The truth about living in Bali

The Things Nobody Talks About

Bali will always hold a special place in my heart. The island’s energy, its natural beauty, and the people have given me so much over the years. However, if you asked me if I would ever want to move back, the answer is a definitive hell no. As much as I love Bali, there are some truths about living here that nobody seems to talk about. So, let me clear things up for you.

The Pollution Problem

Bali has a massive pollution issue, especially during the rainy season. If you’ve ever visited during this time, you know exactly what I mean. Flooded rivers and changing winds wash trash up on the beaches, particularly on the west coast. It’s heartbreaking, and it exposes both locals and tourists to serious health risks. I’ve had shingles three times in four years, which is related to mold and pollution exposure. Bali doesn’t have a proper waste management or recycling system, and it doesn’t look like that’s changing anytime soon.

I’ll add a picture so you can see the extent of the problem. It’s awful.

The Traffic Nightmare

Let’s talk about traffic. It’s a nightmare. It’s gotten so bad that what used to be a 30-minute drive from Uluwatu to Canggu can now take 3 hours. The congestion is overwhelming, and with that comes a huge increase in pollution from all the cars and scooters. You quickly realize how much time you waste sitting in traffic. It’s frustrating, and it’s a part of daily life on the island.

Mold – A Hidden Health Hazard

Mold is something you’ll deal with if you’re living here long-term. Almost every accommodation that’s more than a year old will have mold issues. Bali’s humidity is perfect for it, and it can seriously mess with your health. Mold exposure over time can cause respiratory problems, allergies, and general fatigue. I’ve had to deal with it personally, and it’s not something you want to overlook.

Low-Quality Water and Its Effects on Your Health

Water in Bali is another area where things aren’t as great as they seem. The tap water isn’t safe to drink, and even though you may rely on bottled water or filtered systems, the quality of the water can still affect your skin, hair, and overall health.

If you’re only visiting for a week or two, it might not make much of a difference. But if you're living here, you’ll eventually notice the effects. I personally struggled with hair fall, acne prone skin and overall health issues for months before I made the connection. It’s a real problem when you’re living here long-term.

Bali Belly – It's Almost Inevitable

And now, let’s talk about one of the most unpleasant realities of living in Bali: stomach issues. The food is amazing (I can’t get enough of the fresh fruit and delicious local dishes), but let’s face it – everyone gets a Bali belly sooner or later.

You can be as cautious as possible with your food choices, but at some point, your stomach will rebel. From food poisoning to digestive issues, it's an inevitable part of living here. For me, it took two years to figure out that I was dealing with a leaky gut and parasites. It was an exhausting process, and I wouldn't wish it on anyone. Bali’s hygiene standards simply aren’t the same as what you might be used to back home, and that can take a serious toll on your digestive system.

The Bottom Line

Now that you know some of the truths about living in Bali, you can make a more informed decision about whether or not it’s the right place for you. While Bali is undoubtedly beautiful and has so much to offer – from its vibrant culture to world-class surf and a variety of food choices – there’s a lot more to consider beyond the postcard-perfect images.

That being said - Bali is great for a holiday, but living there? Well, let’s just say it's not as dreamy as the influencers make it seem.