Canggu Calling: The Insider’s Guide to Living Your Best Life as a Digital Nomad
Welcome to “Canggu Calling: The Insider’s Guide to Living Your Best Life as a Digital Nomad.” Canggu is a vibrant and thriving destination, attracting digital nomads from all over the world with its pristine beaches, bustling cafes, and lively atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just starting your digital nomad journey, this guide has everything you need to know to make the most of your time in Canggu. From finding the perfect coworking space to exploring the best surf spots, this guide provides insider tips and recommendations to help you live your best life as a digital nomad in this tropical paradise. So, pack your bags, grab your laptop, and let’s get started!
Canggu is a popular destination for digital nomads, providing a unique combination of seaside living, yoga classes, and proximity to many great cafes. Whether you’re planning to stay a few weeks or a few months, this guide will cover everything you need to know about short and extended stays in the town of Canggu.
From the places to stay and cafes to coworking spaces and things to do, it’s all here for you. Discover why people from all over the world come here yearly; Canggu provides steady wifi, amazing food options, and beautiful beach vibes. As a bonus, there are plenty of activities, such as yoga studios, surfing spots, and enticing nightlife, that draw people back over and over again.
This guide will give you an inside look into what it’s like living in Canggu as a digital nomad:
- What are the best places to stay or eat?
- Where can you find affordable local transport?
- What kind of community should I expect?
- What workspaces are available for my needs?
- How safe is the neighborhood where I intend to live?
- Staying there longer-term Rentals etc.
After reading this guide, you’ll have all the knowledge needed to touchdown into Canggu confidently!
Accommodation
Canggu is a popular destination for digital nomads looking for an idyllic location with plenty of accommodation options. There are various options available that will fit any budget, from luxurious resorts to more budget-friendly hostels. Whether you’re looking for a quiet getaway or a bustling party spot, there’s something for everyone in Canggu.
Let’s explore the accommodation options in more detail:
Short-term rentals
Short-term rentals are a popular accommodation option for travelers and those seeking temporary housing on a short-term basis. These rentals offer flexible options for travelers, ranging from hotel rooms and private apartments to shared rooms and homes. Short-term rentals typically last only a few weeks or months and often come unfurnished, allowing guests to bring their furniture or rent items from the provider.
The internet has made it easier than ever to find short-term rental options, as dozens of websites are dedicated to helping travelers find affordable accommodations. Most websites allow users to search for specific cities, neighborhoods, budget preferences, and amenities – allowing them to find the perfect spot that meets their needs. Additionally, most providers offer discounts or promotional deals to entice new customers throughout the year.
Short-term rental companies allow guests to experience a city on their own terms while also providing flexibility and affordability – making this an ideal option for those looking for temporary living solutions.
Long-term rentals
Long-term rentals are a great option for those looking to stay in a specific area for an extended period. They can range from furnished apartments to residential suites and offer benefits such as lower monthly costs, greater stability, more flexibility with contract terms and obligations, and creation of a legal tenancy agreement.
When searching for long-term rental accommodation, it is important to consider factors such as location, amenities, and cost. It would help if you spent time researching properties online and visiting the area before signing the contract. You should also read through the contract carefully before signing and ask questions if you have any doubts about any clauses or conditions included in it.
Common types of long-term rental accommodation include:
- Furnished apartments typically have bedrooms, private bathrooms, kitchenettes, and laundry facilities.
- Condominiums may offer additional features such as balconies or patios.
- Residential suites can range from studio-style units with one bedroom to luxury penthouse properties with several rooms spread throughout multiple floors.
- Villas, which may be located on private property or inside a gated community, offer more space and privacy than apartments.
It is also important to understand that landlords may require you to pay extra charges, including damage deposits or realty fees when renting long-term, so these should be considered when budgeting for your accommodation.
Coworking spaces
Coworking spaces are shared workspaces that offer members access to amenities, including hot desking, meeting rooms, high-speed internet connection, kitchen and refreshment areas, and even administrative services. Most coworking spaces also provide a common area for informal networking opportunities.
