Our Year in Bali

Simone Collins
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Places & Travel
  • Updated Daily

Welcome to Our Year in Bali Ever dreamed of living in Bali, but not sure where to begin? We’ve been there, and we’re here to help. What started as a family blog has grown into a trusted relocation service that’s helped people from over 55 countries relocate to Bali with clarity and confidence. On this channel, you’ll find: ✓ Helpful insights on moving to Bali ✓ Real stories from expats living here ✓ Weekly interviews, tips, and local know-how Whether you're planning a gap year, a long-term stay, or a brand new chapter, we’re here to make the transition smoother, simpler, and more inspiring.

  1. 19h ago

    From Amsterdam to Bali: Why This Family Chose a Different Life

    Thinking about moving to Bali with your family?In this interview, Leontine and Leonard, clients of Our Year in Bali, share their honest experience of moving from Amsterdam, the Netherlands, to Bali with their two young boys.Before moving, both were working full-time and living a busy city life in Amsterdam. Their children would go to school and then after-school care, meaning they hardly had enough time together as a family. They wanted to do things differently and create a lifestyle where they could spend more time together.In March 2024, they made the move to Bali. After travelling around the island, they eventually settled down and began building their new life here.They quickly discovered why Bali became one of their favourite places in the world. From the family-friendly lifestyle and activities for children to the schools and welcoming Balinese culture, Bali offered many of the things they were looking for as a family.Leontine and Leonard also talk openly about the concerns they had before moving, including whether they would be able to work remotely, whether their boys would make friends, how they would find the right school, and which area of Bali would be best for their family.With the help of Simone from Our Year in Bali, they were able to navigate their visa, explore school options, understand different areas of Bali, and get practical advice that made the process of settling in much easier.Chapters:0:02 — Meet Leontine & Leonard: Moving to Bali from the Netherlands with Two Boys3:15 — What Was the Process of Moving to Bali Like?5:56 — Life in Bali: Their Daily Routine & First Impressions11:53 — The Cost of Living in Bali: Their Experience15:20 — Thinking About Moving to Bali? Their Advice15:57 — Common Misconceptions About Living in Bali16:22 — Final Thoughts: What They Love About Life in BaliTheir story offers an honest look at what it's really like to relocate to Bali as a family — from finding schools and settling into a new community to creating a lifestyle with more time together.Thinking about moving to Bali with your family?Book a free discovery call with our team and let's discuss your family's plans, lifestyle goals, budget, visa options, schools, and the best areas of Bali for your needs.Book Your Free Discovery Call:https://calendly.com/ouryearinbali/30Explore Our Bali Relocation Services:https://ouryearinbali.com/our-servicesExplore Our Areas to Live in Bali:https://ouryearinbali.com/areas-to-liveWhether you're planning to relocate with your family, work remotely from Bali, or simply explore your options, we're here to help make the process easier and more informed.

  2. 4d ago

    Retiring in Bali: An Australian's Honest Experience After Moving to Sanur

    Thinking about retiring in Bali?Join Simone, founder of Our Year in Bali, as she sits down with David on the Sanur beachfront to discuss what it's really like to relocate from Australia and embrace retirement in Bali.After a career as a high school deputy principal and science teacher, David decided to make the move to Sanur in search of a slower, more fulfilling lifestyle. In this honest conversation, he shares why he chose Bali over other retirement destinations, how he adjusted to everyday life, and what surprised him most after relocating.From visas and finding the right home to healthcare, banking, cost of living, making new friends, and embracing Balinese culture, David offers practical advice and real-life insights for anyone considering retiring or relocating to Bali.Chapters:00:00 Meet David: From Australia to Bali00:45 Why I Chose Bali for Retirement02:20 Planning the Move & Finding Trusted Support05:10 Why I Chose Sanur08:15 Everyday Life in Bali11:30 Cost of Living & Daily Expenses14:10 Building a Community & Making Friends17:00 Challenges of Moving to Bali20:00 Common Misconceptions About Bali22:30 My Advice for Future RetireesMany people dream about retiring in paradise. David is living it, and shares the realities, the surprises, and why he believes moving to Bali was one of the best decisions he's made.Ready to start planning your own retirement in Bali?Explore our Retirement in Bali resources:https://ouryearinbali.com/retirement/?v=b80bb7740288Book a FREE discovery call with Simone and get personalised guidance for your move:https://calendly.com/ouryearinbali/30min?Learn more about relocating to Bali:https://ouryearinbali.com/?v=b80bb7740288Next, watch Janine's storyWatch our interview with Janine, another Our Year in Bali client, who relocated from Australia with her husband and has now been living in Sanur for over a year. She shares her honest experience of daily life in Bali, including healthcare, cost of living, building a community, and why they have no regrets about making the move.Watch now: https://youtu.be/YXlRAW9yi70?si=BHynYIYUGzyKuydEHearing different relocation stories can help you better understand what life in Bali is really like and whether it's the right fit for your own retirement journey.Don't forget to like, subscribe, and leave your questions in the comments; we'd love to hear from you.#RetiringInBali #RetireInBali #LivingInBali #MovingToBali #Sanur #AustralianExpat #BaliRetirement #OurYearInBali

