Sunday, October 31, 2010

Jersey, Saint Helier - Cost of Living

The economy of Jersey is largely driven by international financial services & legal services, which accounted for 53% of total GVA in 2007. Other sectors include construction, retail, agriculture, tourism and order fulfillment, such as internet based selling.

Saint Helier is one of the twelve parishes of Jersey and is the capital of the Island (although Government House is situated in St. Saviour). The urban area of the parish of St. Helier makes up most of the largest town in Jersey.

Saint Helier has an overall cost of living index which equates it with high cost of living locations. The overall cost of living index is comprised of the prices for defined quantities of the same goods and services across all 13 Basket Groups.

The latest cost of living rank for each of the 13 Basket Groups is now available.

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Japan, Tokyo - Cost of Living

The economy of Japan is the second largest in the world, after the United States at around $5 trillion USD in terms of nominal GDP and third after the United States and China when adjusted for purchasing power parity. Banking, insurance, real estate, retailing, transportation, telecommunications and construction are all major industries. Japan has a large industrial capacity and is home to some of the largest, leading and most technologically advanced producers of motor vehicles, electronic equipment, machine tools, steel and nonferrous metals, ships, chemicals, textiles and processed foods. The service sector accounts for three quarters of the gross domestic product.

Tokyo is the seat of the Japanese government. Tokyo is one of the three world finance command centers, along with New York and London. Tokyo has the largest metropolitan economy in the world. Tokyo is a major international finance center, houses the headquarters of several of the world's largest investment banks and insurance companies, and serves as a hub for Japan's transportation, publishing, and broadcasting industries.

Tokyo has an overall cost of living index which equates it with high cost of living locations. The overall cost of living index is comprised of the prices for defined quantities of the same goods and services across all 13 Basket Groups.

The latest cost of living rank for each of the 13 Basket Groups is now available.

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Jamaica, Kingston - Cost of Living

The economy of Jamaica is a mixed economy with both state enterprises and private sector businesses. Major sectors of the Jamaican economy include agriculture, mining, manufacturing, tourism, and financial and insurance services. Tourism and mining are the leading earners of foreign exchange.

Kingston is the capital and largest city of Jamaica. Kingston, as the capital, is the financial, cultural, economic and industrial centre of Jamaica.

Kingston has an overall cost of living index which equates it with middle cost of living locations. The overall cost of living index is comprised of the prices for defined quantities of the same goods and services across all 13 Basket Groups.

The cost of living rank for each of the 13 Basket Groups is now available.

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Italy, Rome - Cost of Living

The economy of Italy is the seventh-largest economy in the world and the fourth-largest in Europe, according to the International Monetary Fund. Italy belongs to the Group of Eight (G8) industrialized nations; it is a member of the European Union and OECD. The country is divided into a developed industrial north dominated by large private companies and an agricultural, state-assisted south.

Rome is the largest city and capital of Italy. The economy of Rome is characterized by the absence of heavy industry and is largely dominated by services, high-technology companies (IT, aerospace, defense, telecommunications), research, construction and commercial activities (especially banking), and the huge development of tourism are very dynamic and extremely important to its economy.

Rome has an overall cost of living index which equates it with high cost of living locations. The overall cost of living index is comprised of the prices for defined quantities of the same goods and services across all 13 Basket Groups.

The latest cost of living rank for each of the 13 Basket Groups is now available.

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Saturday, October 30, 2010

Italy, Milan - Cost of Living

The economy of Italy is the seventh-largest economy in the world and the fourth-largest in Europe, according to the International Monetary Fund. Italy belongs to the Group of Eight (G8) industrialized nations; it is a member of the European Union and OECD. The country is divided into a developed industrial north dominated by large private companies and an agricultural, state-assisted south.

Milan, is the capital of the region of Lombardia and of the province of Milan. Milan is one of the EU's and the world's major financial and business centres. Milan is also regarded as the true current fashion capital of the world.

Milan has an overall cost of living index which equates it with high cost of living locations. The overall cost of living index is comprised of the prices for defined quantities of the same goods and services across all 13 Basket Groups.

The latest cost of living rank for each of the 13 Basket Groups is now available.

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Israel, Jerusalem - Cost of Living

The economy of Israel, despite limited natural resources, has seen intensive development of the agricultural and industrial sectors over the past decades which has made Israel largely self-sufficient in food production, apart from grains and beef.

Jerusalem is the capital of Israel and its largest city. Historically, Jerusalem's economy was supported almost exclusively by religious pilgrims, as it was located far from the major ports of Jaffa and Gaza. Jerusalem's religious landmarks today remain the top draw for foreign visitors, with the majority of tourists visiting the Western Wall and the Old City. The government, centered in Jerusalem, generates a large number of jobs, and offers subsidies and incentives for new business initiatives and start-ups.

Jerusalem has an overall cost of living index which equates it with high cost of living locations. The overall cost of living index is comprised of the prices for defined quantities of the same goods and services across all 13 Basket Groups.

The latest cost of living rank for each of the 13 Basket Groups is now available.

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Isle of Man, Douglas - Cost of Living

The economy of the Isle of Man is a low tax economy with no capital gains tax, wealth tax, stamp duty, or inheritance tax and a top rate of income tax of 18%. Offshore banking, manufacturing, and tourism form key sectors of the economy.

Douglas (Manx: Doolish) is the capital and largest town of the Isle of Man. Douglas is home to the High Courts and the Isle of Man Government. The town serves as the Island's main hub for business, finance, shipping, transport, shopping, and entertainment.

Douglas has an overall cost of living index which equates it with high cost of living locations. The overall cost of living index is comprised of the prices for defined quantities of the same goods and services across all 13 Basket Groups.

The latest cost of living rank for each of the 13 Basket Groups is now available.

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Ireland, Dublin - Cost of Living

The economy of Ireland has transformed in recent years from an agricultural focus to a modern knowledge economy, focusing on services and high-tech industries and dependent on trade, industry and investment. Economic growth in Ireland averaged a (relatively high) 10% from 1995?2000, and 7% from 2001?2004. Industry, which accounts for 46% of GDP, about 80% of exports, and 29% of the labour force, now takes the place of agriculture as the country's leading sector.

