Why I left Belgium and how I still make a living in Bali

Posted on 12 October 2025 by Jonas Thiry

Bali

Digital nomad

In May 2023, I made one of the most impactful decisions of my life. I left Belgium and moved to Bali. Even now, I can see how much this choice has changed the way I live, work and see the future.

Why I left

The slow burn of routine

In Belgium, I had a stable life. A good work rhythm, clients and a familiar environment. But everything was predictable. The days felt the same, the weather dragged my energy down and winter seemed to last six months. I wasn’t unhappy, but I wasn’t feeling alive anymore. I needed space, light and a lifestyle that didn’t trap me in the metro work sleep routine.

A personal transition that played a role too

At that time, I had just come out of a breakup. It wasn’t the main reason I left, but it definitely removed a mental barrier. When you no longer have a relationship tying you down, you look at things differently. If I didn’t do it then, I probably never would. It helped me picture myself somewhere else more easily, without compromises.

The desire to live differently

For a long time, I’d had this idea in mind. Working remotely, traveling, discovering other cultures and proving that you can make a living from your skills without being tied to one place. Bali became the obvious choice. The climate, the nature, the atmosphere, the creativity, the international community and that unique energy you don’t find anywhere else.

Preparing for the move

I didn’t decide to leave on a whim. I spent a full year preparing for this move. During that time, I kept developing my freelance business to secure my clients and make sure my income was stable. I also saved enough to cover several months of expenses so I could leave without stress.

I took the time to research the different types of visas and all the administrative steps to avoid complications once I arrived.

At the same time, I sold most of my personal belongings, including my car. The goal was to travel light and cut any material ties with Belgium. By the time I left, everything I owned fit into a backpack.

On May 21st, 2023, once everything was in place, I booked a one-way ticket to Bali.

The firsts days in Bali

When I first arrived, I didn’t settle in right away. I spent about ten days exploring the island — Kuta, Ubud and the Gili Islands. I wanted to get a feel for the atmosphere, see where I could picture myself living and understand the place a little before unpacking my bags.

After that, I moved to Canggu.

Even if everything looked idyllic, the beginning wasn’t the easiest. I arrived alone and didn’t know anyone. My English wasn’t very fluent yet, so connecting with people wasn’t simple. I was surrounded by people every day, but actually having conversations required extra effort. As a result, I spent a lot of time on my own at the start.

I was discovering the island, working, getting used to the scooter, the heat and the local habits, but socially I was starting from zero.

With time, things started to open up. I began meeting people to grab a drink with, play padel or work in coworking spaces. And I even met my partner, who I’ve now been living with for a year. That’s when Canggu truly became home.

How I make a living from Bali

I didn’t change careers. I still work as a web developer and consultant for clients in Europe. I create custom websites and support agencies, freelancers, small businesses and associations, just like I did before leaving.

The six-hour time difference has actually become an advantage. In the morning, it’s quiet and I can focus on development and production tasks. In the afternoon, Europe wakes up and I move on to meetings and client calls. In the evening, it depends on the day. Sometimes I wrap things up slowly, other times I use that time to work out or switch off a bit.

The cost of living in Bali

In Canggu, the cost of living stays reasonable as long as you earn in euros. Rent usually ranges between 400 and 700 euros per month. For food, you can expect to spend around 250 to 400 euros depending on your lifestyle. Renting a scooter is generally between 60 and 90 euros. If you work from a coworking space, you can add around 150 euros. For sports and leisure, it’s usually between 100 and 200 euros. My health insurance costs me about 60 euros a month.

If you live simply but comfortably, a budget of 1500 to 2000 euros is enough. With clients in Europe, this lifestyle is easy to maintain.

What this lifestyle has given me

A real balance between work and personal life
More energy thanks to the climate and the rhythm
Inspiring encounters with people from all over the world
Total geographic freedom
The ability to structure my days the way I want

But it’s not perfect all the time

Administrative procedures require patience
The distance from family and friends can be tough
Discipline is essential to stay on track

Would I make the same choice again?

Absolutely.

It wasn’t an escape, it was a decision. A way of living that fits who I am today. I don’t know how long I’ll stay here, but going back to my old life would make no sense. I have more freedom, more focus, more balance and a lifestyle that actually inspires me.

And if you’re reading this thinking “What if I did the same?” it probably means a part of you is already considering it. That little voice deserves to be heard at least once in your life.