| Easy Expat

Alliance Française - Parlez vous Francais?

siddlobo | 30 September, 2008 11:09

Welcome to the third article in easyexpat’s series on language and cultural institutes. In this issue, the spotlight is on Alliance Française, an organization whose main mission is to promote French outside its own country’s borders.

While most people can manage ‘Bonjour’ or the famous ‘Bon Appetit’, this wasn’t enough for some French lovers. Set up in 1883 by a group of eminent men including the scientist Louis Pasteur and the writers Jules Verne and Ernest Renan, this institution’s aim is to spread the French language throughout the world. A mission well accomplished with a network of over 1071 institutions in 133 countries, from far the largest in the world! From India to Australia, UK to U.S, every year approximately 440,000 students learn a few more French words at one of its many centres. In fact, so great is its success in spreading the French language and culture that in 2005, along with the Societe Dante Alighieri, the British Council, the Goethe Institute, the Instituto Cervantes and the Instituto Camões, the Alliance Française was awarded the Prince of Asturias Award for outstanding achievements in communications and the humanities.

Courses offered

There are a number of courses offered and levels vary from Beginner to Advanced. At the head quarters in Paris, there are many options available including short, intensive courses or more relaxed options, evening classes or day courses. General French language courses can be combined with professional courses, customized courses and workshops.

Professional courses include courses that focus on Business French, Medical French, Tourism French and Legal French. Or you can opt for a customized course with emphasis on phonetics, private lessons or self-guided learning options. Workshops include written, oral and thematic workshops. For those who’d like to teach French as a second language, Alliance Française also offers ‘Teacher’s training’ options.

All courses end with tests. Upon successful completion of these tests, you will receive a certification recognized by ALTE (Association of Language Testers in Europe). The DELF (diplôme d’études en langue française) and the DALF (diplôme approfondi de langue française) are official diplomas issued by the French ministry of education to certify your command of the French language. These definitely come in handy for those applying for jobs in a French-speaking country.

Fees and Schedule

Given the wide variety of options available, fees vary widely. Fees also depend on the size of class and duration of the course. An Intensive General French Course of 20 hours per week can cost between 160 and 225 euros while an extensive course of 9 hours per week cost between 80 and 100 euros. For a more detailed look at the fees and schedules of the Alliance Francaise in Paris, log onto http://www.alliancefr.org/

For a listing of some of the other franchises in other countries, log onto http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alliance_fran%C3%A7aise

For those of you looking to learn French, Bon chance. Give your local Alliance Française a call.

Festivals in Europe this October

siddlobo | 24 September, 2008 16:05

Autumn Festival, Normandy, France
19^th October – 30^th November
The Autumn Festival in Normandy features top productions in theatre, dance and music. It presents 60 performances in cities including Dieppe, Rouen and Le Havre, as well as smaller towns like Le Grand-Quevilly and Montivilliers. Highlights of this year's event include homage to all things Argentinean with a carte blanche to Belgian choreographer Wim Vandekeybus.
http://www.automne-en-normandie.com/entertainments/index

Eurochocolate, Perugia, Italy
18^th - 26^th October
If you’re a chocolate lover, this is the place to be. This is Europe’s most popular chocolate festival and has made Perugia the chocolate capital of Europe. For nine days, this town transforms itself into a huge open-air pastry-shop dedicated to chocolate lovers from all over. But not only do you get to indulge in chocolate, you’ll also learn everything there is to know about the "food of the gods". Give in to your sweet tooth, head for the Eurochocolate.
http://www.bellaumbria.net/Perugia/eurochocolate_eng.htm

Frankfurter Buchmesse, Frankfurt, Germany
15^th – 19^th October
This one’s for the book worms. It’s claimed to be one of the most famous book fairs in the world.
http://www.buchmesse.de/en/fbf/

Oktoberfest, Munich, Germany
20^th September – 5^th October
This is the ultimate homage to beer. When one thinks of Oktoberfest, images of crowded beer tents, huge beer mugs handled by big bosomed women in drendils and men in lederhozen come to mind. All of which is true. But no words can truly describe the experience of thousands of people crammed in a huge carnival atmosphere enjoying the lively Bavarian music and its equally popular brew. Each year over six million visitors throng to the Oktoberfest to be part of this heady experience. Be part of the 175^th year celebrations this year.
http://www.oktoberfest.de/en/

Seafood Festvial (Fiesta de Exaltacion del Marisco), O Grove, Spain
3^rd -12^th October
As the name itself suggests, this is the place for sea food lovers. Indulge yourself and pick from a mouth watering array of mussels, clams, langostines, prawns, scallops, oysters, lobsters, crabs and of course fish! This festivals attracts over 200,000 seafood lovers from all across Europe and is supposed to be the place for the best seafood in Europe.
http://travelguides.lastminute.com/sisp/index.htm?fx=event&event_id=21429

Wigstöckel, Berlin, Germany
2^nd – 5^th October
This is an event that attracts crossdressers and transgendered people from across Europe. It features an entertaining show and is guaranteed to be an interesting experience – whether or not you’re in the crossdressing scene.
http://www.wigstoeckel.com/index2_en.php

Budapest Autumn Festival, Budapest, Hungary
10^th – 19^th October
The Budapest Autumn Festival showcases performances by some of the most significant progressive artists from all genres. The events aim to provide exposure and recognition for new Hungarian artists.
http://www.budapestinfo.hu/en/calendar_of_events/budapest_autumn_festival_2008

Wexford Opera Festival, Wexford, Ireland
16^thOctober – 2^nd November
This is a small but perfectly formed and well respected festival featuring premier opera performances. This is the 57^th year that the festival has been around and highlights of this year’s performances include The Snow Maiden by Snegurochka and The Mines of Sulphur by Richard Rodney Bennett.
http://wexfordopera.com

Please note that there may be changes to the dates, events and line-ups at the festivals. For detailed information, check the official websites.

