Digital Nomads in Bali: The Interplay of Tourism Industry and

Geographic Flexibility in the Digital Era

Yucan Wang

Lambton College, Jilin University, Changchun, 130012, China

Keywords: Digital Nomads, Bali, Remote Work, Tourism.

Abstract: Tourism in Indonesia has flourished in recent decades, propelled by its natural beauty and diverse cultural

offerings. Bali, a long-standing tourist hotspot, has gained fame for its cultural allure and picturesque beaches,

drawing surf enthusiasts and cultural aficionados alike. The advent of digital nomadism has further boosted

Bali’s appeal, attracting attention from tourism authorities worldwide. This study explores Bali’s appeal as an

ideal destination for digital nomads and its impacts. By analyzing Bali’s geography, lifestyle, religious beliefs,

visa policies, and cost of living, it illustrates how Bali offers an environment of freedom, inclusivity, and a

return to nature, attracting digital nomads worldwide. The research shows that Bali not only provides an ideal

work and living environment for digital nomads but also contributes to local economic development through

tourism and cross-cultural exchanges. As the digital nomad community grows, Bali’s position in the digital

age is set to elevate further, becoming a preferred destination for global digital professionals.

1 INTRODUCTION

Digital nomads are individuals who use

telecommunications technologies to earn a living and

conduct their lives in a nomadic manner (Mancinelli,

2020; Reichenberger, 2018). They often work

remotely, leveraging the internet to work from

anywhere in the world, allowing them to travel and

explore while maintaining their careers. According to

Mouratidis (2018), the term “digital nomad”

originates from “digital”, which pertains to computer

technology, and “nomad”, signifying individuals who

move from place to place freely. Moreover, he

stressed that digital nomads typically have two or

three primary motivations, such as blending holiday

experiences with work assignments or working while

traveling for leisure. According to Thalassa (2017), in

an online publication, she elaborates on various

offerings provided by nomadic destinations that can

allure nomadic tourists, including: Flexibly; Nomads

inspire, bring fresh ideas; Share global coworking

insights; Satisfied nomads spread positive word; Set

minimum stay for engagement. And about the

destination, Bali, particularly certain areas, have

garnered significant acclaim as destinations

https://orcid.org/0009-0000-5846-9395

welcoming to digital nomads. Bali is a paradise for

digital nomads and stands out as a unique destination

for digital nomads compared to other cities due to its

blend of affordable living, stunning natural beauty,

and rich cultural heritage. Unlike many urban hubs,

Bali offers a tranquil yet vibrant environment with

numerous coworking spaces, a strong expat

community, and a conducive atmosphere for

creativity and productivity. Additionally, the island’s

warm climate and welcoming local culture make it an

ideal spot for digital nomads seeking both

professional growth and a fulfilling lifestyle. This

research will demonstrate why Bali can retain digital

nomads and the creation of digital nomads in Bali by

examining Bali’s geography, people’s lifestyle,

religion, tourism, age of nomads, regulations and

culture, cost of living and future of digital nomads.

2 GEOGRAPHIC POSITION

Bali is a widely known tropical holiday destination

with vast areas of beach, jungle, and volcanic

mountain ranges. Bali is part of Indonesia and is just

one of the 13,677 islands that comprise the nation.

Wang, Y.

Digital Nomads in Bali: The Interplay of Tourism Industry and Geographic Flexibility in the Digital Era.

DOI: 10.5220/0013228000004558

Paper published under CC license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0)

In Proceedings of the 1st International Conference on Modern Logistics and Supply Chain Management (MLSCM 2024), pages 5-10

ISBN: 978-989-758-738-2

Bali lies between neighboring islands Java and

Lombok, and shares the same time zone as Singapore,

Malaysia, and China. Despite not being a country

itself Bali does have a capital city, Denpasar, and is

home to around 4.8 million people. Bali has a capital

located in the southern part of the island, although it

is not an actual country. Denpasar, which is inhabited

by about 4.3 million people (Mona Siahaan, 2024)

and hosts Bali only international airport.

