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Seeking views on living in Algeria....

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jenfr
  12/16/2006 18:26 EST

Hi, I'm looking to hear from anyone who has moved to Algeria and hear of their experiences. My partner is Algerian and we are considering moving there. Before I do, I'd like to learn as much as possible in terms of other people's experiences - what it's like, the pro's/cons etc.

As a western woman who doesn't speak arabic or french I was wondering what type of employment opportunities there might be and whether there would be any difficulties (other than the usual ones of moving to a new country)!

Would love to hear your perspective!

Cheers, Jen

RSA
  12/18/2006 04:29 EST

Hi Jen

I am a 26yr old South African living in Algiers.
I spoke no french or arabic when arriving and managed just fine.
Most shops have someone who speaks a minimum level of English and are quite happy to assist you.

If i have to be honest this is not the ideal country to live in, unless you are here for work reasons. Entertainment is scarce, food is poor quality, choice at supermarkets is extremely limited and driving can be a nightmare.

On the positive side, algerians are extremely friendly and welcoming culture. There is a decent expat community and if you makes friends that way, the experience can be alot better.

In terms of work, i know the english/french language schools are always looking for english teachers. They seem to have a shortage as they keep asking me.

Otherwise not sure what else to tell you, of course my experience are my own and others may feel differently.
But in general not the easiest country to live in but certainly has its pro's.

Jay

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jenfr
  12/18/2006 18:29 EST

Hi Jay,

Thanks for the honesty, I have to admit that I've found it hard to find information in Algeria, especially from a western perspective. For me, it would not be moving there for employment but for my partner and to raise a family (I'm Australian). I appreciate that it might be difficult although I have lived in a number of different places so am used to cultural differences. My partner's family also lives there, so not sure if this would make a difference in terms of contacts etc?

Can I ask if you're there with a partner and family? I am very interested in teaching Englilsh and in getting involved in human rights work, if possible. Not sure if you can provide much advice on this. Also, what is cost of living lilke. It's hard to tell what kind of life we could enjoy if only one person was working, or if I taught English on a part time basis.

If it's easier, my email address is [email protected] and would really like to get in contact with you for more advice.

Thanks, Jennifer

dasamitabha
  12/18/2006 18:47 EST

Hi Jennifer, I agree to some of what Jay said although there are some others which I have experienced differently. People are definitely friendly here although they are religious and orthodox but so far I have met most of the nice ones and as long as you stay in decent zones, its pretty calm here. I have been here for 4 months now and due to my stay in French Africa for a while, I do speak some French, but being an Indian, you can rest assured about the level. However, contrary to what Jay said, I never found too many people speaking English, in fact in small shops and all, I find many who dont even speak French. Common people in Algeria would have about 60% speaking French, but in Office circles its almost as high as 90% with a 25% office going community also having some knowledge of English. Work wise, I really cannot comment, but I feel getting an English teacher's job is not gonna be tough. But whether they look for a bilingual profile is something I am not sure of. Jay is also pretty correct about entertainment as it rarely exists and if it does, is pretty tainted. Unfortunately, I have not been in touch with the expat community much and would actually love to be a part of it.
If you want to know anything more, drop in a message.

jenfr
  12/19/2006 15:54 EST

Hi, thanks for the information, I certinaly appreciate that people's experiences may be different so it's good to hear from you about yours. I'm hoping that I can intensively learn Algerian Arabic (I'm starting already, but it is hard, especially in London!).

I'm not really that fussed about entertainment as I'm sure that it's nothing like London or Australia, but I can live with that. I want to be able to mix with both locals and ex-pats.

What about cost of living... is it possible to say how this compares to somewhere like London? I imagine that salaries are a lot lower (especially for teaching English) but I also imagine that housing and day to day leaving is fairly reasonable? For example, how much does it cost to live comfortably (nice home etc) each month with expenses etc?

I was surprised to learn that food is not so good, is that your experience? Would you also recommend living in Algiers or somewhere else? As you can see, I have lots of questions!

Thanks, Jennifer

dasamitabha
  12/19/2006 19:47 EST

Hi Jen,
YOU ARE LEARNING ARABIC???? thats really some news and I am sure its not gonna be easy. Good Luck to you.
As far as living costs are concerned, its noway comparable to London or Australia. (Well London is anyway killer), here you have different classes of things and unless you only buy European products there are substitutes (don't forget the Chinese are already here). In a whole, life is much cheaper compared to Europe. Appartments will vary drastically from locality to locality and a 2-3 BR flat in a decent locality with security and all will cost you between 75,000DA to 90,000 DA. I am not talking about lavish houses though but I am quite sure you will not be able to live in cheaper houses. Hydra, Ben Aknoun, Cheraga, Draria are considered to be decent places.
Apart from Algiers, I guess there is no other city worth living in, unless you are working for oil companies down south. Dont expect salaries like in London for sure. Here a 5-10 years experienced sales supervisor gets around 50-55,000 DA a month (recruited one last month).
Food wise, I dont have too many complaints, but basically there is hardly any Algerian food speciality. And restaurant culture isnt that developed. So Jay was mostly right. Anyway, if you are okay with some spicy food, you can always try the 3 Indian restaurants out there. (Most of their clients are from Indian and British Embassies)
But remember I do publicity for Indian restaurants for free...
Jay... how come we have still not managed to meet or even call up? Give me a call on 052970890 and lets catch up.
Drop me a line Jen, if u wanna know anything more.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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jenfr
  12/26/2006 20:09 EST

Hi,

Thanks for the information, you say that a decent apartment costs between 75,000DA to 90,000 DA. Is that a monthly cost or annual? I converted that amount from Algerian dinars to pounds and it was a lot more than I expected (over 600 pounds) is this right?

