Why did you decide to move to Indonesia?
I had just spent three months in Croatia and was living in Sicily, about to move to either Greece or Turkey for a three-month visit, when I answered a job ad on the Internet. I was hired and packed up and flew to Indonesia, sight unseen.
How was the moving process?
I travel with two suitcases and a backpack, so the moving was easy. I sold, gave away or threw away pretty much all my belongings before I left the U.S. in June 2010 and moved to Costa Rica.
Did you face some difficulties to adapt to your host country (language, culture, do's and don'ts)?
Adjusting to a new country (if you are living there, not just visiting) is always a challenge. However, in Indonesia I had a support system of Western expats who helped guide me through any needs or problems.
Communication is always a leading challenge, especially since I'm not very good at learning other languages.
Did you have to apply to a specific visa or permit to be able to live and work in Indonesia?
A work permit is required in Indonesia, which was supplied and paid for by my employer. The permit, called a KITAS, is for one year and costs about $1,200, plus the cost of hiring someone to handle the paperwork.
How did you find a job in Indonesia?
On the Internet. I work for a company owned by Western expats, primarily Australians. The company is renovating a residential community and selling or renting out the properties; plus, we have one of Batam's best restaurants. My job is primarily marketing and PR, including publishing a weekly e-newsletter.
What surprised you the most in Indonesia?
One of the reasons I had never considered Indonesia for my travels was because it is primarily a Muslim country and I wasn't sure if I could live in that religious environment. However, I found that this is not a problem and the people here are very friendly. Another surprise was how beautiful the Indonesian women can be.
Could you please share with us something you like about Indonesia and something you don't like?
I like the low cost of living, much of the food and the friendly people. What I don't like is true for most of the low-cost countries I've visited - there are lots of things you get used to having or being able to purchase in the U.S., for example, that you cannot find here. Clothes that fit, for example. Or a good steak. They don't sell clothes here big enough for Westerners.
A common belief about Indonesia which wasn't right:
That living in a Muslim culture is dangerous for Westerners.
What do you miss the most from the US, your home country?
I used to live on the Florida Gulf Coast, within walking distance to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. I really miss that-and the fishing I would do almost every day. I live on an island in Indonesia (Batam) but rarely get to go fishing.
Tell us more on your day-to-day life in Indonesia:
I have a full-time job in marketing and PR, on the island of Batam, Indonesia, which rents short- and long-stay rooms and apartments to mostly Western expats, and also owns one of the island's top-rated restaurants.
Is it easy to meet new people in Indonesia?
Very easy, although most of the people I meet are Westerners living or eating where I work. Meeting the Indonesian locals is also very easy, as they are very friendly, but communication is difficult.
What do you do in your spare time?
Since I've been travelling, I've written and published nine e-books, including six about my travels.I have also documented the experiences and challenges of my adventure in my 2 Bags and a Pack blog, with an emphasis on dealing with the everyday problems and needs associated with living on a budget in another country. I also play a lot of pool and we have a bar district here that is interesting.
Which advice would you give to people wishing to live in Indonesia?
Expect that your Plan A will need to evolve to a Plan B, and a Plan C. And don't expect to get things done quickly; it's much like Latin America and the manana culture.
What did you learn from your several experiences abroad?
Always be prepared to change course quickly, to adjust to changing or new situations. Learn to live with less and don't bring your lifestyle expectations from your home country to your new home. Adjust.
