Expat News
Social Expat News
Indonesia Guide
Business
- Imelda R
- 2 weeks ago
President Prabowo Subianto has officially launched a comprehensive economic stimulus plan, known as the ‘8+4+5 Economic Stimulus Package’, as part of the government’s strategy to maintain growth and create jobs for the remainder of 2025. The programme was announced by Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto following a meeting with President Prabowo at the […]
- Imelda R
- 3 weeks ago
Apple’s latest smartphone, the series, has officially received its Domestic Component Level (TKDN) certification from Indonesia’s Ministry of Industry (Kemenperin), marking a crucial step towards its release in the country. The certification was issued on Thursday, 11 September 2025, and announced publicly the following day. “Four TKDN certificates have been issued for iPhone 17 products, […]
- Imelda R
- 4 weeks ago
The Jakarta Provincial Government has introduced a series of tax discounts for hotels and restaurants in the capital, aimed at strengthening economic growth and ensuring business sustainability. The policy is formalised in Governor’s Decree No. 722 of 2025, signed by Governor Pramono Anung on Monday, 25 August 2025. The decree provides a reduction of between […]
- Natalia
- 4 weeks ago
At Coinfest Asia Week Bali, Fasset Reaffirms Its Commitment to a Safe, Regulated Digital Asset Platform Bali, 22 August 2025 – Fasset, the Dubai-based digital asset trading platform, remains the only company currently authorised to conduct cryptocurrency trading in both Indonesia and the United Arab Emirates. On Friday, 22 August 2025, Fasset hosted an exclusive […]
- Imelda R
- 3 months ago
On Monday, 7 July 2025, US President Donald Trump announced the imposition of import tariffs on 14 countries, including Indonesia, declaring that Indonesian products would face a tariff rate of 32%. According to Mr Trump, these tariffs were scheduled to come into effect on 1 August 2025. “The tariff imposed for Indonesia is 32%, which […]
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Travel
- Imelda R
- 1 day ago
Travel is no longer just about sightseeing or exploring new cultures. For Muslim travellers, comfort and adherence to Islamic values play an equally important role in choosing where to go. This is where halal tourism destinations come in. The Rise of Halal Tourism Destinations Halal tourism goes beyond halal food. It encompasses hotels with prayer […]
- Imelda R
- 2 weeks ago
Tenganan Bali: A Glimpse into One of Bali’s Oldest Traditional Villages Nestled in the lush hills of Karangasem Regency in the eastern part of Bali, Tenganan Pegringsingan Village, often called Tenganan Bali, is one of the island’s oldest surviving Bali Aga settlements. The Bali Aga are the island’s original inhabitants who lived long before the […]
- Imelda R
- 2 weeks ago
A video showing a foreign tourist paragliding in the Mount Bromo area, East Java, has gone viral on social media, prompting concern from both local authorities and community leaders. The footage shows a person wearing white clothing and a helmet flying a paraglider with an orange parachute canopy, gliding towards Mount Batok, a smaller volcano […]
- Imelda R
- 2 weeks ago
Nestled in the scenic highlands of Bedugul, northern Bali, Bali Farm House is a family-friendly destination that offers a unique attraction. It combines animal interaction, outdoor adventure, and farm-inspired countryside. Officially opened to the public in February 2024, this 4.7-hectare space has quickly become one of the most visited nature-based attractions for animal lovers in […]
- Imelda R
- 3 weeks ago
The Toba Caldera Geopark in North Sumatra has regained its green card status as a member of the UNESCO Global Geoparks Network following revalidation at the 11th executive committee meeting of the Global Geopark Network (GGN) Conference in Kutralkura, La Araucania, Chile, on Saturday, 6 September 2025. This development comes after the site received a […]
Popular News
Immigration Corner
Food & Drink
- Imelda R
- 6 days ago
Seblak, a Sundanese speciality from Bandung, West Java, has quietly travelled beyond Indonesian borders and is now making waves in Thailand. Known for its spicy and savoury kick with the distinctive aroma of galangal (kencur), seblak has long been a comfort food in Indonesia. Traditionally made from crackers boiled with garlic, cayenne pepper and galangal, […]
- Fidyanita S
- 1 week ago
Wait, a theatre show… while you eat? Yes, that’s exactly what “Tanda Tanya?” offers. Social Expat team was delighted to be invited and experienced Tanda Tanya? the Jakarta’s first Theatrical Dining Experience. And honestly, it’s one of the most mind-blowing dining experiences in Jakarta right now. It all set inside Copper.30, a sleek restaurant space […]
- Imelda R
- 3 weeks ago
A recently resurfaced video of British celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay tasting authentic rendang in West Sumatra has gone viral on social media, reigniting pride among Indonesian viewers. On Monday (8 September 2025), the TikTok account @natgeotv posted a flashback clip from the programme Gordon Ramsay: Uncharted, showing the renowned chef sampling an array of traditional […]
- Imelda R
- 4 weeks ago
American content creator Sonny, better known by his YouTube channel Best Ever Food Review Show, turned heads during his recent visit to Banjarmasin, South Kalimantan. The Minnesota-born host, whose real name is Will Sonbuchner, spent the day exploring Banjar culinary traditions, and one dish in particular caught everyone’s attention: Ketupat Kandangan. Rather than just tasting […]
- Imelda R
- 2 months ago
Eating by Hand: The Art of Eating Without Cutlery in Indonesian Culture In many parts of Indonesia, eating with your hands is not only common but is also a respected cultural tradition. Despite the presence of spoons, forks, chopsticks, and other modern utensils, many Indonesians still prefer to use their hands when dining. This practice […]
