Why Asia is the Expat Haven
Moving to Asia has become increasingly popular among expats, remote workers, and entrepreneurs. With a unique blend of rich culture, affordability, and modern conveniences, Asia offers a quality of life unmatched in Europe or the Americas.
The welcoming nature of its people, thriving international communities, and accessibility to neighboring countries with cheap flights add to the allure.
English proficiency in many regions simplifies the transition for foreigners, and the cost of living provides exceptional value for money.
For those seeking a balance of relaxation, adventure, and opportunity, two destinations stand out: Bali, Indonesia, and Da Nang, Vietnam.
Bali: The Island Paradise
Bali has long been a dream destination for tourists and expats alike. Known for its lush green landscapes, iconic rice terraces, vibrant culture, and pristine beaches, Bali also offers a laid-back lifestyle.
It boasts a thriving expat community, easy visa options like the D12 and investment visa, and an affordable cost of living. English is widely spoken, making communication effortless. Life here often revolves around scooters, yoga retreats, healthy dining options, and a "no-stress" mindset.
Da Nang: The Coastal Gem of Vietnam
Da Nang provides a high-quality lifestyle at an even more affordable price. This coastal city features beautiful beaches, incredible food, and a growing café culture.
Da Nang is clean, peaceful, and offers a welcoming environment with relatively good English proficiency among locals.
Expats enjoy easy visa procedures, diverse sightseeing opportunities, and a mix of traditional Vietnamese charm with modern comforts.
Whether you’re considering Bali or Da Nang, this guide will help you decide by comparing their lifestyles, opportunities, and practical aspects like visas and business potential.
---
Make Your Move with Expert Consulting
Sign up here to get expert and personalized consulting to save time, create a smooth personalized moving process while enjoying the best quality life without the need of exploring it yourself in months.
For more details, please refer to the end of this edition of the Innovation Party.
---
Lifestyle Comparison
Climate and Natural Beauty
Bali
Tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round.
Diverse landscapes including beaches, jungles, and volcanoes.
World-famous surfing spots like Uluwatu and Canggu.
Cultural landmarks like Ubud's Monkey Forest and Tanah Lot temple.
Da Nang
Mild tropical climate with cooler winters compared to Bali.
Stunning beaches like My Khe and a mountainous backdrop.
Proximity to historical sites like Hoi An and the Marble Mountains.
A more urban feel with modern cityscapes.
---
Cost of Living
Bali
Rent: $300–$1,000 per month for villas or apartments.
Dining: Affordable local food ($10–$20).
Transportation: Scooter rentals for $50–$80/month; fuel costs are minimal.
Da Nang
Rent: $200–$700 per month for apartments or houses.
Dining: Vietnamese meals ($5–$10).
Transportation: Scooters are common, and costs are similar to Bali.
---
Community and Social Life
Bali
Thriving expat hubs like Ubud, Seminyak, and Canggu.
Networking events, coworking spaces, and yoga retreats.
Vibrant nightlife with beach clubs and music festivals.
Da Nang
Smaller, close-knit expat community.
Social gatherings at cafés and coworking spaces.
More relaxed nightlife compared to Bali.
---
Remote Work Environment
Internet Speed and Connectivity
Bali
Reliable high-speed internet available in most expat areas.
Numerous coworking spaces like Dojo and Outpost.
Da Nang
Stable and fast internet, suitable for remote work.
Affordable coworking spaces with fewer crowds.
---
Infrastructure for Remote Work
Bali
Many villas and apartments are equipped with home offices.
Plenty of cafés designed for digital nomads.
Da Nang
Modern apartments often include dedicated workspaces.
Quiet cafés and coworking spaces offer peaceful work environments.
---
Visa Options for Remote Workers
Bali
D12 Visa: Renewable for long-term stays.
Investment Visa: Ideal for starting a business.
Visa agents simplify the process for expats.
Da Nang
Tourist Visa: Short-term but extendable.
Business Visa: Easier to obtain for those working remotely.
Immigration processes are straightforward.
