Nostalgia
easyexpat
02 July, 2009 17:06
As we have just changed the design of EasyExpat, you will find bellow some print screen of the previous versions (you can also comment on the forum)
2001 - EasyExpat was called EasyAbroad: static website
2002 - Just before to become EasyExpat: dynamic... hmm trying to be serious in grey
2002-2007 - Except the colours, with the expansion of city guides, most of the changes are internal with new services, new sections...
2007-2009 - as screens got larger, the design enlarged its columns. The map has changed to show who is connected in the world; and always more services.
2009- ta ta !
Festivals around the world this July
siddlobo
29 June, 2009 16:39
Summer’s begun and so have the parties. Check out some of the most popular festivals and events from around the world this July.
Manchester International Festival, UK
2nd – 19th July, 2009
Manchester International Festival is the world’s first festival of original, new work and special events. Expect a wide range of events including music, visual arts, theatre, dance, food and family events, all presented by world-class artists. While most events require tickets, there are also a host of free events. Some require advance booking so make sure you get your tickets today.
Find more information about expat life in UK on Easy Expat.
Oil Wrestling Festival, Edirne, Turkey
29th June– 5th July, 2009
Oil wrestling is one of Turkey’s most popular sports. As the name suggests, wrestlers soaked in oil fight each other. Tournaments take place across the country, but the most famous one is held in Edirne. The events are accompanied by much fanfare and entertainment including belly dancing, traditional music and an endless supply of roast lamb.
Find more information about expat life in Turkey on Easy Expat.
Beer Festivals, around the world
Throughout July
Beer lovers rejoice! June is beer month with festivals dedicated to that special ale cropping up all over the world. From Montreal to Jacksonville, Leipzig to Tokyo, head for the one that’s closest to you. Click here for the beer festival calendar for July 2009.
Mozart Festival, Warsaw, Poland
26th June – 25th July, 2009
The Mozart Festival draws audiences from across the world. Mozart's complete stage output is performed for each edition of the festival, together with a selection of his chamber, symphonic, and vocal-instrumental works. His best-loved operas, including 'Don Giovanni', 'Le Nozze di Figaro' and 'Cosi Fan Tutte' are the subject of multiple performances in this festival. The Warsaw Chamber Opera is the only company in the world to have Mozart's entire operatic output in its permanent repertoire and this is the world's largest event of its kind. A must see for Mozart fans!
Find more information about expat life in Warsaw on Easy Expat.
Fuji Rock Fest, Japan
24th – 26th July, 2009
This is an outdoor music festival which takes place in the Naeba Ski resort. Set in the mountains in the most picturesque surroundings for a music festival in Japan, it is also often hyped as the cleanest rock festival. You can enjoy the view from the longest gondola (The Dragondola) lift in the world. The festival is quite popular and draws crowds of more then 100,000 for its 200 music acts.
Find more information about expat life in Japan on Easy Expat.
Independence Day Celebrations, across USA
4th July, 2009
A national holiday across the United States, Independence Day is celebrated with much gusto and patriotism. This is the day America got its freedom from Britain in 1774. Barbecues, picnics, and family gatherings are the order of the day. Parades are organized in most cities and there’s much flag swaying and partying.
Find more information about expat life in the US on Easy Expat with the cities of New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Chicago and Miami.
Hungry Ghost Festival, China
July – August
This is the Chinese version of Halloween. It is believed that during this month, the gates of hell are opened to free the hungry ghosts who then wander to seek food on Earth. The dead are thought to visit their living relatives throughout the 7th month, and prayers and incense are offered to placate them. The dead also are gifted with fake paper money and other presents, like cars and houses, also made of paper and burned in bonfires. The festival is shrouded in superstitions and night time rituals and one to join if you’d like to catch up on some spooky traditions.
Find more information about expat life in China on Easy Expat.
Darwin-Beer-Can Regatta, Australia
19th July, 2009
This is one crazy festival and an excellent use of all those empty beer cans. Mindil Beach in Darwin is the scene of the yearly Beer Can Regatta, where participants make boats in all shapes and sizes from beer cans and then proceed to hold mock battles in the shallow sea there. The homemade fleet includes all kinds of canoes, speedboats, and giant Viking warships with fire hoses and top secret weaponry.
Find more information about expat life in Australia on Easy Expat.
Sidd Lobo
Freelance writer based out of Munich
The Top 4 Reasons to Travel During a Recession
easyexpat
16 June, 2009 15:34
The recession has brought about a lot of chaos in the financial and economic world, but travel is one of the few sectors that can increase revenue worldwide. So many countries have been hit hard by recession and inflation rates that they are on a huge budget, dropping prices everywhere; Iceland has decent hotels running from $60 a night. This is extremely low considering previous rates for similar hotels in Europe. Rates all over the world have dropped, making this an ideal time to travel the world; additionally, many of us have been laid off recently, so why not make a dent in the economy and travel while you’re at it.