The vast majority of Bali’s terrain is mountainous,

with numerous volcano peaks, significantly

impacting the island’s climate and weather. The

highest peak is Mount Agung, which towers 3,142m

(10,308 feet) above sea level and is known locally as

the “navel of the world” (Editors of

Encyclopaedia, 2024). Another famous volcano is

Mount. Batur, about 30,000 years ago this volcano

experienced a massive catastrophic eruption, one of

the largest known volcanic events on Earth. The

beautiful coral reefs encircle the island are perfect for

scuba diving and snorkeling. It’s interesting to note

that beaches in the north and west typically have

black sand, while those in the south typically have

white. The beautiful coral reefs that encircle the

island are perfect for scuba diving and snorkeling. It’s

interesting to note that beaches in the north and west

typically have black sand, while those in the south

typically have white. The black sand beaches are

currently being developed for tourism, but apart from

the seaside temples of Tanah Lot, they are not yet a

significantly popular destination.

Bali’s most visited location is Canggu which we

called the central place for digital nomads. There are

several complexes which called Co-Working Space

containing accommodation, offices, meeting rooms,

recreational facilities, public areas and fitness areas.

And the price is not so high it is a good place for

digital nomads to live. It’s a perfect place for all kinds

of tourists, from backpackers to partygoers to digital

nomads and those who search for spiritual

experiences. With just a 30-minute ride from Canggu,

there is Seminyak, the most well-known for

boutiques, beach clubs, luxury villas and resorts. Near

the center of the island, there is Ubud, Bali’s cultural

center which hosts people from all over the world

who come to Bali to attend seminars and activities

that focus on taking care of their mind, body, and soul

and finding a relaxing and spiritual mood while

enjoying the beautiful natural landscapes of the city.

3 OTHER INFORMATION IN BALI

During the 16th Century, when Islam triumphed over

Hinduism in Java, Bali became a refuge for many

Hindus on the Island. Today, it is the only remaining

stronghold of Hinduism in the archipelago. The locals

of Bali follow a form of Hinduism known as Agama

Hindu Dharma. Balinese culture, traditions and

religion impact almost every aspect of life on the

island and draw people to Bali to see and experience

it. An important belief of Balinese Hinduism is that

elements of mother nature are influenced by spirit.

For people practicing Hinduism, there is a strong

belief in reincarnation and caste mechanism.

Although Caste is observed, it is less strict than in

India. A reason could be because the great majority

of the population belongs to the Sudra, the lowest

caste (Editors of Encyclopaedia, 2024).

Currently, there are over 20,000 Hindu temples in

Bali, known by the locals as “pura” (Surya Nin,

2024). Some of these temples are a popular spot for

tourists, photographers, or people who wish to learn

more or embrace Hinduism during their stay in Bali.

Further research shows that the digital nomad group

has the highest proportion of digital marketing (11%),

bloggers (10%), and photographers (11%) followed

by social media influencers (8%) and social

volunteers (6%).

4 ACCESSIBILITY

4.1 Visa

There are many destinations in the world available for

people who work remotely, but for digital nomads

seeking an idyllic destination with a straightforward

immigration process, Bali stands out as an excellent

choice. The Indonesian government offers several

visa options tailored to remote workers, making the

transition smooth and hassle-free. One of the most

popular options is the Social and Cultural Visa (B-

211) (Bali.com 2024). Ideal for digital nomads and

long-term visitors, this visa permits an initial 60-day

stay and can be extended four times, each for 30 days.

This visa is often used by those engaging in cultural

activities, social visits, or for those that despite having

a job in their country don’t engage in commercial

activities during their stay in Indonesia. Another

option for those wishing to move there longer is the

KITAS (Temporary Stay Permit). The KITAS is a

more permanent solution. It is available for various

purposes, including work, retirement, and

investment. The process for obtaining a KITAS is

more complex and requires sponsorship by an

Indonesian company or a retirement organization for

retirees. Additionally, although still in development,

MLSCM 2024 - International Conference on Modern Logistics and Supply Chain Management

Indonesia has announced plans to introduce a Digital

Nomad Visa, which aims to attract remote workers by

allowing them to stay for extended periods without

the need for regular renewals. This visa will cater

specifically to digital nomads, providing a more

stable and long-term option for those who wish to

work remotely from Bali. For those wishing to stay in

Bali only during certain periods of the year and have

no plans in staying there for an extended period they

could opt for a Tourist Visa. This visa is available for

citizens of many countries and allows a stay of up to

30 days, with the possibility of a one-time extension

for an additional 30 days. This welcoming approach

to visa policies makes it an irresistible destination for

digital nomads looking to balance work and leisure

seamlessly.