  3. Aug 3

    Moving to Bali Alone: An American Woman's Honest Relocation Story

    Thinking about moving to Bali on your own?In this honest conversation, Simone Collins, Founder of Our Year in Bali, visits her client Emmy at her home in Canggu to discuss what life is really like after 15 months of living in Bali.Originally from Los Angeles, Emmy shares why she left the United States, how she planned her move, and what surprised her most about relocating to Bali. Together, they discuss the realities of visas, healthcare, banking, finding community, choosing where to live, working remotely, the cost of living, and adapting to Balinese culture. Whether you're moving to Bali alone, with your family, or as a digital nomad, this interview offers practical advice and honest insights from someone who's already made the journey.If you're planning your own move to Bali, book a consultation with Our Year in Bali or explore our relocation services using the links below.Book Your Free Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/ouryearinbali/30...Explore Our Bali Relocation Services: https://ouryearinbali.com/our-servicesWhether you're planning to move to Bali, work remotely, retire, or start a completely new chapter overseas, we're here to help make the relocation process easier, smoother, and more informed.#MovingToBali #LivingInBali #BaliExpat #OurYearInBali #BaliRelocation #DigitalNomadBali #CostOfLivingBali #Canggu #RetireInBali #LifeInBali

  4. Aug 3

    Empower U Comes to Bali This September | Helping Expat Teens Build Confidence & Thrive

    If you're raising a teenager in Bali, this is one conversation you won't want to miss.In this exclusive interview, Simone Collins, founder of Our Year in Bali, sits down with Brent Williams, founder of Empower U, to discuss one of the biggest questions many expat parents face:How do we help our teenagers thrive while growing up overseas?After helping more than 40,000 young people across six countries over the past 25 years, Empower U is bringing its transformational youth development program to Bali for the very first time this September.Whether your teenager is: Looking for more confidence and self-beliefStruggling with motivation or directionFinding it difficult to navigate friendships and growing up abroadOr simply ready to develop the skills that school doesn't always teachThe life skills every teenager needs to build confidence and resilienceHow Empower U helps young people develop leadership, communication, motivation, and purposeWhy thousands of parents say the program has transformed their teenagers' livesEverything you need to know about Empower U's first-ever Bali program this September...this conversation is for you.In this interview, you'll discover:Growing up in Bali is an incredible opportunity, but every teenager deserves a community where they feel challenged, supported, and inspired to become the best version of themselves.If you're an expat parent who wants to equip your teen with the confidence and mindset to thrive, not just now, but for years to come, this is an opportunity you won't want to miss.Ready to Give Your Teen an Unforgettable Experience?The greatest investment you'll ever make isn't just in your child's education—it's in their belief in themselves. Give your teen the opportunity to discover just how capable they really are. Secure their place today and invest in a weekend that could shape their future.Reserve your teen's place: https://book.empoweru.com.au/BaliLearn more about Empower U: https://www.empoweru.com.au/