Exchange Rate
The exchange rate between the U.S. dollar and many countries that have been hit hard in the economic downturn has become much different than it once was. Now many Americans can afford to stay in luxury hotels and travel to countries they could not previously afford to vacation in. While the exchange rate is not wonderful in all countries, it is still substantially lower in popular destinations, such as England and Australia (relatively speaking).
Cheap Flights
Competition between rival airlines has caused it to become a customer’s market, with fares dropping daily in order to compete effectively in the market for tickets. The price of oil is finally beginning to get back on track, but it is still relatively low when compared to previous rates; this results in lower fares all across the spectrum. Because of these low rates, airlines are also inclined to offer discounted packages, even teaming with hotels to ensure they attract customers. Additionally, the offers that many credit card companies offer with regards to flight miles are still usable, although you need to use them soon to ensure you will get the amount you were promised; many credit card companies are changing these policies as an effect of their dwindling corporations.
Money in the Economy
The only way to get the economy back to normal is to get it running again; consumerism is the only possible way to help the economy out. By travelling around the world, we will assist the global economy back onto its feet, which will only further result in good financial news for the United States. Economists around the world have maintained that this is the only way to ease ourselves out of a recession; rather than sit at home and conserve our money, we need to put money back into the economy to see improved results.
Everyone Wants your Business
The recession has caused many hotels and services to compete for your business, resulting in better service for you as the customer overall. Additionally, with the job market being the way it is, employees will furthermore be in danger of losing their jobs if they do not treat you with the best service possible; even if they do offer you poor service, they are easily replaceable with the amount of people looking for jobs.
This post was contributed by Ashley Brooks, who writes about the degrees online. She welcomes your feedback at AshleyBrooks234 at gmail.com
Protect your family finances
easyexpat
11 June, 2009 11:22
Article sponsored by William Russell
By Nigel Harris, Chief Executive Asia Pacific, William Russell Limited
No one likes to think about accidents and emergencies, but when you are living overseas with your family it is absolutely essential to have secure insurance arrangements in place to protect yourself, your partner and children if something untoward happens. Nigel Harris, Chief Executive Asia Pacific at international expatriate insurance specialist, William Russell, looks at the products and services that are available to protect your family when the unexpected strikes.
Malaysia is an exciting place to live, offering expatriates an excellent lifestyle, vibrant culture and welcoming home away from home. Like any country however its social services are geared to the needs of the local population and as a result the welfare safety-net may provide expat families with a different level of protection against life’s emergencies than they would expect in their home country.
It may be that you are living in the centre of KL, or in more remote parts of the country; perhaps your children are at school in Malaysia while your work takes you further afield. Whatever your personal circumstances, it’s essential to make sure that you have the right insurance products in place to provide you with the level of protection you need to match your lifestyle. These fall into three main areas, international private medical insurance to give you and your family fast access to the highest levels of medical treatment wherever you are in the region, income protection to replace your salary if you find yourself unable to work for whatever reason and life insurance to protect your family’s finances if the unthinkable happens and you’re no longer there to provide for them.
There’s little doubt that Malaysia's medical services are among the best in the region, however if you need medical treatment you’ll need to visit one of the many private hospitals or clinics and pay for your treatment. Private medical insurance (PMI) is designed to cover these costs – but take care as PMI comes in many guises and as an expat you need to make sure that the policy you buy is geared to the international lifestyle. International PMI, from specialist providers like William Russell is designed to provide access to emergency medical treatment around the world. We offer the advantage that as a family-owned business we understand the particular needs of expatriate families with children overseas and as our Asia Pacific office is based in Kuala Lumpur you know we’ll be there when you need us.
Make sure when you are buying your International PMI policy that it covers all the countries you are likely to visit on work. Yes KL is a long way from New York – but if you are likely to be visiting the States for example make sure that your policy provides full cover. On the other hand if you are never going to visit an expensive healthcare location such as the USA, buy a policy without this cover as it will save you a great deal on premiums.
Also make sure you will benefit from full emergency medical evacuation cover, local 24/7 emergency assistance and a high level of financial protection. Our Global Health Elite Platinum plan for example provides the widest possible cover with high value benefit for maternity care, routine and complex dental treatment, regular preventative health screening and an exceptionally high amount of cover for the treatment of chronic conditions. Also take care to ensure that your whole family is covered, you’ll need cover for your children if there is an accident on the sports field at school and your partner at home, just as much as you will for yourself. Our policies are geared to families with discounts of up to 50 per cent when you insure more than one child. What’s more, our Global Health plans allow you to add low cost travel insurance and accident cover to provide complete protection.
