In the bustling heart of Barcelona, Elias Johansson often found himself yearning for a different pace of life. An accomplished architect, Elias had a stable career and a lovely home, but the routine of city life left him dreaming of more. It was during one particularly stressful evening in early 2022 that make them sure move to Bali.
Can you tell us about the moment you decided to move to Bali?
Elias: It was early 2022. The city of Barcelona, with its vibrancy and ceaseless activity, had begun to feel stifling. My profession as an architect provided stability, yet the frenetic pace left me yearning for a more balanced life.
One evening, over a quiet tea with Sofia, we watched Emma and Lucas play and a thought took root. I had been reading about Bali—its serene landscapes, slower pace of life, and strong community spirit. It seemed like the perfect place for us to connect more deeply as a family. Sofia, always the free-spirited artist, was immediately intrigued. That conversation was the beginning of our new journey, move to Bali.
How did you go about planning this big move?
Elias: The decision required thorough research. We talked to friends who had visited Bali and reached out to expatriates living there. We discovered that Bali offered a lower cost of living, excellent international schools, and a culture rich in tradition and natural beauty. The final piece fell into place when my firm offered me a remote position, allowing me to work from anywhere. Sofia’s art business was flexible, too, which made the dream of move to Bali a realistic prospect.
When did you finally make the move and how was the transition?
Sofia: We move to Bali in the summer of 2022. It was a mixture of excitement and trepidation. Packing up our lives in Barcelona and stepping into the unknown was daunting. There were moments of doubt and homesickness, but the warmth of the Balinese people and the supportive expatriate community quickly made us feel at home.
Why did you choose Ubud specifically?
Elias: Ubud was an obvious choice because of Empathy School International. We wanted the best for Emma and Lucas, and this school had a stellar reputation. It turned out to be a fantastic decision. The school became a central part of our daily lives, offering more than we ever expected.
What does your daily life look like now in Bali?
Elias: Every morning, I drive Emma and Lucas to school on a scooter, which they find thrilling. I work remotely from a nearby café with serene surroundings. After school, the kids engage in activities like exploring local temples and participating in community service projects. Sofia loves the creative atmosphere of her new art studio, where she collaborates with local artists and holds workshops. Evenings are spent dining at Ubud’s health-conscious restaurants, enjoying meals that are both delicious and nutritious. Weekends are for beach trips, hiking through rice terraces, and visiting lively markets.
How have you adapted to the local culture?
Sofia: We’ve immersed ourselves in the local culture, participating in festivals and community events. The daily offerings and the scent of incense have become comforting rituals. Emma and Lucas have made friends from around the world and picked up new languages. My art has flourished in the collaborative environment of my studio.
Reflecting on your move, how do you feel now?
Elias: Years have passed, and I often reflect on our bold decision. Moving to Bali didn’t just change our environment; it brought us closer as a family. We traded the fast-paced life of Barcelona for the serene, enriching experiences of Ubud.
I’ve found immense satisfaction in designing sustainable homes here, blending my architectural skills with local materials and styles. Sofia’s studio has become a hub of creativity and community, and our family’s health and well-being have improved significantly thanks to Bali’s focus on wellness and outdoor activities.
What has this move meant for your family?
Elias: Move to Bali gave us more than a new home; it gave us a new way of life. The island’s beauty, its people, and the rich cultural experiences have transformed us in ways we never imagined. Our journey from Barcelona to Ubud shows that sometimes, the boldest decisions lead to the most fulfilling experiences. For us, Bali was more than a destination – it was the start of a joyful new chapter in our lives.
