Relocating to America | Page 2 | ExpatWoman.com
 

Relocating to America

74 posts / 0 new
Last post
Log in to post new content in the forum.
leenavaz23285
49
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 21:03
On another note if I find a well paying job in dubai I could convince DH to stay.....does anyone know of any openings in marketing or branding? I have nine yrs experience as a marketing manager in dubai and its high time i move from my current job....im trying to keep an open mind but its hard for me to accept a big lifestyle change.
leenavaz23285
49
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 21:00
Thank you for all the info....Beebers thanks the monthly expenses really help give me an idea re cost of living. The Indian aspect doesn't bother me as I'm not religious and am married to a South African.....Texas sounds feasible but I would love to stay someplace rainy...but financially it doesn't seem feasible especially since I am looking for a better paying job in dubai......I like my independence and not really comfy being a stay at home wife..... Verdeque I love your comments......I'm happy with a live in until my baby is 3 to 4 yrs old.... After that I would prefer a live out maid.....if I have to relocate I would prefer city life with some rain......preferably not dubai type hot weather.....I agree I have to be really grateful to be offered a choice......if I didn't have a baby I would move in a heartbeat .....how's Hartford ..my company has an office there and I may be able to get a job.... It looks bleak online......And if not I guess Texas sounds affordable and they say it rains in Houston....I read its easier to get a nanny in San Diego? Whats a good income to live I'm Cali?
Beebers
3376
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 20:56
This is very interesting to me too...it looks like we'll be moving there later this year. I haven't been there before, other than a brief layover in NYC - sorry to hijack the post, but to Beebers, may I ask why you wouldn't be keen on going back to California? That's where we'll be going, probably somewhere in San Francisco Bay area. Hi Beany, I have been all over California for business & pleasure, but didn't like living in LA and SoCal as much as I liked Texas. My best friends and extended family live there, so that's where my heart is. I am a midwest gal, but wouldn't move back to my hometown because of the winters! If I had to pick one city in CA, it would probably be Sausalito and that area. Truly it's lovely :) My cousin who has a couple of homes in SoCal has dealt with numerous issues over the years (mudslides, earthquakes, smoke form fires) and I don't know if that sounds happily ever after for me. That's all. Lovely to visit though! Truthfully, no plans to move back the US! ETA: Yes, my budget may have been on the conservative side, but it is not uncommon at all for Texas, and I did not include entertainment or shopping; just my "musts." I have friends that pay much less for rent and their vehicles x <em>edited by Beebers on 13/01/2013</em>
verdeque
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 20:37
This is very interesting to me too...it looks like we'll be moving there later this year. I haven't been there before, other than a brief layover in NYC - sorry to hijack the post, but to Beebers, may I ask why you wouldn't be keen on going back to California? That's where we'll be going, probably somewhere in San Francisco Bay area. Funny, I'm from the Bay Area, and I would absolutely move back, but would really make sure you really look at the areas before you go. When I think about where we'll end up some day, I always dream about going back to crazy Cali. It's a great place to live, especially if you're on a pretty good income.
Beany
141
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 20:12
This is very interesting to me too...it looks like we'll be moving there later this year. I haven't been there before, other than a brief layover in NYC - sorry to hijack the post, but to Beebers, may I ask why you wouldn't be keen on going back to California? That's where we'll be going, probably somewhere in San Francisco Bay area.
verdeque
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 19:59
