Tuesday December 1
Today Jayne and I went with Yiannis to Nicosia. Another couple went with us, too. The guy is Irish and the woman is Philippine.
Yiannis suggest that we go to the British Embassy first. This the guy needed to go there and Jayne went there to have a paper certified that it is her signature. Well, this cost her 32 euros.
About the embassy, this is located in the middle of the DMZ it looks like, as there are barbed wire on both sides and there is just destruction on both sides form the 1974 war. Also the buildings are all old.
The British embassy is in the old Cypriot style. It's more like two small buildings with an outdoor appearance.
Nothing is modern there. There is an open space where you walk through a turn-style. Then when you are past there, you are still outside. This is for all those who are in the embassy. Then you go in the waiting room where there are the cashier windows. The whole appearance is all layed back, which is a nice change from other embassies.
Since you are not allowed to bring in your cell phones and other electronic equipement, there is a wooden letter box. Something you'd expect to see where postmen would put letters. Here, you put your cell phone.
This is outside, and there is no one to watch the box nor are there cameras. It's all based on the honor system. It's nice that there is still some country in the world that is like that. I don't know who long it will stay like that, but it's like that now.
There are no guards, security shake down, metal detectors, etc. yet, this is right next to the boarder where the Turks invaded.
There was one person, who look Russian, that brought her cell phone in and made a call from the woman's room. Well, she was caught and told to go out. It sounded like she spoke little English. She bought the phone in on purpose, as she can't claim ignorance since there is a picture of a 'no sign' with a cell phone. Anyhow, he had trouble finding her way out. When she went out and in again through the turn-style, she was told to go out again and put leave her phone out. She finally got it. I can imagine this is a shock for her, as something like this would never be done in Russia. (This would not be done in the US, UK, Ecuador and most countries of the world, either.)
The we went to the Philippine Consulate and the other couple had trouble there, too. They couldn't get the stamp that they wanted. It was something about for people getting married but they are already married.
Saturday, December 19, 2009
I Met an Internet Marketer
Friday November 27, 2009
Today has been an amazing day.
First, I went to the computer store to buy some supplies that I need. I went back to the flat, dropped off what I had and picked up my computer. I planned to work in Yiannis' office today. When I got there, I saw that the Irish guy and his Philippine wife was working in there. He's quite a talker.
I talked with him, but I didn't unpack my computer. I thought I would not have time to do the work that I wanted to do. After talking to the guy a bit, I left and went to Starbucks again.
After being there a couple of hours, I was ready to go. Then a guy walked in that I've seen before here. I said 'hi' to him and he said 'hi' back. I said 'how's it going?' and he responded. Then as he was getting his computer plug out he said, 'People think that I'm not doing any work, but I do on the Internet.'
Well, I said, 'really,that is what I'm trying to do myself.' then we got to talking about making money on the internet. He asked me about what I'm doing and I asked him about his work. He showed me the website he has and I was impressed!
He told me he has 40,000 on his mailing list. He told me about some programs he has, how he out-sources his work, etc.
I asked his name and he said John S. and he is a Cypriot and lives and works in Limassol here. He is a real nice guy.
The funny thing is, that a few weeks ago I said to Jayne that I wish I would meet someone that has an internet business so I can share ideas with him. I had thought about this before but not long ago, and it had not been regular.
Then, just yesterday I bought this program and saw only one of the films on money. Well, do you know what it said?
“I am always at the right place at the right time meeting the right people.”
and this was the first thing of the many affirmations it says. How true this is! I didn't expect it to work this quick.
Think about this. I did and I give thanks to God for this...
I would have work in the office but I didn't because this Irish guys likes to talk. If it wasn't for this, I would not have meet John, or I would have met him much later in time. I don't think that things like this happens by accident.
Back to John...
he asked me what I did, and I told him (among other things) that I use EFT (I explained what this does).
He was fascinated by what I said and the video that I showed him. He than asked if I would like to be interviewed on video so he can show his membership. (John has a membership site where they pay $47/month and get audio interviews.) I told him I would be honored. He said I could make money, too, by having giving my website and have people come to it and buy whatever I sell.
Today has been an amazing day.
First, I went to the computer store to buy some supplies that I need. I went back to the flat, dropped off what I had and picked up my computer. I planned to work in Yiannis' office today. When I got there, I saw that the Irish guy and his Philippine wife was working in there. He's quite a talker.