Sidd Lobo

Freelance copywriter based out of Munich

Cervantes Institute – Espanola anybody?

siddlobo | 17 September, 2008 08:26

In this week’s article, the spotlight is on the Cervantes Institute. Established in 1991, the Cervantes Institute is a non-profit organization created by the Spanish government to spread Spanish language and culture to the rest of the world. Named after Miguel de Cervantes, the author of Don Quixote and seen as one of the most noteworthy figures in Spanish literature, this institution has earned itself an excellent reputation. In 2005, along with the Societe Dante Alighieri, the British Council, the Goethe Institute, the Alliance Francaise and the Instituto Camões, the Cervantes Institute was awarded the Prince of Asturias Award for outstanding achievements in communications and the humanities. Modeled on the principles of the Goethe Institute, it is now the largest organization in the world responsible for promoting the Spanish language and culture. With over 54 centres in over 20 countries, it’s easy to see why.

Activities offered at the Cervantes Institute

The primary focus of the Cervantes Institute is to teach Spanish as a second language. There are three main levels of courses offered: Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced and exams are conducted to gauge if participants have satisfactorily completed their course. Diplomas of Spanish as a Secondary Language are recognized and offered by the Spanish Ministry of Education, Culture and Sport. In keeping with the times, the Cervantes Institute also has a strong online presence and offers many online language training courses.

Spanish language is not the only focus of the Cervantes Institute. It also plays an important role in promoting the country’s culture. The Institute hosts many cultural programmes including the famous Spain Film Festival and the Festival of Flamenco. It also regularly holds concerts, art exhibitions, book presentations and lectures on Spanish culture.

The Cervantes Institute also offers automated free translator service via the telephone and boasts of over 580,000 successful translations to date.

Courses offered

There are a number of different courses offered. From short intensive courses to longer courses, individual programmes to group programmes, you can choose what’s best for you. Courses run throughout the year and a short exam will determine your level at the start. If you opt for a course at one of the Cervantes locations in Spain, chances are that you can tailor it to specific needs like ‘Spanish for Lawyers’ or ‘Spanish for Teachers’. Or for those looking for a more fun alternative, you can combine you language sessions with flamenco classes. Also expect much socialization, partying, tapas, salsa and sporting action from your language holiday.

Fees and Schedules

Fees vary widely as there are a number of options available. In general, lessons cost between 150 euros and 250 euros per week (excluding accommodation) along with an enrolment fee. Accommodation varies from 100 to 175 euros per week depending on season and kind of accommodation chosen. For more details on fees, schedules and courses available, visit http://www.cervantes.to/

For a complete listing of worldwide Cervantes Institutions, click here. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Instituto_Cervantes

Sidd Lobo

Goethe Institut – promoting German language and culture

siddlobo | 03 September, 2008 22:25

Since most readers of easyexpat.com are generally globe trotters who call many countries home, we’ve decided to do a series on various prominent institutions that bring their country’s culture to the world. Today’s article focuses on the Goethe Institut.

Established in 1951, the Goethe Insitut is a German non-profit organization set up mainly to promote the German language and culture outside German-speaking countries. It was set up initially to provide training for foreign German teachers in Germany but it has now grown into a worldwide institution with over 3300 employees and approximately 278 million euros at its disposal.

While its primary concern is to promote the German language, the Goethe Institut also plays an active role in promoting the country’ culture. It provides information on German society and politics and also promotes inter-cultural relations through exchange of films, music, theatre and literature. It's done such a great job that in 2005, along with the Societe Dante Alighieri, the British Council, the Alliance Francaise, the Instituto Cervantes and the Instituto Camões, the Goethe Institute was awarded the Prince of Asturias Award for outstanding achievements in communications and the humanities.

German language courses offered

The Goethe Institut offers a number of language courses and different options from on-site courses to distance courses. It even has language training facilities on websites like Second Life. The institute has much to brag about. With over 50 years of experience and more than 170,000 participants in their German courses each year in 80 countries, it is definitely one of the most reputed programmes available to learn the German language.

The Goethe Institut also combines its language courses with a cultural immersion into Germany. It’s one to explore if you’re trying to get your feet wet about the country. These cultural and leisure programmes combine language courses with frequent city excursions, concerts, theatre visits, parties and operas – a great way to explore the city, make new friends and learn a new language.

The institute has also developed a rigorous series of examinations for learning German as a second language. These exams are set for different levels from basic to advanced and can be taken both in Germany and abroad. The tests (TestDaF) are recognised by the German Academic Exchange Service and are especially aimed at people interested in studying at German universities. You can take examinations at any level, either at the Goethe-Institut or with any of 265 examination partners.