The Athens Journal of Tourism survey shows that

the most common nationality for digital nomads in

Bali is Australia, with a notable difference in numbers

compared to other nationalities living there. This is

probably due to the proximity of Australia to

Indonesia and due to the huge difference in Salaries

which make it easier for Australians to move to Bali.

After Australia, European countries take second place

in the chart, with many Digital Nomads from all over

the continent moving there. Another reason is

because these groups of people can stay in Bali for 30

days, with no visa. It is most easy for them. The most

common European nationalities are Germany,

France, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands.

Among Asian countries, Malaysia and Singapore are

the most moving there for the same reason as

Australia, Proximity. Other Asian nationalities there,

which make up a small percentage of the digital

nomads are Chinese and South Koreans. The primary

nationalities of digital nomads in Bali are shown in

Table 1.

Table 1: Digital nomad’s nationality in Bali (Prabawa &

Pertiwi, 2020).

Nationalit

Quantit

Percenta

(

)

Australia

31 21

ew Zealan

7 5

German

17 11

France

15 10

United Kin

dom

10 7

etherlan

5 3

Russia

3 2

Other Europe

11 7

United States

5 3

Other America

3 2

Sin

apore

8 5

Mala

sia

11 7

China

5 3

South Korea

4 3

Japan 3 2

India 5 3

Other Asia 7 5

Total 150 100

4.2 Cost of Living

For digital nomads in Bali, the cost of living can be

relatively affordable compared to many Western

countries. Table 2 details that 35% of the population

has a monthly per capita income of 1,000-2,999

(USD), which is a high proportion of the population

living in Bali, proving once again that the cost of

living in Bali is not high.

Table 2: Digital nomads’ monthly income in Bali (Prabawa

& Pertiwi, 2020).

Monthl

Income

(

USD

)

Quantit

Percenta

(

)

Below 999 9 6

1000-2999 53 35

3000-4999 41 27

5000-6999 34 23

7000 and above 13 9

Total 150 100

The island offers a thriving community of remote

workers and entrepreneurs, with co-working spaces,

cafes with reliable internet, and accommodation

options catering to their needs. For accommodation,

rent for a one-bedroom apartment in popular areas

like Seminyak or Canggu can range from $300 to

$800 monthly. Shared housing options, hostel or co-

living spaces may offer more affordable alternatives.

For transportation, many digital nomads in Bali

choose to rent motorbike for convenient and

inexpensive transportation around the island.

Motorbike rentals typically cost $50 to $70 per

month. Alternatively, ride-hailing apps like Grab for

short trips can be affordable, with fares from around

$1 to $3. For Co-working spaces, Bali has a growing

number of co-working spaces catering to digital

nomads, offering high-speed internet, comfortable

workspaces, networking events, and amenities like

coffee and snacks. Monthly memberships can range

from $50 to $200. Finally, for activities, Bali offers a

wide range of leisure activities, from surfing, soul

instrument class and forest yoga to exploring temples

and waterfalls also they have full of night life. Costs

vary depending on the activity, but many outdoor

activities like beach visits and hiking are free or

inexpensive. Overall, Bali’s appeal to digital nomads

lies in its combination of affordability, natural beauty,

Digital Nomads in Bali: The Interplay of Tourism Industry and Geographic Flexibility in the Digital Era

vibrant culture, and opportunities for networking and

collaboration within the digital nomad community.

4.3 Lifestyle

The lifestyle can be summed up in three words:

freedom, inclusiveness, and a return to nature.

Freedom: One of the first things is that life here is

free, grounded, but not boring. Big cities are lively

and bustling, but they are irrelevant to most people.