Dublin is the largest city and capital of Ireland. The Economy of Dublin is centralised in the capital city of Ireland. As such, Dublin is the largest city and the country's main economic hub. Most government agencies and the machinery of government including the parliament are based there. Dublin is the focal point of Irish media and culture, the countries transportation networks are centred upon the city.

Dublin has an overall cost of living index which equates it with high cost of living locations. The overall cost of living index is comprised of the prices for defined quantities of the same goods and services across all 13 Basket Groups.

The latest cost of living rank for each of the 13 Basket Groups is now available.

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Friday, October 29, 2010

Iraq, Baghdad - Cost of Living

The economy of Iraq is dominated by the oil sector, which has traditionally provided about 95% of foreign exchange earnings. There have been attempts by the international community to improve and repair the infrastructure of Iraq in the aftermath of the 2003 invasion, when much was destroyed.

Baghdad is the capital of Iraq. Efforts have been devoted to the restoration and repair of badly damaged urban infrastructure.

Baghdad has an overall cost of living index which equates it with low cost of living locations. The overall cost of living index is comprised of the prices for defined quantities of the same goods and services across all 13 Basket Groups.

The latest cost of living rank for each of the 13 Basket Groups is now available.

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Iran, Tehran - Cost of Living

The economy of Iran is a mixture of central planning, state ownership of oil and other large enterprises, village agriculture, and small-scale private trading and service ventures. Its economic infrastructure has been improving steadily over the past two decades but continues to be affected by inflation and unemployment.

Tehran is the capital and largest city of Iran. Tehran is the economic centre of Iran. About 30% of Iran's public-sector workforce and 45% of large industrial firms are located in Tehran and almost half of these workers work for the government. Most of the remainder of workers are factory workers, shopkeepers, laborers, and transport workers.

Tehran has an overall cost of living index which equates it with middle cost of living locations. The overall cost of living index is comprised of the prices for defined quantities of the same goods and services across all 13 Basket Groups.

The latest cost of living rank for each of the 13 Basket Groups is now available.

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Transport International Cost of Living Ranking 2010

This report provides you with the rank of Transport cost of living indexes as at September 2010 for each of our 300 global locations. The indexes are calculated using the prices for specific quantities of the same goods and services in each location, based on expatriate spending patterns across 13 broad categories (Basket Groups). Our calculators make use of the cost of living indexes, based on your input and Xpatulator's data, to create reports online which you can save, e-mail or convert to a pdf file.

 

Transport costs include public transport, vehicle costs, vehicle fuel, vehicle insurance and vehicle maintenance such as hire purchase / lease of vehicle, petrol / diesel, public transport service maintenance, tires, vehicle Insurance, and vehicle purchase.

 

The September 2010 transport international cost of living top 100 rank is as follows:

 

September 2010 Rank Country, City


1 Norway, Oslo
2 Switzerland, Geneva
3 Switzerland, Zurich
4 Denmark, Copenhagen
5 Liechtenstein, Vaduz
6 Netherlands, Amsterdam
7 Germany, Munich
8 Germany, Frankfurt
9 Turkey, Istanbul
10 Germany, Cologne
11 Germany, Bonn
12 Germany, Berlin
13 Germany, Hamburg
14 Monaco, Monaco
15 France, Paris
16 Brazil, Sao Paulo
17 Japan, Tokyo
18 Timor-Leste, Dili
19 Austria, Vienna
20 Malta, Velletta
21 India, Mumbai
22 Turkey, Ankara
23 Georgia Republic of, Tbilisi
24 Brazil, Rio de Janeiro
25 Cameroon, Douala
26 Finland, Helsinki
27 Hungary, Budapest
28 Italy, Milan
29 Cameroon, Yaounde
30 Trinidad and Tobago, Port-of-Spain
31 Ireland, Dublin
32 Italy, Rome
33 India, New Delhi
34 Maldives, Male
35 India, Chennai
36 Brazil, Brasilia
37 India, Calcutta
38 Spain, Madrid
39 Iceland, Reykjavik
40 Luxembourg, Luxembourg
41 San Marino, San Marino
42 Eritrea, Asmara
43 India, Hyderabad
44 Canada, Toronto
45 India, Bangalore
46 Sao Tome and Principe, Sao Tome
47 Madagascar, Antananarivo
48 Spain, Barcelona
49 Canada, Vancouver
50 Congo Democratic Rep, Kinshasa
51 United Kingdom, London
52 Israel, Jerusalem
53 Vatican City, Vatican City
54 Mali, Bamako
55 Canada, Calgary
56 Guernsey, St Peter Port
57 Sweden, Stockholm
58 Australia, Sydney
59 France, Lyon
60 Isle of Man, Douglas
61 Gambia, Banjul
62 Canada, Montreal
63 Greenland, Nuuk
64 USA, New York NY
65 Belgium, Brussels
66 Australia, Canberra
67 Slovakia, Bratislava
68 Rwanda, Kigali
69 Poland, Warsaw
70 Turkmenistan, Ashgabat
71 Malawi, Lilongwe
72 Fiji, Suva
73 Congo, Brazzaville
74 Cook Islands, Avarua
75 Falkland Islands, Stanley
76 Jersey, Saint Helier
77 Azerbaijan, Baku
78 Andorra, Andorra la Vella
79 United Kingdom, Glasgow
80 Vanuatu, Port Vila
81 Australia, Perth
82 Portugal, Lisbon
83 France, Marseille
84 Canada, Ottawa
85 Jamaica, Kingston
86 Australia, Melbourne
87 United Kingdom, Birmingham
88 Japan, Osaka
89 Gibraltar, Gibraltar
90 Zambia, Lusaka
91 United Kingdom, Leeds
92 Saint Helena, Jamestown
93 Kiribati, South Tarawa
94 Venezuela, Caracas
95 Senegal, Dakar
96 China, Hong Kong
97 Papua New Guinea, Port Moresby
98 Micronesia, Palikir
99 Greece, Athens
100 Paraguay, Asuncion

Indonesia, Jakarta - Cost of Living

The economy of Indonesia is the largest economy in Southeast Asia, is one of the emerging market economies of the world, and is also a member of G-20 major economies. It has a market-based economy in which the government plays a significant role by owning more than 164 state-owned enterprises and administers prices on several basic goods, including fuel, rice, and electricity.

