As thousands of urban professionals choose to relocate overseas, spectacular residences and preferential visas provide a unique opportunity to start a sustainable new life in paradise
The myriad challenges of recent years have motivated many urban professionals to leave Hong Kong and start a new life and career abroad. Following almost six decades of continuous growth, the population of “Asia’s World City” fell by 116,000 residents in 2020 and 2021, and the exodus is expected to continue in 20221. But while many Hongkongers are being attracted to the West, one exotic Asian destination has the potential to entice a new generation of digital nomads.
Lombok, the idyllic Indonesian island, is rolling out the welcome mat for expats. With its lush green interiors, blissful beaches, sparkling seas and pure air, it is no surprise that many city dwellers would be tempted to leave their compact apartments for a spacious and luxurious pool villa in Lombok. Just a few years ago, this kind of relocation would have seemed impossible. But in the post-pandemic era, with mindsets changing and technology advancing, this vision is becoming a reality for many forward- thinking executives and entrepreneurs.
To make Lombok even more alluring, the Indonesian government recently announced a new five-year, tax-free visa2, which has already been nicknamed the “digital nomad visa” and is expected to be popular among young, footloose global citizens. Alternatively, another innovative visa scheme has been created for second home owners3, including retirees, who are attracted by the wonders of Indonesia.
The Borealis pool villa offers the ultimate blend of contemporary design and chic interiors for today’s digital nomads
Invest Islands, Lombok’s leading real estate investment company, is now inviting professionals to live, work and unwind in their own pool villa or residence, surrounded by nature and supported by international amenities and the latest technology. With a choice of high-end, eco-friendly projects in south Lombok, including branded five-star resorts and bespoke residences, all within 30 minutes’ drive of Lombok International Airport, Invest Islands can help Hongkongers realise their dreams of a fresh start, away from the city.
Nestled at Torok Bay on the island’s south coast, Gran Meliá Lombok is a unique luxury retreat that features 110 pool villas, including beachfront duplexes and one-to three-bedroom hillside sanctuaries, crafted in a variety of dramatic architectural styles. Each villa is a masterpiece of high-style, low-impact design that blends high-spec interiors, panoramic windows, pool decks and uninterrupted hillside or ocean views. Now on sale and due to open in 2025, this spectacular project has already been named as the “Best Hospitality Development” at the Asia Pacific Property Awards.
For those seeking a complete physical and spiritual reset, Mandala Eco-Village is a heavenly hilltop estate that merges sustainability and modernity. Set on a hilltop, surrounded by rice paddies and with panoramic views of Mount Rinjani and the ocean, this eco-sensitive community features 88 residential units, leisure facilities, shops, an international school and various permaculture projects to promote healthy, considerate lifestyles. With clean energy solutions and cultural integrity, Mandala is helping to build a better future for its residents, the local population and the planet.
For a truly tailor-made investment experience, Invest Islands lets owners pick their perfect plot of land and work with leading architects and designers to craft a heavenly new home that meets their own high standards and bespoke requirements, with options for a wide range of budgets.
The interiors of the Inspiral villa at Gran Melia Lombok are perfectly crafted for luxurious family living
