We are a small family - two kids, a 2 yr old and an infant. I am moving in first and wife & kids will follow soon.
Had a few questions and am hoping some of you can answer!
This is July 2009 and monthly expense figures would really help...I am yet to freeze on remuneration, and am hoping that your answers would help me take a more informed decision.
1. Whats the cost of renting a three-bedroom fully furnished apartment? What does "fully furnished" mean in Nairobi!? How much do agents charge?
2. How much would a good family car cost and are Indian driver's license valid? How does an expat get a local license? How much should one budget for fuel if driving is moderate (work and city driving mostly)?
3. Safe to drive around Nairobi or are drivers/chauffeurs a better idea? How much do they cost?
4. How good is domestic help + a nanny and how much do they cost?
5. Typical cost of living per month for a family of 4, including a toddler in play school? Are there good play schools around and how much does schooling cost?
6. What are the essentials to carry? We are used to printed prices and reasonable pricing. Can we expect the same?
7. How good is medical care, especially for toddlers? Are hospitals safe, considering rampant HIV et al?
8. What are the options available for Internet and how much does internet cost? Is broadband common? If yes, then what speeds do you get?
9. Are mobile tariffs high? How about calling cards and such else?
10. Tips on safety & security - is it safe for a woman to drive around? Do we need private security at home? Is the local police efficient?
11. How reliable and expensive are utilities like water, electricity etc?
12. What options does one have w.r.t. eating out, partying and such else..?
13. Finally, How stable is the country politically and economically and how does the future look?
Lots of questions there! But this is a big decision for us and we are really looking forward to this assignment and planning to stay for at least five years.
Thanks in advance for helping out! Any and all help would be highly appreciated!