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India: Trying to decide if I should relocate to Bangalore:
Hi,
I answered a lot of these issues in posts to Vuolle on this same forum. I've just finished a 6month assignment in Bangalore, I'm from the UK, and I don't regret a thing, except perhaps the stereotypical misconceptions that I arrived with. So, let me help you avoid the same thing....
-- could I bring my dog & cat safely (no kids just pets)
>> See my answer to Vuolle's posting. Technically yes, but stressful journey from the US and you won't be able to let them out on the street or off the leash safely, so if you have a big dog that could be an issue.
-- is the medical care good should I get sick
>> Very good - again, see my answer to Vuolle's posting. If you're worried about Delhi belly, as long as you're careful it shouldn't be a rpoblem, if it is, every corner pharmacist is geared up to help you. it's cheap and reliable. Before I go back I have booked in for a full healthcheck at one of the hospitals because it's so much cheaper than the UK
-- I've read that most people have helpers like cooks, people to clean, sometimes a driver -- is that true and what is the cost?
>> True, they are there if you want them, most people have a daily maid. A maid for 2 hours a day, 6 days a week, cook breakfast and dinner, clean, wash pots, etc will cost you around $20 per month (yes, that does say twenty dollars per month). Don't plan on driving yoursefl, traffic is too scary for westerners. Dead easy and cheap to get around in taxis or auto-rickshaws. If you buy a car, you can get a driver to come for 2 hours a day to drive you around in it, clean it, etc, and that will be around $40pcm.
-- is it expensive/difficult to buy a used car?
>> not expensive, no, difficult, maybe - everything is negotiable, so find a friendly local and get them to do the haggling for you. But really don't suggest driving it yourself. a 2 wheeler is more practical if you really need your independence.
-- is the pollution/dust bad?
>> yes, another reason you need a cleaner - dust settles everywhere
-- what is monsoon season like? does it rain constantly every day and flood constantly?
>> (Speaking of the past 6 months) In BLR during july-ish and october-ish it rains hard for around an hour at 5pm every other day or so. Yes it floods, but people deal with it and carry on as normal. Generally BLR has the nicest climate in India, not too hot, not too cold, fairly predictable rains but not too much of them.
- I read that there are lots of pubs with good beer -- is that true?
YES!!! BLR is a top town for nightlife, was really pleasantly surprised! PLaces like Cosmo village, Spinn, I-bar, etc are great, safe, friendly, very cosmopolitan and also get plenty of ex-pats (if that's what you're after).
-- what is the water situation -- meaning can I a long shower?
>> no supply problem, but most homes have a geyser to heat the water which wil mean a limited supply of hot water before you have to heat it again, can get about 15mins out of my geyser.
-- how often does the power go out -- frequently?
>> Yes, but get an appt with 100% backup and you won't even notice. Most expats will be able to afford a nice appt with such facilities. e.g. I live in a nice part of town, 2 bedfurnished flat, security, 100%backup, elevator, etc - about $400 pcm.
My advice, FWIW... If you are the type of person who enjoys a challenge, likes meeting people and seeing different things, you will have the time of your life! India is wonderful, choatic, scary and fascinating all at once. You'll experience things you couldn't even imagine in the US, both good and bad.
If you prefer a clean regulated environment with everything in it's place and running on time, if you prefer things to be predictable and orderly, sterile and 'nice' then you will probably feel uncomfrotable here. Western food is available, but you should be prepared to change your diet somewhat. South Indian food is flavourful, but not hot, but will def be more spicy than you'd get at home (think tex-mex if you're not experienced Indian).
hope this helps with your decision. if you have any other questoins, glad to help.
Ali
India: Health care in Bangalore:
Hi,
Do you have special health care needs or is this just for general health?
A very sensitive Swiss friend of mine just gave birth in a regular hospital here (Mallya) and mother and baby did perfectly fine!
There are a number of large hospitals in Bangalore, some of which are world class teaching hospitals (particularly good neurosurgery one I believe). There are also some free government run ones for the poor. You basically pay for all healthcare, so you get what you pay for.
If you're after general health care facilities, causualty, etc, you'll be fine. The regular hospitals are competent and safe, if a little rundown by 'western' standards, but there are good doctors here and the average street corner pharmacist is pretty competent too.
FYI I just got a stress fracture on my foot x-rayed, examined and strapped up for around $10USD, took about 45 mins and they were all very nice about it.
What you tend not to get is the TLC that you'd experience at home. Health professionals are functional and practical and aren't used to being challenged or asked questions, but they do know their stuff.
With regard to your dog question, Kris was right. Most accomodation in BLR is apartment based, few gardens in town. There are a lot of stray dogs, so you won't easily be able to let them off the lead to run round the park, for example. If you bring them then I'd suggest you try to find larger farm style accomodation outside of the city, but then your commute into work could be a pain!
Generally Bangalore is a nice city. It's probably the easiest intro to India you can imagine. It's got a good climate, is relatively affluent, has some modern western style shops, restaurants etc (if that's what you're looking for). Yes it's noisy, chaotic and you can't drink the water, but there are few beggars and as a single white woman I've neer been hassled by men or anything like that.
FYI I don't take any anti-malaria precautions here, don't know anyone that's ever had it, but thats your choice. Have started taking them now for a trip to Rajasthan soon. In six months I've only had an upset stomach twice, and for less than 24 hours each, prob get the same in the UK to be honest! You just need to be sensible.
You should have a great time! Good luck!
India: How to find work in Bangalore?:
A good place for finding IT jobs in Bangalore is the Wednesday Times of India, it has a jobs section 'Accent' (I think). Also see www.timesjobs.com
Indian work culture is very meritocratic so you get the plum jobs by having the right paper qualifications, not necessarily the right experience. Also be aware that an average ad for a S/W engineer will receive at least 2,000 responses. Given this, you might be better off being proactive and targeting companies directly.
I don't really have a feel for how open an Indian company would be to taking on expats, I was transferred and have no problem. they'll probably assume that you want a lot more money than they're able to pay, so make your expectations very clear upfront. As a culture they are extremely hospitable and welcoming.
As for will you get ripped off - probably! it pays to hook up with a savvy local as soon as possible. Food is all fixed price, so that won't be a prob. Accomodation is very negotiable. Do your homework and find a friendly real estate agent. Normally you'll have to commit to stay for minimum of 10 months, they may even ask for rent in advance. The longer term you can commit to and the more cold cash you can offer upfront, the lower the price can become. Also try to remove as many middle men as possible in any negotiation, they all take their cut and price rockets up.
Everything is done by word of mouth which can be very frustrating when you're trying to set up, but do persevere!
Good luck!
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