Kediri, Indonesia

Football may be the pride of Kediri, but the reality for expats is a city struggling with bureaucracy and a provincial atmosphere. With a population of over 300,000, Kediri is known for its thriving sugar industry and the local football club Persik Kediri, which has won the Indonesian league twice. However, the city's colonial past has left a persistent headache in the form of complex paperwork and red tape. Additionally, the tropical climate can be a shock for those used to temperate weather. Overall, Kediri is best suited for those seeking a quieter, more traditional Indonesian experience, rather than the bright lights and bustle of Jakarta.