Indonesia
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," commented one expat who made the move to 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," remarked another expat in Indonesia.
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to Indonesia?
- How do I find a place to live in Indonesia?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Indonesia?
- What is the average cost of housing in Indonesia?
- Should I buy or rent a home in Indonesia?
- What should I pack when moving to Indonesia?
- What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Indonesia?
- Why do people move to Indonesia?
- What are healthcare services like in Indonesia?
- What are medical services in Indonesia like?
- What are typical rents in Indonesia?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
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.
