Recently I got asked this question by some people. I've never really listed the answers, I only knew I didn't want to go back to Indonesia unless no options at all for me. So now I will try to list it.
1. No one is too nosy about your life. You want to be gay, having kids without marriage, not married without kids, etc you name it. It will be much less judgmental community compared to Indonesia. Not that I want to be doing all less-morality things, but life is hard already without people thinking their opinions are needed in somebody else's life. We will all die eventually. Why don't you mind your own business?
2. Less dumb people. I know this sounds harsh, but true. Well, we know anyway that Indonesia is a developing country, while US is already developed. It feels like the US people understand everything a lot better. Common sense, etc. I'm struggling to deal with dummies, I'm impatient like that. I can't handle looking at people that can't wait in line (antri), can't handle people spending hours inside an ATM (dude, ATM is mainly for withdrawal, everything else you should do it online or at the bank!), can't handle people standing very close to the baggage carousel (seriously, what's the point), and many more! I know it is wise to educate others, but I just give up.
3. People got valued based on their merits. I already realized this when I was still in Jakarta and employed by American company. My bosses are typically open to value my work, etc. They also don't feel superior to anyone under them (another opposite thing to Indonesian bosses typically). But now when I live in the US, I feel that even more. When you're good, you will be successful. Generally nobody will consider your family background (politics) or your religions, gender, etc.
4. People are walking towards equality. The struggle I have when dating an Indonesian, is that they usually think that women are lower than men. OK maybe not all. But that's is the common thing. Which leads to them feeling intimidated when a girl is successful. For me that is dumb, and once again, I can't handle that. Meanwhile in the US, people can be anything they want. You want to be successful? Work hard and earn it. You're a woman? Good for you!
5. I feel more capable and independent. I know it is a lot of hassle that most people can't afford a helper here. Heck I would choose to have a helper any time! But also I feel that a lot of things here have taught me to be a lot more self-independent. I learned how to do things by myself, when it is needed.
6. Obvious things: more secured community, less polution and no traffic! This doesn't really require too detailed explanations, but I'll give example. I forgot my wallet 3 times (one in a supermarket, overnight, one in a public restroom, one in a restaurant) and I forgot my cellphone at a restaurant once. They always keep it for me. In Indonesia? You can only dream!
It doesn't mean that it is far perfect than Indonesia, of course. There are some small things that I like better in Indo. But it would surely be hard for me to miss those 6 things above if I had to come back.
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