Introduction

I have spent over a year in the Netherlands, and through this experience, I have gained valuable insights into the differences between living in these two distinct cultures. This article aims to provide a comprehensive comparison of various aspects of life, including weather, public transportation, food, social life, language, housing, healthcare, salary, and quality of life, to help individuals make informed decisions about their living preferences.

Weather

The Netherlands vs. Indonesia: The Dutch weather is often a source of frustration. During the summer, a sunny day is rare, and January is typically the gloomiest month. In contrast, Indonesia enjoys a relatively stable warm climate, with rainy days providing a cooling effect. The Dutch weather can lead to depression, whereas the rainy days in Indonesia contribute to a more comfortable temperature.

Public Transportation

The Netherlands: With its well-established public transport system, the Netherlands offers a convenient and efficient way to navigate the country. The system is praised for its reliability and accessibility, making daily commuting much easier.

Indonesia: Public transportation in Indonesia is improving but is still less developed compared to the Netherlands. Jakarta is infamous for its traffic jams, which can be incredibly frustrating, especially during rush hour and rainy days. In comparison, the traffic in the Netherlands is perceived as less problematic.

Food

The Netherlands: Dutch cuisine is known for its simplicity and often criticized for being bland. However, the country has its unique dishes, and the growing interest in international cuisine has introduced a diverse range of options.

Indonesia: Indonesian food is vibrant and diverse, with a wide range of flavors and textures. Even the Dutch acknowledge the rich culinary heritage of Indonesian cuisine, as evidenced by the inclusion of Indonesian rijsttafel in the list of intangible Dutch heritage.

Social Life

The Netherlands: The Dutch are known for their directness and clear boundaries. They do not pry into personal life unless someone chooses to share, which can be refreshing for those who value privacy.

Indonesia: Indonesians tend to be more curious about personal information and are less concerned with boundaries. Additionally, social customs, such as paying for dates or giving gifts, differ significantly between the two cultures.

Language

The Netherlands: Due to the fluency in English and the lack of native Dutch speakers to practice with, many foreigners prefer to avoid learning Dutch. However, learning the language is still essential for full integration and cultural experience.

Indonesia: While the middle class is usually fluent in English, the overall proficiency of the population is relatively low. Indonesian language, otherwise known as Bahasa Indonesia, is the key to navigating the country effectively.

Housing

The Netherlands: The housing crisis makes it challenging to find affordable housing, especially for those with average wages. Rents can be particularly high, and sharing spaces with fellow Dutch people is common. Signs that say "No Internationals" are sometimes seen.

Indonesia: The property market is currently cooling, making housing more affordable. However, for international expatriates, finding suitable housing can still be a challenge.

Healthcare

The Netherlands: Dutch healthcare is known for efficiency but may lead to misdiagnoses. Navigating the healthcare system can be complicated, and access to specialized care may sometimes be an issue.

Indonesia: Healthcare in Indonesia is a blend of public and private services. While it may not be as efficient, it is generally well-regulated, allowing for quick access to specialists when needed.

Salary and Quality of Life

Salary: The Netherlands is one of the wealthiest countries, but income inequality is still a concern. The minimum salary in the Netherlands is equivalent to a high salary in Indonesia, though living costs in the Netherlands are significantly higher. In Indonesia, social mobility is often dependent on education, and even tech jobs can offer low salaries.

Quality of Life: The Netherlands has a higher quality of life, with good air quality, compared to Indonesia, where air pollution is a significant issue, especially in urban areas.

Immigration

The Netherlands: This country is known for its international atmosphere and acceptance of immigration. However, skilled immigration is less common, and the chance of a Dutch person getting a job in Indonesia is lower due to limited sponsorship policies.

Indonesia: Indonesian individuals often migrate for better economic opportunities within the country, particularly from outer Java to Java. However, the Netherlands has a more stable local economy, making it less common for Dutch people to move there permanently.

Personal Reflection

For introverts like myself, the Netherlands offers a comfortable living experience with less noise pollution and less spontaneous social pressure. However, it may be challenging for those who enjoy spontaneous outings with friends. The prospect of future living may depend on individual preferences and circumstances, such as the availability of good weather conditions in Indonesia.

Ultimately, the choice between the Netherlands and Indonesia is a deeply personal one, influenced by various factors such as climate, culture, and personal values. Each has its unique advantages and challenges that can shape the quality of life for expatriates and immigrants.