Thanks,
Jennifer

dasamitabha
  12/27/2006 15:29 EST

Hi Jen, well...the amount I mentioned is surely a monthly rental. I myself stay in a pretty average 2 bedroom apartment although I must admit it is well furnished and I pay 120,000 DA per month. And trust me, for expats it is pretty ordinary, but in a very secured location in Ben Aknoun.
Since I did some search when I came here first, if you want I can help you with some agent's contacts and you can try out with them. I also know a guy working with me who has a 3 storied house and he wants to rent out the 2nd and 3rd floors. Can't remember how many rooms in each floor, but i remember one unfurnished floor would be around 60,000 DA.Its in Bouchaoui near a lovely green forest area where people go jogging in the mornings.
Jay, why don't you throw some light over the rates in Algeria?
Till next time,
Das

jsevers
  1/14/2007 13:07 EST

Hi Jen,
my husband is algeria and I have visited several times but not lived there for an extended amount of time. We are presently builing a home there and hope to move there in the next year or so.
We are about an hour outside of Algiers and as mentioned work is limited. I am actually going to take an ESL course as I have heard teaching is a good option-although it doesn't pay great.
I found the food great- the markets have plenty of fresh veggies,fruit and fish. I speak french a bit so I manage ok.
Jill

Latifa163
  2/12/2007 13:59 EST

Hi Jen,

Don't worry I am sure that you will feel comfortable maybe not straight away-it will take some time- but am sure that your husband's family will support you!!!
I am French Algerian currently leaving in London but looking to go to Algeria for a few years ( Ihope) in order to find a job and study any possibilities of business.
Have you left London yet?
I am currently planning my move...slowly but surely!!!and I can give you some tips.
email me on [email protected]

Le me know

Ciao,

Latifa

souad
  2/12/2007 23:47 EST

Hi jen
I am a algerian background who live in sydney australia (lleft algeria since 1985).You know the rest.
I just arrived from oran algeria 2 weeks a go as i spend 2 months there.
As souad myself i can't survive in that country, the taxi speed 120 to 130 km whe i said please don't speed i will pay more just down a bit, it's verry scary, i was
scare everytime i went in a taxi.
Other things,no TOILET ouside in the city, if you need to use the bathroom u have to go to a restaurant to ASK or have lunch and use the bathroom :)
The ltoilet are verry poor (not clean)compared to my home sydney.
To make it sure my dailing jen, i can't survive there, go for a holiday to see the family and go back.
I am algerian and proud to be algerian but algeria need a lot of work for us to go there a stay for good.
Don't forgot it's my experience and maybe you will be fine.
Good luck

William RussellWilliam Russell
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William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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souad
  2/13/2007 00:22 EST

Jen
I am not sure if i explain myself properly on the email but if you need more infmormation i can call u as you know the international is not that expensive from australia.

souad

dasamitabha
  2/13/2007 13:25 EST

Well Souad, its sad to hear your version. Maybe you are now in a 'developed' country and so you find Algeria 'unliveable'. Being here for a while, I feel Algeria's major problem is in its people, especially the ones who have separate lifestyles when they are in Algeria and when they are abroad. I see so many who travel to Europe and Australia and still spit on roads, drive without manners and have minimum discipline and point their fingers at other Algerians. The small things dont bother me much coz I come from an equally 'underdeveloped' country called India. Or maybe becoz last winter I didnt find a toilet in Paris and was forced to enter a bar to relieve myself and the toilet was as filthy as the worst I have seen in AFRICA. The road to Oran is pretty decent and less than 120-130 is pretty unreasonable. After all in good roads in Europe we do go over 150 easily and logically. Thats the purpose of good roads.
Overall I feel that Algerians out of Algeria are the worst enemies of progress in Algeria as they feel that they are out of hell. The fact remains that Australia is 'not your home' and will never be so... You will remain an Algerian and maybe turn into someone who has lost her identity eventually. Sorry if i sound harsh, but when people talk like that against their own origins and do nothing to make it a better place, I feel its sad news for the country. Ciao and good luck.

souad
  2/13/2007 19:15 EST

Hi dasamitabha. As i said it was my experience.I am pround to be an algerian but i am australian citizen.I feel more australian than algerian in a way as i have 3 kids 22 18 and 12 all born in australia.My jealousy when i go to algeria compared to australia. is algeria is verry rich in gaz petrol etc.. compared to australia and we live better here.
My experience in algeria not only traffic or road etc..the country is rich but the people are verry poor.We need brain in algeria to rule the country.
I like bouteflika, hope he is stay there.
All i want from life is algerian people will not want to emigrate to france or other country etcc.
I have been all over the world france dubai jordan morroco egypt geneve london etcc
Any way if i made myself clear here or not and good luck
see u

jjam
  2/27/2007 07:15 EST

>>>>>>souad
Yes right as you said "algeria need a lot of work..."
but what its' not need for sure it's PEOPLE LIKE YOU !!!

