Full Time House Helper

[grahamw48]

During the last period of residence my family had in the Phils (3 years), we used the services of two of the ex-wife's nieces, who lived in.

Only thing we avoided letting them do was cook...and also, after one of them attempted to wash the new electric rice cooker by submerging it in water...washing up.

They were paid the monthly going rate for a live-in maid, whatever it was at the time. Obviously a rather different relationship when it's a relative, and nice for the kids too, who had an extra playmate and guardian.

[jake]

During the last period of residence my family had in the Phils (3 years), we used the services of two of the ex-wife's nieces, who lived in.

Only thing we avoided letting them do was cook...and also, after one of them attempted to wash the new electric rice cooker by submerging it in water...washing up.

They were paid the monthly going rate for a live-in maid, whatever it was at the time. Obviously a rather different relationship when it's a relative, and nice for the kids too, who had an extra playmate and guardian.

The rice cooker story reminds me of a neighbour who asked his helper to clean the car. Poor girl had just started working for them and used a scotch brite. I thought it was hilarious and he did see the funny side eventually!
Paying somebody the monthly going rate is always a good idea. Some foreigners may overpay because they see poverty and the living conditions the person was brought up in. Not a good idea.