The beautiful archipelago of Indonesia is a combination of rich culture, great traditions, amazing beaches, vast forests, dangerous volcanoes, hundreds of languages, abundant natural resources and a vibrant wildlife. Placed between Indian and Pacific oceans, Indonesia stands as fourth most populous country in the world with majority of them being Muslims.
This rich environment and nature compatibility is putting Indonesia in the list of best places to live on earth. Many foreign nationals are now shifting to Indonesia to live the rest of their lives in a beautiful and peaceful environment. Anyhow, like any place on earth, Indonesia has its own pros and cons from the point of view of an expatriate.
They are Pros
- Travel
Being a combination of an approximate 17000 plus Islands, Indonesia is a great to travel with in. Every Island of Indonesia gives you a different experience and for people who want to go on surfing, it is a paradise. Visiting countries like Malaysia, Vietnam and Philippines is quite comfortable when you are in Indonesia. Moreover, sites like Sangiran early man, Ujung Kulon national park and Borobudur temple compounds, which form a part UNESCO heritage sites add up to your list of travel destinations. - Standard of Living
Indonesia is a very affordable country for expats to live in. Though accommodation and education of children are a bit expensive, household services and regular commodities are easy and affordable. Many expats prefer to live in Jakarta, the capital city of Indonesia, which is a good place to live comparatively. - Language
Bahasa Indonesia, the national language of Indonesia is very easy to learn. Since it is scripted in English alphabets, it won't be much tougher to grasp some word before you visit Indonesia. - Food
Indonesian cuisines is one of the best in the world. You can find a lot of varieties in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian categories. Sea food is very prominent here and foods like Satay, Beef Rendang and Sambal are very popular in and around the country. - Night Life
Indonesia is not going to sleep at any time in the night. Excluding rural parts, cities like Jakarta are completely alive every night. Dance, which is an essential part of Indonesian culture, is performed every night at some specific places. Whereas the night clubs can be seen embracing the western culture.
They Are Cons
- Healthcare
Though many minor health problems can be sorted in the country itself. It may sometimes become mandatory for you to visit neighboring countries for better healthcare when you are facing major health problems. Sanitation is of very low standards, so contagious diseases are rampant. It is important for you to choose better places and better food to avoid any health risks.
People are Conservative
Since Muslims are the majority across the country with 87 %, you may experience hatred. Though everyone in the country is not conservative, there are instances of extremists bombing the places packed with western tourists. - Corruption
It may become very tough for you to start a business without paying a corrupt government official. Corruption has become very casual across the nation. Despite government trials to curb the corruption, it can be seen everywhere. You can hope for the best in future. - Imported Products
You are going to pay multiplied rates if you are craving for something from your native country. It is not advisable, the best alternative is to find friends who are visiting Indonesia from your native country. Or else, try the substitutes you find in Indonesia. - Traffic
With huge population and narrow roads, you are going to experience constant traffic on roads. Government is putting all its efforts to widen the roads, you may see good roads and free flow of traffic in near future.
