When Claudia and her partner Andy decided to move their lives to Bali, it wasn’t a decision made lightly. Both of them had lived full lives in the U.S.—Claudia growing up in New York City, navigating many chapters as a writer, advisor, entrepreneur, and mother, and Andy, who grew up in New Jersey before studying in New York City. Raised in immigrant households, they shared not just geography, but the experience of balancing cultures and values from an early age.
Their move to Bali, however, wasn’t about chasing a tropical dream. It was about something deeper—healing, slowing down, and finding alignment after years of overstimulation and challenge. Today, Claudia and Andy are building a new life in Ubud, surrounded by jungle, community, and purpose.
We spoke with Claudia about their journey—what inspired their move, what life looks like in Bali, and how they’re weaving their vision into their new chapter.
Tell us a little about yourselves
I was raised in New York City. I’ve lived many chapters: as a writer, advisor, entrepreneur, and mother. My life has always been about navigating between intellect and emotion, independence and connection. Andy grew up in New Jersey, and he went to school in New York City. We were both raised in immigrant households and had a lot of things in common.
When did you move to Bali, and how long do you plan to stay?
I moved to Bali in late 2024. I had visited before and fallen in love, but this time it was a real move—KITAS and all. It’s been several months now, and I plan to stay long-term. It feels like home in a way no other place ever has.
What were the key reasons that led you to relocate to Bali?
After years of living in cities that left me overstimulated and energetically drained, I realized I needed to live somewhere that supported both my nervous system and my spirit. I’d been through a difficult few years—personally and professionally—and wanted a complete reset. Bali offered not just beauty and slowness, but a kind of sacred softness. The decision felt intuitive. It wasn’t just about escaping a place, but coming home to myself.
How did you come across Our Year in Bali and why was the service valuable to you?
I found Our Year in Bali online while researching expat experiences. The moment I spoke with Simone, I felt completely seen and supported. Her guidance was invaluable—from the practical logistics to the emotional reassurance. She knew the questions I didn’t even know to ask, and that kind of handholding made all the difference during a major life transition.
Where do you live in Bali? How would you describe the community?
I live in Ubud, in a beautiful villa surrounded by jungle. It’s quiet, easy to get to, and deeply grounding. There’s a water filtration system, a pool, and space for friends and family to visit—so it’s both nourishing and open. Ubud has a strong expat community but also remains very connected to Balinese spiritual life, which I deeply respect. It’s the perfect balance between introspection and connection.
You’re building a yoga and meditation center, tell us all about it!
Yes! It’s called Samyama Meditation Center. There’s also a vegan/vegetarian restaurant on site as well with delicious food. This is Andy’s business actually. The vision is a healing space that merges deep inner work with the art of conscious living. He took over an existing yoga retreat center and is expanding it. It’s not just about movement or meditation—it’s about integration. We’ll offer somatic healing, stillness practices, soulful community events, and retreats. The silent retreats are very popular as are the meditation and shadow work retreats. The process of building something like this in Bali teaches patience, trust, and flow. Nothing is linear, and that’s been a powerful mirror for growth.
How does everyday life in Bali compare to back home financially?
Compared to the U.S., especially a city like New York or even Denver, the cost of living in Bali allows for a much higher quality of life. I can afford to live in a beautiful space, eat organic food, and have access to wellness services that would’ve been luxuries back home. Things like massages, fresh produce, and community events are accessible here. And that spaciousness creates more room for creativity and presence.
How have you found the medical and health services in Bali?
I was pleasantly surprised. I’ve had access to great care when I needed it, and there are excellent hospitals and clinics, especially for expats. That said, I’m also aware that it’s important to be proactive and have international health insurance but the cost for that is far below health insurance costs in the US. I also use holistic services and there’s a beautiful blend of East and West that works well for me.
What does a typical day look like for you and your family in Bali?
Our son is now at school in Europe, so my days are quieter than they used to be. A typical day begins with tea on the terrace while the jungle wakes up around me. I might do some writing or go for a walk. I meet with people involved in our wellness center project, take meetings, or do deep focused work. Afternoons are for movement, rest, or reading. Evenings are quiet or exciting as there are many gatherings and events like ecstatic dance, kirtans and many different creative communities here.
What are some common misconceptions about Bali, and what would you say to set the record straight?
One big myth is that Bali is only for Instagram influencers or digital nomads on a “permanent vacation.” There’s a depth here—a spiritual current—that many people don’t see unless they slow down. Another misconception is that Bali is cheap and easy. It can be affordable, but if you’re building a life or a business, it takes real commitment, adaptation, and respect for the culture.
What cultural experiences have you had in Bali?
I’ve attended ceremonies, offerings, and temple blessings, and I try to be a respectful guest in a very sacred land. I’m slowly learning Bahasa Indonesia, which helps connect me more meaningfully with people here. What I’ve learned from the Balinese is the power of devotion—how spirituality is woven into daily life, from the way they make offerings to how they greet each other. It reminds me to live with more presence and gratitude.
What should other families think about before making the move?
Don’t come to Bali thinking it will fix your life—but do come if you’re ready to meet yourself. Respect the local culture, take your time to understand how things work, and be humble. Also, be prepared for your nervous system to recalibrate. Bali has a way of holding up a mirror—be it through nature, silence, or unexpected detours. The more open and grounded you are, the richer your experience will be.
Final thoughts
Moving to Bali was a leap, but it’s also been a return to simplicity, to beauty, to self. There’s a different sense of time here, one that allows for both healing and becoming. I feel grateful every day—not because everything is perfect, but because I finally feel in alignment with how I want to live. It’s not just a new chapter; it’s a new language for life.