Medical emergencies are not the only risks faced by expats. If you suffer an illness or accident that leaves you unable to work, you’ll need an income while you recuperate. Income protection policies are insurance plans designed to provide you with a replacement income while you are unable to work. Again it is prudent to buy a plan designed specifically for expats as you are likely to find restrictions in domestic policies which make them unsuitable for the international lifestyle. At William Russell our Global Income Protection plan is designed to replace up to 75 per cent of your salary and payments will be paid continuously until you are either fit to return to work – or right up to retirement age if necessary.
Finally, don’t overlook life insurance. It’s an unpleasant thought, but your family will need protection to provide a reliable income to replace your earnings if you die before you reach retirement age. Fortunately life insurance is generally low cost and you can easily buy cover providing up to 20 times your annual salary for a low monthly premium. Remember however that as an expat many domestic life insurance plans will be unsuitable for your lifestyle. Instead look for an international plan designed with the expat in mind. At William Russell our Global Life plan provides cover for expatriates of all nationalities throughout the world – providing complete peace of mind.
Living and working in Malaysia offers the expat an enviable way of life and excellent standards of living. By making sure that you have the right insurance plans in place to protect your family’s finances you can make sure that you can enjoy the lifestyle to the full.
Nigel Harris,
Chief Executive Asia Pacific, William Russell
telephone: +852 3690 2143
email: nigel.harris@william-russell.com
Shopping for Divorces
easyexpat
08 June, 2009 11:11
An expatriate often has a choice of where to divorce. You need to make the right choice early, because often it is irreversible – and the jurisdiction that governs your divorce can have significant impacts on your fortunes.
Divorce is not as simple as just ending the marriage. There are generally two main areas of contention in divorces, one relating to sorting out financial arrangements between the couple, the other relating to arrangements for any children of the marriage. In fact many countries require that you also sort out arrangements for children before the divorce is granted.
Below are some examples which show the kind of considerations that you need to take into account when weighing up which jurisdiction is best for your circumstances, and which illustrate why shopping around for the most favourable jurisdiction is so important.
Approach to Divorce Proceedings: key differences across the jurisdictions
-
Norway – compulsory pre-mediation if children.
- Italy – slow.
- England – relatively fast, and no consent needed from the other party usually.
- Malta – no divorce possible (what most people do not realise is that the EU cannot force its members states to legislate on family law issues, which some commentators say makes a mockery of the Brussels II initiative aimed at harmonising the laws of member states).
- Croatia – children issues must be resolved before divorce can be granted.
- Nevada, USA – fast, but decree may not be recognised outside the USA.
Usually you can take divorce proceedings in a country if you are resident there. However, for example, if you live in a country such as one of the Gulf states, where Sharia law applies to family and matrimonial matters, unless you are a Muslim you will not have access to the Sharia courts.
You may be able to take divorce proceedings in another country if you are a national of that country, or you have some connection with it.
Finances
In terms of finances there can be very different outcomes.
For example :
- France – limited spouse maintenance.
- Australia and many US states - binding prenuptial agreements.
- Sharia law – each party retains their own property.
- England – discretion on a case by case basis.
- Scotland – inheritances protected.
- Denmark – maintenance generally limited to duration of marriage.
Examples
1. Mr and Mrs X married in Australia. The prenuptial agreement said that whatever property each of them had at the time of marriage, they would keep absolutely, and equally share in the accrued property. Mr X owned a valuable house which he still has. They subsequently moved to England where Mr X started a business. However it went very badly. Mrs X was successful in her own business but by the time of separation they had virtually no joint assets because her earnings had all gone to stave off her husband’s bankruptcy. Her husband had now recently started a new business which was proving highly successful, providing advice and services to business people struggling with recession. Mrs X however had become pregnant and had sold her business.
If the couple divorce in Australia, the prenuptial agreement will apply and Mr X will retain the only asset of the marriage, the house there.
If the couple divorce in England, the court will consider whether it is fair for Mr X to keep the entire property, and possibly ignore the prenuptial agreement.
Another example
2. Mr and Mrs Y built a second home in Croatia prior to Mr Y’s retirement. When he retired they sold the house in England and moved to Croatia. They live on Mr Y’s pension. Mrs Y commences divorce proceedings in Croatia. On that basis she will receive one-half of the property there, and minimal maintenance.
If she had commenced divorce proceedings in England she would have received half the property in Croatia and half of Mr Y’s ongoing pension.
Summary
Generally speaking, for EU domiciled couples, jurisdiction is decided according to who is first to file; for non-EU-domiciled couples the old fashioned rules of forum apply, which take all sorts of additional aspects into account, not just the ‘first in time’ rule.
It is critical to obtain expert advice before any taking any steps, particularly as the decision about the jurisdiction that is to govern your case is irreversible once made and yet has such big impacts on your fortunes on divorce.
By Henry Brookman, Partner and Founder of Brookman Solicitors
Brookman is a highly specialist boutique firm of international family lawyers. The firm conducts the full range of family law services, but has a particular reputation in the field of complex, cross-border issues involving divorce, ancillary relief and children-related matters. For further information visit the website www.brookman.co.uk or call +44 (0)20 7430 8470.
