Expat Daily News

Teaching Overseas – Top 5 Opportunities for US Expats!

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Beverley) — Fri, 24 May 2013 05:00:00 +0000

If you’re a native English speaker and own a passport there are ample opportunities for you to work teaching English as a foreign language overseas. Here’s a rundown of the top 5 opportunities for US expats:

South Korea - A great opportunity for an expat who adapts well to different cultures. The quick growth of Korea’s economy in the last decade has created an interesting merge of traditional culture, high rise buildings and hyper shopping malls. The type of expat who will get the most out of Korea is one who thrives off experiencing different cultures, and trying interesting food (if you find live octopus interesting that is). Korea is also a good option for first time expats as visas are relatively cheap and accommodation and flights are usually provided with a job.

Poland – An extremely popular choice with US expats looking to live in a cheap and central European location. If you want to live in Poland you’ll first need a school to sponsor your working visa, but once you’re there teachers report good job satisfaction and often renew their contracts year after year.

The UAE – The home of high rise hotels and tax free living! The UAE is one of the most affluent Arab oil states. It is also one of the more open minded Gulf States and therefore appeals to a lot of expat adventurers. In Dubai, expats make up a huge 90% of the resident population and as a result home comforts are very easy to come by! Not to mention, the weather is great and Dubai experiences only an average of 2 days rain a month.

Japan- The range of teaching jobs in Japan outweighs that of many other countries. You could be working in a kindergarten with 2-5 year olds or teaching business English to a company CEO. It’s important to remember that whilst salaries in Japan are decent, the cost of living is also fairly high. A good measure is to consider if you could live in a big city back home on the salary. Having said that, more people go to Japan for the culture than to earn mega bucks!

Thailand- Teaching in Thailand tends to be more about a lifestyle than a job. Work in after-school academies is particularly popular here as it leaves you to enjoy the bulk of your day at the beach! It’s also worth noting that due to visa regulations you’ll need a degree to teach.

Wherever it is you want to teach, you’ll want to start by checking out a specialist TEFL jobs board and finding out more about salary expectations, working hours and additional job perks.

Questions and Answers: Managing Finances While Traveling Overseas

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Beverley) — Thu, 23 May 2013 05:00:00 +0000

This is the second in a Question and Answer series by overseas retirement experts Billy and Akaisha Kaderli and addresses the issue of how to manage your finances while traveling for long periods of time. They answer questions on how they obtain local currency? Pay their bills? Take care of their taxes? Their answers below will give you some insight.

Q: You two have been traveling for over two decades now. Let’s get into the nuts and bolts. How do you handle your finances while traveling so much?

A: It’s so much easier today than it was years ago when we first began our worldwide adventure. At that time, there was no internet, no online payments, and no paperless statements. We pre-paid our credit cards just so we could charge on them if need be, and would receive statements months later through snail mail – if we ever received them at all!

Today, our financial statements are digitalized and we can download them on our computer to view. We transfer money online from one account to another in order to obtain cash or to pay a bill and we are enrolled in automatic BillPay. We pay cash for just about everything and we obtain local currency through ATMs using a debit card.

We monitor our spending on a daily basis, and use a one year daily cost average, and a daily cost average that trails for 2 years. In this way we know in real time how much money we are using and where it’s going. There are no surprises.

Statements on our investment accounts are available online also. Both of us have 2 debit cards with staggering expiration dates plus one Mastercard, one Visa and a Discover card. Again, the expiration dates are spread out so they all do not expire together.

Q: We just finished up tax season here in the States, how do you gather all of your data and file those?

A: We receive all of our financial statements digitally including 1099’s and we correspond with our CPA via email, or when necessary, through Skype. Once we have everything organized, we enter the data into a workbook our tax advisor supplies via email and return it to her in the same manner. We sign our tax return digitally and she files it with the IRS electronically.

Q: And credit cards? You must use them right?

A: We use credit cards outside of the U.S. mostly for purchasing airline tickets, and these bills are paid automatically through our BillPay system. We check our accounts online regularly to monitor activity.

Q: Without using credit cards how do you pay for things day to day?

A: We have debit cards from our investment accounts that we use at ATMs to obtain local currency. We are able to transfer cash instantly from our main account into this Smart Cash Account which limits liability in case of a robbery at an ATM or in case we lose our Debit Cards. The particular account we have with our brokerage house also refunds any ATM transaction fees.

Q: How do pay for bills that require a check for something that is not set up for automated payments?

A: There are times when a physical check is needed to pay a bill or perhaps to gift to a friend or family member. We utilize a BillPay system through our brokerage house which allows us to have a physical check mailed to the business or person whom we want to send money. This is very convenient and all of our expense records are kept online.

Q: What about having a local bank account in a foreign country? Do you advise this option?

A: If we were permanent residents in a foreign country or if we owned property, we might have a local bank account to pay for utilities, cable TV or rent. Many of these bills can now be placed on automatic paying systems in foreign countries. If you travel or are only in your overseas location 6 months out of the year this is very convenient. These bills are paid on time without worry, and you don’t need to send checks from your home country or pay someone locally to be sure your outstanding charges are covered.

Also, some people prefer to have local check writing privileges.

Q: How do you update your credit cards when out of the country?

A: We like to have our credit cards with staggering expiration dates as far into the future as we are able. That being said, when they come due or almost due, we contact our credit card holders while on a visit to the States and have a new one issued and sent to us at our U.S. address.

Q: What if your cards are stolen or lost? What’s “plan B”?

A: Each of us has a secondary card and both of us have different financial accounts. We have other credit cards with differing card holders and we carry a few hundred U.S. Dollars cash with us to buy us time to get things sorted out. We could always send money through PayPal to a friend and have him give us that cash, but if all that fails… I guess we’d be calling family, friends and neighbors to help us out!

Part one in this series: Medical Tourism

About the Authors: Billy and Akaisha Kaderli are recognized retirement experts and internationally published authors on topics of finance and world travel. With the wealth of information they share on their popular website RetireEarlyLifestyle.com, they have been helping people achieve their own retirement dreams since 1991. They wrote the popular books, The Adventurer’s Guide to Early Retirement and Your Retirement Dream IS Possible.

Where is an Expat’s Wealth Safe?

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Beverley) — Wed, 22 May 2013 05:00:00 +0000

2013 has been a bad year for expatriate wealth so far. Inflation in some nations is raging out of control. Unemployment and fiscal stress in other nations are having an impact on all citizens, with expats often acutely affected by issues such as job insecurity and complex taxation for example.

Expatriates on the European island of Cyprus have certainly felt the pinch, with many still living a nightmare as their bank accounts have been frozen ahead of an anticipated wealth grab by the nation’s EU bailed out government.

Elsewhere it’s reported that many expats in Spain are desperately trying to flee the country, this is because the government has decreed that any resident with foreign-based assets worth in excess of 50,000 Euro must declare these assets, or face massive fines. No one yet knows what the government plans to do with the information it is gathering relating to which expats have wealth abroad. There’s a real fear that the Cypriot asset grab model could be copied.

For all expatriates therefore, the question about where one’s money is safe is a prominent one. You don’t have to be a millionaire to need wealth advice; you just need to be living on planet Earth right now. Even old home nations can sting an expat for taxation if they leave any asset behind…

The key to securing your wealth’s protection and advancement statuses is in getting the right advice dependent upon your own personal position.

An American expat living in France will need different advice to a French expat living in the US for example; what’s more, two American expats in France will need differing advice depending on the type and value of assets, and everything from their age to their marital status for example.

You need to start from a position of finding the right adviser to assist you. A local adviser in your new nation – or even your old adviser from back home - will not necessarily be best placed to assist. They won’t understand the complexities of the international aspects of your life which compound the confusion of your status.

The good news is that being an expat brings more opportunities than problems generally, and particularly when it comes to the protection and advancement of your wealth. You just need to ensure you get informed about any disclosure rules that apply, any tax demands that exist, and all of the opportunities you have for the prevention of erosion of your wealth.

Seek advice from an international financial advisory, regulated to give advice in your current country of residence. Ensure their advisers are correctly qualified and suitably experienced, and see assurances in the form of testimonials from any adviser/advisory you consider engaging to assist you.

Do not bury your head in the sand, do not assume that your money is best left back home/moved offshore/invested in your new nation. You will need to consider aspects such as taxation as well as the fiscal stability of any country you place money in, and take a regular check on the status of your wealth at least bi-annually, because situations change quickly.

The best advisories offer clients this regular review service free of charge, once they have taken the time to completely overhaul their personal financial position. This ensures that you can relax in between reviews, knowing that a professional is managing your wealth’s protection to secure its advancement.

Rhiannon Davies writes for Swiss Regent, the premier expatriate financial advisory.

The Good Luck Charm

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Beverley) — Mon, 20 May 2013 05:30:00 +0000

I am always interested to hear what prompts people to leave the country of their birth to become an expat in another country. Often it is due to work commitments, or simply a desire to escape to the sun, and where maybe the retirement pound will stretch further. Sometimes people tell me that it is a book or a film that has inspired them, or set the seed for a dream that later turns into reality. It was a conversation along these lines that prompted one expat to suggest that I include a list of ‘Top Films for Expats’ on my Expat website and mobile Apps.

As I reflected on this suggestion, I dusted down an old copy of the film ‘Tea with Mussolini’, which I had not seen for many years. If you haven't seen it, you really should, because although it is set in wartime Italy, there are characters in the film that portray much of what you should not do or be as an expat, and displaying a heady mixture of Empire arrogance and paternalism that is both amusing and infuriating. Indeed, the story is not that far from reality as I have met many such characters in the last few years, both in Spain and the Canary Islands in my role as a newspaper reporter, who would be an ample match for the expat Brits in this film! Thankfully, they are now a dying breed.

