Roberta and Zac, originally from Brazil and New Zealand, made the leap in August 2024 and haven’t looked back. With backgrounds in sales and business, they came for the lifestyle but stayed for the deeper connections and slower pace of life.
In this honest and practical conversation, they open up about moving with kids, navigating schooling, healthcare, housing, and finding purpose through faith and community work. Whether you’re dreaming of relocating or just curious about family life on the island, their story offers inspiration and grounded advice for making Bali feel like home.
Tell us a little about yourselves
We’re Roberta and Zac, originally from Brazil and New Zealand. We both come from a background in sales and business, and we share a passion for meaningful work, family, and building community wherever we go.
When did you move to Bali, and how long do you plan to stay?
We made the move to Bali in August 2024, and our intention is to stay long-term. We truly feel at home here and are excited to raise our family in such a vibrant and welcoming environment.
What were the key reasons that led you to relocate to Bali?
After spending a few holidays in Bali, we fell in love with the lifestyle and culture. We wanted our kids to experience life abroad and be immersed in different perspectives and ways of living. It was a conscious decision to slow down, connect more as a family, and embrace a new adventure.
How did you come across Our Year in Bali, and why was the service valuable to you?
We found Our Year in Bali online, and Simone came into our lives at the perfect time. As newcomers, we were overwhelmed, but she supported us in so many ways, not just with logistics, but with practical advice and emotional support. Her guidance made a huge difference during those first few months.
Where do you live in Bali?
We’re based in Berawa. We chose this area because it’s close to our church, the padel courts, and some of our favorite cafés. Through church and sport, we’ve built a beautiful sense of community here. It already feels like home, and we’re grateful for the friendships we’ve made so quickly.
What school did you choose for your children, and why was it the right fit?
We initially enrolled our kids in a small school called Sky Walker in Seseh. It was a good start for the transition, but after six months, we decided to move them to Sunrise School, which offers a stronger structure, more support, and a wider variety of sports and extracurricular activities. It’s been a great fit for our family.
How does everyday life in Bali compare to back home financially?
Financially, the cost of living for us is relatively similar to New Zealand. While rent in Bali, especially in popular areas, can be quite expensive, we find that food, lifestyle, and having home help like cleaners are much more affordable. The trade-off is worth it for the lifestyle we now enjoy.
How have you found the Medical and Health services so far?
We’ve had no issues with healthcare here. We’ve used hospitals, 24-hour clinics, and local GPs and have always received good care. The facilities are clean, accessible, and reassuring, especially when you have kids.
What does a typical day look like for you and your family in Bali?
We have three kids, so our day usually starts with the school run. After that, we work from home, often breaking up the day with a beach walk or a quick padel game. The pace is slower here, and we love being able to enjoy everyday moments together as a family.
What are some common misconceptions about Bali, and what would you say to set the record straight?
The famous “Bali Belly” isn’t something we’ve experienced, and we’re vegan! We brush our teeth in the shower, wash veggies with tap water, and eat out regularly. For us, it’s never been about the ice or water; it’s just part of adjusting. No issues so far!
How have you and your family immersed yourselves in the local culture? What have you learned from the Balinese?
We’ve made a conscious effort to engage with the local community. We’re involved in several outreach programs, including visits to orphanages, prisons, and communities living in extreme poverty. One thing we’ve learned from the Balinese is their deep joy and contentment, even when they have so little material.
What should other families think about before making the move?
Do your homework before the move, especially around pricing. We recommend spending a month in an area before committing to a long-term lease. Traffic is a big factor here, so choosing the right location for your daily routine is crucial. Most rentals are paid yearly and upfront, so take your time to find the right fit.
Final Thoughts
Simone has been amazing! From helping us move to Bali to sharing valuable insights on schools, banking, and general logistics, she made our move so much smoother. She truly knows Bali inside and out.
To sum it up: We absolutely love our Bali life!
