An Expat Talks about Living in Bangalore, India

What is the name of the city or town that you are reporting on?

Bangalore

How long have you lived there?

2010-2012 & 2020

What activities, clubs and organizations would you recommend to newcomers to help them meet others?

In 2010 we moved from New Zealand to Bangalore for my wife to take up a teaching role, along with us we brought our youngest son who was 9 at the time. We enrolled him in Trio World School (now Trio World Academy) where my wife was teaching. The school was a lot like being part of a large extended family, friendships were forged that have lasted till today and I expect beyond. At the time Trio being a International School following the Cambridge curriculum was an excellent fit and provided an incredible foundation for our son's future. Today Trio offers Cambridge and IB Curriculum's at Trio World Academy, ICSE Indian curriculum at Trio World School and world class kindergarten care at Trio Tots. I would absolutely recommend this school to parents wanting to educate their children in Bangalore.

In terms of religious, racial, economic and cultural diversity, are the people of this city or town diverse? Are they accepting of differences? Describe.

Bangalore is like every other part of India, diverse in its culture, religions and peoples, many languages, extraordinary festivals and a vibrancy that makes every day exciting and fascinating.

What are the main industries in this city? What types of career opportunities commonly exist? How do most people find new jobs?

Word of mouth is a common way of finding work, being aware when you are meeting at ex-pat events or with locals to ask about work in your chosen field.

In general, what are peoples' priorities in this city? For example, do lives revolve around work, family, socializing, sports, etc.?

Bangalore is a large city which today is heralded as the IT capital of India, its a nice place to live, friendly people, a vibrant cultural environment. As with any city of this size you will find somewhere a supportive group of people with interests similar to your own. I am an avid nature photographer and I have quickly gathered around me people with information and interests willing to share their experiences. Indians are often willing to include ex-pats in their lives with a shared interest in food or other things. Getting invited to Indian Weddings, Engagement parties etc is common and you are feted as special.

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If a friend of yours was thinking of moving to this city or town from far away, what other advice would you give them.

Surround yourself with positive people, get your support from them should you need it. India is at times challenging, exciting and in its own way crazy but if you are willing to be open to the differences then you will be rewarded with experiences way beyond what you would expect. I love India which is why we have returned here for a second time.