Festivals around the world this June
siddlobo
29 May, 2009 16:26
The sun's shining, the parties are getting longer, the skirts are getting shorter and the fun is tuned up all the way. Here are some popular festivals from around the world this June.
Glastonbury Festival, UK
24th – 28th June
Glastonbury Festival is the largest greenfield music and performing arts festival in the world. This tented city offers entertainment to match everyone’s taste. From frenzied rock to more laid back jazz, whatever your choice of music, you can be sure there’s a tune that’ll be music to your ears.
June Bonfire Festival, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
13th – 29th June
This is a New World twist on an old European tradition. The feasts of St. Anthony (13th June), St. John (24th June) and St. Peter (29th June) are celebrated with great pomp and tradition in the city. In streets, squares and public places, stalls are set out to resemble village market places and are decorated with streamers and lanterns. Fires are kindled in open spaces, mock country weddings are performed where couples follow the old tradition of leaping over flames. Eating, dancing, music, fireworks and festivities set against the backdrop of bonfires is the order of the day.
Beer Festivals, around the world
Throughout June
Beer lovers rejoice! June is beer month with festivals dedicated to that special ale cropping up all over the world. From Montreal to Jacksonville, Leipzig to Tokyo, head for the one that’s closest to you. Click here for the beer festival calendar for June 2009.
Download Festival, UK
22nd June
This is not for Kenny G fans. With a lineup including, Whitesnake, Def Leppard and Faith No More, this is one of UK’s loudest festivals. One to join if you’re a rock or metal fan.
Chicago Blues Festival, Chicago, USA
12th – 14th June
This is for those who prefer their music softer. The Chicago Blues Festival is the largest free blues festival in the world and remains the largest of Chicago's Music Festivals. During three days on six stages, more than 640,000 blues fans prove that Chicago is the "Blues Capital of the World." Past performers include Bonnie Raitt, Ray Charles, B.B. King, Bo Diddley, Buddy Guy and Koko Taylor.
World Rose Festival, Vancouver, Canada
19th -21st June
If you’re a rose lover, this is the place to be. As the name suggests, this is the ultimate experience for those interested in discovering more about one of the most popular flowers in the world. With world class rose shows, rose gardens, rose workshops, rose markets, rose artwork, rose culinary treats, this is your chance to get rosy.
Midsummer Festivals, around the world
Around 24th June
Midsummer festivals are popular across Europe and are celebrated on or around the summer solstice. They are particularly important in Northern Europe - Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway and Sweden - but are found also in Ireland, parts of Britain, France, Italy, Malta, Portugal, Spain, the Ukraine, other parts of Europe, and elsewhere - such as Canada, the United States, Puerto Rico, and also in the Southern Hemisphere (Brazil), where this imported European celebration would be more appropriately called Midwinter. Celebrations include bonfires, dancing, feasting, maypoles, fireworks and parades depending on where you are.
Top 5 adventure activities in and around Dubai
siddlobo
25 May, 2009 18:54
Dubai has transformed itself from a barely inhabited desert to a top tourist destination. While the sun and the sea attract well heeled travelers looking for a chance to grill on the beach, the city has a number of exciting outdoor activities that are quite unique to the region. From camel riding to hot air ballooning, sand skiing to falconry, here are some thrilling options for the more actively inclined.
Desert Safari
This is an action packed adventure that includes dune bashing, camel riding, sand skiing and a number of other activities in one evening. As the name suggests, dune bashing is just that. Expect an adrenaline packed ride where your 4x4 crashes through dunes and kicks up a storm of sand around you. If you’re attempting your first camel ride, here’s a tip that’ll come in handy. Fight tooth and nail for the seat at the back. It’s far more comfortable and there’s a much lesser chance of falling off from here. Sand skiing is a new rage in Dubai. You basically get to the top of a dune and ‘ski’ down the dune. If you love skiing the traditional way, i.e. on snow, you’ll find this a pretty unique way of enjoying your favourite sport all year round. http://www.desertsafaridubai.com
Hot Air Balloon Rides
This is the best way to enjoy some of the most breathtaking views the desert has to offer. Like an early morning sunrise breaking out on the horizon, a stray camel walking along the desert or a gazelle running off into the distance. This is ideal for those who'd like to enjoy the majestic beauty of the desert. Relax and watch the endless dunes pass by beneath you as life takes on a surreally peaceful tone. Find out more with the ballooning specialists in Dubai at http://www.ballooning.ae
Falconry
Here’s another uniquely Arab outdoor experience. Falconry has long been a part of the local Arab culture. At the Al Sahra Desert Resort, you can experience one of the world’s most ancient sports from the comfort of a shaded camp. If you’d like to be more hands on, you can also get involved with training these amazing birds. http://www.shaheenxtreme.com/index.html
Quad biking
If your idea of fun is driving through the constantly changing dunes, quad biking is for you. Outdoor adventure enthusiasts will enjoy revving up quad bikes and blazing trails through the desert. The quad bikes are fully automatic and easy to ride. Minimum age is 15 years. Find out more at http://www.arabiahorizons.com/Quad-Bike-Safari
Wadi bashing
This is for the truly adventurous. Wadis are dry river beds that follow the course of seasonal streams in rocky valleys. As these riverbeds weren’t made for driving, wadi bashing can be quite a back jolting ride. Not for the faint hearted.