Jakarta is the capital and largest city of Indonesia. Jakarta's economy depends heavily on financial service, trade, and manufacturing. Industry includes electronics, automotive, chemicals, mechanical engineering and biomedical sciences manufacturing.

Jakarta has an overall cost of living index which equates it with middle cost of living locations. The overall cost of living index is comprised of the prices for defined quantities of the same goods and services across all 13 Basket Groups.

The latest cost of living rank for each of the 13 Basket Groups is now available.

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India, New Delhi - Cost of Living

The economy of India is the twelfth largest economy in the world by nominal value and the fourth largest by purchasing power parity (PPP). In the 1990s, following economic reform from the socialist-inspired economy of post-independence India, the country began to experience rapid economic growth, as markets opened for international competition and investment. In the 21st century, India is an emerging economic power with vast human and natural resources, and a huge knowledge base.

New Delhi is the capital of India. ew Delhi is situated within the metropolis of Delhi and serves as the seat of the Government of India and the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi. Government and quasi government sector is the primary employer in New Delhi. The city's service sector has expanded due in part to the large skilled English-speaking workforce that has attracted many multinational companies. Key service industries include information technology, telecommunications, hotels, banking, media and tourism.

New Delhi has an overall cost of living index which equates it with middle cost of living locations. The overall cost of living index is comprised of the prices for defined quantities of the same goods and services across all 13 Basket Groups.

The latest cost of living rank for each of the 13 Basket Groups is now available.

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Thursday, October 28, 2010

India, Mumbai - Cost of Living

The economy of India is the twelfth largest economy in the world by nominal value and the fourth largest by purchasing power parity (PPP). In the 1990s, following economic reform from the socialist-inspired economy of post-independence India, the country began to experience rapid economic growth, as markets opened for international competition and investment. In the 21st century, India is an emerging economic power with vast human and natural resources, and a huge knowledge base.

Mumbai is the capital of the Indian state of Maharashtra. Mumbai is the commercial and entertainment centre of India, generating 5% of India's GDP, and accounting for 25% of industrial output, 40% of maritime trade, and 70% of capital transactions to India's economy. Mumbai is home to important financial institutions such as the Reserve Bank of India, the Bombay Stock Exchange, the National Stock Exchange of India and the corporate headquarters of numerous Indian companies and multinational corporations. The city also houses India's Hindi film and television industry, known as Bollywood.

Mumbai has an overall cost of living index which equates it with middle cost of living locations. The overall cost of living index is comprised of the prices for defined quantities of the same goods and services across all 13 Basket Groups.

The latest cost of living rank for each of the 13 Basket Groups is now available.

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India, Hyderabad - Cost of Living

The economy of India is the twelfth largest economy in the world by nominal value and the fourth largest by purchasing power parity (PPP). In the 1990s, following economic reform from the socialist-inspired economy of post-independence India, the country began to experience rapid economic growth, as markets opened for international competition and investment. In the 21st century, India is an emerging economic power with vast human and natural resources, and a huge knowledge base.

Hyderabad is the capital and the most populous city of the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. Hyderabad has developed into a major hub for the information technology industry in India. The city is home to the world's largest film studio, the Ramoji Film City as well as the Telugu Film Industry, the second-largest in India, known popularly as Tollywood.

Hyderabad has an overall cost of living index which equates it with middle cost of living locations. The overall cost of living index is comprised of the prices for defined quantities of the same goods and services across all 13 Basket Groups.

The latest cost of living rank for each of the 13 Basket Groups is now available.

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Grocery International Cost of Living Ranking 2010

This report provides you with the rank of Grocery cost of living indexes as at September 2010 for each of our 300 global locations. The indexes are calculated using the prices for specific quantities of the same goods and services in each location, based on expatriate spending patterns across 13 broad categories (Basket Groups). Our calculators make use of the cost of living indexes, based on your input and Xpatulator's data, to create reports online which you can save, e-mail or convert to a pdf file.

 

Grocery costs include food, non-alcoholic beverages and cleaning material items such as baby consumables, baked goods, baking, canned foods, cheese, cleaning products, dairy, fresh fruits, fresh vegetables, fruit juices, meat, oil & vinegars, pet food, pre-prepared meals, sauces, seafood, snacks, soft drinks, spices and herbs.

 

The September 2010 grocery international cost of living top 100 rank is as follows:

 

September 2010 Rank Country, City


1 Japan, Tokyo
2 Venezuela, Caracas
3 Russia, Moscow
4 Trinidad and Tobago, Port-of-Spain
5 Denmark, Copenhagen
6 Japan, Osaka
7 Congo, Brazzaville
8 Sudan, Khartoum
9 Bahrain, Manama
10 Kiribati, South Tarawa
11 Norway, Oslo
12 Japan, Nagoya
13 Korea Republic of, Seoul
14 Central African Republic, Bangui
15 Switzerland, Geneva
16 Gabon, Libreville
17 China, Hong Kong
18 Japan, Yokohama
19 Solomon Islands, Honiara
20 Switzerland, Zurich
21 Indonesia, Jakarta
22 USA, Anchorage AK
23 Sierra Leone, Freetown
24 Angola, Luanda
25 Egypt, Cairo
26 Canada, Toronto
27 Russia, St. Petersburg
28 USA, San Jose Calif
29 Congo Democratic Rep, Kinshasa
30 Canada, Vancouver
31 Azerbaijan, Baku
32 Qatar, Doha
33 Liberia, Monrovia
34 Nigeria, Lagos
35 Liechtenstein, Vaduz
36 Canada, Calgary
37 Philippines, Manila
38 USA, Philadelphia Pa
39 Canada, Montreal
40 Papua New Guinea, Port Moresby
41 USA, Boston Mass
42 Sao Tome and Principe, Sao Tome
43 USA, New York NY
44 USA, San Francisco Calif
45 Burkina Faso, Ouagadougou
46 USA, Washington DC
47 New Caledonia, Noumea
48 Afghanistan, Kabul
49 Bahamas, Nassau
50 Bermuda, Hamilton
51 Micronesia, Palikir
52 Australia, Sydney
53 Brazil, Sao Paulo
54 Timor-Leste, Dili
55 Canada, Ottawa
56 Australia, Canberra
57 United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi
58 Samoa, Apia
59 Cayman Islands, George Town
60 Guam, Hagatna
61 France, Paris
62 Monaco, Monaco
63 Lebanon, Beirut
64 China, Shanghai
65 Vanuatu, Port Vila
66 Korea Democratic Republic of, Pyongyang
67 Haiti, Port-au-Prince
68 USA, Seattle Wash
69 Mali, Bamako
70 Austria, Vienna
71 Brazil, Rio de Janeiro
72 Comores, Moroni
73 Australia, Melbourne
74 Cote DIvoire, Abidjan
75 Jamaica, Kingston
76 Djibouti, Djibouti
77 Chad, NDjamena
78 Australia, Perth
79 United Arab Emirates, Dubai
80 Martinique, Fort-de-France
81 USA, Baltimore Md
82 Barbados, Bridgetown
83 USA, Chicago Ill
84 Jersey, Saint Helier
85 Brunei, Bandar Seri Begawan
86 Singapore, Singapore
87 USA, San Diego Calif
88 Puerto Rico, San Juan
89 Brazil, Brasilia
90 Malawi, Lilongwe
91 United Kingdom, London
92 USA, Cleveland Ohio
93 Taiwan, Taipei
94 Iraq, Baghdad
95 USA, Miami Fla
96 Burundi, Bujumbura
97 USA, Los Angeles Calif
98 China, Macao
99 Italy, Milan
100 Sweden, Stockholm