I talked with him, but I didn't unpack my computer. I thought I would not have time to do the work that I wanted to do. After talking to the guy a bit, I left and went to Starbucks again.
After being there a couple of hours, I was ready to go. Then a guy walked in that I've seen before here. I said 'hi' to him and he said 'hi' back. I said 'how's it going?' and he responded. Then as he was getting his computer plug out he said, 'People think that I'm not doing any work, but I do on the Internet.'
Well, I said, 'really,that is what I'm trying to do myself.' then we got to talking about making money on the internet. He asked me about what I'm doing and I asked him about his work. He showed me the website he has and I was impressed!
He told me he has 40,000 on his mailing list. He told me about some programs he has, how he out-sources his work, etc.
I asked his name and he said John S. and he is a Cypriot and lives and works in Limassol here. He is a real nice guy.
The funny thing is, that a few weeks ago I said to Jayne that I wish I would meet someone that has an internet business so I can share ideas with him. I had thought about this before but not long ago, and it had not been regular.
Then, just yesterday I bought this program and saw only one of the films on money. Well, do you know what it said?
“I am always at the right place at the right time meeting the right people.”
and this was the first thing of the many affirmations it says. How true this is! I didn't expect it to work this quick.
Think about this. I did and I give thanks to God for this...
I would have work in the office but I didn't because this Irish guys likes to talk. If it wasn't for this, I would not have meet John, or I would have met him much later in time. I don't think that things like this happens by accident.
Back to John...
he asked me what I did, and I told him (among other things) that I use EFT (I explained what this does).
He was fascinated by what I said and the video that I showed him. He than asked if I would like to be interviewed on video so he can show his membership. (John has a membership site where they pay $47/month and get audio interviews.) I told him I would be honored. He said I could make money, too, by having giving my website and have people come to it and buy whatever I sell.
Thanksgiving Day
Nearly a month went by since I entered anything. Since then, we have been doing what we can to start a business. I've been going on the internet everyday and Jayne, too, with her City Cell connection.Jayne has had problems with this service since day-one. I couldn't put up with all of that. Even if there were no problems, the connection is too slow.
Every Monday afternoon, Jayne goes bowling with the other ladies (about 6 total).
Last Saturday, Jayne and I went with friends to some British get-together. They have a yearly lunch in a restaurant on the sea. I had been there once before in 2006.
We had a ride with Janice and Brian. Peter and Anne rode with us, too. (Peter desn't have a car either here.)
It's a good deal going there, as for the buffet meal it cost only 5 euros a piece. All drinks are extra of course. It's outside of the village of Koulosi, which is where Richard the Lion Heart came too (King of England).
A few days ago, I said to Jayne that the date for the Immigration appointment is on Saturday and that as far as I know government offices are closed. She check the date that was given on the paper that the girl wrote on and it said Nov. 28, which is on a Saturday.
We told this to Yainnis and he thinks they made mistake, too.
Today (Thanksgiving Day) we met with Yiannis at 8am.
Today we went with him to Immigration and sure enough, a mistake was made. The guy behind the desk gave us a number so we could see someone this morning.
We waited only about 10 minutes.
We showed all our paperwork. There were two things that did not satisfy her and that is, we could not show that we had at least 950 euros coming in a month (combined) and that I did not have something from the government that I was never married before I married Jayne.
With my bank statement that I showed, I would have to show the last three months. What I showed here was the last three months from when I first arrived, which as back in September. I knew that I would have show the last three months, but the reason why I didn't have that done was that I would not have enough money in it.
With Jayne, she has no money coming in, and to show the last three months that she has, she couldn't. The reason is, that her money is in a bank CD and this can't be taken out until it matures.
A person, like us who wants to live in Cyprus, has to have enough money to live for a year (about 12,000 euros), or to have about 1,000 euros a month coming in from a pension, investment, etc. in other words, money on a regular bases.
We both didn't like this. The woman at the desk said that when we get this, we can come back at any time.
When we were outside, we all discussed this. One way is if Jayne works here. I can't, since I'm not an EU member. Yiannis said he can say and show papers that Jayne is working for him. But I would have to pay for the unemployment insurance, which would be about 250 euros a month. So, without showing a steady income from a pension coming in, we can do it this way.
I have to pay the insurance, or it would come out of Yiannis' pocket.