It was whilst carrying out research for this new project, that another friend suggested that I add ‘Little Buddha’ to my list of suggested films for expats. This was not a film that I have seen, and it was whilst researching the plot on the Internet that I received a message from a friend in the Costa Blanca. His mother, Grace, had arrived in the Costa Blanca for a visit, but before she had left, a well-meaning friend had given her small Buddha as a good luck charm. Sadly, shortly after receiving and carefully packing the Buddha in her suitcase, Grace had a large glass of coke poured all over her, ruining her new white blouse. Upon her arrival in Spain, Grace tripped and fell outside the airport, badly bruising her knee and arm, as well as her dignity and a new 200 euro pair of designer sunglasses. Not a good start to Grace’s holiday.

Since Grace arrived in Spain, it has rained incessantly, and the only time that Grace ventured outside was ruined when she caught and broke the heel of her new pair of designer shoes in a drain cover outside the apartment. The following morning, when Grace awoke, she switched on her bedside lamp, which promptly exploded, shattering glass all over her. Thankfully, Grace was unhurt, but beginning to wish that either she or the Buddha had stayed at home. I am not a great believer in the effectiveness of good luck charms, other than occasionally wishing that those who have a rabbit’s paw as a good luck charm have similar luck as the poor rabbit. Maybe Grace should begin to question the motives of her friend when she arrives home. Perhaps the friend was jealous and really wanted a holiday in Spain too? By the way, I understand that the good luck charm is now floating somewhere in the Mediterranean, so if you should happen to find it, I suggest that you keep well away.

Meanwhile, I continue my search for films that have proved to be an inspiration for the intending expat. I now have a rapidly growing list, but if you have any suggestions, do please let me know.

About the author: Barrie Mahoney was a teacher, head teacher and school inspector in the UK, as well as a reporter in Spain, before moving to the Canary Islands as a newspaper editor. He is still enjoying life in the sun as a writer and author.

If you enjoyed this article, take a look at Barrie’s websites: www.barriemahoney.com and www.thecanaryislander.com or read his latest book, ‘Twitters from the Atlantic’ (ISBN: 978 1480033986). Available as paperback, Kindle and iBooks. iPhone/iPad Apps: ExpatInfo and CanaryIsle now available from the Apple Store.

6 Great Reasons to Retire Overseas (& How to Make it Happen)

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Beverley) — Wed, 15 May 2013 05:30:00 +0000

Gone are the days where people retired when they were old and out of energy, simply choosing a destination like Florida to settle down, relax and spend the rest of their days. Today's retirees are looking for adventure and excitement. They're looking to take on this part of their life and soak up every moment. And with rising unemployment and a crippling cost of living, it's no wonder this group is considering life abroad:

It's a Life of Adventure

After working for 20-40 years, staying in your own community might not be the exciting retirement you had in mind. But when you're living in America, regularly traveling across the pond isn't cheap. Instead of traveling back and forth, why not pack up and make the move? A change of pace and scenery may be exactly what you're looking for.
For example, people who choose to retire in France will find that they're never at a loss for things to do, according to the AARP. The town of Perpignan, for example, is a perfect choice for retirees looking to enjoy endless shopping, cafes, outdoor concerts and historical sites. Best of all, there's a train that will quickly take people to Paris in a matter of hours.

Lower Cost of Living

Instead of living a make-do and get-by retirement struggle many people find that living abroad can stretch the nest egg further while still living a comfortable lifestyle. In the U.S., we're used to paying high prices for daily luxuries such as coffee, transportation and groceries. In many countries, these daily necessities are offered at a much more reasonable price. For example, you can live comfortably for around $1,000 monthly in Cuenca, Ecuador; Santa Fe, Panama; and Chiang Mai, Thailand, according to USNews.com.

You Can Still Make Contact

Depending on where you relocate, you may be miles apart from family and friends. But technology has made it possible for people to stay in touch no matter where they go. When living overseas, you could use Skype or Google Hangouts to regularly video chat with your grandkids. Both services are free. Or family members could call you. Some packages include international talk and text for as little as $10 monthly. On several T-mobile cell phone plans, users can use voice minutes to call landlines in more than 50 countries, including most of North, Central and South America, Europe and Asia.

Lower Cost of Medical Care

Medical tourism is on the rise, and because of it what you pay for a medical procedure abroad could be a fraction of the cost of what you'd pay in the states. As a foreign retiree in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia or Panama City, Panama, you'd have access to quality, international-standard medical care, according to USNews.com. And as a bonus, many of these hospitals are staffed with English-speaking, U.S. medical school-trained doctors.

Housing is Inexpensive

If you could spend your savings on a two bedroom in the suburbs or a beach-front property in the tropics, what would you choose? According to AARP, retirees in Belize can build their dream home for the same cost many young American couples are paying for their starter homes in the city. And cheap housing isn't the only thing that makes Central America attractive as a paradise; thoughts of year-round boating, hiking and swimming often seduce foreigners into never leaving.

Ideal Climate

Whether it's sunshine you seek or a cool and rainy corner of the world you can call your own, retiring abroad means you can choose your climate. Visit Worldclimate.com to find weather data for cities around the globe.

Why Expatriates Can’t Run and Hide Overseas

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Beverley) — Tue, 14 May 2013 04:00:00 +0000

The case of British expatriate Andrew Moran, who was arrested in Spain earlier this week after becoming one of the UK’s most wanted felons on the run abroad, should highlight to all expats that they can’t run and hide overseas.

Whilst most expats aren’t on the run in the same way that Moran was – he was hiding abroad from police after his alleged part in an armed robbery in the UK – many expats are running and attempting to hide from their old life.

However, as this article will explain, it’s impossible to hide from patterns of behaviour and ultimately from oneself, therefore if you have problems in your life you should consider tackling them head on before you expatriate, if you want the chance of a truly new life overseas.

The Expat Who Runs and Hides

No matter which nation you move to on the planet, it seems that there will be another expatiate who has made it their home already! What’s more, because the concept of globalization really has become reality, fewer and fewer attractive international destinations are expat-free. What this means is that as an expatriate yourself, you will see new faces come…and old faces leave during your own time overseas.

If you sit back and take a detached view of those who come and go you may well begin to see patterns of behaviour repeated.

The extremely positive expat will fly in, full of great expectations about how their new life will be better, a vast improvement on the awful lot they left behind. They will rush at friendships and even jobs without any tempered caution, mad keen to start their new life overseas with a bang. They will bitch and complain a great deal about how elements (or indeed all) of their old life were awful, how none of it was their fault, how their new life abroad will be the answer to all their prayers…

And then all of a sudden things will inexplicably fall apart in front of them, and they will have no understanding of why. Instead they will once again blame the location, the people, the weather, the lack of opportunities…and they will leave.

No matter where you live in the world, if you live in an expatriate attractive destination you will see this occurrence time and again.

Why Do You Want to Live Abroad?

If you’re contemplating a move to a new nation can you honestly say that it’s for the right reasons? Are you sure you’re not in a loop of running and hiding yourself?

It’s all very well to find a new job overseas and take it, believing it will be better than your old job for example. But are you blaming your life’s current state on your location primarily, perhaps without even realising it?

Be honest with yourself about why you want to move, (or are committed to moving) overseas. If you have valid reasons and you’re assured they have nothing to do with attempting to bury your head in the sand, go for it!

However, if you are unhappy with things around you, are the problems actually within you to solve before you move?

You see, if you don’t shed excess emotional baggage, solve family issues, sort out your relationships, or improve your career prospects by skilling up or getting a better education for example, you may risk running a loop of hiding from a less than palatable truth. And that less than palatable truth is that you need to do some serious amounts of personal work before you can be happy anywhere in the world.

Move Abroad Only When You’re Ready

Beginning a life abroad can be the break some people need to start a fantastic new life chapter. However, to be certain that you will get the very most out of your new life, and to be certain that you will be able to make the most of every opportunity you are presented with, you need to be ready to adapt and embrace.

If you’re stuck in a loop of old patterns of behaviour when you relocate, you will discover that you’re taking all of your problems with you – and hey presto, after a few months of euphoria in your new location, the reality will bite. You will discover that nothing apart from the landscape around you has changed.

Therefore, don’t move abroad until you’re certain of your own motives, and you’re truly ready to make the most of the relocation. The move will be expensive and it will be stressful at times, therefore you need to be totally committed to it to get beyond any initial barriers, and to ensure you really can benefit from the new opportunities that you will find.

About the author: Rhiannon Davies writes for ShelterOffshore, the leading online expatriate resource with living overseas, offshore investment and real estate abroad information channels.

The One Way Ticket to Paradise

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Beverley) — Mon, 13 May 2013 05:00:00 +0000

Tour companies are strange and unique creations. Browsing through brochures or skipping through the pages of Internet travel sites is one of those deliciously exciting things to do during those endless cold, wet winter evenings. It is a time when we can dream of sun drenched beaches, sparking white sands and beautiful evenings sitting in a favourite bar enjoying the sunset with our favourite tipple, or indeed our partners...

Is it really like this? Well, for many it is. However, I have lived and worked long enough in tourist resorts, mingling and chatting with tour operators and visitors to realise that there is a rather more chilling side to our overseas holidays. It is an area that no one will talk about. For instance, just what does happen if you or your beloved should happen to die abroad?

Obviously death on holiday is not one of the features advertised in your glossy holiday brochure, but as inconvenient and thoughtless as it is, it really does happen and with alarming regularity too; indeed, tour companies have departments dealing solely with such issues. The stress of flights, dashing across the runway, over-relaxation (yes, there really is such a thing), too much rich food, too much alcohol, too much sun and, basically too much of everything can lead to strokes, heart attacks and much worse.

Indeed, I know of several people on our holiday islands that specialise in getting you back to the UK in one piece, albeit dead or alive, in a box or in an urn. If one is dead, one can usually assume that there will be a rather speedier check in, better quality service, less crowding, no passport control, no screaming kids, but sadly no in-flight meal either. All very reassuring, isn't it?

