Remote Work In Bali Through The Eyes Of An American

Some might think I’m living the proverbial dream, working from wherever I want, with a flexible schedule, on a tropical volcanic island, with a tech startup… but things aren’t as hot as you might think (accept for the temperature outside of your air conditioned room, coffee shop, or favorite cafe… or unless one of the multiple volcanos decides to blow).

Here’s the deal, I enjoy what I do, and am very grateful for it, but the glamour kinda wears off after a while. Let’s take a look at some of the things I’ve already mentioned — and then some more — and we’ll discuss how it measures up to the glowing expectations of the dreamy-eyed, nine-to-five people out there.

Remote Work

Work Wherever You Want:

For the most part, this is true… so long as you have good internet, and in Bali that doesn’t always happen. Power outages and internet shutdowns are not uncommon. It’s a good thing to have a spare internet modem filled with quota wherever you’re going to be, particularly at home. Co-working spaces, coffee shops, and cafes are some of your best bets if you want strong and reliable internet, but watch your spending — all those lattes and sandwiches can rack up a hefty weekly/monthly bill. Technically speaking, with a good internet modem, you could be like one of those guys in the funny commercials with their laptop on the beach, board shorts below and dress shirt & tie up top, with a cardboard office background, having a business video call :D

One more thing before moving on. Being in Indonesia, they’re a bit overzealous with blocking websites, even Reddit, lol. So you may find it useful to have a reliable VPN (I just use Google Chrome’s ZenMate extension — free version).

Flexible Schedule:

Also, mainly true. Now if you want the ultimate flexible schedule, start a business (but be prepared to hustle, fall, learn, get back up, and do it again… and deal with any legal stuff), or do freelancing. Working with a company as an employee, however, there can be general working hours when you need to be connected with other co-workers, deadlines on tasks (as always), and if you start a bit later in the day and find yourself needing to travel multiple times in the day to different locations (I drive my wife around, etc), you may find yourself working late into the evening/night — but nothing a little time management can’t help with… or just let it be, the joys of flexibility.

Tropical Paradise:

Again true, but a couple things to consider. 1. You get used to it pretty fast, and the glamour can wear off pretty quickly (good to always remember to count your blessings — wherever you are) and if you stay busy, it’s easy to get caught up in things and just not take the time to enjoy your surroundings. It’s worth noting that some digital nomads will travel to different locations, towns, & countries whenever it suits them, if their lifestyle allows for it. 2. You will most likely start to miss home at some point, friends and family overseas, and if you want to see them, you’ll have to learn how to save up to go back home once in a while.

Amazing Pay:

Unless you’re either A. a successful business owner or a totally amazing freelancer, or B. working for a professional and well established company, don’t be expecting totally steller pay from remote work with a startup. Remember, they’re still trying to get their business off the ground and established, and as long as they’re covering a decent standard of living for the country you’re in, and hopefully a bit extra, don’t be expecting the pay you’re used to. But also, be willing to bargain and present your case for an acceptable salary, while being as flexible as you’re willing to be. If your pay isn’t matching what you need or want, but you enjoy what you do and don’t want to stop (or just aren’t willing to), consider doing something else on the side if you can, and learn how to budget your spending, manage your money, and save — and don’t forget to give and be generous too ;)

Local Things To Consider:

Basic things, really… don’t be stupid, be extra careful and use basic safety precautions when traveling, learn at least some of the local language, learn how to eat spicy food, be polite and friendly when possible, learn some of the local greetings, befriend your neighbors, etc. Be prepared to see some strange things. Get an international driver’s license, and learn how to drive a scooter. Be prepared to abide by the rules of the road as much as possible, and yet expect the unexpected, as many local drivers learned to drive since the time they were kids and still seem to have that mindset when they drive. Learn about local herbal treatments for various ailments, for example, slowly and methodically sipping papaya leaf juice throughout the day for a few days is said to help stave off Dengue fever if you start to feel the symptoms. Wheatgrass juice (usually comes in shot cups) is said to be an amazing immune booster. Turmeric juice blends (jamu) is said to be great for cleansing your blood, and turmeric is generally extremely healthy. Activated charcoal in some milk or water can help if you or a pet have food poisoning, etc. As well as general health tips, like raw garlic, hot-cold showers before bed, etc. Just a heads up, many people get “Bali Belly” shortly after arriving, hopefully it won’t happen to you, but be prepared. It’s probably a good idea to have some sort of insurance as well. Also, it’s custom here that people, even strangers will ask you where you’re going. You can learn the local language to say you’re getting food (makan — eat), or home, or jalan-jalan (basically just travelling around, going on a drive, hanging out); Or, you can be a little more silly and ambiguous, as one of my friends recently told me… when someone asks him where he comes from, he points back, and says “dari sana” (back there), and when they ask him where he’s going, he points ahead, and says “mau kisana” (I want to go over there) :D

Overall:

Overall, working remotely on a tropical island is a great option, and if you’re here, it may be one of your few available options. It’s nice, and there is a freedom to it, but it’s not all walks on the beach and pina coladas ;)

Thank you for reading Cyberius’ blog

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