Pre-nuptial agreements: of any use in England?
easyexpat
20 October, 2009 15:52
The Court of Appeal in England has recently re-made the law concerning the recognition of pre-nuptial agreements in England. So, what does this mean for you as an expatriate who may or may not have a prenuptial agreement in place with your spouse?
In July 2009 one of Germany’s richest women, Katrin Radmacher was awarded victory in her appeal to have her pre-nuptial agreement recognised in the English courts. Her former husband, Nicolas Grantatino had signed a pre-nuptial not to make any claims on her fortune if they split up, however he was awarded £5.85 million for his own use by a High Court Judge in 2008. The Court of Appeal overturned that decision.
To understand the present situation, we need to look at some of the history. The English courts have always maintained the rule that in matrimonial cases people cannot overrule the jurisdiction of the Court by contract. This was taken so far as to say that any agreement that tried to tell the Courts what decision they should reach was contrary to public policy and void. It remains the law that parties cannot eject the jurisdiction of the Court, but more modern case law started to recognise pre-nuptial agreements in some respects.
The Matrimonial Causes Act 1973 sets out a number of factors that a Judge must consider when calculating a financial award following a divorce. The first consideration has to be given to the welfare of any children. The Court must also consider:
- Income, earning capacity and other financial resources;
- Financial needs;
- Standard of living;
- Age;
- Physical or mental disability;
- The contributions each party has made etc.
The Courts also developed a practical working rule when assessing the overall justice and equity of the position, that they should consider ifthe parties had entered into a pre-nuptial agreement, and the outcome that would apply if the agreement was followed. If application of the agreement would plainly be unfair, the Court would disregard it. On the other hand if it appeared to be a fair and open attempt by the parties to avoid all the uncertainties of a discretionary judicial decision then the justice of the situation might well require that the agreement was upheld. It was not therefore binding the hands of the Court, but it was evidence of what the parties themselves thought was appropriate, and should be given very considerable weight.
Most pre-nuptial agreements failed for obvious simple reasons. Very commonly they simply laid out what each party had at the start of the marriage, what they should keep, failing to anticipate the arrival of children, the accrual of assets predominantly in one name rather than the other, etc...
The other great difficulty was working out if the contract had been entered into under fair conditions. If the would be bride, for example had no idea of her fiancée’s property and assets, how could she have a proper appreciation of what the contract meant? Furthermore, there might well be elements of emotional coercion – e.g.. the would be bride might be expecting a child and in no realistic position to negotiate. The essence of negotiation is that you have the option to walk away from the agreement if your terms are not met. However the fact that so many countries recognise them and the rising demand in England that they be recognised led to considerable debate. In 1998 the Law Commission produced a Green Paper recommending that the pre-nuptial contracts become enforceable, but with certain safeguards. It considered that the safeguards which ought to be in place before the contract became enforceable were any one of:
- Where there is a child of the family.
- Where under the general law of contract the agreement was unenforceable.
- Where one or both of the couple did not receive independent legal advice.
- Where the Court considers that enforcement of the agreement would cause significant injustice.
- Where one or both of the couple have failed to give full disclosure.
- Where the agreement was made fewer than 21 days prior to the marriage.
Moving back into the present day, when Ms Radmacher and Mr Granatino separated, Mr Granatino brought an application for a financial settlement in the divorce proceedings. Ms Radmacher’s lawyers responded that there had been a comprehensive pre-nuptial agreement which provided that she kept her own assets intact, he kept his assets intact, and there were no further claims to be made, other than any necessary assessment as to claims concerning the welfare of the children. Mrs Justice Baron was the Judge at first instance.
She came to the conclusion that the pre-nuptial agreement relied upon by Ms Radmacher was defective under English law for the following reasons:
- The husband received no independent legal advice;
- It deprived the husband of all claims even in the situation of want, and that was manifestly unfair;
- There was no disclosure by the wife;
- There were no negotiations;
- Two children had been born during the marriage.
The case was then taken to the Court of Appeal. The judges there disagreed with Mrs Justice Baron and took a different view of how the evidence should have been applied to each of those reasons:
- Lack of independent legal advice: However in this case the husband did not deny that he understood the contract nor suggests that he would not have entered into the contract even if he had received advice against doing so. Lord Justice Thorpe added that the husband was of great ability, and in both the husband’s and wife’s countries of origin a pre-nuptial contract was standard practice.
- Absence of disclosure: What was lacking here was any finding that if there had been accurate mutual disclosure, the husband would not have or might well not have entered into the contract.
- Absence of negotiations: The absence of negotiations only proved that the parties were aware of what the contract entailed.
- The birth of the children: The contract had been well drafted and it quarantined any possible claims in respect of the children themselves. On that basis the Court was able to make a limited award in favour of the husband, by reference to the housing needs he would have as joint parent. Otherwise though, it was to be assumed that the couple expected to start a family after marrying, and the fact that they did so was of no weight.
In principle this should make pre-nuptial agreements much more secure, because each of those matters can be conclusively established in the contract itself. If the contract makes it clear that parties have the opportunity to seek legal advice, if it makes clear that they would enter the contract regardless of the size of the assets that the other had, and if it makes it clear they know what a pre-nuptial contract is intended to do, then that should be a conclusive answer to each of the points. Undoubtedly dissatisfied spouses will try to go behind the wording of the contract to say that, yes, they signed an acknowledgement to that effect, but no, they did not really mean what they signed. It is possible that the background facts might support that, for example if the contract was presented as a “take it or leave it” ultimatum close to the wedding. In most circumstances however the key is careful drafting that should enable the Court of Appeal’s criteria to be satisfied.
It is therefore safe to say that a well drafted pre-nuptial agreement, based on a proper understanding of the parties’ circumstances should hold good in English law.
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.
