Sunday, July 31, 2011

Moving to Santo Domingo

Today we look at moving to Santo Domingo in Dominican Republic from Kinshasa in Congo Democratic Rep. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In Santo Domingo people speak Spanish. In Kinshasa people speak French and Lingala, Kiswahili, Kikongo as well as Tshiluba.

Santo Domingo, is the capital and largest city in the Dominican Republic. Kinshasa is the capital and largest city of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
Santo Domingo is the center of economic activity in the Dominican Republic. Many national and international firms have their headquarters or regional offices in the city. The city attracts many international firms and franchises due to its geographic location, stability and vibrant economy. Kinshasa ties with Johannesburg for the status of the second largest city in sub-Saharan Africa and the third largest in the whole continent after Lagos and Cairo. Because the administrative boundaries cover such a vast area, over 60% of the city's land is rural in nature, and the urban area only occupies a small section in the far western end of the province.

The overall cost of living rank in Santo Domingo is 237 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with low cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from Kinshasa to Santo Domingo will experience a change in cost of living of -21.7%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Santo Domingo is ranked as an extreme hardship location with a hardship index of 40% the same as Kinshasa.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Roseau

Today we look at moving to Roseau in Dominica from Brazzaville in Congo. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In Roseau people speak English (official) and French patois. In Brazzaville people speak French, indigenous African languages.

Roseau is the capital and largest city of Dominica. Brazzaville is the capital and largest city of the Republic of the Congo.
The urban structure of Central Roseau is based on an irregular grid system of miniature proportions. Exports include bananas, bay oil, vegetables, grapefruit, oranges and cocoa, services. Over a third of the population of the Republic of Congo lives in the capital, and it is home to 40% of non-agricultural employment. It is also a financial and administrative capital. Industries present in Brazzaville include: machine shops, textiles, tanning, and manufacturing. As a key port on the Congo River, the city takes deliveries of raw materials, such as: rubber, wood and agricultural products. From here they are generally sent onward to Pointe-Noire for export.

The overall cost of living rank in Roseau is 234 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with low cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from Brazzaville to Roseau will experience a change in cost of living of -13.7%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Roseau is ranked as an extreme hardship location with a hardship index of 40% the same as Brazzaville.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Djibouti

Today we look at moving to Djibouti in Djibouti from Moroni in Comores. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In Djibouti people speak French, Arabic, Somali and Afar. In Moroni people speak Arabic, French and Comoran (a blend of Swahili and Arabic).

The City of Djibouti is the capital and largest city of the Republic of Djibouti. Moroni is the capital and largest city of the Comoros.
The Djibouti-Addis Ababa Railway runs from the city to Addis Ababa, while it is also home to the Djibouti-Ambouli International Airport. Northwest of the city centre lies the city's port, used for international trade, for fishing, and by ferries to Obock and Tadjoura. Moroni has many excellent beaches. Exports include vanilla, cocoa, and coffee.

The overall cost of living rank in Djibouti is 140 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with middle cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from Moroni to Djibouti will experience a change in cost of living of -1.9%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Djibouti is ranked as an extreme hardship location with a hardship index of 40% compared to Moroni with a hardship index of 30% which is a high degree of hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Copenhagen

Today we look at moving to Copenhagen in Denmark from Bogota in Colombia. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In Copenhagen people speak Danish. In Bogota people speak Spanish.

Copenhagen is the capital and largest city of Denmark. Bogota is the capital city of Colombia.
Copenhagen is the economical and financial centre of Denmark and also a strong business and economic centre in the Scandinavian-Baltic region. Bogota is Colombia's largest economic center and most companies in Colombia have their headquarters in the city. Bogota is also a major center for the import and export of goods for Colombia and the Andean Community in Latin America.

The overall cost of living rank in Copenhagen is 14 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with high cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from Bogota to Copenhagen will experience a change in cost of living of 34.2%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Copenhagen is ranked as a minimal hardship location with a hardship index of 10% compared to Bogota with a hardship index of 30% which is a high degree of hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Saturday, July 30, 2011

Moving to Prague

Today we look at moving to Prague in Czech Republic from Wuhan in China. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In Prague people speak Czech. In Wuhan people speak Mandarin Chinese.

Prague is the capital and largest city of the Czech Republic. Wuhan is the capital of Hubei province, People's Republic of China, and is the most populous city in central China.
Prague's economy is based on various industrial sectors. Prague's industrial sector is split into aircraft engines, diesel engines, refined oil products, electronics, chemicals, food, printing, automobiles etc. Also a significant proportion of research and development is based in Prague. Approximately one-fifth of all investment in the Czech Republic takes place in Prague city. Wuhan is an important center for economy, trade, finance, transportation, information technology, and education in Central China. Its major industries includes optic-electronic, automobile manufacturing, steel manufacturing, new pharmaceutical sector, biology engineering, new materials industry and environmental protection. Wuhan has over one third of French investment in China, the most among Chinese cities.

The overall cost of living rank in Prague is 68 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with high cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from Wuhan to Prague will experience a change in cost of living of 35.8%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Prague is ranked as a some hardship location with a hardship index of 20% compared to Wuhan with a hardship index of 30% which is a high degree of hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Nicosia

Today we look at moving to Nicosia in Cyprus from Tianjin in China. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In Nicosia people speak Greek and Turkish. In Tianjin people speak Mandarin Chinese.

Nicosia, known locally as Lefkosia is the capital and largest city of Cyprus. Tianjin is the sixth largest city of the People's Republic of China in terms of urban population. Administratively it is one of the four municipalities that have provincial-level status, reporting directly to the central government. Also, its urban land area is the fifth largest in China, ranked only after Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Shenzhen.

Nicosia is important commercially with many shops, two modern shopping malls, restaurants and entertainment. The city is a trade centre and manufactures textiles, leather, pottery, plastic, and other products. Copper mines are nearby. Nicosia is the seat of the University of Cyprus (UCY) and four other universities. Manufacturing is the largest (60.1%) and fastest-growing (18.2%) sector of Tianjin's economy. Farmland takes up about 40% of Tianjin Municipality's total area. Wheat, rice, and maize are the most important crops. Fishing is important along the coast. Tianjin is also an important industrial base. Major industries include petrochemical industries, textiles, car manufacturing, mechanical industries, and metalworking.

The overall cost of living rank in Nicosia is 160 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with middle cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from Tianjin to Nicosia will experience a change in cost of living of 27.5%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Nicosia is ranked as a minimal hardship location with a hardship index of 10% compared to Tianjin with a hardship index of 30% which is a high degree of hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Havana

Today we look at moving to Havana in Cuba from Shenzhen in China. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.

In Havana people speak Spanish. In Shenzhen people speak Mandarin Chinese.
Havana is the capital city, major port, and leading commercial centre of Cuba. Shenzhen is a city of sub-provincial administrative status in southern China's Guangdong province, situated immediately north of Hong Kong.

Havana's economy first developed on the basis of its location, which made it one of the early great trade centres in the New World. Sugar and a flourishing slave trade first brought riches to the city, and later, after independence, it became a renowned resort. Despite efforts by Fidel Castro's government to spread Cuba's industrial activity to all parts of the island, Havana remains the centre of much of the nation's industry. Shenzhen is a major manufacturing centre in China and is home to some of China's most successful high-tech companies. Shenzhen's economic output is ranked fourth among Chinese cities after Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou.

