No its not the norm, finding work - thats not commission based nonsense is quite difficult. If you wish to work in a hotel you will need to be bilingual. There are other jobs - bar work etc. That is unless you mean working as a cleaner - as opposed to reception / dealing with clients.
Many people take the self employed route, by offering services to ex pats or set up small shops or businesses. Childcare generally is not a problem. There are a number of small franchises available, some useless others workable, but you need to have some savings if you are to invest in this type of thing. There are also a few work from home oppotunities on the internet, though you need to be careful with these and lucky to find something decent.
It is a wise move as you said to come out for 6-12 months (rent first, as there is no shortage of these) before you take the final plunge.
Moving to a new country and setting up financially is never an easy task, but if you can get over the first hurdle and you are motivated anything is possible.
Just don?t go and work as a commission only sales person for a real estate company as it?ll be the quickest money you never earnt:)
Good luck.