INTERVIEW: Olivier Giraud - How to become parisian in one hour?
easyexpat
16 October, 2009 16:22
You love Paris but you think that Parisian are rude! You're right, they are! You are too nice and you want to become arrogant and learn the typical Parisian language, facial expression.
Olivier Giraud is a young comedian is playing a One Man Show in Paris, Théâtre de la Main d'Or until December, and answer our questions below.
Can you talk about your activity?
I am a French comedian and I'm doing a stand up comedy show 100% in English "How to become parisian in one hour?"; I'm playing for three months and the show becomes successful.
I'm planning to play this show in America and England in 2010.
What is the profile of your audience?
The audience is mainly foreigners living in Paris (Americans, English , Australians ); they come to understand the Parisian mentality! By the way the Parisians are coming as well to laugh at themselves!
Why did you write and play a show in English in Paris?
I used to live in America and so many people told me that they were in love with Paris, but they were disappointed about the night life because except the expensive show like the Lido, nothing were made for tourists. When I came back to live again in Paris, I thought of creating this show.
Could you tell us a little bit more about the show?
I'm pointing out the cultural differences between tourists and Parisians. How to act excacty as a Parisian in a shop, restaurant, taxi, metro, club etc......... The show is playing every Tuesday and Wednesday, Theatre de la main d'or, 75011 Paris. (metro Ledru Rollin ).
Any other activity?
I'm also doing private shows for companies.
Can you speak about the difference regarding other shows?
I'm offering the only show 100% in English, so I don't have any competitors! It's perfect this way!!!
What advantages/discounts could you offer to our readers?
I'm doing 50% off to EasyExpat's readers, so it's 10€ instead of 20€ (just mention it when buying)
Contact
The show is playing every Tuesday and Wednesday, Theatre de la main d'or, 75011 Paris (metro Ledru Rollin ).
Next year in the US and Canada.
Top MBA programs in Europe
siddlobo
25 August, 2009 17:26
In recent years, there has been an explosion of European MBA
programs. And with it, comes an inevitable explosion of MBA rankings as well.
While different rankings rate schools on different criteria, here are some of
the consistent top performers on most European MBA rankings.
London
Business School, UK
A consistent top performer, LBS offers a 15-21 month MBA
course at its campus in the heart of London.
It boasts of students from 120 countries, networking opportunities with over
28,000 alumni from across the globe and 34 International Exchange schools that
you can partner with during your study here. The next program starts in August
2009 and the course fee is £45,500.
Find more information about expat life in London on Easy Expat.
Insead, France
Another top pick amongst business schools, Insead boasts of
two fully-integrated campuses in France
and Singapore
and students from over 70 different nationalities. Time pressed students will
be happy to know that the MBA course is completed in a compact 10 months. It’s
probably too late to apply for the next program that begins in September 2009
but there’s another one that starts in January 2010. Tuition fees are €51,000.
HEC Paris, France
HEC Paris currently tops the FT list of European Business
Schools. It offers a highly valued 16 months MBA program that is structured
around two, eight month periods. It also offers many intensive, optional
language courses throughout the program. Tuition fees are €42,000 and as with
most other reputed MBA programs, they also offer scholarships and loans.
Find more information about expat life in Paris on Easy Expat.
IMD, Switzerland
Based in Lausanne, Switzerland,
IMD’s ‘Real world. Real learning’ approach has made it a hit amongst European
business schools. The school boasts of an international alumni consisting of
over 98 nationalities and a diverse faculty as well comprising of professors
form over 19 countries. It has been ranked as the number 1 program by Forbes,
FT and the Economist and is definitely one of the more prestigious programs
across the continent. The MBA course is fitted into a 11 months curriculum and
costs CHF 58,000 for tuition fees. The five application deadlines for the
program are February 1, April 1, June 1, August 1 and September 1.
Find more information about expat life in Switzerland on Easy Expat.
IESE
Business School, Spain
The IESE Business
School is also a topper on many
business school rankings. It was ranked number 2 in the world and number 2 in Europe
by Economist in 2008 and FT ranked it number 2 in Europe
and number 5 in the world for 2008. It boats of a multicultural faculty and
student profile. The IESE MBA is a two year program that’s conducted in its
campus in Barcelona and costs
approximately €68,000.
Find more information about expat life in Spain on Easy Expat.
Rotterdam School of Management, Netherlands
RSM offers a 12 month, full time international MBA program
that’s ranked among Europe’s top MBA programs. It boasts
of a multicultural environment with students from over 80 countries. Tuition
fees costs €36,000 and the application deadline for the next program is October 5th, 2009.
Esade Business School
The Esade Business
School offers a flexible MBA
program that allows you to customize your MBA experience. While all candidates
start at the same time, you can choose to complete the program in 12, 15 or 18
months according to your personal situation and preference. The program has
been consistently ranked within the top 10 MBA programs form across Europe
by a number of polls. The full time MBA costs €52,000 and application deadlines
occur throughout the year.
Find more information about expat life in Netherlands on Easy Expat.
ESCP Europe
This highly ranked school offers a truly European experience
with campuses spread across Paris, Berlin,
London, Madrid
and Turin. Candidates are offered
the opportunity to rotate amongst these campuses. The MBA is an 18 month full
time program and applications are accepted from February to December. The next
program starts in January 2010. Tuition fees for the 18 month program are
€42,000.
Find more information about expat life in Madrid or London or Paris on Easy Expat.
For links to recognized European MBA ranking, please click
here.
Please note that the costs mentioned above are for tuition
fees only. Depending on the duration of your course and your lifestyle, you’ll
have to also factor in living expenses, cost of books etc. Also bear in mind
that most of the descriptions above are for full time MBA programs, but most if
not all of the universities also offer part time programs.
Good luck with your
MBA.