The overall cost of living rank in Havana is 175 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with middle cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from Shenzhen to Havana will experience a change in cost of living of 11%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Havana is ranked as an extreme hardship location with a hardship index of 40% compared to Shenzhen with a hardship index of 30% which is a high degree of hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Zagreb

Today we look at moving to Zagreb in Croatia from Shanghai in China. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.

In Zagreb people speak Croatian. In Shanghai people speak Mandarin Chinese.
Zagreb is the capital and the largest city of the Republic of Croatia. Shanghai is the largest city in China, and one of the largest metropolitan areas in the world. Located on China's central eastern coast at the mouth of the Yangtze River, the city is administered as a municipality of the People's Republic of China with province-level status.

Zagreb's transport connections, concentration of industry, scientific and research institutions and industrial tradition underlie its leading economic position in Croatia. Shanghai is often regarded as the center of finance and trade in mainland China. Shanghai also hosts the largest share market in mainland China.

The overall cost of living rank in Zagreb is 58 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with high cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from Shanghai to Zagreb will experience a change in cost of living of -10.9%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Zagreb is ranked as a high degree of hardship location with a hardship index of 30% compared to Shanghai with a hardship index of 30% which is a high degree of hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Friday, July 29, 2011

Moving to Abidjan

Today we look at moving to Abidjan in Cote D'Ivoire from Macao in China. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In Abidjan people speak French and Indigenous languages. In Macao people speak Chinese (mainly Cantonese) and Portuguese (both official).

Abidjan is the economic and former official capital of Cote D'Ivoire as well as the largest city.  The Macao Special Administrative Region is one of the two special administrative regions of the People's Republic of China, the other being Hong Kong.
Abidjan is characterized by high industrialization and urbanization. Major industries include food processing, lumber, automobile manufacturing, and the manufacture of textiles, chemicals, and soap. Macao's economy is based largely on tourism, much of it geared toward gambling. Other chief economic activities in Macau are export-geared textile and garment manufacturing, banking and other financial services. The clothing industry has provided about three quarters of export earnings, and the gaming, tourism and hospitality industry is estimated to contribute more than 50% of Macau's GDP, and 70% of Macau government revenue.

The overall cost of living rank in Abidjan is 57 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with high cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from Macao to Abidjan will experience a change in cost of living of 55.9%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Abidjan is ranked as an extreme hardship location with a hardship index of 40% compared to Macao with a hardship index of 20% which is a some hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to San Jose

Today we look at moving to San Jose in Costa Rica from Hong Kong in China. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In San Jose people speak Spanish (official) and English. In Hong Kong people speak Chinese (mainly Cantonese) and English (both official).

San Jose is the capital and largest city of Costa Rica. Hong Kong is a special administrative region of the People's Republic of China.
San Jose is the seat of national government, the focal point of political and economic activity, and the major transportation hub of Costa Rica. Hong Kong's highly favorable geographical position and trading opportunities are wealth-generating assets.

The overall cost of living rank in San Jose is 212 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with low cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from Hong Kong to San Jose will experience a change in cost of living of -46.2%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, San Jose is ranked as a high degree of hardship location with a hardship index of 30% compared to Hong Kong with a hardship index of 20% which is a some hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Avarua

Today we look at moving to Avarua in Cook Islands from Guangzhou in China. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In Avarua people speak English and Cook Islands Maori. In Guangzhou people speak Mandarin Chinese.

Avarua is the capital and largest town in the Cook Islands. Guangzhou is a sub-provincial city and the capital of Guangdong Province in the southern part of the People's Republic of China.
Avarua has several supermarkets, two banks, several restaurants and other shops specializing in the sale of black pearls and other handicrafts. The economy is based on tourism, trade, fishing and agriculture. Guangzhou is the main manufacturing hub of the Pearl River Delta, one of mainland China's leading commercial and manufacturing regions. Guangzhou's economic output is ranked third among Chinese cities after Beijing and Shanghai.

The overall cost of living rank in Avarua is 91 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with high cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from Guangzhou to Avarua will experience a change in cost of living of 40.5%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Avarua is ranked as a high degree of hardship location with a hardship index of 30% compared to Guangzhou with a hardship index of 30% which is a high degree of hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Kinshasa

Today we look at moving to Kinshasa in Congo Democratic Rep from Dalian in China. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In Kinshasa people speak French, Lingala, Kiswahili, Kikongo and Tshiluba. In Dalian people speak Mandarin Chinese.

Kinshasa is the capital and largest city of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Dalian is the governing sub-provincial city in the eastern Liaoning Province of Northeast China.
Kinshasa ties with Johannesburg for the status of the second largest city in sub-Saharan Africa and the third largest in the whole continent after Lagos and Cairo. Because the administrative boundaries cover such a vast area, over 60% of the city's land is rural in nature, and the urban area only occupies a small section in the far western end of the province. The city has enjoyed a continuous double-digit increase in GDP since 1992. According to a nationwide appraisal by the National Bureau of Statistics, Dalian ranks eighth among Chinese cities in terms of overall strength. The city’s main industries include machine manufacturing, petrochemicals and oil refining, and electronics.

The overall cost of living rank in Kinshasa is 105 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with middle cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from Dalian to Kinshasa will experience a change in cost of living of 27.9%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Kinshasa is ranked as an extreme hardship location with a hardship index of 40% compared to Dalian with a hardship index of 30% which is a high degree of hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Thursday, July 28, 2011

Moving to Brazzaville

Today we look at moving to Brazzaville in Congo from Beijing in China. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In Brazzaville people speak French, indigenous African languages. In Beijing people speak Mandarin Chinese.

Brazzaville is the capital and largest city of the Republic of the Congo. Beijing is a metropolis in northern China and the capital of the People's Republic of China.
Over a third of the population of the Republic of Congo lives in the capital, and it is home to 40% of non-agricultural employment. It is also a financial and administrative capital. Industries present in Brazzaville include: machine shops, textiles, tanning, and manufacturing. As a key port on the Congo River, the city takes deliveries of raw materials, such as: rubber, wood and agricultural products. From here they are generally sent onward to Pointe-Noire for export. Beijing is amongst the most developed cities in China with tertiary industry accounting for 73.2% of its GDP. Finance is one of the most important industries of Beijing. Beijing is home to 26 Fortune Global 500 companies, the third most in the world behind Tokyo and Paris.

The overall cost of living rank in Brazzaville is 155 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with middle cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from Beijing to Brazzaville will experience a change in cost of living of -5.6%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Brazzaville is ranked as an extreme hardship location with a hardship index of 40% compared to Beijing with a hardship index of 30% which is a high degree of hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Moroni

Today we look at moving to Moroni in Comores from Santiago in Chile. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.

In Moroni people speak Arabic, French and Comoran (a blend of Swahili and Arabic). In Santiago people speak Spanish.
Moroni is the capital and largest city of the Comoros. Santiago is the capital and largest city of Chile.
Moroni has many excellent beaches. Exports include vanilla, cocoa, and coffee. Santiago is the industrial and financial centre of Chile, and generates almost half the country's GDP.

The overall cost of living rank in Moroni is 130 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with middle cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from Santiago to Moroni will experience a change in cost of living of -3.8%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Moroni is ranked as a high degree of hardship location with a hardship index of 30% the same as Santiago.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Bogota

Today we look at moving to Bogota in Colombia from N'Djamena in Chad. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In Bogota people speak Spanish. In N'Djamena people speak French and Arabic.
Bogota is the capital city of Colombia. N'Djamena is the capital city of Chad. It is also the largest city in the country.