Europe Cost of Living - 2010

Europe's most expensive cities are those that are not on the Euro. The most expensive city in Europe is Geneva (ranked 8 in the world), while Zurich is Europe's third most expensive city (ranked 10 in the world), making Switzerland the most expensive country in Europe. The Swiss Franc has strengthened by 8% in the past year and by 16% over the past 2 years. Geneva is followed by Moscow (ranked 9 in the world), which had fallen in the cost of living rankings last year and shot back up to 6th most expensive city in Europe earlier this year. The Russian Rouble has strengthened 14% against the Euro in the past year. Oslo is the fourth most expensive city in Europe (ranked 12 in the world), followed by Copenhagen (ranked 16 in the world). The cheapest city in Europe is Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina (ranked 292 in the world) with a cost of living index of 57.15 (New York = 100).

 

Tokyo is the most expensive city in the world in which to live, out of 300 global locations, surveyed in September 2010. While Tokyo is relatively cheap for items such as alcohol & tobacco (ranked 145), it is the most expensive for groceries and healthcare, and household accommodation costs. Tokyo has always been relatively expensive. This trend has strengthened again recently, as a result of the Japanese Yen having gained in value by about 18% against the United States Dollar in the past two years.

As the most expensive city in the world, Tokyo has an overall cost of living index of 155.4 (New York = 100), while Dubai (ranked 60 in the world) has a cost of living index of 88.84. Therefore Tokyo's cost of living is 75% higher than Dubai. That means that an expatriate earning USD$5,000 per month in Dubai would need to earn USD$8,750 per month in Tokyo to enable them to have the same purchasing power, and therefore a similar standard of living as they had in Dubai. The cost of living for an expatriate is affected by both the availability and prices, of goods and services representative of an expatriate lifestyle, local inflation, and the exchange rate between the home and host country. As a result the cost of living has a significant impact of an expatriate's salary package.

Caracas has moved up the rankings to become the second most expensive city to live in. Caracas is most expensive place in the world for furniture and appliances, recreation and culture as well as for hotels restaurants and meals out. Caracas is the second most expensive place for alcohol and tobacco, groceries, and healthcare.

Hong Kong is the third most expensive city in the world for expatriates to live in. The high overall cost of living rank for Hong Kong is primarily a result of two expensive basket groups. Hong Kong is the third most expensive city in the world for healthcare, and is the second most expensive city in the world for household accommodation, which typically comprises 30% of an expatriate's expenses. Hong Kong is a good example of why many international organizations compensate separately for healthcare as well as household related costs such as housing rental, water, electricity, household gas, household fuels, local rates and residential taxes. Items that are provided by the employer should be excluded from a cost of living index calculation. The cost of living index for Hong Kong excluding healthcare and household related costs is substantially lower than it's overall cost of living index of 128.9 (New York = 100). Hong Kong is relatively cheap for recreation & culture (ranked 241 in the world), education (ranked 259 in the world), as well as furniture & appliances (ranked 268 in the world).

Osaka, ranked fourth, is a new addition to the rankings. Osaka is most expensive for household accommodation (ranked 3 in the world), healthcare (ranked 5 in the world) and groceries (ranked 6 in the world).

Sao Paulo, another new addition to the rankings, is the fifth most expensive city in the world. Sao Paulo is the most expensive place in the world for education, and is ranked second most expensive for clothing. The Brazilian Real has strengthened by 11% against the United States Dollar in the past year, although it is still weaker than it was two years ago. Sao Paulo is ranked in the top 55 most expensive cities in the world for each of the 13 basket groups.

 

Most expensive cities in Europe (Global rank in brackets)
1. Switzerland, Geneva (8)
2. Russia, Moscow (9)
3. Switzerland, Zurich (10)
4. Norway, Oslo (12)
5. Denmark, Copenhagen (16)
6. Liechtenstein, Vaduz (17)
7. United Kingdom, London (23)
8. France, Paris (26)
9. Monaco, Monaco (29)
10. Jersey, Saint Helier (34)

 

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India, Chennai - Cost of Living

The economy of India is the twelfth largest economy in the world by nominal value and the fourth largest by purchasing power parity (PPP). In the 1990s, following economic reform from the socialist-inspired economy of post-independence India, the country began to experience rapid economic growth, as markets opened for international competition and investment. In the 21st century, India is an emerging economic power with vast human and natural resources, and a huge knowledge base.

Chennai is the capital city of the Indian state of Tamil Nadu. Chennai's economy has a broad industrial base in the car, technology, hardware manufacturing, and healthcare industries. The city is India's second largest exporter of software, information technology (IT) and information-technology-enabled services (ITES). A major chunk of India's car manufacturing industry is based in and around the city.

Chennai has an overall cost of living index which equates it with middle cost of living locations. The overall cost of living index is comprised of the prices for defined quantities of the same goods and services across all 13 Basket Groups.

The latest cost of living rank for each of the 13 Basket Groups is now available.

