Happy New Year from ExpatFinder.com

2011 has been an exciting year, playing witness to an even greater surge of expats moving around the world. No matter where you spent your year, it was impossible to miss some of the year’s most exciting news.

Here, ExpatFinder brings you the top stories from this year and wishes you a safe and happy New Year!

South Sudan Becomes the Newest Country

On July 9, 2011, South Sudan officially became the world’s youngest country. Following a civil war between the North and South which claimed the lives of over a million people on both sides, a recent peace agreement paved the way for South Sudanese independence. Sudan itself became the first country to officially recognize its southern neighbor.

Read more here.

Libyan Government Falls

A year of reforms saw Libya included, with protesters storming the streets and demanding the dictator Gaddafi to be put to death. With rebels and government leaders clashing over months, the world watched as the country finally fell to rebels and Gaddafi was found.

Read more here and here.

Earthquake and Tsunami in Japan

This year the world was witness to one of the worst natural disasters in recent history, a terrible earthquake shook Japan in March, which led to a tsunami which claimed the lives of thousands of residents in the country. Followed up by a nuclear reactor failure and with thousands of forced evacuations, Japan is still working on the cleanup and bringing the nuclear reactor down.

Read more here and here.

The World Reaches 7 Billion People

October 31st, 2011 marked the honorary date the world reached 7 billion inhabitants, up from 6 billion only a few years back. The world population is now expanding at a faster pace than ever before- in fact, it took several hundred years to reach a population of 2 billion after the first billion, but only a few years to add another billion now. This raises many moral issues the next generation may have to deal with.

Read more here.

Osama bin Laden Found

On May 1st, 2011, the United States announced that Osama bin Laden had been found and killed after a manhunt lasting many years. This news inspired a sense of confidence not only among Americans but from around the world.

Read more here.

Italian Prime Minister Resigns

It was amid cheers that Italian Prime Minster Silvo Berlusconi resigned in November 2011. With Italy falling to the Eurozone crisis, spectators had long been demanding the resignation of the scandal plagued minister. Although it has yet to be seen how the new PM will handle the job, hopes are high for the Italian residents.

Read more here.

Royal British Wedding

An estimated 2 billion people tuned in to watch the biggest royal wedding since that of the late Princess Diana. Prince William has taken Kate Middleton, a commoner with no royal pedigree, as a wife, and the world has gotten involved. Inspiring crowds around the world as they travel from place to place, the new royal couple are still in the limelight.

Read more here.

US Presidential Debate Opens

2012 will see the next Presidential election open in the US, and that means that 2011 has been busy finding the perfect candidate and beginning the campaign. While it seems certain Obama will run for reelection for the Democrats, the Republican party has been warring within itself. With some candidates more suited to public speaking than others, watching the debates has taken over the US, and many other countries have begun curiously watching as well.

Read more here.

Arab Spring

Libya wasn’t the only country to overthrow an unjust ruler in the past year. In fact, public uprisings have become so common within the Arab world in the last year that there is even a new term, “Arab Spring”, denoting the revolts against unfair governments that citizens have finally begun to take a stand against. Egypt, Libya, and Tunisia all saw new leaders come into power, and uprisings and new laws have taken effect in Syria, Yemen, Kuwait, Oman, Lebanon, Morocco and Jordan. There are ongoing protests in Iraq and Algeria.

Read more here.

Kim Jong-Il Dies

Pyongyang announced the death of their “Dear Leader”, communist dictator Kim Jong-il, only a few days before Christmas. Sparking an outpouring of tears from citizens in the country and a new leader put in his place, most other countries were much more optimistic following the news. We have yet to see where Kim Jong-un’s leadership will take the country.

Read more here.

Other Notable News:

Eurozone crisis worries EU member countries as they handle bailouts and debt across the Union.

US formally ends war in Iraq and calls thousands of soldiers home.

Steve Jobs dies at age 56 after a long fight with cancer.

Massive floods in Thailand threaten the lives of thousands, continue a slow spread for months.

Terrorist in Norway causes mass panic and takes the life of dozens of people.

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Photo credit to:

http://www.flickr.com/photos/fieldreports/5811357917/

NationalGeographic.com

UnofficialNetworks.com

DailyMail.co.uk

Telegraph.co.uk

Best Christmas Lights for Expat Christmas Lovers

Expats around the world are beginning their Christmas preparations in a number of ways, from heading back home for a well deserved Christmas vacation with the family to embracing the local culture and hosting a Christmas Day BBQ in Australia.