Many workers find the atmosphere at these workspaces to be more conducive to productivity than in traditional office settings. With no long-term commitments required, they can also be an ideal choice for freelancers or entrepreneurs who need an affordable but professional workspace on an as-needed basis.
Activities
Canggu, located on the southwestern coast of Bali in Indonesia, is a popular destination for digital nomads. A traveler can find plenty of activities to enjoy in this paradise, from surfing to scuba diving, yoga to shopping. If you’re looking for some activities to fill up your itinerary there, then look no further. We’ve got you covered with the ultimate guide to activities in Canggu.
Surf spots
Surfing is an outdoor activity popular amongst beach and ocean lovers, in which you ride the waves with a specially-designed surfboard. While any body of water with waves can be used for surfing, some locations are renowned for their perfect conditions for beginners and experienced surfers. To make the most of your surfing experience, knowing where to find the best spots in Canggu is helpful.
- Berawa Beach is a great spot for beginners, as the waves are usually calm and relatively small. Plenty of shops along the beach where you can rent boards and wetsuits.
- For experienced surfers, Echo Beach is the place to be. Located a few minutes from Berawa, Echo Beach has consistent waves up to two meters in height and plenty of breaks for different skill levels.
- Pererenan Beach is also a great spot for experienced riders, as the waves are faster and more powerful.
Restaurants
Canggu is an excellent destination for foodies, allowing you to explore a variety of cuisines from all over the world. Various restaurants offer classic Balinese dishes and other international flavors such as Mexican, Italian, or Indian cuisine. There are plenty of high-end restaurants in Canggu (many of which are clustered around Eat Street), but there are also plenty of budget-friendly eateries for those on a tight budget. Here are some recommended places to eat:
- Old Man’s: Widely regarded as the ‘premiere casual beach bar,’ Old Man’s offers great eats and exciting nightlife activity.
- Naughty Nuri’s Warung: This place serves delicious BBQ with a side order of salsa music and regular saxophone renditions!
- Monsieur Spoon: This cafe offers up French cuisine at affordable prices – perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
- Mile End Kitchen & Bar: Enjoy tasty Mexican dishes at this vibrant restaurant in the center of Canggu.
Shopping
Shopping can be a fun and rewarding experience. It can also be a stressful chore that can drain your energy and purse. Whether it’s a quick stop for household items or a day-long spree for the latest fashion trends, there are plenty of activities to consider when you’re on the go.
Retail stores offer a variety of merchandise to choose from, including clothes, shoes, furniture, electronics, home supplies, jewelry, and more. Browse department stores’ latest styles and fashions or find the highest quality goods in specialty boutiques. Check mall sales flyers for deals and discounts on your favorite products. Price comparison websites such as Shopzilla and PriceGrabber also offer helpful comparisons between online vendors and in-store retailers.
If shopping online is your style, think about utilizing services such as Amazon Prime for discounted prices on necessities like groceries or household items in addition to their vast library of books, movies, and music. You may even stumble upon unique products that can’t be found elsewhere with their selection of third-party sellers. And don’t forget local shops – these small businesses often have unique one-of-a-kind items that you won’t find elsewhere at competitive prices!
Transport
Canggu, Bali, is a great destination for digital nomads and has plenty of transport options to get around. Whether you want to drive yourself, take a taxi, rent a moped, find uber, or use public transport, there are plenty of ways to get from A to B.
In this guide, we’ll go through the different options for transport in Canggu and how to make the most of them when you’re exploring the area:
Bicycles
Bicycles are a sustainable, healthy, and economical form of transport used worldwide. Bikes are increasingly popular for commuting to work and exploring cities and the countryside. They come in various types, some designed specifically for children or touring extended distances.
The main advantages of using bicycles include the following:
- Cost-effectiveness: bicycling is substantially more affordable than public transportation or car purchasing.
