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If you're considering traveling to Bali for your Yoga Teacher Training 200YTT, 300YTT or 500YTT, you're in the right place. This post walks you through exactly how I made it happen — from choosing the school and sorting out logistics, to what the training to become a yoga teacher looked like on the ground and how I managed my time there.

Honest advice, practical tips, and insights from someone who’s actually done it. Would I do it again? Absolutely, without hesitation. It’s one of those life-affirming experiences that truly reconnects you with yourself. Funny enough, I only discovered Eat, Pray, Love written by Elizabeth Gilbert after my trip — and I have to admit, it depicts the emotions surprisingly well.

Deciding to Do My Yoga Teacher Training Abroad

Let’s be clear — a local or weekend-style YTT wasn’t for me. Too pricey, too stretched out over time, and not enough far away for me from my routine life. What I wanted was a full, immersive experience — something deeper, more focused, and rooted in the essence of yoga. I was looking for a place where I could truly connect with nature and the energy of my surroundings — somewhere distant, warm, and deeply rooted in spiritual culture. Bali had been on my mind for years, not just as a destination, but as the ideal place to hit reset and fully commit to this new chapter of my life.

Choosing Bali meant stepping away from my regular routine, with time and space to focus on the training and my body’s recovery. If you want a similar environment, it’s a fantastic option.

At that point, I knew I had to make a choice — and I decided to quit my job. I didn’t want to ask for permission to take a so-called extended “holiday.” I wanted to reclaim ownership of my time, without the pressure of a return date hanging over me. I was ready to close a chapter of my life. Yes, I knew I’d eventually come back — but this time, it would be on my terms. And believe me, making that decision brought an immense sense of relief, freedom, and clarity. It felt incredibly good — like I was finally doing the one thing I truly needed to do for myself.

A life change decision. Let me tell you about..

How I Chose My Yoga School in Bali

There are countless yoga schools in Bali, and I spent hours making my sourcing, watching TikTok and YouTube videos to get a real sense of what I was getting myself into before making a choice. Here's how I narrowed it down:

Eventually, I chose Inner Yoga Training — it instantly stood out. I had a call with Georgina, the owner and lead Yin teacher, who kindly took the time to answer all my questions. That conversation truly reassured me and confirmed I had found the right place. Additionally, their program was aligned with Yoga Alliance standards (200 hours), offered a diverse team of teachers, and supported us all the way through.

Azadi Retreat Lodge - Ubud, January 2024

Yoga Philosophy Course - Azadi Retreat Shala, January 2024

💡 Tip: Message alumni on Instagram or Facebook and ask how they felt about the experience. It helped me a lot. I did so with a former teacher, it was also a great help in my search.

Self-Guidance Questions  - How to Know What Yoga Style Fits You

Before choosing a school, ask yourself:

• ➡️What drew me to yoga — physical practice, stress relief, or inner growth?
• ➡️Do I prefer dynamic flows (like Vinyasa) or slow, deep holds (like Yin)?
• ➡️Do I have injuries or need a trauma-informed approach?
• ➡️Am I doing this to become a teacher, or mainly for personal growth? It’s important to clarify your intention — the training is intense, and knowing your “why” will help you stay grounded throughout the journey.
• ➡️Do I want a strict structure or a more heart-centered environment?
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• Welcome Ceremony - Inner Yoga Training - Ubud - Azadi Retreat, January 2024
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• Booking Flights, Visa & Insurance
  

Once I received confirmation from the yoga school for my chosen dates, I was asked to pay a booking deposit — which is standard. Most schools charge between $300 and $500 USD. Personally, I wouldn’t trust any program asking for significantly more. With my spot secured, here’s what I took care of next:

✈️ Flights: I booked a flexible return ticket, just in case I decided to stay longer after the training. I also made sure to arrive in Bali a couple of days early to settle in and adjust to the time zone. On the way, I included a layover in Ho Chi Minh City — it gave me a chance to rest after the long flight and explore a new place before diving into the training.

