Bali has long been a dream destination for Mike and Rach, a Melbourne couple who made the bold move to retire early and embrace island life. They decided to retire in Sanur, drawn to its laid-back charm and strong expat community, immersing themselves in its vibrant culture and relaxed coastal lifestyle. Enjoy the interview that shares some great tips on how to get involved in this new way of life!
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? Where are you originally from?
We are originally from Melbourne, Australia. We married in March last year, and both of us were working six days per week. Mike had always wanted to live in Bali and had been planning for early retirement by sacrificing holidays for many years to get ahead. I (Rach) have two grown-up sons who are now finding their own way in life. We purchased a long lease property just after COVID, which we initially used for holidays. After a shift in our work structure in early 2024, we made the decision to move permanently.
When did you first arrive in Bali, and how long do you wish to live here?
We landed in Bali in September 2024, and we plan to make it our permanent home for many years. It’s our happy life and happy place.
What motivated you to move to Bali, and how did you go about making the decision?
Mike had been visiting Bali for holidays for many years, and I experienced my first visit in 2021. I instantly fell in love with the place.
How did you hear about Our Year in Bali, and what was your experience with Simone’s support?
We came across Our Year in Bali on YouTube and then Facebook. After an initial Zoom meeting, Simone supported us throughout our journey, and her connections made the transition a breeze. Even after arriving, she continues to offer help, which we really appreciate.
Where in Bali do you live? Describe the neighbourhood, community, and things to do.
We moved to Sanur, a popular destination for expats of all ages. We love the laid-back lifestyle and have made great friends, many of whom are also from Australia. It feels like a home away from home. We’ve joined the pickleball community, which has been so much fun, and we are meeting many locals. I’m keen to learn the local language to immerse ourselves even more.
How has the transition been for you and Mike? Any tips on settling in?
The transition has been smooth. We quickly found our community, and as a social butterfly, I helped us settle in rapidly. Joining social groups through Facebook was a great way to meet people. Sanur feels like a small town where everyone is willing to help. However, you have to step out of your comfort zone to fully embrace life here. Bali offers everything you need, regardless of your budget.
You decided to retire in Bali instead of Australia—what benefits does Bali offer?
Bali has allowed us to retire early due to the lower cost of living. However, if you move here only for financial reasons, you might end up missing Australia. Adaptability is key. Everyday living can present challenges, but we’ve embraced the “Bali way.” Things may take longer, and traffic can be chaotic, but road rage is rare. We love the laid-back attitude and appreciate how things work here.
How does the cost of living compare to back home? What luxuries can you afford here?
Sanur is much more affordable than Australia. Dining out, massages, and transport are significantly cheaper. Rent is also lower, especially with long-term leases.
We can afford luxuries that would be occasional treats in Australia, such as regular massages, hiring a cleaner, and eating out daily. Fresh tropical fruit, local warung meals, and beachside cafés are budget-friendly. However, imported goods like Western-brand groceries, wine, and certain electronics can be more expensive.
How has living in Bali influenced your personal life?
We’ve grown and learned a lot as a couple. Our days are full of activities, and we can make them as busy or relaxed as we like.
What are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced?
The wet season has been our biggest challenge so far. Our villa nearly flooded, and we had a few bouts of illness that come with the season. However, we got through it, and it hasn’t dampened our spirits.
What does a typical day or week look like?
Our mornings start early with coffee in bed around 6 AM. I (Rach) head to the gym five mornings a week, often taking yoga classes with friends. Afterward, we usually have breakfast at home.
Each day, we tackle one task—whether it’s grocery shopping, villa projects, catching up with visiting Aussie friends, or hosting guests. We frequently meet with expat friends for meals and card nights. Walks along the Sanur beach path are a regular part of our week, offering a great way to enjoy the ocean breeze.
We cook about once a week, but we mostly eat out or order Grab. Pickleball is a big part of our routine, and we play 2-4 times a week. The pool is our go-to cool-off spot, sometimes multiple times a day. Evenings are for winding down with TV shows or movies, though we’re often in bed early. Life here is never dull!
What are the biggest misconceptions about Bali?
- It’s not one big holiday – It may feel that way at first, but daily life isn’t just beach clubs and cocktails.
- Bali isn’t as cheap as it once was – Some things, like wine, cheese, and rent in popular areas, are pricey. Vegemite is expensive—we have friends bring it for us!
- Language can be a barrier – Not everyone speaks English. I’m learning Indonesian to communicate better and show respect for the culture.
- It’s not always paradise – The wet season was tough, but it’s temporary. You have to be prepared for occasional challenges.
What are your favorite things to do in Bali? Any new hobbies or interests?
We’ve taken up pickleball, which has been an exciting new hobby. We’ve also been working on minor renovations to our villa. Movies are more affordable here, so we go more often. Exploring on scooters has been both challenging and fun.