http://www.middleeasthub.com/dubai/things-to-do/wadi-bashing.html
Sidd Lobo
Freelance copywriter based out of Munich
Fast facts on Swine Flu (type A H1N1 virus)
siddlobo
16 May, 2009 12:20
Read the news and chances are that you’ll find yourself staring at the photo of a pig or a swine flu victim. At the time this article is being written, 33 countries have reported more than 6,600 cases of swine flu worldwide, with less than 70 deaths in total. The figures are based on tallies provided by national governments and WHO. According to the global body's pandemic alert level, the world is at phase 5 — out of a possible 6 — meaning that a global outbreak is "imminent." Whether or not this happens, it’s good to brief ourselves on some of the basic facts about this pandemic. Here are some frequently asked questions as answered by CDC, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.
What is swine flu?
Swine flu (swine influenza) is a respiratory disease of pigs caused by type A influenza virus that regularly causes outbreaks of influenza in pigs. Swine flu viruses cause high levels of illness and low death rates in pigs. Swine influenza viruses may circulate among swine throughout the year, but most outbreaks occur during the late fall and winter months similar to outbreaks in humans. The classical swine flu virus (an influenza type A H1N1 virus) was first isolated from a pig in 1930.
How many swine flu viruses are there?
Like all influenza viruses, swine flu viruses change constantly. At this time, there are four main influenza type A virus subtypes that have been isolated in pigs: H1N1, H1N2, H3N2, and H3N1. However, most of the recently isolated influenza viruses from pigs have been H1N1 viruses.
How does swine flu spread?
Influenza viruses can be directly transmitted from pigs to people and from people to pigs. Human infection with flu viruses from pigs are most likely to occur when people are in close proximity to infected pigs, such as in pig barns and livestock exhibits housing pigs at fairs. Human-to-human transmission of swine flu can also occur. This is thought to occur in the same way as seasonal flu occurs in people, which is mainly person-to-person transmission through coughing or sneezing of people infected with the influenza virus. People may become infected by touching something with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.
What are the symptoms of swine flu in humans?
The symptoms of swine flu in people are expected to be similar to the symptoms of regular human seasonal influenza and include fever, lethargy, lack of appetite and coughing. Some people with swine flu also have reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Can people catch swine flu from eating pork?
No. Swine influenza viruses are not transmitted by food. You can not get swine influenza from eating pork or pork products. Eating properly handled and cooked pork and pork products is safe. Cooking pork to an internal temperature of 160°F kills the swine flu virus as it does other bacteria and viruses.
How can human infections with swine flu be diagnosed?
To diagnose swine influenza A infection, a respiratory specimen would generally need to be collected within the first 4 to 5 days of illness (when an infected person is most likely to be shedding virus). However, some persons, especially children, may shed virus for 7 days or longer. Identification as a swine flu influenza A virus requires sending the specimen to CDC for laboratory testing.
What medications are available to treat humans with the infection?
There are four different antiviral drugs that are licensed for use in the US for the treatment of influenza: amantadine, rimantadine, oseltamivir and zanamivir. While most swine influenza viruses have been susceptible to all four drugs, the most recent H1N1 influenza viruses isolated from humans are resistant to amantadine and rimantadine.
What can you do to prevent the spread of swine flu?
Here are some simple steps to bear in mind. Firstly, avoid contact with ill people. If you sneeze, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue. Throw the tissue away into a trash can. After you sneeze, make sure you wash your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand gel.
To round it all up, we don’t know if swine flu is ever going to become a global pandemic on the scale of SARS. What we do know is that we can take some common sense steps to protect ourselves. Like avoiding unnecessary travel to swine flu hotspots, avoiding farms and livestock fairs and cooking pork till it’s well done. While there are 70 reported deaths from swine flu, remember that there are 300,000 deaths in the world each year resulting from common influenza. The trick is to carry on with life, just a little more carefully.
For more detailed information on swine flu, click here.
Sidd Lobo
Freelance copywriter based out of Munich
Dubai’s real estate icons
siddlobo
12 May, 2009 10:27
Iconic, ostentatious, innovative, outrageous… love it or hate it, Dubai’s real estate developments have put the city on the world map. It’s estimated that 25% of the world’s cranes can be found in Dubai. A mere 20 years ago, this was a little known desert town - its centre marked by four buildings. Now, this buzzing city has been dubbed by a number of lofty nicknames- ‘Vegas on the Gulf’, ‘City of Gold’, ‘The Desert Miracle’ to name a few. While the economic downturn has caused a slowdown in its building frenzy, parts of the city still look like a massive construction site. This article takes a look at some of the most famous real estate developments in Dubai.