Sidd Lobo
Freelance writer based
out of Munich
How to arrange your studies abroad? You will find the answer in our series of 5 articles:
Decide Where to Go
Determine When to Go
Language Problems and Programs
How to Pay for It
Practical Matters
INTERVIEW: Balthazar Tax Advisers, Amsterdam
easyexpat
10 August, 2009 17:59
Balthazar Tax Advisers is a Dutch and international tax consulting firm
specialised in advising expats in the Netherlands.
Company - City - Country :
Balthazar Tax Advisers, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Can you talk about your project?
On our website http://www.netherlandstax.com we have provided a lot of detailed
information on tax in the Netherlands. The aim of our website is to help
expats in the Netherlands know more about the Netherlands tax system and how
they can benefit from it.
What is the status of your project?
As tax laws are changing continuously, our website has to be updated continuously. We also try to add new articles and topics as often as we can.
What is the most interesting Dutch tax rule expats should know about?
That definitely is the 30% rule. On the basis of the 30% rule expats are
eligible to a 30% tax discount.
What do expats not like about tax in the Netherlands?
That probably is the high tax rate of 52% for the income you earn in the
Netherlands in excess of EUR 55,000 (for 2009).
Why can it be helpful for expats to have a tax adviser assist them?
Having a tax adviser assist you in the Netherlands is in most cases a
sensible thing to do. A Dutch tax adviser can reduce your tax payable. He
knows which deductions and credits are available for you. He can assist you
with your tax return and create the optimal tax position.
What is your activity on the Internet?
On our website http://www.netherlandstax.com you will find a lot of information on
Dutch tax. It can serve as your tax guide in the Netherlands. We also write
articles and communicate on blogs to share our knowledge on tax in the
Netherlands to everybody that is interested.
What advantages/discounts could you offer to our readers?
We can assist expats in the Netherlands with their tax matters. Obtaining
the 30% ruling for expats and filing their tax return such that their tax
position is optimal, that is our expertise.
Contact (Email/Tel/website) :
Balthazar Tax Advisers
http://www.netherlandstax.com/
Telephone: +31 10 737 0424
INTERVIEW: Les Euronautes
easyexpat
13 July, 2009 13:38
LesEuronautes.eu is a website aiming at informing young people about opportunities of mobility in Europe and encouraging them to take advantage of it. The project (initiated by the European Union and the French government) is managed by Touteleurope.fr, a company which aims at giving to the citizens as much information as possible about EU, its organisation and actions.
Company - City - Country :
Les Euronautes, Paris, France (H.Q) All over Europe
Can you talk a bit about your company/project?
Touteleurope.fr is a company which aims at giving to the citizens as much information as possible about EU, its organisation and actions. At the end of 2008 we launched a new website, leseuronautes.eu.
LesEuronautes.eu is a website aiming at informing young people about opportunities of mobility in Europe and encouraging them to take advantage of it.
Even if LesEuronautes.eu is a French-speaking website, and therefore more suitable for French-speaking people, it is open for everyone.
Can you talk about the project?
This website provides practical information about the programs set up by the European Union and enabling young students or workers (aged between 15 and 25) to experience mobility in Europe; not only on the programmes (Erasmus, Leonardo, European Volunteering, etc. ), but also the accompanying facilities (scholarships, recognition of diplomas, European CV, etc. ). It offers also advice on how to move, study, and work abroad. It is a fully interactive place, enabling members of the community to exchange on their experiences, ask questions and share tips or good memories of a given city.
What is the status of the project?
Leseuronautes.eu is completely free from any kind of commercials and is of general interest.
In which way your services are different to other companies/projects?
As we do not depend on any kind of advertisement resources, we can focus on the quality of our contents, our goal being to provide youngsters with the best information regarding opportunities of mobility in Europe.
For example, the internships/jobs and accommodation offers published on the website are deemed to be adapted to youngsters with a limited work experience and budget.
What services/information/help do you provide to other companies/individuals?
One of the most interesting features of the website is the “Club” area, which hosts the “Euronautes” community. This interactive part of the site enable the Euronautes to exchange good deals concerning their trips or stays in various European cities, share an experience of mobility, and most importantly, meet other “Euronautes”.
We will provide soon a research engine for jobs/internships offers provided by companies/NGOs in Europe. We will soon extend this service to accommodation offers in Europe (flat sharing all over European capitals). You are also going to find a GoogleMap to localise not only members of the Club and the good deals they have posted, but also the jobs offers available through the search engine.
What is your activity on the Internet?
Leseuronautes.eu is an entirely on line activity. Our goal is to propose fitted information and advice to young people, and to provide them with a virtual place to share videos, pictures, thus fostering a specific social network.
What advantages/discounts could you offer to our readers?
As expatriates, back from a foreign country or future expatriates, your readers will find on leseuronautes.eu all the practical and updated information on travelling to, settling in, studying or working in the 27 EU member states. They will also learn everything about the programmes set up by the EU to enable students or workers to move in Europe.
Taking advantage of our "club" section, they can find other "euronautes", ask questions and find answers, or share experiences among nationals from different European countries.
Contact:
www.leseuronautes.eu
Videos (French): http://www.dailymotion.com/www-leseuronautes-eu
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
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:
Festivals in Europe this March
siddlobo
26 February, 2009 15:36
It’s still a bit chilly but that’s never stopped anyone from having fun. Here’s a roundup of the top festivals happening across Europe this March.
Banlieues Blues, Paris, France
6th March – 10th April
Banlieues Bleues is one of the biggest and brightest jazz festivals in Paris. An annual festival, it has developed in seventeen towns in the county of Seine-Saint-Denis, on the edge of Paris. It takes place in spring, lasts for five weeks, and hosts some sixty groups from all round the world. It is open to jazz and to blues, contemporary and world music too.
http://www.banlieuesbleues.org/accueil.html
Find more information about expat life in France on Easy Expat.