OP, I'm an American, in Dubai for 5 months now. I'm from California, and have lived in Portland, Providence, San Francisco and most recently in the Rochester, NY area. I've been all over the US, both for business and pleasure. I think the comments are really interesting here, as so many people seem keen to be back there. Personally, when we went for Christmas, while it was good to be home, I was also appreciating Dubai and couldn't wait to get back. Yes, you can aspire to live the American dream. But I see many entrepreneurs here, as well, so I'm not so sure you are that limited by your ambitions in Dubai. Pros of the US - shopping (yes, it's cheaper, especially with stores like Target and Costco); if you're in the right area, your kids will be out playing in the streets with others; people are pretty friendly, on the whole; it's great to experience the many seasons (oh, I miss that); walks in the woods/nature; freedom (though I haven't really felt an absence of freedom here, frankly). Cons of the US - taxes; an attitude of detachment/indifference amongst youth that astounds me, along with a growing lack of work ethic (my guests here now, who are graduating Uni and are 21, noticed this difference immediately here); the fact that it's not only ok, but also cool to be dumb - look at reality shows and daytime talk shows; you won't get the bling and glam of Dubai (I'm not even a glam sort, but I notice it here); you will not be able to have the help you have now, which I'll elaborate on - I'm sorry, but on the whole, you will be paying at the least, $10 an hour to an illegal alien or college kid, and up to $35 an hour to an agency cleaner. Sitters are anywhere from $6 an hour for a 14-15 year old, up to $12 an hour, depending on where you live. My friends here from India and Africa and the ME are always shocked that I have been doing everything alone for all of these years, which makes me laugh. I was always overwhelmed, but that was also because I do our finances and manage a few rental properties, and get pretty involved in school life. I also hate cleaning, so I paid someone to come in once a week, but that was a luxury at $75 per week, considering the many other expenses. Having said that, we have a full time maid and I miss our privacy. I think I'd prefer to have someone come a few times a week instead. If you are used to a live in, you will be in shock, but perhaps you will enjoy the freedom, too, of having the house to yourself. If you are Indian, take the time to explore other areas. I personally don't like Texas, but admittedly haven't spent a ton of time there (mostly because I don't like it). Most areas will welcome you, but not all. I find that there is a lot more racial and religious tolerance in Dubai than in the US. Re your budget, I think beebers' budget is a bit on the conservative side. If you are used to throwing money around, then you should pick an affordable part of the US, as rent will be your highest expense. You should also explore schools, as well. And do you want a city life or burbs, or nature? Depending on your answer, I can point to some areas, too. Do you want heat year 'round or seasons? Do you want a house in the burbs or a small flat in a vibrant city? Money magazine puts out a yearly best cities/places to live in the US that's pretty cool. Look it up. I think that your income is enough depending on the lifestyle you want. The thing that's great about your life and my life is that we have the good fortune to have these sorts of choices. To be honest, if your husband is keen then I'd give it a whirl. The worst that can happen is that you come back in a few years, but imagine the adventure you'll have. And it is an opportunity for you to become very close to your little one. I couldn't imagine not having had that time with my little ones. You can find part time work, or not, and just hang with your kid/s. If you choose a quieter or more suburban area, then your life can slow down and you can relax into a different life for awhile. Spend time looking at areas. The east and west coasts are generally more liberal, but Americans are ridiculously outgoing, so you'd be able to find friends. Also, don't assume that schools there are better. Do a bit of research there. Happy to help if you describe a bit more what you're into. And if it helps, we're still not sure where we'll end up! We've got houses on both coasts, lol.
Chi2dxb
565
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 18:01
Yes, there is an Indian grocers not far from me. There are lots of good grocery stores all over. Also, where I live here in the Burbs, there is a lot of different cultures, Russian, Korean, Chinese! I am the token Brit and my friends love my accent! They now say everything is "lovely" lol! You don't know till you try it, but you have to make more of an effort to make friends here. Yep. We love you Brits and your accents! Can't understand half of what you're saying, but we love em! ;) jk. <em>edited by Chi2dxb on 13/01/2013</em>
Chi2dxb
565
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 17:59
lol @ Chi--I feel the same way. Hip hip hooray, someone is going there! But not me :( DH is going without me this month and I am a bit peeved! Aw man, so sorry to hear that! Also, love Devon street! Fresh Sugar cane juice in the summers, yumm!
Beebers
3376
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 17:45
