a single prof. considering a 12-month expat assignment in UK (from NYC metro area) with annual USD$108K (no gross-up for allowances); 1-time relo allowance (same for repat): $5000; 600 lbs of cargo; transportation $1000 pm; COL $1800 pm (fixed amt vs. percentage of salary); housing (1 furnished bdrm flat) $2400 (includes utilities cable/tv & maintenance) & if not furnished $10,000 for furniture; 5-day home finding trip w/companion; 30 day temp living; 4 home trips/year; tax equalization; tax assistance (2 consults (on depart/on reentry) & 1-hr consult during year; tax return prep (USA/UK); all home country benefits continue to apply. My concerns: housing allowance (is it realistic?). Work is 30 miles sw central london)..where can I live that allows cosmo feel of NYC metro area, is reasonable commute to Central London (4 tube stops) & in vicinity of railway to commute to work; or go by car (M32?) if needed . Also, is fixed COL adj. reasonable..(would like to revisit the amt if COL fluctuates by X%, but am not sure what that % should be. Any suggestions? Would also like input on what currency conversion fees could be per month (this is supposed to be covered by COL amt). I drive everywhere at home; would like to consider same in UK; Should I consider leasing a car? Tks in advance!