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India, Calcutta - Cost of Living

The economy of India is the twelfth largest economy in the world by nominal value and the fourth largest by purchasing power parity (PPP). In the 1990s, following economic reform from the socialist-inspired economy of post-independence India, the country began to experience rapid economic growth, as markets opened for international competition and investment. In the 21st century, India is an emerging economic power with vast human and natural resources, and a huge knowledge base.

Calcutta is the capital of the Indian state of West Bengal. Calcutta is the main business, commercial and financial hub of eastern India and the northeastern states. It is home to the Calcutta Stock Exchange India's second-largest bourse. It is also a major commercial and military port, and the only city in the region to have an international airport.

Calcutta has an overall cost of living index which equates it with middle cost of living locations. The overall cost of living index is comprised of the prices for defined quantities of the same goods and services across all 13 Basket Groups.

The latest cost of living rank for each of the 13 Basket Groups is now available.

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Wednesday, October 27, 2010

India, Bangalore - Cost of Living

The economy of India is the twelfth largest economy in the world by nominal value and the fourth largest by purchasing power parity (PPP). In the 1990s, following economic reform from the socialist-inspired economy of post-independence India, the country began to experience rapid economic growth, as markets opened for international competition and investment. In the 21st century, India is an emerging economic power with vast human and natural resources, and a huge knowledge base.

Bangalore is the capital of the Indian state of Karnataka. Bangalore evolved into a manufacturing hub for heavy industries such as Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Indian Telephone Industries (ITI), Hindustan Machine Tools and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) after India gained independence from Great Britain in 1947. Within the last decade, the establishment and success of high technology firms in Bangalore has led to the growth of Information Technology (IT) in India. IT firms in Bangalore employ about 35% of India's pool of around 1 million IT professionals. Bangalore accounts for the highest IT-related exports in the country.

Bangalore has an overall cost of living index which equates it with middle cost of living locations. The overall cost of living index is comprised of the prices for defined quantities of the same goods and services across all 13 Basket Groups.

The latest cost of living rank for each of the 13 Basket Groups is now available.

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Iceland, Reykjavik - Cost of Living

The economy of Iceland is a small mixed economy with high levels of free trade and government intervention and subject to high volatility.

Reykjavík is the capital and largest city of Iceland. Reykjavík is is the only metropolitan area in Iceland. As a highly modernized capital of one of the most developed countries in the world, its inhabitants enjoy a first-class welfare system and city infrastructure.

Reykjavik has an overall cost of living index which equates it with high cost of living locations. The overall cost of living index is comprised of the prices for defined quantities of the same goods and services across all 13 Basket Groups.

The latest cost of living rank for each of the 13 Basket Groups is now available.

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Education International Cost of Living Ranking 2010

This report provides you with the rank of Education cost of living indexes as at September 2010 for each of our 300 global locations. The indexes are calculated using the prices for specific quantities of the same goods and services in each location, based on expatriate spending patterns across 13 broad categories (Basket Groups). Our calculators make use of the cost of living indexes, based on your input and Xpatulator's data, to create reports online which you can save, e-mail or convert to a pdf file.

 

Education costs include creche / pre-school fees, high school / college fees, primary school fees, and tertiary study fees.

 


The September 2010 education international cost of living top 100 rank is as follows:


 

September 2010 Rank Country, City


1 Brazil, Sao Paulo
2 Angola, Luanda
3 Brazil, Rio de Janeiro
4 Russia, Moscow
5 Brazil, Brasilia
6 Bahamas, Nassau
7 Singapore, Singapore
8 Russia, St. Petersburg
9 USA, New York NY
10 Liberia, Monrovia
11 Nigeria, Lagos
12 Bermuda, Hamilton
13 Gabon, Libreville
14 Belgium, Brussels
15 Solomon Islands, Honiara
16 United Kingdom, London
17 Congo Democratic Rep, Kinshasa
18 Sierra Leone, Freetown
19 Vanuatu, Port Vila
20 Australia, Sydney
21 USA, Anchorage AK
22 Cuba, Havana
23 Australia, Canberra
24 USA, Boston Mass
25 United Kingdom, Glasgow
26 USA, Philadelphia Pa
27 Croatia, Zagreb
28 Australia, Melbourne
29 Uruguay, Montevideo
30 USA, Seattle Wash
31 Jersey, Saint Helier
32 Kazakhstan, Almaty
33 Barbados, Bridgetown
34 United Kingdom, Birmingham
35 Australia, Perth
36 United Kingdom, Leeds
37 USA, San Francisco Calif
38 Cote DIvoire, Abidjan
39 New Caledonia, Noumea
40 USA, Chicago Ill
41 USA, Washington DC
42 Central African Republic, Bangui
43 Sao Tome and Principe, Sao Tome
44 Saudi Arabia, Riyadh
45 USA, San Jose Calif
46 Djibouti, Djibouti
47 USA, Los Angeles Calif
48 Chad, NDjamena
49 Guyana, Georgetown
50 Guernsey, St Peter Port
51 USA, San Diego Calif
52 Guinea, Conakry
53 Australia, Brisbane
54 Congo, Brazzaville
55 USA, Portland Ore
56 United Kingdom, Belfast
57 Colombia, Bogota
58 South Africa, Johannesburg
59 Afghanistan, Kabul
60 Kiribati, South Tarawa
61 Israel, Jerusalem
62 USA, Miami Fla
63 New Zealand, Auckland
64 Saint Helena, Jamestown
65 Samoa, Apia
66 USA, Baltimore Md
67 Estonia, Tallinn
68 USA, Denver Colo
69 USA, Atlanta GA
70 Australia, Adelaide
71 Iran, Tehran
72 Burkina Faso, Ouagadougou
73 Lithuania, Vilnius
74 Zambia, Lusaka
75 USA, Milwaukee Wis
76 USA, St Louis MO
77 Iraq, Baghdad
78 USA, Cleveland Ohio
79 USA, Phoenix Ariz
80 Maldives, Male
81 USA, Dallas Tex
82 USA, Las Vegas Nev
83 Comores, Moroni
84 USA, Detroit Mich
85 USA, Pittsburgh Penn
86 South Africa, Pretoria
87 USA, San Antonio Tex
88 Haiti, Port-au-Prince
89 Falkland Islands, Stanley
90 Saudi Arabia, Jeddah
91 Malawi, Lilongwe
92 South Africa, Cape Town
93 Serbia, Belgrade
94 USA, Charlotte NC
95 USA, Jacksonville Fla
96 USA, Fort Worth Tex
97 Seychelles, Victoria
98 USA, Columbus Ohio
99 South Africa, Durban
100 USA, Tampa Fla

Why are Expatriates paid differently to local people?


