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Relocating to a new city with your family can be a daunting experience, especially when finding a home that meets everyone’s needs. For expats moving to Jakarta, the city offers a variety of family-friendly neighborhoods and housing options, each with its own unique charm and amenities. Here's an in-depth guide to help you settle in and find the perfect home for your family in Jakarta. Kemang...

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,...

As I watched the movers pack our belongings, I still couldn’t quite believe that we had lived in Jakarta for a total of eleven years. Our first posting was from 2009 to 2014, and the second from 2018 until August this year. Our daughter was eleven when we first set foot in this vibrant city, and now she’s a working adult. The country and its people have made a significant impact on our lives, changing...

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,...

In Indonesia, flower boards are a longstanding and deeply rooted tradition used to convey messages of sympathy, congratulations, and well-wishes. These large, colorful floral arrangements are a familiar sight at weddings, funerals, and grand openings of businesses. As an expat living in Indonesia, understanding this unique cultural practice can help you navigate social occasions with grace and...

Indonesian vs. Confrontation: How Cultural Politeness Shapes Workplace Dynamics and Performance Indonesia, with its vibrant cultural diversity and rich history, is a country where social norms and values shape every aspect of life, including how people communicate and behave at work. One of the most striking characteristics of Indonesian culture is the emphasis on politeness, harmony, and the avoidance...

  Cultural Norms in Indonesia: From Hand-Kissing to Family Obligations When I first moved to Indonesia, I was immediately struck by the warmth and hospitality of the people. Over time, I discovered that behind this hospitality lies a deep respect for traditions and customs, some of which are uniquely Indonesian. From the way people greet each other to how they celebrate weddings and birthdays,...

Growing up in Indonesia, I used to think very little of myself. I thought I was too skinny, too tall, had too many pimples, my skin was too dark, and my hair was too black. The list went on and on. I remember back in high school, in the early 2000s, the definition of a beautiful woman by Indonesian standards was having pale or lighter skin, long hair, smooth and soft skin, a pointy nose, and a slim...

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...

Finding Home in Jakarta: A Journey of Cultural Surprises I left Germany in 2009, and for over 15 years now, Jakarta has been my home—a city where everyday life buzzes with a mix of cultures, traditions, and modern influences. Living here in such a vibrant and dynamic environment has been an incredible experience, full of rewards but also challenges. Jakarta’s busy streets, the constant sound of...