No matter where you find yourself this 25th of December, it’s likely you’ll be surrounded by thousands of Christmas lights. These decorations are set up in cities from New York to Paris, Singapore, Canberra and more.

For the real holiday thrill seekers, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best Christmas lights around the world to brighten your day.

Vilnius, Lithuania

New York, New York

Nesbyen, Norway

Luces, Spain

Boston, Massachusetts

Singapore

Seoul, South Korea

Step outside this holiday season and enjoy the light displays near you. Make sure you tell us about your favorite light shows and Christmas lights!

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Photos from:

http://web.me.com/altaloman/VoyagerVision/Blog___VIS/Entries/2010/12/18_Best_Christmas_Lights_Around_the_World.html

http://www.ratestogo.com/blog/best-christmas-light-displays/

http://hasayang.wordpress.com/2011/11/15/preview-of-singapore-christmas-light-up-2011/

Extreme Sports Around the World

5. Rock Climbing- Meterora, Greece

Meterora is more than just a rock climbers haven- it’s also a religious site for Eastern Orthodox monasteries, second in importance only to Mount Athos. You will find six monasteries on these cliffs, and after such a life changing experience that may be just where you’d like to go. Meterora is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, so for the extreme traveler you can mark two things off your list; both rock climbing in one of the best ranked and beautiful sites in the world and a visit to a culturally significant area- just make sure you bring the proper equipment and experience, these rocks are anything but easy.

4. Bungee Jumping- The Last Resort, Nepal

Not for those with a fear of heights, bungee jumping is becoming one of the most sought after high intensity sports around the world. Thrill seekers are arriving in droves to The Last Resort in Nepal to take on the 525 ft (160m) dive from the suspension bridge crossing the Bhote Kosi River. One of the highest possible sites for bungee jumping in the world, you will have plenty of time to consider if this was the right choice as you fly through the air.

3. Paragliding- Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

For a more relaxing extreme sport, one can try paragliding. Although just as exhilarating, paragliding allows the enthusiast to hang around and admire the views, something you’ll find in abundance in Rio de Janeiro. With stunning colors and gorgeous plant life, you won’t find a better spot to try out your wings than in this South American gem of a city. Thankfully, rather than simply floating on the breeze as in parasailing, paragliding will allow you to control your trip back down to Earth.

2. Skydiving- Hawaii, USA

Although skydiving has become a well known extreme sport around the world, the excitement isn’t any less. Rather, now the options for where to take advantage of the thrills has expanded to a variety of wonderful locations around the world. People come to Hawaii for a variety of reasons, from the relaxing beaches and great food to the night life and entertainment, but one major draw is also the skydiving. Surrounded by water, skydiving from Hawaii offers some of the best views in the world to those seeking thrills, no matter if you are a beginner or expert.

1. Scuba Diving- The Great Barrier Reef, Australia

The Great Barrier Reef has been known as the best spot for scuba diving around the world since the sport began. Despite how long explorers have been traveling for a glimpse, the beauty is just as great now. If you are planning a trip to Australia, planning an excursion to the Reef for some diving is necessary. Although a slower paced adventure compared to some others, sites and excitement can be had here that could never be experienced anywhere else in the world.

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http://amazingdata.com/the-most-spectacular-free-rock-climbs
http://www.nowpublic.com/last-resort-nepal-foot-bridge-resort-160-meter-above-gorge
http://kumutu.com/rio-adventures
http://www.dailyscubadiving.com/diving-in-great-barrier-reef-australia
http://www.kenrockwell.com/nikon/d200/d200-skydive.htm

Best Education Countries for Expat Kids

Before a parent takes a job abroad, there are more considerations to go into the decision than simply the pay package. This is especially true for expats who will be moving abroad with children, as a child’s education will not stop just because they are outside the home country. We have already covered the best countries ranked for adult expats, and today we will be taking a look at the countries with the best educational opportunities for expat kids.

Some countries are known for having high standards of education, and others do not have such educational structure in place, so knowing a child will have the advantages of a good schools is a major factor. Here are the best countries ranked as having the highest composite educational scores in a variety of areas; math, reading, and science.