Death really does happen on our holiday island. I heard of one very sad true story recently of a couple that came on holiday to enjoy the sun, which I will share with you.

Sadly, the wife passed away during an unfortunate incident at a display of flamenco dancing with an added fire-eating act at a high quality hotel. It was a tragic combination of too many pina colada cocktails and an unfortunate experience with a cocktail cherry that led to the good lady’s early demise. She was pronounced dead as a doormat by the attending physician, and taken away to the local mortuary. It was a shocking end to a wonderful evening and fellow guests wondered how they would get through the remainder of their holidays. However, they found ways to cope with their grief.

The poor lady’s husband continued to enjoy his much needed break and as he was ‘all inclusive’ he took advantage of every breakfast, lunch and dinner on offer, as well as all the evening shows, excursions to the local market and free cocktails until it was time for his departure to the UK. He packed his bags and took the courtesy coach to the airport and duly checked in for his flight to Gatwick.

It was a few days later when the tour company received an anxious telephone call from the mortuary that was holding the body of his dear, but very dead wife. Sadly, the holidaymaker had returned home without making arrangements for the disposal or return of his wife. So, the tour company really were left ‘holding the body’.

Such things happen on holiday, so do please make sure you have a discussion about “What happens if...” before you leave home. Quality insurance cover, together with a decision about burial, cremation or burial at sea is always a good idea and does add a little ‘spice’ to holiday planning. Above all, do have a relaxing and enjoyable holiday!

About the author: Barrie Mahoney was a teacher, head teacher and school inspector in the UK, as well as a reporter in Spain, before moving to the Canary Islands as a newspaper editor. He is still enjoying life in the sun as a writer and author.

If you enjoyed this article, take a look at Barrie’s websites: www.barriemahoney.com and www.thecanaryislander.com or read his latest book, ‘Message in a Bottle’ (ISBN: 978 1480 031005). Available as paperback, Kindle and iBooks. Also, download the Apple iPhone Apps: ExpatInfo and CanaryIsle.

Questions and Answers: Medical Tourism

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Beverley) — Thu, 09 May 2013 06:00:00 +0000

By Billy and Akaisha Kaderli

Billy and Akaisha Kaderli are recognized retirement experts and internationally published authors on topics of finance and world travel. With the wealth of information they share on their popular website RetireEarlyLifestyle.com, they have been helping people achieve their own retirement dreams since 1991. They wrote the popular books, The Adventurer’s Guide to Early Retirement and Your Retirement Dream IS Possible.

In this, the first of a series of articles, Billy and Akaisha answer the most commonly asked questions about Medical Tourism.

Q: I have heard the term “Medical Tourism,” but what exactly is it?

A: Generally, Medical Tourism refers to going elsewhere other than your own city or state to receive medical care. For example, people in the U.S. have been going out of their home state to Mayo Clinic for years, and no one thinks twice about it. Canadians will come to the U.S. for procedures perhaps because they don’t want to deal with long waits in their own home country or maybe they have other personal reasons.

Today, there are dozens of countries like Thailand, Mexico, Costa Rica, India, Guatemala, Singapore and the Philippines which offer excellent medical care delivery in ultra modern facilities for very affordable prices.

Q: Isn’t this scary having an operation in a foreign country?

A: The idea is frightening to many people, most likely because this topic is out of their comfort zone. Having surgery is stressful under the best of circumstances, and the thought of going outside the country can be over-the-top. Not everyone would choose this option, but for those who are self-insured, have limited coverage, or who do not want to put off a hip or knee replacement, for example, medical tourism can provide excellent care at prices that are reachable.

Q: What happens if something goes wrong, say my knee replacement doesn’t work properly?

A: This is an excellent question and often people stop pursuing the subject right here, assuming there is no assistance for them if something goes wrong. Shopping for a medical service provider overseas is to be taken seriously. Depending on which company is chosen and the package you purchase, rehabilitation, medication and follow up care is included in the price.

For those who are especially concerned about this, you can purchase “adverse outcome” insurance in the States before a procedure is done. The U.S. based company will pay out if a face lift or hip replacement goes awry.

Q: What about dental care do overseas clinics offer that as well?

A: Some countries excel in dental surgeries and mouth restoration. Even if you want routine work such as a root canal, bridge or crown, the money you save by having it done elsewhere can pay for your trip. If you have several dental implants done overseas, you can save a significant amount of money.

Q: OK, let’s talk about cost. Honestly is there that much difference considering that I need to fly there and stay in a hotel?

A: Absolutely! I have mentioned price savings a couple of times in my responses. It is no secret that the delivery of medical care in the States is beyond expensive and out of the reach of many, even with insurance deductibles. If you have a pre-existing heart condition or had cancer some years ago, many insurance companies will not cover you. In these cases treatment in the States can cost hundreds of thousands of dollars. Not so overseas.

A heart valve replacement in the States can cost $170,000 but will run you $24,000 in Guatemala City. Chemotherapy in the States runs about $75,000 but is under $20,000 in Guatemala City. A bone marrow transplant can cost up to $200,000 in the U.S., but will run up to $25,000 in India. A spinal fusion runs between $80-100,000 in the United States but will cost you $6-10,000 overseas.

Q: And what about follow up appointments and therapy?

A: Some of the above quoted pricing includes follow up appointments, therapy and general medications. You will need to research which company you use to see all of what is included in the personalized package you require.

Q: Do you know of anyone that actually has done this, say have a hip replaced or dental work done?

A: Because we have been traveling the world now for over 2 decades, we know quite a few people who have had dental care and serious medical treatment overseas. A tennis friend of ours had his hip replaced in Guadalajara, Mexico for $9,000 two years ago and now plays tennis 5 and 6 times a week. I have personally had root canals and crowns done in Thailand, Mexico and Guatemala.

If we get sick when we travel overseas or have an emergency, we want medical attention as soon as possible. We don’t consider “going home” for treatment. Lots of long term travelers feel the same way. Once you experience the quality of healthcare abroad and the personal treatment that is given to you – and this includes house calls to your home or hotel room - you find that you’re in very good hands and can relax.

Q: You mentioned that you had an accident that required emergency attention. How did that work out?

A: Yes, I unexpectedly had my ring finger de-gloved in Antigua, Guatemala in the autumn of 2012. I received excellent emergency care, and then required a hand surgeon, hyperbaric chamber therapy and two surgeries. After 10 chamber treatments, 11 visits with the plastic surgeon and 2 surgeries, the cost was under $3,000USD. You can see my detailed cost list here.

Q: And I understand that Billy had an issue that landed him in the hospital for a few days. What was that about and how did the costs compare?

A: Billy also had an emergency medical situation that required a midnight drive to the hospital from Panajachel, Guatemala to the capitol city. After 2 nights in the hospital, CT scans, x-rays, blood tests, medicines, translator fees and private doctor visits, the cost was $1,600USD. He also received excellent care.

Q: What about insurance? Will my North American insurance cover me?

A: It depends on your plan. Ours had a large deductible which was doubled for out of network providers so we simply paid out of pocket for these emergencies. However, some Stateside insurance plans are now offering an overseas medical tourism option as a way to save the provider money and they will cover the cost of travel and the medical procedure. Many hospitals overseas advertize that they accept insurance from your home country. So, you must take a look at your health coverage plan, and compare hospitals and medical tourism companies to see which works best for you.

For more information on medical tourism see our Medical Tourism Page.

A National Obsession

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Beverley) — Mon, 06 May 2013 06:00:00 +0000

It is a well-known characteristic of the British psyche that we like nothing more than to complain about the weather. Usually, it is the topic of most conversations and is a national obsession. It has become even worse over recent years, prompted by the ‘wall-to-wall’ coverage on television and radio news. Even so, I still regard weather forecasting as little more than fortune telling, as inaccurate predictions of flooding and drought expose the many deficiencies of this ‘science’. Maybe weather forecasting should be regarded as an art form instead of science?

One would think that once the Brit has become an expat, personally choosing where they should live, that would be the end of the matter. If, for example, the expat chooses to move to Scandinavia, it not would be unreasonable to expect some chilly nights from time-to-time. Thailand suffers from high humidity during parts of the year, which is best avoided if this is likely to be a problem. Northern Spain and France are also likely to be wet for parts of the year, and should make the expat wonder why he left home in the first place, whereas a move to the South of France, Southern Spain or the Canary Islands should make the sun-seeking expat feel ecstatic. Maybe not, after all there is always something else to complain about.

Life in the Canary Islands is very good overall. Not for nothing did the Greek philosopher and geographer, Ptolemy, call them ‘Those Fortunate Isles’. The climate is wonderful, with only a little rain from time to time, which usually takes place in February each year. However, as these islands are just off the coast of Africa, it can get very warm at times, and even what could be described as hot for three to four days, four times each year. This occasional, yet excessive heat and dust is as a result of a ‘calima’ with hot winds and dust blowing from the Sahara. Temperatures can nudge 40 degrees or more and, as the locals are well aware, the best thing is to stay indoors, drink lots of fluids (non-alcoholic), generally take it easy and avoid rushing about. Air conditioning may be used if necessary, but this can bring additional problems, particularly for those with health issues. The golden rule is to be sensible and cautious.

Do all expats and tourists heed this warning? Sadly, many do not. Some will still venture to the beach and wonder whey they are later hospitalised with heat exposure. Others will decide that as it is such a lovely day they will go on a long walk into the mountains. Big mistake, as several unfortunate expats do not live to tell the tale each year after such foolish exploits during high temperatures. The remaining expats, mostly British, will spend their days on Twitter and Facebook, or in local bars, complaining about the ‘excessive’ heat that they are coping with.

