Meet: Tomaz, Brigita and Luka Bracko
Originally from: Slovenia, Ljubljana
Arrived in Bali: August 2022
What experience did you have with Our Year in Bali and Simone assisting you?
Because of Simone’s detailed explanation of what to be aware of, what are the expenses of living in Bali, and a wider introduction to Bali life, the school system, etc. we decided to move.
What made you move to Bali?
We’ve never moved anywhere before. It all came together, and we can work remotely as entrepreneurs in the sleep and hypnotherapy industry. Simone’s experiences and all tips we got regarding acceptable expenses in Bali led us to decide to move to Bali.
Where is home in Bali and why did you decide to live there?
We decided on Canggu, as it was essential for us to have a school for our son near our home. We are staying at Berawa, near Canggu Comunity School.
How long do you plan to stay?
The first plan was to stay one school year, but plans are already changing, and almost for sure, we will prolong it for another year.
What does school life look like and raising Luka?
We had concerns about changing schools for Luka. He was not speaking English well, only some basics, as he is 8 years old. Even though they were learning English in Slovenia, he wasn’t on the level to speak and use it in daily life. After 3 months in Bali, he speaks English almost fluently. From day one, he likes CCS, the programs, and how they learn. There is less pressure on the kids, but the knowledge they gain is high. We are happy as every day he is going happily to school.
What are the biggest challenges you have found so far?
The biggest challenge so far is connected with our work, as we should shift and reorganize our work. But it was an excellent opportunity to jump out of the daily routine and start with new things we would never realize in our home country. But the rest of the challenges were really sweet ones – driving a motorbike, learning to surf, and finding the best restaurants 🙂
How do you find healthcare? Do you feel safe?
We had first-month experiences with health care as Luka had some bacterias issues, which is widespread here. They treated him very well and took blood twice to make a correct diagnosis. They even made an ultrasound of his kidneys to be sure it was only bacteria, even though they had all blood tests before and confirmed it. We also went to a dentist check-up with Luka, which was a complete western experience – a new clinic, an X-ray they did in a regular check-up, and a tartar cleaning. So, we feel very safe about health care.
What does your daily routine look like?
We woke up early because we were also going to sleep earlier than we did in Slovenia. Luka goes to school at 8.30. We work after in some cafes or at home sometimes. We like to go to the gym or surf when we have time. We have daily lunch, two of us or with some friends. As we are still working with some Slovenian clients, we have to work sometimes in the afternoon or evening. When we are not busy, and if there is no rain in the afternoon, we love to spend it on the beach for the sunset. A few days per week, we go for a dinner out. Otherwise, we cook at home. On weekends we usually plan trips around the island, but when we stay in Canggu, we love to spend it on the beach.
How do you get around Bali?
For now, we are using only motorbikes. But when you need a long-distance drive Grab or Gojek car is the best and most cost-effective solution.
What is the best thing about living in Bali?
All year summer is one of the best things here, as at the moment in Slovenia we already have some snow. We love the relaxing vibe, and you don’t have a feeling of pressure and constant hurry. There is no difference between weekdays and weekends; the vibe is always the same. People are relaxed and kind.
What advice do you have for other families making the move to Bali?
Do it as soon as possible, as you won’t regret it :). But anyway, prepare everything before, and do some good research on how to do things. One essential thing we have learned here is that you should do the things like others does. Listen to experiences, and don’t try to make them different. Good research is most important before you move.
Is there anything else you would like to share that I haven’t asked?
If you haven’t experienced moving, especially in Asia, it will throw you out of your comfort zone. Please take this opportunity and learn from it as much as you can. It changed our life a lot, in a positive way. It allows us to think out of the box.