Meet The Enterpreneur
- Imelda R
- 2 weeks ago
President Prabowo Subianto has officially launched a comprehensive economic stimulus plan, known as the ‘8+4+5 Economic Stimulus Package’, as part of the government’s strategy to maintain growth and create jobs for the remainder of 2025. The programme was announced by Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto following a meeting with President Prabowo at the […]
- Fidyanita S
- 6 hours ago
If you find yourself wandering through the lively streets of Jakarta, particularly in the trendy neighbourhood of Kemang, you’re in for a treat! This area is one of the famous nightlife but also offers a unique rich coffee culture that attracts coffee lover. Especially, if you’re a casual coffee drinker or a self-proclaimed coffee snob, […]
- Imelda R
- 7 hours ago
Jakarta welcomed tens of millions of tourist in 2024, yet the duration of their stays remains relatively short. According to Statistics Indonesia (BPS), foreign tourists stayed in the capital for an average of only two days, while domestic tourists recorded an even lower figure of 1.53 days. “This travel data doesn’t seem to be positively […]
- Imelda R
- 11 hours ago
A short video of South Jakarta residents combining Pilates and padel has gone viral, sparking a wave of mixed reactions online. The clip, posted by the account @hansdavidian on Saturday (27 September 2025), shows gym-goers performing their usual Pilates routines while holding padel rackets and bouncing tennis balls. Lihat postingan ini di Instagram […]
- Imelda R
- 1 day ago
Indonesian contestant Kaycia Lee drew widespread praise during the Miss International Queen 2025 final in Pattaya, Thailand, after offering an immediate embrace to the newly crowned winner, Midori Monét of the United States. The event, held on Saturday (20 September 2025), was marked by celebration as well as controversy, but Lee’s gesture of warmth stood […]
Popular News
Health & Wellness
- Imelda R
- 5 days ago
Indonesia has entered the global top ten for World Wellness Weekend 2025, securing ninth place among participating countries. With 307 activities hosted across Jakarta and Bali, the country stood out as one of the leading destinations for health and wellness tourism. Jakarta itself was ranked sixth among the world’s top 20 cities, thanks to its […]
- Gita Regina
- 2 weeks ago
Recommended Dental Clinics near me – Looking for a recommended dental clinic in Jakarta may not be the first goal for you. But keeping this list of dental clinics that we have prepared might be a consideration because you don’t want a toothache to ruin your important moment, do you? Here are the Best Dental Clinics […]
- Natalia
- 2 weeks ago
Whether your child spikes a fever in the middle of the night or it’s time for a routine checkup, knowing where to turn for trusted care is essential. For expat families in Bali’s tropical paradise, finding reliable, high-quality healthcare when it matters most is often a top concern. This comprehensive guide will provide you with […]
- Imelda R
- 1 month ago
Recommendations for the Best Bali Meditation Retreats Meditation in Bali, Indonesia, has long been popular thanks to the island’s natural beauty, serene landscapes, and deeply spiritual atmosphere. For visitors seeking wellness, inner peace, or a structured retreat programme, Bali offers a wide choice of retreat centres, spas, jungle sanctuaries, and silent retreats. These centres cater […]
- Natalia
- 2 months ago
Living in paradise comes with its own unique set of considerations, and if you’re planning to call Bali home, whether temporarily or permanently, securing proper health insurance should be at the top of your priority list. The Island of the Gods offers incredible experiences, but medical emergencies don’t pause for tropical sunsets. Understanding your health […]
Popular News
Popular News
Hotel & Restaurant Reviews
- Fidyanita S
- 6 hours ago
If you find yourself wandering through the lively streets of Jakarta, particularly in the trendy neighbourhood of Kemang, you’re in for a treat! This area is one of the famous nightlife but also offers a unique rich coffee culture that attracts coffee lover. Especially, if you’re a casual coffee drinker or a self-proclaimed coffee snob, […]
- Imelda R
- 5 days ago
Bali has long been known as one of the world’s top destinations for both cultural exploration and luxury hospitality. The island offers a wide range of five-star hotels, from beachfront resorts on the Indian Ocean to secluded villas in the lush hills of Ubud. The Best Bali 5 Star Hotels and Resorts for Luxury Stays […]
- Fidyanita S
- 5 days ago
Looking for a hotel in Jakarta that offers both comfort and convenience? Look no further. Our curated list of hotels in Jakarta provides easy access to the mall, ensuring ultimate convenience for you. Located in the heart of Jakarta, they offer direct access to a shopping haven, allowing you to have best shopping experience. You […]
- Fidyanita S
- 6 days ago
There is a growing community of pet owners in Jakarta who are always looking for pet-friendly places to visit with their furry friends. Our previous article looked at some of Jakarta’s best pet-friendly cafes and restaurants. So, by popular demand, in this article, we’ll look for more pet-friendly places in Jakarta for you to visit. […]
- Fidyanita S
- 1 week ago
If you’re planning a Bali getaway in 2025, don’t skip Nusa Lembongan! this laid-back little island is all about crystal-clear turquoise waters, white sand, and beach clubs that know how to set the vibes. Here is where you can enjoy comfy daybeds by the ocean, stunning views of Devil’s Tear, good food, tropical cocktails, and […]