hi, JJ,
When I started the Cost of Living board, the technical support guy said that it was impossible to give more than a general idea, and he was right. I looked through the country data in the Economist and the only easily accessible information was the
Economist Big Mac Index.
Even the Economist Magazine says that the index should be taken lightly. The index also tries to relate to under-priced/over-priced currency levels.
For what it's worth:
| Country | | Big Mac US$ |
| US | | 3.41 |
| UK | | 4.01 |
| Malaysia | | 1.60 |
| Singapore | | 2.59 |
| Thailand | | 1.80 |
| Philippines | | 1.85 |
| Indonesia | | 1.76 |
It's good to check out individual items to get a general idea. So if there's anything you need please post.
I've lived here for 11 years. When I go to Singapore my weekly expenditure (excluding accommodation) doubles. Back in the UK it's more than 4 times what it is here. These are obviously only a rough guide so come over for an extended holiday, if possible. A five-star hotel in
KL (say, the Ritz-Carlton) will cost you RM600 per night. That's 85 quid, and you get the services of a butler.
Not having to pay VAT makes an enormous difference, and not having to pay income tax is great.
regards, Scott
