Kalimantan, Indonesia

Living in Kalimantan, the Indonesian portion of Borneo, is no tropical paradise. Covering 73% of the island's landmass, this sprawling territory is home to over 23 million people as of 2020. However, the widespread deforestation and environmental destruction here have often been described as an ecocide.

Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with the region split into five provinces that were once administered as a single entity. The hot, humid climate is another challenge, as the name "Kalimantan" derives from Sanskrit words meaning "burning weather island." Despite these difficulties, the diverse ethnic and religious makeup of the population - including large Muslim, Christian, and Hindu communities - suggests Kalimantan may appeal to those seeking a unique cultural experience in Indonesia. But for the average expat, the environmental toll and administrative hurdles make this region a questionable choice.