lol @ Chi--I feel the same way. Hip hip hooray, someone is going there! But not me :( DH is going without me this month and I am a bit peeved!
Chi2dxb
565
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 17:42
also the fact that DH wont be around all week just weekends and basically I will be a one man army....or superwoman :) If you're not going to be working and DH will be out of town, you should have a car with you, just to go out to the mall, park, playdates, spa, etc. and honestly, it might be easier with the hubby gone, you won't have to worry about cooking and cleaning as much either! ;) just you and the baby and relax and do what you please.
Northernlass2
15
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 17:40
Yes, there is an Indian grocers not far from me. There are lots of good grocery stores all over. Also, where I live here in the Burbs, there is a lot of different cultures, Russian, Korean, Chinese! I am the token Brit and my friends love my accent! They now say everything is "lovely" lol! You don't know till you try it, but you have to make more of an effort to make friends here.
Chi2dxb
565
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 17:39
[b'>Of course it can be done! You just need to make adjustments where necessary, find what is mandatory to keep you happy and compromise on the rest x[/b'> That's what's important in the end. I'm sorry I'm all over this thread, it just gets me excited thinking about someone, anyone moving there! loll
Beebers
3376
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 17:38
I don't agree with either of these things. There are Indian markets and huge areas dedicated to just them in the cities that I've had experience in: [b'>Chicago[/b'>, Detroit, Houston, Dallas, New York, Northern Virginia, Baltimore, Atlanta, Tampa, Orlando. In fact, I've found things there that I havent found here. And it's not just Indian, it's easier to find all things there than here! ;) [b'>I used to live off Devon and Western, in what they called West Rogers Park or International market. Every other grocery was Indian![/b'> <em>edited by Beebers on 13/01/2013</em>
Chi2dxb
565
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 17:37
Beebers, you're right. I forgot to mention the suburbs are def more affordable than the city of Chi. Naperville, wuddup! ;) edited by Chi2dxb on 13/01/2013 Hilarious! 355 in the house! lol 630 is where it's at! HAHAHA
Beebers
3376
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 17:37
it basically comes down to finances. Is 4700$ a month enough for a family of three including rent, food, baby expenses, car loan, petrol, some allowance for me as a stay at home mum etc etc? I still am not sure which city you are leaning toward. This matters a lot. Just for argument's sake, and this is just figuring what my own costs as a single woman were at my last place in Texas. The vehicle and rent of course will vary, as do bills. I also had a 45 minute commute to and from work each day. 1350 sq foot 2 bed Apartment: 1000/month New compact car: 400/month Car insurance: 100/month Groceries/tolietries: 500/month Dry Cleaning: 50/month (SOOO cheap in TX) Petrol: 400/month Electricity:150/month Utilities: 50/month Internet & cable tv: 90/month Mobile phone bills: 100/month Hair/beauty: 100/month Entertainment...? up to you I suppose That's 2990 not including entertainment, club memberships, highway toll charges, parking, your child's needs (sorry, no clue what that costs!), vehicle maintenance, health care deductibles, medicine, and all the other fun life throws at you. Again, these were my baseline monthly expenses. Hope this helps even a bit. Of course it can be done! You just need to make adjustments where necessary, find what is mandatory to keep you happy and compromise on the rest x
Chi2dxb
565
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 17:36
it basically comes down to finances. Is 4700$ a month enough for a family of three including rent, food, baby expenses, car loan, petrol, some allowance for me as a stay at home mum etc etc? That depends on your rent. Use Craigslist to get an idea of rent prices in different cities. The cities I listed below are all good. And that also depends on what kind of car you have and how much your loan is. Are you driving a Camry or a Rolls Royce? ;) And it alsooo depends on how much you want your "allowance" to be. haha Food will not be a lot. You can get way more than enough for $100-$200 a week or two easily. How you feel is subjective, but with a good paying job (100k), I don't think it'll be hard.
Chi2dxb
565
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 17:28