jsevers
  3/21/2007 17:27 EST

Das,
As I read your e-mail to husband he smiled- Algeria needs more people like you! Algeria has improved so much in the last few years and I only see it getting better- tourism one day will be as strong Morocco and Tunisia and then perhaps more people will be prouder of their country. I think the young people of Algeria think that Europe is so much better but they don't realize what they have- close families and friends,fantastic weather,fresh food and a great culture.
I can't wait to return this year!
Jill

souad
  3/22/2007 15:11 EST

Hi Jill
I strongly beleive algeria is beautiful country, as you said we have the beach,sun the mountain, we have everything (including the country is rich, gaz petrol.:( but we have bad management or the truth we have a lot of big head like the general etc.. who they take money for their family and not give anything to the poor people, we put this way.
A lot of corruption in algeria everywhere.
to get a permission to build a house in sydney, will take from 4 to 8 weeks.
As in algeria without paying any corruption, will take a year.
Maybe not algiers, i am talking in the west, you can't do nothing without paying some corruption.
I feel sad and i can't do nothing to change this.
I still visit 2 times year but feel sad when i am there.
God protect them and hope for the best because i love country to be like dubai or europe, we just deram :)

vivpar
  4/9/2007 21:04 EST

Dear Mr/ Ms Das;

I have an opportunity to work in algiers. My main concern is standard of schooling & obviously safety of my family. My elder son (5yrs) would be starting primary education, the younger one (1 yr) has some time though. How is social life there.. Any desi community association.

This is first time my family would be leaving India, so I wish to be a little extra-cautious.
Thanks in advance for yr feedback

regds
Vivek

dasamitabha
  4/10/2007 10:13 EST

Hi Vivek,
good to hear from you. i have just moved out of Algeria about a month back, but i feel i know enough to share my views. Let me be very honest with you although I am sure u might not like or agree to some of these.
Schools in Algeria are not really great, but if u are going to tell me that schools in India are great, well, no one feels that outside India. We are in demand sometimes only because we work dirt cheap. Here you can find some American Schools where decent expatriates send their kids. There are also some French schools, but being a normal Indian, I am sure you would also feel that English education is 'deeper than french', something I dont believe in at all.
There are 2 Indian restaurants with 3 branches and an Indian population which interact from time to time. some of them are nice, some strange and most of them take sides for establishing themselves. Overall, its a decent community if you dont get too close... lol.
Law and order is a sure concern and I can assure you that it is many times better than India. You will see well dressed and well equipped police/gendarmerie every 1 km in the city and they look serious unlike indian police. Between October and March Algeria had 2 bomb explosions with around 4 casualties and Mumbai has had 7 with 29 casualties (I used to keep data those days)
If Algeria lacks anything, its decent evenings and amusement related nightlife, but hearing about your family and kids etc. I am sure you will hardly miss it much.
So overall, I feel if it a once in life time opportunity, there are no two ways about it. And Algeria in my rankings fall above India and Kazakhstan both.
If you need some more info u are welcome to write to me. Meanwhile, if u have an Orkut profile, u can add a community called 'Jaane tu club Algerie' which was started by us in those days... u will also get to know some other guys in Alger.
See ya
Amitabha

harmony
  4/28/2007 09:50 EST

Hello Jenfr,
I know your original post was a while back, but I thought I'd post a response anyway in the case you haven't made a decision yet and/or for other ladies thinking about moving here.
I am a US expat living in Algeria with my Algerian husband and our three kids. We have been here for four years this May.
I agree with most of what the other ladies have commented on above.
My best advice is to take an extended visit here before making such a decision. I don't know your age, but if you plan to have children with this man, you should be aware that you will not have the right/freedom to take them out of the country without your husband's authorization. Even, if you have legal custody. I know most ladies don't beleive thier husband is capable of denying his wife such a thing, but it happens. And, in my opinion, it is too great a risk. Life is hard here. The typical day for an Algerian women goes as follows:
Wake-up, Prepare coffee and breakfast, clean the house, cook lunch(most husbands come home for lunch), clean, relax, maybe coffee and snack, cook dinner, clean some more, retire for the evening. And it's true there are limited activities for entertainment. And please, also, keep in mind that the job market is pretty tough for Algerians. You really must own a business to make any real money. And as a business owner, your husband will probably work A LOT. So, you could quite possibly end up being very lonely most of the time.
Some other things...
The language barrier is not a big issue. You can hire a private teacher for cheap.
The rent, depending on where you live, is not 600 pounds a month.(If any of you girls are paying that, I am sure you are getting ripped off!) I'd say around 20000DZD a month.
You referred to your man as your partner. Are you not married? I ask because I don't know how hard it would be for you to get perminent residency here without being married. Probably very difficult. Anyway, if you or other ladies have questions, please contact me :)
Chow!