Bogota is Colombia's largest economic center and most companies in Colombia have their headquarters in the city. Bogota is also a major center for the import and export of goods for Colombia and the Andean Community in Latin America. N'Djamena is a regional market for livestock, salt, dates, and grains. Meat, fish and cotton processing are the chief industries, and the city continues to serve as the centre of economic activity in Chad, despite the violent civil conflicts.

The overall cost of living rank in Bogota is 112 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with middle cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from N'Djamena to Bogota will experience a change in cost of living of -6.4%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Bogota is ranked as a high degree of hardship location with a hardship index of 30% compared to N'Djamena with a hardship index of 40% which is an extreme hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Wuhan

Today we look at moving to Wuhan in China from Bangui in Central African Republic. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In Wuhan people speak Mandarin Chinese. In Bangui people speak French and Sangho (lingua franca).

Wuhan is the capital of Hubei province, People's Republic of China, and is the most populous city in central China. Bangui is the capital of and the largest city in the Central African Republic.
Wuhan is an important center for economy, trade, finance, transportation, information technology, and education in Central China. Its major industries includes optic-electronic, automobile manufacturing, steel manufacturing, new pharmaceutical sector, biology engineering, new materials industry and environmental protection. Wuhan has over one third of French investment in China, the most among Chinese cities. Bangui serves as an administrative, trade, and commercial center.

The overall cost of living rank in Wuhan is 222 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with low cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from Bangui to Wuhan will experience a change in cost of living of -27.9%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Wuhan is ranked as a high degree of hardship location with a hardship index of 30% compared to Bangui with a hardship index of 40% which is an extreme hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

Moving to Tianjin

Today we look at moving to Tianjin in China from George Town in Cayman Islands. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In Tianjin people speak Mandarin Chinese. In George Town people speak English.

Tianjin is the sixth largest city of the People's Republic of China in terms of urban population. Administratively it is one of the four municipalities that have provincial-level status, reporting directly to the central government. Also, its urban land area is the fifth largest in China, ranked only after Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Shenzhen. George Town, Grand Cayman, is the capital of the Cayman Islands, in the British West Indies.
Manufacturing is the largest (60.1%) and fastest-growing (18.2%) sector of Tianjin's economy. Farmland takes up about 40% of Tianjin Municipality's total area. Wheat, rice, and maize are the most important crops. Fishing is important along the coast. Tianjin is also an important industrial base. Major industries include petrochemical industries, textiles, car manufacturing, mechanical industries, and metalworking. George Town is the heart of the Cayman Islands financial industry, with over 600 banks located there. Most of these are small one room operations, some having no physical location on the island at all. It also has cruise ship facilities and several shopping plazas.

The overall cost of living rank in Tianjin is 275 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with low cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from George Town to Tianjin will experience a change in cost of living of -29%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Tianjin is ranked as a high degree of hardship location with a hardship index of 30% compared to George Town with a hardship index of 20% which is a some hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Shenzhen

Today we look at moving to Shenzhen in China from Praia in Cape Verde. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.

In Shenzhen people speak Mandarin Chinese. In Praia people speak Portuguese and Crioulo (a mixture of archaic Portuguese and African words).
Shenzhen is a city of sub-provincial administrative status in southern China's Guangdong province, situated immediately north of Hong Kong. Praia is the capital and largest city of Cape Verde.
Shenzhen is a major manufacturing centre in China and is home to some of China's most successful high-tech companies. Shenzhen's economic output is ranked fourth among Chinese cities after Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou. Praia is Cape Verde’s largest city, a commercial center, and a port that ships coffee, sugar cane, and tropical fruits. Praia also has a fishing industry and there are resort beaches nearby.

The overall cost of living rank in Shenzhen is 224 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with low cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from Praia to Shenzhen will experience a change in cost of living of -14.8%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Shenzhen is ranked as a high degree of hardship location with a hardship index of 30% the same as Praia.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Shanghai

Today we look at moving to Shanghai in China from Vancouver in Canada. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In Shanghai people speak Mandarin Chinese. In Vancouver people speak English and French (both official).

Shanghai is the largest city in China, and one of the largest metropolitan areas in the world. Located on China's central eastern coast at the mouth of the Yangtze River, the city is administered as a municipality of the People's Republic of China with province-level status. Vancouver is a coastal city located in the Lower Mainland of British Columbia, Canada.
Shanghai is often regarded as the center of finance and trade in mainland China. Shanghai also hosts the largest share market in mainland China. With its location on the Pacific Rim and at the western terminus of Canada's transcontinental highway and rail routes, Vancouver is one of the nation's largest industrial centres. The Port of Vancouver, Canada's largest and most diversified, does trade with over 130 different economies annually. Vancouver is also the headquarters of forest product and mining companies. In recent years, Vancouver has become an increasingly important centre for software development, biotechnology and a vibrant film industry.

The overall cost of living rank in Shanghai is 21 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with high cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from Vancouver to Shanghai will experience a change in cost of living of 9.9%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Shanghai is ranked as a high degree of hardship location with a hardship index of 30% compared to Vancouver with a hardship index of 10% which is a minimal hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Macao

Today we look at moving to Macao in China from Toronto in Canada. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In Macao people speak Chinese (mainly Cantonese) and Portuguese (both official). In Toronto people speak English and French (both official).

The Macao Special Administrative Region is one of the two special administrative regions of the People's Republic of China, the other being Hong Kong. Toronto is the most populous city in Canada and the provincial capital of Ontario.
Macao's economy is based largely on tourism, much of it geared toward gambling. Other chief economic activities in Macau are export-geared textile and garment manufacturing, banking and other financial services. The clothing industry has provided about three quarters of export earnings, and the gaming, tourism and hospitality industry is estimated to contribute more than 50% of Macau's GDP, and 70% of Macau government revenue. Toronto is a major international centre for business and finance. Generally considered the financial capital of Canada, Toronto has a high concentration of banks and brokerage firms. The Toronto Stock Exchange is one of the world's largest. All of the Big Five banks of Canada are headquartered in Toronto, as are a majority of Canada's corporations.

The overall cost of living rank in Macao is 277 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with low cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from Toronto to Macao will experience a change in cost of living of -39%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Macao is ranked as a some hardship location with a hardship index of 20% compared to Toronto with a hardship index of 10% which is a minimal hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Tuesday, July 26, 2011

Moving to Hong Kong

Today we look at moving to Hong Kong in China from Ottawa in Canada. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.

In Hong Kong people speak Chinese (mainly Cantonese) and English (both official). In Ottawa people speak English and French (both official).
Hong Kong is a special administrative region of the People's Republic of China. Ottawa is the capital of Canada and a municipality within the Province of Ontario. Hong Kong's highly favorable geographical position and trading opportunities are wealth-generating assets. Ottawa's economy is dominated by the Canadian federal government and the hi-tech industry. Ottawa has become known as "Silicon Valley North.

The overall cost of living rank in Hong Kong is 5 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with high cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from Ottawa to Hong Kong will experience a change in cost of living of 48.7%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Hong Kong is ranked as a some hardship location with a hardship index of 20% compared to Ottawa with a hardship index of 10% which is a minimal hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Guangzhou

Today we look at moving to Guangzhou in China from Montreal in Canada. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In Guangzhou people speak Mandarin and Chinese. In Montreal people speak English and French (both official).