10. Estonia

Estonia is a newcomer on the top schools list, though the scores of local students speak for themselves. Ranking 10th in Reading worldwide, 11th in Math and 6th in Science, expat children living in Estonia are sure to get a top-tier education to prepare them for any chosen career. Although there may be a language barrier in local schools for expat kids, international schools in Estonia are a perfect option to getting your children a highly ranked English education abroad.

9. Switzerland

Switzerland is known for much more than just it’s schooling system, and expats living in Swtizerland routinely rank it as one of the top expat destinations worldwide. However, for children in Switzerland, it isn’t all fun and games. With students ranked 11th in Reading worldwide, 3rd in Math and 10th in Science, there will also be plenty of hard work involved. A multicultural country, students in Switzerland will not only have access to the best teachers and facilities in the world, but choices galore in languages and arts for a well rounded education.

8. Belgium

While it isn’t an overlooked country by any means for expats, living and working in Belgium means having top-tier skills for expat parents. Luckily, with those skills you also open up your children to one of the best ranked school systems in the world. Ranking 8th in both Reading and Math worldwide and 15th in Science, Belgium provides a well-rounded education in all the areas necessary for future success in higher education.

7. Netherlands

The Netherlands is a top choice for expats seeking a good lifestyle of food and entertainment, but what may also be surprising to parents moving with their children- they also have one of the best educational systems in the world. With students ranking 7th in Reading, 6th in Math and 8th in Science worldwide, both parents and children can experience the best life has to offer in the country. With Dutch as the country’s main language, one of the many accredited English international schools would be a great option for expat kids.

6. Australia

Australia is the top expat destination in the world for many reasons, including its focus on education. Parents know they can experience a good life in a safe environment with plenty of entertainment and a good package while also sending their children to one of the best international schools in the world. Ranked 6th in Reading, 9th in Math and 7th in Science worldwide, Australia provides high quality education to both public and private students, a cost saving reason parents can trust Australian schools for their children.

5. Japan

Japan has been looked up to as a country of academic excellence for years, and even today holds a high position as the 5th best country in the world for getting a good education. With students ranked 5th in Reading, 4th in Math and 2nd in Science worldwide, Japan offers comprehensive classes designed to get the best out of every student. If your children speak no Japanese, there are dozens of great international schools teaching in a variety of languages your children can attend.

4. New Zealand

New Zealand has spent the last several decades building itself up into one of the best countries in the world offering the best academic opportunities for students. Ranked 4th for Reading, 7th for Math and 4th for Science in the world, New Zealand offers and English speaking environment where pupils receive high quality attention and classes either in public or international schools. Despite the laid back environment in the country, education is taken seriously, and your child can definitely benefit.

3. Canada

The best ranked English speaking country for education in the world, Canada has set high standards for their educational programs- and continually meets and exceeds them. Students in Canada rank 3rd for Reading, 5th for Math and Science across other countries. All courses offer strong teachers and are set up for student success. As both public and international schools are English speaking and highly ranked in comparison to the rest of the world, you can rest easy placing your child in any of its schools.

2. Finland

Education is not what one generally thinks of when considering Finland, but as expat parents who have moved to the icy country have realized, they have one of the best educational environments in the world. Students in Finland rank 2nd for Math and Reading in the world and 1st in Science, no small feat. Strong programs involve children in every aspect of their learning and push for all students to be their best. International schools where English is spoken are a great option for expat kids, sure to boost their grades and motivation.

1. South Korea

The number one country in the world for education, South Korea boasts of impressive stats. Students in South Korea rank 1st worldwide for Reading and Math and 3rd for Science, showing just how dedicated the programs, teachers and facilities have to be. Though it is a stressful environment for kids, parents can rest assured both public (if Korean is spoken) and international schools will both be equally good options for children who will be living abroad.

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Top Countries for Expats

When an expat is given an international assignment, often he or she doesn’t have much say in where they will be placed. However, for those job seeking abroad or simply looking for a new place to spend a few years working, there are some countries that are just better than others for expats.

In terms of prospective earning, resources for expats, tax situation and more, these countries have been rated as the best places for expats to live and work among many studies and surveys through the years:

10. Spain

Although the prospects for employment aren’t as high in Spain as for most other countries on the list, with a high rate of unemployment, expats with needed skills are likely to have a quality of life not seen in most other countries. The benefits include living within the exciting EU, very high rankings for work hours, family and social life, and commute to work and more among expats.