dasamitabha
  4/29/2007 01:51 EST

Dear Harmony, I felt I should respond to your mail. I strongly believe that a woman possibly understands a woman better and I agree with most of the things that you have said about women in Algeria. Its not a western country and yes, women stay home most of the time and do household activities and take pleasure from it, unlike in the states. So for a western woman, it might be very strange and contrary to women's liberation etc. and I believe you have a point as well. But then freedom is as perceived by an individual and although I believe it will be better for women if countries like Algeria open up more, I also feel that these are much more fundamental cultures where respect and family bondage are the basic fabric, something which is not easy for the western people to understand. Its all different and there is no value judgement here, but there is no reason why one culture needs to act like the other. If our friend Jennifer wants to live her life in her way, she cannot be forced to live her way like Algerian women ... I am sure of that. About her partner and all... well, i guess its her choice and she didnt really ask views/suggestions on that. But then, I know of some people who have married Algerians and have been pretty happy for that matter. I do know some also who are not happy, but I know many who married Americans and felt thats their greatest mistake ever.
You said 20,000 DZD as the rent for a flat???? Either u missed a zero or u stay somewhere in the desert, which is unlikely. But again, being an American, I am sure you would have managed some way out by some means or the other. Maybe the rules are different for Americans, like we get to see everywhere. I stayed in a 2 BR furnished flat in a very secured colony and paid 120k DZD... Knowing Americans, i dont believe they can stay in anything smaller than where I was put up, or they are really stingy. My maid was paid 9,000 DZD a month for cleaning the house, laundry and pressing. My house unfurnished would be easily around 80-85K DZD. Dont know where this 20 k comes from.
Anyway, we leave for jen to decide and I agree she should also come down once and check out herself.

souad
  4/30/2007 16:59 EST

Hello harmony
I agree with all the things you said,but at the end of you journey if you are happy with you partner that's all matter.I tryed to to go to algiers last year and stayed there to live for good but it was hard for me
i have a lot of friends(expacts) married algerian guys and they adjust but not everyone can do that.
I am algerian myself and i can't live in algeria,i know very independant and i don't want anyone to do stuff for me etc..
Algeria was good and more open in 1970-1980.
We have to wait for that day to come back.
Good luck to everyone

mahdiyyah
  5/15/2007 11:31 EST

Hi Jen,
I am an English woman of 34 years of age who is married to an Algerian and will be moving out there permenently in 7 weeks time. Are you still going out there, there already? May be nice to keep in touch.

rasmol
  5/20/2007 13:03 EST

dear miss
I be moving to algeria to live with my husband can you give me some opinions on schooling as my kids only speak english i am a graduate and what is the pro and cons of living in algeria one child is 6 and the other 13 and what kind of jobs can i apply for as i have graduated in sciences but willing to teacher english
many thanks
nabilah

dutch
  5/21/2007 10:03 EST

Hello to all the "girls" who are moving out to Algiers or to those already there.
my husband is Algerian and we lived in Algiers for 3 months( sept_dec 2005) and our children attended school. I am originally from Holland but have spend 12 years living in Holland and we have now been in France for 5. I am 36 years old. I had a lot of concerns before moving but it all worked out oké. Yes the traffic in Algiers is mad.. the facilities at the school (école cheikh Bouamama which has a primaire, collège and lycée and is located in the centre, children can follow classes in Arabic or in French) were basic.. shopping can be a nightmare if you are not used to markets etc. etc. but the peolpe were great , friendly and helpful .. climate pleasant, if slightly too humid at times and once outside Algiers itself the scenery is stunning. I speak French which helps ... to get about. We are due to go back end of August this year.. with the children re starting at the same school. They are all bi lingual.. but I have found the English speaking schools way to expensive for a large family like ourselves(we have 5 children) The eldest will be starting lycée this year. I would really like to hear from those of you who are out there already or are on their way.. mabye we can get together and exchange our experiences or just have a good old chat... you can contact me on [email protected]

hopeee
  5/28/2007 01:50 EST

hi ametabha ,,
you mentioned in your reply that there is french and american schools at algeria, actually iam looking for the address of these schools since iam will move to algeria next summer and iam really concerned about finding adecent and asecured english school for my two daughters , i visited algeria more than once and i didnt find any good school , can you please help me find the address for an english school , thank you
hope

dasamitabha
  5/28/2007 11:28 EST

Hi Hope,
while I stay no more in Algeria, i will still try to find out some information about the schools and revert back soon.
Abientot
Amitabha (thats the spelling even if its tough..lol)

hopeee
  5/30/2007 02:21 EST

hi amitabha,hi everybody,
i finally found the address for acambridge school at algeria it was in al biar but changed the address to bozraia it seems fine i will go to algeria june to see it , wish me luck .

hope

divyeshamipara
  5/30/2007 02:22 EST

Hi,

This is to das and others...

I have been offered a job with Ericsson (at Mobilis) via Connect44 in algers.

I am an Indian and will be there for initially 3 months and then depends on the extention.

Company pays 600 EUR for accomodation and 400 EUR for driver/car. Anything beyond 600 EUR I have to pay

Can I get decent furnished with kitchen 1 BHK is fine with me?

How about Indian Food? Well I can cook a little bit but not a chef.

Start date is 1 July.

Any information is helpful before I move.

Some info about the customs at immigration too.