📄 Visa: As the departure date approached, I applied for the Visa on Arrival (VoA), which allows a 30-day stay and can be extended once for another 30 days. If you're planning to stay longer or want more flexibility. You can find the official visa information and apply through the Indonesian immigration portal here: 👉 https://evisa.imigrasi.go.id/

🩺 Travel Insurance: Travel insurance was a must. I opted for a plan with April International that covered travel disruptions, medical emergencies, and yoga-related activities. As someone who’s lived (and still) in Canada, Ireland, and the UK, I’ve often relied on international insurance providers. They may come at a higher price, but in my experience, they’re absolutely worth it — reliable, comprehensive, and essential for peace of mind.

Bali Island - January 2024

💡 Tip: Keep digital copies of everything in your phone AND printed backups, especially your visa extension instructions.

What I Packed (and What I Should’ve Left Behind)

Of course, I came back with more than I left with — the clothes in Bali are beautiful and affordable! My best advice: pack only the essentials and leave some space in your suitcase. That said, here’s what I actually used on a daily basis during the YTT:

• ▪️Breathable yoga clothes (you’ll sweat — a lot);
• ▪️1–2 pairs of leggings, 4 light tops, 1 long sleeve;
• ▪️Lightweight shawl/sarong (used for temple visits, meditation, or warmth);
• ▪️A notebook + pens for journaling and class notes;
• ▪️Travel-sized laundry soap for hand washing;
• ▪️Good mosquito repellent and sunscreen;
• ▪️Sun cream, natural deodorant, coconut oil, probiotics, essential medicine you may need;
• ▪️Flip-flops, 1 pair of sneakers, 1 nice outfit for weekend outings (and still you can get one in Bali);
• ▪️Reusable water bottle (filtered water is available everywhere).
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🧘‍♀️ Tip: No need to bring a mat unless you’re particular — most schools provide them or you can buy one once there.

Arriving in Ubud: Where I Stayed and First Impressions

My training was based in Ubud — a lush, peaceful haven filled with yoga studios, vegan cafés, and endless rice paddies. But before diving into full Zen mode, I spent a few days in Canggu to acclimate to the heat (and let’s be honest, the smoothie bowl scene). Smart move... until I got my first and only food poisoning of the trip. I stayed at Leafy Home Canggu, and it was a great choice. The staff were incredibly helpful — they arranged an airport pickup for me and even had a scooter delivered straight to the hotel. The room was spotless and beautifully set up, and the food? Absolutely delicious. The location was just right: close enough to explore the action, but far enough to enjoy some peace and quiet. From there, I headed to my yoga school in Ubud with a private driver — the journey took about two hours with the usual Bali traffic.

The yoga school is located north of Ubud, nestled among rice fields about 20 minutes from the city — which turned out to be perfect. Peaceful, quiet, and far from the buzz of town. They even offered the option to arrive a night early at no extra cost. I stayed in a shared bungalow-style room with an ensuite bathroom, fan, and mosquito net. It was simple, surrounded by nature, and exactly what I needed. The only sounds? Birds, wind, and the occasional frog — total bliss.

5.30 am breathtaking view from Azadi Retreat - Ubud, January 2024

Ubud has it all — from smoothie bowls and temples to massage centers, vibrant markets, cozy cafés, and a thriving yoga community. Also, for people with food restrictions (gluten-free or lactose-free) or special diet like vegan, you have unlimited options there, most of restaurants and café will propose you alternatives or even exclusively vegan-based options. And yes, you might just spot a curious monkey or two along the way!

Smoothie Bowl at Zest Café - Ubud

Whether I was taking a well-earned break from yoga training or cozying up with a smoothie bowl to review my notes, Ubud quickly became a playground for my body, mind, and soul. Here are some of the places that truly made my experience unforgettable:

🧘‍♀️ Yoga Spots (Because… more yoga!)

