Long-term residents face challenges in Bali due to traffic, waste, and rising costs

A long-term resident reflects on the realities of living in Bali, highlighting challenges that emerged after the initial "honeymoon phase." The article details significant traffic congestion in areas like Canggu, Seminyak, and Ubud, with average speeds dropping below 20 km/h during peak hours. Bali also faces a worsening waste crisis, exacerbated by the permanent closure of the TPA Suwung landfill in late 2025, leading to trash accumulation and debris washing onto beaches during the rainy season December to March. Rental prices have increased by 20 to 40 percent in popular areas post-pandemic, with contracts often requiring one to three years' payment upfront. Visa processes, particularly the E33G Remote Worker Visa introduced in April 2024, are described as complex, with increased immigration enforcement on unauthorized remote work. Water shortages are a growing concern, with over 65 percent of Bali's freshwater used for tourism, contributing to dropping water tables. Tensions between long-term foreigners and locals are rising due to property price hikes and overtourism, impacting local communities. Bali's international visitor numbers reached 6.33 million in 2024, surpassing pre-pandemic levels, further straining infrastructure. While acknowledging Bali's beauty, the author suggests that the island's evolving complexities, including infrastructure strain and resource anxiety, challenge the idea of it as a permanent, problem-free home.