Experience in Bangalore, India by advaith

What is it like to live in Bangalore? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Bangalore is about 3000 feet from sea level, so it isn't as hot as most other Indian cities. The air is moderately dry throughout the year. The summers have become a lot hotter than before with average temperatures ranging from 30-36*Celsius.

The winters are much milder and more bearable for most people, especially for people from the Western world. It is quite dusty sometimes, and the air has a lot of pollen so people who are sensitive to this could have a bit of a problem. Although it's nothing alarming, just a word of caution.

There is a little to see in-terms of history in the city itself, but the surrounding areas offer a bit more. In the city there are a good many parks spread out through out Lal bagh and Cubbon park being the big, stand out parks.

There is a lot of shopping that can be done (Commercial street, M.G road, Brigade road, Residency road, St. Marks road, Koramangala, Indira nagar and U.B city on Lavelle road for up market clothing & accessories and dining) and a lot of restaurants with almost every type of cuisine available.

Public transportation in general is bad, but the bus system is manageable with an up-coming Metro which has limited connectivity. The 'autos' or private 3-wheel 'taxis' are the worst with the drivers charging very erratic fares for something with no comfort, privacy or speed of commute, although they can be found and used quite extensively through out the city if you are willing to put up with 'some' inconvenience.

It is relatively safe in most parts of the city, people are general friendly and helpful. But be prepared to work hard for the smallest piece of information because Indian people in general are quite vague and unclear in communicating information. Private health care is manageable and good in some cases.

Above all, to be totally honest, unless you have some work or business in Bangalore, there is no benefit of coming here. For the tourists who do come it 'could' be quite disappointing.

How much does it cost to live in Bangalore?

Cost of living is cheap, for a decently built one bed room apartment in most parts of the city varies between Rs. 7000 - Rs 14000 or 140$ - 280$/month Could go upto 400$ in the center of the city and for a two bedroom apartment between 300$ - 600$. Many times even cheaper than the mentioned prices .Food could cost between 100$ (indian food) - 250$ (other cuisines)/month per person.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Bangalore? Is there any advice you can give?

It is very easy to find accommodation in Bangalore. There are plenty of apartments of various sizes available for rent.
There are many real estate agencies you can call to find accommodation. If you call Justdial: +918023333333 or www.justdial.com they will assist with real estate agents.
But with real estate agents one needs to be very careful and not go along with everything they say. There are good real estate agents who have private limited companies (pvt ltd) ask for these agents when you call Justdial.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Food is highly varied. There is a lot of indian food that is nice. But be sure to check for spice in the food. Here for breakfast Dosas, idlies and vadas, are the most popular indian food. Can be found anywhere. Idlies are the safest bet as they are steamed under high temperature and pressure and are made of rice. The pastes are very spicy and for the most part are not safe to eat, but if you are adventurous you could try them out sometime. Then are other dishes as well which you can ask the locals when you go to such an 'indian fast food' joint which are called 'darshinis'.
For lunch and dinner it's rice, roti or phulka or chapati (indian flat bread made of wheat)
with some fried n spiced vegetables and a liquid form of lentil soup.
There are all other cuisines as well.

What places would you recommend visiting in Bangalore?

Lal bagh
Cubbon park
Tipu's palace
There are a couple more, but nothing of real interest

Is it good to eat out in Bangalore? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

It's not safe in all places, especially indian food, but there are many places all over the city which are good. You have to keep an eye out for places that 'look clean' to you at the very least.
Indian food - 'mast kalandar' (church street, indira nagar, koramangala, jp nagar, jayanagar & many other areas)
'nandini'

Is the nightlife good in Bangalore? Where is good to go?

Night life was good, but not anymore because all restaurants, bars, pubs, lounges and discotheques are closed by 11:30 p.m.

ibar(park hotel), fbar, mynt & blue ginger (West End hotel), couch (m.g road), tavern (museum road),there are good restaurants n bars all along indira nagar 100 feet road and koramangala.

What advice would you give future students heading to Bangalore?

Be prepared for the change in food, transportation, weather and people.
You have to be very very patient and tolerant if you want to enjoy this city or country. Easy to say but that's the truth. All the best!!!