The ones whose lives are predominantly Indian - food, culture, lifestyles- are having a far tougher time. Indian produce in the US is expensive and not that readily available. If you don't have family/friends nearby, celebrating festivals, traditions becomes more difficult. I don't agree with either of these things. There are Indian markets and huge areas dedicated to just them in the cities that I've had experience in: Chicago, Detroit, Houston, Dallas, New York, Northern Virginia, Baltimore, Atlanta, Tampa, Orlando. In fact, I've found things there that I havent found here. And it's not just Indian, it's easier to find all things there than here! ;) Also, with regards to festivals and holidays, I haven't met one person who hasn't been accepting of different cultures. You may find it easier to celebrate holidays as there are probably way more temples or mandirs around where you can meet a lot of people! <em>edited by Chi2dxb on 13/01/2013</em>
leenavaz23285
49
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 17:23
If I dont relocate, DH might blame me for ruining a great career opportunity for him, and if I go, I would leave my Dubai job, lifestyle and have to settle being a stay at home mum, and live a lonely life. We definitely wont be able to afford 2 cars so I wont be mobile. I am super confused how to handle this situation.
leenavaz23285
49
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 17:21
also the fact that DH wont be around all week just weekends and basically I will be a one man army....or superwoman :)
leenavaz23285
49
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 17:21
it basically comes down to finances. Is 4700$ a month enough for a family of three including rent, food, baby expenses, car loan, petrol, some allowance for me as a stay at home mum etc etc?
Beebers
3376
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 17:17
Beebers, you're right. I forgot to mention the suburbs are def more affordable than the city of Chi. Naperville, wuddup! ;) edited by Chi2dxb on 13/01/2013 Hilarious! 355 in the house! lol
tkoshy
384
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 17:13
my main fear is we are super spoilt in India and Dubai, you can hire someone to clean your home, nanny, laundry, wash your car, do your nails, wax etc etc,. What I want to know Brits Abroad, if you have kids, how did you manage with the "do it yourself" lifestyle vs "get everything done for you"? I may sound horrible saying this, but I imagine a day of waking up at 5.30 am, dropping my baby off to daycare, after a long day at work, pick him up, come home, cook, clean, do the laundry, weekends probably cook for the week ahead. I forgot to mention DH would be traveling all week and only be home on weekends so the entire responsibility falls on me. Is it worth it? You will be super exhausted all the time. At least, that is the number one complaint I hear from my friends. With both partners working, household chores, kids, etc and no help/no family around, they are all very tired always. The ones in New York and New Jersey have long commute times - my SIL does 1 and half hour commute - and have little to non existent savings. The ones in Texas, Arizona, Seattle, North Carolina and Portland seem to have better quality lives - bigger, cheaper homes/ apartments, better schooling and healthcare, less taxes, etc. A lot of it would also depend on your ability to assimilate. The ones who seem to be doing better are the ones who have adopted a more "americanised" lifestyle. The ones whose lives are predominantly Indian - food, culture, lifestyles- are having a far tougher time. Indian produce in the US is expensive and not that readily available. If you don't have family/friends nearby, celebrating festivals, traditions becomes more difficult. Friends with kids are struggling with raising kids - maintaining the balance between traditional and new ideals, the parental expectations and styles are very different. Travelling for vacations would also be a problem - you only get 2 weeks in a year and travelling out of the Americas is very expensive. Friends travel home every 2 years and they dislike the trip. Is it long term move? That has to be factored into your decision also. If it's short term, I would be packing my bags right now. If not, consider the impact on your life and that of your child in the future. The biggest advantage, for me, is the personal freedoms and the lack of bias/prejudice that a person enjoys. Very few of my friends who moved from the ME will ever move/have moved back here.
Chi2dxb
565
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 17:12