• ➡️ The Yoga Barn  - The ultimate yogi playground — basically Disneyland for yoga lovers. A vibrant mix of classes, workshops, and community energy.
• ➡️ Alchemy Yoga - (next to Zest Café) stunning studio offering drop-in classes, specialty workshops, and even YTT programs. The vibe is calm, intentional, and inspiring.
• ➡️ Heart Space - A cozy studio with a heart-centered touch. I loved the teacher who sang mantras while playing guitar during savasana — I melted into the mat.
• ➡️ Aerial Yoga at Four Seasons  - Pure magic. Practicing aerial yoga in nature with panoramic views, incredible food, and spa-worthy vibes — it’s an experience worth the splurge.
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☕ Cafés I Fell in Love With

• ➡️ Lazy Cats Café - Charming, cozy, and full of character. Great drinks with lactose-free options and the perfect place to chill.
• ➡️ Kafé - Gluten-free, lactose-free, and all-around delicious. A staple for healthy, nourishing meals.
• ➡️ Zest Ubud - My absolute favorite — any time of day. Mornings are peaceful, evenings come alive with live music and soulful energy. A true community spot.
• Live Music at Zest Ubud Café, January 2024
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• ➡️ Sayuri Healing Food - A beautiful place where I spent some magical evenings with my YTT friends — nourishing food, raw desserts, and unforgettable kirtan nights. It became one of our go-to spots for connection and inspiration.
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• Kirtan avec Jeremy Sol @bhaktiblissbali  - Ubud, January 2024
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• ➡️ Mango Café  - (near Inner Yoga Training) A casual, friendly spot where I spent countless hours with fellow students — chatting, studying, or just enjoying a post-class smoothie.
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💆‍♀️ Spa & Shopping in Ubud

You’ll find massage and spa spots around every corner — just make sure to check the reviews.

➡️ One of my personal favorites was Sang Spa for their traditional Balinese massage and scrub. They also offer massage workshops if you're curious to learn!

As for shopping, Ubud is a treasure trove. You’ll find everything from handmade goods to yoga apparel at a fraction of the price you'd pay back home. For quality yoga wear, check out:

• ➡️ Yoga Shanty
• ➡️ Studio K
• ➡️ Miik Yoga

Ubud Streets - January 2024

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• What a Typical Day Looked Like During My Training
  

I have to say, I genuinely enjoyed the daily rhythm at the yoga school. While the structure might feel intense at first for some, it quickly became a source of balance and energy. Like any good habit, the routine brought noticeable benefits — from increased vitality to healthier eating. (And yes, the meals were delicious, all prepared by the school’s amazing in-house chef!).

Vegan Burrito - One of my favorite meal's Chef at Inner Yoga Training Kitchen

Here’s what a typical day looked like during the training:

• ▪️6:30 – 8:30am: We began each morning in silence with meditation and breathwork, followed by a dynamic Vinyasa flow to energize the body and mind.
  • ▪️8:30 – 9:30am: Time to refuel with a nourishing breakfast — think fresh tropical fruit, smoothie bowls, or eggs with local touches get some time to journalli by the swimming pool on transat.
• ▪️9:30am – 12:30pm: Late mornings were dedicated to deep learning: anatomy, yogic philosophy, and teaching methodology.
• ▪️12:30 – 2:30pm: A well-deserved break for lunch and rest — often with time to journal, nap, or enjoy the nature around us.
• ▪️2:30 – 7:00pm: Afternoons varied between posture clinics (where we broke down asanas) and grounding Yin practices.
• ▪️Evening: Evenings were ours to unwind — whether studying, enjoying a massage, stargazing, or simply going to bed early to reset for the next day.
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Yin Yoga Class at Inner Yoga Training Shala - Azadi Retreat, Ubud, January 2024

Some evenings were dedicated to community moments — from sharing circles in the yoga school lounge and study groups, to kirtan gatherings in downtown Ubud or attending local ceremonies steeped in tradition.

Life at the Yoga School: Community, Connection & Shared Growth

One of the most beautiful parts of the experience was the people. You don’t just go to a yoga school to learn — you live, breathe, and grow alongside others who are on their own unique journeys. Some were there to become teachers, others for personal healing, exploration, or simply to hit pause on life. Despite our different stories, something clicked — fast.

