Newcomer Living Long-Term in CABA vs Southeast Asia: Insights from an Expat Perspective

[Chambers]

For those who have lived long-term in CABA/Argentina and Southeast Asia, how do the two compare from an expat’s perspective? I’m about to move to LATAM/CABA and want to go in with my eyes wide open, aware of what to expect when living there long-term. I’ve been in Indonesia for a while, and while there’s a lot to love (beaches, nature), there are also plenty of challenges. The longer you stay, the more you realize the undercurrent of "we don’t want outsiders... unless they’re tourists with money." Tough and expensive visas, limited property rights (leases, not full ownership), and even government task forces targeting "misbehaving foreigners." It’s good to know these things before committing long-term.

Also, in Indonesia, the Instagram-perfect pictures of preserved nature and cultural sites don’t match the reality of plastic-filled beaches, greenspaces being destroyed for more construction, and cultural sites being sold out for quick tourist money.

My experience in Argentina has mostly been positive, with a warm welcome and respect for those who respect the country and its people. Nature is generally preserved, and people take ownership of their neighborhoods and environment. Public services are a mess like anywhere else, but Argentinians and South Americans, in general, have a strong connection to their country and community. People are generally welcoming, and beyond touristy areas, you’re not seen as a walking ATM.

That said, I’d love to hear how accurate or inaccurate this impression is when actually living long-term in Buenos Aires and Argentina. Also, any "ugly" sides that only show up after years of living there would be helpful to know. I know the economy is a mess, and inflation is crazy, but I’d love to hear other perspectives. Thanks, guys!

 

[Ron]

The costs are definitely much higher than in Southeast Asia, but the language is easier with its Latin roots, and you don’t stick out like a sore thumb as you do in many parts of Asia. Plus, scamming tourists isn’t as widespread as in Southeast Asia (not that it doesn’t happen, but for example, I can get a taxi in Argentina without worrying about paying 5 times the normal price). Also, the people here are really friendly and there’s no issue with foreigners. Those are just a few of the reasons I chose Buenos Aires over Asia 😊.

 

[LongIslander]

The costs are definitely much higher than in Southeast Asia, but the language is easier with its Latin roots, and you don’t stick out like a sore thumb as you do in many parts of Asia. Plus, scamming tourists isn’t as widespread as in Southeast Asia (not that it doesn’t happen, but for example, I can get a taxi in Argentina without worrying about paying 5 times the normal price). Also, the people here are really friendly and there’s no issue with foreigners. Those are just a few of the reasons I chose Buenos Aires over Asia 😊.

I have never got scammed in Southeast Asia. They have Grab rideshare in most countries and it is very easy.

 

[Hero]

I've been traveling to Southeast Asia on and off for the past 20 years, and the cost of living here is definitely much higher. On top of that, there's never any real stability when it comes to the economy. As for beaches, even with the plastic problem, nothing here really compares.
Argentines are generally very welcoming, but recently, some new foreign groups have been causing issues. If you spend time with locals and they open up to you, they'll tell you about people who come just to get a passport and then look down on Argentines, it was really disappointing to hear.
At some point, the same thing will happen to you here. When the foreigner bubble bursts, you'll start noticing more of the downsides, and you might feel like moving on. Personally, I’d rather enjoy my time here for a while and then go.