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Bali Life Unfiltered

Author: Hannah Mardi and Michelle Woodham

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Bali Life Unfiltered is a podcast about life in Bali — as it actually is.

Hosted by Michelle and Hannah, two long-term expats living on the island, the show shares real conversations and practical insight on travel, moving, raising kids, and building a life abroad.

Personal. Practical. Honest.

Looking for a step-by-step roadmap? Grab our Bali Travel & Moving Guides - https://stan.store/balilifeunfiltered

Follow us on Instagram @balilifeunfiltered 🤍
28 Episodes
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In this episode, we sit down with Anya from Legal Legends Indonesia to break down what’s actually going on, without the confusing jargon or outdated advice.We talk through the main visa options people are using right now, what’s changed in recent years, and why so many people get it wrong. From short stays to moving with kids, working remotely, starting a business or investing in property - we cover the real scenarios our listeners are facing.We also get into business setup in Bali, including PT PMA structures, and what people need to know before registering a company here. Plus, we touch on something not often talked about - what it’s like navigating visas and logistics if you’re having a baby in Bali.Anya shares the biggest mistakes she sees, common myths that won’t go away, and the things that used to work in Bali… but don’t anymore.If you’re planning a move, already here, or just trying to make sense of it all - this episode will save you time, money, and a lot of stress.Hannah has personally used Legal Legends for both KITAS & PT PMA set-up. You can find more info at:https://legallegendsindonesia.comhttps://www.instagram.com/legallegendsindonesia/
This week we’re diving into the Bali most people only see on Pinterest - private villas, cliff-top dinners, yacht days and once-in-a-lifetime celebration moments.If you had unlimited budget for 4 days in Bali… what would you book first?We break down why Bali works so well for honeymoons, milestone birthdays, hens & bucks, luxury group trips and even wellness retreats - and the real differences between jungle romance in Ubud, cliff-top icons in Uluwatu, private yachts vs beach clubs, and party weekends vs sober luxury escapes.We’re also answering the big questions:- Is Bali still the ultimate hens destination?- What budget do you actually need in 2026?And if we were planning our own 40ths… where would we book?If you’re planning something big in Bali, this is your curated guide.🎧 Hit play. And if you’re overwhelmed… DM us. We’ll tell you where to actually book.We’ve partnered with Beam & Bare — use code BLU30 for 30% off your first laser hair removal treatment. WhatsApp them directly to book. You’re welcome 😉
In this episode of Bali Life Unfiltered, we talk honestly about how living on the island has changed from 2022 to now… and the parts no one really prepares you for.From mindset shifts, raising kids without family nearby, and the emotional weight of living overseas, to traffic frustrations, admin chaos, and the mental load that comes with building a life far from home - this is our most honest conversation yet.But despite the challenges, we also share why we’re still here and what Bali continues to give us that nowhere else quite does.We chat about:• What shocked us when we first moved vs what surprises us now• Funny but painfully real Bali frustrations 😅• What’s gotten better… and what’s definitely gotten harder• Why Bali changed us, and why leaving isn’t as simple as it sounds• Who Bali is actually for (and who it’s not)This isn’t a “Bali is perfect” episode, it’s the balanced, honest version.🎧 Hit play, subscribe, and follow along for real conversations about life in Bali.💛 If you’re thinking about moving here or planning a trip, our Bali Guides were created from everything we share in episodes like this:Bali Moving GuideBali Travel Guide Follow us on IG @balilifeunfiltered
In our first episode of the year, we’re getting you up to speed on everything that’s coming in Bali Life Unfiltered, and what Bali itself looks like heading into 2026.We cover:• What’s new in Season 2 (and what’s changing)• Why we created our Bali Travel & Moving Guides• Christmas & New Year in Bali• The biggest updates for 2026 — new schools, resorts, festivals, flights, roads & infrastructure• What all of this actually means for families, expats and visitorsMore practical. More local. More honest. Less vanilla Bali.▶️ Prefer video? Full episodes are available on YouTube📘 Our Bali guides and FREE checklists are linked belowGUIDESThe Travel Guide - $29usdThe Moving Guide - $69usd FREE CHECKLISTSYour Travel ChecklistYour Moving Checklist
It’s our final episode of Season 1, and we’re diving into what Christmas in Bali really looks like. From beach-day vibes and resort brunches to expat Friendmas traditions, peak-season chaos, fireworks, and how it all compares to Christmas in the UK and Australia. We share our own festive stories, what’s happening around the island, and tips for surviving (or escaping) Bali in December.Tune in for sunshine, laughs, and a Bali-style Christmas wrap-up. As Season 1 comes to an end, we wanted to say a huge thank-you to everyone who’s been listening, sending messages, and sharing the show. Season 2 drops in January - and keep an eye out for our new Travel & Moving Guides coming soon.Hit follow, subscribe, and have the best Christmas & New Year - see you in 2026 🎉