Bali may look like the countryside, but in addition to

the beautiful scenery, there are nowadays a lot of fun

and quality shops, countless coffee, brunch, bistro,

bars and nightclubs, gyms, all kinds of Korean,

Japanese, and Chinese food, all kinds of clothing

shops, and buyers’ shops. Bali has another name

which is called the island of gods. Every day it

becomes increasingly apparent that it really is a place

favored by the heavens, a land of love. Freedom in

Bali is freedom of body and mind. Boldly wearing

favorite clothes without judgment is common. There

is no need to be skinny or slim; the body is free to do

as it wishes. Those who like wheat-colored skin can

go for tanning without anyone saying that “fair skin

covers three flaws”. The freedom of Bali is simple.

Riding a motorbike alone, facing the sun, feeling the

breeze, or even the rain, is incredibly freeing.

Walking barefoot on the beach, rushing to the sea,

singing at the top of one's lungs during yoga chanting,

sweating, and dancing favorite dances all embody

freedom. The most important is everyone can be

themselves in Bali.

Inclusive: All groups of people are accepted here

with different workers of different religions. The

culture here is multicultural. Bali’s inclusivity stems

from its rich cultural heritage that values harmony

and acceptance. The Balinese Hindu philosophy,

along with the island’s history of diversity and

openness to different cultures, plays a significant role

in fostering an inclusive environment.

Back to nature: In Bali nomads can take a lot of

nature classes such as forest yoga, world-class sound

healing, manifestation cacao ceremony, soulify,

healing with kundalini yoga and so on. Nomads can

enjoy your training in the nature. There has a place in

Ubud which is called Pyramid of Chi and committed

to nurturing spiritual growth and inner exploration,

they are a dedicated and caring community providing

healing and spiritual awakening via all aspects of

sound and frequency (Pyramid of Chi, 2024). There

is even a class in Uluwatu where everyone is required

to hand in their mobile phones in the hope that people

will no longer be affected by the news from the

outside world, and that everyone can meditate, dance

or shout in the forest to release their hearts and find

themselves better.

In Bali nomads can have the ultimate relaxation

and meditation. Unlike the hustle and bustle of the

city, nomads can work and enjoy life here, releasing

all the stress and planning themselves better, which is

why Bali is attracting a lot of digital nomads.

Based on Table 3, it can be concluded that most

digital nomads in Bali are aged 20-29 years old

(46%), followed by those aged 30-39 years old

(33%). This proves to some extent that these people

are young people who are in a state of mental freedom

and economic coexistence, however, Bali is the first

choice for them to aspire to a life of freedom, and with

the low-price level, it is a paradise for young people

who are just starting out in the society.

Table 3: Digital nomad’s age distribution in Bali (Prabawa

& Pertiwi, 2020).

e Quantit

Percenta

(

)

Under 20 9 6

20-29 69 46

30-39 50 33

40-49 15 10

50-59 7 5

Total 150 100

5 WHAT ABOUT FUTURE?

In this digital age, continuous learning and rebuilding

social skills are crucial for professional development

as well as innovation and economic growth. Digital

nomads may stimulate economic activities due to

increased knowledge spillovers. The influx of digital

nomads has led to the development of tourism,

boosting the local economy, and to a certain extent

the retention of talent in Bali along with the influx of

global talent. Most digital nomads are from

developed countries, which has led to an exchange

with locals and the importance of inclusive behaviors

and thinking through the implementation of equality

and diversity. at the same time contributing to the

development of Bali.

5.1 Why Digital Nomads Become More

and More in Bali?

Is it basically certain that soon digital nomads will

keep increasing in number due to many reasons.

Therefore, Indonesia is already keeping an eye on this

phenomenon, and are already planning to introduce

new regulations and new visas to accommodate the

needs of the huge influx of digital nomads coming

MLSCM 2024 - International Conference on Modern Logistics and Supply Chain Management

into the country. The idea of implementing remote

working into their companies have been around for

ages but only now due to many factors, such as the

current technology available now and due to COVID-

19. First, let’s analyze why remote working could

positively impact the economy. During a survey

conducted in 2020 by Dahik et al. (2020), 12000

individuals from different countries such as the US,

Germany and India were observed about their

productivity while remote working. The results were

that A surprisingly large number of employees said

they have been able to maintain or even improve their

productivity during the pandemic. Remote working

doesn’t only have benefits for the workers but also for

the company. Office costs are reduced, no commuting

which has huge environmental benefits, a higher

morale and lastly the possibility of employing highly

skilled individuals from all over the country.

