Jakarta Guide

Jakarta, a city teeming with vibrant neighborhoods, offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern living. From the lush, old-money enclave of Menteng to the bustling business avenues of Sudirman and Thamrin, each area has its own distinct identity and charm. Whether you’re drawn to the tranquil suburbs of Pondok Indah or the energetic social scene of SCBD, Jakarta has something for every expat...

Indonesia, an archipelago made up of over 17,000 islands and 38 provinces, is a nation that exemplifies the phrase "Unity in Diversity." Home to more than 270 million people, Indonesia boasts a staggering array of ethnic groups, languages, and cultures, each with its own unique customs, traditions, and communication styles. From the bustling streets of Jakarta to the serene rice terraces of Bali,...

Just off the coast of Jakarta lies a paradise that few outsiders know about—Kepulauan Seribu, or Thousand Islands. Despite its proximity to the bustling capital, this archipelago of more than 100 small islands feels like a world apart, offering crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and an escape from the city's fast pace. But there's a common secret that many Indonesians, particularly the elite,...

Jakarta, the sprawling capital city of Indonesia, is famous for many things—its vibrant culture, its delicious street food, its rapid economic growth—but perhaps nothing defines the daily experience of living in Jakarta more than its chaotic traffic. With over 10 million people crammed into the city, and an estimated 30 million more in the Greater Jakarta area (Jabodetabek), the congestion has reached...

Supermarkets for Expats in Jakarta: The Real Scoop When you search online for supermarkets in Jakarta, you’ll likely stumble upon “premium” supermarkets that cater to expats, stocked with imported products and hefty price tags. But let’s be real—you don’t need to pay double the price for basic items like dish soap or rice just because you’re shopping at a fancy store. Locals know where to...

1.Communication is KEY! English-Speaking Agents Are Crucial One of the main challenges when renting in Indonesia is the language barrier. While many Indonesians have some level of English proficiency, language barriers can still pose significant challenges, especially in real estate negotiations. Finding an English-speaking agent who understands your needs is crucial to ensure smooth communication...

Now that you know what to expect and how the market works, what’s next? The question is whether you should hire a local property consultant to assist you or if you have the time to do your own research and explore Indonesia’s real estate market platforms. First and foremost, keep in mind that most real estate platforms here are in Indonesian. So, unless you’re fluent in the language and know...

GOOD NEWS! Jakarta has an oversupply of luxury apartments and condominiums! Having lived in Europe for most of my life, where high-rise apartment buildings are often associated with lower-income housing, I was surprised to find that this is not the case in Jakarta.  I was amazed by the skyscrapers and the high quality of what are considered luxury condos in Jakarta. All luxury apartments come with...

Your bags are packed, your house is empty, and you're waiting for the taxi to take you to the airport. Yep, you're all set for your next adventure, and your next destination is Jakarta, Indonesia! Moving to a new country can be daunting. Moving to a country you’ve never been to, with a population of over 365 million people, and as the largest Muslim country in Southeast Asia, can feel even more...