Jakarta · 29°C · Overcast clouds · Rp 17,875 / USD

Practical Living

From navigating Jakarta traffic to finding the best hobbies and hidden gems, discover the everyday know-how that helps expats truly settle into city life.

Living in Jakarta becomes much easier once you know where to find reliable, practical information. Everyday routines may work differently from those in your home country, whether you are arranging internet access, buying groceries, travelling across the city or deciding how to spend your free time. This collection brings together straightforward advice for expatriates, international families and foreign professionals settling into life in the capital and elsewhere in Indonesia. You will find guidance on transportation in Jakarta, including taxis, ride-hailing services and public transport, as well as information about shopping centres, supermarkets, speciality food stores, personal services, home security and other details that can make daily life more manageable.

Making a home here is not only about handling practical necessities; it is also about finding activities, services and communities that help you enjoy your time in Indonesia. The articles below introduce hobbies in Jakarta and leisure activities for different interests and stages of life, from sports and fitness clubs, golf and scuba diving to spas, nightlife, books and fun activities for children. There is also practical advice on safety, communications, travel within Indonesia and services such as tailoring, beauty care, cleaning and catering. Some resources focus specifically on Jakarta, while others are useful throughout the country. Browse the collection to answer immediate questions, discover options you may not have considered and gain the local knowledge that often takes newcomers months to acquire.

Latest in Practical Living
Transnational Lives Expatriates in Indonesia

Transnational Lives: Expatriates in Indonesia

Article Updated on June 11, 2026

Editor’s Note: Transnational Lives: Expatriates in Indonesia was first published in 2007 and is based on research conducted among Jakarta’s expatriate community in the early...

Expat Orientation Exam

Expat Orientation Exam

Article Published on April 28, 2009

1. When stopped by a policeman in Jakarta traffic you need: a. Driver’s license b. Registration c. Rp 10,000 (maybe more) d. All of the...

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