What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Indonesia. They wrote...
"For me, I found corruption a challenge. Police in Indonesia actually buy their jobs, and because the jobs pay very little, the only way they can earn enough money to live is thru bribery," said another expat in Indonesia.
"Expats in Indonesia may find it difficult to adjust to the cultural values that are held in high regard, such as respect for elders, hierarchy and tradition. Additionally, the high level of hospitality among locals can be jarring for those who are not used to such a level of service for guests. Furthermore, the informal social relations can also be challenging for expats to break into, as in Indonesian culture it is expected to cultivate friendly bonds with co-workers and anyone else that one interacts with on a regular basis. Finally, the language barrier can be a major challenge for those who are not fluent in the local lingo," wrote a member who made the move to Indonesia.
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Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Indonesia?
- How do I meet people in Indonesia?
- What is life like in Indonesia?
- Is there a lot of crime in Indonesia?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Indonesia accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Indonesia like?
- Is the cost of living in Indonesia high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Indonesia?
- What are healthcare services like in Indonesia?
- Is the cost of living in Indonesia high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Indonesia?
- What is the weather like in Indonesia?
- Are there good restaurants in Indonesia?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Indonesia?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Indonesia?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Indonesia?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Indonesia?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Indonesia?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in Indonesia, newcomers to Indonesia would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
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.