Such excesses of heat are, of course, much more serious for farmers and particularly those with livestock, and if the water supply is unable to meet demand. However, many Canarians are well aware of the regularity and sudden intensity of calimas and have had the good sense to build wells and reservoirs to cope with such emergencies, should the water supply fail which, thankfully, is rare. Indeed, builders of new homes on the islands are now obliged to install water reservoirs to provide a buffer for those occasional periods when the main water supply is disrupted.

So, back to the national characteristics of the typical British expat. We just love complaining about the weather, be it too wet, too dry, too humid, too cold or too hot - wherever we may be.

Keeping in Touch

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Beverley) — Mon, 29 Apr 2013 05:00:00 +0000

I was chatting to an elderly couple, Anne and George, in a bar the other day. It is one of the benefits of people watching in local bars; there are just so many interesting people around. They told me that they had lived in Gran Canaria for nearly thirty years, and that although they always intended to remain on the island, they still regarded the UK as home. They return to the UK once or twice a year for a month at a time, and stay with various relatives and friends. However, despite their visits, they complained that they often felt ‘out of touch’ and detached from the UK, and thought that their friends and relatives didn't seem interested in them or their lives anymore, or keep them involved in the way that they used to.

There is an expression that says ‘Absence makes the heart grow fonder’, which is neatly countered by one that says ‘Out of sight and out of mind’. It is of course a human condition that although we all always mean to keep in touch with our family and friends, work and other issues often get in the way of good intentions, and it can take real effort on both sides to keep in touch.

Expats, and particularly those living in sunnier climes, often forget that the folk back home are still battling with their own problems. Stress at work, problems with the kids, and high gas and electricity bills all take their toll. Quite simply, there is often not enough time to call Mum and Dad basking in the sunny Canary Islands or the Costa Blanca. After all, on a really bad day, the thought may sometimes cross their minds that if Mum and Dad hadn't been quite so selfish and moved to the sun, they would be on hand to babysit!

I have always found that with family and best friends, even though we might not have spoken for weeks or even months, time is irrelevant. When we are next in contact, the conversation resumes as if it were only the previous day that we last spoke. However, it is always a good idea, as with all telephone conversations with the folks back home, to be aware of certain sensitivities, such as the weather. Whilst I may be basking in 27 degrees and sipping a cocktail on the sun terrace, I try to be aware that my family and friends may be trying to cope with minus 5 degrees or heavy rain, a clutch of screaming children, as well as the week’s groceries.

Anne went on to tell me that they are always meticulous about phoning family and friends on Sunday afternoons each week, and they couldn't understand why their friends were often not there to answer the phone, or unable to have a lengthy chat. “We like using our videocam on Skype”, she added with a flourish, and I immediately suspected that the problem was - insensitivity to others. I can think of a number of friends and relatives, although happy to use Skype by appointment, would rather not been seen unshaven, or with a towel and curlers in their hair or, in some cases, not without first having a full facial!

Sadly, Anne and George seemed oblivious that other people have busy lives. They too have things to do, people to see, crises to deal with, and rows to be resolved. Some people like the routine of regular calls but, in my experience, asking people when it is best to call is often a good idea or just try to be sensitive to times when people are working, collecting the kids from school, meal times etc. If it is difficult, use other methods of communication instead.

Personally, I prefer to use emails, text messages, WhatsApp, Twitter and Facebook to keep in contact with family and friends. Despite the lack of popularity and some cynicism from the older generation, social media has brought families and friends together. I have renewed friendship with many people since I joined Facebook and, despite the much-publicised negatives of using social networks, I find that it is one of the important factors in remaining a happy and contented expat.

Rocking the Boats

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Beverley) — Mon, 22 Apr 2013 18:50:00 +0000

Hatred, rivalries and jealousies are a feature of human nature that, sadly, can continue for many years. If left unresolved, they become poisonous and destructive with implications that spread far beyond the original squabble. Such rivalries apply to families, countries and even to islands.

For most people, these seven islands in the Atlantic are a haven of peace and tranquillity. There is an illusion that these islands cooperate and work well together as an autonomous community within Spain. The islands benefit from a shared history, culture, mutual understanding, a shared dependency and have common concerns about the economy, unemployment, health and environmental issues, such as exploration for oil off the coast of Africa. However, is this glossy facade really true?

Needless to say, much of this cooperation is really only skin deep. Bitter rivalries between the islands and, in particular, between Gran Canaria and Tenerife have existed for many hundreds of years, peaking during the horrors of the Spanish Civil War. Nowadays, we have only to attend a football match or other major sporting event between the two rivals to witness current manifestations of unresolved bitterness, jealousy and rivalry. Just add a dose of Spanish machismo on a very hot day, and you can imagine the result.

Although Tenerife is the largest island, with the largest population of all the islands, the city of Las Palmas in Gran Canaria is the largest city on any of the islands. Indeed, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is the seventh largest city in all of Spain. In addition, the airport of Gran Canaria dwarfs those on Tenerife, with its large number of national and international flights, as well as being the third largest airport in Spain. Tenerife and Gran Canaria have squabbled ferociously in the past as to which city should be regarded as the capital city of the Canary Islands, Santa Cruz de Tenerife or Las Palmas de Gran Canaria? The outcome was, of course, the usual compromise that they should both hold equal status. There was much anguish about where the islands’ prestigious universities and hospitals should be situated. The answer was to duplicate everything for the benefit of both islands. There is, of course, always a Canarian compromise, but only after much macho shouting, unpronounceable expletives and table banging. It’s just the way that things are done over here.

The current spat between the Mayors of Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Las Palmas de Gran Canaria is another fine example of such a squabble. Las Palmas recently accused Tenerife of ‘cooking the books’, with its inclusion of over 13,000 “ghost residents” in its statistical submission designed, naturally enough, to enhance its quota of funding from the Government. By now we all know that statistics can be interpreted and distorted by politicians to mean anything. Predictably, the Mayor of Tenerife and the President of the Tenerife Cabildo are now accusing the Mayor of Las Palmas of similar evil doings with dark suggestions that they too “may be surprised” if they examine their own statistics too closely. Despite the squabble, and much huffing and puffing, they will eventually kiss and make up - until the next time, that is.

Of course, there is a small independence movement on the islands, which makes impressive and strident claims during local and national elections that the Canary Islands would benefit from being an independent state, completely divorced from Spain. After all, the Scots are trying to do it, so why not the Canary Islands? It is, of course, great rhetoric, but totally ignores the reality that the islands just do not get on with each other, and that they need Spain to keep them from capsizing the other’s metaphorical boats.

The arguments and accusations go on, and will continue just as they have always done. After all, it is much like the love-hate relationship between Britain and France. They may dislike each other intensely, but support each other when the going gets tough.

Continuous Care Overseas: Opening up the Conversation

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Beverley) — Fri, 19 Apr 2013 05:30:00 +0000

Age related concerns

Alicia's Convalescent Home

According to Pew Research, approximately 10,000 Boomers turn 65 every day for the next 16 years. While being 65 isn’t necessarily old, questions about continuing care and assisted living seem to loom on the horizon more largely for us than before.

Navigating through contracts, comparing the often nonrefundable hundreds-of-thousands-of-dollars entrance fees and considering the financial effects of paying $3,000 to $7,000 per month for lifestyle and care costs can be enough to create a super storm of agitation and fear.

Even in the best situations there are compromises of one sort or another to be made. And you may find yourself suffering from guilt over making sure your loved one gets the care they need and balancing that with what you can afford. Unless you have insurance that pays for long term care or the solid wealth to cover these costs, this topic can be a dismal one.

Providing this level of attention for your spouse or family member in your own home also requires sacrifices and involves costs. In the States, if you hire an independent contractor to help out, you could be liable for an injury should they receive one while in your employ.

Consequently, your personal pockets must be deep to cover this possibility or a contract must be signed that explains which party is responsible for what. The complexity level ratchets up quickly.

What can you do?

There are alternatives available, but few people know about them.

Recently I was doing some research on continuing care in Mexico, and I came upon a comparison of nursing home and assisted living care in the Lakeside Expat community of Chapala, Mexico. Here, the cost for these services ranges from $1,000 to $2,000USD per month, depending upon the room you choose, the facility’s location and the amount of care needed.

Now before you dismiss moving to Mexico yourself or transporting a loved one to this country for their final years, take the time to read on.

As with any choice, there is no one-size-fits-all, and even this lower-cost option won’t appeal to the majority of Canadians and Americans. Why? Because the concept of leaving one’s homeland and what is familiar is just too big a leap. But for those whose finances dictate – or for those who want temperate climate, personalized care, a home-like atmosphere and the possibility of having a pet – these Mexican convalescent homes, nursing homes and continuing care facilities offer what you wouldn’t be able to afford up north.

Viable options

La Valentina Seniors Residence & Convalescent Home

Take La Valentina Seniors Residence and Convalescent Home. Here biotherapist owner Martha Benavides provides all-natural organic meals, spa treatments, massage, medical supervision, activities, housekeeping, laundry services and local transportation for $1,600 to $2,000 monthly. There is a full-time nurse on site and apartments come with a mini-fridge and microwave. A community dining room and kitchen are also available.

If you are moderately disabled or a bit more than forgetful, La Casa Azul, owned by gerontologist Dr. Roberto Martinez Ramos, offers 24 hour medical and nursing services. If you can’t bear to part from your pet, you may bring him to live with you.

Alicia’s Convalescent Complex has several levels of care. She tends to those who are ambulatory, offers “middle care” for those who need more assistance and also has facilities for Alzheimers and dementia patients. Fully equipped kitchens, laundry facilities, daily meals, cleaning service, a pool and 24 hour attention are all offered depending on which home you choose. Some rooms have a private bath. Telephone, wireless internet service and local transportation are available.

All of these facilities are in the same price range, and if you would like to know more about them or others in this area of Mexico, you may click on our Care Facilities in Mexico page.