9. USA

The US is still a land of opportunity in the 21st century, and still a top pick for expats looking to live abroad. Although it is also known as a country with difficult immigration policies, if you have the right skills to stay you will be welcomed with open arms. Thanks to a large percentage of residents coming as first or second generation immigrants, you can enjoy both the local and your own culture. Entertainment and accommodation also rank high for expats.

8. France

There are a variety of areas expats in France rank their experiences the highest- family life, quality of healthcare, and availability of local groups among them. A top contender for expats looking to life abroad, France is also one of the most expensive countries of choice. Despite the cost, the high quality of life expats experience means no looking back or second guessing.

7. Switzerland

Another country where the cost of living and policy restrictions make it more difficult to immigrate, Switzerland is nonetheless ranked by expats living in it as one of the best countries possible. There is a very high quality of life associated with the country, clean air and water and good healthcare available, as well as welcoming locals who make the experience worth the cost.

6. Hong Kong

Expats living in Hong Kong have the best of both worlds- both a high quality of living in a top urban center and high earnings above most other countries worldwide. Ranked highly by expats as a top country in which to live, Hong Kong combines both eastern and western living for a unique experience with good entertainment and easy commute time. Education and childcare is also ranked highly in the country.

5. Qatar

Qatar is an expat haven, where the majority of the residents in the country are actually from other countries. While social life, quality of healthcare and accommodation are all ranked well by expats, the best ranked areas come in from average pay and taxation benefits. Expats in Qatar earn on average much more than their counterparts in their home countries and don’t have to pay the huge taxes in other countries.

4. Bahrain

Like Qatar, expats in Bahrain come primarily for the high rates of pay and low taxes. The country boasts a higher percentage of expats living within the borders than citizens, and as such expats have many opportunities to meet new people and make friends from around the world. Bahrain is the place to be if you are looking to make good money fast, but not if you are looking for somewhere to relocate to permanently.

3. Singapore

With a growing foreign population, due to a low birthrate, Singapore is a top choice for expats, especially those with families. Earning potential is high, crime is low, and with plenty of other expats living on the island you will be sure to have many choices in entertainment, dining, and groups to join. Transportation and childcare are both also ranked highly, though the cost of living, and accommodation in particular, can be pricey.

2. Canada

Canada has a fairly open immigration policy, which is a huge benefit to those seeking a high quality of life similar to the US without the restrictions, and with better healthcare! Many cities within Canada have been named in various top 10 lists for best cities for expats, and as a foreigner welcoming country, expats should have no trouble fitting in. Earning potential is good if you have the proper credentials, and accommodation in particular is highly ranked.

1. Australia

With a good number of its major cities coming in at the top of lists for best cities for expats to move to, it is no surprise that Australia ranks top on this list of best countries for expats as well. Expats in Australia rank nearly every category highly, with quality of healthcare coming in the top spot. Good social options and a slower way of life also mean expats can earn good money while still making time for their families and hobbies.

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ExpatFinder.com launches German website: ExpatRatgeber.com, a new service quotation request and comparison website dedicated to German expatriates.

The premiere innovative portal acts as a one stop website to answer the needs of the growing population of Germans living outside of Germany. The website helps users save time and money by comparing a wide range of products and services in four key areas: Housing, Insurance, Finance and Relocation, wherever the expat is located around the world.

Singapore, August 02, 2011 - Interexpat Pte. Ltd., the Singapore headquartered Internet Services Company today launched http://www.ExpatRatgeber.com, a new internet portal targeting German nationals preparing for expatriation or already living or working abroad.

The simple interface of the website offers comparison features of major German service providers as well as other renowned companies around the world who can cater to the needs of the German expatriate consumers in everything from banking services and health insurance to relocation and moving services.

The German language website complements a portfolio of websites in 4 languages (English, French, Spanish, Dutch) the company manages. “We are glad to offer our expertise in a 5th language now and deepen our reach within the various national communities of expatriates.  We will work hard to bring the best information on destinations and available services and products to German expats to help them make informed decisions,” says Francois Deschamps, co-founder, ExpatRatgeber.com.

The large population of German nationals abroad is mainly caused by an export oriented economy back home that leverages on a large network of overseas German companies’ branches and offices. As exports constitute about 45 percent of the country’s economy, Germany has seen more and more managers participate in the export strategy by accepting assignments abroad as well as a younger generation now looking for the international experience.