  5. Aug 3

    Why We Left New Zealand to Raise Our Kids in Bali

    James and Jade looked like they had it all.Successful careers, growing businesses, financial security, and a beautiful life in New Zealand.But behind the scenes, they were exhausted.In this conversation with Simone from Our Year in Bali, James and Jade share why they decided to leave Auckland behind, move their young family to Bali, and completely redesign their lifestyle around time, freedom, and family.From choosing the right international school and finding the perfect neighbourhood to starting a business, investing in property, and embracing a slower pace of life, they share the realities of relocating to Bali with young children.Thinking about moving to Bali?Book a free discovery call with our team and we'll help you understand visas, schools, healthcare, cost of living, housing, business setup, and the best areas of Bali for your lifestyle.Book Your Free Discovery Call:https://calendly.com/ouryearinbali/30Explore Our Bali Relocation Services:https://ouryearinbali.com/our-servicesWhether you're relocating with children, planning a lifestyle change, working remotely, retiring, or investing in Bali, we're here to help make the process easier and more informed.Whether you're planning your move in the next few months or simply exploring the idea, we're here to help you make informed decisions and feel confident every step of the way.#MovingToBali #LifeInBali #BaliExpat

  6. Jun 26

    Moving to Bali? Everything You Need to Know About Healthcare & Medical Support | Padma Care

    Planning to move to Bali? One of the biggest concerns for expats, families, retirees, and digital nomads is understanding how the healthcare system works.In this in-depth conversation, Simone from Our Year in Bali sits down with Alex, Director of Padma Care, and Dr. Gita, Head Doctor, to answer the most common questions about healthcare in Bali. Learn how to access trusted doctors, prepare for medical emergencies, navigate local hospitals, and understand the key differences between healthcare in Indonesia and Western countries.Whether you're relocating permanently, spending several months in Bali, or simply want peace of mind while living on the island, this discussion provides practical insights to help you make informed healthcare decisions.In this video you'll learn:- How healthcare in Bali works for expats- What Padma Care does and how it supports foreign residents- How to find trusted English-speaking doctors- What to do in a medical emergency- Hospital expectations in Bali vs. Western countries- The benefits of a Padma Care membership- When treatment in Jakarta, Malaysia, Thailand or Singapore may be recommended- Tips for retirees planning to live in Bali- How to prepare before relocating to IndonesiaPlanning Your Move to Bali? Whether you're relocating on your own, with your partner, or as a family, we're here to help make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible. Book a FREE Discovery Call with our team to discuss your relocation plans, lifestyle goals, budget, visa options, healthcare considerations, schooling, and the best areas of Bali to suit your needs.- Book Your Free Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/ouryearinbali/30- Explore Our Bali Relocation Services: https://ouryearinbali.com/our-services Learn More About Padma CarePadma Care provides expats and international residents with trusted healthcare support, including access to carefully vetted doctors, personal health advisors, hospital advocacy, emergency guidance, and ongoing healthcare assistance throughout your time in Bali.Learn more about Padma Care and their membership:https://padmacare.pbmcgroup.com/our-year-in-bali/

  7. Jun 14

    Retiring in Bali: Why We Left Australia and Have Zero Regrets

    Thinking about retiring in Bali?In this interview, Janine, a client of Our Year in Bali, shares her honest experience after leaving Australia and relocating to Bali with her husband. After more than a year of living in Sanur, she reveals what daily life is really like, from healthcare and cost of living to community, lifestyle, and the unexpected benefits of making the move.Janine explains why they chose Bali, how they adjusted to life overseas, what surprised them most about living in Indonesia, and why they have absolutely no regrets about their decision.Whether you're planning to retire in Bali, relocate permanently, work remotely, or simply explore a different way of life, this conversation offers valuable insights from someone who has already made the leap.Chapters:00:00 Why We Left Australia for Bali00:40 The Moment We Decided to Move01:45 Does Living in Bali Feel Like a Permanent Holiday?04:00 Why We Chose Sanur Over Other Bali Areas06:45 Building a Community and Making Friends in Bali08:00 Daily Life, Technology & Convenience in Bali10:00 Cost of Living, Food & Dining in Bali12:15 Household Help, Laundry & Lifestyle Benefits15:05 Healthcare in Bali: Better Than Expected?17:20 Advice for Anyone Considering Moving or Retiring in BaliMany people dream about retiring in paradise. Janine is living it—and shares what life is really like behind the Instagram posts.Thinking about retiring in Bali?Book a free discovery call with our team and let's discuss your retirement plans, lifestyle goals, budget, visa options, healthcare considerations, and the best areas of Bali to suit your needs.Book Your Free Discovery Call: https://calendly.com/ouryearinbali/30min?Explore Our Bali Relocation Services: https://ouryearinbali.com/our-servicesOur Gold Coast clients, Kylie & Dean, have been living near Uluwatu for the last two years and are sharing their journey, insights, and experiences of life in Bali.Their story is full of valuable tips and inspiration.🎥 Watch now: https://youtu.be/ySu4IbYT3V4?si=rLyVv-tx5wvkqzPoWhether you're planning to retire in Bali, relocate full-time, invest in property, or simply explore your options, we're here to help make the process easier and more informed.