This decision is not one to take lightly, and it impacts you emotionally as well as financially. But just knowing that there are alternatives can ease the pressure you feel. The changes that are required to one’s routine and lifestyle are enough to go through without having feelings of angst and fear over going broke being added to them.

5 Top Tips for Anyone Thinking of Leaving the US to Become an Expat

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Beverley) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 06:00:00 +0000

Each year, many U.S. citizens move to another country for either an extended holiday, to fulfill a work contract or as an immigrant choosing to live in another part of the world. Whether you are a traveler, expat or an immigrant, there are many things to consider before and during your move.

Depending on your destination, there will be new laws, regulations and cultural differences that you will have to understand and accept— not to mention the possibility of having to learn an entirely new language.

For the average traveler, you are likely to experience culture shock, communication difficulties and the feeling of being entirely lost. But for those who are planning longer permanent or permanent stays in a foreign country, you will be faced with new challenges on a daily basis.

There are two categories of people who move overseas for extended stays— expatriates and immigrants. According to GlobalCoachCenter.com, an expatriate is usually someone living in a foreign country for work purposes and they will, at some point, return to their original country of residence. An immigrant is someone who permanently moves to another country to live and has no plans or desires to return home.

Whether you are an immigrant or an expat, there are a few tips you can follow to make your move as successful and enjoyable as possible.

Learn the Language

To be able to immerse yourself in the local culture, it is a good idea to get a basic understanding of the language before you leave home. Once you arrive, take an intensive language course and practice speaking with native speakers to improve understanding of the language and the local customs.

Be Aware of Identity Theft

Many U.S. citizens become easy targets of identity theft when they are living overseas. As an expat, you will be required to provide personal documents, bank account details and copies of your passport on many different occasions and you should be careful about who you are giving this important information to. Also be alert when paying for goods and services online with providers that you haven’t used before. Follow identity theft companies and organizations on Twitter and Facebook, such as Lifelock, for additional tips for traveling and protecting your information.

Sell Your Car

Before you leave the U.S., it is a good idea to sell your car as it will deteriorate in value, you will have to continue to pay for licenses and insurance. Also, if it isn’t driven regularly, it can seize up and have mechanical issues.

Do as the Locals

Often your way of living and daily routine will have to change depending on the cultural and social ways of your new location. However, once you become accustomed to the differences, you will find yourself settling into the country much easier. You will discover some amazing and exciting new experiences that will open your eyes to an entirely new way of living.

Take Care of Your Finances

Some U.S. citizens receive a nasty surprise after living overseas and return home to discover they have a bad credit rating. It is a good idea to seek financial advice on whether or not to close credit accounts, how to access your money while overseas, and how to continue to pay off debts while living abroad. Also remember that expats have to still pay taxes. According to Time.com, the U.S. government continually makes it harder for those who want to renounce their citizenship. An "exit tax" is required which, according to the new Ex-PATRIOT Act, may increase from 15 to 30 percent. Plan ahead of time to catch up with your finances and any extra taxes you may have to pay.

Expat Health Care - are you really covered?

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Beverley) — Mon, 15 Apr 2013 05:00:00 +0000

As I was growing up, my Mum always warned me never to talk about politics, sex or religion at the dinner table. For me, she also added later that I should not talk about vegetarianism or blood sports, as I tended to upset some of our more carnivorous family members and friends with my strongly held views. I usually followed her advice at the dinner table, but with ‘Twitters’, I sense a new feeling of liberation.

Maybe Margaret Thatcher, as well as the National Health Service, should also be added to the list of ‘no-nos’ in order to avoid unnecessary conflict. Both these areas provoke intense discussion, and I have yet to meet someone who does not have a strong opinion of the former, although maybe less are concerned about the latter - that is, until something goes wrong.

Both my parents worked for the UK’s National Health Service; they were proud of it and the part that they played in it during the early years of its establishment in the UK. However, I was always warned by my father to avoid hospital and medical treatment at all costs, and unless it was a matter of life and death. I grew up with the view that private health care was like a parasite on the back of the NHS, and that medical care should be needs based, and not led by an ability to pay. Later, my father would have been horrified to learn that I had, and still have, a private medical health policy, albeit one issued at a very favourable rate by a friendly society when I was an 18-year-old civil servant, and which I still have to this day. I also now have to admit that I have been very grateful for it and the protection that it has given to both my partner and myself.

I first made use of private health care many years ago when my partner became very ill. It was at the time when there was only one MRI scanner covering the whole area where we lived, and this portable unit was trundled around to six hospitals in a large van once each week. The consultant told us that we would have to wait around six months before we could get an appointment for an MRI scan. Sensing our concern, we were asked if we had private medical insurance. I nodded reluctantly and the immediate response was, “Will next Thursday morning be convenient?” I agreed, felt guilty, a traitor to the cause, but also very relieved.

So what does all this have to do with expat life? Well, when we moved to Spain, it was quite common for those under retirement age to rely on the Spanish Health Service, as well as choosing to return to the UK for certain health treatments. This they did by using form E111 and claiming that they were visitors, even though they were permanent residents, and questions were rarely asked. Form E111 was intended to facilitate free and reciprocal health care, in cases of emergency, for visitors to member EU countries. I recall one neighbour proudly telling me that he returned to the UK every six months specifically to get new E111 forms for himself and his extended family, and this is how his entire family had been cared for in his ten years of permanent residence in Spain. Several months of misuse later, our neighbour became very angry when his local doctor quite rightly refused to treat his mother-in-law, and said that the family were not entitled to free health care in Spain, and as they were under retirement age they should seek private medical care instead.

Of course, more recently, and mostly due to the world recession, the reciprocal health care systems in Spain and other European countries have been tightened up considerably. However, it can lead to situations where expats believe that they are covered under the local health service. This may be because they are working, are retired or have a health card to cover their self-employment. However, at a time of crisis, many discover that they are not covered. Although I have received several emails about this issue in recent months, I recently discovered that I too was in the same position, which I will go into further at another time.

Meanwhile, do check that you are covered for free health care in the country where you live, or that you have a private medical insurance in place.

For information about Barrie's books and to read his blogs go to:

www.barriemahoney.com

www.thecanaryislander.com

Barrie's books are also available on Kindle and iBooks

How to Find a Wife in Thailand

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Beverley) — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 05:00:00 +0000

As with any story, there are different sides.

Most men, when they first arrive in Thailand are captivated by the Thai woman's charm and undeniable beauty. They seem subservient, pliable, incessantly pleasant, not to mention exotic. How could any male resist? Most of them don't, and they fall under this overwhelmingly attractive spell.

I have been studying this general state of affairs between the Western male and the Thai female now for several years. Observing, gathering information and tales from both sides, it's been a mild obsession that I hold from afar. Anyone who wanted to make a movie or write novels regarding this phenomenon would have fertile ground to do so.

There is always the first stage, where the Western man, battle fatigued from the war between the sexes in his own country, comes to Thailand. He's probably nursing wounds of various sorts - disappointment that he's not unfathomably rich, perhaps he’s re-covering from a divorce or emotional breakup, or is generally tired of being alone.

Any woman would recognize this weakened state in a man. Some women this condition to be a compelling magnet, and the Thai woman is no different. Like a tiger - sleek, graceful, quietly powerful - she waits. She brings the unsuspecting (or overwhelmingly hopeful) one to her with perhaps a furtive glance. Some utilize a brazen boldness, and approach the man with a sense of unending fun and joyfulness that is water to his parched soul. Never before having felt so attractive, or number one in a woman's life, his chest fills with warmth and gratitude.

He's alive!

And, the hunt is on.

Now before cynicism blocks your ability to hear me out, I ask that you indulge me and read on.

I have seen strong, barrel - chested men brought to their knees in emotional agony when a Thai woman quietly states that “her boyfriend” has returned. "Returned? Returned from where? I thought I was your boyfriend!" they wail... At other times, you can hear these women chatting about finances. One has 500 baht a month coming from this man “to help her family” and 1,000 baht from another. They each tally up the score.

Many Thai women are happy to remain a “girlfriend” so long as they are young, which means under 30. If not married by that time, it is tradition in this culture to believe that the woman's life is over - no chance of recognition, power or children. Sometimes at this point the pursuit and capture revs up a notch.

This is business, wrapped in the cloak of fantasy. Thai women are amazingly good at business.

Men and women both are astonishingly adept at fantasy.

Seems things work well without too many wounds from engagement if both sides maintain a sense of fun with no idea of commitment. Most men approach it this way in the beginning - until their illusion kicks in full force.

In public, having a beautiful woman implied as your companion is a drug to men's ego. Having that same woman serve you, feeding you from her own plate, bowing in a respectful wai as she accepts your gifts increases the addiction. It takes a rare man to see clearly in situations such as these...

I have found myself conflicted between humor and pity when I see these interactions.

My husband always tells me that men are simple creatures. All they want is approval, to be noticed for their efforts (and to have 51% of the pie...!) If Western women only knew this fact, he sighs, the world could be at peace.

I'm kind of an East-West girl myself. I'd be a fool to let noticed skills pass me by without close examination. Perhaps that is why my husband and I can boast of over three decades of marriage together.

The steely strength of the Asian woman wrapped in velvet is an alluring package. That fact is obvious every day here in Thailand. This doesn’t mean I fully understand it. To be perfectly frank, I have numerous Thai women as friends myself. The combination of being delicate yet potent – being brilliant, capable and enduring, yet impoverished, eternally grateful for the smallest gift -- I’m telling you it takes discipline not to fall into the well of my own unconscious fictions.

So, what to do? Take my advice. Give what you want, enjoy what you can, proceed slowly before jumping all the way in, and don’t give up your day job.

About the Authors: Billy and Akaisha Kaderli are recognized retirement experts and internationally published authors on topics of finance and world travel. With the wealth of information they share on their popular website RetireEarlyLifestyle.com, they have been helping people achieve their own retirement dreams since 1991. They wrote the popular books, The Adventurer’s Guide to Early Retirement and Your Retirement Dream IS Possible.