Guangzhou is a sub-provincial city and the capital of Guangdong Province in the southern part of the People's Republic of China. Montreal is the second-largest city in Canada and the largest city in the province of Quebec.
Guangzhou is the main manufacturing hub of the Pearl River Delta, one of mainland China's leading commercial and manufacturing regions. Guangzhou's economic output is ranked third among Chinese cities after Beijing and Shanghai. Montreal's economy is the second largest of all cities in Canada and the largest in Quebec. The city is today an important centre of commerce, finance, industry, technology, culture, and world affairs.

The overall cost of living rank in Guangzhou is 264 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with low cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from Montreal to Guangzhou will experience a change in cost of living of -31.5%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Guangzhou is ranked as a high degree of hardship location with a hardship index of 30% compared to Montreal with a hardship index of 10% which is a minimal hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Dalian

Today we look at moving to Dalian in China from Calgary in Canada. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In Dalian people speak Mandarin and Chinese. In Calgary people speak English and French (both official).

Dalian is the governing sub-provincial city in the eastern Liaoning Province of Northeast China. Calgary is the largest city in the Province of Alberta, Canada. The city has enjoyed a continuous double-digit increase in GDP since 1992.
According to a nationwide appraisal by the National Bureau of Statistics, Dalian ranks eighth among Chinese cities in terms of overall strength. The city’s main industries include machine manufacturing, petrochemicals and oil refining, and electronics. Calgary's economy while diverse is home to 87% of Canada's oil and natural gas producers and 66% of coal producers.

The overall cost of living rank in Dalian is 238 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with low cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from Calgary to Dalian will experience a change in cost of living of -29.2%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Dalian is ranked as a high degree of hardship location with a hardship index of 30% compared to Calgary with a hardship index of 10% which is a minimal hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Monday, July 25, 2011

Moving to Beijing

Today we look at moving to Beijing in China from Yaounde in Cameroon. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In Beijing people speak Mandarin and Chinese. In Yaounde people speak French, English, and the languages of Bantu, Semi-Bantu and Sudanic groups.

Beijing is a metropolis in northern China and the capital of the People's Republic of China. Yaounde is the capital city of Cameroon and second largest city in the country after Douala.
Beijing is amongst the most developed cities in China with tertiary industry accounting for 73.2% of its GDP. Finance is one of the most important industries of Beijing. Beijing is home to 26 Fortune Global 500 companies, the third most in the world behind Tokyo and Paris. Major industries in Yaounde include tobacco, dairy products, breweries, clay, glass goods, and lumber. It is also a regional distribution center for coffee, cocoa, copra, sugar cane, and rubber.

The overall cost of living rank in Beijing is 121 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with middle cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from Yaounde to Beijing will experience a change in cost of living of -7.4%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Beijing is ranked as a high degree of hardship location with a hardship index of 30% the same as Yaounde.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Santiago

Today we look at moving to Santiago in Chile from Douala in Cameroon. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In Douala people speak French, English, languages of the Bantu, Semi-Bantu and Sudanic groups. In Santiago people speak Spanish.

Douala is the largest city in Cameroon and the capital of Cameroon's Littoral Province. Santiago is the capital and largest city of Chile.
Douala is home to Cameroon's largest port and its major international airport, Douala Airport, it is the commercial capital of the country. Consequently, it handles most of the country's major exports, such as oil, cocoa and coffee, timber, metals and fruits.
Santiago is the industrial and financial centre of Chile, and generates almost half the country's GDP.

The overall cost of living rank in Douala is 79 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with high cost of living locations. An expatriate moving from Douala to Santiago which has an overall cost of living rank of 111, which equates it with middle cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of -7.8%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Santiago is ranked as a high degree of hardship location with a hardship index of 30% which is the same as Douala.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Sunday, July 24, 2011

Moving to N'Djamena

Today we look at moving to N'Djamena in Chad from Phnom Penh in Cambodia. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In Phnom Penh people speak Khmer. In N'Djamena people speak French and Arabic. Phnom Penh is the capital and largest city of Cambodia.

N'Djamena is the capital city of Chad. It is also the largest city in the country. Double-digit economic growth rates in recent years have triggered an economic boom, with new hotels, restaurants, bars, and residential buildings springing up around the city.
Phnom Penh's wealth of historical and cultural sites makes it a very popular tourist destination. N'Djamena is a regional market for livestock, salt, dates, and grains. Meat, fish and cotton processing are the chief industries, and the city continues to serve as the centre of economic activity in Chad, despite the violent civil conflicts.

The overall cost of living rank in Phnom Penh is 297 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with low cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from Phnom Penh to N'Djamena which has an overall cost of living rank of 85, which equates it with high cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of 73.5%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, N'Djamena is ranked as an extreme hardship location with a hardship index of 40% compared to Phnom Penh with a hardship index of 40% which is also an extreme hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Bangui

Today we look at moving to Bangui in Central African Republic from Bujumbura in Burundi. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In Bujumbura people speak Kirundi (official), French (official) and Swahili. In Bangui people speak French and Sangho (lingua franca).

Bujumbura is the capital city and main port of Burundi. Bangui is the capital of and the largest city in the Central African Republic. Bujumbura's port ships most of the country's chief export, coffee, as well as cotton, skins, and tin ore. Bangui serves as an administrative, trade, and commercial center.

The overall cost of living rank in Bujumbura is 269 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with low cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from Bujumbura to Bangui which has an overall cost of living rank of 54, which equates it with high cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of 52.1%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Bangui is ranked as an extreme hardship location with a hardship index of 40% compared to Bujumbura with a hardship index of 40% which is an extreme hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Saturday, July 23, 2011

Moving to George Town

Today we look at moving to George Town in Cayman Islands from Ouagadougou in Burkina Faso. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In Ouagadougou people speak French and indigenous languages. In George Town people speak English.

Ouagadougou is the capital of Burkina Faso and the administrative, communications, cultural and economic center of the nation. It is also the country's largest city.
George Town, Grand Cayman, is the capital of the Cayman Islands, in the British West Indies. Ouagadougou's primary industries are food processing and textiles. George Town is the heart of the Cayman Islands financial industry, with over 600 banks located there. Most of these are small one room operations, some having no physical location on the island at all. It also has cruise ship facilities and several shopping plazas.

The overall cost of living rank in Ouagadougou is 136 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with middle cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from Ouagadougou to George Town which has an overall cost of living rank of 104, which equates it with middle cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of 6.9%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, George Town is ranked as a some hardship location with a hardship index of 20% compared to Ouagadougou with a hardship index of 40% which is an extreme hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Praia

Today we look at moving to Praia in Cape Verde from Sofia in Bulgaria. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In Sofia people speak Bulgarian. In Praia people speak Portuguese and Crioulo, a mixture of archaic Portuguese and African words.

Sofia is the capital and largest city of Bulgaria. Praia is the capital and largest city of Cape Verde. Sofia is the major economic center of Bulgaria and home to most major Bulgarian and international companies operating in Bulgaria. Sofia is also the country's financial hub. Praia is Cape Verde’s largest city, a commercial center, and a port that ships coffee, sugar cane, and tropical fruits. Praia also has a fishing industry and there are resort beaches nearby.