I can be reached at [email protected]

Regards,
>> Divyesh A.

dasamitabha
  5/30/2007 05:54 EST

Hi Hope,
yes, that seems to be the only English medium school on which I could gather some info.
El Hourouf International school of Algiers, Opp University of Bouzareah, Tell:-021-798563/64, Fax:-021-798575.
It is afiliated by Cambridage Society of UK

I havent got much of a feedback on the same as Algerians rarely go for English education, but I wish u luck..
Amitabha

dasamitabha
  5/30/2007 11:56 EST

Hi Divyesh,
with 600 Euros, (abt 60,000 DA) u can get decent furnished accomodation for 1 BHK in any part of Alger. I just hope they have 1 bHK furnished flats. Or else, u can negotiate with unfurnished flat owners and they can get u basic furnishings and it will cost u half of that.
About food, you wont get Indian maids there, and although you can easily find Algerian maids its not fair to expect them to cook indian food, unless you can show them yourself. So if u insist on Indian food, you have Maharaja and Tajmahal restaurants or your own cooking skills to prepare or teach a local Algerian about Indian recipes. If you have further queries, you can contact me on [email protected] or on orkut profile http://www.orkut.com/Profile.aspx?uid=11902193731698373253

Good luck for Algeria trip...
Amitabha

divyeshamipara
  6/3/2007 23:48 EST

Hello Amitabha,

Thanks for the information. I am sure this will be helpful.

Thanks,
>> Divyesh A.

divyeshamipara
  6/3/2007 23:56 EST

Hi,

Does any one got contact details of real estate agents in Algers?

Or any website where we can find the appartment for rent etc.

Please pass it on.

Thanks in advance.

>> Divyesh A.

Zhorik
  6/18/2007 12:52 EST

Hi all
I am 29 y.o., Spanish, and thinking of moving with my wife to Algiers in a few months. We are currently living in Kazakhstan, so we are not afraid of the low comfort of certain places, but one thing we value above all is quality of life. This means, walking freely and safely at night, travelling around the country with no big troubles, having nice places to gather around on evenings...Can we get all these in Algiers? We are maybe going to visit in late July, any recommendations?
Thank you in advance, and thanks to this website for helping
J

Samirhyd
  6/29/2007 11:03 EST

I Agree with the fact that the rent in Algiers is quite expensive, To get a nice flat you should be paying more than 60000dzd, howver you decide to live outside the capital then the rent is much cheaper, i have seen a message taloking about 20000da, this is right but look for it in other city. For ladies life is not that easy, I am Algerian from samll town called Setif and live with my wife in another city, she found it very boring as there is no where to spend our spare time. English is an issue especially in small towns and it is not that easy to get a job except if you are in Algiers where many multinational companies are already present. One advise , visit the place, spend sometimes , you will love the people but I am sure the decision will be easy!

trufasuk
  9/7/2007 04:52 EST

Hi Divyeshamipara,

I'm living in Alger since november 2006. My husband is also working at Ericsson with Atm. I don't know what contract did you sign, but we have a driver and a car and we don't have to pay it separate. And for the house you have the people from administration and the HR to help you.
And prepare yourself for the late, late meetings.Iknow if my husband have a meeting at atm starting at 5 pm, he will come home about 8-9 pm.
About the life here, what can i say. Miss the nice cofe shops, miss the variety of nice restaurants, miss the way i was use to dress, miss the big hipermarkets, ... miss a lot of things. But are olso good parts. The beach (it is recomended to use the one in Sheraton hotel), the weather, Ericssin ex-pats communion. I don't know if you are a man or a woman, so i don't know if you are intrested about the lady's day that we are doing it from time to time.
If you want to know more about it, give me a message at [email protected].
Hope to hear from you and good luck

catherino
  11/21/2007 13:04 EST

I've been in Algeria for around 6 weeks now with my Algerian husband, living in Annaba in the East of Algeria.

The facts of this place are, entertainment is definitely non exisitent unless you count the cinema showing Jaws, but get satellite TV and on MBC2 you get access to 24 hours of up to date movies in English for free!

Life seems to be centred around the family, so embrace that, its the best way you'll learn Algerian and about the culture.

Flats are no where near 120,000 DA or whatever else someone said! I have a very large 3 bedroomed flat in the centre of Annaba which is safe, clean and comfortable not to mention furnished and we pay 24,000 DA a month (around 170 GBP)

On a practical note you should remember that mains water only comes on for a couple of hours in the morning, so remember to store water for use throughout the day, unless your flat has a reservoir like ours has.

You could probably get by without speaking French or Algerian if you shop more at the superettes rather than market stalls or smaller shops, as they state their prices before you buy things. If you go to the smaller shops, prices aren't marked and so I have had people mark up items when they have found out I am English.

Don't worry about terrorism or problems with being English. The Algerian people are extremely friendly and welcoming and try and speak English with you when they find out you are English.

As for jobs, teaching English is definitely your best bet. There are a few Language schools in Algeria, one in Annaba and Algiers for sure and they prize the fact that you're mother tongue English. Your best bet is to either get some teaching experience before you leave or to get a TEFL or ESOL qualification.

Bureaucracy is a major problem here. If you need any paperwork from the town hall or the police, etc, have patience. They have papers for everything and you're likely to need to get a paper to obtain another paper!

