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Lunch at the Ragunan Zoo in Jakarta, Indonesia

Retire in Indonesia

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Mar 07, 2024

Summary: Retirees are often attracted to Indonesia for its diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities. Indonesia is also known for its friendly people and low cost of living, making it an attractive destination for retirees. The weather in Indonesia is generally warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-90s Fahrenheit throughout the year.

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What is it like to retire in Indonesia?

"Retiring in Indonesia and its surrounding areas offers retirees a wide range of activities to enjoy. Expats can find a vibrant and active community in the bigger cities like Jakarta, Bali and Batam, with a wide range of established facilities and amenities catered for them. Cultural attractions are plentiful in these areas, with traditional dance performances, ancient temples and ruins, and city tours designed for the mature traveler. Recreation can be found on the beaches, rivers, lakes and mangrove forests, or in one of the many national parks or wildlife reserves. Nightlife varies greatly, ranging from quiet café-bars to lively nightclubs found in major cities. All in all, Indonesia and its surroundings offer something for everyone, at any age," explained one retiree living in Indonesia.

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What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Indonesia?

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Indonesia is learning the language of the country. While most Indonesians are able to understand and speak some English, being able to communicate in Bahasa Indonesia will give retirees greater access to local resources and opportunities. Additionally, understanding local customs and etiquette will be important for retirees who wish to get the most out of their retirement. Adjusting to the climate can also be difficult, as Indonesia's climate is notoriously hot and humid. Finally, navigating the Indonesian healthcare system, including the cost and availability of medical care, can be challenging, as it is very different from the healthcare options retirees may be used to in their home countries," said one retiree in Indonesia.

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What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Indonesia?

"One of the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Indonesia is the opportunity to explore a new culture and enjoy the nation's abundance of natural beauty. Experiencing the country's many festivals, such as the elephant race in Yogyakarta and the unique architecture of Borobudur Temple, is an exhilarating adventure. The friendly and welcoming atmosphere of the local people adds to the culture that one can appreciate. With access to good healthcare and many attractive recreational activities such as diving, scuba diving, and kayaking, a retired person can enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling lifestyle in Indonesia. In addition, living in a tropical climate with an abundance of beaches and picturesque landscapes can create a wonderful and peaceful atmosphere," remarked one retiree in Indonesia.

What are healthcare services like in Indonesia?

We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Indonesia. They wrote:

"Healthcare services in Indonesia vary widely due to the country's large size and differing levels of development. Hospital and clinic care, both private and public, are available to citizens and foreign visitors. Primary health care is provided through community health centers and on a fee-for-service basis. Prescription medicines are available in pharmacies or through home visits. Healthcare personnel receive regular training and the government provides some financial subsidies for the public health system. The government also encourages public-private partnerships in order to provide more access to medical care," explained a retiree in Indonesia.

"I've had medical experiences in Bali and I can tell you that the doctors are highly unqualified, overworked and lacking in compassion. Medical care for expats has also become very expensive and it's substandard. I would not consider retiring to Bali or Indonesia if I had any health issues," explained one retiree living in Indonesia.

How do I meet people in Indonesia?

When we asked people living in Indonesia about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Travel, Java Lava mt hiking club, BIS PTA, Cub scouts (either British First Kemang or American scouts) and the various artist groups," explained one retiree living in Jakarta.

"Activities - Golf, road trip, Bazaars, Clubs - AWA, BEA, BWA, AWC, PWA (also, huge community of Latinos) and lots more. Whatever nationality they are, they will surely find their own country having their own organizations," said one retiree in living in Jakarta, Indonesia.

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What is life like in Indonesia?

When we asked people living in Indonesia what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Living in Indonesia as an expat or digital nomad can be an incredibly rewarding experience. The country's unique culture, incredible diversity and sublime natural beauty offer incomparable opportunities to experience a different life. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the benefits of a modern infrastructure, relaxed cost of living, and a vibrant social scene with plenty of diverse people from around the world. While renting a property can be expensive, there are many cost-effective accommodation options available. With its plethora of stunning beaches and awe-inspiring jungles, Indonesia provides the perfect source of inspiration for those seeking a creative outlet. English is widely spoken and online is widely available for those needing it for work. Additionally, the government has created an efficient visa process for those wanting to stay for extended periods. Overall, living in Indonesia can be incredibly enjoyable and rewarding," explained a retiree in Indonesia.

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What do I need to know before retiring in Indonesia?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Indonesia, they said:

"Don't worry too much. It's pretty easy life here but will require patience a plenty. Traffic is horrible! But I get lots of reading done in my Mitsurbishi Grandis. Good staff are very important and should be rewarded with your trust and better than average pay if you find good ones. We love ours. Finally, as usual, a little bit of the local language goes a long long ways. Vocabulary is the key here b/c the rest of the language is easy," remarked one retiree in Jakarta.

"Don't drink tap water. Eat only at restaurants that are recommended and tested by others. Learn the language. Have patience, therefore one can adapt accordingly. Don't expect too much from the people," said a retiree who moved to Jakarta, Indonesia.

"Expats considering retiring in Indonesia should familiarize themselves with the country's unique visa requirements and residence permits. They should also take into account the cost of living, healthcare and other important areas such as availability and quality of education. It is advisable to research the various areas in which one is looking to live and to check for any civil unrest or areas known for high crime rates. Additionally, expats should investigate what cultural customs and habits are observed in Indonesia in order to get a better understanding of the local culture and way of life," said one retiree in Indonesia.

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What type of recreational activities are there in Indonesia?

"In Indonesia, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as beaches, parks, and waterfalls. There are also many cultural attractions, such as temples, museums, and monuments. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and bird watching. For those who prefer indoor activities, there are plenty of shopping malls, movie theaters, and bowling alleys. Additionally, there are many restaurants and cafes that offer a variety of local and international cuisine," said one retiree in living in Indonesia.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Indonesia?

"People living in Indonesia typically buy groceries and do other shopping at traditional markets, supermarkets, convenience stores, and online stores. Many people also shop at local mom-and-pop stores, which are often family-run businesses. Additionally, some people may purchase items from street vendors or hawkers," explained one retiree living in Indonesia.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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Lunch at the Ragunan Zoo in Jakarta, Indonesia

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Contribute to Indonesia Network Contribute
Help others in Indonesia by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Indonesia.

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