Although remote working is not as popular as it

should be these days, this is due to the stubbornness

and fear of companies to change and renovate their

system completely. In fact, during a survey, when

asked what their biggest concern is in relation to the

remote working model, 30% of business leaders

replied that they were ‘maintaining corporate

culture’.

5.2 How Bali Become More Popular in

Digital Nomads’ Group?

As the digital nomad community in Bali continues to

expand, there will be a parallel emphasis on

sustainability initiatives, ensuring that growth is

balanced with environmental responsibility. This

burgeoning community will foster a vibrant

ecosystem of networking opportunities, skill-sharing

events, and entrepreneurial collaborations. With the

increasing demand for remote work, Bali will likely

invest in improving its infrastructure to accommodate

the needs of digital nomads, including enhancing

internet connectivity and developing amenities

tailored to their lifestyle, such as coworking spaces

and affordable accommodation options.

Moreover, sustainability will become a key focus

for the digital nomad community in Bali. Expats will

be encouraged to adopt eco-friendly practices and

support local conservation efforts. Additionally, there

may be an emphasis on reducing carbon footprints

using renewable energy sources and sustainable

transportation options. By integrating sustainability

into the fabric of the digital nomad lifestyle in Bali,

the community can contribute positively to the

island’s environment and culture. This holistic

approach will not only preserve Bali’s natural beauty

and cultural heritage but also enhance the overall

experience for digital nomads, making it a more

attractive destination for remote work and long-term

living.

6 THE INTERPLAY OF TOURISM

INDUSTRY AND GEOGRAPHIC

FLEXIBILITY

In the digital era, the interplay between the tourism

industry and geographic flexibility is exemplified by

the phenomenon of digital nomads in Bali. With the

rise of remote work and the normalization of flexible

lifestyles, Bali has become a hotspot for individuals

who work remotely while enjoying the island’s

natural beauty and vibrant culture. Online booking

platforms and digital communication tools have

facilitated this trend, allowing digital nomads to

research, plan, and book their stays in Bali from

anywhere in the world. Platforms like Airbnb,

Couchsurfing, and Booking allow individuals to

connect with hosts and fellow travelers, fostering

authentic cultural exchanges and promoting

geographic flexibility by offering alternative lodging

and transportation options. Technology-driven

advancements in data analytics and artificial

intelligence enable travel companies to offer

personalized recommendations and experiences

tailored to individual preferences. This

personalization extends to destination suggestions,

accommodations, activities, and dining options,

empowering travelers to curate their ideal itineraries

based on their unique interests and geographic

flexibility. The interplay between tourism and

geographic flexibility in the digital era is

characterized by increased choice, accessibility, and

personalization. Digital nomads are enjoying their

lives while working and travelling as a source of

work, while Bali gets a win-win for both the talent

and the tourism market.

7 CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, the interplay between Bali’s tourist

industry and geographic flexibility has significantly

contributed to its appeal as a hub for digital nomads.

Bali has become a premier destination for digital

nomads, thanks to its accommodating visa solutions,

vibrant culture, rich social life, and unique religious

traditions. The island's commitment to fostering an

inclusive and supportive environment for remote

Digital Nomads in Bali: The Interplay of Tourism Industry and Geographic Flexibility in the Digital Era

workers has led to a significant annual increase in

their numbers. The blend of Bali's serene landscapes,

diverse community, and dynamic lifestyle offers a

compelling backdrop for digital nomads seeking a

balance between productivity and personal

enrichment. As Bali continues to adapt and innovate

in response to the needs of this growing demographic,

it solidifies its reputation as a global hub for digital

professionals. As Bali continues to evolve, it

strengthens its position as a leading destination for

digital professionals seeking an enriching and

balanced lifestyle.

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