From Tragedy to Triumph: A Solo Mother’s Inspiring Journey to a Digital Nomad Lifestyle in Bali

A mother of two, Kate Marillat, has made a big move after the sudden loss of her husband. In May 2020, Nigel died from a heart attack, leaving Kate to raise their sons, Kieran and Seb, on her own. This life-changing event pushed Kate to pursue a dream she had long set aside—becoming a digital nomad.

Kate, 44, once worked in Paris and always wanted to travel the world while working remotely. But life in Peacehaven, East Sussex, kept her grounded. After her husband’s passing, she decided it was time to turn her dreams into reality. In September, she relocated with her sons to Sanur, Bali, where she and Nigel had spent their honeymoon in 2010.

Now living in a three-bedroom villa with a pool, the family enjoys daily adventures filled with surfing and snorkeling. Kate notes the lower cost of living makes it easier for her to support her sons and treat them to private education.

Initially, Kate felt as if she was living in a fog. Losing Nigel was incredibly difficult; she transitioned from being a wife to a widow and then to a single parent overnight. She faced the hard question, “Who am I now?” To regain her footing, she leaned on her experience as an emotional resilience coach. Using techniques like Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) tapping, she found ways to cope with her grief and focus on her well-being.

After a year of adjusting in Saltdean, she realized she needed a fresh start. Kate wanted a different environment that would allow her and her sons to heal. Moving to Bali provided that opportunity and has been instrumental in helping them thrive.

Although Bali has its challenges, Kate describes the experience as “wonderful,” even if at times it feels lonely. She finds comfort in the routines they’ve built and acknowledges that her financial situation has improved. A recent report from bunq’s Global Living Report shows that 28% of digital nomads report saving more money, and 24% feel more secure financially. This rings true for Kate, who appreciates the affordable living that lets her devote more time to her sons.

In Bali, everyday life is filled with conveniences that make her routine easier. For just about £5 a week, she can have laundry services and meal costs are significantly lower than in the UK. This has allowed her to focus on completing her upcoming novel and growing her online business, all while being more present for her boys.

Looking to the future, Kate hopes to explore more of the world as her children grow. She encourages others to step outside their comfort zones, sharing how this move has brought her family closer together.

“I’ve got more energy, I’m feeling more grateful and at peace,” Kate reflects. This new chapter has helped her rediscover herself and prepare for whatever comes next.



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