American Women's Association of Indonesia

Moving to Jakarta

Did you just find out that you're moving to Jakarta? You are probably having a bunch of mixed emotions- excitement, apprehension, curiosity- which are very normal. We are here to help answer your many questions: what to pack, what to expect, school calendars and contact details, grocery availability, local customs and culture, and tips on how to navigate the expatriate experience.

Publications: Some of the best printed resources for your new adventure are available right here at AWA. Please check the Publications page to find the latest AWA books on Indonesian culture and history, our famous Jakarta Shopper's Guide, and our popular Indonesian Words and Phrases book. All of these AWA publications can be purchased at the AWA Center.

Newcomer's Coffee Morning: We also offer a Newcomer's Coffee Morning to help answer your many questions and concerns. Here at AWA, we all have been through the experience of arriving in Jakarta. We have a good balance within our membership for you to draw upon -- some of us are brand new to an international lifestyle and some of us have been expatriates for decades. This Newcomer's meeting is packed with need-to-know notes and news about life in Jakarta.

Additional Resources

In addition to our many AWA resources, here are other references that may be helpful to you:

Register with The United States Embassy in Jakarta, Indonesia, upon your arrival in Jakarta. Here you will find valuable information on visas, passports, and any updates and information pertaining to American citizens.
Practical information on living in Jakarta is available at www.expat.or.id. This site provides useful information about expat life to help ease your transition. They have extensive information on housing, schooling, leisure, medical, and many other topics.
The Indonesian Heritage Society is a non-profit organization which offers the opportunity to learn more about the rich cultural heritage of Indonesia.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention is a wonderful online source for finding credible health information, etc. Check on any required travel immunizations for Southeast Asia here.
American Chamber of Commerce is a non-profit organization serving as the voice of America's business community which maintains the spirit of cooperation with other organizations.
The American Embassy Recreation Association or AECRA, commonly referred to as The American Club, is open to Americans and a limited number of other nationalities. It is centrally located with a wide variety of facilities, classes, and activities, perfect for the family or for single membership. Contact the Club for more information at Membership@aecra-club.org.
If you are moving to Jakarta and would like additional information on your move, check out our sponsors Santa Fe Relocation Services and Colliers International. Here are some helpful links.