Above all, have patience with life in Algeria and if you're with you Algerian husband don't worry! If he's anything like mine he'll do his best to support you whilst you get used to life in Algeria. Its not so bad here, don't listen to the media prejudices!!

dasamitabha
  11/22/2007 06:04 EST

Dear Catherino,
I have not been writing to this forum for a while, but i have been reading all the posts. Your posts normally are very pleasant to read and i agree to most of the views u come up with. I couldnt help but respond as your write up had a mention of house rent of '120 k like some have said before' and i guess i wrote that figure sometime back. Trust me, my figure was based on factsand I was paying 110 k for my appartment (2 BR fully furnished) in Ben Aknoun. But theres a lot of difference between Annaba and Alger and in places like Hydra and Rouiba in Alger itself. I liked a flat in Hydra but cudnt take it up as the landlord asked for 140k and it was not as well furnished as the one i took up finally. I also assumed that white people would prefer to live in better places than what an Indian would be staying in. All other views of yurs are similar to mine anyway. Meanwhile, I am currently staying in Ghana and in Kumasi, which is the second largest city of Ghana after Accra, the capital. I am living in an area pretty dead and i have a 4 bedroom independent villa for 900$ per month. In Accra it would be minimum 1500$.
Wil write to this forum from time to time..

dasamitabha
  12/12/2007 11:00 EST

Hello to all the nice people in this forum and living, lived or will live in Algeria. Some of you might know me when I used to write regularly in this forum and some of you will not know me. I have heard of the blasts n Algeria yesterday and was just wishing that all of you are safe along with your families. I will love to hear one liners from some of you and will be relieved to know that all of you are indeed unhurt in this abominable acts of terrorism. Thanks and good luck from DAS

mahdiyyah
  12/13/2007 06:24 EST

Dear Dasamitabha, Thank you for your concern. My family and I are well thank God but the second bomb exploded quite close to the school where I work and a number of our students lost their lives. I also send out my best wishes to everyone and hope that you are all safe.

lisa33
  1/6/2008 07:18 EST

hi just found this forum,i am a english women married to a algerian i have just returned to live back in the uk with my family after living in algeria for 2 years. my advice is don't go there to live hoilday is fine but living no, the cost of living in algeria is to expensive,the health system is horrible, i gave birth in algeria in july 07 and i have never in my life had a experience like it and hope good i will never have it again,most of algerians are very friendly but there are some who are not, you have to deal with pervets because you are a western women, you have people shouting abuse at you in the street at you because you are western and they think you have lot's of money even though you are in the same boat as them, my eldest son is 9 and is british he had to go to a private school but you have to be careful about your children being kidnapped for money because they are western, as a whole i will return to visit my family there for a hoilday but to live there again no .

dasamitabha
  1/6/2008 16:41 EST

Hmmm&.to begin with a very Happy New Year to everyone in this forum. A special wish for all the familiar names like Mahdiyya, Catherino, Jay, Jill and so many others who have been active in this forum.
Now lets go back to the message from Lisa which prompted my response. Oh! I love and hate these messages equally as they make my testosterone flowing for real but at the same time I feel sad how mean people can be at times and wonder what should be our response to them.
So Lisa, you said most of Algerians are very friendly but there are some who are not- wow! As if everyone in your country are very friendly. Having traveled to 26 countries in my life, I have never found one single country where there arent some not so friendly people and neither UK nor Algeria is exception to this. Talking about perverts, I can assure everyone that there are more in UK than in Algeria for various reasons. I am in Ghana these days and they have just caught a British guy for a pedophile case. Their possible perversion towards western woman is not their doing; its the western worlds great projection of moral values in their developed cultures which creates such an impression about women. SO in order to change this, Algerians have less to do and west have more to do in projecting women as less immoral. I agree that this is also about ignorance and lack of knowledge but that is applicable both ways.
Your giving birth might have been an exceptional case, but my Welsh girlfriend for 6 years (resident of London since birth) has given me enough instances of UK being among the worst in terms of medical facilities.
In the end, I loved that part of your concern, about children getting kidnapped for money. How many children have u seen getting kidnapped for money in Algeria so far? I havent heard of any, and even if I did, it would not have said that children get kidnapped frequently. Why the general people feel that white people have more money is simply because white people tried to buy out everything with their money for long. I am amazed at the attitude of white people like you. You come to someone elses country, capture their land, treat them as slaves and when you are forced to leave, you still want to come for vacations. 20 years back white people didnt need to kidnap anyone in Algeria, they just lined them up and tested their nuclear weapon range on them.
The tremendous urge in white people to do something different makes them behave like you. Marry someone form a different culture, be it blacks, Muslims, Asians or Indians and then compare life with what it was, get dissatisfied and take your spouse to your country and raise the issues of immigration that you yourself did not support your whole life. But there is no way out, as a white person you cannot live in a third world country, so you have to take the third world partner to your own country. The real test is when you love someone from the third world, marry him/her and can still bear to live in their country, the same which is a third world just because the developed countries made it a third world country.
Thankfully, not all are like you and I have encountered numerous white people who are very nice and are ashamed of their pathetic past, which must be glory for people like you. I have seen all kinds from the white world and while in 2005 someone called me a black dog I have also had some European friends endanger their lives for my safety. And this only proves that good and bad are there in all countries, be it UK or Algeria.
Sorry for this strong response, but I felt that the comments in Lisas message were derogatory and insulting for someone elses culture. I cannot tolerate anyones insult of anothers culture and country and thus my reaction. For all the sane people out there, my apologies for the overreaction.
Regards,
Das

