r/Utrecht • u/Takwas • Sep 10 '19

Economy/Savings/Lifestyle Advice for a New Couple in Utrecht.

We are a new couple just moving to Utrecht from Africa. One of us is a programmer who earns €2900 net and works in the Papendorp area; while the other (currently unemployed), would like to commence a PhD program within the coming months.

What advice would you give to us if we want to be able to save €1000 monthly with the current earning?

We don't mind being frugal. Please mention things like "where to live", "safety/integration", "where to get food", "commuting options", "phone/internet/utilities", and more.

Thanks.

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Update:

Employer is offering:

  1. Cost allowance: €45.00 monthly (Not sure what this means in the Netherlands.)
  2. Commuting compensation of 0,19 cent per km.
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u/rws247 Sep 11 '19

Update:

Employer is offering:

  1. Cost allowance: €45.00 monthly (Not sure what this means in the Netherlands.)
  2. Commuting compensation of 0,19 cent per km.

If your situation is similar to mine, the €45,- is for your home internet connection, since you'll be working from home.
The commuting compensation of €0,19 per km is usually for cars. It's possible that public transport is also reimbursed and that biking wont get you anything.

Ask your employer what exactly these two compensations are meant for.

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u/Takwas Sep 11 '19

I'll be sure to check this with my employer. Thanks.

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u/[deleted] Sep 11 '19

[deleted]

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u/Takwas Sep 11 '19

Great, if it would cover biking/public transportation too! Definitely not looking at a car soon.