Bali on a Budget: How I Lived in Paradise for Just $200 a Month

The Myth of an Expensive Bali

Bali. The land of breathtaking beaches, lush green rice terraces, and a culture so rich it captivates everyone who visits. But for many travelers, there’s a common misconception: Bali is expensive.

They picture luxurious beachfront resorts, exclusive beach clubs charging $20 for a cocktail, and Western-style cafés where a simple breakfast costs as much as an entire day’s worth of food elsewhere in Southeast Asia.

But here’s the thing: Bali doesn’t have to be expensive. In fact, with the right planning and mindset, you can live comfortably on a budget that would barely cover a weekend in most Western countries.

Let me share my story—how I lived in Bali, rented a fully furnished room, ate delicious local food, and explored the island without spending a fortune.

Finding a Home in Sanur

Before arriving in Bali, I had done a bit of research. I didn’t want to stay in the crowded streets of Kuta, where nightlife ruled the city. I wasn’t looking for the high-end, trendy spots of Seminyak either. Instead, I wanted a quieter place, something peaceful yet close enough to everything I needed.

That’s when I stumbled upon Sanur, a charming beach town known for its relaxed atmosphere, stunning sunrises, and a mix of local and expat communities. Unlike Canggu, which is filled with digital nomads and influencers, Sanur felt more authentic—less about trends and more about living.

I found a room on Jalan Batur, a quiet street lined with small houses, guesthouses, and friendly locals who smiled as they passed by. The price? Just $100 per month.

I thought there had to be a catch. But when I arrived and saw the place, I was stunned.

For just $100 a month, I had:

• A queen-size bed—comfortable and spacious.

• Air conditioning—a must-have in Bali’s tropical heat.

• A TV and fast internet—perfect for work and entertainment.

• A private bathroom with a shower—clean and well-maintained.

• A small kitchen area—where I could cook simple meals if I wanted.

It wasn’t a five-star hotel, but it had everything I needed. More importantly, it gave me a sense of home—something that’s hard to find when you’re constantly moving from one hotel to another.

I knew then that this was the best decision I had made.

The Secret to Affordable Food in Bali

With my accommodation sorted, the next challenge was food. I had heard stories of tourists spending $10–$20 per meal in Western cafés. That wasn’t my style—I wanted to eat like a local.

Luckily, Sanur was a food paradise.

Along Jalan Batur, there were countless small warungs (local eateries) selling traditional Balinese and Indonesian dishes. Unlike the overpriced tourist restaurants, these places served authentic, home-cooked meals at unbelievably low prices.

Here’s what I could get for just Rp 10,000–Rp 15,000 (less than $1):

• A steaming bowl of bakso (Indonesian meatball soup) with a rich, flavorful broth.

• A plate of nasi campur (rice with mixed vegetables, tempeh, and sometimes meat).

• Fried chicken with rice, crispy and juicy, served with a side of sambal.

• Rice with grilled fish and vegetables, fresh from the local market.

But my absolute favorite? Pork satay with rice, which cost just Rp 15,000 ($1). The skewers were grilled over charcoal, filling the air with an irresistible smoky aroma. Paired with a generous portion of rice and spicy peanut sauce, it was one of the most satisfying meals I had in Bali.

Tip for budget travelers: If you want to eat cheaply in Bali, avoid tourist areas and go where the locals eat. The food is not only cheaper but often more delicious than what you’ll find in expensive cafés.

How to Enjoy Bali Without Spending a Fortune

With food and accommodation taken care of, the next question was: What do I do for fun?

Many tourists in Bali spend hundreds of dollars on activities like beach clubs, guided tours, and spa treatments. But the truth is, you don’t need to spend a lot to enjoy Bali.

Here’s how I spent my days in Sanur without breaking the bank:

1. Sunrise Walks on Sanur Beach (Free)

Unlike the crowded beaches of Seminyak and Kuta, Sanur Beach is peaceful, with calm waters and golden sands. Every morning, I woke up early to watch the sunrise over the ocean, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink. It was the best way to start the day—and it cost nothing.

2. Renting a Scooter for Cheap Travel

Transportation in Bali can be expensive if you rely on taxis or private drivers. Instead, I rented a scooter for just Rp 600,000 ($40) per month. This allowed me to explore freely, whether I wanted to visit hidden waterfalls, rice terraces, or nearby temples.

3. Visiting Temples and Cultural Sites

Bali is home to some of the most beautiful temples in the world, and many of them have very low entrance fees. In Sanur, I visited Pura Blanjong, a historic temple with ancient inscriptions dating back to the 10th century. The entrance fee? Less than $1.

4. Enjoying Free Beach Activities

Sanur Beach isn’t just for relaxing—it’s also great for budget-friendly activities. I often saw locals and tourists renting stand-up paddleboards and kayaks for just a few dollars. Sometimes, I simply sat by the shore, watching traditional jukung boats glide across the water.

The Reality of Budget Travel in Bali

Before coming to Bali, I thought I needed a big budget to enjoy the island. But after spending a month in Sanur, I realized that the best experiences don’t have to cost much.

For just $100 a month, I had a comfortable place to stay.
For just a few dollars a day, I ate delicious, authentic food.
For almost nothing, I explored beautiful beaches, temples, and local culture.

The secret to budget travel in Bali isn’t about cutting corners—it’s about choosing experiences that are meaningful rather than expensive.

Final Thoughts: You Don’t Need to Be Rich to Travel Bali

Many people assume that Bali is only for luxury travelers, but that’s far from the truth. If you’re smart with your budget, you can experience the real Bali—the one filled with warm local hospitality, delicious street food, and breathtaking natural beauty—without spending a fortune.

So the next time someone tells you that Bali is too expensive, just smile. Let them believe it. Because while they’re spending hundreds on fancy beach clubs, you’ll be enjoying an authentic Balinese experience for a fraction of the cost.

Bali isn’t expensive—it’s just a matter of how you choose to travel.

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