After the pandemic, many digital nomads embraced the shift from working from home (WFH) to working from anywhere (WFA). Bali, with its tropical island vibe in Southeast Asia, became a popular spot to work remotely. That’s why a trip to Bali can be a combo of vacation, quality downtime, or a comfortable remote work experience all at once.
The next question to think about before going to Bali is choosing a place to live, "should you stay in a coliving space or a villa?" To help you decide, let’s take a closer look at both options!
Coliving
Coliving is a new trendy way of living where you have your own private bedroom (or sometimes a shared room), all within a community space that usually includes shared common spaces like the kitchen, lounge, and work areas/coworking space.
It’s suitable for budget-conscious people because the cost usually comes as an all-in-one package, covering electricity, high-speed Wi-Fi, water, and housekeeping. Coliving also lets you pay upfront somehow with low deposits. So, it makes expenses predictable.
One of the great things about coliving is its flexibility. Most places offer weekly packages with various facilities, so you don’t have to commit to a whole month like with boarding houses or a year like with villas.
If you enjoy the slowmad lifestyle (traveling and working at your own pace), coliving not only helps you build social connections. For extrovert souls, it's a fantastic way to meet new people while most coliving properties are located near modern urban cities, trendy café, popular districts or downtown areas in Bali.
Basically, it’s ideal for solo travelers, remote workers and freelancers. As their work schedule is rather unstable, like sometimes they have tasks to complete, sometimes they have free time.
So, here are some common coliving facilities you can expect:
A fully equipped private bedroom
Shared kitchen, lounge, and workspaces
Electricity, stable Wi-Fi, and water
Scheduled weekly cleaning for communal space
Scheduled room cleaning
Community events and a lively social atmosphere
The Pros
Support with the same community. It's a perfect melting pot for digital nomads or travelers to network effortlessly.
Sometimes it has a bundle package coworking membership. So you can switch when to get work or join the social scene.
Good internet, utilities, room cleaning, and all you need for maintenance are all handled.
Coliving helps increase productivity. That’s because coworking spaces are available 24/7, and you can work in your favorable time.
The community makes it easier for you to get new friends, acquaintances, or prospective clients.
The most affordable and flexible choice for a solo traveler.
The Cons:
People share certain areas with others. This means there can be some downsides when it comes to privacy.
Noise can also be an issue. As rooms are often close together, there's a possibility to hear sounds from neighboring rooms.
Coliving is generally not designed for couples or families, and it can be more expensive than renting a villa for a whole year.
The existing community can be positive or negative, depending on the community.
Renting a Villa
Villa is an independent house you can rent, usually featuring a private pool, garden, and several bedrooms, located close to cultural spots (sacred candi or pura Bali) or beautiful natural surroundings like the sea, forest, rice fields, or mountains.
Villas bring you a unique, authentic experience. They’re built in villages away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Many come with private pools, spacious living rooms, private kitchens, and cozy gardens to relax in. While the cost might be higher for individuals, if you’re sharing with family or friends, it can feel more affordable and worthwhile.
The Pros:
Great for couples or families who need a private life and customized living space. Some people prefer to not meet strangers while enjoying their time.
Renting a villa means you get exclusive access to private pools, kitchens, and personalized room service, giving you a more tailored experience.
It’s easier to save money by cost-sharing with your group. Since villas are a whole unit, you can split the cost with friends or family, which is a popular choice for tourist groups visiting Bali.
It’s a great escape for introverted souls. If you enjoy a slow-living lifestyle and prefer quiet comfort surrounded by nature, villas blending into countryside, seaside, or rice field views offer a perfect retreat.
The Cons:
Sometimes you have to set up your own internet, pay separate electricity bills, hire cleaners, and fix broken ACs yourself.
If you are traveling alone, you may feel lonely. So, you have to actively seek out networking events.
Comparison Table of Coliving vs. Villa Rentals
So, How to Decide between Coliving vs Renting a Villa in Bali?
Now it depends entirely on possibilities that fit how you live right now. Be it on your budget, your social preferences, or how long you intend to stay. It boils down to privacy vs price + coworking space + community.
Choose a Villa
When budget or coworking space isn't an issue. Or if you're more concerned about privacy, meaningful time with family or group, and need valuable amenities like a private pool, renting a villa is a better choice.
Choose Coliving
If you are a digital nomad in Bali looking to connect with an international community-based network, prioritize reliable Wi-Fi for your remote work, and want a stress-free setup, coliving is your best option. It offers less privacy, but everything's bundled and there's a social circle waiting when you land.
That is exactly where Sokkool comes in. Located in the heart of Canggu, our beautifully designed coliving space handles everything for you.
Your private room features unlimited fast Wi-Fi, a smart TV, AC, and premium soundproofing (so you’re guaranteed a peaceful night's sleep). Better yet, you get complimentary 24/7 access to our professional coworking space just steps from your door.
At Sokkool, you can stay productive during the day and effortlessly transition into vacation mode. Watch the sunset from our rooftop terrace, swim in the pool, join a yoga class, work out in our fully equipped gym, or simply enjoy a coffee at our café.
Ready to elevate your experience in Bali? Enjoy 5-15% off for long stays. Book your room at Sokkool now!