Fees and schedule

Courses are offered year-round at most locations and begin at the start of each month. In general, it’s advisable to sign up for a course one month in advance. Summer courses fill up quickly so best to book your seat three months in advance. For people who need to apply for visas to study and stay in Germany, it’s advised to apply four months in advance. Fees vary widely. Eight week courses without accommodation are 680 euros while a 2-week intensive, all inclusive programme costs 1,420 euros. For more detailed information on courses, schedules and fees, check the official website at www.goethe.de

Good luck or as they say in German ‘Viel glueck’.

Sidd Lobo

Festivals in Europe this September

siddlobo | 26 August, 2008 11:53

From music to fashion, yachts to seafood, there are loads of festivals happening all across Europe. Here are some of the top ones to watch out for.

Edinburgh International Festival, Scotland
8^th – 31^st August

Concerts, opera, theatre, ballet, dance, orchestra – the world-renown Edinburgh Festival has it all. Performances take place in six major concert halls and theatres and a number of smaller venues as well. The best occasion to savour the classics.
http://www.eif.co.uk/

Burgundy Wine Press Festival, Chenove, France
Whole of September

This is one for wine lovers. Chenove is a must see on any wine tour and is home to the Dukes of Burgundy presses built in 1238. During the month of September, some of these presses are started up so visitors can see how wine was made in the old days. Other treats include traditional art and craft demonstrations, jazz performances, traditional music and dances and gastronomic delights like smoked sausages and Burgundy snails.

Iznajar Fair (La Feria Grande), Iznajar, Spain
7^th – 11^th September

This fair shows that you can be religious and still have fun. Featuring all night parties and beautiful processions led by musicians singing choruses, part of the festival pays tribute to the patron Saint of Le Virgin de la Piedad. http://www.ixeo.com/Events/Spain_Izn%C3%A1jarFairLaFeriaReal_Izn%C3%A1jar/LG-EN/Content.aspx

London Fashion Week, London, England
24^th-28^th September

This is for the fashion aficionados. UK’s ultimate fashion event, it features over 150 top designers showcasing their collection. It’s your chance to grab the latest in fashion at fantastic discounts. Make sure you book tickets well in advance. For more details, log onto http://www.londonfashionweekend.co.uk/

Monaco Yacht Show, Monte Carlo, Monaco
24^th- 27^th September

Love yachts? This is the place to be. Rub shoulders with the rich and famous and feast your eyes on some of the most luxurious yachts ever. This is the only show dedicated to Superyachts of 25 metres and longer. For more details, log onto http://www.monacoyachtshow.com/index.shtml

Thames Festival, London, England
13^th and 14^th September

Here’s a fantastic way to enjoy free entertainment in the heart of London. Celebrations take place between the Westminister Bridge and the Tower Bridge and Londoners come together to dance, listen to music, watch movies, drink, eat, play and sail. There are also loads of fireworks, parades and torchlit processions. Find out more at http://www.thamesfestival.org/

Braemar Highland Games, Scotland
6^th September

This is often known as the most famous and best Highland Games. The event comes complete with Scottish Pipe Bands, pipers, dancers, international athletes – all in a beautiful setting surrounded by hills. Given its huge popularity, it’s good to book your tickets in advance. Find out more on http://www.braemargathering.org/

Galway Oyster Fest, Galway, Ireland
25^th- 28^th September

Here’s a festival that celebrates the start of the oyster season. As the name itself suggests, this is for the seafood lovers. Head here for four days of gourmet seafood, live music and the best Guinness. http://www.galwayoysterfest.com/

Oktoberfest, Munich, Germany
20^th September – 5^th October

This is the ultimate homage to beer. When one thinks of Oktoberfest, images of crowded beer tents, huge beer mugs handled by big bosomed women in drendils and men in lederhozen come to mind. All of which is true. But no words can truly describe the experience of thousands of people crammed in a huge carnival atmosphere enjoying the lively Bavarian music and its equally popular brew. Each year over six million visitors throng to the Oktoberfest to be part of this heady experience. Be part of the 175^th year celebrations this year. http://www.oktoberfest.de/en/

See also our previous article on the beer festivals in Germany.

Please note that there may be changes to the dates, events and line-ups at the festivals. For detailed information, check the official websites.

Sidd Lobo
Freelance writer based out of Munich

Free Independent Wealth Management seminars for foreign nationals

easyexpat | 20 August, 2008 13:29

HSBC offers a series of free Independent Wealth Management seminars for foreign nationals.
The next seminar presented by HSBC International Financial Advisers (UK) Limited (HSBC International) is in London on 17 September 2008 and will cover international tax and financial planning.

Are you a foreign national living and working in London? If so, there is every chance that you could enjoy a number of tax advantages that this status offers. But where can you get reliable advice and guidance on effective financial planning? This is where one of HSBC International’s free seminars could help you. Seminar details are given below.

The seminar, entitled ‘International tax and financial planning for foreign nationals’, will cover a wide range of topics that could be of benefit to anyone living and working abroad. In particular, how you can benefit from our independent financial planning advisory service.

HSBC is one of the biggest and most respected names in the world of finance, with an unrivalled global reach. We can give you access to a truly Independent Wealth Management service that starts with a no-obligation, comprehensive financial planning review. You can be assured that your adviser will select only the most appropriate solutions to help you achieve your financial goals and aspirations.

To find out more about the seminar and to reserve a seat, please call +44 207 991 9641, or email hsbcint.financialadviser@hsbc.com. Leaflets also available here.