  8. Jun 14

    Moving to Bali with Teens? Inside Green School Bali's Upper Years Programme

    What if school prepared teenagers for real life, not just exams?If you're researching international schools in Bali, planning a move to Bali with kids, or exploring alternative education options, this behind-the-scenes look at Green School Bali is a must-watch.In this episode of Our Year in Bali, Simone visits Green School Bali and spoke with Benjamin Freud, Head of Upper School, to discover how students in Grades 6–12 are learning through real-world projects, sustainability initiatives, entrepreneurship, leadership development, and hands-on experiences that go far beyond traditional classroom education.Unlike many conventional schools, Green School Bali focuses on developing adaptable, curious, and purpose-driven young people who are ready to thrive in a rapidly changing world.You'll discover:✅ What makes Green School Bali different from traditional schools✅ How the Upper Years (Grades 6–12) prepare students for university, entrepreneurship, and future careers✅ The Greenstone Capstone Program and its real-world impact✅ Why experiential learning is transforming education✅ What parents should consider when choosing an international school in BaliWhether you're an expat family, digital nomad, entrepreneur, or parent considering relocating to Bali, this video provides valuable insights into one of the world's most innovative educational environments.Tell us in the comments: Would you choose this type of education for your teenager?LEARN MORE ABOUT GREEN SCHOOL BALIRead the full article: https://ouryearinbali.com/discover-green-school-bali-upper-years/?v=b80bb7740288Green School Bali: https://bali.greenschool.org/?utm_source=YT&utm_medium=ouryearinbali&utm_id=BFBook a Campus Visit: https://bali.greenschool.org/admissions/visit-our-campus/?utm_source=YT&utm_medium=ouryearinbali&utm_id=BF⏱️ VIDEO CHAPTERS00:11 Introduction & Purpose00:15 Meet Benjamin Freud, Head of Upper School00:30 What Makes Green School's Upper Years Different?01:33 Preparing Students for a Changing World02:32 University Pathways, Entrepreneurship & Beyond03:07 A Typical Week at Green School Bali04:36 Coral Restoration & Experiential Learning05:25 The Greenstone Capstone Explained06:18 Community, Mentorship & Global Perspectives07:16 Advice for Parents Choosing a School07:53 Final ThoughtsSEARCH TOPICS COVERED IN THIS VIDEO:International School BaliMoving to Bali with KidsEducation in BaliGreen School Bali ReviewAlternative EducationTeen EducationExperiential LearningProject-Based LearningSustainable EducationExpat Families BaliLiving in Bali with ChildrenFuture-Ready Education━━━━━━━━━━━━━━#GreenSchoolBali #InternationalSchoolBali #MovingToBali #EducationInBali #BaliSchools #TeenEducation #AlternativeEducation #ExperientialLearning #ProjectBasedLearning #ExpatFamiliesBali #SustainableEducation #FutureReadyEducation #OurYearInBali

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About

Welcome to Our Year in Bali Ever dreamed of living in Bali, but not sure where to begin? We’ve been there, and we’re here to help. What started as a family blog has grown into a trusted relocation service that’s helped people from over 55 countries relocate to Bali with clarity and confidence. On this channel, you’ll find: ✓ Helpful insights on moving to Bali ✓ Real stories from expats living here ✓ Weekly interviews, tips, and local know-how Whether you're planning a gap year, a long-term stay, or a brand new chapter, we’re here to make the transition smoother, simpler, and more inspiring.

Information

  • Creator
    Simone Collins
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    30
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Simone Collins
  • Show Website
    Our Year in Bali

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