Bangalore
 

I have just registered for this forum.

I have recently pursued interest in a 12-24 month opportunity to work in Bangalore for my current employer. The package is very appealing and having read some links on the interest, the lifestyle looks amazing.

Looking for some first hand knowledge from any expats who are out in the area. Looking for the full story from food, socialising, shopping, electronic advice (mobile phones etc.), sport in the area, culture, language barrier etc.

I'm in my late 20's and would be moving with my partner. She won't be working so what opportunities is there for her to meet new friends etc?

Re: Bangalore
 

Hello Mitch. we do not live in Bangalore but have relatives there and visit quite often.
Bangalore is a large and ever spreading city and cosmopolitan in some areas, so the first question is where will you be situated?
Your employer I presume will be providing accommodation so questions about sport, shopping, expats etc. will depend on that.
Most, if not all, educated people will speak English.
Mobile phones, as everywhere in India -- complicated for a foreigner regarding info. to give for security, but then no problem. (Every Indian person however poor possesses a mobile!!!)

Re: Bangalore
 

I'm going to be living in a gated community, with my own car and driver so getting around should be fine. I don't have the details of the gated community at the moment.

Is it best to pick up an Indian SIM for my current iPhone in India?

I'm a massive football fan and hoping that I can still keep up to date with UK sport.

Do you have any comments around the cost of living? I will get a lot of advice and support from my employer but good to hear first hand!

Re: Bangalore
 

As above, you really need to know which area of the city you will be living.

Gated communities are usually occupied by well -off people, with a clubhouse/gym etc. So there will be plenty of opportunities for friendships, not necessarily expats though.
Usually these communities have group contracts for electricity/gas supplies etc. and sometimes gardeners or other staff.

Cost of living --the accommodation is the most worry, so for you that is not a problem. Food it depends what you want, local food will be far cheaper than UK, but imported goods will be expensive. The same with restaurants range from the basic to the luxurious, depends where you are.

Staff, cooks, cleaners much less expensive than UK.

Yes you will need to buy a SIM in India, when going to a shop take several photocopies of your passport, visa and proof of Indian address (as well as originals to show).

Football, not a fan myself, but it is just as much a craze in India, the TV seems to show non-stop football (and cricket).