Laura

Thailand vs Bali: which one is actually better for living? I've spent 2 years living in both, and here's my take. Also, Bali is not Indonesia (more developed and different religion). Don't confuse the two. 1. Cost of living Both can be affordable, but Thailand has become noticeably more expensive. In Bali, you can still find good deals, depending on the area and your standards. 2. Food Thailand: sugar and MSG everywhere. Finding genuinely healthy food can be surprisingly hard. Bali: much easier to find healthy cafés, good ingredients and decent food. Bangkok is the exception in Thailand. 3. Beaches Thailand wins for me. Generally cleaner beaches and better swimming spots. Bali has a serious rubbish problem, especially during rainy season. 4. Everyday life Thailand wins thanks to 7/11 (the best convenience store in Asia) Better infrastructure in many areas, too. 5. Getting around Pretty much the same story in both. Get a scooter and accept the traffic. it's heavier in Bali tho 6. Visas Thailand's DTV: $350 for 5 years, multiple entry. Bali's remote worker visa (E33G): around $440 for 1 year, plus proof of $60k annual income and $2k in savings. Thailand is a much better deal if you qualify. My verdict Thailand for convenience, infrastructure and beaches. Bali for healthy food, cafés and lifestyle. Neither is perfect. It really depends on what matters most to you.