Most countries have a two tier Pay Market. The two distinct pay markets are typically an Expatriate Market and a Local Market.


 


The Expatriate Market is largely determined by the origin of each Expatriate. It is quite normal to have considerable differences between Expatriates doing exactly the same job, in the same country. These differences are largely caused by three factors:



  • The Cost of Living difference between the Home Country (country of origin) and Host Country (where they work)

  • The Relative Hardship difference between Home and Host Country. For example, ,moving to a country where more day to day hardship will be experienced, would normally result in more pay to compensate for the hardship

  • The Exchange Rate difference between the Home and Host Country


 


On the other hand the Local Market is largely determined by local supply and demand for skills.


 


Depending on a number of factors, such as the availability of skills, rate of economic growth, and the type of economy, the percentage of expatriates versus locally employed people will vary.


 


Expatriate Pay is typically calculated by using the Expatriates salary in their Home Country as the start point and by calculating an appropriate salary in the Host Country using the Cost of Living difference, relative hardship, and exchange rate. This is either done using a company in-house policy or using an international relocation calculator.


 


Local Pay is typically determined by the prevailing market salary levels. These salary levels are typically reported in salary surveys run by independent Remuneration Consultancies.


 


We can conclude therefore that Expatriate Pay is primarily determined by factors outside the host country as well as differences between the host country and the Expatriate's home country.  Local Pay is primarily determined by factors within the country, such as strength of the economy and the supply and demand for skills.


Hungary, Budapest - Cost of Living

The economy of Hungary is a medium-sized, structurally, politically and institutionally open economy in Central Europe and is part of the European Union's (EU) single market. Like most Eastern European economies, the economy of Hungary experienced market liberalisation in the early 1990s as part of the transition from socialist economy to market economy.

Budapest is the capital of Hungary. As the largest city of Hungary, Budapest serves as the country's principal political, cultural, commercial, industrial, and transportation center and is considered an important hub in Central Europe.

Budapest has an overall cost of living index which equates it with high cost of living locations. The overall cost of living index is comprised of the prices for defined quantities of the same goods and services across all 13 Basket Groups.

The latest cost of living rank for each of the 13 Basket Groups is now available.

Read More

South Asia Cost of Living - 2010

South Asia is the least expensive region in the world for expatriates to live in. The most expensive city surveyed is Mumbai (ranked 94 in the world), followed by New Delhi (ranked 127 in the world), and Chennai (ranked 129 in the world). The Indian Rupee has weakened by 7% against the United States Dollar over the past two years. The cheapest city in South Asia is Thimphu in Bhutan (ranked 298 in the world).

 

Tokyo is the most expensive city in the world in which to live, out of 300 global locations, surveyed in September 2010. While Tokyo is relatively cheap for items such as alcohol & tobacco (ranked 145), it is the most expensive for groceries and healthcare, and household accommodation costs. Tokyo has always been relatively expensive. This trend has strengthened again recently, as a result of the Japanese Yen having gained in value by about 18% against the United States Dollar in the past two years.

As the most expensive city in the world, Tokyo has an overall cost of living index of 155.4 (New York = 100), while Dubai (ranked 60 in the world) has a cost of living index of 88.84. Therefore Tokyo's cost of living is 75% higher than Dubai. That means that an expatriate earning USD$5,000 per month in Dubai would need to earn USD$8,750 per month in Tokyo to enable them to have the same purchasing power, and therefore a similar standard of living as they had in Dubai. The cost of living for an expatriate is affected by both the availability and prices, of goods and services representative of an expatriate lifestyle, local inflation, and the exchange rate between the home and host country. As a result the cost of living has a significant impact of an expatriate's salary package.

 

Most expensive cities in South Asia (Global rank in brackets)
1. India, Mumbai (94)
2. India, New Delhi (127)
3. India, Chennai (129)
4. India, Calcutta (130)
5. Maldives, Male (135)
6. India, Hyderabad (142)
7. India, Bangalore (160)
8. Afghanistan, Kabul (194)
9. Bangladesh, Dhaka (263)
10. Pakistan, Lahore 276)

 

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Managing The Older Expatriate Employee

In many countries expatriate employees work alongside or report to nationals who are on accelerated employee development programs. Expatriates are most often hired because they have advanced know how and proven experience. With some exceptions, expatriates tend
therefore to be older than the average employee. Nationals on accelerated programs, with some exceptions, tend to be relatively young when they become supervisors. They also tend to be recruited from university and immediately enrolled in a multi-year graduate development program, and as a result have experience of only one or two organizations, compared to the broad experience gained in four to eight organizations of the average expatriate. This presents a challenge for a young manager with an older more experienced expatriate reporting to them.

Younger managers are often afraid of managing older more experienced expatriates. They don’t know how to manage them. They are aware that the expatriate knows more than they do, at least about the technical and practical aspects of the job. Younger managers often find it difficult to tell them what to do and to hold them accountable, especially when they try to boss around the more experienced expatriate. Sometimes they just ignore the older expatriate which leads to a dysfunctional team.

So what to do?

The fundamental change required is to try and change the management culture from one of top-down command and control to a way of managing which engages employees. The feature of command and control is that employees should do what the manager says because they are the boss and because the manager assumes they know more than their subordinates. And this is where the frustration occurs for many expatriates, particularly those that are older and may have previously been in a bigger job. “I have been hired because of my experience but my boss acts like he knows it all and does not need me”.

The key is to teach younger managers how to engage their team especially the older members of the team. The central theme should be that you are a partner with the expatriate and you’re making decisions jointly.

Getting away from this situation requires a way of managing which engages older employees, engages their input, asks them for advice, involves partnering and sharing more than traditional managers might be comfortable doing.

Honduras, Tegucigalpa - Cost of Living

The economy of Honduras is mainly based on agriculture. Honduras has extensive forest, marine, and mineral resourcesbut the lack of arable land, and a small domestic market continue to impede economic progress in Honduras. Unemployment is estimated at above 25%.