lisa33
  1/7/2008 06:25 EST

hi but i did not make my comments more clearer, sorry.
i loved living in algeria in the first instance it is a beautiful country,but i lived in a very small community where tempers can run high due to the price of food water, electric, and gas situation.in the beginning i felt fine going out on my own to the shops things like that, but then one day a car pulled up next to me and my son and tryed to drag us both into the car, so sorry but something like that happens to you and you start to think more diffrently, i have been sexualy assulted on a bus and was told it is my own fault because i did not have my husband with me but as you can understand you can not always go places with your spouse due to work and everything else but i did not in think anything like that could happen on a crowded bus. i have been followed on more than one time by men who i have said no to and they didn't like it this is just when you are out shopping.
i loved algeria i had a house job family but when you are pregnant and you have someone say to you they will kill your baby and then start laughing my own feeling was it is time for me to leave. i am sorry if i upset anyone with my first post i did not mean any hard feeling to anyone but my experiences have not been to good,maybe the area i don't know

yasminiya
  4/7/2008 12:20 EST

Hello Lisa

Just read your message which sounds quite sad. I would just like to ask you one question if you don't mind. "Did you go to Algeria as a Muslim revert wearing hijab or as a regular westerner?" I too am thinking of living in Algeria in the future but was a bit daunted by your message. I have four children, the eldest, my daughter is ten years old and the youngest my eight month old son. I have been married to an Algerian man for nearly 13 years.

umsosofati
  6/22/2008 18:58 EST

hello I have been living in the united states since I was five. My husband is from algeria and we are looking for a safe place to raise our kids with similar religious views. My husband has a sister living there but can you please tell me how daily life is there, medical care, how easy is it for the kids to adapt. IN dollars how is the cost of living. please any answer will be welcomed my email is [email protected]

mahwashajaz
  9/20/2008 08:48 EST

Hi.

I'm looking for the current cost of living in Algeirs which includes:

1-2 bed, furnished luxury apartment/suite/condo in a decent, secure locality.

Cost of perishable and non-perishable lifestyle articles such as groceries, clothes, accessories etc.

Cost of transportation (taxes and duties on vehicles, price of a good SUV maybe).

All these prices shuold preferably be in USD.

Thanks a lot! Need an urgent reply!

alimotaz
  2/24/2010 12:24 EST

Hi Jen. My name is Motaz Ali ( Indian in New Delhi ) and I should be coming to Algeria shortly with my family. I have 2 kids of 10 years & 8 years. I wish to know about English School in Algiers. Is there any English school and if so, till which class/standard it has education for. What is the total strength of the school, fees, syllabus, etc. Appreciate your quick reply on the same please. Many thanks in advance.

madge
  4/10/2010 07:51 EST

hi very interesting 2 read your veiws this is the reason i worry about a permanent move 2 algeria holidays can b lonley and restrictive so i can imagine full time if u r back in uk it would b nice 2 talk as marraige 2 an algerian as a british woman has its ups and downs even in the uk

helen123
  4/25/2010 17:53 EST

Hello, I was shocked to read Lisas experiences - I would be really interested to find out where this all happend??? I have stayed in Algiers many times and have not had any problems, I would not attempt to get on the overcrowded buses or go out to many places on my own as I can only speak very basic arabic/french mix! I would say that it is best to always go out with someone I think the common thing is that you will get attention from men- try to avoid this by wearing simple and decent clothing. In the UK and other places wearing jeans and a nice top with heels is normal in the day but its not really the case in algeria, and men will try to talk to you if you look like you have made an effort to dress or showing too much skin. Women only dress up for parties or family events when men and women socialise separately or if you go for dinner with your husband. You can find many beautiful places to visit, roman ruins, city garden, lovely beaches and fun swimming pools and some nice parks but all need a car to get to. Also again not really good to go on your own - its not common for a woman to go out on their own for the day ( school run and trips to family or shops is fine on your own) you will always find a member of the family that can come with you. I really like the Algerian people so happy with life and happy people in general, most are lovely and friendly and honest however sometimes you will meet a sneeky one who will try and charge you much more because they think all english people are rich! I have recently tried driving and it is hard at first but get the confidence to do it as it will really help to have freedom. There is going to be a big supermarket just near central algiers which will be great when it opens, seen the building and it is hugh...right by the sea, then further along near the hilton there is the area that will be developed to a commerical area in about 3 years. Hydra has some lovely cafe bars and a Mango such a Europe vibe there!! I feel that algeria has a lot to offer someone who has family there, life is different and the change is difficult at first ( no high street, lack of choice for some items, less convience food, no internet shopping, getting use to living in a muslim country, missing friends and family, how everything official takes ages, standard of living is less in someways) but all this can be balanced against Great food, fresh veg/meat. Lovely icecream and cakes, Lovely people, children growing up in a innocent Muslim environment compared to the uk, cheap utility bills and petrol and I dont know much about this but I have heard that the schooling system is quite good and a lot of university spaces. Saying this when I first went to algeria I was bored and not that impressed but as with everything put a little in and get a little out. I am waiting for my husband to get his UK visa if not I will be in Algeria next month!! Nice to hear from any women married to an algerian!!

sachinsharma
  11/21/2015 01:34 EST

I agree with dasamitabha.

