Expat Stories

There’s something special about football that brings people together — and this year’s German Plus Annual Football Tournament 2025, held at the German School Jakarta (Deutsche Schule Jakarta – BSD), perfectly captured that spirit.With laughter echoing across the green field, families cheering from the sidelines, and the smell of coffee and bratwurst filling the air, the event was more than just a...

If you’re planning to stay in Jakarta for a few weeks or months, one of the first questions you’ll face is: where should I stay? With so many options, from sleek serviced apartments in the city centre to cozy Airbnb homes in green neighbourhoods, it can be tricky to decide what’s best for your lifestyle, comfort, and budget.Let’s explore both options in detail so you can make an informed (and...

Save 30% on rent while still enjoying South Jakarta's vibrant café culture. South Jakarta is often seen as one of the most desirable (and expensive) places to live in Jakarta. Known for its leafy streets, modern lifestyle, and proximity to international schools, cafes, and offices, many people assume you need a sky-high budget to enjoy it.But the truth is, you don’t need to spend a fortune to live...

Living Near Singapore, French, and British Schools – PIK, Cipete & BeyondJakarta is a mosaic of cultures, languages, and lifestyles — and no where is that more visible than in its international schools. Each school is more than an academic institution; it’s a heartbeat of community, belonging, and daily rhythm for expat families.After exploring the South Jakarta cluster in Part 1, we now head...

The Expat Family Guide to South & Central JakartaRelocating to Jakarta can be one of the most exciting adventures for any family — but when you have children, the biggest question is always the same: “Where will they go to school, and where should we live?”Jakarta’s international schools are spread across the city, each with its own rhythm, community, and character. Choosing the right school...

Indonesia produces over 18 million tons of waste annually, with most of it ending up in overcrowded landfills. In cities like Jakarta, landfills such as Bantar Gebang are nearing capacity—raising concerns about environmental degradation, methane emissions, and long-term public health.Previous WTE projects were stalled by regulatory uncertainty, land acquisition problems, and unclear revenue structures....

The Capital Strengthens Its Global Identity Through Sports Diplomacy and InfrastructureJakarta continues its evolution on the world stage—this time through sports. In a landmark announcement, FIFA has officially selected Jakarta as its regional hub for Southeast Asia and East Asia, placing the Indonesian capital alongside global centers like Paris, Johannesburg, and Panama City.Source:...

Streamlined Access to Jakarta’s Airport Rail Link for Expats and TravelersTravelers using the Soekarno-Hatta Airport Rail Link now have a faster, easier way to board the train—by simply tapping a Visa contactless card at the turnstile. This service, launched in May 2025, brings Jakarta’s transportation system one step closer to global standards in urban mobility and payment convenience.The...

BMKG explains what’s really happening with Indonesia’s weatherand what expats should expectIf you’ve been in Jakarta or Bali recently and caught yourself wondering, “Isn’t it supposed to be dry season?” you’re not alone. Many residents and newcomers alike have been surprised by frequent rain showers even though the calendar clearly marks it as Indonesia’s dry period.So, what’s going...

Jakarta’s ambitious urban transit development continues with a newly confirmed extension of the city’s Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) system to South Tangerang. Estimated at US$1.25 billion, this expansion marks a critical step in linking Jakarta’s urban core with its fast-growing satellite cities—enhancing connectivity, easing congestion, and unlocking new opportunities for housing and commercial...