Calm-water snorkelling
Amed, Lovina and Nusa Lembongan: calmer waters and vibrant marine life for beginners.
Long stays & sabbaticals
Bali long-stay family planner for 2027.
Accommodation, schooling, healthcare and visas for extended stays and sabbaticals, so your family time in Bali is well organised and comfortable.
- Dry season
- Apr–Oct
- Culture & nature
- Ubud
- Quieter beach base
- Sanur
Long-stay checklist
Seven things to sort early.
A well-prepared sabbatical starts with the practicalities.
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Schools
Research international schools and their enrolment procedures well in advance.
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Insurance
Secure travel and health insurance that covers extended stays.
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Visas
Understand and comply with Indonesian visa regulations for long-term visitors.
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Local food
Explore local markets and family-owned warungs.
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Activities
Mix educational, adventurous and relaxing days for every family member.
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Home base
Consider a villa or serviced apartment for comfort and convenience.
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Community
Engage with local communities to deepen cultural immersion.
Key considerations
What a long stay involves.
Five areas to get right for an extended family stay.
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Accommodation
Villas with private pools or serviced apartments in Ubud, Canggu, Seminyak or Sanur. Long-term agreements often yield better rates.
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Education
International schools offer IB, British and American curricula; enrolment can be competitive. Homeschooling and local tutors are options too.
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Healthcare
International-standard hospitals and clinics in Denpasar, Seminyak and Canggu. Get insurance covering long stays and medical evacuation.
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Activities
Cooking classes, rice-field cycling, surf lessons, cultural tours and waterfall hikes keep children engaged.
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Visa & legal
Several visa options exist for extended stays. Consult a reputable visa agent to stay compliant with Indonesian immigration law.
Keeping kids engaged
Activities for a long stay.
Market cooking classes
Hands-on cooking that teaches children about local produce.
Rice-field cycling
A gentle adventure for active families.
Mt Batur sunrise
Unforgettable, with an early start. Best in the dry season.
Waterfall trails
More accessible in drier months, though some paths are uneven.
Beginner surfing
A fun way to connect with the island and the sea.
Where families base themselves
Choosing your long-stay area.
The right area depends on your priorities for schools, lifestyle and pace.
Slow travel
Live in Bali, not just visit.
Integrating, rather than merely observing, enriches a sabbatical. Join local ceremonies with respect and permission, learn basic Bahasa Indonesia and support local businesses.
Take your time instead of rushing sites. Slow travel leaves room for spontaneous discoveries and a deeper connection with the island.
What should we consider for a Bali sabbatical?
Suitable accommodation, school enrolment, the correct long-stay visas, comprehensive health insurance and a varied plan of cultural, educational and leisure activities for everyone.
How do families manage schooling?
Most enrol in an international school offering IB, British or American curricula. Some homeschool with online resources or local tutors. Research availability and admissions well ahead.
Which areas suit a long-term family stay?
Ubud for culture and nature, Canggu and Seminyak for amenities and expat communities, Sanur for a quieter beach base. Amed, Lovina or Nusa Lembongan offer a slower pace.
Living in Bali
More for families moving over.
Ready for a slower year?
Share your dates and the kids' ages. We'll help you plan the long stay.
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