EXPATS INDONESIA

A few months ago, I could barely say terima kasih without butchering the pronunciation. Now? I’m texting my Indonesian friends in pure Jakarta slang and joking around like I’ve lived there my whole life. The secret? One word: italki . Why italki Worked for Me Unlike apps or YouTube videos that teach textbook phrases, italki connects you directly with real, native-speaking teachers. You can pick your teacher, schedule lessons when it works for you, and even focus on specific goals — like sounding natural in casual conversation. In my case, I didn’t just want to “learn Indonesian.” I wanted to speak like my friends in Jakarta — with all the slang, filler words, and that relaxed gaul (street-style) vibe. So I booked three 30-minute sessions a week with a young teacher from Jakarta who was super chill and down to focus on conversational slang. We covered: Everyday fillers like kayak, gitu, and lah Jakarta slang like gue, lu, abis, banget, and more How to sound casual without be...

If you've ever tried learning a new language through textbooks or apps alone, you've probably hit a frustrating wall. You know the grammar rules. You can order a coffee. Maybe you can even introduce yourself. But when it comes to chatting with real native speakers? Suddenly it feels like they're speaking at 2x speed, throwing in words and slang that you’ve never even seen before. That’s where italki comes in—and it’s a total game-changer. What is italki? In short: italki connects you with real native speakers who tutor you 1-on-1 in the language you’re learning. Whether you’re trying to brush up on your Spanish, master French pronunciation, or dive deep into Japanese culture, you can find teachers who tailor lessons just for you. But here’s what makes italki stand out: you’re not just learning textbook language. You're learning how people actually speak in daily life. Why Learning with Native Speakers Matters Languages aren’t static. They evolve. Slang changes. Cultural...

Jakarta, Indonesia’s bustling capital, is home to numerous world-class shopping centers. However, among the many choices, one mall consistently stands out as a favorite among residents and tourists alike—Pondok Indah Mall (PIM). Located in South Jakarta, this upscale shopping complex has earned its reputation as the city’s premier retail and lifestyle destination. Here’s why PIM is the best mall in Jakarta: 1. Unmatched Shopping Experience Pondok Indah Mall offers an extensive range of high-end and mainstream retail stores, catering to every shopper’s needs. From luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Chanel to popular high-street names like Zara and Uniqlo, PIM ensures a well-rounded shopping experience. Additionally, it houses a variety of local Indonesian designers, making it a perfect spot for discovering unique fashion pieces. 2. Diverse Dining Options Food lovers will find PIM a paradise, with its wide array of dining choices that cater to all tastes. Whether you’re looking...

Foreign nationals planning to extend their stay in Indonesia now have updated guidelines to follow, as the country’s immigration authorities have revised the rules for extending a Visa on Arrival (VoA) and Visit Visa. These new regulations aim to streamline the extension process while ensuring compliance with immigration laws. New Requirements for Visa on Arrival Extensions Under the updated system, foreign nationals seeking an extension for their VoA must undergo a verification process at the local immigration office corresponding to their place of stay in Indonesia. However, applicants can still initiate the extension process online via the official e-Visa portal: evisa.imigrasi.go.id. According to Felucia Sengky Ratna, Director of Immigration Traffic, “The Visa on Arrival extension process remains accessible online for both electronic VoA holders and those who received a VoA sticker upon arrival at an airport immigration counter. Once an application is submitted, the immigration off...

Indonesia’s customs and import duty regulations are essential for both travelers and businesses involved in international trade. Understanding these rules can help ensure smooth transactions and compliance with local laws. This guide provides insights into customs duties, excise tariffs, and recent regulatory updates affecting imports into Indonesia. Customs Duties and Excise Taxes: An Overview The Indonesian government imposes customs duties on imported goods to regulate the market, protect domestic industries, and generate state revenue. Customs duties and excise taxes vary based on the type, value, and classification of goods. Excise taxes specifically apply to products that may have social or environmental impacts, including: •Ethyl alcohol (ethanol) •Alcoholic beverages •Tobacco products These items are taxed to control consumption and monitor distribution, preventing negative effects on public health and safety. Restrictions on Passenger Luggage from Abroad Recent regulatory upda...

Indonesia, with its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and welcoming people, is a popular destination for expatriates. However, moving to a new country comes with its own set of challenges. Here are some common hurdles expats face in Indonesia, along with practical solutions to help ease the transition. 1. Language Barrier Challenge: Bahasa Indonesia is the official language, and while English is spoken in major cities and tourist areas, communication can be difficult in daily life. Solution: Learning basic Bahasa Indonesia phrases can be extremely helpful. Enrolling in language classes, using translation apps, and practicing with locals can improve communication skills. 2. Bureaucracy and Visa Issues Challenge: Indonesia has a complex bureaucracy, and obtaining the right visa can be confusing and time-consuming. Solution: Hiring a local consultant or immigration expert can streamline the process. Keeping up-to-date with visa regulations and ensuring all necessary documents are ...

Indonesia, with its vibrant culture, rapidly growing economy, and tropical paradise-like landscapes, is an attractive destination for expatriates looking to build a career. However, navigating the job market as a foreigner can be challenging due to visa restrictions, competition with local talent, and regulatory requirements. Here’s a guide to help you understand the job-hunting process and increase your chances of landing a job in Indonesia. Understanding the Job Market Indonesia’s economy is driven by industries such as manufacturing, tourism, education, technology, and natural resources. Certain industries are more open to hiring expatriates, especially those that require specialized skills that are not widely available in the local workforce. Some of the most common sectors hiring foreigners include: Education: Many international schools and language centers seek native English speakers to teach English. Technology and IT: Startups and tech firms may look for experienced profession...