Live in jakarta

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,...

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...

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...

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...

Culture is more than just a word; it’s the essence of who we are. For me, culture has always been a central part of my life, deeply woven into my identity through the diverse heritage of my grandparents—Indonesian, Japanese, German, and Swedish. Growing up amidst this rich tapestry of cultures, I experienced firsthand the challenges and beauty that come with navigating different beliefs and...

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...

Sweat and Socialize: Finding Friends in Jakarta through Fitness and Sports Moving to a new city can be a daunting experience, especially when it comes to building a social circle from scratch. However, one of the best ways to meet new people and make friends in Jakarta is through sport and fitness activities. I moved to Jakarta with my family almost a decade ago, and I quickly realized that one of the...