“Advertisers are organizing their reach towards this population and we are glad to put our expertise toward helping them better service this niche population. As we have been providing tailored expat services for years, we are pleased to welcome the German speaking population to these services,” says Sebastian Deschamps co-founder and director of ExpatRatgeber.com.

The new internet portal also offers free articles and guides as well as a social community of hundreds of German expat bloggers sharing their experience.
Media Contact

Sébastien Deschamps  Interexpat Pte Ltd  Email: contact@expatfinder.com Phone : 00 65 6423 9515

About Interexpat & ExpatRatgeber.com: French and French-American co-founders Francois and Sébastien Deschamps are currently working on innovative solutions for consumers around the world. ExpatRatgeber.com is a new addition to a portfolio of supportive online portals including www.ExpatFinder.com, www.SuperExpat.fr, www.MundoExpat.com, www.ExpatWijzer.com, www.ExpatAngels.org and  www.MisterCurrency.com.

For more information visit: www.ExpatRatgeber.com

Top International Airlines Globally

With the summer vacation season well under way, expats and world travellers are taking off in 2011 in higher numbers than ever. Before you book a flight or step on a plane, it may be worth your time to learn about the top ranked airlines worldwide- dedicated to providing the best service and best experience to all flyers.

For 2011, Skytrax has completed the World Airline Awards rating the best 10 airlines. While there has been some movement from previous years, in general all the airlines listed have been consistently ranked the best of the best and you should have no reason to fret when booking through any of these.

Here we provide some information on the winners to help you make your decision easier:

10. Emirates

With a fleet of 153 aircraft and the center of operations in Dubai, Emirates is the largest air carrier in the Middle East. There won’t be any time to sleep on an Emirates flight, as they have won the award for Best Entertainment the last seven years. With a host of hundreds of movies and television stations, and even private bathrooms, showers and minibars in first-class, the airline offers a luxurious style of flight.

9. Turkish Airlines

Comprising a fleet of 174 aircraft, Turkish airlines is centered is Istanbul, Turkey. Although it is the first time this carrier has made the list, they were named Europe’s best airline as well, quite an entrance. What Turkish airlines really has going for it is its scope. Servicing 180 locations, the carrier is now Europe’s third largest airline and is quickly gaining. With special deals always ongoing, you are also sure to save by flying with the number 9 airline.

8. Qantas Airways

With a fleet of191 craft and centered in Sydney Australia, Qantas is just one of many top airlines within the Asia-Pacific region. However, as Qantas has been a contender on the top airlines list for the last six years, it is clear it is here to stay. One of the oldest airlines in the world, Qantas also has an amazing record of safety, with no fatal accidents in over half a century. However, with all the competition in the region, Qantas is currently working at a loss.

7. Air New Zealand

Despite its small size with just 103 aircraft, this Auckland based air carrier is the best in the Australasia and Pacific region. You won’t find as many high-tech gadgets on flights here as many other top airlines, but Air New Zealand is best at exactly what it should be- providing high quality service on both long-haul and short-haul flights. If you are looking for hundreds of new movies and minibars you may not find them here, but you will find good old fashioned quality.

6. Etihad Airways

Compared to the other airlines on this list, Etihad Airways doesn’t have a long record of success, namely because it was only founded in 2003! Etihad Airways is now the fastest growing carrier, even beating out competitor Emirates. With just 57 aircraft in its fleet right now, Etihad is a relative baby, but is growing fast and is reputed to have the best first-class cabin and catering globally.

5. Thai Airways

Thai airways has been a contender on the best airlines list for many years now, including placing first in 2006 and second in 2007. Now ranked fifth globally, Thai Airways is still one of the most loved carriers in the Asia region. Despite still competition, the friendly service ensures customers return and work with them again and again. Another benefit is the traditional outfits Thai Airways stewardesses wear during the flight, a great cultural introduction for those entering the country.

4. Cathay Pacific Airways

With 125 aircraft, Hong Kong based Cathay Pacific is another airline that has been showered with praise- it even won best airline in 2009. Although there are a number of other competing airlines in the region, Cathay Pacific has reported high gains through the years and is well loved for offering non-stop flights direct from New York to Hong Kong, as it was the first in the industry to do.

