Expat Stories
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- The most prominent expat group in Semarang, SMC has an active Facebook group with over 470 members. The group is run by a committee that regularly organizes gatherings such as coffee mornings, social “mingles,” family picnics, theme parties, and engaging local events like factory visits and workshops.
- SMC also supports annual charity projects, donating both clothes and a percentage of event entrance fees.
- The community is welcoming to newcomers; questions about life in Semarang are quickly answered on their social media pages, making it a helpful resource for acclimating to the city.
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- About 50% expat participation. This cross-country running group meets every Saturday afternoon, with both medium and long run options, catering to different fitness levels. Families are welcome, and post-run socials are common at the On-On Pub at Candi Baru Hotel. They also run a “Sunset Hash” twice a week. Event information and directions are posted on their dedicated Facebook and SMC pages.
- Other Social and Networking Opportunities
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- Expats also join events related to professional development, language learning, and cultural exchange, often facilitated through international schools, businesses, and dedicated expat forums.
- Semarang is home to several international schools and cultural centers that host events and courses accessible to the foreign community, such as language classes and workshops designed to foster cross-cultural understanding.
Lifestyle, Integration, and Daily Life
- The expat lifestyle in Semarang is generally laid-back, with a strong sense of community and a welcoming atmosphere.
- The cost of living is attractive, ranking below other major Indonesian cities like Jakarta and Bali, and housing options range from affordable apartments to upscale residences.
- Many expats reside in neighborhoods such as Semarang Atas (Candi area), which are considered expat-friendly, with amenities, shops, and restaurants catering to international tastes.
- The city provides easy access to recreational activities (water sports, golf, historic districts like Old Town, vibrant Chinatown) and modern healthcare.
Semarang’s expat network may be smaller than Jakarta or Bali, but it is tightly knit, proactive, and eager to help new arrivals settle in and thrive in Central Java’s capital. For more information about Expat Communities in Semarang, you can check out this website: Expat Living in Semarang, Central Java.