Manchester Irish Festival, Manchester, England
6th March – 21st March
Music to parades, funfairs to Guinness, you’ll find it all at the Manchester Irish Festival. Don’t miss the St. Patricks’s parade on 15th March which is all set to break records for the number of people participating and floats set to appear.
http://www.manchesteririshfestival.com
Find more information about expat life in England on Easy Expat.
Las Fallas, Valencia, Spain
1st – 19th March
If loud, rowdy and fireworks sound like fun, Las Fallas is the festival for you. Las Fallas literally means "the fires" in Valencian. The focus of the fiesta is the creation and destruction of ninots--huge cardboard, wood and plaster statues--that are placed at over 350 key intersections and parks around the city. The ninots are extremely lifelike and usually depict bawdy, satirical scenes and current events (lampooning corrupt politicians and Spanish celebrities is particularly popular). Artists work year round to build these as fire fodder. Bound to bring out the pyromaniac in you.
http://www.donquijote.org/culture/spain/fiestas/lasfallas.asp
Find more information about expat life in Spain on Easy Expat.
Cheltenham Festival, England
10th -13th March
Here’s one for horse lovers and gamblers. Place a bet at one of the year’s most entertaining horse racing events. The 2009 Cheltenham Festival betting markets will be some of the richest in the sport. Punters from all over the world cumulatively bet millions on the Cheltenham Festival, and tens of thousands make the pilgrimage to Cheltenham to watch riders compete in some of National Hunt racing’s most exciting horse races.
http://cheltenham-festival-betting.com
Find more information about expat life in England on Easy Expat.
The Oxford and Cambridge Boat Race, London, England
29th March
The idea for the boat race started when two friends, one from Cambridge and the other from Oxford University decided to challenge each other to a boat race. Thus, was born a tradition in 1829 where the loser challenges the opposition to a rematch. The modern Boat Race has become a major international sporting event that attracts millions of viewers from across the world. Join in on the action at the 155th Boat Race.
http://www.theboatrace.org
Find more information about expat life in England on Easy Expat.
Spring Festival, Budapest, Hungary
20th March – 5th April
With over 200 events across 50 – 60 venues across Budapest, it’s hardly surprising that this is one of Hungary’s biggest cultural events. Highlights include concerts, chamber evenings, opera, folk music and dance, exhibitions and an International Theatre Festival.
http://www.btf.hu/btf2009
Paris Film Festival, France
Date to be decided
Paris Film Festival is also known as Festival de Paris-Ile-de-France in France. It is one of the most visited festivals of Paris among the tourists. This film festival in Paris was originally dedicated to children in its initial years. Paris Film Festival first started in the year 1986. The present day competition in the film festival depends on films of every genre and focuses on new talents.
http://www.mapsofworld.com/cities/france/paris/film-festival.html
Find more information about expat life in Paris on Easy Expat.
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
Carnivals in Europe this February
siddlobo
06 February, 2009 17:06
It’s carnival season all across Europe. Here are some of the wildest and fun places to be this February.
Carnival, Binche, Belgium
22nd February – 24th February
This is Belgium's most famous carnival and attracts thousands of visitors annually. This colorful event has even made it to the UNESCO Heritage list. One to visit if you’re in the vicinity.
http://www.visitbelgium.com/
Find more information about expat life in Belgium on Easy Expat.
Carnival, Barcelona, Spain
19th – 25th February
Barcelonians celebrate their carnival with an emphasis on gluttony. On Jueves Lardero - Fatty Thursday, a tortilla competition takes place, judged on taste, filling and presentation. Carnival weekends are known for their competitions for the much acclaimed pimiento de oro - golden pepper. On Saturday afternoon the celebrations come to a climax with the Gran Rua de Carnaval, a colossal parade of adorned carriages and carnival groups and a snowfall of streaming confetti.
http://www.whatsonwhen.com/
Find more information about expat life in Spain on Easy Expat.
Carnival, Bailleul-Monts des Cats, France
20th – 23rd February
Visit for four days of processions, chaired by the 'Gargantua Giant' - one of 50 floats that wind their way through town. Known for its local brass bands, processions, confetti and parties that go on until late in the town's cafés and bars. The carnival was originally set up by the Philanthropic Company of Bailleul and a staged search still goes on during the festivities to find the needy folk of the city.
http://www.istc.org/
Find more information about expat life in France on Easy Expat.
Carnival, Bremen, Germany
13th February -14th February
If parades, masked concerts and parties are your idea of fun, Bremen is the place to be! Each year the theme changes, but the infectious sound of pounding drums always accompanies colourful and flamboyant celebrations.
http://www.bremer-karneval.de/
Find more information about expat life in Germany (abroad in Frankfurt, expatriate in Munich) on Easy Expat.
Carnival, Foiano, Italy
8th February – 1st March; Sun only
Dating back to 1539, the Foiano Carnival in Arezzo is the oldest carnival in the country. Neighborhoods compete with each other to build the most impressive and creative floats, which parade through the town on four Sundays in February/March.
http://www.whatsonwhen.com/
Find more information about expat life in Italy (living in Milan, abroad in Rome) on Easy Expat.
Carnival, Funchal, Portugal
21st – 24th February
Often referred to as one of the best street parties in Europe, the Madeira Carnival brings the streets of the capital Funchal to life with its colourful carnival and parades. The biggest parade takes place on the opening Saturday, which involves thousands of participants all dressed in outlandish costumes as they dance to the sounds of the samba bands that fill the streets. Partying goes on late into the night and events continue throughout the weekend before the final parade on Shrove Tuesday during which everybody dresses up - many as cheeky caricatures of famous people or local politicians.
http://www.worldeventsguide.com/
Carnival, Venice, Italy
13th February – 24th February
The Venice Carnival is the largest and most important Venetian festival that attracts thousands of people from around the world each year. To keep with the tradition that everyone is equal, people at the carnival wear world renown masks on their faces. A must visit for those who want to experience a heady mixture of processions, masks, theatre, food and music.
http://www.venicecarnival.com
Find more information about expat life in Italy on Easy Expat.