Date: Wednesday 17 September 2008
Time: 6pm to 8pm, refreshments served
Location: HSBC Private Bank, The Grand Room, 78 St James’s Street, London SW1A 1JB

Different legislation in Europe for immigrants

easyexpat | 19 August, 2008 14:20

As there are more voice in Europe calling for unifying rules for immigrant workers, we present an overview of the situation in some countries:

United Kingdom: 509,800 legal immigrants in 2006

No quota
No necessity of a contract for integration
Family regrouping
Necessity of a work contract (with point system)
Language test

France: 135,100

No quota
Family regrouping (with conditions)
Necessity of a contract for integration
Necessity of a work contract (with a list of priority sectors)
Language test

Spain: 803,000 (the government has proceeded to a large legalisation)

No quota
Family regrouping (with conditions after 1 year)
Necessity of a contract for integration

Belgium: 83,400

No quota
No necessity of a contract for integration
Family regrouping (with conditions of income)

Netherlands: 67,700

No quota
No necessity of a contract for integration
Family regrouping (limited to the work contract duration)
Language test

Denmark: 23,000

No quota
No necessity of a contract for integration
Family regrouping

Germany: 558,500

No quota
No neccessity of a contract for integration
Language test
Family regrouping (for contracts more than 1 year)

Italy: 181,500

No necessity of a contract for integration
Quota
Family regrouping (with conditions)
Necessity of a work contract (with conditions of income)

Source: Le Monde 8/07/08

In the European Union, illegal immigration measures are taken with a majority vote. However countries are still in charge of legal immigration rules and EU decisions can only be voted with unanimity. There is no common agreement about mass regularisation, despite EU minimum conditions for sending back clandestine.

However, since the publishing in 2005 of a report on "approche communautaire de la gestion des migrations économiques", the EU Commission has suggested to set up a Blue card, equivalent to the US Green card, that will give access to the whole EU work market.

Largest ever survey of expats - Final results

easyexpat | 05 August, 2008 17:05

Four months ago, we talked about HSBC's project to conduct the largest ever survey of expats. The project aimed to give more than 2000 expats across four continents the opportunity to have their say on what life is really like for people living and working away from home, looking at opportunities that come with starting a new life in a foreign country away from home, and the challenges and difficulties that they may face at home and at work.

EasyExpat gave echo to this project, and therefore is today able to have access to the final results.

The survey revealed that Singapore, the UAE and the US are the best locations to be an expat, according to findings of its Expat Explorer survey, the largest international survey of expats ever conducted.

Expat Existence, the first report in The Expat Explorer Series, ranked the top rated places to live based on expats’ living standards, an expat’s ability to earn and save, a country’s popularity (longevity), and the level of luxury experienced.

The Expat Explorer Survey questioned 2,155 expatriates across four continents, examining the opportunities, challenges and difficulties that come with a life away from home. This included how easy expats found it to integrate, how they viewed the changes in their lifestyle, and their children’s experiences in a new country.

Paul Say, Head of Marketing and Communications at HSBC Bank International, said: “The global expat community is vast and living in foreign countries means expats don't often have the normal outlets to express their viewpoints. This survey has allowed us to delve into the lives of these expats on an unprecedented scale and reveal some fascinating trends into how life differs from country to country.”

The UK (14th) and France (13th) were some of the lowest rated expat destinations in the survey, scoring low on their levels of luxury and accommodation. Spain and China also rated poorly, ranking 12th and 11th respectively. Australia featured 10th in the survey, scoring highly on levels of luxury, ability to earn and save and accommodation, but scoring lowly for longevity.

Earn and Save

Hong Kong-based expats have the highest salaries in the world, with almost half (49%) earning more than £100,000 p.a., with the highest paying professions in finance and management. Despite the current economic climate, expats spend more whilst still being able to save. More than half (52%) of expats spend more on food, 49% more on shopping and 45% more on socialising in their new country of residence and 58% also invest and save more in their resident country. Top countries for saving included India, the UAE and Singapore.

Accommodation

Almost three quarters (74%) of expats living in Singapore said the quality of their accommodation had improved since moving away from home, the highest amount recorded in the study. This was followed by expats living in the United States (61%) and Belgium (59%). The UK was identified as the most expensive expat location for accommodation, with more than three quarters (85%) of expats living in the UK revealing that their living costs had increased. Only one-fifth (19%) of respondents living in the UK stated that the quality of their accommodation had increased. India was the cheapest country, with only one-fifth (21%) of expats living in the country claiming that their costs of accommodation had increased.

Longevity

Europe is a popular destination overall for its longevity – more than three quarters (82%) of expats now living in the Netherlands have been there for three or more years, followed by Germany (77%) and Spain (76%). Ireland and New Zealand have the greatest percentage of global travellers, with more than three quarters (80%) of respondents originally from both countries stating that they had been away from home for longer than three years.

Luxury

The report also investigates whether expats’ lifestyles are more luxurious than the lives they left behind and how long people are choosing to stay living away from home. Countries were rated on a number of categories including access to private healthcare, access to more than one property, ability to own a pool and to employ staff (such as cleaners).

Across the 11 categories of perceived luxuries, on average expats reported an increase in eight of these factors, with employing staff ranked as the highest increase. The UAE was the most luxurious destination, with expats enjoying increases in 10 of the 11 categories, followed by Singapore and India. The UK was ranked the least luxurious with decreases recorded in nine of the 11 luxuries.

“The Expat community is highly important to a number of different economies throughout the world and getting this kind of insight into their everyday lives is helping to shed more light on a highly diverse and far reaching range of individuals,” said Mr Say.

