Retire in Indonesia

"Retiring in Indonesia and its surrounding areas offers retirees a wide range of activities to enjoy. Expats can find a vibrant and active community in the bigger cities like Jakarta, Bali and Batam, with a wide range of established facilities and amenities catered for them. Cultural attractions are plentiful in these areas, with traditional dance performances, ancient temples and ruins, and city tours designed for the mature traveler. Recreation can be found on the beaches, rivers, lakes and mangrove forests, or in one of the many national parks or wildlife reserves. Nightlife varies greatly, ranging from quiet café-bars to lively nightclubs found in major cities. All in all, Indonesia and its surroundings offer something for everyone, at any age," commented one retiree living in Indonesia.

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Indonesia is learning the language of the country. While most Indonesians are able to understand and speak some English, being able to communicate in Bahasa Indonesia will give retirees greater access to local resources and opportunities. Additionally, understanding local customs and etiquette will be important for retirees who wish to get the most out of their retirement. Adjusting to the climate can also be difficult, as Indonesia's climate is notoriously hot and humid. Finally, navigating the Indonesian healthcare system, including the cost and availability of medical care, can be challenging, as it is very different from the healthcare options retirees may be used to in their home countries," said one retiree in living in Indonesia.

"One of the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Indonesia is the opportunity to explore a new culture and enjoy the nation's abundance of natural beauty. Experiencing the country's many festivals, such as the elephant race in Yogyakarta and the unique architecture of Borobudur Temple, is an exhilarating adventure. The friendly and welcoming atmosphere of the local people adds to the culture that one can appreciate. With access to good healthcare and many attractive recreational activities such as diving, scuba diving, and kayaking, a retired person can enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle in Indonesia. In addition, living in a tropical climate with an abundance of beaches and picturesque landscapes can create a wonderful and peaceful atmosphere," explained a retiree in Indonesia.

"Healthcare services in Indonesia vary widely due to the country's large size and differing levels of development. Hospital and clinic care, both private and public, are available to citizens and foreign visitors. Primary health care is provided through community health centers and on a fee-for-service basis. Prescription medicines are available in pharmacies or through home visits. Healthcare personnel receive regular training and the government provides some financial subsidies for the public health system. The government also encourages public-private partnerships in order to provide more access to medical care," said a person in Indonesia.

"I've had medical experiences in Bali and I can tell you that the doctors are highly unqualified, overworked and lacking in compassion. Medical care for expats has also become very expensive and it's substandard. I would not consider retiring to Bali or Indonesia if I had any health issues," remarked one retiree in Indonesia.

"Travel, Java Lava mt hiking club, BIS PTA, Cub scouts (either British First Kemang or American scouts) and the various artist groups," remarked one retiree in Jakarta.

"Activities - Golf, road trip, Bazaars, Clubs - AWA, BEA, BWA, AWC, PWA (also, huge community of Latinos) and lots more. Whatever nationality they are, they will surely find their own country having their own organizations," said a retiree who moved to Jakarta, Indonesia.

"Expats in Indonesia often join local clubs and activities such as diving, surfing, angling, golfing, running, painting, and photography. Additionally, many activities in Indonesia are organised by churches, volunteer groups, and international organisations as a way for expats to meet and interact with one another. Other ways for expats to meet people in Indonesia include attending local events, festivals, and meet-up groups, joining language classes, visiting coffee houses and libraries, and exploring local neighbourhoods," said one retiree in Indonesia.

"The local's lives revolve around work, getting to work and family affairs, photography and facebook but beyond that I can't comment. Expat lives revolve around work and family too of course but the family bit comes and goes. Many seem to let the nanny's take over and participate in a lot of Golf or women's organizations, and football/rugby. For us we travel, throw house parties, and participate in school activities," explained a retiree in Jakarta.

"Since it's a muslim country, they prioritize family and praying accordingly. Also, even though it's not their own holiday (i.e. Chinese New Year), they still would like to celebrate such occassion by not working and staying at home," explained one retiree living in Jakarta.

"Living in Indonesia as an expat or digital nomad can be an incredibly rewarding experience. The country's unique culture, incredible diversity and sublime natural beauty offer incomparable opportunities to experience a different life. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the benefits of a modern infrastructure, relaxed cost of living, and a vibrant social scene with plenty of diverse people from around the world. While renting a property can be expensive, there are many cost-effective accommodation options available. With its plethora of stunning beaches and awe-inspiring jungles, Indonesia provides the perfect source of inspiration for those seeking a creative outlet. English is widely spoken and online is widely available for those needing it for work. Additionally, the government has created an efficient visa process for those wanting to stay for extended periods. Overall, living in Indonesia can be incredibly enjoyable and rewarding," said one member in Indonesia.

"Expats considering retiring in Indonesia should familiarize themselves with the country's unique visa requirements and residence permits. They should also take into account the cost of living, healthcare and other important areas such as availability and quality of education. It is advisable to research the various areas in which one is looking to live and to check for any civil unrest or areas known for high crime rates. Additionally, expats should investigate what cultural customs and habits are observed in Indonesia in order to get a better understanding of the local culture and way of life," commented one retiree living in Indonesia.

"Don't drink tap water. Eat only at restaurants that are recommended and tested by others. Learn the language. Have patience, therefore one can adapt accordingly. Don't expect too much from the people," explained one retiree living in Jakarta.

"In Indonesia, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as beaches, parks, and waterfalls. There are also many cultural attractions, such as temples, museums, and monuments. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and bird watching. For those who prefer indoor activities, there are plenty of shopping malls, movie theaters, and bowling alleys. Additionally, there are many restaurants and cafes that offer a variety of local and international cuisine," remarked one retiree in Indonesia.

"People living in Indonesia typically buy groceries and do other shopping at traditional markets, supermarkets, convenience stores, and online stores. Many people also shop at local mom-and-pop stores, which are often family-run businesses. Additionally, some people may purchase items from street vendors or hawkers," said one person who retired in Indonesia.