3. Asiana Airlines

With 72 aircraft, Asiana Airlines is still a relatively small carrier. However, with the additions, you definitely won’t be missing out on any of these flights. Containing in-flight magic shows and makeup events, as well as special access for disabled flyers, Asiana strives to include everyone and make everyone feel welcome. Ranked as the best airline internationally last year, there is no doubt Asiana will remain on the list for many years to come.

2. Singapore Airlines

With a fleet of 112 aircraft and officially the second largest carrier internationally, Singapore airlines is regularly at the top of the best airline lists. Singapore Airlines is a known innovator in the industry, as the first to offer meals to economy passengers and the first to offer an 18 hour flight, they are also known for their beautiful air stewardesses always ready with a smile or to offer assistance.

1. Qatar Airways

Another relative newcomer, Qatar Airways was formed in 1994 and has since shot up the ratings. From 8th place six years ago to ranked as the best international carrier, Qatar Airways also has one of the youngest fleets- the 97 craft airline’s average aircraft age is only four years. Growing fast, Qatar Airways is always adding new routes to its listing and with its current highly coveted spot, it is sure to grow even faster.

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ExpatFinder.com launches the first Cost Of Living Facebook Platform Application to help expatriates compare prices in cities around the world as survey proves data “extremely important”.

The new Facebook® Platform application builds on the interaction of Facebook users to collect price data in their city of residence and compare its cost of living with friends in an informative and fun environment. A survey conducted by ExpatFinder.com with over 300 expatriate Facebook users revealed that 65.3% considered it “extremely important” to learn about the accommodation costs before relocating to the destination city.

Singapore, June 21, 2011- Interexpat Pte. Ltd., the Singapore headquartered internet services company today launched http://apps.facebook.com/costofliving/, a new application built directly upon the Facebook Platform to access and engage the 700 million Facebook users in building and using the largest collaborative database of prices around the world.

The survey, conducted on hundreds of expatriate Facebook users, highlighted the need for access to information regarding cost of housing and transportation first and foremost. Food prices and entertainment were considered very important for over 45% of respondents. The in-depth survey also highlighted that 49% of respondents were ready to pay for a cost of living analysis before relocating.

This newly developed innovation highlights the continuous research and development (R&D) efforts within Interexpat Pte. Ltd. to help better support expatriates and those relocating around the world: “After creating the first expat virtual relocation service through the 3D virtual world Twinity recently, we wanted to tap into our vast social media reach to develop a new tool for expats around the world, and based on the Facebook survey we conducted, we knew where we needed to put our efforts.” said Francois Deschamps, co-founder, ExpatFinder.com.

Cost of living data is central to a successful relocation, but available resources are often fragmented, pricey, outdated or inaccurate. The free Facebook Application will help collect and share relevant data and evolve over time to cover more products and services.

The successful launch of this new Facebook Platform Application underlines the multi channel reach that ExpatFinder.com has built over time, through social media, emailing and offline events. “It is certainly a good way for us not only to build a useful and free tool for our users but also to showcase the expertise of the team in understanding the market’s needs. We are able to offer much more than a multiple website reach, we are bridging the gaps left from using websites only and bringing new solutions directly to our clients with cross channel engagements and conversions.” said Sébastien Deschamps, CEO ExpatFinder.com.

Media Contact Sébastien Deschamps Interexpat Pte Ltd Email: contact@expatfinder.com

About Interexpat Pte.Ltd. French and French-American co-founders Francois and Sébastien Deschamps are currently working on innovative solutions for consumers around the world. The company manages a portfolio of online properties including www.ExpatFinder.com , www.SuperExpat.fr , www.MundoExpat.com , www.ExpatAngels.org, www.ExpatWijzer.com and www.MisterCurrency.com.

For more information visit: http://apps.facebook.com/costofliving/

Favorite Summer Vacation Holiday Spots Around the World

Whether you are looking for a cheap spot to take in the sights or a lush tropical vacation with all the perks, there are limitless possibilities for your summer travels. Grab your camera and get ready to dive into some of the best tourist spots this summer on any budget.

Cambodia

Often overlooked due to the other amazing countries nearby, Cambodia is ready to play host to adventure seekers and beach buffs alike. With sights you won’t find anywhere else, Cambodia can be a little piece of heaven.

One of the top spots recommended for visiting in Cambodia is Angkor Wat, some of the most beautiful temple ruins in the world. Better yet, much of the temple grounds is still open to the public, though with the numbers of tourists trekking through each year that is unlikely to last much longer.