Burj Al Arab
This iconic building, designed to resemble a billowing sail, dominates the Dubai skyline. At 321 metres (1,050 ft), it is the second tallest building in the world used exclusively as a hotel. The Burj Al Arab stands on an artificial island and is connected to the mainland by a private curving bridge. At night, this impressive structure is illuminated by beautifully choreographed lighting.
Burj Dubai
At 818 metres, this is the tallest man-made structure ever built, despite being incomplete. Construction is expected to be completed by September 2009. The estimated building cost is US$1 billion. Here are some more interesting facts. The Tower’s external surface is the size of 17 football fields, the concrete used is the weight of 100,000 elephants and the water system will supply about 250,000 gallons of water per day. http://www.burjdubai.com
The Palm Islands
The Palm Islands are designed to be the world’s largest man- made islands. In order to increase the number of beachfront properties, the islands were designed in the shape of a palm tree instead of a traditional circle. The three Palm projects, the Palm Jumeirah, the Palm Jebel Ali and the Palm Deira are set to become one of the world’s most iconic housing and tourism projects. http://www.thepalm.ae
The World
Where in the world will you find a real estate project in the shape of the world? Located four kilometres off the coast of Dubai, The World comprises of 300 man-made islands clustered into the shape of the world map. From private islands to commercial properties, this project is truly out of this world. http://www.theworld.ae
Atlantis
A super luxurious hotel set on the Palm Jumeirah, it also boasts of the world’s largest open air marine habitat with over 65000 marine species, an exciting water park, a dolphinarium (the dolphins were brought in from Australia along with their trainers), private beaches, spas and world class restaurants. http://www.atlantisthepalm.com/theresort.aspx
Dubailand
At 186 million square metres, which is twice the size of Disneyworld in Florida, Dubailand is set to be one of the largest developments in the region. The project once completed is expected to have 50 themed leisure attractions and hotels. Themes include Dubai Sports City, Motor City, Aqua Dunia, Golf City and lots, lots more. http://dubailand.ae
Find more information about expat life in Dubai on Easy Expat.
Sidd Lobo
Freelance copywriter based out of Munich
How to Arrange Your Own Study Abroad Program (5/5)
audrey
06 May, 2009 18:14
This is the last article of a series of 5, explaining how to arrange your own study abroad program.
First article: Decide Where to Go
Second article: Determine When to Go
Third article: Language Problems and Programs
Fourth article: How to Pay for It
Practical Matters
After you've made the difficult decisions concerning where to
conduct your study abroad program, when you want to go and have
arranged to pay for it, it's time to get down to nuts and bolts of
making the final arrangements to go. It's a good idea to keep a
checklist and mark each task when it is completed.
If the program you have chosen provides accommodations for its
students, either on campus or in the area, it's wise to take advantage
of it. The accommodations will almost always be safe, clean and
accessible to campus or to transportation, even if they are not always
luxurious. If you are very familiar with the area (through prior visits
or friends and family in the region), you may be able to obtain cheaper
accommodations on your own, but again, allow sufficient lead time. If
the program does not provide accommodations and you don't have insider
information, ask about recommendations from the program staff or
administrators. This is one area where it is unwise to rely on Internet
searches alone. Never take a room or a flat sight unseen unless it is
issued or recommended by someone you know or your study abroad
program. If all else fails, make arrangements to arrive early and stay
at a hostel while you search for accommodations.
Shipping a car overseas is almost never advisable unless you are
relocating permanently, and sometimes not even then. The costs are
prohibitive, and in some instances, your vehicle may not be allowed in
the host country. Car rentals may also be very expensive as well, with
restrictions on who is eligible to rent. An International Driving Permit
is inexpensive and may make it easier to obtain a rental car overseas.
It also serves as a good form of identification to carry with you
instead of your passport, which should be kept in a safe place while
you are abroad.
In many urban areas especially, public transit is a safe,
inexpensive form of transportation, although possibly confusing to a
newcomer. In other areas, this is very risky, especially for women
travelling alone. This is a subject where asking the staff of your
institution (or friends in the area) for advice is a very good idea. .
Many public transit systems have their own websites which are at least
partially translated into English. Check them out, and obtain schedules
and maps ahead of time and study the routes you are most likely to take
during your study abroad program.