We shared early mornings in silence, tough posture clinics, emotional breakthroughs in sharing circles, and plenty of laughter over coconut pancakes. It felt like a bubble outside of time, where everyone showed up raw, open, and willing to support one another.

The teachers played a huge role too. Each one brought their own depth, wisdom, and way of holding space. Learning from their diverse backgrounds — from traditional philosophy to modern anatomy — was a gift in itself.

We weren't just students — we were roommates, study buddies, emotional anchors, and soon enough, friends. Some of these connections continue to grow, even from a distance.

Creating a beautiful and friendly community during my 200YTT - Inner Yoga Training - Ubud, January 2024

If you’re afraid of going alone, trust me — you won’t feel alone for long!

The Teaching Part: Yes, You’ll Actually Teach

About halfway through the training, we began practicing short teaching sequences — sometimes in pairs, small groups, or by guiding a section of the morning practice, like leading Sun Salutations. At first, it was definitely intimidating. But it quickly became empowering. As someone who has experienced public speaking anxiety, this gradual exposure really helped me break through those fears and grow more confident with each session.

We learned:

• 👉How to cue safely and clearly
• 👉How to modify for different bodies
• 👉How to hold space in a trauma-aware way
• 👉How to sequence and time a class effectively

Are you ready to teach ?

By the last week, each of us taught a 60-minute class for our final exam — yes, in front of the group!

Weekend Adventures and Day Trips

Don’t worry — it’s not all yoga and textbooks. Each week includes a well-deserved day off to rest, explore, or simply breathe. And trust me, you won’t be short on options. Your new YTT friends will quickly become your adventure crew — whether it’s a sunrise hike to Mount Batur, a scooter ride to the beach, a spa day, a shopping spree, or just lounging by the pool processing everything you’ve learned.

Dreamland Beach - Bali, January 2024

💡 Don’t overbook weekends. One day of rest will help you absorb and recover.

My Budget and Total Cost Breakdown

Let’s talk budget — it’s not exactly “cheap,” especially depending on the yoga school you choose and the level of comfort you want for your accommodation. But when you consider that you’re getting a life-changing training and a tropical experience in one, the value is undeniable. Most yoga schools offer all-inclusive packages that cover tuition, accommodation, meals, and sometimes even excursions. So while it may feel like a high-ticket investment upfront, it often replaces other travel costs like hotels and dining — making it more than worth it in the big picture.

Here’s roughly what I spent for a 7-weeks trip:

Costs can vary depending on several factors — including your departure location, the yoga school you choose, and any additional expenses along the way. What I’m sharing here is simply a reference point, based on my personal experience and budget. It can be more or less depending on your choices and travel style.

Coming Home: Now What?

After earning my Yoga Alliance certification, I returned home not just with a piece of paper, but with a renewed sense of confidence — and a heart full of dreams to grow my practice and start teaching. I began gradually, but with a lot of excitement to share what I had learned:

• ➡️ I started by teaching friends and family — and yes, they all went through it! It was fun, even for me.
• ➡️ I offered small group classes for free to gain experience and build confidence.
• ➡️ Eventually, I expanded into corporate and online sessions, creating space for others to reconnect.

➡️ Beyond the teaching, I came back with tools that continue to help me manage stress, feel grounded in my body, and support others — especially those navigating physical or emotional healing, just like I once did.

Guiding my friend into Downward Facing Dog

Thank you for your reading.

Sab

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All photographs in this article are the property of Sabrina Gatt and may not be used, copied, or distributed without prior written permission.

If you're feeling the call for change, a career shift, a passion to explore, or simply a new chapter, I’d be happy to support you. I offer coaching and yoga-based guidance for those navigating transitions. 

You can also leave a comment below and share your thoughts, I’d love to hear your take on yoga and its practice! If this article resonated with you, feel free to share it with someone who might find it helpful. 

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