Have you ever been to Luanda, Angola? Do you enjoy semba music? Have you ever wondered how researchers conduct cost-of-living surveys globally? This summer, I had the opportunity to survey Luanda onsite. Join me as I recount one of my days in this vibrant city.
I started my day with scrambled eggs, lemon water, and tea for breakfast. Anticipating a busy day of surveying, I packed some fruit in my bag as a quick snack.
I engaged in a productive discussion with our local housing contact, who provided valuable updates on the expatriate rental market. I gained crucial insights for expatriates considering a move to Luanda.
Following our meeting, I joined the housing source for tours of expatriate apartments. These fully furnished units come complete with Wi-Fi, TV, and housekeeping services. I learned that many expats prefer these all-inclusive apartments due to concerns about after-sale services in Luanda.
I started my afternoon visiting various car dealers to collect prices for new vehicles. Interestingly, some dealers provided quotes in U.S. dollars, explaining that prices in dollars are stable while the Angolan kwanza is depreciating. They mentioned kwanza prices require frequent updates.
My next stop was exploring shopping malls to gather prices from a diverse range of establishments:
This comprehensive approach ensures a thorough understanding of everyday living costs in Luanda. After a full day of data collection and city exploration, I returned to my hotel for a well-deserved dinner and to review the day's findings.
One of the most memorable moments of my trip occurred on my very first day in Angola. I was very excited to arrive at the airport and I needed to buy a SIM card to connect with my driver. However, when I approached the counter I quickly realized that none of my credit cards worked and I had no Angolan kwanza in my pocket.
The staff behind the counter must have noticed my confusion after my long-haul flight. Instead of turning me away, they showed remarkable kindness. To my surprise, they handed me a free SIM card, allowing me to contact my driver. That small act of generosity made a world of difference. It eased my stress and left a lasting impression of the warmth and hospitality of the Angolan people. In that moment, I felt less like a stranger in a new city and a little more at home.
Conducting a cost-of-living survey offers unique insights into both the economic landscape and daily life in a foreign city. From housing preferences to currency fluctuations, each piece of data tells a story about life in Luanda. Whether you're a fellow researcher, a company considering expatriate assignments, or simply curious about life in different parts of the world, I hope this glimpse into my day in Luanda has been both informative and engaging.
On the Road Again: 70 Years of Collecting Cost-of-Living Across the Globe.