I've even seen some groups of teachers get quite competitive over how little they can spend a month and i personally enjoy being able to actual build a bank balance rather than just making ends meet as i was when i left the West.

The guy I am referring to was basically an american hobo with one set of clothes, who didnt believe in using his washing machine, and apart from an expensive looking camera and some dollar savings, just had himself, his knapsack...and no wife.

Let them squabble...it has to be better than being on the dole back in the west for them. They wouldn't be employable elsewhere.