedom.
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and where are you originally from?
I’m Michelle, from the UK. I was a recruiter for 7 years until the pandemic made me take stock of my life and what I wanted. I was miserable in London and my friend was living his best life in Bali it seemed. Seeing as the office I worked at was closed for the foreseeable, in April 2021, I seized the opportunity to work from Bali until the office opened. Then when the call came 2 months later “come back to London.” and I thought “hell no”!
So I quit my job and for the past 3 years I’ve been helping others to work remotely so they can live with more freedom!
Where in Bali do you live, and what made you choose that location?
I live in Padonan, just outside of Canggu. I chose it because it’s not quite ‘in the thick of it’ but 5 minutes walk to my gym, Wanderlust and 10 mins to the beach! I have 3 bedroom villa I share with 2 friends and 2 dogs and I love it there.
With over 10 years of experience in global recruitment and digital agencies, you founded Remote Rebellion during the pandemic. Tell us more.
I work with individuals first by figuring out exactly what they can/ want to do remotely, then we create a strategy get there. That involves knowing where to find fully remote opportunities (not those fake hybrid jobs), and how to apply so that you get noticed amongst the competition and then how to interview so impressively you land your ideal remote job! There’s way more to it than that of course, but this is the crux of it! You can find more info about Remote Rebellion here.
I am also pleased to pass on a 10% saving when you sign up to our programs – just use coupon code OYIB.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced when moving to Bali?
Finding a community of like minded people. You have your spiritual lot, your gym bros, cryto crew, influencers- its about finding YOUR tribe.
How has living in Bali opened up new hobbies or activities for you?
I did crossfit and surfed before coming here, but i do both much more since moving here and have made such improvements.
I’ve really leaned into my spirituality here and have started breath work since coming here which has changed my outlook on life!
Adapting to the local customs and traditions in Bali must have been an interesting experience. What have you learned and enjoyed from immersing yourself in the local culture?
Yes, wow. The Balinese culture is probably one of the most fascinating. They have a ceremony for everything, and the whole village gets involved!
I love how even the younger generation are passing on the traditions, the offerings to the gods, visiting the temple, the ceremonies- it’s really beautiful.
In what ways has residing in Bali impacted both your personal and professional life? Have you discovered unique opportunities here?
It’s completely changed my life for the better. Bali has some kind of spiritual calling that I’ve never felt anywhere else. So many others say the same thing. I’ve realised so much about myself and met some wonderful humans.
my business wouldn’t exist if I hadn’t been called to do it in Bali!
What do you think are the biggest misconceptions about Bali, and how would you correct them?
That it’s all white sands and picturesque beaches.
Nope, there’s traffic, rubbish and imperfections- but no place is perfect and I love it all the same.
Could you walk us through a typical day in Bali for you?
6am – Wake up and catch the sunrise on the beach with my dog
7am – Crossfit class at wanderlust
8am – Ice bath and sauna
9am – Start my working day in one of the many cafes
12pm – Meet a friend for lunch
1-4pm -Work
5pm – Surf or sunset coconut on the beach
7pm – Dinner out
What would you say is the best thing about living in Bali?
There isn’t one! The weather, the people, the laid back atmosphere, the food, the freedom!