Float like a Butterfly, Sting like a Bee

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Beverley) — Mon, 08 Apr 2013 13:57:00 +0000

As a child growing up in Fenland Lincolnshire, I always seemed to be attacked by wasps, yet only once by a bumblebee, which had the misfortune to be squashed, as I was performing a dramatic handstand on our lawn. I also well remember one of my parents’ friends dying from the effects of a wasp sting, which to an impressionable child didn't exactly endear me to any insect with a sting.

As I grew older, I began to develop a greater respect for bees, as opposed to wasps. I learned that bees very rarely attack unless provoked. However, my hatred of wasps continued to be fuelled as I grew older by the sight of my partner frantically trying to escape a swarm of angry wasps that had been disturbed by his enthusiastic attempts to trim our fast growing hedge with an electric hedge trimmer. Those wasps were certainly angry and expressed their displeasure upon my partner with a vengeance; I have never seen him move so quickly as he did that morning.

Since living in Spain’s Costa Blanca and the Canary Islands, I have never seen a wasp. I began to believe the myth that there are none of these evil insects on the Islands. However, I now understand that I am incorrect in this assumption and, to the contrary, wasps have been singled out as a major threat to native butterfly populations on the Canary Islands. Although reportedly only living in the Western Islands, due to higher humidity levels, wasps are now spreading to the whole archipelago.

As for the humble bee, I had not seen any in our garden until recently when, thanks to a huge and beautiful lavender plant that a friend gave us, is now home to many bees. Yes, I have learned to keep away from them, but also learned to be grateful to the honey bees on these Islands, and for the beautiful Canary Islands’ honey that they produce, as well as their generous contribution to the much loved honey rum, also produced on the island. Local honey certainly has a special and unique flavour, unlike any of the supermarket offerings that I have previously bought in the UK.

I have also learned that the Canary Islands bee is unique to these Islands. The UK bee is striped yellow and black, with a white tip on the abdomen, whereas bees living in the Canary Islands have no yellow bands, and they are just plain old black and white. For an island that is rich in colour, culture and diversity, this is something of an anomaly!

As for wasps, the Government in the Canary Islands is trying hard to control the damage that these insects cause to the beehives on the islands, and is working with beekeepers to locate and restrict the damage that they cause.

As a child, I often used to ask what was the point of wasps? Apart from being given the unconvincing answer of how important they were in clearing away rotting fruit, I remained cynical about their purpose in the greater scheme of things. However, I have recently discovered that a particular species of wasp living in the Canary Islands, commonly known as the Ensign wasp, is actually rather useful. This wasp, which looks a bit like a black spider is relatively harmless to humans, but is a parasite of cockroaches. The females of the species lay their eggs inside the egg cases of cockroaches and the wasp larvae eat the cockroach eggs.

I know that many readers of my ‘Twitters’ are not too keen on my cockroach stories, but this Twitter does have a happy ending. So, if you happen to see an Ensign wasp in the Canary Islands, just welcome it with open arms!

Some People are Gay - Get Over it!

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Beverley) — Mon, 01 Apr 2013 06:00:00 +0000

Gay Pride is always a magnificent spectacle and a huge party in Gran Canaria, and preparations are well underway for this year’s spectacular. After all, Maspalomas Pride is one of the biggest events of its kind in the world. The very first Gay Pride in Maspalomas took place in May 2001, and we have seen the festival become more impressive each year. Thousands of gay men and women, as well as transgendered and bisexual people (LGBT), from across the world visit the island to have fun in the sun, as well as to enjoy the shows and street parade of the big weekend. This year’s Pride will be a time of parties, cultural events and shows. Those tourists and residents who are new to the island, as well as readers of ‘Twitters from the Atlantic’ may well be asking themselves, “What is all the fuss about?”

The first ever Gay Pride parade took place in 1969 and is known as the March on Stonewall. The event started as a protest against discrimination and violence against gay men and women in New York City. Although there have been many advances in equality since those dark days, it is time once again to ask ourselves if anything has really changed, or is it mostly superficial?

Each day we still read and hear of gay men and women who are persecuted for their sexuality. In some countries, gay men and women are still strung up and publicly hanged from cranes as a warning to others. In other countries, the mind games that are played are subtler, but still have the same devastating effect upon men and women who have committed no crime, other than a desire to love and be loved.

History has taught us that during times of financial hardship, poverty and recession, it is always the minority groups who are oppressed. We saw this at its most horrific in Nazi Germany with the persecution of Jews, gypsies, disabled children and gay men and women, where a trip to the gas chambers was seen as “the final solution”.

Have we really learned anything? We are already seeing some repetition of hate crimes towards gay men and women, and others who are not considered as “normal” by the wider population. We know that verbal “gay bashing” is the order of the day for some unholy alliances of churches with doctrines as far apart as Catholics, Muslims and the Mormons. Right wing political parties continue to spread their message of hate in the UK, Spain, France and the US, and polls reveal that these parties are gaining in popularity as a result.

Recent debates about gay marriage in the UK, US, Spain and France have revealed many long held and carefully hidden prejudices that have shaken many gay men and women out of their relative complacency of hard won battles over the generations. The gay marriage issue has made many gay men and women realise that their ‘acceptance’ is only surface deep, and the hatred and disgust shown by many who deny gay men and women the right to love members of their own gender leave us in no doubt that gay equality does not and has never truly existed.

Maybe we have been lulled into a kind of security by crumbs thrown from the political table in the guise of civil partnerships and laws attempting to protect. However, although there have undoubtedly been many improvements in the lives of gay men and women, the attitudes of many remain unchanged, and hypocrisy still continues as recent debates surrounding gay marriage reveal.

Today, Gay Pride events have become an annual ritual all over the world and have grown to include thousands of gay and gay-friendly participants, families and friends of gay, lesbian, transgender and bisexual people, as well as hundreds of spectators. We look forward to and will enjoy Maspalomas Gay Pride as usual; let us all enjoy a well-earned party of celebration. However, we should never forget the hard won fight of those who have gone before us. Let us remain on our guard, and continue to be aware of the on going challenges.

The Banana Fights Back

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Beverley) — Mon, 25 Mar 2013 06:30:00 +0000

I was pleased to read a recent news article commenting that Asda is the first UK supermarket to sell Canarian bananas through 230 of its UK stores. This initiative represents the first time in recent history that bananas from the Canary Islands are sold commercially outside the usual markets in Spain and Portugal. Other UK supermarkets, including Marks and Spencer, are also reportedly examining a similar scheme.

Until recently, I had not been aware that the carbon footprint of the banana, as well as other tropical fruit and vegetables, is very high. As well as Canary Islands bananas being a better quality and more flavoursome variety, Asda is also aiming to reduce the banana’s carbon footprint, and will therefore cancel its Central American imports in favour of bananas from the Canary Islands. Conveniently, importing a better banana to the UK also comes with added benefits, making good commercial, as well as environmental sense.

In future, Canarian bananas destined for Asda stores will be shipped to Peninsular Spain and then transported by road to ripening centres in the UK. This will mean that the journey will take just four days compared with twenty-four days for produce from Central America, which is a reduction in transportation time of over 80 per cent. As a result, the fruit will be much fresher by the time that it reaches British stores. Canarian bananas will be sold under the well-known Fyffes brand in the UK.

It is appropriate that the UK throws its full weight behind the Canarian banana. After all, it was in the 19th Century that an Englishman living in the Canary Islands spotted a business opportunity from bananas. His company imported the dwarf banana from the Far East and grew it on the islands. The company exported the bananas to England, and by 1878 many cargoes of bananas were leaving the Canary Islands for the UK.

Few people nowadays realise the impact that bananas from the Canary Islands made to the economy of the UK. Bananas were once unloaded in the very centre of what is now London’s vibrant financial district, which takes its name from the No. 10 Warehouse of the South Quay Import Dock, built in 1952 for the Canary Islands’ fruit trade. This grey glass, concrete and steel paradise proudly retains the name Canary Wharf to this day.

As holiday makers to the Canary Islands will already know, it is the warm sea currents that give the Canary islands a sub tropical climate. Despite the popularity of the islands as an all year round tourist destination, it is the banana that is still the islands’ most important product after tourism. Away from the sun-drenched beaches, extensive banana plantations dominate the landscape of the archipelago. The varieties currently grown in the Canary Islands are dwarf bananas, which are smaller, creamier, sweeter, and have a more intense flavour than the varieties produced in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Personally, I much prefer the Canary Islands banana to any of the other tasteless varieties, but then I guess I am biased. Do try a real Canary Islands’ banana for yourself and you will see what I mean. Incidentally, local banana flavoured rum is also delicious, as well as being made from local bananas!

Can Expats Gain Immunity to Financial Crises?

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Beverley) — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 05:00:00 +0000

Japan, Ireland and Britain are three of the most indebted nations in the world right now: these nations’ citizens have suffered a 20 year economic stagnation (Japan), a halving of real estate values (Ireland) and an unrelenting erosion of their wealth, (Britain)…

And yet it’s nations like Spain, Italy and Greece which have hit the headlines far harder, as their citizens take to the streets and protest and riot against the financial hardships they too are facing.

Elsewhere: in America “20% of all children under the age of 18, [are] unable to meet, let alone be guaranteed coverage of, basic needs” according to PovertyinAmerica.mit.edu. And in Australia, another first world and allegedly rich nation, one in eight Australians are living in poverty according to a report by welfare organization the Australian Council of Social Service (ACOSS).

It seems that the financial crisis really has gone global: it wasn’t just the media hyping the stats for the sake of their headlines. So is anywhere immune to the fallout and can expats gain immunity to financial crises?