“Overall, the Expat Explorer survey will deliver some unique insights into a range of facets of Expat life, with our next report looking at the subject of offspring and some of the issues Mums and Dads face as parents of expat children. Our third report, centred around Integration, will then focus on some of the challenges faced by expats as they move from place to place.“

Top ranked countries
Rank	Accommodation	Earn & Save	Longevity	Luxury
1	Singapore	India	Netherlands	UAE
2	US	Hong Kong	Germany	Singapore
3	Belgium	Singapore	US	India

To see more of the findings and the full league table of the first report in the Expat Explorer series, visit http://www.offshore.hsbc.com/expatsurvey.

(More)

Top Summer Festivals in Europe this August

siddlobo | 28 July, 2008 17:38

It’s summer, it’s sizzling and it’s time to party. What better way than with some of the hippest, funkiest parties and festivals all over Europe this August.

Aste Nagusia (Semana Grande)
10^th – 17 August (dates to be confirmed)

This party offers visitors nine days and nights of non-stop entertainment. Semana Grande boasts of a week of varied events. From bull fights to fireworks competitions, music concerts to street entertainment, beauty pageants to theatre shows, sporting events to regatta, there’s something for everyone.
http://events.frommers.com/sisp/index.htm?fx=event&event_id=70330

Amsterdam Gay Pride
1^st -3^rd August

The gay pride in Amsterdam is wild! The streets along the canals are packed with revelers and the canals themselves become the venue for one of the world’s largest and most famous gay parades. Street parties abound and clubs are packed all weekend long. Blaring music, daring costumes and throngs of party people - an experience you’re not likely to forget.
http://www.amsterdamgaypride.nl/amsterdam/

Boom Festival, Portugal
11^th – 18^th August

The Boom Festival is set to take place on the shores of lake Idanha-a-Nova in Portugal. Best described as living entertainment, this festival merges different art forms with sustainable practices and performs to a hugely inter-cultural crowd.
http://www.boomfestival.org/boom2008/news.php

Cowes Week, Isle of Wight, England
28^th July – 9^th August

The highlight of the UK sailing calendar, the Cowes Week is the longest running regatta in the world. This is an enormous event featuring 1000 boats and another 200 spectator boats fighting for the best views. The party continues on land as well… live bands, barbeques, cocktail parties, yacht club balls and a spectacular fireworks finale are all on the cards.
http://www.flyingfishonline.com/courses_and_events/search_courses/193.asp?cid=3300&gclid=CPDw9pnq2pMCFQMOuwodWDuVig

Edinburgh International Festival, Scotland
8^th – 31^st August

The Great British Beer Festival
5^th- 9^th August, 2008

Here’s something for the beer lovers. For four continuous days of beer binging, head to the Great British Beer Festival at the Earl’s Court in London. A huge selection of over 450 different types of ales, fruit beers, ciders, stouts, bitters and international beers will spoil you for choice. And for those who’d like to learn more about what they drink, book early to join the tutored tasting session- designed to make a beer connoisseur out of you.
http://www.camra.org.uk/page.aspx?o=gbbf

ImpulsTanz, Vienna, Austria
10^th July – 10^th August

ImpulsTanz is a major contemporary dance festival held in Vienna every year. Thousands of dancers, choreographers and teachers from around the world come together at ImpulsTanz making it an event you’re unlikely to forget. If modern, bold, unconventional and contemporary describe the kind of event you’re looking for, look no further.
http://www.impulstanz.com/news/headlines/en

La Tomatina, Bunol, Spain
27^th August

Now this is fun. This August, head to the world’s largest tomato fight. The action happens in Bunol, a little town in Spain about 30 miles from the Mediterranean. On the last Wednesday of August, the locals explode into a tomato flinging frenzy. For a full week leading to the epic ‘batalla’, the town is filled with parades, fireworks, food and street parties. Join in the battle frenzy.
http://www.donquijote.org/culture/spain/fiestas/tomatina.asp

Notting Hill Carnival, England
Sunday and the following bank holiday in August

Street drums, singers, eye catching floats and costumed dancers moving to a pulsing beat are just some of the things you can expect to find at Europe’s largest street party. In fact, this carnival is often referred to as the second largest in the world after Rio. Definitely one to check out if you love some ‘Caribbeana’.
http://www.icons.org.uk/theicons/collection/collection/notting-hill-carnival

Inter-Celtic, Lorient, Brittany
1^stAugust – 31^st August (dates to be confirmed)

This is a treat for Celtic fans and offers Celtic music, theatre and dance performaces. The biggest Celtic festival, visitors can experience fiddle music, bagpipe lessons, Gaelic workshops and celidhs. Not to forget, an abundant supply of Celtic food, scotches and whiskeys.
http://www.worldeventsguide.com/event/419/Lorient-France/Interceltic-Festival-of-Lorient-Festival-Interceltique-de-Lorient.html

Please note that there may be changes to the dates, events and line-ups at the festivals. For detailed information, check the official websites.

Sidd Lobo
Freelance writer based out of Munich

Smoking bans- no butts about it

siddlobo | 09 July, 2008 13:23

Smoking bans seem to be all the rage with governments these days. A rash of bans have sprouted especially in Europe in recent years. A number of countries have joined the non-smoking wagon and a number of others are scrambling for their turn to join in.