Tegucigalpa is the capital city of Honduras and is also the country's largest city. Tegucigalpa, as a colonial city, has several barrios in the oldest districts of the city and Comayaguela, and colonias in the new ones. None of them have well-defined limits or even town-centers.

Tegucigalpa has an overall cost of living index which equates it with low cost of living locations. The overall cost of living index is comprised of the prices for defined quantities of the same goods and services across all 13 Basket Groups.

The latest cost of living rank for each of the 13 Basket Groups is now available.

Read More

International Cost of Living Rankings - September 2010

Xpatulator.com’s cost of living data is based on prices for the same quantity and quality of goods and services, representative of expatriate lifestyle, in each city. The data is collected and updated on a quarterly basis. The cost of living data is used by Xpatulator.com clients to calculate salary purchasing power parity, cost of living allowances, and customized (i.e. clients can select their own base city) cost of living indexes for expatriate assignments online, using Xpatulator.com’s 3 premium content calculators.


 


The 13 basket groups do not count equally and are weighted according to expatriate expenditure norms as follows (weighting percentage is in brackets):


 


1. Alcohol & Tobacco (2%): Alcoholic beverages and tobacco products.
2. Clothing (2.5%): Clothing and footwear products.
3. Communication (2%): Telephone, Internet, Mobile Contract and Calls.
4. Education (5%): Creche Fees, School Fees, College Fees, and Tertiary Study Fees.
5. Furniture & Appliances (5%): Furniture, household equipment and appliances.
6. Groceries (16.5%): Food, non-alcoholic beverages and cleaning materials.
7. Healthcare (5%): Doctor Consultation rates, Private Ward Rate, Prescription Medicine, and Private Medical Insurance Contributions.
8. Household (30%): Housing rental, utilities, local rates and residential taxes.
9. Miscellaneous (3%): Stationary, Linen and general goods and services.
10. Personal Care (3%): Personal Care products and services.
11. Recreation & Culture (6%): Books, Camera Film, Cinema Ticket, DVD and CD’s, Sports goods, Theatre Tickets.
12. Restaurants Meals Out and Hotels (2%): Dinner at Restaurant (non fast food), Hotel Rates, Take Away, Drinks & Snacks (fast Food).
13. Transport (18%): Public Transport, Vehicle Costs, Vehicle Fuel, Vehicle Insurance and Vehicle Maintenance.


 


Figures used in this report were taken from Xpatulator.com’s cost of living database as at 1 September 2010. The above ranks are based on the overall cost of living index using all 13 basket groups with New York as the base city (Cost of living index = 100).


 


The full September 2010 list of all 300 international locations using all 13 basket groups is as follows:


 