---
Business Opportunities
Industries to Explore
Bali
Tourism: Eco-tourism, wellness retreats, and boutique hotels.
Creative services: Digital marketing, e-commerce, and graphic design.
Food and Beverage: Vegan cafés, beachside bars, and unique dining concepts.
Da Nang
Tourism: Small guesthouses, guided tours, and adventure travel.
Tech startups: Growing interest in IT services and app development.
Education: English teaching schools and training centers.
---
Local Market Potential
Bali
Strong demand for niche tourism experiences and creative businesses.
International clientele ensures steady revenue streams.
Da Nang
Emerging market with opportunities to cater to both locals and expats.
Lower competition makes it easier to establish a foothold.
---
Challenges and Advantages of Starting a Business
Bali
Bureaucratic processes can be lengthy but manageable with a local agent.
Requires some cultural understanding and adaptation.
Da Nang
Easier regulations for small businesses.
Language barriers may require additional effort for communication.
---
Leisure and Quality of Life
Recreation and Activities
Bali
Surfing, diving, and yoga retreats.
Cultural experiences like temple visits and Balinese dance performances.
Da Nang
Beach activities like paddleboarding and swimming.
Day trips to Hoi An, Hue, and Bana Hills.
---
Healthcare and Safety
Bali
International clinics and hospitals in major areas.
Safety is generally good, but traffic can be chaotic.
Da Nang
High-quality hospitals with affordable care.
Safe environment with less crowded streets.
---
Family Life and Education
Bali
International schools and activities for children.
Community events for families.
Da Nang
Fewer international schools but growing options.
Family-friendly atmosphere with clean parks and beaches.
---
Which Destination Fits You Best?
For Entrepreneurs
Bali: Best for creative industries, wellness tourism, and international clients.
Da Nang: Ideal for tech startups, education, and localized services.
For Remote Workers
Bali: Vibrant, diverse, and social, with a more dynamic expat scene.
Da Nang: Quieter and more budget-friendly with a focus on productivity.
For Families and Long-term Expats
Bali: More options for education and community life.
Da Nang: Peaceful environment with a lower cost of living.
---
Future Outlook: Living Your Best Expat Life
Both Bali and Da Nang offer unique opportunities for expats to thrive, whether you’re looking to work remotely, start a business, or enjoy a laid-back lifestyle. These destinations provide exceptional value, a welcoming atmosphere, and endless possibilities for adventure and personal growth.
---
Special Offer from Awaynear
Make your move to Bali or Da Nang hassle-free with Awaynear’s $199 complete guidance package. Sign up here
Save significantly, create a smooth personalized moving processprocess while enjoying the best quality life without the need of exploring it yourself in months.
We’ll help you with:
Flight booking. How to book the most affordable flight.
Accommodation recommendations. How to get the most value. Which platforms to use.
Visa assistance. Which visa type is the most suitable for you. Getting you in touch with the top-rated legal office for an affordable and practical solution.
Business setup advice. Getting your investment or work permit. How to stay long period of time while working online.
Local life experience. One-pager how to get the most of your stay. Where to go to eat, clubbing, interacting with locals, surfing, sightseeing, etc. You will be provided a one-pager document that will save you money and guiding you for the best experience.
1-hour personalized research for your unique needs. Whether you want to visit Bali or Da Nang, or make a long-term move, we have the answers custom prepared for you. We will be sending you a form for you to share your custom case while answering your questions.
Half-hour zoom call to set up your move. As we deliver all the information, know-how, and custom research for your move, we will schedule a call to further answer your questions making sure you are on the way to make the most of your move.
--
Steps
You will receive an email with the documentation and personalization form that you can fill in online.
We will return to you with our personalized research for your case (location, work requirements, business specific research, and more)
We will then set up a half-hour zoom call to finalize and get you ready for your move to one of the most beautiful and fulfilling expat locations in the world.
--
If you have any questions before you start, you can email to: buildthefuture@awaynear.com
--
Life is beautiful and it is up to us to make it a rich experience.
Comments