Trading London for Bali & Finding Remote Work – About Abroad Podcast

Michelle Coulson left the office-based rat race in London after a realization that she had to be closer to water to live her best life. Today she lives a location-independent lifestyle, recently riding her bike across Ireland, and currently globetrotting as she seeks her next home.

As a former corporate recruiter and now the Founder of Remote Rebellion, Michelle specializes in helping other people obtain remote work.

Listen to the episode below and join Chase Warrington’s Podcast- About Abroad, to dive into her travel adventures and share some practical tips for those seeking to follow in her remote footsteps.

Working Remotely from Bali

Bali has become a go-to destination for remote workers, thanks to its beautiful landscapes, affordable cost of living, and vibrant digital nomad community. If you’re planning to set up your remote office in Bali, one of the first things you’ll need to think about is your visa. Many nomads start with a Tourist Visa (valid for up to 60 days), but for longer stays, consider a Business Visa, which can be extended to last up to six months. Another popular option is the Social-Cultural Visa, allowing for longer durations while promoting cultural exchanges.

Internet reliability in Bali has improved dramatically over recent years, with many cafes and co-working spaces offering solid connections—though it’s a good idea to have a hotspot backup, especially in the more remote areas of the island. The island’s co-working culture is rich, with hubs like Hubud in Ubud or Dojo in Canggu providing not just a workspace, but an entire community of like-minded people. It’s easy to network, find opportunities, and be part of events tailored for remote professionals.

One of the standout aspects of working remotely from Bali is the quality of life. There’s an abundance of healthy food, wellness activities, and natural beauty to help you maintain that elusive work-life balance. Surfing before your meetings, yoga in the afternoon, and a tropical juice at your desk—it’s all part of the daily routine. However, staying compliant with visa regulations is key, as Indonesia enforces these rules strictly. Keeping an eye on visa expiration dates and opting for an agent to handle extensions can make your remote experience in Bali much smoother.