How to develop a social circle in Bali
Bali, a real melting pot!
Bali is a truly multicultural place, making it very simple for expatriates and locals to make friends. With a slower pace of life than in the West, the laid-back atmosphere and the smiling faces of the locals, it is particularly easy for people to get acquainted with each other. The people from Bali are, by nature, very friendly and welcoming to foreigners. Since being accustomed to the constant flow of foreigners, they are open-minded people.
To help you better blend into the Balinese lifestyle, it is important to understand the local customs and culture. Start by smiling and using friendly body language when you meet a Balinese local. And whenever possible, exchange a few words of greeting in Indonesian to start a conversation. Keep in mind that most Balinese have a basic grasp of English, which means that you should have no trouble communicating with them.
Shyness is a local characteristic. So be humorous and force yourself to make the first move. This will undoubtedly earn you an invitation to join a Balinese family for a meal or a traditional family ceremony.
Online networking in Bali
If you don't know where to start and don't want to engage in a conversation with a total stranger, turn to social networks such as Facebook and/or Instagram. Join online groups and communities based on your interests, hobbies or your place of residence in Indonesia.
In Bali, virtual regional groups are very active on social media. So even if you live in Canggu, Sanur, Uluwatu, Jimbaran, etc., you will still be able to keep in touch with the locals. These groups often post public events, parties, and gatherings and organize networking events across Bali.
Event websites
Meetup.com and Eventbrite are other useful websites that will help you keep up with events in your area. They publish and advertise various social events, workshops, gatherings or classes on a variety of topics like free yoga courses, dance, poetry or programming classes, etc.
Whichever is your preferred channel, try to be positively engaging. Try to demonstrate a relaxed body language and keep yourself open to anyone within your new social context.
Volunteering in Bali
Volunteering is another way to strengthen your position in your new social circle. Thanks to the presence of many local charities, charity events and visits to remote areas of the island are regularly organized. That can indeed be the perfect setting to extend your friends'; list in Bali.
For instance, Komunitas Kanaditya is part of this network and conducts various activities, including cooking classes for prison inmates, reading and handicraft classes for underprivileged children in rural areas, etc. Likewise, the Bali Life Association works to improve the well-being of disadvantaged Balinese children. Both organizations are open to volunteers. To learn more about their news, visit their websites or social networks.
Sports activities in Bali
Your favorite hobby or leisure activity can be a powerful social medium in Bali! Whether it's sports, literature or travel, you will inevitably encounter associations and clubs that you can join on the island. If you like to do yoga, Bali has a plethora of yoga centers. If you're more into soccer, you will be happy to know that clubs like Klub Jimbaran in Jimbaran bring together players from all walks of life on futsal fields. If you are more of a surfer, then you head out to Canggu, Uluwatu or Bingin beach, among others.
Socializing at work in Bali
The workplace can also be an excellent social binder. As mentioned in the article about work culture in Bali, the Balinese people do not necessarily draw a clear line between private and professional life. In fact, it is not uncommon to meet with colleagues outside of office hours for dinner or to go to the movies. You just need to be friendly and open to such invitations!
As far as dating in Bali or elsewhere in Indonesia is concerned, you should rely on the numerous specialized apps like Tinder, Ok Cupid, Badoo or Tantan.