madame4nice
  5/3/2016 08:39 EST

i am origin of south africa but i am now in Nigeria i am planing to coming are living in algeria ,i am looking for honest person in algeria who can be my business partner because i want to move to algeria invest a good business in algeria ,if you are capable to help me in algeria as my partner you can contact me per via emaill address [email protected]

ali888
  6/5/2016 08:23 EST

First of all without Arabic and French its very difficult to get a job and communicate. Very few people know English. As ur with Algerian associate there should not be any problem in staying in Algeria. Things are very slow and not very easy to get . Best is u can startup some business in here with your partner.
Things dont work as easily here as in UK or any advanced country.

jennykebir
  6/8/2016 09:27 EST

Hi Jen, I have lived in Algeria for 1 0 years and if you would like to email me for more information I would be happy to give you my opinion and experiences. [email protected]

Murphy1
  6/23/2016 12:52 EST

Hi Jen

If you do manage to move to Algeria and are interested in teaching English in a Native English environment, contact me: [email protected]

loicms
  9/18/2018 20:00 EST

Although i agree about the difficulty of the healthcare system, this resources was great help in helping me locate and book an appointment with a doctor that at least spoke fluent English: https://www.dabadoc.com

Sarahyusra
  9/19/2018 07:15 EST

Salaam and hello. I am American. I have lived here almost 2 years with my husband.

It is very difficult here when you do not speak the language. I had studied standard Arabic (Fus ha) for two years before I moved here and still struggle daily. I do speak a little French and a little Derja (the dialect) as well but it's still hard. The main thing being if you do not have a good accent with any of these languages the locals in the shops will sometimes not take your words into context and they don't know what you are saying. I have literally said the same exact word/phrase as my friend who is Algerian, however her accent is Algerian and they will acknowledge what she says. I do believe that some of this is due to just playing around on their part. I mention this because it has become a GREAT source of frustration for me. I would suggest you learn some important and everyday phrases from your partner and practice for if/when you move.

With that being said, I do shop on my own and I do take public transportation on my own as well after a year. (Taxis/Bus system)

I also have only found that a SMALL minority have a basic English level and that's more of the University aged students. A lot of the older people only have a good grasp on the Derja dialect and are not even fluent in French or Fus ha Arabic.

It's pretty easy to learn what the shops are because of French being similar to English.

I have found that the language barrier has been a source of acute depression at times for myself and one of the hardest aspects of moving to and living in Algeria.

I do teach English here in a private English school. That would be the only job opportunity that you would really have. You will have to have residency and a work permit to work, too.

There are many luxuries that you will give up moving to a third world country but as long as you keep in mind that you are in Algeria and not the UK, you should be fine. There is a pretty big expat community full of UK women who live here, many having lived here for 10+ years. Be aware though that many of them do not enjoy living here and can and will drag you down about life in Algeria. Just be cautious about who you friend. I've not had good experiences with them. (Not just UK though. There are a few other American's and women from Australia here as well.)

I don't know if you are religious, or a Muslimah even, but if you are and you are used to being active in your local Muslim community in the UK, be prepared to worship on your own here. Women here do not usually go to the Masjids except on holidays and Jummah and even then, the entire khutbah is in Arabic and I've not found any sisters that really speak English at he masjids.

SO...despite all of that...

I love Algeria! It's become my second home and I can't imagine never having lived here. I love it with all my heart and the Algerians. I have been treated so well so far and the hospitality of the Algerians themselves is bar none.

The pace of life is slow and the quality of life, for me is excellent. I love the freshness of the food (not talking fast food) and the easy living ideals regarding slowing down and smelling the roses so to speak. Although the fact that it takes forever to get anything done here can be frustrating. LOL.

I for one enjoy life here and really only find the language barrier the most difficult thing EVER. I feel isolated most days because of it. I'm also a chatty person and I love to talk so that could be a big part of my problem.

Anyway, I suggest researching all you can about Algeria before you move and try to prepare yourself as much as possible.

Good luck!

naser
  6/9/2019 02:50 EST

well done jjam, im proud of you ,
nasser

naser
  6/9/2019 02:56 EST

hi mate

600 euro is mote than enough to pay for a furnished flat
nasser

naser
  6/9/2019 02:59 EST

hiya
can i ask you why you have choosen algeria pls
nasser

naser
  6/9/2019 09:27 EST

hi jen
i think you be alright ,first , it depends on what job you be doing here , if youre a qualified engineer or have studied in the uni for many years , youre more likely to get a good wages ,but if youre a shop assistant or a cashier you better stay there and forget all about algeria ,otherwise you be starving before you know it lol , your husband should know better cause hes a native ,
any questions ?

naser
  6/9/2019 10:05 EST

hi jay
am nasser am a native am 51 ? I been reading your views , i have to say this , life in algeria depends on your finances and how much money you can spend ,
because everything here is bloody expensive and unaffordable for the average salary ppl, but you have a lavish life style if you re well paid , its all about money as i said ,
nasser

naser
  6/9/2019 10:12 EST

hi
i dont know if youre a man or a woman,
there are places to entertain yourself like pubs and clubs in algiers ,
you just have to ask ppl or look online
, sablette is one of them , i have met an american couple overthere and we talked for an hour they are eric and margo unfortunatly i didnt get their contact number

vassili
  8/10/2019 09:42 EST

a new private school has opened this year , it's called Central School Algiers / [email protected] /
/http://www.centralschoolalgiers.com /
they teach the Algerian curriculum as well as the British curriculum , they also employ some British teachers i think , i have seen that they use data projectors in class and they have a pretty impressive laboratory for those of you who were asking

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