What do expats find most challenging?

We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Indonesia. They wrote...

"Due to the economic status of most nationals, they seem satisfied with "getting by". For example, if our a/c isn't working, the repairman will come and repair the problem using a "bandage" approach rather than repairing the problem. Of course, they make more money if they must come back more than once :) Also, due to the poverty, lack of transportation, and room to store items, my household help doesn't understand the concept of buying in bulk so you don't need to go shopping on a daily basis. Other than that, I think my biggest challenge is the abundant "wildlife" that seems to creep into the house, climb on the roof or cross my patio from time to time," explained one expat living in Duri/Simpang Padong, Riau, Sumatra, Indonesia.

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"For me, I found corruption a challenge. Police in Indonesia actually buy their jobs, and because the jobs pay very little, the only way they can earn enough money to live is thru bribery," said another expat in Indonesia.

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What do expats find most challenging?

If you live in Indonesia, newcomers to Indonesia would love to hear your answer to this question.

About the Author

Joshua Wood is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.