I believe that by maintaining a perpetual traveler approach to your life, it is feasible that you can hop from one near-bankrupt nation to the next. Of course to do so, ironically, one needs a certain degree of wealth to afford the next plane ticket and rental deposit. However, most expats adopt a global attitude within months of living overseas, and so I believe it is possible to be able to roll ahead of the punches and adapt to survive as you move from one nation to the next.

Successful and happy expats are those people who embrace the challenges as well as the opportunities that a new life presents them with. They relish establishing a new life overseas. It’s these expats who can quite literally adapt to survive financial crises by looking ahead, finding new nations offering new opportunities, and moving to embrace them.

However, careful ongoing management of one’s personal financial status for the preservation (as well as the enhancement) of one’s wealth is critical. Fortunately expats have options and alternatives open to them that people living in the UK right now, for example, don’t.

According to ShelterOffshore.com: “In recorded economic history, every single country with debts as big as ours [Britain’s] – every single one – has suffered a devastating economic collapse. There are NO exceptions.”

If you’re a British person resident in Britain right now you’re looking down the barrel of the same gun Argentineans got blown apart by in 2001.

If you’re an expat resident in Britain right now you have a choice. Get your money out of the British system and safely stowed abroad.

And for all expats everywhere, you have to take as global an approach to the consideration of your money’s management as you do to where you call home.

Don’t believe your money will be safe in one nation. Don’t believe it will be safe in one bank. Nation’s governments and banks destroy economies and take your life savings out without a backward glance.

Look around at where you can securely stow your money, and never be complacent about how and where it’s managed. Just as you need to maintain a perpetual traveler attitude to life if you want to avoid the fallout from financial crises, so you need to keep a perpetual eye on your money’s health.

Rhiannon Davies writes for Shelter Offshore, the leading online expatriate resource with living abroad, offshore investment and property abroad information channels.

5 Money Saving Travel Tips

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Beverley) — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 05:00:00 +0000

Billy and Akaisha Kaderli traveling on a budget

Knowing your particular traveling style can make your adventures to exotic locations run more smoothly. Each style brings advantages and disadvantages; do you know yours?

If you are a Vacationer with limited travel time, you will probably be staying in more expensive hotels and eating most of your meals out in tourist-priced restaurants. Organized tours with a paid guide will appeal to you instead of venturing out on your own by taking local transport and being armed with a personal travel book and your own maps.

If you are a Visitor, you might have a little longer time frame in which to enjoy a place and perhaps you have found that you like to do more things independently. You probably speak some survival phrases in the native tongue and will choose to dine in local eateries.

As a Veteran Traveler, you will have no time limit on your travels other than the country’s visa restrictions. It is likely that you have a working knowledge of the local language and an individual traveling style based on internal motivation. A Veteran will be more inclined to hire a private driver, shop in the local markets for supplies and is not afraid of eating native specialties sold by street vendors.

No matter which description suits you, the following tips can save you money while on the road.

Choose lower cost destinations like Eastern Europe, Latin America, or Asia. You will get more bang for your buck in every category such as housing, transportation, food and entertainment.

Travel during low season to take advantage of the bargains which hungry vendors and hotels offer at these times.

Go to the local markets and grab some food to make your own meals. Use the kitchen in your rented apartment or in your hostel. Make peanut butter sandwiches to bring with you, have some fruit and pastry for breakfast or carry trail mix to snack on during the day. In this way, you won’t need to go out for each meal.

Use public transport to get to your destinations or if you are traveling with others, hire a private driver and share the cost.

Avoid buying souvenirs unless they are lightweight and small. The more you purchase, the heavier your bags are. You could find that you must pay a fee for checked luggage or need an extra bag all together.

If you employ these time-tested tips you will find your savings will be considerable, allowing you to experience more on your trip.

About the Authors: Billy and Akaisha Kaderli are recognized retirement experts and internationally published authors on topics of finance and world travel. With the wealth of information they share on their popular website RetireEarlyLifestyle.com, they have been helping people achieve their own retirement dreams since 1991. They wrote the popular books, The Adventurer’s Guide to Early Retirement and Your Retirement Dream IS Possible.

Living in the Canary Islands: The Cafe Bar

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Beverley) — Mon, 18 Mar 2013 14:34:00 +0000

“I really do fancy a cup of coffee. My feet are killing me!” I complained to my partner, as we trudged around the narrow streets of a very pretty village that we had recently discovered.

“There’s a cafe bar over here”, he replied. Pointing to the large open doorway, I could see several very comfortable looking chairs and two large sofas and a few small tables. “It looks clean enough, lets give it a try.”

We wandered inside. It looked very homely with some lovely photos and pictures of the village, and people working in it. There was one beautiful, large photo of fishermen pulling in their catch at the harbour we had just visited.

We sat on one of the comfortable sofas and eventually an old lady came over to us. She looked a little ancient to be still working, but she beamed a broad toothless smile, and we exchanged pleasantries. I ordered two coffees and asked if she had any croissants, as we had not had any breakfast. The old lady shook her head, but indicated that she could serve us with warm bread rolls, butter and marmalade instead. I nodded gratefully, and the old lady smiled, but warned me that it may take a few minutes to prepare. We were in no hurry and were pleased to have a rest. Suddenly, the elderly waitress appeared again, smiled her toothless grin, and left what appeared to be two large brandies.

We sat and relaxed. The cafe bar was very pleasant and I admired the detail of the artefacts, ornaments, photos and pictures from a bygone age. Photos of camels pulling ploughs, angelic looking, freshly scrubbed children grouped together outside the local church after their first communions, as well as many photos of fishermen long gone that adorned the walls. This little cafe bar was indeed a treasure, and we decided that we would be visiting it again very soon.

I was puzzled to see the waitress put on a shawl, pick up a basket and then disappear out of the door. She returned shortly afterwards with what, I assumed, were fresh rolls, which appeared a few minutes later, deliciously warm and placed tastefully in a basket, together with a small pot of butter, a freshly opened jar of jam, and a small daisy-like yellow flower to add the finishing touch. We thanked the waitress and told her how much we appreciated fresh rolls for breakfast. She beamed her toothless smile with pleasure, and wandered off into the kitchen.

The coffee was some of the best that we had ever tasted, and the rolls were delicious, as was the apricot jam. As I was driving, my partner polished off my brandy as well, and seemed much happier for it. We took our time, and eventually the elderly waitress positioned herself on one of the armchairs at the side of the bar, watching us carefully, smiling her toothless smile as she continued with what looked like crocheting a large shawl.

Eventually, it was time to leave. I beckoned to the waitress for the bill. She shook her head “Nada”, she replied, which means “nothing”. I tried again to ask for the bill, but the old lady became agitated and shook her head vigorously, followed by a babble of Spanish that I could not understand. I managed to leave a note under the saucer before we left and we thanked the elderly lady profusely for looking after us so well and assured her that we would visit her again soon. She grinned her toothless smile, nodded and waved as we left the cafe bar.

Later, during the day we met up with a friend for lunch and I told him about the very friendly cafe bar, the elderly lady and the story about how she went to the bakery to get us fresh, warm rolls.

Our friend listened, looked puzzled and then suddenly roared with laughter. “Tell me again where this bar is?” he demanded. “Did you notice a car parked inside?”

We told him that we had noticed an ancient car parked inside and at the far end of the large room. We had thought it a little strange, but assumed that it was all part of the 1950s decor. “The whole place had a ‘Cuban’ feel about it,” I declared.

When our friend had finally finished laughing, he told us that our “Lovely little cafe bar” where we had so enjoyed our coffee, rolls and brandy that morning was, in fact, the private home of Marie-Carmen. It was not a cafe bar after all, but Marie-Carmen’s integral garage, which she used as her sitting room!

Why Money Matters More Abroad

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Beverley) — Fri, 15 Mar 2013 05:00:00 +0000

One of the best aspects of a new life abroad is the simple fact that so much about your new life will be different. This can bring challenges of course, but of the utmost importance it brings excitement and opportunity. It’s why so many people who only set out to travel overseas, or live abroad for a short period of time, get bitten by the travel bug and spend more time in different nations than they first perhaps planned.

One of the key differences that a new life abroad can throw up is how money is managed overseas. This can be a challenge for any expatriate. For example, a lot of money in your new nation could be a fraction of what you’re used to earning. You will need to readjust how you think about money and the management of it when you move abroad.

Initial consideration should be given to how you will fund your new life overseas. Perhaps you’re retiring abroad and have a pension to rely upon. Great! But what’s the purchasing power of your pension in your chosen nation? You might live in an expensive nation already…but you could be shocked to discover that with the erosion of your currency’s value when you transfer it overseas, high inflation in your new nation or just the fact that the cost of living abroad is much higher, you could discover you’re poorer than you thought if you move to the ‘wrong’ country.

Before you move overseas make sure you’re comfortable with the cost of living in your new nation, and that you will have the means to support yourself, or else that you have access to employment options that pay sufficiently well to allow you to afford to live overseas. Forward planning will prevent any expensive shocks.

You then need to give some consideration to how you access and manage your money abroad. Your old bank account won’t be much use if you’re moving countries. You’re probably likely to want to open a bank account locally in your new nation, so make sure you know what identification and paperwork you will need to support your application for a bank account. Don’t be left without access to your cash particularly in the early days and weeks as you will be spending quite a lot to get your new life established.

Later on you might want to start thinking about how you can make the most of your time abroad from a financial point of view. Lots of expats find that actually the cost of living abroad is less, they perhaps earn a little more or simply have access to a wider range of savings and investment options allowing them to get more from their saved wealth.

Approach the international investment of your money cautiously however. Rules governing advisors in different nations aren’t necessarily as robust as you would expect. What’s more, you need to look carefully at any nation where you hold significant sums of money to make sure they have investor protection schemes in place to protect your wealth in the event that a bank or finance house defaults or collapses.

Entrust your money’s management only to professionals who work to the highest ethical standards and the strictest codes of practice for the global financial services industry, and whose advisors are all qualified to the highest international standards. Make sure such advisories only recommend solutions from leading banks and financial institutions that are based in secure, well-regulated financial jurisdictions.