Carnival, Rijeka, Croatia
22nd February
This 100-year-old tradition attracts carnival groups, spectators and the media, as well as guests from around the country and abroad. Carnival customs include the making of "ugly masks", which scare away evil forces, calling the spring and celebrating the birth of new life. Concerts, exhibitions, parties, performances and other festivities fill the days that precede the major event - the International Carnival Parade. Hundreds of floats, thousands of masks and streets crowded with spectators are the result of a competitive spirit built on originality, inventiveness and wittiness.
http://www.whatsonwhen.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
Top 10 Winter Travel Gadgets
siddlobo
16 January, 2009 14:15
Planning a winter break? Here are some gadgets that’ll make your trip a lot more comfortable and fun.
Sno-Baller
This is the easiest way to make up to 60 perfect snowballs per minute! With long handles, you’ll never have to worry about wet gloves and frozen fingers. And since Sno-Baller snowballs disintegrate on contact, they don’t hurt like ordinary hand packed snowballs.
http://www.vacationgadgets.com/productmgmt/
Snow Ball Blaster
Or you could go for the Snowball Blaster. This snowballing weapon sculpts up to 3 snowballs at a time and then, using the internal slingshot, fires them at your neighbours, friends and enemies.
http://idleparis.co.uk/snowball-launcher-gun-fun-cold-wars
DOTS gloves
Don’t you hate it when you have to take off your gloves every time your i-phone rings? Fret no more. DOTS gloves are the perfect solution. They have a couple of little balls on the fingertips that let you use your gadgets without freezing your fingers or forcing you to take off your gloves. Only $15 - $20.
http://www.dotsgloves.com
Heated socks
Stay warm and comfy with battery powered heated socks. HEAT SOX are knitted with a combination of Thermastat, high quality wool, nylon and acrylic yarns that form a very soft, yet extremely warm and truly comfortable fitting sock. It also comes with a battery pack and an embedded coil element that generates safe heat to keep your feet warm and comfortable, even on the coldest days.
http://www.vacationgadgets.com/productmgmt/
Boot, glove and skate dryers
Feeling damp and soggy after a day out in the snow? The Dry Fast is a portable footwear & garment dryer that allows you to dry footwear and garments anywhere. http://www.vacationgadgets.com/productmgmt/
Bench warmer
Never sit on a cold seat again with Bench Warmer. This heated seat is operated by a rechargeable battery and makes sure you keep your tush warm. It’s comfortable, portable, lightweight and water resistant.
http://www.vacationgadgets.com/productmgmt/
Make your own snow
And for those who’d like to make their snow, the SnoWonder is for you. SnoWonder looks and feels like natural snow. In fact, if you pour a bowl of it on real snow, you won't even be able to tell the difference!
http://www.vacationgadgets.com/productmgmt/
Shoe, boot warmers
Keep those cold feet warm all winter with boot warmers. These battery operated warmers come in a one size fits all deal. All you need to do is slip it into your sole and say goodbye to cold feet.
http://www.vacationgadgets.com/productmgmt/
g.cell gloves
Bluetooth technology has been finding its way into ski gear for a while now. The latest is the g.cell gloves. When it detects an incoming call, it gives your wrist a shake and enables you to quite literally talk to the hand. It’s a bit pricey but your hands will feel snug all through your call.
http://www.swanyamerica.com/
Winter Sports adventures
siddlobo
04 January, 2009 16:02
There’s more to winter sports than skiing and snowboarding. If you’d like to try something different this time, read on for alternative ways to keep the adrenaline pumping this winter.
Snowkiting
This is the ultimate winter sport for kiting enthusiasts or skiers and snowboarders looking for added action. Snowkiting is an outdoor winter board sport that combines kites and techniques used in kitesurfing with the footwear used in snowboarding or skiing. It differs from other alpine sports in that it is possible for the snowkiter to travel uphill when the wind is blowing uphill. No surprise then that it is becoming increasingly popular in places often associated with skiing and snowboarding, such as Canada, Austria, France, Switzerland, Norway, Sweden and the Northern United States.
http://www.snowkiting.com
Bobsledding
Invented by a group of Englishmen on holiday in Switzerland in 1890. Their aim was to create a sled that could carry two or more people down a snow covered road between St Mortiz and Celerina. The new sport immediately caught on and a special track, complete with banked curves made of ice was constructed next to the road in 1902. . Bobsleigh has evolved over the years into a dramatically exciting and demanding sport with competitions run down ice tracks that are at least 1500m long, have at least 15 banked curves which allow speeds of over 90 mph to be achieved.
Dog sledding
Here’s something for the dog lovers. Steer a team of strong and eager sled dogs through the snow-covered wilderness. Dog sledding is an exhilarating experience but can be hard work and tiring. Best places to try this sport out are Alaska, Canada and Lapland.
Tobogganing
If coasting down snowy hillsides or chutes is your idea of fun, tobogganing might be the sport for you. A toboggan is a simple sled used on snow, to carry one or more people (often children) down a hill or other slope, for recreation. A toboggan differs from most sleds or sleighs in that it has no runners or skis on the underside. The bottom of a toboggan rides directly on the snow.
Ice Karting
With its roots embedded deep within go-karting, ice karting is the latest craze to hit the ice. Ice Karting is a very exciting and thrilling activity, it’s fast and furious, even intense at times with your driving skills being tested to their limits. With the introduction of studded tyres, ice karting is a very new driving experience that requires very different driving skills. It is an activity where technique wins over outright speed, allowing drivers of all ages and experiences as long as they are of a certain height to compete on level terms.