Different countries have implemented the ban to different degrees. Some countries like Albania, Ireland, Cyprus, England, Iceland, Estonia, Finland, Scotland and recently Netherlands and France have opted to go completely smoke-free and ban smoking in all work places and public buildings including restaurants and cafes. Some countries have chosen to tread a bit more lightly. Austria for example bans smoking in public buildings open to children and young people but does not include work places. Others like Germany agreed to ban smoking in restaurants and pubs but will allow exemptions for small bars and premises with separate smoking rooms. Spain, Slovakia and Slovenia have allowed smoking in separate zones in pubs and restaurants. Switzerland imposes partial restriction on indoor workplaces and Luxembourg imposes a total ban on advertising and sponsoring smoking and a partial ban on smoking in public places.

The list is not limited to Europe alone. In recent years, many countries around the world including Australia, Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Singapore and a number of states in the Untied States have banned smoking in public areas. From the above, it’s clear the world wants to go smoke-free. Below are some key effects of such a move.

Some key effects of the smoking ban

Great for health: Results actually show a huge drop in the number of heart attacks and lung-related diseases in many countries that have enacted the smoking ban. e..g. In the first eighteen months that Peublo, Colorado enacted the smoking ban, hospital admissions for heart attacks dropped 27%. Scotland showed a 17% year-on-year drop in heart attack admissions since the ban.

Lower tobacco usage: Smoking bans make it generally easier for people to quit smoking. In UK, according to a survey, 22% of smokers quit after the ban was implemented in public areas. Cigarette sales have generally dropped in these countries and there is a lower chance of young people becoming habitual smokers.

Business blues: There’s a mixed opinion on the effects of the ban on businesses. Many restaurant and pub owners complain of lost business. Counter-arguments are that these smoke-free areas will now attract the non-smokers to their premises.

Some key criticisms

Needless to say, not everyone’s happy about the bans. Smokers and business owners are the most upset. Some key criticisms are:

Loss of personal freedom: Many smokers complain that the ban is an infringement on their personal freedom and choice. They believe that it is their right to choose whether to smoke or not. Many smokers in France for example feel like it is a change in their complete lifestyle. Their images of a cup of coffee and croissant best enjoyed with a cigarette have gone up in smoke…. literally.

Economic loss: Restaurant and bar owners have complained that many of them have reported losses and many smaller establishments have had to close down pending the losses caused by the bans.

Bans simply move smoking elsewhere: By moving smoking out of closed places and buildings, critics say that the ban has only moved smoking to the doorways. Some also claim that this has reduced productivity as smokers now have to make longer trips to the ground floor or office exit for a smoke.

Smoking ban paradoxes

This sudden rush to go healthy has resulted in some curious scenarios.

In the Netherlands for example, smoking marijuana in coffee shops is permitted but this cannot be mixed with tobacco. i.e. You can’t smoke tobacco but you can smoke marijuana!

In some countries, the rules merely require that smoking areas are clearly designated. How this actually makes air quality better or reduces second hand smoking is still an unknown.

One of the key reasons smoking bans have been enforced across so many countries is to reduce the rising healthcare costs. While many optimistic figures have been reported in a number of countries, critics argue that this will eventually increase the burden on healthcare as the new non-smokers and reduced smokers will be living much longer!

One way or another, more and more countries are getting stricter about smoking bans. It’s time we got used to it.

Sidd Lobo
Freelance writer based out of Munich

Top European Festivals this July

siddlobo | 27 June, 2008 11:31

The sun is shining, the hem lines have risen, the beaches are packed and the holidays have begun. Summer is here and there are loads of festivals happening all across Europe. Here are some of the famous ones.

Barcelona Summer Festival
1^st June – 30^th August

Popularly known as the Grec, this festival takes place in a Greek-styled amphitheatre near Barcelona’s Olympic Stadium. It is one of the most famous art festivals in the world. It hosts well-acclaimed dance, theatre and music performances ranging from contemporary music and performance arts to classical and traditional acts. Popular among local and international visitors.

http://www.barcelonafestival.com/cat/

Festival d’Avignon
4^th July – 26^th July

A fusion of avant-garde theatre, drama and dance, Festival d’Avignon is one of France’s oldest and most prestigious cultural festivals. It was founded in 1947 by Jean Vilar, a controversial French director and has now gained international acclaim. Performances take place all across the city – in churches, cloisters, squares and the Palace of the Pope. If you’re interested in modern theatre, dance and drama, it doesn’t get better than this.

http://www.festival-avignon.com/index.php?lg=en

ImpulsTanz, Vienna, Austria
10^th July – 10^th August

http://www.impulstanz.com/news/headlines/en

Love Parade, Dortmund, Germany
19^th July

Love Parade is the largest techno gathering in the world. About 1.5 million ravers joined this mobile party in previous years. This year, the party is scheduled to take place in Dortmund. So book your tickets now and join one of the world’s largest street parties.

Salzburg Festival
26^th July - 31^st August

The Salzburg Festival is a show for the classics lovers. This year’s show is set to host well acclaimed names in opera, concert and drama. Held in Mozart’s birthplace of Salzburg, there’s hardly a more fitting location for it. During the festival, for five continuous weeks, the city attracts world class talent and audience alike.

http://www.salzburgerfestspiele.at/

Medieval Spectacle, Carcassonne, France
7^th July – 29^th August

As the name says, the Medieval Spectacle is in fact, just that. Set against the backdrop of UNESCO’s World Heritage site of Carcassonne, this event lets you experience the old days as it once was. Artists and troubadours entertain visitors in the walled city - jousting, fencing and acrobatics performances abound. For a day trip back in time, this might be the perfect option.

