An Expat Talks about Living in Jakarta, Indonesia

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Jakarta

How long have you lived there?

6 months (Balikpapan) 7 months (Jakarta)

What activities, clubs and organizations would you recommend to newcomers to help them meet others?

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.

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In terms of religious, racial, economic and cultural diversity, are the people of this city or town diverse? Are they accepting of differences? Describe.

Even though it's a Muslim country, Balikpapan and Jakarta are filled with various nationalities. This is basically because employees of foreign companies live here. And, because many people from Asian countries like Japan, Malaysia, Singapore and Hong Kong take their annual holidays here.

Accepting differences? If it means culture, no but they are strong to letting other culture/countries know that being a Muslim means being one.

In general, what are peoples' priorities in this city? For example, do lives revolve around work, family, socializing, sports, etc.?

Since it's a muslim country, they prioritize family and praying accordingly. Also, even though it's not their own holiday (i.e. Chinese New Year), they still would like to celebrate such occassion by not working and staying at home.

If a friend of yours was thinking of moving to this city or town from far away, what other advice would you give them.

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.