The overall cost of living rank in Sofia is 244 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with low cost of living locations.  An expatriate moving from Sofia to Praia which has an overall cost of living rank of 134, which equates it with middle cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of 21.6%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Praia is ranked as a high degree of hardship location with a hardship index of 30% compared to Sofia with a hardship index of 30% which is a high degree of hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Toronto

Today we look at moving to Toronto in Canada from Sao Paulo in Brazil. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In Sao Paulo people speak Portuguese. In Toronto people speak English and French (both official). Sao Paulo, the capital of the state of Sao Paulo, is largest city in Brazil, the largest city in the southern hemisphere, and the world's 7th largest metropolitan area.

Toronto is the most populous city in Canada and the provincial capital of Ontario. Sao Paulo's economy has traditionally been industrial, but it has become increasingly based on the tertiary sector, focusing on services and businesses for the country and is the Brazilian HQ for a large number of foreign corporations. Toronto is a major international centre for business and finance. Generally considered the financial capital of Canada, Toronto has a high concentration of banks and brokerage firms. The Toronto Stock Exchange is one of the world's largest. All of the Big Five banks of Canada are headquartered in Toronto, as are a majority of Canada's corporations.

The overall cost of living rank in Sao Paulo is 2 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with high cost of living locations. An expatriate moving from Sao Paulo to Toronto which has an overall cost of living rank of 33, which equates it with high cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of -26.5%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Toronto is ranked as a minimal hardship location with a hardship index of 10% compared to Sao Paulo with a hardship index of 20% which is a some hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Friday, July 22, 2011

Moving to Ottawa

Today we look at moving to Ottawa in Canada from Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In Rio de Janeiro people speak Portuguese. In Ottawa people speak English and French (both official). Rio, is the capital city of the State of Rio de Janeiro, the second largest city of Brazil. Ottawa is the capital of Canada and a municipality within the Province of Ontario.

Rio de Janeiro is the 2nd largest regional economy in Brazil, and the city has a robust and highly diversified economy, providing large-scale employment in heavy and light industry, manufacturing, commerce, finance, trade, and other service sectors.
Ottawa's economy is dominated by the Canadian federal government and the hi-tech industry. Ottawa has become known as "Silicon Valley North.

The overall cost of living rank in Rio de Janeiro is 6 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with high cost of living locations. An expatriate moving from Rio de Janeiro to Ottawa which has an overall cost of living rank of 94, which equates it with middle cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of -32.5%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Ottawa is ranked as a minimal hardship location with a hardship index of 10% compared to Rio de Janeiro with a hardship index of 20% which is a some hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Montreal

Today we look at moving to Montreal in Canada from Brasilia in Brazil. We highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced in our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations.
In Brasilia people speak Portuguese. In Montreal people speak English and French (both official).

Brasília is the capital of Brazil. Montreal is the second-largest city in Canada and the largest city in the province of Quebec. The major roles of construction and of services (government, communications, banking and finance, food production, entertainment, and legal services) in Brasília's economy reflect the city's status as a governmental rather than an industrial centre.
Montreal's economy is the second largest of all cities in Canada and the largest in Quebec. The city is today an important centre of commerce, finance, industry, technology, culture, and world affairs.

The overall cost of living rank in Brasilia is 7 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with high cost of living locations. An expatriate moving from Brasilia to Montreal which has an overall cost of living rank of 74, which equates it with high cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of -26%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Montreal is ranked as a minimal hardship location with a hardship index of 10% compared to Brasilia with a hardship index of 20% which is a some hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Thursday, July 21, 2011

Moving to Calgary

In our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations, we highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced.
Today we look at moving to Calgary in Canada from Gaborone in Botswana.
In Gaborone people speak English (official) and Setswana. In Calgary people speak English and French (both official).

Gaborone, is the capital and largest city of Botswana.
Calgary is the largest city in the Province of Alberta, Canada.
Gaborone is the center of the national economy. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has its headquarters in Gaborone.
Calgary's economy while diverse is home to 87% of Canada's oil and natural gas producers and 66% of coal producers.

The overall cost of living rank in Gaborone is 210 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with low cost of living locations. An expatriate moving from Gaborone to Calgary which has an overall cost of living rank of 60, which equates it with high cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of 33.8%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Calgary is ranked as a minimal hardship location with a hardship index of 10% compared to Gaborone with a hardship index of 20% which is a some hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Yaounde

In our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations, we highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced.
Today we look at moving to Yaounde in Cameroon from Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
In Sarajevo people speak Bosnian, Croatian and Serbian. In Yaounde people speak French, English, languages of Bantu, Semi-Bantu and Sudanic groups.

Sarajevo is the capital and largest city of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Yaounde is the capital city of Cameroon and second largest city in the country after Douala.
The economy of Sarajevo has been subject to reconstruction and rehabilitation programs after years of war. Amongst other economic landmarks, the Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina opened in Sarajevo in 1997 and the Sarajevo Stock Exchange began trading in 2002. The city's large manufacturing, administration, and tourism base, combined with a large informal market, makes it one of the strongest economic regions of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Major industries in Yaounde include tobacco, dairy products, breweries, clay, glass goods, and lumber. It is also a regional distribution center for coffee, cocoa, copra, sugar cane, and rubber.

The overall cost of living rank in Sarajevo is 266 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with low cost of living locations. An expatriate moving from Sarajevo to Yaounde which has an overall cost of living rank of 89, which equates it with high cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of 42.1%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Yaounde is ranked as a high degree of hardship location with a hardship index of 30% compared to Sarajevo with a hardship index of 40% which is an extreme hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Wednesday, July 20, 2011

Moving to Douala

In our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations, we highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced.
Today we look at moving to Douala in Cameroon from La Paz in Bolivia. In La Paz people speak Spanish, Quechua, Aymara and Guarani. In Douala people speak French, English, languages of Bantu, Semi-Bantu and Sudanic groups.

La Paz is the administrative capital of Bolivia.
Douala is the largest city in Cameroon and the capital of Cameroon's Littoral Province.
The economy of La Paz has improved greatly in recent years. Due to the long period of high inflation and economic struggle faced by Bolivians in the 1980s and early 1990s, a large Informal Economy developed.
Douala is home to Cameroon's largest port and its major international airport, Douala Airport, it is the commercial capital of the country. Consequently, it handles most of the country's major exports, such as oil, cocoa and coffee, timber, metals and fruits.

The overall cost of living rank in La Paz is 294 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with low cost of living locations. An expatriate moving from La Paz to Douala which has an overall cost of living rank of 79, which equates it with high cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of 63.4%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Douala is ranked as a high degree of hardship location with a hardship index of 30% compared to La Paz with a hardship index of 40% which is an extreme hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Phnom Penh

In our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations, we highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced.
Today we look at moving to Phnom Penh in Cambodia from Thimphu in Bhutan. In Thimphu people speak Dzongkha (official). In Phnom Penh people speak Khmer.
Thimphu is the capital and largest city of Bhutan. Phnom Penh is the capital and largest city of Cambodia.

Thimphu became a town in 1961 and grew as the capital of Bhutan. Before 1960, Thimphu was a small settlement but was developed by the King Jigme Dorje Wangchuk to replace the ancient capital of Punakha. Rapid expansion following the pattern of rural exodus has resulted in considerable rebuilding in the city centre and mushrooming suburban development elsewhere. Double-digit economic growth rates in recent years have triggered an economic boom, with new hotels, restaurants, bars, and residential buildings springing up around the city.
Phnom Penh's wealth of historical and cultural sites makes it a very popular tourist destination.

