Expat News
Social Expat News
Indonesia Guide
Business
- Imelda R
- 1 month 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 […]
- Imelda R
- 1 month ago
United States President Donald Trump has confirmed the imposition of a 32% import tariff on all Indonesian products entering the US market, with the new rate coming into effect on 1 August 2025. The announcement was made through a series of posts on his social media platform, Truth Social, on Monday, 7 July (US time), […]
- Natalia
- 3 months ago
As inflation bites and market uncertainty persists, more investors are turning to gold—a long-standing safe haven asset, to preserve wealth and hedge against volatility. But while gold has a reputation for stability, many still perceive it as requiring high upfront capital and complex logistics. Despite that, the perception is slowly changing along with the banking […]
- Imelda R
- 4 months ago
Modern society is always captivated by the latest in technology. Recently, the World App, part of the Worldcoin ecosystem, gained widespread attention across social media platforms and began appearing in public areas throughout Jakarta and nearby regions. The app sparked national conversation after Indonesia’s Financial Services Authority (OJK) and the Ministry of Communications and Digital […]
- Natalia
- 4 months ago
In this article, Social Expat is joined with Givenia, a professional legal associate from LMI Consultancy, to answer your most common questions in regard to registering a company in Indonesia in 2025. You may have noticed a lot of conflicting information on the internet and in social media groups about registering a new business in […]
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Travel
- Imelda R
- 4 days ago
One Day Trip Ubud: Nature, Culture, and Cuisine in Bali’s Cultural Heart Beyond a single day’s itinerary, Ubud remains known for its varied attractions. The area offers natural beauty in its rice fields and valleys, a cultural centre through galleries and dance performances, and traditional villages such as Penglipuran and Tenganan that preserve older ways […]
- Imelda R
- 5 days ago
Mawun Beach, located in the Tumpak area of Central Lombok Regency, West Nusa Tenggara, has been named the best beach in Indonesia by international visitors. The recognition came from Travel and Leisure, with travel journalist and designer Kathryn Romeyn sharing her personal pick after a decade of living in Indonesia. “Picture electric turquoise water so […]
- Imelda R
- 1 week ago
Solo Travel in Bali: The Complete Travel Guide for Independent Travellers Travelling alone offers freedom, flexibility, and a unique sense of adventure. Solo travel in Bali, Indonesia’s most visited island, is not only popular but also considered one of the best options for solo travellers, including women travelling alone. With its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, […]
- Imelda R
- 2 weeks ago
If you’re seeking a quiet, lesser-known natural retreat in Indonesia, Paisupok Lake in Central Sulawesi should be high on your list. Nestled in the Banggai Islands, this hidden gem offers crystal clear water surrounded by dense forest and unspoiled nature. Known locally as Danau Paisupok or Danau Paisu Pok Luk Panenteng, it stands out as one of […]
- Imelda R
- 3 weeks ago
Ultimate Bali Packing List for Foreign Tourists Planning your Bali holiday goes beyond securing flights and hotels. Understanding visa regulations, preparing for the dry season tropical climate, and knowing exactly what to wear in Bali can make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable. As the number of international visitors to Bali reached over 6.3 million […]
Popular News
Immigration Corner
Food & Drink
- Imelda R
- 3 weeks 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 […]
- Natalia
- 4 weeks ago
When Jakarta’s heat calls for something indulgent yet refreshing, Osteria Gia answers with sunshine on a plate. This August and September, the much-loved Italian restaurant at Plaza Indonesia is serving up something special: a limited-time seasonal menu titled “Italian Summer Feast”, and it’s every bit as dreamy as it sounds. Tapping into the soul of […]
- Imelda R
- 4 weeks ago
A group of British Royal Navy soldiers recently found themselves in a new kind of challenge, taking on the bold flavours of nasi kapau, a traditional West Sumatran dish, during a visit to a Padang restaurant in Jakarta. The moment, shared by content creator Laurence Benson, captured the soldiers’ enthusiastic (and occasionally fiery) reactions to […]
- Imelda R
- 1 month ago
The Blok M area in South Jakarta is widely known as “Little Tokyo” for its strong Japanese cultural influence and wide selection of Japanese restaurants. Authentic Japanese Restaurant Blok M: Little Tokyo Neighbourhood This neighbourhood has become a go-to destination for those in search of authentic Japanese cuisine in Indonesia. From ramen and sushi to yakitori and […]