Montreux Jazz Festival, Switzerland
4^th July – 19^th July

This star-studded jazz festival boasts of big names in the business from R.E.M to Quincy Jones. If you’re planning to hit some of the main performances, be sure to book tickets well in advance. For some free fun, join the street parties and free entertainment that sprouts up all over the city.

www.montreuxjazz.com

Festival of the Near Death Experience, Las Nieves, Spain
29^th July - to be confirmed

Now, here’s a weird one. Ever have a near death experience? Well, these guys in Spain have a rather bizarre way of sharing their tale and expressing gratitude. Every year, at the Festival of Near Death Experiences, people who’ve had near death experiences attend church in a coffin carried by their family members. The perfect time and venue to discuss and exchange stories, don’t you think? This strange festival takes place in the little town of Las Nieves on the border of Portugal. After service at the packed church, a procession carries the statue of Santa Maria to the cemetery and back.

Please note that there may be changes to the dates, events and line-ups at the festivals. For detailed information, check the official websites.

Sidd Lobo
Freelance writer based out of Munich

Dining with a difference

siddlobo | 19 June, 2008 13:00

We’ve all had those dinners we’ll never forget. Maybe it was the delicious food, the incomparable company, the superb service or the stunning setting… either way it was a meal to remember. And here are five more unique dining experiences from across Europe you’re not likely to forget in the near future.

Dans le Noir, London

Imagine having your dinner and the lights go out. If you’re dining at Dans le Noir, chances are that the lights will stay out throughout your meal. Dans le Noir is a ‘Dine in the Dark’ experience started by the Paul Guinot Foundation, an organization that supports the blind in France. The main aim of the restaurant is to promote awareness of what it is to be blind. As a result, all waiters are visually impaired and in an ironical fashion, they are the ones that guide the guests through the pitch black restaurants. Diners are asked to leave all potentially light-emitting gadgets outside the restaurant. The complete blackness of the setting tunes up your sensory experience and the rest of the meal is a guessing game as you grope around figuring out what you’re eating. The concept has become a hit and a chain of Dans le Noir restaurants have opened in France, London and Moscow.

If you’re up for the experience, log onto http://www.danslenoir.com/london/

‘s Baggers, Nuremberg

Isn’t it really annoying when the waiter gets your order wrong? Or seems to ignore you completely? If you're in ‘s Baggers, you won't have that problem. That’s because it doesn’t have any waiters. ‘s Baggers is the first automated restaurant. Customers simply use touch screen TVs to browse the menu and choose their meal. The order is sent real time to chefs upstairs (still of the old-fashioned human kind) who prepare the fresh, delicious meals. Once ready, the meal is put in a pot, given a sticker and a colour to match the customer’s seat and then sent sliding down a rollercoaster-like conveyor belt to reach the correct table.

To experience a prime example of German food and engineering, head to ‘s Baggers. http://www.sbaggers.de/mainger/?sid=restaurant&lang=en

De Kartofelkeller, Berlin

Here’s one for all you potato lovers. This restaurant pays homage to the humble spud. Potatoes have a starring role in all of the Kartofelkeller’s dishes. And there are almost a 100 of them to choose from.

So if you’re a potato fan, you’ll find nirvana at De Kartofelkeller, Berlin. http://www.kartoffelkeller.com/

Absolute Ice Bar, Stockholm, London

The Absolut Ice Bar is quite a cool experience and I mean that literally. Temperatures in the Ice Bar are well below zero. You’ll be given a cape and a fur coat to stay alive for the forty minutes or so that you’ll be in the ‘Below Zero’ zone. Drinks are served in fist-sized hollow ice cubes and you can pick them up from the ice blocks that make up the bar. In fact, all furniture is made of ice and once your forty minutes are up, you’ll be escorted to the warmer zone. Ice bars are gaining popularity and have opened up in London and Amsterdam too.

http://www.nordicseahotel.se/en/The-hotel/Food-and-drink/Absolut-Icebar-Stockholm/

Archipelago, London

Feeling a little adventurous? Then Archipelago is for you. Featuring an exotic menu including gnu, crocodile, locusts and kangaroo- just to name a few, this restaurant is definitely a walk on the wild side. For the more faint hearted, chicken, lamb and an extensive vegetarian menu is also available. Weird ingredients, crazy combinations and eclectic décor make this dining experience one you’ll remember long after.

http://www.toptable.co.uk/venues/restaurants/?id=993

Sidd Lobo
Freelance writer based out of Munich

Malaysia, my second home- enjoy a ten year holiday in Malaysia

siddlobo | 16 June, 2008 18:41

Malaysia is a tropical paradise – sunny days, warm evenings, sandy beaches and an easy lifestyle – all at a very affordable price. And to make it even more attractive, the government has introduced the Malaysia My Second Home programme. Commonly known as the MM2H programme, this is an international residency scheme that allows foreigners to live in the country on a multiple entry visa that can be renewed every ten years.

The MM2H programme has become a choice option for many seniors in western countries looking for a relaxed and comfortable retirement in a warm country. So far, over 8000 people have chosen this option and made Malaysia their new home. Read on and find out how you can enjoy a luxurious lifestyle at a fraction of what it costs in the west.

