What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Indonesia. They wrote...
"Due to the economic status of most nationals, they seem satisfied with "getting by". For example, if our a/c isn't working, the repairman will come and repair the problem using a "bandage" approach rather than repairing the problem. Of course, they make more money if they must come back more than once :) Also, due to the poverty, lack of transportation, and room to store items, my household help doesn't understand the concept of buying in bulk so you don't need to go shopping on a daily basis. Other than that, I think my biggest challenge is the abundant "wildlife" that seems to creep into the house, climb on the roof or cross my patio from time to time," explained one expat living in Duri/Simpang Padong, Riau, Sumatra, Indonesia.
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"For me, I found corruption a challenge. Police in Indonesia actually buy their jobs, and because the jobs pay very little, the only way they can earn enough money to live is thru bribery," said another expat in Indonesia.
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Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Indonesia?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Indonesia?
- Will I be able to find a job in Indonesia?
- What is life like in Indonesia?
- What do expats in Indonesia appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Indonesia?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Indonesia accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Indonesia like?
- What are healthcare services like in Indonesia?
- What are medical services in Indonesia like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Indonesia?
- What are emergency services like in Indonesia?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Indonesia?
- How are local medical facilities in Indonesia?
- As a foreigner living in Indonesia, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in Indonesia, newcomers to Indonesia would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.