The Cost of Living in Banjarmasin: A Comprehensive Guide

Banjarmasin is a picturesque city located on the banks of the Barito River in Indonesia. It is known for its floating markets, traditional houses, and stunning scenery. However, before you decide to move to Banjarmasin, it is important to know about the cost of living in this city. In this blog post, we’ll explore the different factors that affect the cost of living in Banjarmasin to help you make an informed decision.

Housing

One of the most significant expenses in Banjarmasin is housing. The rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost around IDR 2.5-3 million per month. Properties outside of the city can be cheaper, with monthly rent costing around IDR 1.5-2 million per month. If you’re looking to buy property in Banjarmasin, you should expect to pay around IDR 8-10 million per square meter for a new apartment.

Food

Food is relatively cheap in Banjarmasin. Eating out at a local restaurant can cost around IDR 30-50 thousand per meal, including a drink. Ordering food from a street stall can cost even less, with prices starting from IDR 5-10 thousand per portion. If you’re looking to cook at home, you can expect to pay around IDR 1 million per month for groceries.

Transportation

Transportation in Banjarmasin is also affordable, with a single bus ticket costing around IDR 5 thousand. However, the downside is that public transportation in the city is limited, and you may need to rely on taxis, which can be more expensive. A one-way trip in a taxi can cost around IDR 30-50 thousand. It’s worth noting that traffic in Banjarmasin can be congested, which can increase your travel time and cost.

Utilities

Most landlords in Banjarmasin include utility bills such as electricity, water, and gas in the monthly rent. However, if you’re living in an independent apartment or house, you should expect to pay around IDR 500-800 thousand per month for these services.

Healthcare

The cost of healthcare in Banjarmasin is affordable, but the quality of services can vary. A basic visit to a doctor can cost around IDR 100-200 thousand, while a specialist consultation can cost up to IDR 500 thousand. It’s also worth investing in comprehensive medical insurance if you’re planning to stay in Banjarmasin for an extended period.

Entertainment

Entertainment in Banjarmasin is inexpensive, with a movie ticket costing only around IDR 30-50 thousand. Visiting one of the popular tourist attractions such as the floating market or traditional village can cost around IDR 10 thousand. If you’re looking to enjoy a night out with drinks, it can cost around IDR 50-100 thousand per person, depending on the establishment.

Conclusion

Overall, the cost of living in Banjarmasin is relatively affordable compared to other cities in Indonesia or around the world. However, the cost of housing and transportation can vary based on your location and lifestyle preferences. It’s essential to create a budget that includes basic necessities such as accommodation, food, and transportation to help you plan for your expenses. By understanding the different factors that affect the cost of living in Banjarmasin, you can make an informed decision about whether this city is the right place for you.

The Cost of Living in Banjarmasin: A Comprehensive Guide for Tourists

Located in South Borneo, Indonesia, Banjarmasin is known as the “River City” as it is situated at the meeting point of the Barito and Martapura rivers. With its unique blend of cultures and vast natural beauty, Banjarmasin has captured the hearts of many tourists. However, before packing your bags, you might want to know what the cost of living in Banjarmasin is. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with a detailed insider’s view of what Banjarmasin has to offer, including local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Local Attractions

Banjarmasin has several unique and interesting places that are perfect destinations for visitors. Some of the popular must-visit spots include:

– Martapura Market: Known as the Diamond Market, Martapura Market is a treasure trove of precious stones. Visitors can shop for high-quality gems like emeralds, sapphires, and diamonds at a reasonable price.

– Floating Market: One of the city’s most famous attractions, the Floating Market is where locals gather on boats to sell their wares. Visitors can explore this unique marketplace by renting a small traditional boat and enjoy the local delicacies that are sold by the vendors.

– Sabilal Muhtadin Mosque: Considered the most beautiful mosque in Banjarmasin, Sabilal Muhtadin Mosque is a must-visit attraction for its intricate architecture and stunning inner court.

Dining Spots

When it comes to food, Banjarmasin offers a unique culinary experience that is worth trying. The city’s local cuisine is heavily influenced by Malay, Chinese, and native Dayak cultures. Some of the best dining spots offering authentic Banjarmasin cuisine include:

– Rumah Makan Surya: This restaurant offers a wide variety of local cuisine, including Ayam Penyet, a popular chicken dish served with sambal and rice.

– Warung Mie Banjar: The perfect spot to try Mie Banjar, a local noodle dish that is a combination of Chinese and Indonesian cuisine.

– Warung Sate Kambing Kebumen: A favorite hangout spot for meat lovers, Warung Sate Kambing Kebumen offers grilled goat meat on a skewer served with rice and peanut sauce.

Cultural Experiences

Banjarmasin has a rich cultural heritage that is worth exploring. Among the cultural experiences worth indulging in include:

– Dance Racak: A traditional Dayak dance that depicts the journey of a hunter who captures a bird and takes it home.

– Tari Papan: A traditional Malay dance that is performed during weddings and other cultural events.

– Hudoq Dance: A traditional Dayak dance that is performed to invite good luck and plentiful harvests.

Local History

Located on an island that is surrounded by rivers, Banjarmasin has a long and rich history. One of the best places to learn about its history is at the Museum Lambung Mangkurat, which is filled with interesting artifacts from the city’s past. Visitors can see ancient artifacts like traditional Dayak headhunting swords, musical instruments, and pottery.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those looking to explore a lesser-known side of Banjarmasin, consider visiting:

– Lok Baintan Floating Village: This small village is located just outside of Banjarmasin. The entire village is built on the river and is accessible only by boat. Visitors can explore the rustic life of the villagers and indulge in traditional food.

– Cempaka Diamond Mines: Located about an hour’s drive from Banjarmasin, Cempaka Diamond Mines is where the locals hunt for precious stones. Visitors can learn how local miners extract precious stones from the mines.

Conclusion

Banjarmasin is a city full of surprises and delightful experiences. Whether you are a history buff, a culinary enthusiast, or someone who loves exploring a unique culture and tradition, Banjarmasin has something to offer everyone. With this comprehensive insider’s guide, you now have everything you need to plan your next trip to this beautiful city.