Ice diving
This is for scuba diving enthusiasts who won’t let a small inconvenience like ice or snow come in their way of fun. Ice diving as the name suggests is a dive that takes place under ice. This is your opportunity o experience pure escapism beneath the surface of an ice covered lake, marvel at the ice formations and shafts of light penetrating through the frozen surface that create a kaleidoscopic array of colours when day-light is refracted through the ice above. Remember, ice diving should not be attempted by anyone not trained (or in training) by a qualified instructor.
Snowmobiling
Snow Mobiles, are known to many as Ski Doos, Snow Bikes and Snow Scooters. These land vehicles are propelled by one or two rubber caterpillar tracks, with skis for steering. Zip across icy landscapes at 150mph where the only roads are the ones you make.
Ski Joering
A new sport in fashion, ski-joering was originally a simple method of transport used by Lappish who harnessed reindeers. The idea is simple - a skier is pulled along by a horse on the snow. A bit like waterskiing, the skier lets himself be dragged along whilst holding on to a rudder bar and steering the horse with the reins and a whip. You can try it out at the Meribel and Courchevel Ski Resorts in France.
Sidd Lobo
Freelance copywriter
New Year traditions around the world
siddlobo
27 December, 2008 17:36
As another year comes to an end, let’s take a look at how people from around the world celebrate the New Year.
England
In England, crowds gather in Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus waiting to hear the chimes of London's Big Ben, which announces the arrival of the New Year. People link arms and there is usually a rendering of "Auld Lang Syne." The custom of "first-footing" is important. To ensure good luck for the inhabitants of a house, the first person to enter on New Year's Day should be male, young, healthy and good-looking. He should preferably be dark-haired and carrying a small piece of coal, money, bread and salt. These things symbolize wealth. Women and those people with blonde or red hair are considered unlucky "first-footers."
Find more information about expat life in England on Easy Expat.
Hong Kong
Since the people in Hong Kong are not allowed to set off real firecrackers at the New Year, they use plastic firecrackers as decorations. Most people favor red as the color for clothing and decorations since it is associated with joy and happiness. Lucky money is distributed in red envelopes with the family name and a good luck message written in gold. These are given on by relatives to the children of the family and any unmarried members only. The New Year feast is always a large one for the first day of the year.
Greece
The Greeks celebrate the beginning of the New Year by sharing a traditional sweet bread into which a coin has been baked. The bread is sliced at midnight and whoever gets the coin is believed to have good luck for the year.
Spain
The Spanish ritual on New Year's eve is to eat twelve grapes at midnight. The tradition is meant to secure twelve happy months in the coming year.
Find more information about expat life in Spain on Easy Expat.
Hungary
Effigies of a scapegoat known as "Jack Straw" are burned. These effigies represent the evils and misfortunes of the past year. "Jack Straw" is carried around the village before being set on fire.
China
The Chinese continue to observe the lunar New Year, which is based on the old Chinese lunar calendar, so it may occur at any point between January 1 and February 19. The celebration can last anywhere from 10 days to one month. They set off firecrackers and play drums and cymbals to drive away evil spirits. Gifts of money, in red envelopes, are exchanged.
Find more information about expat life in China on Easy Expat.
United States of America
Probably the most famous tradition in the United States is the dropping of the New Year ball in Times Square, New York City, at 11:59 P.M. Thousands gather to watch the ball make its one-minute descent, arriving exactly at midnight. The tradition first began in 1907. The original ball was made of iron and wood; the current ball is made of 2,668 Waterford Crystals, weighs 11, 875 pounds and is capable of creating more than 16 million vibrant colors and billions of patterns producing a spectacular kaleidoscope effect atop One Times Square.
Find more information about expat life in the US on Easy Expat. Find specific information on New York City, Chicago, San Francisco and Los Angeles.
Austria
New Year's Eve is called Sylverterabend, which is the Eve of Saint Sylvester. Austrians make a spiced punch in honor of the saint. Evil spirits of the old year are chased away by firing moroars. They attend midnight mass and trumpets are blown from church towers at midnight, when people kiss each other.
South Africa
In South Africa, church bells ring in the New Year and gunshots are fired. In the Cape Province area, carnivals are the order of the New Year's Day and Second New Year's Day. People dress in colorful costumes and dance in the streets to the sound of drums.
Find more information about expat life in South Africa on Easy Expat.
Mexico
In Mexico, the Christmas celebration of posadas culminates on January 6 in the Fiesta de los Reyes. On that day, the King’s Cake (rosca de reyes) is served. The cake is formed into a ring to symbolize a crown, and a doll is hidden in the dough. The one who finds the doll becomes the king for the day and must select a queen. The “royal” couple then hosts a party on Candlemas (February 2), when candles are lit for purification of the Virgin Mary.
Find more information about expat life in Mexico on Easy Expat.
Sidd Lobo
Freelance writer
Christmas traditions around the world
siddlobo
19 December, 2008 17:41
There’s more to Christmas than Christmas trees, gifts, Santa Claus, reindeers and mistletoes. Read on to find out more about some of the traditions associated with Christmas around the world.
United States of America
Celebrations vary greatly between regions of the United States, because of the variety of nationalities which have settled in it.
In Pennsylvania for example, the Moravians build a landscape, called a putz - under the Christmas tree, while in the same state the Germans are given gifts by Belsnickle, who taps them with his switch if they have misbehaved.
In Alaska, a star on a pole is taken from door to door, followed by Herod's Men, who do their best to capture the star. Colonial doorways are often decorated with pineapple, a symbol of hospitality.
In Washington D.C, Christmas takes on a political twist the President presses a button and turns on the lights on a spectacular tree.
In Boston, carol singing festivities are famous. The singers are accompanied by hand bells.
In New Orleans, a huge ox is paraded around the streets decorated with holly and with ribbons tied to its horns.
Find more information about expat life in the US on Easy Expat. Find specific information on New York City, Chicago, San Francisco and Los Angeles.
