Why Bali: A Love Affair with the Island of the Gods

When we first arrived in Bali, for the first three days, we couldn't quite grasp why everyone was raving about this island paradise. We even contemplated escaping to Thailand. But after a week of exploration and some budget calculations, we were left in awe.

Building our own villa in Bali that would pay for itself in just five years? Yes, please!

Our initial goal was to move to a warm and tropical country, and the idea of building wealth at the same time was simply irresistible. So, we made the life-changing decision to relocate to Bali.

The quest for land was no walk in the park, and we quickly realized that connections are everything on this island. Bali is home to its fair share of eccentric characters, who sometimes vanish into thin air, dodge phone calls, or engage in various deceptions.

Two months of tireless searching later, we finally found our piece of paradise in Balangan, an as-yet-undeveloped but incredibly promising part of Bukit, Uluwatu. While it may lack traffic and an abundance of cafes and restaurants right now, the construction boom is in full swing. In just a couple of years, this place will be unrecognizable. What's more, real estate prices are on the rise every three months.

In Bali, land is typically leased rather than owned outright, and we secured a 30-year lease with an option to extend it for an additional 20 years. Initially, the idea of leasing didn't sit well with us. We were accustomed to owning property and had always intended to leave something for our future children. However, the advantages quickly outweighed our reservations.

Our villas are projected to pay for themselves in just five years. With rental income consistently flowing in (Bali is beautiful year-round), in 30 years, we can generate a substantial profit. With those funds, we can purchase multiple properties in Europe or any place our hearts desire, which will be our legacy for children we haven't even had yet. We'll discuss the intricacies of freehold ownership in another conversation, as it involves substantial investments.

Our construction project kicks off in January and is expected to take a year to complete. We won't reveal all the details just yet, but let me tell you, it's something grand. Perhaps even bigger than I ever dared to dream.

We obtained investor visas and established a company to facilitate our venture. 

We were fortunate to gather a reliable team around us, and today, we're also involved in consulting for those making the move to Bali. Speaking of the place where we're building, it's still somewhat wild, and it's fascinating to witness its development. Cafes, childcare centers, schools – every time we visit Balangan, we notice new additions.

We hear about Spaniards, Ukrainians, Russians, Italians – they all seem to be snatching up land, and I'm certain an Italian restaurant will pop up sooner or later. It's truly exciting to see this region grow alongside us. Balangan Beach is one of the world's premier surf destinations. Although we haven't taken up surfing yet, we've heard that the waves here are particularly suited for experienced surfers. Nearby, there's another fantastic beach called Dreamland, perfect for a leisurely swim after lunch.

Balangan also boasts expansive golf courses, a park, and the best part, virtually no traffic.

The people who choose Bali as their new home are typically self-sufficient, spiritually inclined, and well-established individuals. What I adore about Bali is its unique blend of characteristics.

Having traveled to 46 countries, I can confidently say that Bali's cuisine is among the most delectable. Top-notch restaurateurs from around the globe come to Bali to open their establishments because businesses here become profitable rapidly.

Whenever I think of Bali, I long for specific places, and upon our arrival, we make a beeline for them.

Now, people often complain that Bali is too far away, especially if you're coming from Europe and Canada. 

While it's true that Bali isn't exactly next door, Denpasar Airport serves as a hub for numerous fantastic destinations. In just a couple of hours, you can reach Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, and with direct flights, even Japan, Dubai, Istanbul. Indonesia itself is immense, diverse, and immensely fascinating. We hope to purchase an off-road vehicle soon and embark on explorations. Furthermore, Indonesia is incredibly promising, and some say it's the next China.

Bali boasts the perfect climate, a rich blend of cultures, breathtaking nature, and countless entertainment options. The island's style is impeccable, a feast for the eyes. And then, there's the magic. I was initially skeptical, but I've experienced it myself. They say that if Bali is meant for you, all doors will open, and if it's not, Bali will push you away. As long as Bali keeps smiling upon us, we'll keep living, loving, building, and growing here.