About the author: Rhiannon Davies writes for Swiss Regent, the premier expatriate financial advisory. At Swiss Regent we work to the highest ethical standards and the strictest codes of practice for our industry, and our advisers are all qualified to the highest international standards. They only recommend solutions from leading banks and financial institutions that are based in secure, well-regulated financial jurisdictions. Receive a free, no obligation and comprehensive pension analysis with our QROPS Income Design Service.

Your Future, Your Choice

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Beverley) — Thu, 14 Mar 2013 06:30:00 +0000

In pursuing your dream of financial independence, you will find that some things will support you in this quest, and others by nature will be obstructions.

Dream killers

If you are afraid to stand out from the crowd with either your opinions or actions, are resistant to trying something new, have a consuming need for safety or an uncontrolled desire to spend, these above mentioned perspectives won’t allow you to break free from the mundane. If you allow Groupthink or peer pressure to manage your affairs, have a life filled with all the things you “can’t do,” and have a penchant for believing the negative news on TV and websites, you won’t find the motivation or energy to move towards a life of your own choosing. It will “seem” that everything is conspiring against you and holding you back.

Anger, jealousy and other self-limiting emotions won’t provide you with the ticket to your freedom. You have to break out and stand apart from those constricting and narrowing points of view.

Otherwise, your dream life will never happen.

The Motivators

As childlike or unsophisticated as it may sound to you, your passion for a dream and the persistence you apply to making that dream a reality is the fire that will get you there. Not everyone is born wealthy, has a top notch education, or a supportive family structure. How you apply yourself to your future makes all the difference in the world.

Couple this with knowing who you are and what matters to you. Being honest with yourself and with those whom you love and the willingness to learn from mistakes is invaluable. Use any miscalculations as stepping stones, not as reasons to hold you back or to never forgive yourself. If you feel that you have bungled something, make a new choice or an adjusted one and move in the direction where you want to go.

This way or that way?

With every decision there is a “Y” in the road. Take it! There is no wrong decision and if your choice does not pan out make another. Don’t be made powerless by indecision or the “paralysis of analysis.” Learn and move forward. Drop what doesn’t work - and move forward again.

Be open minded to options and opportunities that present themselves and be willing to try something new to make your plan come to fruition. Consider exotic combinations and out-of-the-box solutions to any challenge you might encounter. Let’s face it. Most people do what is expected of them and follow a bland plan. They are not used to considering a variety of aspects which can lead to novel ideas and creative solutions. And, I doubt they are reading our website and books.

Be YOU-nique. Utilize your personal creativity and hold the opinion that there is enough – for you and for everyone. If you believe in limitation and lack, that will be what you look for, and we guarantee you will find exactly that.

Profitability begins within – try these suggestions

Find someone who is successful in ways that embody your dreams and learn from them. Study the terms utilized in the world of finance, and work with tools and calculators to analyze your monetary situation in all areas of living. Today with a wide variety of information available on the internet, there is no reason you cannot become your own financial advisor.

Having a spouse or partner who is on the same goal-and-financial page as you are, is an invaluable asset. This puts two of you going in the same direction instead of fighting each other at every turn. A compatible partnership will provide you with double the brain power, enhanced ability to save or invest and increased motivation. Plus, it will be more fun!

Be willing to be inspired. Cultivate healthy attitudes and perspectives of your future that open you up, not close you down. Continuously choose to move in the direction of your dreams and make them happen.

Your future is YOURS. Don’t give it away to anyone. Believe in yourself and make a commitment to a life that YOU want to live. Persistence and determination can take you anywhere.

Follow YOUR Dreams.

The Unsuspecting Expat

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Beverley) — Mon, 11 Mar 2013 11:36:00 +0000

A story about a Swedish couple, Mona and Erik, who have visited Gran Canaria 70 times in the last 46 years and recently received an award from the island’s government, caught my attention this week. This couple’s story will jog the memories of many expats on the island, as well as expats across the world, as to the reasons why they have settled in a particular destination. For this 80-year-old Swedish couple, the draw of a welcoming, healthy and warm climate, as well as tennis and long, leisurely evenings spent with good friends has ensured their return to their favourite destination time and time again. Indeed, the couple regard Gran Canaria as their second home.

I remember this feeling so well. Many years ago, my partner and I arrived for a one-week holiday on the island, and immediately felt at home. I still remember the dread of returning to the UK and the deep longing of wanting to remain on the island forever, as I was forcibly propelled up the aircraft steps for the dreaded flight back home to the UK. A few weeks later, we returned to the island again, and again. Each year, wherever our holiday plans took us, we would always ensure that we returned to the island for as many visits as we could afford. Eventually of course, it was a deep longing to find work and to make our permanent home on the island, which seemed impossible at the time. However, hard work and good fortune eventually brought us to our favourite destination.

I know of many people who have a deep sense of longing for a particular destination. It may be Spain’s Costa Blanca, the South of France, Portugal’s Algarve or maybe Thailand. It is almost as if we feel that we belong in a certain place rather than where we currently live through an accident of birth. The symptoms are easy to spot and we have many friends who seem to have caught this particular disease. It usually begins with a deep sense of longing to return to a particular destination, and the feeling, which is very hard to explain, that you are almost being drawn there. Regular holidays are just the start, and it may be that the ‘holiday romance’ repeated time and time again with a particular destination is all that is required. No commitment, no ties, just a sensuous flirtation and a brief affair.

However, if this ‘holiday affair’ evolves into several visits each year, staying at and visiting the same favourite places, eating in the same familiar restaurants, regularly collecting local magazines and newspapers “Just to see what the cost of housing is over here”, the unsuspecting expat should be extremely careful as these are just some of the early symptoms of the unsuspecting expat. The danger signs are very real when they begin regularly looking at the property advertisements in newspapers and magazines. This usually extends quickly into peering longingly into the windows of estate agents, or possibly going inside to ask a few questions. Once they find that perfect spot by the beach, in the mountains, by the lake or wherever they may seek their own personal paradise, they are hooked. The best thing to do is to finally admit that they have caught the disease and just do whatever it takes to make it happen and begin to live their dream. Recognise the symptoms?

Although our Swedish octogenarian couple maintain a home in Sweden and visit the island regularly for holidays each year, it is clear that they are islanders in all but name. Mind you, Erik also pointed out that they come from Scandinavia where they live about 24 degrees below zero ... and it is very cold. “Believe me,” he went on to say, “here we have a wonderful climate with a very friendly and nice people.” I guess that with temperatures that cold there is a major incentive to escape to the sun.

Cycling in the Canaries

noreply@blogger.com (Susan Beverley) — Mon, 25 Feb 2013 06:00:00 +0000

As a child, I really hated cycling, which was mainly because of the two-mile cycle ride to the bus stop each morning. I know that memories play tricks on us, but it always seemed to be raining. Added to this, being the third child with a long gap between my eldest brother and myself, I inherited an old bone shaker of a bike. I am sure it was of the pre-war variety, black, boring and solidly built to last a lifetime. I guess it is already in a museum somewhere, standing right next to a Penny Farthing. Sadly, it was nothing like the shiny new one that my best friend, Jeremy, had been given for Christmas.

Living in the Canary Islands, I am now all for two-wheeled transport. The Tour de France, the Olympics, as well as cycling heroes such as Bradley Wiggins and Lance Armstrong (well, maybe forget the last one) have all added to the culture that present day cycling can be health promoting, fun and cool - all at the same time. It is fascinating to see the range of designer gear that one is supposed to wear before even starting to pedal nowadays. Sexy, brilliant coloured lycra, snazzy helmets, gloves and water bottles all add to the pleasure of present day cycling. Thankfully, long gone are the days when a brilliant yellow oilskin draped across head and top half of the body and cycle, passed for the latest in fashion for cyclists, as well as providing a small amount of wind and rain protection. Exactly what was the point of having a dry shirt and blazer, when my trousers, socks and shoes remained soaking wet all day?

Cycling is very popular with German and Scandinavian visitors to the island, most of whom bring their cycles with them. A determined lot they are too, and many can be seen peddling furiously along the busy roads of Gran Canaria in packs just after breakfast. I am told that many are practicing for the various races and events that they will be entering throughout the year, and cycling in almost guaranteed island sunshine for much of the year helps to increase their levels of fitness for the big races. However, all is not well for residents and non-cycling visitors to the island who have to cope with the hundreds of cycling enthusiasts that visit each year.

I can guarantee that on most mornings when I attempt to drive from my home after breakfast, I will encounter a group of twenty or thirty cyclists peddling furiously ahead of me. It would be fine if they cycled in small groups, either singly or even in pairs, but in recent weeks I have witnessed many a close shave with cars, buses and lorries, when cyclists are bunched together in groups of twenty or thirty cycles, often cycling three abreast and sometimes even holding arms or shoulders. Now, I am all for demonstrating affection for those that we love, but is it really necessary to hold hands on a busy road when cycling?

To cyclists visiting the island, may I suggest that you select some of the less busy roads, and maybe head into the mountains where you will get real exercise peddling up the steep inclines. It will be even more health promoting, but just be careful of the steep bends on the way down. Also, however much you adore your cycling partners, is it really necessary to stay glued to their backsides for the whole journey, despite their appealing lycra? Holding arms and indeed hands, is also very nice, but not on a busy road with cars, lorries and buses bombing along at 80 km/h plus. Finally, do split up a little, into groups of two or three. Forget that you are pack animals, but just prearrange a get together at a bar somewhere later during the day. You can do all the group bonding that you want to then.

Finally, make no mistake, we really do love seeing you and your euros over here, but with a little thoughtfulness before you pedal away into the sunset, do remember that you will stand an even better chance of entering those competitions back home in one piece, as well as returning to see us again next year.