The overall cost of living rank in Thimphu is 300 out of 300 global locations, which makes it the lowest cost of living location. An expatriate moving from Thimphu to Phnom Penh which has an overall cost of living rank of 297, which equates it with low cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of 4.4%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Phnom Penh is ranked as an extreme hardship location with a hardship index of 40% compared to Thimphu with a hardship index of 40% which is an extreme hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Moving to Bujumbura

In our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations, we highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced.
Today we look at moving to Bujumbura in Burundi from Hamilton in Bermuda. In Hamilton people speak English and Portuguese. In Bujumbura people speak Kirundi (official), French (official) and Swahili.

Hamilton is located on the north side of Hamilton Harbour, and is Bermuda's main port. Although there is a parish of the same name, the city of Hamilton is in the parish of Pembroke.
Bujumbura is the capital city and main port of Burundi.
Finance and international business now constitute the largest sector of Bermuda's economy, and virtually all of this business takes place within the borders of Hamilton.
Bujumbura's port ships most of the country's chief export, coffee, as well as cotton, skins, and tin ore.

The overall cost of living rank in Hamilton is 92 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with middle cost of living locations. An expatriate moving from Hamilton to Bujumbura which has an overall cost of living rank of 269, which equates it with low cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of -29%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Bujumbura is ranked as an extreme hardship location with a hardship index of 40% compared to Hamilton with a hardship index of 20% which is a some hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Ouagadougou

In our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations, we highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced.
Today we look at moving to Ouagadougou in Burkina Faso from Cotonou in Benin. In Cotonou people speak French (official) Fon, Ge, Bariba, Yoruba and Dendi. In Ouagadougou people speak French, indigenous languages.

Cotonou is the economic capital of Benin, as well as its largest city. Ouagadougou is the capital of Burkina Faso and the administrative, communications, cultural and economic center of the nation. It is also the country's largest city.
Cotonou is Benin's largest city and houses many of its government and diplomatic services. The city is a major port, and is also home to an airport and a railway that links to Parakou.
Ouagadougou's primary industries are food processing and textiles.

The overall cost of living rank in Cotonou is 169 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with middle cost of living locations. An expatriate moving from Cotonou to Ouagadougou which has an overall cost of living rank of 136, which equates it with middle cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of 4.9%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Ouagadougou is ranked as an extreme hardship location with a hardship index of 40% compared to Cotonou with a hardship index of 40% which is an extreme hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Monday, July 18, 2011

Moving to Sofia

In our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations, we highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced.
Today we look at moving to Sofia in Bulgaria from Belmopan in Belize. In Belmopan people speak English (official), Spanish, Mayan, Garifuna (Carib) and Creole. In Sofia people speak Bulgarian.
Belmopan is the capital of Belize. Sofia is the capital and largest city of Bulgaria.

Belmopan is the seat of government. As a result many of its inhabitants work for the national government in various administrative or technical roles. Belmopan currently has business establishments, international banks, several local financial institutions, a modern bus terminal and market complex.
Sofia is the major economic center of Bulgaria and home to most major Bulgarian and international companies operating in Bulgaria. Sofia is also the country's financial hub.

The overall cost of living rank in Belmopan is 274 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with low cost of living locations. An expatriate moving from Belmopan to Sofia which has an overall cost of living rank of 244, which equates it with low cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of 7.8%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Sofia is ranked as a high degree of hardship location with a hardship index of 30% compared to Belmopan with a hardship index of 40% which is an extreme hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Bandar Seri Begawan

In our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations, we highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced.
Today we look at moving to Bandar Seri Begawan in Brunei from Brussels in Belgium.
In Brussels people speak Dutch (local variant called Flemish), French and German. In Bandar Seri Begawan people speak Malay, English and Chinese.

Brussels is the de facto capital city of the European Union (EU) and the largest urban area in Belgium.
Bandar Seri Begawan is the capital and largest city of the Sultanate of Brunei.
Serving as the centre of administration for Europe, Brussels' economy is largely service-oriented. It is dominated by regional and world headquarters of multinationals, by European institutions, by various administrations, and by related services, though it does have a number of notable craft industries, such as the Cantillon Brewery, a lambic brewery founded in 1900.
Bandar Seri Begawan produces furniture, textiles, handicrafts, and timber.

The overall cost of living rank in Brussels is 45 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with high cost of living locations. An expatriate moving from Brussels to Bandar Seri Begawan which has an overall cost of living rank of 152, which equates it with middle cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of -19.4%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Bandar Seri Begawan is ranked as a high degree of hardship location with a hardship index of 30% compared to Brussels with a hardship index of 10% which is a minimal hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Sunday, July 17, 2011

Moving to Sao Paulo

In our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations, we highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced.
Today we look at moving to Sao Paulo in Brazil from Minsk in Belarus.
In Minsk people speak Russian and Belarussian (both official). In Sao Paulo people speak Portuguese.

Minsk is the capital and largest city in Belarus. Sao Paulo, the capital of the state of Sao Paulo, is largest city in Brazil, the largest city in the southern hemisphere, and the world's 7th largest metropolitan area.
Minsk is the economic capital of Belarus. It has developed industrial and services sectors.
Sao Paulo's economy has traditionally been industrial, but it has become increasingly based on the tertiary sector, focusing on services and businesses for the country and is the Brazilian HQ for a large number of foreign corporations.

The overall cost of living rank in Minsk is 185 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with low cost of living locations. An expatriate moving from Minsk to Sao Paulo which has an overall cost of living rank of 2, which equates it with high cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of 80.2%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Sao Paulo is ranked as a some hardship location with a hardship index of 20% compared to Minsk with a hardship index of 30% which is a high degree of hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Rio de Janeiro

In our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations, we highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced.
Today we look at moving to Rio de Janeiro in Brazil from Bridgetown in Barbados.
In Bridgetown people speak English (Bajan, an English-African dialect, is widely used). In Rio de Janeiro people speak Portuguese.

The City of Bridgetown is the capital and largest city of the nation of Barbados.
Rio, is the capital city of the State of Rio de Janeiro, the second largest city of Brazil. Bridgetown is a major West Indies tourist destination, and the city acts as an important financial, informatics and convention centre in the Caribbean region. Rio de Janeiro is the 2nd largest regional economy in Brazil, and the city has a robust and highly diversified economy, providing large-scale employment in heavy and light industry, manufacturing, commerce, finance, trade, and other service sectors.

The overall cost of living rank in Bridgetown is 97 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with middle cost of living locations. An expatriate moving from Bridgetown to Rio de Janeiro which has an overall cost of living rank of 6, which equates it with high cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of 48.8%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Rio de Janeiro is ranked as a some hardship location with a hardship index of 20% compared to Bridgetown with a hardship index of 20% which is a some hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Brasilia

In our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations, we highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced.

Today we look at moving to Brasilia in Brazil from Dhaka in Bangladesh.
In Dhaka people speak Bengali. In Brasilia people speak Portuguese.
Dhaka is the capital of Bangladesh and the principal city of Dhaka District. Brasília is the capital of Brazil.

Dhaka is the commercial heart of Bangladesh. The city has a growing middle class population, driving the market for modern consumer and luxury goods. The city has historically attracted a large number of migrant workers.
The major roles of construction and of services (government, communications, banking and finance, food production, entertainment, and legal services) in Brasília's economy reflect the city's status as a governmental rather than an industrial centre.