You should also ask the staff of your institution about practical
matters such as shopping, banking, and currency exchange. One easy way
to obtain local currency is through an ATM (automated teller machine),
even though there are usually fees involved. Nonetheless, the
currency exchange rates are usually good, and many bank debit cards, as
well as Visa or MasterCard debit cards, can be used worldwide. Check
with your home bank about the procedure involved before you leave. In
addition, you should study the official government and tourist websites
for the country, city or local region as well as the website for your
study abroad institution for transportation information, local laws and
customs, as well as other pertinent information. The more familiar you
are before you arrive, the better.
Be sure your passport is up to date and valid, and allow plenty of
time to obtain a visa and/or residence permit if you need one or both.
Some countries require that you have at least six months validity on
your passport after the end date of your planned stay. Whether you need
a visa will depend on your home country and/or how long you plan to
remain in your host country. Check with your institution and with the
embassy of the country you are visiting. If you do need a visa, ask
your institution (or volunteer organization) to provide you with a
letter of introduction to present along with your visa application.
This will almost always be provided without question, although you may
need to pay all applicable fees beforehand.
If you are travelling to or from the developing world, you may need
immunizations. Again, check with the official government information or
tourist website for your host country. It's also a good idea to check
out the health care facilities for your host country, especially if you
have health issues. You should also check whether your present
insurance coverage will be valid in your host country. It not, you
should purchase travel insurance, which may be required by the host
institution or the country you choose to visit, and is highly advisable
to have in any event.
You should also obtain an international calling card as well as an
inexpensive GSM phone with a prepaid SIM card for the country or
countries you are visiting. International roaming charges can be
outrageously expensive. Telestial
offers a variety of products and offers excellent service. In the
scramble to take care of all these details, be sure you don't forget to
put a temporary hold on your mail, newspaper and other deliveries,
especially if you will be overseas for more than two weeks. Having
someone look in on your house or flat is a good idea as well. If you
have food in your refrigerator, you should dispose of it or give it to
a friend. If you have pets, you should arrange for their care.
The main point (which cannot be stressed enough), is to allow
sufficient lead time to make all the necessary arrangements to ensure
that your study abroad program is a success. Although the process can
be somewhat complex, it is possible for nearly anyone to be able to
study abroad if the desire is strong enough, and the rewards are
definitely worth it. Once all the pieces are in place, all that's left
is to pack up and go!
Useful Links
The links below are for embassy offices worldwide, as well as
further information on international driving permits, travel insurance,
mobile phones and related resources.
Embassy Listings (For Visa and Residence Permit Information)
International Driving Permits
Other Practical Information
Audrey Henderson
Freelance writer based in Chicago
How to Arrange Your Own Study Abroad Program (4/5)
audrey
29 April, 2009 18:02
This is the fourth article of a series of 5, explaining how to arrange your own study abroad program.
First article: Decide Where to Go
Second article: Determine When to Go
Third article: Language Problems and Programs
How to Pay for It
The main obstacle to study abroad for many people is the cost.
However, there are ways of getting around this. For instance, if you
are an American college or graduate student and receive financial aid,
you can almost always apply your financial aid from your present
institution to the study abroad program you choose. European students
should investigate the Erasmus
program. In any case, you will need to contact the financial aid office
at your school and make the necessary arrangements. This may require a
few extra steps and a somewhat longer period of time, so don't put this
task off until the last minute.
It is less likely that you will be able to arrange financial aid
directly with the host institution, but not impossible. Some programs
do offer scholarships; however, these scholarships are almost always
very competitive. The best advice is to prepare as good an application
as possible, but don't count on scholarships from the host institution
for all or even most of your funding. Volunteer programs may provide a
small stipend or free room and board in exchange for your
participation. If you are studying at the graduate school level, you
might also consider grants or fellowships such as the Fulbright,
although the competition for these grants is also very competitive. In
addition, deadlines for grants and scholarships often fall a year in
advance, and two years in advance is not out of the question.
Especially for American professionals, if your study abroad program
relates to your job, you should inquire about company reimbursement.
You may also qualify for a tax deduction. If you are enrolled for
college credit during your study abroad program, you may qualify for
deferment on your student loans. Participants in volunteer programs
such as the Peace Corps, or another qualified nonprofit organization,
may be able to obtain a deferment, partial loan cancellation, or both.
This is especially true for American students with federally guaranteed
loans. Check with your school or loan institution for details. In any
event, it is essential to keep good records of your expenses and retain
all your receipts.
It may also be possible to work at least part time during your study
abroad program. If you are a young adult (generally aged 18 to 30,
although the exact limits vary by country), you may qualify for a
"holiday visa" which would permit you to work. Young adults who are
good with children can also work as au pairs. If you have good English
skills , and particularly if you have ESL (English as a Second
Language) teaching certification, your skills will be in demand
worldwide. If you are a professional or entrepreneur, you may qualify
for a "business visa" which allows you to conduct some work while you
pursue your study abroad program. Inquire with your host institution,
or check the official website of the country you are visiting. .