Italy
The Christmas season in Italy goes on for three weeks, starting eight days before Christmas known as the Novena. During this period, children go from house to house reciting Christmas poems and singing. In Rome, cannons are fired from Castel St. Angelo on Christmas Eve to announce the beginning of the holiday season. A 24-hour fast ends with an elaborate Christmas feast.
Find more information about expat life in Italy on Easy Expat. Find specific information on Milan and Rome.
Bethlehem
In Bethlehem the town where Jesus is said to have been born, the Church of the Nativity is ablaze with flags and decorations. On Christmas Eve natives and visitors alike crowd the church's doorways and stand on the roof to watch the dramatic annual procession. Galloping horsemen and police mounted on Arabian horses lead the parade. The procession solemnly enters the doors and places an ancient effigy of the Holy Child in the Church. Deep winding stairs lead to a grotto where visitors find a silver star marking the site of the birth of Jesus. Christian homes in Bethlehem are marked by a cross painted over the door and each home displays a homemade manger scene. A star is set up on a pole in the village square.
Find more information about expat life in Israel on Easy Expat.
Germany
Christmas preparations often begin on the eve of December 6th. People set aside special evenings for baking spiced cakes and cookies, and making gifts and decorations. Children leave letters on their windowsills for Christkind, a winged figure dressed in white robes and a golden crown who distributes gifts. Sometimes the letters are decorated with glue and sprinkled with sugar to make them sparkle.
Find more information about expat life Germany on Easy Expat. Find specific information on Frankfurt and Munich.
France
In France, Christmas is called 'Noël. In cathedral squares, the story of Christ's birth is re-enacted by players and puppets. Another prominent aspect of Christmas in France is the traditional Yule log-shaped cake called the buche de Nol, which means "Christmas Log." On Christmas Eve, children leave their shoes by the fireplace to be filled with gifts from Pere Noel. Adults usually wait until New Year's Day to exchange gifts.
Find more information about expat life in France on Easy Expat.
Australia
Christmas in Australia is often very hot. So instead of the traditional winter scene, Christmas here is often celebrated in the gardens and beaches. The warm weather allows Australians to enjoy a tradition of Carols by Candlelight. This is held every year on Christmas Eve, where tens of thousands of people gather in the city of Melbourne to sing their favorite Christmas songs.
Sweden
The most important day is Christmas Eve. A special Christmas meal is eaten on Christmas Eve - ham (pork), herring fish, and brown beans - and this is the time when families give presents to each other. Most people attend mass early on Christmas Day.
Find more information about expat life in Sweden on Easy Expat.
Russia
In the days of the Soviet Union, Christmas was not celebrated very much. New Year was the important time - when 'Father Frost' brought presents to children. With the fall of Communism, Christmas is now openly celebrated - either on December 25th; or more often on January 7th which is the date for celebration according to the ‘Julian calendar’ that the Russian Orthodox Church uses. Special Christmas food includes cakes, pies and 'meat dumplings'.
Sidd Lobo
Freelance writer
Top 10 European Ski Resorts
siddlobo
04 December, 2008 17:58
Planning a ski vacation but not sure where to go? This article
features some ski resorts that are popular amongst both, professionals
and hobby skiers alike. From the most spectacular views to the places
with the best runs, least waits and deepest powder, read on to find out
more about some of the top ski resorts across Europe.
Chamonix Mont Blanc, France
This is a world famous ski resort. Located in the shadow of Mont Blanc,
Chamonix is one of Europe's most rugged sports resorts. Its Vallée
Blanche, a 12-mile run is among Europe's longest trails. For the truly
adventurous, there is backcountry skiing, hang gliding and ice climbing
opportunities. It also has a packed winter agenda featuring Christmas
celebrations, figure skating, speed skating and ski jumping events.
Find out more at http://www.chamonix.com/
Courchevel, France
Imagine 1,304 acres of mountain entirely dedicated to winter sports.
That’s Courchevel for you. One of the resorts with the largest linked
ski area in the world, the Trois Vallees, the Courchevel boasts of 150
kilometres of downhill pistes, served by 62 chairlifts, to get the most
out of your day’s skiing. Beginner or pro, you’ll find an itinerary to
match your level.
http://www.courchevel.com
Find more information about expat life in France on Easy Expat.
Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
Cortina D'Ampezzo is one of the best ski regions in Italy. It’s located
in the Dolomite Mountains in northeast Italy and surrounded by the
rocky Dolomite mountain range. Skiers can enjoy over 350
kilometres of slopes in 90 ski regions. For those looking for variety
in their winter holiday, look no further. Activities here include
bobsledding, snow rafting and high-speed tobogganing.
http://www.cortina.dolomiti.com/
Find more information about expat life in Italy on Easy Expat. Find specific information on Milan and Rome.
Jung Frau Region, Switzerland
This is your opportunity to ski in a UNESCO World Heritage site
recognized for its natural beauty. Located in the German-speaking heart
of Switzerland, Interlaken offers winter sport's fans access to some of
the most spectacular skiing in the Alps, with their base in a
service-packed small city in a spectacular lakeside setting. The
Jungfrau Top Ski Region, containing more than 160 Km (100 miles) of
trails in ski centers above Grindelwald are all linked to Interlaken by
a mountain railway included in a ski pass. With the pass, you can ski
in a different ski area every day for a week.
http://www.how2ski.com/
Gstaad, Switzerland
Surrounded by some of Switzerland's finest alpine scenery, Gstaad lies
in the south west of the country, about two hours' drive from Geneva or
Zurich on the boundary between the Bernese Oberland and the Vaud Alpes.
