The allure of Bali has long captivated Aussie travelers since the 1960s and continues to do so, with a record 1.2 million Australian visitors and holidaymakers flocking to the Indonesian island in 2023. For some, like chef and restaurateur Ben Cross, Bali is more than just a vacation spot or a digital nomad destination – it’s home.
In 2007, while on his way to open a restaurant in Barcelona, Mr. Cross made a stopover in Bali and instantly fell in love with the island’s unique culture. The kindness and warmth of the Balinese people left a lasting impression on him, prompting him to stay and pursue a career as a chef on the island.
Fast forward to 2018, and Cross, along with his business partners, launched Mason, a Mediterranean-themed restaurant in the bustling beachside community of Canggu. The restaurant quickly gained popularity, offering a more sophisticated dining experience in an area known for its surf and breakfast culture.
Similarly, Australian eyewear founders Mitch and Emma Burgess found success in Bali when they expanded their business to the hipster haven of Canggu. The couple opened their flagship store in 2019 and have since expanded to two more locations in Uluwatu and Seminyak, citing the booming business in Bali compared to Australia.
Olympic gold medalist Michael Klim also found a new venture in Bali, introducing his successful swimming school business, Klim Swim, to the island in 2022. The progressive energy of Bali drew him in, leading to the establishment of swim schools in two Bali venues and a satellite location in Jakarta.
Despite the challenges of living and working in Bali, including shipping issues and high costs, many Aussies find the relaxed island lifestyle and community collaboration to be the true drawcard of their experience. As Michael Klim puts it, Bali still holds plenty of magic for those who choose to call it home.