- Health benefits: cycling helps to improve physical fitness levels, reduce body fat levels, strengthen bones and muscles, reduce stress, boost self-esteem, provide fresh air and sunlight exposure, reduce pollution emissions from motorized transport, and create an overall sense of well-being.
- Sustainability: compared with vehicle transportation, cycling has a significantly lower environmental impact in terms of producing fewer greenhouse gas emissions to move a person over a given distance.
When considering how best to equip your bike for its intended purpose, there are several additional items that you may want to take into account. These include:
- Lights (front/rear),
- Locks (for when out and about),
- Mudguards (to keep you dry while riding) as well as additional add-ons like baskets/panniers (for carrying items) or racks (for attaching bulky objects).
It would help if you also kept safety in mind by wearing appropriate reflective clothing when riding at night or in areas with limited visibility. Moreover, it can be beneficial for cyclists looking for improved speed and efficiency to purchase specialized tires based on their use requirements, such as road racing tires that have been designed specifically for speed or off-road versions designed with more robust rubber compounds which can better handle rough terrains such as gravel paths or deep sand trails.
Motorbikes
Motorbikes come in various shapes and sizes and have several advantages over larger vehicles. They allow two people to travel together, often parked in much smaller spaces than a car would require. They’re less expensive to buy, maintain, and store while being more fuel efficient. As gasoline engines power most, they can provide an opportunity for customizing with performance parts and accessories, improving the bike’s speed and power.
When considering a motorbike purchase, it is important to consider all aspects of how it will be used. Will it be ridden on the road or used in off-road conditions? Is it intended for occasional use, or will you use it frequently? Make sure you choose one that isn’t too powerful for your needs but also offers enough performance capabilities to suit you. In terms of cost, motorcycles vary from entry-level machines costing around $4,000 up to luxury models with prices into six figures.
Once you have chosen your motorcycle, ensure that you have suitable insurance cover and protective clothing such as helmets, gloves, and leather when necessary. Ensure that all recommended maintenance requirements, such as oil changes at regular intervals, are completed to keep your motorcycle running safely and effectively.
Taxis
Taxis provide an effective and convenient method of transport, offering a range of benefits for users. Taxis can be hailed on the street or ordered by phone, allowing them to be quickly accessed in times of need. Taxis also often provide greater safety than public transport, as the user can travel in a vehicle with familiar surroundings. Furthermore, taxis are typically better maintained than other forms of public transportation, providing more reliability and comfort when traveling. Additionally, they offer flexibility in that they can take you anywhere you desire within their coverage area – unlike buses or trains, which are confined to specific routes.
Taxis may be slightly more expensive than other forms of public transport but typically offer a cheaper service than private vehicles such as car hire services. Some countries require taxis to have a meter that displays how much each journey will cost; this ensures fairness for both driver and customer sending the charge prior to using the service. Despite the relatively higher cost associated with taxi services, it is widely used by many due to its convenience and flexibility – making it optimal for short journeys or those needing a swift response from their transport provider.
Health and Safety
Health and safety should be your top priority when traveling and living in a foreign country. When you’re in Canggu, you want to make sure that you’re aware of the laws, customs, and practices that are in place to keep you safe and healthy.
In this guide, we will discuss the health and safety tips that you should follow to ensure that you stay safe and sound during your stay in Canggu:
Insurance
Insurance is one of the most important considerations when planning a digital nomad trip, especially a solo journey. While some countries require proof of health insurance before permitting entry, at minimum, all travelers should have access to comprehensive travel insurance to cover unexpected medical emergencies; sudden cancellations; lost and delayed luggage; and other unplanned mishaps that could impede your ability to work and explore safely in Canggu.
It’s essential to research various providers for the best coverage for your needs and always read through the small print carefully. Consider factors such as activities you plan to partake in, whether surf and scuba lessons or hikes through rice paddies and extended coverage if you plan to extend your stay beyond the duration of your original policy. Make sure you are aware of any local laws or customs which might affect what type of cover you will need while traveling, including laws related to motor vehicles.