Leenavaz, coming from a Pakistani background I can understand how you think it would be hard without the "cheap labor" and people do find it a struggle in the beginning but I can assure you, you'll have a much more easygoing lifestyle and it will be better for the kid(s). Being born and raised there, I'm actually proud to say that we don't have "help" in the house as much as other countries because everyone has to be paid a minimum wage and everyone deserves the same quality of life, regardless of your nationality, and based on your experience. But you have to decide what's more important. I would choose the U.S. In. A. New. York. Minute! Beebers, you're right. I forgot to mention the suburbs are def more affordable than the city of Chi. Naperville, wuddup! ;) My husband's job is the reason we're looking to go back ASAP. There's nothing holding is back here but we have yet to make the move. Fingers crosses it happens soon. I wish I was in your position Leenavaz. The subject of this post would then read, "Relocatin to America!!!!!" <em>edited by Chi2dxb on 13/01/2013</em>
Northernlass2
15
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 17:12
Hi there, I am British and lived in Dubai for 4.5 years before we left for the States in 2010. I am really happy here, we live in the Northern suburbs of Chicago. I love my normal life but still crave my old Dubai life too! Kids have a good life and are very busy with activities! Summers are great but shopping is the best! Food wise I would say it is no more expensive than Dubai, gas is not that expensive. Weirdly enough it looks like we may be coming back to Dubai for a couple of years with my husbands job! We plan to keep our home here in the States and our Green Cards as it will only be a couple of years. You can have a great life. Weather is interesting too! If you want to ask me anything you can email me! Marie at Oyston dot net
Beebers
3376
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 17:12
Thanks - OH is the gas / infrastructure man so that helps! I'll do anything - thanks, if I need those headhunters I will give you a call - if that is ok? edited by pollydxb1 on 13/01/2013 Sure that's fine :) Just look for me on here. My cousin is a headhunter based out of Chicago, I'll check how far her network goes, and DH has connections in the gas industry. x
Sakhifa62068
1120
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 17:12
my main fear is we are super spoilt in India and Dubai, you can hire someone to clean your home, nanny, laundry, wash your car, do your nails, wax etc etc,. What I want to know Brits Abroad, if you have kids, how did you manage with the "do it yourself" lifestyle vs "get everything done for you"? I may sound horrible saying this, but I imagine a day of waking up at 5.30 am, dropping my baby off to daycare, after a long day at work, pick him up, come home, cook, clean, do the laundry, weekends probably cook for the week ahead. I forgot to mention DH would be traveling all week and only be home on weekends so the entire responsibility falls on me. Is it worth it? It is worth it. Think of the long term. The long term benefits for you and your children in the USA far outweigh the luxuries of having someone fill your gas tank, clean your toilet, and iron your clothes! Yes, it's nice to have, but the majority of the world does live without those things and you can too.
pollydxb155762
4423
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 17:05
You have all made me want to pack my bags and move there tomorrow! OH loves Cali and would move there in a heartbeat, I on the otherhand would love to live in Texas :) Any clue on where to best look for jobs in the US? TIA Polly, for internet sites, try monster.com or careerbuilder.com. Besides the gas/oil industry, the medical field (radiology techs, nurses) is in really high demand. Or, once you've decided on a place, you could contact a headhunter. I know a few :) Thanks - OH is the gas / infrastructure man so that helps! I'll do anything - thanks, if I need those headhunters I will give you a call - if that is ok? <em>edited by pollydxb1 on 13/01/2013</em>
Beebers
3376
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 17:03
You have all made me want to pack my bags and move there tomorrow! OH loves Cali and would move there in a heartbeat, I on the otherhand would love to live in Texas :) Any clue on where to best look for jobs in the US? TIA Polly, for internet sites, try monster.com or careerbuilder.com. Besides the gas/oil industry, the medical field (radiology techs, nurses) is in really high demand. Or, once you've decided on a place, you could contact a headhunter. I know a few :)
pollydxb155762
4423
Posts
EW MASTER
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 16:27
You have all made me want to pack my bags and move there tomorrow! OH loves Cali and would move there in a heartbeat, I on the otherhand would love to live in Texas :) Any clue on where to best look for jobs in the US? TIA
leenavaz23285
49
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 16:24
thanks for all the replies......its still a struggle to decide especially with our debts in dubai.....ghanagal thanks a ton, I will be in touch if we decide to move.
Log in to post new content in the forum.
 