We’re sharing Our Bali Hot List - a curated mix of the places we’re eating, drinking and shopping around the island right now. From chic new restaurant openings and hidden gems to the beauty spots and wellness rituals we’re loving, this episode is all about the Bali places that truly stand out.We chat through favourites like Nude, Longtime, Ding Ding Hot Pot, Meimei and Muda by Suka, along with the salons, boutiques and routines that keep us feeling our best. Think pilates, facials, hair spa moments, and our go-to fashion and lifestyle finds.Plus a quick round of Bali “This or That.”Perfect if you want a refined, up-to-date guide on where to eat, drink, shop and live well in Bali. 👉 Tune in and listen to the full episode now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts and YouTube.Some of the places we mention in this episode:FaceDayLokoaStacked by CelesteMaria Curau
Dreaming of Bali but not sure where to start? In this episode, we break down the perfect 10-day Bali itinerary — a mix of adventure, culture, and total relaxation.We take you from the lush rice terraces and temples of Ubud, to the peaceful black-sand beaches of Lovina, the lively cafés and surf scene of Canggu, and the cliffside sunsets of Uluwatu. You’ll also hear our honest travel tips — when to visit, how to get around, what to avoid, and why hiring a driver can make or break your trip.We share listener questions, funny travel stories, and real talk about how to make the most of your time - whether you’re coming for 10 days or planning to stay longer.If Bali’s been on your bucket list, this is your sign to start planning.Some of the places we mention in this episode:Rocky Fast Cruise - https://rockyfastcruise.comSetia Fast Ferry - https://setiafastferry.comPyramids of Chi - https://ubud.pyramidsofchi.comThe Yoga Barn - https://theyogabarn.com👉 Hit play, subscribe to Bali Life Unfiltered, and follow us on Instagram @balilifeunfiltered for more travel tips, expat stories, and Bali inspo.
This week on Bali Life Unfiltered, we get real about what life in Bali looks like right now — from riding the beer cycle and braving Frankensteins, to helping our community through the devastating floods.We chat about our latest adventures — the party bus, a cocktail-making class, Padel competitions, The Big Bounce, and even a wild Gojek scam — plus some quieter moments like date nights, building plans in Ungasan, and solo parenting.But it’s not just about the highlights. We dive into how Bali has slowed us down, shifted our friendships, and shaped the way we parent and build a life far from home.If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to trade city life for island living — the good, the hard, and the unfiltered — this episode is for you.👉 Tune in for laughs, lessons, and a few heartfelt moments — and share your own Bali lessons with us on Instagram @balilifeunfilteredSome of the businesses we mention in this episode:@ragamfoundation - non profit organisation supporting those in need@frankensteinslaboratorybali@merahputihbali@balibeercycle
Thinking of making the move to Bali? In this episode we sit down with Simone from Our Year in Bali, the go-to relocation service helping families, couples, and individuals make the transition with confidence. We talk about what people always underestimate, the biggest misconceptions, how Bali has changed over the years, and what Simone’s clients really want to know before moving. Plus, we cover schools, visas, jobs, and cultural must-knows — with a special discount for our listeners.Use discount code BLU10 to get 10% off:- The Bali School & Education Guide- Any of Simone's packages (Bronze, Silver or Gold) Add the code directly on checkout, or mention Bali Life Unfiltered on your FREE discovery call to claim the discount.This discount is valid up until 31st December 2025.IG: https://www.instagram.com/ouryearinbaliWebsite: https://ouryearinbali.com/?ref=BLU
Our first Bali travel tips episode was a hit, so we’re back with even more insider advice for when you’re already on the island. From the truth about “cheap Bali” and the reality behind Instagram illusions, to how to stay safe, avoid scams, and keep your family happy — we cover it all. We answer your listener questions, bust myths, share must-try experiences, and give practical advice on money, health, culture, and getting around with kids. If you’re planning a trip, this is the guide you wish you had before you landed.Some of the things we mention in this episode:- Bali Kidz Hire, Use Discount Code BKHUF10 at checkout for 10% off: https://www.balikidzhire.shop/?fbclid- Go Nanny, Use Discount Code UNFILTERED10 at checkout via their App for 10% off. Head to https://www.go-nanny.id to download!- Brand New All-in-one Customs Form to Complete Before/On Arrival: https://allindonesia.imigrasi.go.idWatch us on ⁠⁠Youtube⁠⁠Find us on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠If you enjoyed today’s episode, share it with a friend and help us spread the buzz about life in Bali!
