How to adapt to the expat challenges of everyday life in Indonesia

Cheryl Moderator

Member since 15 October 2018

CherylModerator19 February 2025 04:39:51

13226

Hello everyone,

Adapting to everyday life as an expat in Indonesia can be both exciting and overwhelming: different habits, systems, and sometimes even unexpected surprises! Simple things like paying bills, using public transport, or even greeting neighbors might work differently than what you're used to.

We would like to invite you to share the biggest challenges you face in your daily routine. Here are a few questions to start with:

What aspects of daily life were the most challenging for you at first?

How did you overcome these difficulties?

Did you find any local habits or customs particularly surprising?

What has helped you in feeling more at ease in your new environment?

Any funny or unexpected experiences you would like to share?

Share your experiences, anecdotes and tips to help fellow expats.

Thank you for your contribution.

Cheryl
Expat.com Team

wyngrove60 Serial expat

Member since 08 May 2021

wyngrove60Serial expat19 February 2025 05:05:41

324

I can't say that anything in your list has been a challenge or unexpected. But living in a kind of cluster within the city as we do, I would recommend not making enemies or getting angry with your neighbours, always be polite and friendly, be generous and generally getting along with everyone in your area. Your neighbours will tend to be the same with you. Also don't act as if you are better than the locals or more wealthy or anything like that. Keeping low-profile and fitting in is better.

Fred Indonesia Expert

Member since 02 August 2009

A smile is the universal welcome.
Max Eastman

FredIndonesia Expert19 February 2025 05:08:07

29089

Throw away your watch.

Indonesian time is something Doctor Who would get a headache trying to work out.

'9 am' means the morning, maybe afternoon, or tomorrow if it rains.

Fred Indonesia Expert

Member since 02 August 2009

A smile is the universal welcome.
Max Eastman

FredIndonesia Expert20 February 2025 02:57:48

29089

Ayo makan

It means, come and eat.

People will say that when they eat near people they know. It doesn't mean they intend to share, more it's a cultural thing. They are being polite in an Islamic way.

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daviddomoney Active member

Member since 31 January 2025

daviddomoneyActive member12 April 2025 02:17:05

Having to get things done is tough part. Indonesia is a wonderful place but things don't usually happen quickly I find. My wife is Indonesian and for her to renew her passport took multiple visits to immigration office for example. Traffic can be a nightmare.

However despite these things there is no where like Indonesia it is truly unique. Whilst I may be biased as my wife is Indonesian I have traveled to quite alot of countries but Indonesia is by far my favourite!