Ever wondered what it takes to create a fulfilling life and thriving business in Bali, while raising a family? Meet Eva, a half-Swiss, half-Indonesian entrepreneur and mother who left behind city life in London to build something truly meaningful in Bali.
In this candid conversation, Eva opens up about her journey: from finding the right neighbourhood and schools, to launching a holistic wellness brand, and embracing a slower, more intentional pace of life. Whether you’re dreaming of a move or just curious about family life abroad, this interview is full of grounded insights and inspiration.
Tell us a little about yourself
My name is Eva, and I am half Swiss, half Indonesian. Growing up as a third culture kid, I lived and worked in various places.
From buzzing London to the African West Coast of The Gambia, I truly enjoy exploring cultures, their flavours, and what makes them special.
How long have you been here, and how long do you plan to stay?
I’ve been in Bali for almost 10 years. I started by living in Nusa Dua, then made my way up to Seminyak, then Umalas, then Canggu, Pererenan, Kedungu, and now I live in Cemagi.
How long I will stay is a very tricky question I can’t seem to answer just yet. But that’s a positive sign that I’m not done with Mama Bali!
I’ve yet to live in a place that offers such an abundance of work-life-family balance, so it is very hard for me to find another place that tops this. Eventually, I’d love to explore a few summer months in Europe, in combination with continuing to live here.
What inspired your move?
Back then, I used to say that you only make big moves for work or love. In my case, it was the latter.
What made you choose that neighbourhood, and how would you describe the community?
I now live in Cemagi, and I am so blessed to have found our little slice of heaven amidst rice paddies (still!).
Cemagi to me is this sleepy, residential, very family-devoted neighbourhood. We recognise each other whilst driving on scooters and keep bumping into the same families in cafés, Pilates studios, and on beaches. This gives a big sense of belonging.
The reason why I also kept on moving further north each time was the rise in rental prices and the massive developments.
Can you tell us a bit about your work situation in Bali?
I run a coaching business on holistic detoxification.
We also have a Bali-based company called Live Essences, focusing on nourishing our gut health and overall wellbeing.
We offer skincare, wellness drinks, online courses, self-guides, in-person coaching, workshops, and offline retreats.
Bali has been such a great opportunity for me to flourish my business, as it’s all about feeling vital, healthy eating, self-love, slowing down, and inviting in growth.
The good thing is that most of my clients are Europe-based, which gives me the freedom to go for a surf or Pilates in the morning, meet up with a girlfriend over coffee, or get some work done beforehand.
Now that we’ve been so accustomed to working online, I connect mostly over Zoom.
What school did you choose for your children, and why was it the right fit?
Chloe’s first school, which she attended during the pandemic, was Bloom Boutique a homeschool that in 2023 transformed into a beautiful school here in Cemagi, just a minute from where we live.
Chloe is now in Canggu Community School, Berawa, which is very different from Bloom. It’s bigger and more spacious, gives an “international vibe,” and Chloe is absolutely thriving. She loves going to school every day.
My younger daughter, Nalua, who is 1 year old, started baby classes once a week at Bloom, and we are excited to fully enroll her once she’s ready to join.
How does everyday life in Bali compare to back home financially?
People usually experience two things on Bali: either it’s super expensive or it’s cheap.
And that just comes down to the lifestyle you choose. Yes, there are amazing, high-end, lavish restaurants and beach clubs. Yes, you can rent the most insane villas. And yes, you can spend a lot of money going shopping here.
Because shops in Bali are mostly limited to boutiques, I’ve found it hard not to go overboard with my budget when I shop at Indigo Luna or Studio K (both amazing brands for everyday wear). Divine Goddess is another shop here in Canggu that offers nice yoga clothes.
Bali features so many gorgeous dresses. I spent last weekend in Uluwatu, and there are so many new cute boutiques with starting prices of USD 200 for a dress.
I understand if you’re on vacation, you want to treat yourself. But for someone like me who’s been here for so long, I’ve found it challenging to find mid-range or specific wear (such as maternity).
I also find supermarkets very expensive, mainly because most of it is imported. But the good news is: there are so many farmers that offer home delivery with their fresh fruit and veggie baskets.
I just received my basket today, and that just makes me happy, to focus on what grows here in abundance and support local businesses.
How have you found the medical and health services so far?
I’ve actually been really lucky that I haven’t needed to make use of healthcare here on Bali, as I’ve mostly focused on preventative health.
Bali, in that sense, ticks all the boxes: exotic fruits, massages, flowing with my circadian rhythm, spending lots of time on the beach, and being surrounded by the kindest local people.
I gave birth to both my daughters here and highly recommend it. Bali is a paradise for being pregnant, giving birth, and experiencing postpartum, the support is just unmatched.
You don’t want to cook? Order GoJek. Want some pampering? Have ladies come over to do your nails and a massage.
Need support with the kids? Book a nanny. And the nannies here absolutely adore the kids; it’s just so beautiful to watch.
So I have to say, the support here is a big factor: laundry and cleaning services, and Bali is also a destination where everything is done online. I barely leave my house as everything can be delivered, from groceries to clothes to food. Even vets and doctors do home visits.
What does a typical day look like for you and your family in Bali?
I currently have a nanny who supports us for a few hours in the morning.
This gives me time to go for a surf, Pilates, coffee, do some work, or just chill at home.
My husband drives Chloe to school at 7:30 AM, and her nanny picks her up at 3 PM and usually drives her to an after-school activity in town, such as dancing or basketball.
In the afternoons, I usually take a few Zoom calls, spend lots of quality time with the baby and my partner. We either cook something at home or go to our favourite dinner spots nearby.
Currently, we love Mirai Sushi in Seseh—haha. Little Ripper in Kedungu is also cute. Chloe loves the pizzas in Riviera Café, Cemagi. Or we just drive into Pererenan, which gives us plenty of food options.
Once a week, I get my massage therapist to come over to the house. I also enjoy acupuncture or going for a sauna/steam session nearby.
What are some common misconceptions about Bali?
I believe Bali is very different when you come here for a few weeks on vacation versus actually making a living.
Making a living can be very hard, and I’ve seen many friends struggle to get work KITAS sponsored (the fee is also very costly, and I need that for my daughters, too).
When I used to come only for holidays, I felt like I was in a honeymoon bubble, travelling to Ubud and Sidemen.
But the reality is, now that I have a family, it’s so hard to get around by car, because traffic is just madness. Most of the time, I cancel plans because the hassle is too big.
Also, as a family, things can get expensive considering the high tuition fees and KITAS costs.
What should other families think about before making the move?
To have enough savings and a business with consistent income. Yes, I would advise them more on budgeting.
For example, back home, I would get maternity leave or compensation during COVID times. That doesn’t happen on Bali.
I would also advise families, when looking into housing, to check for mould, which is a big challenge we all face here.
Bali can also be very fleeting. I’ve noticed how difficult it is for me to make friends, as it’s an island that is very transitional. Many people leave after a few months or years.
So long-lasting friendships can be rare, but once you do make friends, the intensity of connection, love, and support happens very fast.
Is there anything else about your Bali experience you’d love to share?
I have deep admiration for any family wanting to spend time here.
It’s such a nourishing, supportive, and loving place to raise your kids. Not only that, but the relationship you have with your partner can also strengthen due to the increase in presence.
Bali has this magic that makes you feel very connected and held.
