The allure of Amed is its tranquility. Far removed from the traffic of the south, it offers a peaceful escape in East Bali. However, for parents, this remoteness brings a sobering reality: you are a long way from major medical help.
The closest international-standard hospital (BIMC or Siloam in Denpasar) is roughly a 2.5 to 3-hour drive away. While there are local clinics in Amed for minor issues, serious emergencies require transport.
This geographical fact makes vetting your childcare provider absolutely critical. In Seminyak, help is minutes away; in Amed, your nanny is the first line of defense. Here is a step-by-step guide to ensuring you hire a trustworthy, capable caregiver for your East Bali trip.
1. The Non-Negotiable: Medical Certification
When booking a nanny in a remote area, you cannot compromise on medical training. You need proof, not just verbal assurance.
- Ask for Certificates: Before confirming a booking, request digital copies of their current CPR (Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation) and First Aid certificates. Ensure they are not expired.
- Relevance: Ideally, the training should be specifically for Infants and Children, not just general adult first aid.
- The “Scenario Test”: During a pre-booking video call, ask a situational question: “If my toddler tripped by the pool and hit their head hard, what are the exact steps you would take?” Their answer will reveal their confidence and training level.
2. The Amed Reality: Swimming Ability
Amed is defined by water—the ocean and villa pools. Many accommodations in Amed feature stunning infinity pools that often lack safety fences.
- Define “Swimming”: Don’t just ask, “Can you swim?” Many locals can paddle. You need to ask: “Are you confident you could jump into deep water to pull my 3-year-old out if they fell in?”
- Beach Safety: If you plan on beach days, ensure the nanny understands the local conditions. Amed’s beaches can be rocky, and while currents are generally mild in the bays, supervision near the water’s edge is vital.
3. The Agency Advantage vs. Local Hires
In Amed, you will often be offered babysitting services by friendly locals—perhaps staff at your homestay or a neighbor in the village. While usually well-meaning and kind, these individuals rarely have formal vetting.
Why Professional Agencies are Safer for East Bali: Although they cost more due to travel fees from the south, reputable Bali nanny agencies perform the vetting for you. They ensure:
- Background Checks: Police checks and identity verification have been completed.
- Reference Checks: They have called previous employers (often Western families) to verify reliability.
- English Standard: They ensure the nanny can understand critical instructions about allergies or medication.
Pro Tip: If you hire through an agency, ask specifically if the nanny has experience working in remote locations or live-in situations.
4. The Interview Checklist (Before You Arrive)
Request a 10-minute WhatsApp video call before you finalize the booking. This isn’t just to see their face; it’s to check communication standards.
Critical Questions to Ask:
- “Have you cared for children of [your child’s age] before?”
- “Do you have any allergies yourself (e.g., to pets or certain foods)?”
- “Are you comfortable with the 3-hour drive to get to Amed?” (If they seem hesitant about the travel, they might cancel last minute).
- “How do you handle a child who is having a tantrum because they miss their parents?” (Look for answers involving distraction and empathy, not discipline).
Hiring a nanny in Amed should buy you peace of mind, not added anxiety. By prioritizing medical certification, confirming swimming ability, and using reputable channels for booking, you can enjoy the incredible diving and sunsets of East Bali knowing your children are in safe, capable hands.