In general teachers find that the cost of living in Brunei is much less than what they have been used to at home. Run of the mill restaurants will cost you around $20USD a meal and per capita income is around $53,100USD.
If teachers want to bring some money, a month’s salary should suffice. Setting up costs will involve paying deposits for phone and internet connections, ASTRO connections and getting kitchenware, dining ware and linen for the beds.
It should be noted that some clients in Brunei will give teachers a B$500 advance from their salary and they will also be reimbursed for expenses incurred for excess baggage, medical and visa costs during the first week of them settling in Brunei. Be sure to keep your invoices/receipts for these expenditures if this is part of your contract.
Things are generally pretty cheap in Brunei and those of you who enjoy a glass of wine or a cold beer should be aware that you cannot buy alcohol in shops or restaurants in Brunei. For some, this will make a HUGE difference in terms of your meal bill ;) and it will help you save HEAPS of money and perhaps your liver.
