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Hi, Im considering moving to NI from Argentina and I had a few questions.
Any and all information will be much appreciated.
1) My greatest concern: How much of a problem is it to be a Catholic in NI these days? I'd avoid the working class places, we're thinking east Belfast like Bangor, but that's 90% Protestant. We're not very religious people but like most Latins we are Catholic even if we have no political stance regarding NI. I'm mostly concerned about my kids being discriminated in school, bullied, atc. I have two boys, they are 2 and 8 and the oldest ones has been going to a billingual school.
I've been told that in middle class nieghborhoods (we're thinking 600-700 GBP rent) its not a problem, but I keep worrying about my kids and school.
2)How much cheaper is NI than GB or Scotland? I understnad its cheaper, especially the houses for rent, but outside of London looking to be in other cities it seems you can still get a nice detached house and a good life quality for more affordable prices. Would you say its noticeably cheaper?
3)Our income at this time being self emplyed is 36K pounds a year. Hopefully my wife will find a job, but if she doesn't right away, would this be enough to live ok as middle class. (we dont drink, smoke or throw our money, we do like to travel a week or so once a year though) Will my money go further in NI than in mainland?
If you have other advice or tips, I'd really appreciate them.
Hi, Im considering moving to NI from Argentina and I had a few questions.
Any and all information will be much appreciated.
1) My greatest concern: How much of a problem is it to be a Catholic in NI these days? I'd avoid the working class places, we're thinking east Belfast like Bangor, but that's 90% Protestant. We're not very religious people but like most Latins we are Catholic even if we have no political stance regarding NI. I'm mostly concerned about my kids being discriminated in school, bullied, atc. I have two boys, they are 2 and 8 and the oldest ones has been going to a billingual school.
I've been told that in middle class nieghborhoods (we're thinking 600-700 GBP rent) its not a problem, but I keep worrying about my kids and school.
2)How much cheaper is NI than GB or Scotland? I understnad its cheaper, especially the houses for rent, but outside of London looking to be in other cities it seems you can still get a nice detached house and a good life quality for more affordable prices. Would you say its noticeably cheaper?
3)Our income at this time being self emplyed is 36K pounds a year. Hopefully my wife will find a job, but if she doesn't right away, would this be enough to live ok as middle class. (we dont drink, smoke or throw our money, we do like to travel a week or so once a year though) Will my money go further in NI than in mainland?
If you have other advice or tips, I'd really appreciate them.
FerFAL
You will have no problems living to a decent standard on the income you suggest. I live in a 'middle class' area of East Belfast, my neighbour is a Catholic and I have many friends who are also Catholics. Schools will not be a problem if you do a little research. Your kids should have no problem, there are now many nationalities and races living in N.I. Rent will be slightly cheaper. Food, socialising, eating out, going out etc all compare favourably to the rest of the U.K.
Thanks Pacos, if you dont mind me asking, what neighborhoods do you suggest in Belfast? Finding the right place is important to us.
FerFAL
East or South Belfast, with £ 600 -£700 per month you could easily afford an apartment or 3/4 bedroom house.
Areas - Knock, Belmont, Gilnahirk, Castlreagh, Upper Newtownards Road, Newton Breda, Saintfield Road, Knock Breda, top end of the Ormeau Road, Holywood Road.
Plenty of choice. I'm not too familiar with North & West Belfast but if you stick with any of the above you'll be O.K.
Last edited by pacos; 09-05-2011 at 07:49 AM..
Reason: Spelling
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