Gstaad is a charming, car-free village. In winter, this magnificent ski
area is served by about 60 ski lifts. Cable cars ferry you into the
mountains - and the local tourist travel pass, the Gstaad Easyaccess
Card will offer you great value for money.
http://www.magicswitzerland.com/
Zermatt, Switzerland
This charming winter wonderland is one of Europe's premier winter
playgrounds. The fairy-tale setting is home to a village of Swiss
chalets, narrow streets, crystal clear streams, timbered homes and
balconied hotels. Access to this village is only by train. Here three
major ski areas provide terrain for skiers of various levels.
http://www.zermatt.ch/
Find more information about expat life in Switzerland on Easy Expat.
Lech/ Zurs, Austria
Traditional in style yet modern in service and amenities, this region
is what resorts try to emulate when they strive for the Austrian
“look.” Tons of skiing opportunities abound in this region. Separated
by miles of snow fields, peaks and passes, the towns here are all
linked by shuttlebuses, lifts and a single Arlberg ski pass to form a
skiing wonderland for intermediate and expert skiers. Once remote—and
inaccessible after heavy snow—the area is now only a two-and-a-half
hour drive from Zürich Airport and less than two hours from Innsbruck.
http://skisnowboardeurope.com/
Kitzbuhel, Austria
Kitzbühel was one of the first truly international resorts and still
draws visitors from all over the world. The resort draws a combination
of Europeans who love the tradition and party-loving young skiers and
snowboarders for whom nightlife is prime. There are resorts in the Alps
with better snow and more imposing mountains, but this large town is
known for its beautiful combination of Tyrolean charm, liveliness, and
easy access from Munich.
http://www.kitzbuehel.com/
Ischgl, Austria
Ischgl and Galtur located in the Asutrian Tirol are in a mountain range
known as the Silvrettas. The ski terrain of 200 kms is entirely skiable
with one convenient ski pass and consists of the villages of Ischgl,
Galtur and the Swiss village of Samnaun. The Silvrette Arena in
Ischgl-Samnaun has 39 lifts and ropeways and 215 kilometres of ski
runs. The Austrian village Ischgl is renowned for its charm and
late-night partying
http://www.skiaustria.com/
Solden, Austria
Sölden is Austria’s first winter sports resort to offer the keen skier
3 superbly developed three thousand meter high mountains, known as the
BIG3. Even on ice-cold days fun and action are guaranteed at the ice
skating rink located next to Sölden's sports field. The common ski pass
for the ski areas of Sölden and Obergurgl-Hochgurgl comprises of 67
mountain lifts and 257 km of immaculate slopes. The ski resort is a
popular party destination for young people and unsurprisingly après ski
parties abound.
http://www.soelden.com/
Sidd Lobo
Freelance writer
Festivals in Europe this December
siddlobo
26 November, 2008 16:13
Christmas is in the air. Let’s get into the spirit of the season and see what else is happening all across Europe in December.
Clothesshow, Birmingham, England
5th December – 10th December
Calling all fashion addicts! This is the world’s largest fashion and beauty event. Expect world class fashion shows, designs, labels, hair stylists, models, celebrities and endless opportunities to shop. The highlight is the Fashion Theatre, a catwalk show featuring over 40 models and dancers from around the world.
http://www.clothesshowlive.com
Fete de l’escalade, Geneva, Switzerland
12th December – 14th December
This is an annual festival held in Geneva every December celebrating the defeat of surprise attack troops sent by Charles Emanuel 1 during the night of 11-12 Decmber in the night of 1602! Celebrations include a large marmite (cauldron) made of chocolate filled with marzipan vegetables and candies wrapped in the Geneva colours of red and gold. Other traditions include mulled wine, a large serving of soup, and children in Halloween-like costumes singing Escalade songs for money.
http://www.compagniede1602.ch
Festival of Lights, Lyon, France
5th December – 8th December
Lyon's most famous event takes the form of a beautiful illumination throughout the city. Since 1852, locals have celebrated the anniversary of a spontaneous demonstration of faith and solidarity that followed the unveiling of a statue of the Virgin Mary on the Fourvière hillside. The event is remembered with a display of lights: each house and each window is illuminated, and a procession is held by lantern-light. It has now become a four day festival with a host of concerts and activities planned around the procession
http://www.whatsonwhen.com/sisp/index.htm?fx=event&event_id=21963
Imperial Ball, Vienna, Austria
31st December
Bring in the New Year in style. Visitors from all over the world come to Vienna to spend New Years' Eve in the former winter residence of the Austrian Emperor. This is the ultimate posh and luxurious experience. Expect glamorous dances, Viennese music, Deutschmeister Band marches and a gala dinner.
http://www.valhol.com/viennaball.shtml
Winter Festival, Moscow
Last week of December, first week of Janaury
The Moscow Russian Winter Festival takes place in Izmailovo Park. Visitors can enjoy troika rides and listen to folk music performances. Winter Festivals take place in various spots across Moscow. Activities you can join in include ice sculpting on Red Square and snowman-building on Arbat Street.
http://goeasteurope.about.com/od/russia/p/izmaylovomarket.htm
Christmas Markets, Germany
Until 23rd December
There’s no better way to slip into the Christmas mood than by visiting one of the many charming Christmas markets that pop up in various parts of Germany towards the end of November. Forget about the usual mass produced gifts. You’ll find some quaint and handcrafted gifts like crib figurines, toys, wood carvings, marionettes, candles and lambskin shoes sold in a traditional Christmas setting. And while you’re there, don’t forget to warm yourself up with some delicious glue wine. For more information on locations and timings of the markets, click the link below.
http://www.germany-christmas-market.org.uk
Christmas at Tivoli, Copenhagen, Denmark
All December
Christmas at Tivoli has become a family tradition for those living in Copenhagen or visiting at the time. It’s easy to get into the Christmas mood with masses of Christmas trees, presents, elves, stalls and magic. Warm beverages, a cosy atmosphere and amazing lighting makes this a winter fairytale
http://www.tivoli.dk/composite-4983.htm
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
