Understanding the Annoyances of Being a Foreigner in Indonesia

When it comes to sharing experiences of life abroad, especially in different cultural contexts, it's not uncommon to encounter a mix of interesting, sometimes frustrating, moments. Let's delve into what many Indonesians observe as the most annoying behaviors from foreigners living or visiting in their country.

Observations and Common Annoyances

First and foremost, it's important to understand that cultural differences and personal opinions can vary widely. However, based on observations and common feedback, here are some key points that stand out:

Walking or Cycling on the Wrong Side of the Road

One common source of frustration for many Indonesians is when they see individuals, particularly those from European or American backgrounds, walking or cycling on the wrong side of the road. This is a clear violation of traffic rules and safety guidelines that all Indonesians follow. It not only puts the individual at risk but also adds to the frustration of local pedestrians and drivers.

Unusual Fashion Choices

Another notable element is the choice of clothing. Many first-time visitors or tourists are often criticized for wearing outdoor or off-road clothing in urban environments. This is often seen as bad taste and a lack of awareness of the social norm. It might be due to a misunderstanding of what is considered appropriate based on the local social conditions. These fashion choices can be perplexing for locals who often associate these styles with places that may not have the same social standards or infrastructure.

Inaccuracy in Perceptions of Indonesia

Perhaps one of the most significant issues is the often-sharply negative perception of Indonesia. Many foreign visitors or workers may hold misconceptions that Indonesia is a "shithole" or assume incorrect stereotypes about the country, like the comparison to Afghanistan (A-stan) or other war-torn nations. This misperception can make it difficult for people to overcome initial judgmental attitudes and truly engage with the local community.

No Map Reading Skills

It's also quite frustrating to see many foreigners in Indonesia rely on others to read maps or navigate. Many seem to believe that the entire archipelago is nothing more than an isolated island, leading to confusion and inefficiency in travel and movement. Improving map-reading skills can greatly enhance one's experience in such a geographically diverse and complex country like Indonesia.

Overgeneralization of Social Environment

Another annoyance is the tendency of foreign workers to assume that the social conditions they observe in their immediate environment represent the whole nation. This can lead to significant misunderstandings and issues, both for the individual and their social interactions in Indonesia.

Treating Indonesia as Just Another Hike

Lastly, the lack of respect for safety advisories in national parks and hiking areas is a major issue. Many deep-sea travelers or hikers often underestimate the risks involved, leading to avoidable accidents. It's crucial for all travelers to heed the local safety advisories and follow the local norms, not just for their own safety but also to show respect for the local environment and culture.

Understanding and respecting local norms, laws, and cultural practices is key to a more harmonious and enjoyable experience when living or visiting any foreign country, especially Indonesia. This article aims to shed light on some common experiences and challenges, offering a mix of insight and advice to help foreigners integrate better into Indonesian society.