Finally, ensure the provider offers 24-hour emergency support in case anything goes awry – it’s wise to have their contact number saved somewhere on your phone, so it’s within easy access if necessary. Good luck with creating a fun and safe journey!
Vaccinations
For travelers, vaccinations are recommended for protection against possible infectious diseases. Depending on where you’re traveling, you might need to obtain a vaccination before entering the country. Generally, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider or your local travel clinic to ensure that you are properly vaccinated for all the destinations you will be visiting.
When visiting Canggu, Bali, certain vaccinations should be taken into consideration as they may reduce the risk of contracting an infectious disease while traveling:
- Hepatitis A and B protect against liver infections caused by two different viruses, respectively.
- Rabies is a virus mainly spread through contact with raw or undercooked animal products.
- Typhoid is a bacterial infection often acquired through contaminated water and food.
- Influenza recommends annual updates and is particularly important when traveling during flu season.
- Japanese Encephalitis is spread by mosquito bites, particularly in areas with high disease activity.
- Tetanus/diphtheria/pertussis (whooping cough) protection lasts for 10 years and can help prevent more serious illnesses if contracted.
It’s also important to keep in mind additional requirements, such as exploring general aviation safety protocols and gathering knowledge about specific security operations to protect your health and safety while traveling abroad. Regular research before departure is encouraged to stay up-to-date with any changes or last-minute updates.
Local laws
Familiarizing yourself with the local laws, customs, and expectations of the place you’ll be visiting is important. Knowing what’s allowed and what isn’t will help you stay out of trouble and make the best of your digital nomad adventure.
In Canggu specifically, the most important thing to know is that it’s illegal to drink alcohol in public places after 10 pm, including parks, public squares, beaches, discos, and more. Additionally, Indonesia has implemented a severe drug policy that includes death or life imprisonment for many drugs; as a digital nomad in Canggu or anywhere in Indonesia, it’s mandatory to abide by these laws.
Other laws that are applicable while being a digital nomad in Canggu include:
- Always drive safely and never without valid papers; there are radar cameras all over the city, so speeding can result in hefty fines or license points if you fail to stop when signaled by police officers.
- Always be aware of your moral conduct when traveling with children – avoid placing yourself in situations that may cause misunderstanding or suspicion.
- Do not attempt to transport restricted items into Indonesia; double-checking before packing is advised for both customs regulations and potential quarantine restrictions ranging from food items to electronic devices.
- Stay updated with visa restrictions, as they can vary depending on the type (tourist visa vs. work visa).
By being familiar with local laws, customs, and expectations, you’ll be able to travel worry-free for a safe and enjoyable experience during your stay in Canggu!
Working out
Keeping physically active while living and working in Canggu is imperative for digital nomads. Whether you’re looking to remain healthy by avoiding falling into sedentary lifestyle habits or simply wanting to take advantage of the many outdoor activities available, staying fit is an important part of any successful digital nomad experience.
In addition to taking walks on the beach or exploring nearby rice paddy trails, there are several fitness facilities and activities to choose from in Canggu. The area is home to various yoga studios offering classes for all levels of experience and gyms, dance studios, and martial arts schools. Check out the brand new Gym at Finns Recreation Club.
Conclusion
Canggu has long been a favorite destination among digital nomads, and it’s easy to see why. From its array of beach and surf spots to its idyllic temples, bustling markets, restaurants, bars, and nightlife – there is something here for everyone. Canggu truly rivals some of the best cities in Southeast Asia regarding its digital nomad experience.
Finally, remember that the cost of living is incredibly low in Canggu compared to other places in Bali. The wide range of lodgings available offers affordable rates, and the city even runs coworking spaces at an affordable price, making it a more affordable digital nomad destination than many cities worldwide. Canggu is simply perfect for those looking to take their dedication to telecommute on the road and enjoy all that Bali has to offer without spending too much money – Canggu is simply perfect!