- Fidyanita S
- 2 months ago
In today’s restaurant review, Social Expat team visited High Table Restaurant that becomes a spotlight in middle of SCBD Park area in Jakarta. High Table Restaurant Jakarta offers a remarkable culinary journey that blends contemporary fine dining with the rich flavors of Indonesian cuisine and their best selections of Steak menu. It is you go-to […]
Meet The Enterpreneur
- Imelda R
- 1 month 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 […]
- Imelda R
- 10 hours 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 […]
- Imelda R
- 12 hours ago
A fire broke out on Monday (18 August 2025) at the site of the former Blue Ocean Hotel on Bingin Beach, Pecatu Village, South Kuta, Bali, disrupting ongoing demolition work on illegal buildings in the area. According to South Kuta Police Chief Kompol I Komang Agus Dharmayana, smoke was first noticed around 11:00 AM. “The […]
- Imelda R
- 15 hours ago
Bali Governor Wayan Koster has ruled out the development of a casino on the island, saying the proposal is incompatible with Bali’s culture-based tourism model. Speaking at the launch of a cooperation agreement on tourist fees in Denpasar, as quoted by Antara on Saturday, 16 August 2025, he said: “I was promised that if there […]
- Natalia
- 4 days 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
Health & Wellness
- Imelda R
- 10 hours 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
- 4 days 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 […]
- Natalia
- 1 month ago
Indonesia draws expats with its high quality of life, growing business opportunities, and low cost of living. Whether you’re a professional working in Jakarta’s financial district or a family seeking new experiences in Bali, the country offers compelling advantages for international residents. However, one critical aspect requires attention: Understanding how to access quality healthcare when […]
- Natalia
- 1 month ago
14 July 2025 – There are few places around Jakarta that live up to the promise of peace. In a compound of cities driven by motion and noise, stillness is rare. On the last weekend of 12–13 July, the Social Expat team was introduced to an excellent selection of experiences rooted in serenity, tranquillity, and […]
- Imelda R
- 3 months ago
Indonesia is home to a rich tradition of natural healing practices that have been passed down through generations. Rooted in local wisdom and shaped by centuries of cultural heritage, Indonesian traditional medicine employs an array of natural ingredients, ranging from medicinal plants to kitchen spices, to address a wide variety of health concerns. This long-standing […]
Popular News
Popular News
Hotel & Restaurant Reviews
- Natalia
- 1 month ago
14 July 2025 – There are few places around Jakarta that live up to the promise of peace. In a compound of cities driven by motion and noise, stillness is rare. On the last weekend of 12–13 July, the Social Expat team was introduced to an excellent selection of experiences rooted in serenity, tranquillity, and […]
- Imelda R
- 1 month ago
Plataran Bromo, GH Universal Bandung, and Resinda Hotel Karawang Highlighted in 2025 Travellers’ Choice Awards Three Indonesian hotels have been recognised among the world’s most family-friendly accommodations in the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards 2025, announced in April. Each hotel, located in a different region of Java, offers a distinct experience for family holidays during the […]
- Imelda R
- 1 month ago
The Blok M area in South Jakarta is widely known as “Little Tokyo” for its strong Japanese cultural influence and wide selection of Japanese restaurants. Authentic Japanese Restaurant Blok M: Little Tokyo Neighbourhood This neighbourhood has become a go-to destination for those in search of authentic Japanese cuisine in Indonesia. From ramen and sushi to yakitori and […]
- Natalia
- 1 month ago
Jakarta , July 2025 – Tucked away in the leafy corner of Menteng, Naaga Bar has always been more than just a place to drink. Last Friday, Naaga bar elevated its philosophy once again, hosting an intimate and immersive launch event for its latest collection: “Every Sip Tells a Story.” It was a perfect rendition […]
- Natalia
- 2 months ago
Sunday, 29 June 2025 | Semaja, Menteng, Jakarta Jakarta’s food scene is no stranger to innovation, but few experiences blend nostalgia, creativity, and heart as seamlessly as what we experienced at the Indonesian Sunday Brunch by Semaja x Kayu Manis, last Sunday, 29 June 2025. The moment stepped into Semaja’s warm and inviting space, we […]