This week on Bali Buzz we’ve got it all — theme parks, demolitions, shootings, and even a brand-new ferris wheel. From the heartbreaking demolition of long-standing warungs under adat law, to the shocking shooting of an Australian man at Munggu beach, Bali is buzzing with stories you won’t believe. We also cover volcano eruptions, immigration crackdowns, the new Berawa shortcut, gym staff scandals, and plans for a shiny new theme park. Bali never sits still — and neither do we.Watch us on YoutubeFind us on InstagramIf you enjoyed today’s episode, share it with a friend and help us spread the buzz about life in Bali!
This week we’re swapping scooters and rice fields for planes, passports, and some very different adventures. Hannah takes us through her whirlwind trip to Dubai, Turkey, and the UK for some long-overdue family time, while Michelle shares her European summer — exploring Turkey, Munich, Paris, Provence, Marrakech, and a month of life in Spain to see if it could be home one day. From chaotic travel stories to little cultural surprises, here’s what happened when we left Bali behind.You can Watch us on ⁠Youtube⁠Find us on ⁠Instagram⁠If you enjoyed today’s episode, share it with a friend and help us spread the buzz about life in Bali!
Is living in Bali actually cheaper—or just different? In this episode, we take you through the full breakdown: housing, food, transport, schooling, healthcare, and lifestyle costs. We talk personal bills, surprising expenses, and the hidden fees no one warns you about. Whether you're a digital nomad, family, or retiree, you'll find out if Bali really is the budget dream everyone thinks it is.You can Watch us on ⁠Youtube⁠Find us on ⁠Instagram⁠If you enjoyed today’s episode, share it with a friend and help us spread the buzz about life in Bali!
There’s more to Bali than beachclubs, bintangs and Canggu - and in this episode, we prove it. We’re diving deep into Ubud, Lovina, Bedugul, and Munduk to show you the more soulful, scenic side of the island.From jungle wellness retreats and spiritual ceremonies to sleepy coastal towns and cool-climate villages in the clouds—this is the Bali you should be visiting.We chat pool clubs vs waterfalls, luwak coffee, dolphin tours, and why so many tourists need to visit these stunning places.🌺 Real stories. Real places. Real Bali.You can Watch us on ⁠Youtube⁠Find us on ⁠Instagram⁠If you enjoyed today’s episode, share it with a friend and help us spread the buzz about life in Bali!
From scooters and saunas to WhatsApp bookings and island time, life in Bali is nothing like the 9-to-5 grind in the West. In this episode, we break down the biggest differences between our lives in Bali and what we left behind in Australia and the UK. We’re talking scooters, slow mornings, nanny life, community, wellness, and how it all shapes parenting, work, and what success really means. If you’ve ever wondered what expat life in Bali is really like—this one's for you.You can Watch us on ⁠Youtube⁠Find us on ⁠Instagram⁠If you enjoyed today’s episode, share it with a friend and help us spread the buzz about life in Bali!
