What I have to say about being an Ahmedabad Expat -- moving advice

My post about advice on moving here......This was done about 1.5 yrs ago....Tomorrow I will add what I have learned and how this has changed. Also, look for more videos and pictures from our trip to Thailand.

Expat Advice: Moving to Ahmedabad, India

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

Ahmedabad, India

Name three things that you wish you had brought and three you wish you had left at home.

Brought:

1. steak/more food

2. Better converters

3. boots

Left:

1. Jacket

2. Sonicare toothbrush (doesn't work here with the brown electricity)

3. skirts

What advice would you give someone preparing to move to your area about the actual move, choosing a neighborhood and finding a home?

My advice is have someone that is familiar with the area and housing market find and negotiate the terms of the house. You are likely to get it cheaper and the best location.

What type of housing do you live in? Is this typical for most expats in your area?

We live in a flat. Which works perfect for us. A few other expats live in flats as well but for the most part they live in bungalows. But one thing we all have in common is we all live in gated secured communities.

How did you choose your neighborhood and find your home or apartment?

We actually paid someone before we came to set up our home. But, in my husband's business that is something that we do. Locate and set up housing for foreigners in India. So, we base it on location to malls, stores, and other places we find expats like to frequent. We also, consider the place of employment along with cost.

Are your housing costs higher or lower than they were in your home country? What is the average cost of housing there?

I have not been in the US in nearly 2 years so I do not know is housing is more expensive. But, I do know housing cost here are on the rise. Most expats I know pay at least $1,000 per month for rent. But our flat is a bit smaller (there is only 3 of us) but still is 4 bedrooms and we pay a little more than $500. The best part is we are in a great location. I take the smaller flat vs. the big bungalow for the location any day.