 
Top 5 UK curriculum online schools for expat families and kids abroad

Top 5 Online Schools For Expat Families in the Middle East

How expats in Germany can get German pension refund

Bye Bye Germany - Hello German Pension Refund?

UAE Emirati Lawyer Awatif Khouri in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Meet the Emirati Woman Breaking Grounds in UAE Law: Awatif Khouri

Mashreq NEO NXT Account | Why Kids and Teens Need Financial Education

Why Teens Need Real-World Financial Education?

International university transition tips

How to Make the Transition to University Life Easier

How to apply for Germany VBL Pension Refund as an expatriate | Germany Pension Refund

Bye Bye German Public Service Job - Hello VBL Pension Refund

Tourist SIM cards in Dubai guide

Tourist SIM Cards in Dubai: Where to Get One and Package Prices

World's most expensive cities to live in 2024

These Are the World's Most Expensive Cities To Live in 2024

Dubai ranked as one of the best cities to work in 2024

Dubai Ranked Among Top 5 Cities in the World to Work In

What are the signs that your online date is a fraud

8 Warning Signs Your Online Date is a Scammer

10 Expat Experiences You Should Check Off Before Repatriation

10 Expat Experiences You Should Check Off Before Leaving For Good

Best and Worst Countries to Get Started Abroad for New Expats

Best and Worst Countries for New Expats to Get Started Abroad

Under the Mango Tree by Robyn Fok | Expat Books

Expat Author Robyn Fok's 'Under the Mango Tree' Deals With Pet Grief & Loss

Expat Wife, Happy Life: Interview With Expat Author Florence Reisch

(Images: Supplied)

Expat Interview: Meet Florence Reisch, Author of 'Expat Wife, Happy Life!'

Remembering Queen Elizabeth II: A Tribute by UAE Expats

Remembering an Extraordinary Woman: A Tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

10 reasons why expat women love the UAE

10 Reasons Why the UAE is a Popular Choice for Expat Women

6 Common Fears of Moving Abroad By Yourself and How to Overcome Them

Moving to the UAE Alone: 6 Common Fears and How to Overcome Them

Ultimate Babyshop Baby and Toddler Travel Packing List

These Baby Travel Essentials Are Must-Haves For Your Next Family Getaway

Requirements to apply for a UAE Golden Visa

How Do I Obtain a UAE Golden Visa? Requirements, Eligibility, and Process Explained

5 Tip for Expats to Survive Long-Distance Relationships

5 Tip for Expats to Survive Long-Distance Relationships

Opening a bank account in the UAE

A Newcomer to the UAE? What to Consider When Choosing a Bank for Opening an Account

Culture shock in the United Arab Emirates for expats

14 Ways You Will Experience Culture Shock in the UAE

Why you shouldn't upload your resume on your LinkedIn profile

5 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Upload a Resume to Your LinkedIn Profile

10 Secrets to Happiness as an Expat

10 Secrets to Finding Happiness as an Expat

4 Ways to Network as an Expat

4 Ways to Network as an Expat

8 Expat Problems That Are Just Too Real

8 Expat Problems That Are Just Too Real

How to Make New Friends in a Foreign Country

How to Make New Friends in a Foreign Country

Top 10 Countries with the Best Quality of Life

Top 10 Countries with the Best Quality of Life

The best European cities for new expats

Pictured: Prague

The Best Cities in Europe for Expat Arrivals

House in Husavik

10 Amazing Things To Do In Iceland

How to Make Your Own Life as an Expat and Why It’s Important

How to Make Your Own Life as an Expat and Why It’s Important

The Labriz eforea spa location

Why Seychelles is One of the Best Holiday Destinations

The Real Expat: Chasing Your Dreams to Find Your True Purpose

The Real Expat: Chasing Your Dreams to Find Your True Purpose