The Island of the Gods may soon welcome a second international gateway. Under President Prabowo Subianto’s upcoming administration, Bali is reportedly set to move forward with long-discussed plans to build a second airport—this time in the north of the island, far from the tourism-heavy south that’s long been the focal point of development.As reported by Indonesia Expat (2024), this infrastructure...
Living in Jakarta as an expat is full of adventure, but it’s not without its challenges. In this Instagram Reel, several expats are asked a blunt but honest question:“What’s your biggest complaint about living in Jakarta?”🎥 Watch the video here: instagram.com/reel/DITO2bOujWH🚦 If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in Jakarta traffic wondering “why?”, just know—you’re not...
Indonesia is once again in the global spotlight—this time for its fast-growing tourism and investment potential. In early April 2025, the UN Tourism Organization released the Tourism Investment Guide for Indonesia, outlining strategic opportunities across the country’s diverse tourism destinations, including Bali, Labuan Bajo, and Mandalika.The guide emphasizes Indonesia’s attractiveness for...
Expats Share Their Favorite Indonesian Words — And the Answers Are So RelatableIn a charming and humorous Instagram Reel, a group of expats living in Indonesia are asked a simple but revealing question: “What’s your favorite Indonesian word?” The answers range from funny and heartfelt to downright relatable for anyone who has spent time in the country.From the iconic “mantap” (which loosely...
For expatriates planning to live, work, or invest in Indonesia, understanding how the key government institutions operate is more than just paperwork—it’s essential to a smooth and successful transition.A recent article by Indonesia Expat highlights the three most important government bodies every foreigner in Indonesia should be familiar with: BKPM (Investment Coordinating Board), Immigration, and the...
Indonesia has officially launched its Golden Visa program—a strategic move to attract international talent, investors, and high-net-worth individuals. This new visa pathway allows eligible foreigners to reside in Indonesia for five to ten years, offering a more stable and long-term alternative to existing short-term visas or KITAS permits.As Southeast Asia’s largest economy and a hub for regional...
A small change can make a big difference—especially for expatriates in Indonesia navigating airport procedures. In an exciting move, Soekarno-Hatta International Airport has officially opened its autogate system to ITAP and ITAS holders, streamlining immigration checks for thousands of long-term residents.This update marks a significant shift in Indonesia’s efforts to improve convenience for foreign...
ome places age, others evolve—and a few manage to do both effortlessly. In South Jakarta, Blok M is proving it still has a place in the city’s weekend spotlight. Once known for its older shopping centers and functional transit hubs, the area has undergone a quiet revival, turning into one of the capital’s most unexpectedly vibrant destinations for culture, food, and community. Source : Detik Finance...
According to the latest report from Statistics Indonesia (BPS), Jakarta saw a notable dip in public transportation usage in February 2025. While this may seem like a short-term fluctuation, it offers an interesting glimpse into urban mobility patterns—especially for expatriates navigating life in the capital city.As reported by The Jakarta Post,“In February, TransJakarta served 23.47 million...
In a city defined by its contrasts—skyscrapers beside kampungs, trendy cafés near ancient markets—Istiqlal Mosque stands as a powerful symbol of Indonesia’s spirit: pluralistic, resilient, and profoundly unified.Located in Central Jakarta, directly across from the Jakarta Cathedral, the mosque isn’t just the largest in Southeast Asia—it’s a testament to the nation’s founding values. For...