In some instances, you may not need a work visa at all. For
instance, if you are a freelancer who conducts much (or all) of your
work through the Internet, you will almost certainly be able to
generate income wherever you go, without restriction. All you need is
your computer and reliable Internet access, and perhaps a cell phone,
although many freelancers use services such as Skype and instant message services to communicate with their clients in real time.
If none of these situations applies to your case, any you would like to work during your study abroad program, The Big Guide to Living and Working and Overseas and CIEE (Council for International Educational Exchange)
are excellent sources for information. If all else fails, for shorter
programs, it may be feasible to set aside savings to pay expenses out
of pocket. In any event, you may have to demonstrate that you have
sufficient funds (or other means to support yourself) to cover your
expenses.
The links below are for scholarships and other aid available for study
abroad programs. More information can be found on the Internet.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
GoAbroad.com Scholarship Links
Study Abroad Financial Aid and Grants
CEA Global Education Solutions
Next Steps
All of the major tasks are done! There are only a few loose ends
left, which will be covered in the next article, which is the last of
the series.
Audrey Henderson
Freelance writer based in Chicago
How to Arrange Your Own Study Abroad Program (3/5)
audrey
22 April, 2009 18:09
This is the third article of a series of 5, explaining how to arrange your own study abroad program.
First article: Decide Where to Go
Second article: Determine When to Go
Language Problems and Programs
Even if you are attending a study abroad program conducted in your
native language or in a language you speak fluently, you will
undoubtedly have to navigate your way around unfamiliar surroundings,
if only to get back and forth to class. Also, unless you are fluent in
the language of your host country (which may or may not be the same
language as your program), even familiar tasks such as mailing a letter
can become challenging. This is especially true if you stay for a
longer period of time and live "off campus."
Most study abroad programs will have multilingual staff and
instructors. Don't be afraid to ask them how to negotiate such
practicalities as train schedules, mobile phone refill cards and
grocery shopping, either before you leave or on site. Once you arrive,
depending on where you travel, it may even be safe to obtain
assistance, especially directions, from people on the street, although
it is always wise to keep your wits about you whenever you are in
unfamiliar territory. If you speak English, again, you will find
yourself at a definite advantage. Many people worldwide speak at least
some English.
While it can be tempting to associate only with other people from
your own country while traveling abroad, you will lose much of the
advantage of being abroad if you do so. It's really not necessary to do
this if you are willing to be flexible and perhaps learn a few words of
the language of your host country, or at least pick up some of the
customs.
If you have selected a language immersion program for your study
abroad program, your language skills will really be put to the test. If
you have followed the advice given earlier and were honest about your
language abilities, you will be glad. If not, you may find yourself
disoriented. In either case, try to speak the language of your program
as much as possible, and especially with locals. In most instances,
people will be pleased by your attempts to speak their language and
will be patient with your mistakes.
Speaking the language with locals will also help you pick up common
idioms which you might not otherwise learn. But be careful about which
idioms you use. If you're not sure about the exact meaning of a
particular phrase, err on the side of caution. Otherwise, you might say
something very crude by mistake, which can be quite embarrassing at the
very least.
If you are pursuing a language immersion program, you will most
likely also have language classes in grammar and conversation, or
perhaps literature as well. This is a good idea, because you will be
less likely to pick up bad speech patterns (which native speakers
sometimes have) if you have language classes than you would be with an
immersion program without classes. If your program does not have
language classes, for instance, some volunteer programs or internships,
try to set aside time for grammar study on your own.
The following list includes language programs in a number of
commonly-studied languages. Many more programs can be found with an
Internet search.
Language Study Abroad Programs
Chinese
English
French
German
Japanese
Spanish
Next Steps
The next step is to work out your finances so that you can pay for
your study abroad program. That subject will be covered in the next
article.
Audrey Henderson
Freelance writer based in Chicago
HSBC: Protecting your wealth in turbulent times
easyexpat
21 April, 2009 22:36
Article sponsored by HSBC
A seminar for foreign nationals in the UK
Investment strategies for volatile times
There are few certainties wherever you look in today's volatile global economy, but HSBC believe that this is the time when you need to think positively about the future.
HSBC invite you to a seminar on "Protecting your wealth in turbulent times".
They'll discuss the nature of the current markets and how you can best position your portfolio for long-term results.This seminar is for foreign nationals in the UK, and will cover:
- Globalmarket overview
- Wealthmanagement for foreign nationals living in the UK
- Benefits of international life insurance protection
HSBC's InternationalWealth Managers will be on hand to offer independent financial planning solutions to help you achieve your financial goals and aspirations. Minimum investment criteria of GBP50,000.
Invest a little of your time in the seminar:
- Date: Thursday 30 April 2009
- Time: Registration 6 pm, seminar 6.15 pm– 8 pm
- Location: The Grand Room, 78 St James’s Street, London SW1A 1JB
to reserve your seat:
This seminar is part of a series they have put together to help you understand financial planning. To find out more about these seminars, please:
