Hello Lee
you are making the right decision by renting out here to get a feel of things. Living here and holidaying here are 2 different things.Beware that offically you cannot work here unless a firm gets you a work permit.(unlikely)so be prepared for keeping yourself busy other ways. Re cost of living:- my personal experiences are that to own and run a house is very cheap although the cost of electricity is going up, mind you thats the same as the UK but initially to shop day to day in the supermarkets is dearer that the UK. Go to the markets for fresh fruit and veg and BiM for cheap day to day goods. They dont stock as much as Migros or Tansas but are alot cheaper. The BiG benefit over here is the interest on your money in the bank. This varies between 16 and 20% depending on the amount and this is held in a monthly account so you can draw out 1 day each month without losing interest. Rent on properties varies dramatically depending on naivity. Be aware some try to charge you in pounds not ytl for the same amount. seek advice from expats on here re costs per month depending on what you want. i hope that helps a little
