Job Discussion Forums

[madhouseminx]

Hey stoth!

I have no clue who he is. I assume a recruiter...but I thought maybe a recruiter from the school specifically as opposed to an agency. But who knows?

-Mad

[veiledsentiments]

If you look at the ad, it refers you to a "dr" and I would find it strange to find a recruiter with a PhD. I hope it is not a recruiter because that is almost always bad news. You never have any recourse for incorrect answers that they give you on your questions.

VS

[stoth1972]

You can't get a phd in recruiting for dodgy universities?

[madhouseminx]

According to the website of the school, he is supposed to be the dean. I can't find anything on Purdue University's website pertaining to them though.

Still haven't heard back either.

-Mad

[Water Baby]

Hey VS, Hey Stoth, Hey everyone ....

I just got back to the thread!

Thanks for all the comments about apartment rentals. What a relief to know some come furnished.
I've seen rent of 300 OMR for a furnished 2-bed apartment on the 'cost of living' calculator on telf.com. Someone local is presumably researching and publishing this?

Stoth, did you hear about gym fees? I thought for sure there would be heaps of people doing gym or pool in Muscat - pool especially in the HEAT!!


thanks
WB

[veiledsentiments]

Take the TEFL.com information with a grain of salt as that was pre-cyclone and it won't be until everyone starts coming back after the summer break that we know what happens with rents.

Did you know that they have to use coolers in the pools there for much of the year? Otherwise you can literally get scalded!! I can't help you out on gyms or pool memberships, but don't worry... they are there. If you were at SQU, they have facilities on campus. You will probably have to check around once you get there to find the place that best fits your needs and budget. I expect that memberships won't be cheap.

VS

[stoth1972]

My friend heard that most of the apartments that are liveable have been rented.... she rents her flat for 200 riyals furnished....2 bedrooms 2
baths and large sitting room. She said people are
charging 300 riyals for an unfurnished 1 bedroom flat at the moment.

[stoth1972]

Water baby, I'm still waiting to hear on current prices for gym/hotel memberships. I'll update when I hear.

[stoth1972]

Water baby, I couldn't get a very good range on the gym memberships. My friend said the high-end (Intercon, Hyatt, Crowne Plaza) places in muscat charges 150 OMR for a 3 month membership. Steep, in my opinion.

[Water Baby]

Hey Stoth,

Yep, the memberships are steep. Perhaps pacing the apartment will do instead.

By the way, I've signed up for a year, so will be joining you guys in September!

[veiledsentiments]

Waterbaby,

Mabruk!! It's a job. And part of your duty will be to come on here and tell us how difficult your flat search might be and the costs. Have you discussed with your new employer whether they are going to be extra helpful due to the current situation?

Walking or running is free and possible in many neighborhoods. I lived in Madinet Qaboos and it was perfect for long evening walks. One can also drive over and walk the beaches.

VS

[Water Baby]

VS,

I hear ya! Sure, I'll keep you all posted on flat hunting. It's quite some weeks before I arrive, so you'll hear updates down the track.

[salmon]

I heard a rumour that salaries in the private sector are going to be increased by 10 - 15% in the near future by Royal Decree.
Fingers crossed - Inshallah!

[veiledsentiments]

It would seem that it is not really a "private sector" if the government comes in and forces salary changes.

Setting a minimum wage to help out the sweepers and drivers is one thing... mandating professional raises is another.

VS

[salmon]

Mandating a higher salary can't be a bad thing - for whatever reason. I don't see the problem ....