Expert Info

Posted by
on 6 May 2012
Hi, I will be teaching at MAC school in Cairo beginning August 20th. I'm a bit worried about my finaces and the political situation. It's just my husband, myself, and our dog, so we only need a 1 bedroom furnished preferably with some garden, lawn, wall, fence or something for our little dog to spend a couple of hours outside.(or a rooftop.)I only get 2,700 LE per month for housing and 36,000 US dollars a month to live on. We'll need cable or something for TV, internet, cell card or service, landline/i guess,taxis a little, water, gas, and food(we are not vegetarians, and household cleaning supplies, and toilitries and medicine and misscilaneous. How much do you think we'll have to spend a month. We don't really go out much or entertain. I don't know if we can get a simple apartment on my 2,700 LE allowance. I was just wondering if anyone could give me any idea if I'll make enough money, have any left over, live paycheck to paycheck, or not be able to pay our bills. If I can't save any, I'm going to take another job in Bolivia even though I really like this school and we're excited about Egypt. PLEASE someone with experience, help me and give me any advice. Thank you so very much, Andi mcdowella777@hotmail.com
Anonymous (not verified) on 6 May 2012 - 23:41
I meant 36,000 a year! sorry!
Anonymous (not verified) on 13 May 2012 - 09:34
hey, we lived in egypt for 9 years before moving to australia. Life in egypt is not costly at all. In terms of housing, with 2,700 LE a month you'll definetely manage without problems as we used to have an apartment in a very strategic location of maadi for 5 people and that was 3000 LE a month. Living costs, as i've said are not high and you should manage with 36,000 US dollars a year... perhaps not a luxurious lifestyle tho :)
Anonymous (not verified) on 16 May 2012 - 16:39
Thank you, that helps. we found an apartment with a rooftop and 2 bed and 1 1/2 bath for 3,500 LE that will be available sept. 1st which is a couple of days after we need it. It's not really modern, but fine for us. We like the rooftop. Is there any certain way I should deal with the realtor. Do I bargain or ask for certain things? anyway, it's only 800LE more than our housing allowance which is a bit over 1oo US$ i think and the rest shouldn't cost very much, so I think I can save money since it will be tax free. However, I just don't know. I'll arrive in Cairo at 8:30 p.m. 8-22 and stay at a hotel for 1 week and then move into an apartment and they'll give me 300$ and my 1-way airfare back/reimburse me, which should be about 800$ and I won't get paid again until Sept. 30th. So, we'll be really tight that first month. we're trying to save some now to help us out later. my husband spends too much. does anyone have any ideas of a good shipper/cheap to ship about 10 medium boxes and a guitar and small amp? Thanks, Andi
Anonymous (not verified) on 22 May 2012 - 12:57
Hi are you sure your salary will be tax free - I was under the impression that all residents here have to pay tax at the local rate (20 - 40%)? ALso if you have gone through a realtor for your flat - then you will have to pay the comission to him - which is usually 1 months rent of the flat you are going to rent.It does look like you are going to be very tight for that first month. Also be aware that if you live and eat more like a local - then you spend less every month on food - if you live and eat like an expat (buy the things that you like from the supermarket) - then you will sepdn alot as they are taxed heavily here and can be very expensive. ALso be aware that as an american - you are a walking purse (or yu are to the average Egyptian - and they will try and fleece you / charge you more - considerably more on everything you buy.
Anonymous (not verified) on 22 Aug 2012 - 13:27
i have an job offer in cairo. We are four family members (two kids) My both kid will join school in cairo. what should be the the monthly expenses ( rent, groserry, school fees, milk etc). Will my salary be tax free? please help me by providing required information.
Anonymous (not verified) on 9 Nov 2012 - 11:39
for your household help you may contact me on 01128861262. i am currently working for an american family so i wish to increase my working hours. reference is available and i don't need to be sponsored for a visa i already have my visa. thanxs so much in advance

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