The overall cost of living rank in Dhaka is 290 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with low cost of living locations. An expatriate moving from Dhaka to Brasilia which has an overall cost of living rank of 7, which equates it with high cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of 118.3%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Brasilia is ranked as a some hardship location with a hardship index of 20% compared to Dhaka with a hardship index of 40% which is an extreme hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Saturday, July 16, 2011

Moving to Gaborone

In our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations, we highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced.

Today we look at moving to Gaborone in Botswana from Manama in Bahrain.
In Manama people speak Arabic. In Gaborone people speak English (official) and Setswana.
Manama is the capital and largest city of Bahrain.
Gaborone, is the capital and largest city of Botswana.
Manama is the focal point of the Bahraini economy. Several multinationals have facilities and offices in and around Manama. The economic base for Manama itself is financial services, with over two hundred financial institutions and banks based in the CBD and the Diplomatic Area.
Gaborone is the center of the national economy. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has its headquarters in Gaborone.

The overall cost of living rank in Manama is 109 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with middle cost of living locations. An expatriate moving from Manama to Gaborone which has an overall cost of living rank of 210, which equates it with low cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of -16.4%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Gaborone is ranked as a some hardship location with a hardship index of 20% compared to Manama with a hardship index of 30% which is a high degree of hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Sarajevo

In our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations, we highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced.
Today we look at moving to Sarajevo in Bosnia and Herzegovina from Nassau in Bahamas.
In Nassau people speak English. In Sarajevo people speak Bosnian, Croatian and Serbian.
Nassau is the capital, largest city, and commercial centre of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas.

Sarajevo is the capital and largest city of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Nassau has nearly 80 percent of the entire population of The Bahamas. The city is located on the island of New Providence, which functions much like a federal district. While there is no local government, it is governed directly as an administrative division of the national government .
The economy of Sarajevo has been subject to reconstruction and rehabilitation programs after years of war. Amongst other economic landmarks, the Central Bank of Bosnia and Herzegovina opened in Sarajevo in 1997 and the Sarajevo Stock Exchange began trading in 2002. The city's large manufacturing, administration, and tourism base, combined with a large informal market, makes it one of the strongest economic regions of Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The overall cost of living rank in Nassau is 63 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with high cost of living locations. An expatriate moving from Nassau to Sarajevo which has an overall cost of living rank of 266, which equates it with low cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of -33.2%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Sarajevo is ranked as an extreme hardship location with a hardship index of 40% compared to Nassau with a hardship index of 20% which is a some hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Friday, July 15, 2011

Moving to La Paz

In our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations, we highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced.
Today we look at moving to La Paz in Bolivia from Baku in Azerbaijan.
In Baku people speak Azeri and Russian. In La Paz people speak Spanish, Quechua, Aymara and Guarani.
Baku is the capital, the largest city, and the largest port of Azerbaijan and all the Caucasus.
La Paz is the administrative capital of Bolivia.

The basis of Baku's economy is petroleum. The existence of petroleum has been known since the 8th century. The World War II Battle of Stalingrad was fought to determine who would have control of the Baku oil fields. Fifty years before the battle, Baku produced half of the world's oil supply. Currently the oil economy of Baku is undergoing a resurgence.
The economy of La Paz has improved greatly in recent years. Due to the long period of high inflation and economic struggle faced by Bolivians in the 1980s and early 1990s, a large Informal Economy developed. The overall cost of living rank in Baku is 82 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with high cost of living locations.

An expatriate moving from Baku to La Paz which has an overall cost of living rank of 294, which equates it with low cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of -38.6%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, La Paz is ranked as an extreme hardship location with a hardship index of 40% compared to Baku with a hardship index of 40% which is an extreme hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Thimphu

In our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations, we highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced.
Today we look at moving to Thimphu in Bhutan from Vienna in Austria.
In Vienna people speak German. In Thimphu people speak Dzongkha (official).

Vienna is the capital of the Republic of Austria and also one of the nine states of Austria. Vienna is Austria's primary city, and is by far the largest city in Austria, as well as its cultural, economic, and political centre. Thimphu is the capital and largest city of Bhutan.
Vienna, is home to key international organisations, including the Organisation for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE), the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and Opec, the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries.

Thimphu became a town in 1961 and grew as the capital of Bhutan. Before 1960, Thimphu was a small settlement but was developed by the King Jigme Dorje Wangchuk to replace the ancient capital of Punakha. Rapid expansion following the pattern of rural exodus has resulted in considerable rebuilding in the city centre and mushrooming suburban development elsewhere.

The overall cost of living rank in Vienna is 30 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with high cost of living locations. An expatriate moving from Vienna to Thimphu which has an overall cost of living rank of 300, which equates it with low cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of -50.8%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Thimphu is ranked as an extreme hardship location with a hardship index of 40% compared to Vienna with a hardship index of 10% which is a minimal hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Hamilton

In our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations, we highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced.
Today we look at moving to Hamilton in Bermuda from Sydney in Australia. In Sydney people speak English. In Hamilton people speak English and Portuguese.
Sydney is the largest city in Australia, and the state capital of New South Wales. Hamilton is located on the north side of Hamilton Harbour, and is Bermuda's main port.

Although there is a parish of the same name, the city of Hamilton is in the parish of Pembroke. The largest economic sectors in Sydney, as measured by the number of people employed, include property and business services, retail, manufacturing, and health and community services. Since the 1980s, jobs have moved from manufacturing to the services and information sectors. Sydney provides approximately 25 percent of the country's total GDP.
Finance and international business now constitute the largest sector of Bermuda's economy, and virtually all of this business takes place within the borders of Hamilton.

The overall cost of living rank in Sydney is 12 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with high cost of living locations. An expatriate moving from Sydney to Hamilton which has an overall cost of living rank of 92, which equates it with middle cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of -24%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Hamilton is ranked as a some hardship location with a hardship index of 20% compared to Sydney with a hardship index of 10% which is a minimal hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Thursday, July 14, 2011

Moving to Cotonou

In our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations, we highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced.
Today we look at moving to Cotonou in Benin from Perth in Australia.
In Perth people speak English. In Cotonou people speak French (official) Fon, Ge, Bariba, Yoruba and Dendi.

Perth is the capital and largest city of the Australian state of Western Australia. Perth ranks fourth amongst the nation's cities, with a growth rate consistently above the national average. Cotonou is the economic capital of Benin, as well as its largest city.

Perth dominates the Western Australian economy by virtue of its population and role as the administrative centre for business and government, despite the major mining, petroleum and agricultural export industries located elsewhere in the state. Perth’s function as the State’s capital city, its economic base and population size have also created development opportunities for many other businesses oriented to local or more diversified markets.
Cotonou is Benin's largest city and houses many of its government and diplomatic services. The city is a major port, and is also home to an airport and a railway that links to Parakou.

The overall cost of living rank in Perth is 18 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with high cost of living locations. An expatriate moving from Perth to Cotonou which has an overall cost of living rank of 169, which equates it with middle cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of -29%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Cotonou is ranked as an extreme hardship location with a hardship index of 40% compared to Perth with a hardship index of 10% which is a minimal hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Belmopan

In our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations, we highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced.
Today we look at moving to Belmopan in Belize from Melbourne in Australia.
In Melbourne people speak English. In Belmopan people speak English (official), Spanish, Mayan, Garifuna (Carib) and Creole.