September 2010 Rank Country, City


1 Japan, Tokyo
2 Venezuela, Caracas
3 China, Hong Kong
4 Japan, Osaka
5 Brazil, Sao Paulo
6 Japan, Nagoya
7 Brazil, Rio de Janeiro
8 Switzerland, Geneva
9 Russia, Moscow
10 Switzerland, Zurich
11 Japan, Yokohama
12 Norway, Oslo
13 Brazil, Brasilia
14 Angola, Luanda
15 China, Shanghai
16 Denmark, Copenhagen
17 Liechtenstein, Vaduz
18 Bahamas, Nassau
19 United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi
20 Singapore, Singapore
21 USA, New York NY
22 Australia, Sydney
23 United Kingdom, London
24 Korea Republic of, Seoul
25 Australia, Canberra
26 France, Paris
27 Papua New Guinea, Port Moresby
28 Qatar, Doha
29 Monaco, Monaco
30 Vanuatu, Port Vila
31 Canada, Toronto
32 Trinidad and Tobago, Port-of-Spain
33 Nigeria, Lagos
34 Jersey, Saint Helier
35 Russia, St. Petersburg
36 Bermuda, Hamilton
37 Solomon Islands, Honiara
38 Taiwan, Taipei
39 Australia, Melbourne
40 Australia, Perth
41 Azerbaijan, Baku
42 Canada, Vancouver
43 Guernsey, St Peter Port
44 Austria, Vienna
45 Germany, Munich
46 Kiribati, South Tarawa
47 Bahrain, Manama
48 Isle of Man, Douglas
49 Italy, Milan
50 United Kingdom, Glasgow
51 Gabon, Libreville
52 Finland, Helsinki
53 Canada, Calgary
54 Falkland Islands, Stanley
55 Sudan, Khartoum
56 Germany, Frankfurt
57 Italy, Rome
58 Micronesia, Palikir
59 Congo Democratic Rep, Kinshasa
60 United Arab Emirates, Dubai
61 Cayman Islands, George Town
62 Chad, NDjamena
63 USA, San Francisco Calif
64 Saint Helena, Jamestown
65 Croatia, Zagreb
66 USA, Boston Mass
67 Germany, Cologne
68 Turkey, Istanbul
69 Canada, Montreal
70 United Kingdom, Birmingham
71 Belgium, Brussels
72 New Caledonia, Noumea
73 Mali, Bamako
74 Netherlands, Amsterdam
75 United Kingdom, Leeds
76 Slovakia, Bratislava
77 USA, Washington DC
78 Indonesia, Jakarta
79 San Marino, San Marino
80 Central African Republic, Bangui
81 Germany, Hamburg
82 Israel, Jerusalem
83 Australia, Brisbane
84 USA, San Jose Calif
85 Estonia, Tallinn
86 Ireland, Dublin
87 Luxembourg, Luxembourg
88 Kazakhstan, Almaty
89 Sierra Leone, Freetown
90 Iceland, Reykjavik
91 Sao Tome and Principe, Sao Tome
92 Germany, Berlin
93 Germany, Bonn
94 India, Mumbai
95 Jamaica, Kingston
96 Djibouti, Djibouti
97 United Kingdom, Belfast
98 Congo, Brazzaville
99 USA, Anchorage AK
100 USA, Philadelphia Pa
101 Uruguay, Montevideo
102 New Zealand, Auckland
103 Liberia, Monrovia
104 Canada, Ottawa
105 Spain, Madrid
106 France, Lyon
107 Colombia, Bogota
108 Barbados, Bridgetown
109 Sweden, Stockholm
110 Martinique, Fort-de-France
111 Czech Republic, Prague
112 Cameroon, Douala
113 Australia, Adelaide
114 Vatican City, Vatican City
115 Turkey, Ankara
116 China, Beijing
117 Puerto Rico, San Juan
118 Nauru, Yaren
119 Lebanon, Beirut
120 Zambia, Lusaka
121 USA, Los Angeles Calif
122 France, Marseille
123 Cameroon, Yaounde
124 Cook Islands, Avarua
125 Spain, Barcelona
126 Guam, Hagatna
127 India, New Delhi
128 Samoa, Apia
129 India, Chennai
130 India, Calcutta
131 Ghana, Accra
132 Marshall Islands, Majuro
133 Cote DIvoire, Abidjan
134 Greenland, Nuuk
135 Maldives, Male
136 Hungary, Budapest
137 Malawi, Lilongwe
138 Turkmenistan, Ashgabat
139 USA, San Diego Calif
140 Rwanda, Kigali
141 Palestinian Territories, West Bank
142 India, Hyderabad
143 USA, Chicago Ill
144 Chile, Santiago
145 USA, Portland Ore
146 Syria, Damascus
147 Malta, Velletta
148 Peru, Lima
149 Tuvalu, Funafuti
150 Namibia, Windhoek
151 USA, Baltimore Md
152 Ukraine, Kiev
153 South Africa, Johannesburg
154 Portugal, Lisbon
155 USA, Seattle Wash
156 Tanzania, Dar es Salaam
157 Guadeloupe, Basse-Terre
158 Iran, Tehran
159 Togo, Lome
160 India, Bangalore
161 USA, Miami Fla
162 Guinea, Conakry
163 Kuwait, Kuwait City
164 Senegal, Dakar
165 Guinea-Bissau, Bissau
166 Comores, Moroni
167 Timor-Leste, Dili
168 Brunei, Bandar Seri Begawan
169 Cape Verde, Praia
170 Philippines, Manila
171 Madagascar, Antananarivo
172 Burkina Faso, Ouagadougou
173 Thailand, Bangkok
174 Mexico, Mexico City
175 Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Kingstown
176 Saudi Arabia, Riyadh
177 Andorra, Andorra la Vella
178 Greece, Athens
179 French Polynesia, Papeete
180 Guatemala, Guatemala City
181 Lithuania, Vilnius
182 Georgia Republic of, Tbilisi
183 Somalia, Mogadishu
184 USA, Phoenix Ariz
185 Honduras, Tegucigalpa
186 Montenegro, Podgorica
187 South Africa, Pretoria
188 Egypt, Cairo
189 Guyana, Georgetown
190 USA, Las Vegas Nev
191 South Africa, Cape Town
192 Poland, Warsaw
193 Armenia, Yerevan
194 Afghanistan, Kabul
195 Haiti, Port-au-Prince
196 Gibraltar, Gibraltar
197 Cuba, Havana
198 Cyprus, Nicosia
199 Jordan, Amman
200 Fiji, Suva
201 USA, Detroit Mich
202 Benin, Cotonou
203 USA, Denver Colo
204 Grenada, Saint Georges
205 Palau, Melekeok
206 Seychelles, Victoria
207 Panama, Panama City
208 South Africa, Durban
209 USA, Cleveland Ohio
210 Costa Rica, San Jose
211 Kenya, Nairobi
212 Belarus, Minsk
213 Saint Kitts and Nevis, Basseterre
214 USA, Atlanta GA
215 Malaysia, Kuala Lumpur
216 Northern Mariana Islands, Saipan
217 USA, Charlotte NC
218 Iraq, Baghdad
219 Algeria, Algiers
220 Dominica, Roseau
221 Oman, Muscat
222 USA, Jacksonville Fla
223 Gambia, Banjul
224 Antigua and Barbuda, Saint Johns
225 USA, Milwaukee Wis
226 Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo
227 Eritrea, Asmara
228 USA, Pittsburgh Penn
229 Botswana, Gaborone
230 Mozambique, Maputo
231 French Guiana, Cayenne
232 Serbia, Belgrade
233 Niger, Niamey
234 Slovenia, Ljubljana
235 USA, Tampa Fla
236 China, Wuhan
237 China, Shenzhen
238 Latvia, Riga
239 Saudi Arabia, Jeddah
240 USA, Dallas Tex
241 Vietnam, Hanoi
242 USA, Fort Worth Tex
243 Laos, Vientiane
244 USA, San Antonio Tex
245 Moldova, Chisinau
246 USA, Houston Tex
247 China, Dalian
248 Nicaragua, Managua
249 Burundi, Bujumbura
250 Belize, Belmopan
251 USA, Columbus Ohio
252 USA, St Louis MO
253 Mongolia, Ulaanbaatar
254 China, Macao
255 Romania, Bucharest
256 Equatorial Guinea, Malabo
257 USA, Austin Tex
258 Ethiopia, Addis Ababa
259 Macedonia, Skopje
260 El Salvador, San Salvador
261 Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City
262 Mauritania, Nouakchott
263 Bangladesh, Dhaka
264 USA, El Paso Tex
265 Kyrgyzstan, Bishkek
266 Mauritius, Port Louis
267 Saint Lucia, Castries
268 USA, Memphis Tenn
269 Argentina, Buenos Aires
270 Paraguay, Asuncion
271 Kosovo, Pristina
272 Ecuador, Quito
273 Myanmar, Yangon
274 China, Guangzhou
275 Lesotho, Maseru
276 Pakistan, Lahore
277 Morocco, Rabat
278 Bulgaria, Sofia
279 USA, Indianapolis Ind
280 Swaziland, Mbabane
281 China, Tianjin
282 Zimbabwe, Harare
283 Pakistan, Islamabad
284 Nepal, Kathmandu
285 Suriname, Paramaribo
286 Albania, Tirana
287 Uzbekistan, Tashkent
288 Pakistan, Karachi
289 Uganda, Kampala
290 Korea Democratic Republic of, Pyongyang
291 Tajikistan, Dushanbe
292 Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sarajevo
293 Libya, Tripoli
294 Bolivia, La Paz
295 Cambodia, Phnom Penh
296 Sri Lanka, Colombo
297 Tunisia, Tunis
298 Bhutan, Thimphu
299 Tonga, NukuAlofa
300 Yemen, Sanaa