Cultural Insight

When people think of Jakarta, the first images that come to mind often involve endless traffic and a dense urban sprawl. But there's a refreshing new way to view the city that defies those expectations—from the top deck of an open-top bus, where Jakarta’s skyline tells a very different story.The Jakarta Tourism Office, in collaboration with TransJakarta, has revived the popular Jakarta Explorer...

For many expats and international visitors in Indonesia, a visit to Borobudur Temple is more than just sightseeing—it’s a journey through centuries of history, culture, and spirituality. Located in Central Java, this 9th-century Mahayana Buddhist monument is one of the most iconic landmarks in Southeast Asia and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.But what lies beyond the grandeur of Borobudur itself? As...

Air pollution in Jakarta has once again made headlines. As of June 2025, air quality in Greater Jakarta—including Bekasi, Depok, and Tangerang—has significantly worsened, raising concerns among residents, health professionals, and urban planners.According to The Jakarta Post (2025), the government has yet to introduce substantial measures to reduce emissions from factories and vehicles—two of the...

In early June 2025, Indonesia’s Ministry of Health issued an official advisory in response to a noticeable surge in COVID-19 cases across several Asian countries, including neighboring nations. Although the situation in Indonesia remains under control, authorities are urging increased public awareness and preventive behavior, especially ahead of travel or public gatherings.As reported by The Jakarta Post...

Jakarta has taken another step toward improving regional mobility with the launch of a new intercity bus route connecting the capital to Bekasi. Announced in May 2025, this route adds to the Transjakarta-operated intercity fleet and aims to ease traffic congestion, enhance public transit access, and improve commuting conditions for daily travelers.As reported by The Jakarta Post (2025), the route is part...

Gold has long been seen as one of the most reliable investment vehicles in times of economic uncertainty. In Indonesia, it’s not just a symbol of wealth—it’s a practical and increasingly accessible asset class for both locals and foreign residents alike.As highlighted in a recent Social Expat article (2024), the appeal of gold in Indonesia continues to grow, especially as more people look for secure,...

Starting May 2025, Indonesia has officially launched full e-passport services across all its immigration offices—an upgrade that simplifies international travel, visa applications, and airport processing for citizens and long-term foreign residents.As reported by Social Expat (2024), the move is part of a broader digitalization push by Indonesia’s Directorate General of Immigration. For global citizens...

Jakarta has just earned a spot on Time Out’s prestigious list of the 50 Best Cities in the World for 2025, joining the ranks of global heavyweights like New York, Tokyo, and Barcelona. For locals, the recognition comes as a welcome nod to the capital’s transformation. For expats and property seekers, it’s another strong reason to consider Jakarta not just as a stopover—but as a vibrant city to...

From remote workers to digital nomads to long-term expats, one factor has quietly become non-negotiable when choosing where to live, work, or travel: Wi-Fi quality. As reported by Indonesia Expat (2024), the availability and reliability of internet access can make or break a travel experience—and the same holds true for international relocations.For many moving to Indonesia—whether to Bali, Jakarta, or...

If you’ve just relocated to Jakarta or Bali, your first morning meal might surprise you. Forget toast and cereal—Indonesia wakes up to something more vibrant. From coconut rice to peanut-sauced vegetables, breakfast here isn’t just fuel. It’s a reflection of the country’s diverse flavors and regional pride.According to Social Expat (2024), traditional Indonesian breakfasts vary widely depending...