Visit the official Cambodia Tourism site to plan your trip to this hidden gem.

Australia

If you’d rather take a holiday to somewhere a bit cooler, consider the land down under, where June-August are the cooler months. Although not as easy on the pocket book as Cambodia, Australia can offer top of the line dining and relaxation as well as gorgeous sites and vacation packages.

Kangaroo Island is one of the stops you’ll be inclined to make, an interesting area where you can observe wildlife and take in the surf and sun.

Learn about all the areas open for the tourist season and plan an itinerary set to keep you busy day after day here.

Peru

The summer holiday months are definitely the busiest time for this country, but even with the influx of tourists you can still expect to have enough breathing room when visiting Peru.

One of the most popular tourist sites to visit is Machu Picchu, and now is a great time to go. Every year the ruins become more popular and less accessible.

PeruTourism can lend a hand in helping plan out your vacation itinerary or offering pre-planned tours so all you need to do is sit back and let the guide take care of everything. For an in depth look at Machu Picchu and your options for visiting, take a look here.

Switzerland

Summer is the best time to visit Switzerland, you’ll have the opportunity to hike through iconic mountains and enjoy the sun and fresh air. The best resource for finding which paths suit you can be found here.

For other tourist attractions and spots, you can look through an online guide here, although you won’t have to look far as nearly every city is both expat and tourist friendly and beautiful enough to take your breath away.

Italy

One of the hottest tourist spots no matter the time of year, Italy has so much to see and do it’d be impossible in one trip. However, you can get your start and see some of the biggest areas, Rome and the Vatican among them, for a taste. There’s a reason Italy is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.

Find the Rome tourist site direct here to get you on your way and show off both the popular and obscure sights, or book a tour through sites like Viator to see Pompeii up close.

No matter where you choose to spend your summer vacation, there is plenty in store as long as you plan in advance and know the requirements before you take off. Pack for the season and be safe and responsible on your travels!

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Foods and Flavors From Around the World

For many people, the most important aspect of any particular culture is the food. In many countries, you will find heavily spiced and tangy foods, some countries rely on meats in nearly every meal, and in others it’s all about layering flavors.

For the adventurous, trying foods from around the world is an experience that allows them to fully embrace another culture. However, you don’t even need to leave your home to get to know another culture. While it can never be a true substitute for home cooking made with love in the country of origin, you can recreate popular recipes from some of your favorite food cultures with ingredients found in any supermarket.

France

No list on cuisine would be complete without a mention to some of France’s iconic dishes. French food is renown around the globe as being some of the most delicious fare imaginable, so if you’re feeling creative you might want to give some of these dishes a try.

Moules Frites

Confit de Canard

Crepes with Salted Butter Caramel

Russia

Russian foods are perfect for the cold weather, good filling meals designed to fill you up and leave you warm inside and out. While not as well known as foods from many other countries, giving Russian foods a try is something every curious world explorer must do.

Pelmeni

Cottage Cheese Pancakes

Australia

Many of Australia’s most popular recipes date to the WWI and WWII era, when the industrious Australians used whatever ingredients they had to put together the best meals under the circumstances. Today, Australians have many choices for food, but often still choose these classics.

Anzak Biscuits

Damper

Singapore

Singapore is an ethnically diverse society, and, as would be expected, they have a wide range of foods from different countries that locals have made their own. From Singapore chicken rice to hundreds of recipes with durian, you’re sure to find something new and exciting by sampling Singapore local cuisine.

Singapore Chicken Rice

Roti Prata

Ice Kachang

United States

Among the most classic dishes in America are those actually borrowed from other cultures, including New York style pizza and tacos. If you’re looking for some good American recipes look no further:

New York Style Pizza

Southern Fried Chicken and Gravy

Chile

Chilean foods are becoming more well known as time passes for being perfect examples of comfort foods. With rich deep flavors and exciting ingredients, delving into some Chilean dishes is bound to be one of your best experiences.

Cazuela de Ave

Porotos Granados

South Africa

Get ready to enter a world of bold flavors and delicious spices. When you’re ready to have a go at preparing South African food you’ll find yourself immersed in a wide range of meats, vegetables and spices.

Frikkadel

Bobotie

Potjiekos

ExpatFinder.com is here for you during your move or while living abroad:

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