Who is eligible for the programme?

This programme is available to citizens of all countries except Israel, Serbia or Montenegro. Successful applicants are entitled to bring their spouse and unmarried children below the age of 18 years. Living in paradise does come at a certain cost. Applicants need to meet certain financial requirements.

Applicants below 50 years old are required to open a fixed deposit account of RM300,000 at any international bank with a local branch. After one year, the participant can withdraw up to RM240,000 for expenses, investment, children’s education and medical purposes. A minimum of RM60,000 must be maintained for the remaining stay in Malaysia.

Applicants above 50 years of age have to choose one of two options:

They need to invest a minimum of RM150,000 in a fixed deposit account at any international bank with a local branch
The need to show proof of a monthly off-shore income of at least RM10,000

At the end of one year, the participant can withdraw up to RM240,000 for expenses, investment, children’s education and medical purposes. As in the case of younger participants, a minimum of RM60,000 must be maintained for the remaining stay in Malaysia.

What are the main benefits?

Apart from the obvious benefits of sun and sand at an affordable price, there are some additional incentives for joining this programme. Chief among them are:

You are allowed to purchase residential property. Certain conditions and terms apply. Check the link below for more details
Love your wheels? No problem. You can bring in your car from home or purchase a local car without paying import duty, excise duty or sales tax
For those who want a little help at home, here’s some good news. Each participant is allowed to apply for one domestic helper in accordance to the rules and regulations set by the Immigration Department of Malaysia
And lastly, you can apply for an ID card which allows you to cross borders as a local instead of a foreigner. It must be noted that this card does not give you participant permanent resident status

Restrictions and things to watch out for

There are however some restrictions. If you’re a MM2H participant, you’re not allowed to work or be employed during your stay in Malaysia. Also, the government takes security very seriously. Any security threat or anti-government action can get you on the fast track out of the country.

How to apply

The first step to applying for your MM2H is to find an authorized ‘sponsor’. These ‘sponsors’ are private Malaysian companies that offer application and follow-up services to foreigners. Make sure you only use authorized sponsors as they are the ones licensed by the Ministry of Tourism. Charges for this service vary dramatically and it is wise to check with a few ‘sponsors’ before deciding on the right one for you. Below are links to some authorized ‘sponsors’ to help you get started.

http://www.mysecondhome.com.my/

http://visahome.com.my/

Want to find out more about the MM2H? Click here for more detailed information on moving to Malaysia: http://www.mm2h.gov.my/index.php

Sidd Lobo
Freelance writer based out of Munich

June: End of the paper airline ticket, welcome to electronic boarding pass for everybody

easyexpat | 09 June, 2008 14:55

As of June 1, IATA (International Air Transport Association) will no longer supply paper ticket stock to 60,000 travel agencies in 125 countries around the world. OK, most of you frequent traveller think already that paper airline tickets are past (for example, British Airways issued 790,000 airline tickets in March, of which 8,000 were paper), but in many other countries it is quite frequent, especially for long distance including different itinary and flights. Now the rules will be that you can just register with your passport (registration number might be requested, but not necessary).

In the urge of reducing costs everywhere, from baggage allowance to food on board, the elimination of paper airline tickets stands to reduce airline costs by as much as €2 billion worldwide and cut the cost of issuing a ticket from €6 to less than €1, according to Bryan Wilson of the International Air Transport Association (IATA). Whereas in June 2004, only 18% of tickets issued were e-tickets, by the end of March2008, the number had risen to 94%.

But paper tickets won't disappear immediately. In theory, the traveler holding the last paper ticket issued has up to one year to commence their journey and another year to use the return ticket before that ticket is no longer valid. Therefore, it is possible a paper ticket could still be floating through the system until May 31, 2010. In addition, not every airline is subject to IATA's electronic ticketing rules (it affects approximately 240 company members).

Anyway, it should trigger passagers to choose even more their booking through the Internet or directly with the airline company, rather than with travel agencies.

Easyexpat, with information from USAToday, Yahoo!, EuroNews and IHT.

Top Spring Festivals in Europe this June

siddlobo | 02 June, 2008 10:23

Spring is in full bloom and summer holidays are just around the corner. For those of you who are looking out for fun ways to spend this June, here are a couple of my favourite festivals all over Europe.

International Festival of Music and Dance, Granada, Spain
20th June – 6th July

Set against the jaw-dropping architecture of the Alhambara, the international festival of Music and Dance is a must visit for anyone who loves music with a generous helping of exquisite architecture. The city of Granada comes alive during the festival and the streets are filled with guitarists, Flamenco dancers and music lovers from around the world. Music ranges from the classical to world music. Definitely worth a visit.

http://www.whatsonwhen.com/sisp/index.htm?fx=event&event_id=13439

Music Festival, Paris
21st June

Fete de la Musique or the Music Festival in Paris is a fantastic way to enjoy free cheer in the city of lights. Hundreds of musicians gather in cafés, streets, bars to show off their skills to obliging locals and tourists. An air of camaraderie and merry-making pervades. Performances include everything from jazz to hip hop, rock to classical.

http://fetedelamusique.culture.fr/

Kiel Week Sailing Regatta, Germany
Last full week of June

If you love sailing, this is the event for you. Kiel Week is an annual sailing event held in Kiel and is the largest sailing event in the world. The party begins on the Friday before the official opening of the event with Soundcheck, a music festival with stag