I am Tony and I'm a German-American. I don't hear much about Americans in their early 20s moving to Brunei successfully. In fact I don't hear much about any Americans moving there. But I'm interested. I've never been into the wild party life. My family definitely are party animals but I prefer a peaceful life without hearing gunshots and drunks outside my windows.
I was in college for mechanical engineering and business but stopped after 2 years due to financial issues. So I do not have a professional degree but would like to continue. I have 4 years restaurant experience, a few months of electrical experience, and 2 years manufacturing production experience. How difficult would it be to get a job and a work permit?
Speaking of permits I pretty much got the idea of how to apply for one. My question though is this. If I can't find an employer willing to accept me over Web, because I know the lack of online job postings in Brunei, I can go to Brunei for 3 months without a visa. From there I can look for an employer to help sort out a work visa correct? I understand I would have have to come back to America to finish sorting things out. I pretty much got a lot of info I need from tons of research but I need a little help from people with experience in Brunei. No better way to get info than from the source themselves.
First off, housing. I've looked at Bruneiproperty and the rent is high yet I only see apartments with like 5 bathrooms and 4 bedrooms. I am going to be alone. What's the best real estate website?
Second, transportation. I know taxis are basically unheard of there and my understanding a lot of people don't walk to work. I was told vehicles are cheaper there yet another person said they're more expensive. Unfortunately a lot of my sources are from the UK so it's hard to compare a UK expatriate to a us expatriate. What's the best thing for getting around?
Third, if theres any Americans that are currently or have been there, what were your experiences? And if possible not people that are there on business. Because usually they are older and have a family and house and everything already taken care of. Preferably someone that went there for more opportunities and a new life such as myself.
I know it's a lot and I know I sound like an amateur but I'm the first born in the US and never been out of it. Travelling is new and I can't see myself finding happiness stuck here. I have quite a lot of research I've done so I'm not completely amateur. Any help is perfect.
Again thanks and much appreciated, Tony.