Melbourne is the capital and most populous city in the state of Victoria, and is the second most populous city in Australia. Belmopan is the capital of Belize. Melbourne is home to Australia's busiest seaport and much of Australia's automotive industry, which include Ford and Toyota manufacturing facilities, and the engine manufacturing facility of Holden. It is home to many other manufacturing industries, along with being a major business and financial centre.
Belmopan is the seat of government. As a result many of its inhabitants work for the national government in various administrative or technical roles. Belmopan currently has business establishments, international banks, several local financial institutions, a modern bus terminal and market complex.

The overall cost of living rank in Melbourne is 17 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with high cost of living locations. An expatriate moving from Melbourne to Belmopan which has an overall cost of living rank of 274, which equates it with low cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of -43.1%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Belmopan is ranked as an extreme hardship location with a hardship index of 40% compared to Melbourne with a hardship index of 10% which is a minimal hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Brussels

In our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations, we highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced.
Today we look at moving to Brussels in Belgium from Canberra in Australia. In Canberra people speak English. In Brussels people speak Dutch (local variant called Flemish), French and German.

Canberra is the capital city of Australia and is Australia's largest inland city and the eighth largest Australian city overall. Brussels is the de facto capital city of the European Union (EU) and the largest urban area in Belgium. Canberra's main industry is government administration and defence employing over 40% of Canberra's workforce. The unemployment rate in Canberra is well below the national unemployment rate, with labour shortages reported in some sectors. As a result of low unemployment and substantial levels of public sector and commercial employment, Canberra has the highest average disposable income of any Australian capital city.

Serving as the centre of administration for Europe, Brussels' economy is largely service-oriented. It is dominated by regional and world headquarters of multinationals, by European institutions, by various administrations, and by related services, though it does have a number of notable craft industries, such as the Cantillon Brewery, a lambic brewery founded in 1900.

The overall cost of living rank in Canberra is 15 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with high cost of living locations. An expatriate moving from Canberra to Brussels which has an overall cost of living rank of 45, which equates it with high cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of -13.7%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Brussels is ranked as a minimal hardship location with a hardship index of 10% compared to Canberra with a hardship index of 10% which is a minimal hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Wednesday, July 13, 2011

Moving to Minsk

In our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations, we highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced.
Today we look at moving to Minsk in Belarus from Brisbane in Australia.
In Brisbane people speak English. In Minsk people speak Russian and Belarussian (both official).

Brisbane is the state capital of the Australian state of Queensland and is the largest city in that state. Brisbane is the third most populous city in Australia. Minsk is the capital and largest city in Belarus. Brisbane's economy is diverse. White-collar industries include information technology, financial services, higher education and public sector administration generally concentrated in and around the central business district and recently established office areas in the inner suburbs. Blue-collar industries, including petroleum refining, stevedoring, paper milling, metalworking and QR railway workshops, tend to be located on the lower reaches of the Brisbane River and in new industrial zones on the urban fringe. Tourism is an important part of the Brisbane economy, both in its own right and as a gateway to other areas of Queensland.
Minsk is the economic capital of Belarus. It has developed industrial and services sectors.

The overall cost of living rank in Brisbane is 29 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with high cost of living locations. An expatriate moving from Brisbane to Minsk which has an overall cost of living rank of 185, which equates it with low cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of -25.6%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Minsk is ranked as a high degree of hardship location with a hardship index of 30% compared to Brisbane with a hardship index of 10% which is a minimal hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Bridgetown

In our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations, we highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced.
Today we look at moving to Bridgetown in Barbados from Adelaide in Australia. In Adelaide people speak English. In Bridgetown people speak English and Bajan, an English-African dialect.
Adelaide is the capital and most populous city of the Australian state of South Australia, and is the fifth-largest city in Australia.

The City of Bridgetown is the capital and largest city of the nation of Barbados. Adelaide's economy is primarily based around manufacturing, defence technology and research, commodity export and corresponding service industries. It has large manufacturing, defence and research zones. They contain car manufacturing plants for General Motors Holden, and plants that produce electronic systems that are sold worldwide for applications in medical, communications, defence, automotive, food and wine processing and industrial sectors. The revenue of Adelaide's electronics industry has grown at over 15% per year since 1990. The electronics industry in Adelaide employs over 13,000 people, which is more than the automotive industry. Almost half of all cars produced in Australia are made in Adelaide.
Bridgetown is a major West Indies tourist destination, and the city acts as an important financial, informatics and convention centre in the Caribbean region.

The overall cost of living rank in Adelaide is 48 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with high cost of living locations.
An expatriate moving from Adelaide to Bridgetown which has an overall cost of living rank of 97, which equates it with middle cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of -9.7%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Bridgetown is ranked as a some hardship location with a hardship index of 20% compared to Adelaide with a hardship index of 10% which is a minimal hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Moving to Dhaka

In our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations, we highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced.
Today we look at moving to Dhaka in Bangladesh from Yerevan in Armenia. In Yerevan people speak Armenian and Russian. In Dhaka people speak Bengali.
Yerevan is the capital and largest city of Armenia and one of the world's oldest continuously-inhabited cities. It is the administrative, cultural, and industrial center of the country.

Dhaka is the capital of Bangladesh and the principal city of Dhaka District. Yerevan's share of national industrial production is approximately 50%. Yerevan's manufactures include chemicals, primary metals, machinery, rubber products, plastics, textiles, and processed food. Even though the economic crisis of the 90s ravaged the industry of the country, several factories remain always in service, notably in the petrochemical and the aluminium sectors. Dhaka is the commercial heart of Bangladesh. The city has a growing middle class population, driving the market for modern consumer and luxury goods. The city has historically attracted a large number of migrant workers.

The overall cost of living rank in Yerevan is 213 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with low cost of living locations. An expatriate moving from Yerevan to Dhaka which has an overall cost of living rank of 290, which equates it with low cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of -18%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Dhaka is ranked as an extreme hardship location with a hardship index of 40% compared to Yerevan with a hardship index of 40% which is an extreme hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Moving to Manama

In our series of short blogs on moving between different international locations, we highlight cost of living and other major differences likely to be experienced.
Today we look at moving to Manama in Bahrain from Buenos Aires in Argentina.
In Buenos Aires people speak Spanish. In Manama people speak Arabic.
Buenos Aires is the capital, and largest city, of Argentina, currently the second-largest metropolitan area in South America, after São Paulo.
Manama is the capital and largest city of Bahrain.

Buenos Aires is the financial, industrial, commercial, and cultural hub of Argentina. Its port is one of the busiest in South America; navigable rivers by way of the Rio de la Plata connect the port to north-east Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay and Paraguay. As a result it serves as the distribution hub for a vast area of the south-eastern region of the continent. Tax collection related to the port has caused many political problems in the past.
Manama is the focal point of the Bahraini economy. Several multinationals have facilities and offices in and around Manama. The economic base for Manama itself is financial services, with over two hundred financial institutions and banks based in the CBD and the Diplomatic Area.

The overall cost of living rank in Buenos Aires is 235 out of 300 global locations, which equates it with low cost of living locations. An expatriate moving from Buenos Aires to Manama which has an overall cost of living rank of 109, which equates it with middle cost of living locations, will experience a change in cost of living of 25.6%.
In terms of the hardship people are likely to experience, assessed in global terms, Manama is ranked as a high degree of hardship location with a hardship index of 30% compared to Buenos Aires with a hardship index of 20% which is a some hardship location.

Source: http://www.xpatulator.com as at July 2011.