From Padel to red light therapy, Bali’s wellness scene is next level — and a little bit wild. In this episode, we talk all things health and fitness: the gyms we love, the saunas we sweat in, and the questionable treatments we’ve tried in the name of self-care. Whether you're here to lift, stretch, or biohack your way to bliss, we’ve got the lowdown on doing health, Bali-style.Some of the places we mention in this episode:Body Factory - https://www.bodyfactorybali.comRevive + Pilates - https://www.reviveandpilates.studioBSI Integrative Natural Health - https://bsi.internationalBali Healing - https://www.balihealing.comYou can Watch us on ⁠Youtube⁠Find us on ⁠Instagram⁠If you enjoyed today’s episode, share it with a friend and help us spread the buzz about life in Bali!
This month's Bali Buzz — we survived the island-wide blackout (just), and we’re breaking down what really caused it. Plus: an Aussie couple gets deported after 7 months in Bali jail (yes, that Pink Palace one), an epic fail at Cretya and updates on illegal villas being built way too close to the edge. We’ve also got wet weather updates, new speed limits in Pererenan, an update on that Ferris wheel and a bold new move to ban plastic bottles by 2027. Bali is buzzing — let’s get into it.You can Watch us on ⁠Youtube⁠Find us on ⁠Instagram⁠If you enjoyed today’s episode, share it with a friend and help us spread the buzz about life in Bali!
Planning your first trip to Bali? We’ve got you covered with everything you need to know before you arrive. In this episode, we cover 2025 visa options, travel insurance, Bali packing tips (especially with kids), customs forms, airport arrivals, SIM cards, and must-have apps. Whether you’re visiting solo, as a family, or as a digital nomad—this is the ultimate Bali travel checklist you didn’t know you needed.Some of the businesses we mention in this episode:Go-nanny (Use discount code UNFILTERED10 for 10% off): https://www.go-nanny.id Bali Kidz Hire (Use discount code BKHUF10 for 10% off day rate hire): https://www.balikidzhire.shopYou can Watch us on ⁠Youtube⁠Find us on ⁠Instagram⁠If you enjoyed today’s episode, share it with a friend and help us spread the buzz about life in Bali!
In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Veruschka Grandison — fashion designer and founder of Moms in Bali, a community that started as a Facebook group and is now a thriving app supporting thousands of women. From navigating life as a mother and entrepreneur to creating her stunning boutique, Agua De Alma, Veruschka shares how she built a life of purpose and style on the Island of the Gods. If you're curious about starting a business in Bali, building community, or just want a peek behind the scenes of Bali’s creative and expat life — this one’s for you.Here are some of the links mentioned in this episode:Moms in Bali FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/329055268277271Moms in Bali IG - https://www.instagram.com/momsinbali/Moms in Bali Website - ⁠https://www.momsinbali.com⁠Agua de Alma Boutique - https://www.instagram.com/aguadealma/You can Watch us on ⁠Youtube⁠Find us on ⁠Instagram⁠If you enjoyed today’s episode, share it with a friend and help us spread the buzz about life in Bali!
From $10 massages 💆‍♀️ to luxe facials ✨ that leave your skin glowing for days, Bali is the unexpected beauty capital of dreams 🌴 — but not without the occasional facial disaster.In this episode, we dive into our favorite spas 🧖‍♀️, aesthetic treatments 💉, and beauty rituals 💅 that make Bali so addictive.Whether you’re into botox, lymphatic drainage, vampire facials, or Russian manis 💅, we’re spilling where we go, what we love ❤️, and what we’d never do again.Some of the places we mention in this episode:Massage - Spring Spa - https://www.springspa.comGoldust - https://goldustspa.comKoya Spa - http://koyaspabali.comBeauty - Estetica Belle - https://www.esteticabelle.comTrove Artistry - https://www.troveartistry.comJet Black Ginger - https://jetblackginger.comMoii - https://moiiaesthetic.comJade Chen - https://jadechenclinic.comSkin Studio - https://www.skinstudio.idRejuvie - https://rejuvieclinic.comNails - The Rustic Sun - https://therusticsunbali.comMynx - https://mynxemporium.com/You can Watch us on ⁠Youtube⁠Find us on ⁠Instagram⁠If you enjoyed today’s episode, share it with a friend and help us spread the buzz about life in Bali!
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