8 Reasons Why Digital Nomads Can't Get Enough of Canggu

Oh, Canggu…you’re a seductive mistress.

One taste of your beauty and many of us never want to leave. And why would we? Your balmy weather, stunning beaches, and to-die-for sunsets ensnare many of us travelers. We’ve seen the world, and yet, you seem to encapsulate our imaginations. We dream about staying so we can continue to enjoy your many allurements.

And many of us do.

The digital nomad tribe has well and truly descended on this quaint little coastal village. And for good reason:

Cheap accommodation
Amazing food
Great surf
Decent wifi

For these and many other reasons, digital nomads are making Canggu their home. Come on, let's explore further!

8 Reasons Why Digital Nomads Choose Canggu

Bali has a lot more to offer than the party village Kuta and all of its drunken Australians. Not far north is Canggu, a digital nomad’s paradise. A quick check of Nomad List and you’ll see that Canggu is listed number two (previously it held the top spot) as the best places for digital nomads to call home.

Let me show you why.

1. The Weather ⛅

All of Bali, Canggu included, has great weather all year round. The average temperature sits around 81.5°F or 27.5°C while the average rainfall is around 50 inches or 1250mm.

Bali experiences a tropical monsoon climate, meaning the wet seasons are rather long and last from November through April. The driest month is usually January and the wettest generally September.

However, long wet seasons can work in your favor as a nomad: The rainy season is obviously when the island has the fewest tourists, so during this time the prices are at their lowest and the island is less crowded. Perfect for nomads who are in a place longer than the average tourist chasing good weather.

2. The Beaches 🌊

Bali is a perfect destination if you enjoy the beach, especially if you are a surfer. Canggu, in particular, is famous for its longboard-friendly waves. It’s great for budding surfers or more experienced surfers alike.

If you are more of a chiller and prefer to bathe in the still water rather than get pumped by breakers, don’t despair. There are plenty of picturesque swimming spots. Or why not strap on a snorkel and explore what the reefs, not far offshore, have to offer.

3. Your Safety 👮

The island is the main travel destination in Indonesia, so foreigners are very welcome. You’ll find that the locals are very calm and relaxed, although, in some more popular areas like Kuta or Seminyak, they may hassle you to buy something from their roadside store.

In Canggu, you’ll find the locals more welcoming and laid back. It’s a perfect mix between the local-life and the relaxed style of a digital nomad existence. Unlike the predominantly Muslim mainland of Indonesia, most Balinese hold Hindu beliefs and have no problem with wearing revealing swimwear or enjoying a cheeky beer on the beach.

And there’s no better way to relax after a long day behind your laptop.

4. Living Costs 💰

The monthly cost of living in Bali is much less than in most western countries. Rent varies between $300 to $1,100 USD, depending on your location and standard of living. A motorbike or scooter will cost around $60 for rent and fuel. Eating out will cost between $300 and $500 per month. And a little play money for yoga, massages, or scuba diving will likely cost $75 to $150 a month.

So, to live in Canggu, you’re probably looking at an average monthly cost of between $900 and $1,200. Again, all dependant on your budget and living expectations, either way, that wouldn’t come close to paying off most people's rent in a western city.

5. Cuisine And Coffee 🍲

There are a wide range of cafes, restaurants, and “warungs” (the traditional Indonesian food house) to suit any taste in Canggu. You can find anything from western favorites, such as pizza or hamburgers, to healthier options like juice bars, vegetarian or vegan eateries.

More importantly though, coffee is thankfully a big deal in Canggu (probably because it’s a digital nomad’s best friend). There is no shortage of great coffee shops and cafes to hang out in to get some pressing work done.

6. The Language 💬

Practically all business owners in Bali speak some form of English, even if it is just a few words. This allows foreigners to easily integrate themselves into a place like Canggu.

That’s not to say you shouldn’t at least pick up a few words to speak to locals. The Balinese always appreciate the effort, even if you aren’t great at pronouncing some of their words. Although there is a traditional Malayo-Polynesian Balinese language, most Balinese people speak Bahasa Indonesian, which is the language spoken on the mainland. You may want to visit some of the coworking spaces that hold Bahasa Indonesian classes. This will help you get you up to speed with common phrases and traditions.

7. Visa 📑

It isn’t necessary to obtain a visa before you fly into Bali, although it all depends on how long you are planning on staying. A visa on arrival is valid for 30 days, which can be extended to 60 days for a fee. However, if you plan on staying longer then 60 days, it is best to check with your local authorities as it varies depending on where you are from. Most people simply make a visa run to another South-East Asian country before returning for another month or two.

8. The Coworking Spaces 🏬

There are heaps of places in Canggu to catch up with friends or meet new fellow digital nomads. For a small fee, you and your coworkers can rent a quality workspace for the day to smash out some serious work. Prices range from $10 to $20 for a day or $50 to $250 a month. When split between a few people, it’s a great option if you are in need of some peace and quiet and reliable wifi connection.

There you have it! The next time you’re considering packing up and finding your next working (or holiday) destination, give Canggu a thought. This little paradise certainly won’t disappoint.