When we got back we discussed that this is not right under the law. Cyprus is a member of the EU and as a member, that a citizen has a right to live in any country in Europe that they want. We will push this fact the next time we go back.
Yiannis, wants to meet me tomorrow morning and go with him to Nicosia. He has other business to do there, but I'm to come along as he will take me to the American Embassy and have it certified that I had not been married before.
Of course, this is stupid government nonsense. I had this done already in Ecuador. They are cautious there, too, before they marry anyone. The fact that it was acknowledged that we got married, they should accept all that was done there.
I bought Mind Movie online. This is found at http://www.mindmovie.com/
what this program does is that you can manifest anything that you want with watching these films. One is on money, another on relationships, another on health, etc.
I haven't created my own, yet, as it takes time. But I did see the samples that they gave you. So, I had this on my computer. It runs in the background and you can put the transparency so as you can still do your work but your subconscious takes in the pictures and written affirmations.
This movie was running for a couple of hours.
Now, that brings up to date.
Yiannis' Home
Just recently I had the computer repairman here to look at my computer and two printers. While Ilyia was here, Jayne said that her computer was over-heating. He told her that the fan was not working and this can damage the computer.
So, Jayne will have to find an HP service center as her computer is still under warranty.
I had Ilyia take my computer in as I wanted him to look at the scanner. I want this to work with my computer.
Jayne found a place in Nicosia to service her HP, but she asked if they have an office in Limassol and have them send it up there. They do have an office, but she hasn't been able to get them on the phone.
In the meantime, I got my computer back and it's working fine.
Tonight, Jayne and I will be going to Yiannis' home for dinner, as he invited us a couple of days ago. Jayne has never been to his house, so she'll enjoy it.
Yiannis picked us up at 6pm and took us to his house. When we arrived, we met Klaus and I introduced him to Jayne.
Yiannis' Home
Yiannis had his house work eat with us (she from Vietnam).
The food was delicious and Yiannis went all out. He had avocado with shrimp in a holiday sauce. There was also pita bread and the local dips that go with it.
Then he brought out the mixed salad, baked potatoes and white fish.
We washed it all down with red wine that I bought. It was a better bottle as it was from 2003.
I was to help Yiannis with download the videos that he took that's on his camera, but he couldn't find the cable that does it. He will let me know when he does so I can download it for him.
We then went to the living room and talked, then watched TV. His house worker, Anna, just ate with us, did the dishes and went to her room. Klaus, didn't eat with us, as he ate earlier and had to go to his snack shop (which he owns) to work.
Jayne was ready to leave early, but I didn't. I noticed that Yiannis enjoyed us being there, plus, when someone does a lot of cooking it's impolite to leave early.
I said to Yiannis, what's good on TV and he said that there is the Uri Geller show. This is all about tricks or actual mysterious human ability. If you recall, Uri became famous with the bending of the spoons with his hands.
This is a Greek TV show that is on every week, we were told. I found this show more entertaining than the Britain Got Talent show, as many of these guests have no talent at all.
There were some amazing acts – some of them tricks and others by some unknown science. In fact, there was one musician there that Yiannis met personally, as this guy is a friend of his son. He showed us a picture of him. Also, Yiannis know him from when he worked the hotels and told us a story about him and the guests.
But the most amazing thing was done by Uri himself.
He told the home viewers to get some potatoes out, and a plant and put them in front of the TV or over it.
Yiannis ran in the kitchen and got three potatoes and some fruit. Then he placed them in front of the TV. He then got a plant and put that on the floor next to where the TV is.
Uri than had some other people hold a handful of potato seeds and he held some, too. Then he told everyone to day, 'Grow, grow, grow.' well, sure enough he showed a sprouted plant. Then he showed another one.
We were told to look at out potato at home. We did, and sure enough, there was one sprout on it! We were all amazed. Then Uri said to look at the plant to see if it change a shade of color. Yiannis said that it did, and Jayne and I didn't remember one flower that was not fully developed but had leaves – it was white (the whole plant was a purple color).
I took pictures of the potato, the plant and one with the TV and Uri on the screen.
This show went on and on. It must have started at 9pm and lasted until 12am!
During the show, it had rained in Cyprus and was still raining when we left. Usually when it does rain it's later in the year, and when it rains it's for a short time. Hopefully, there will be a lot of rain for the winter, or enough to fill up the dams.
Then Yiannis drove us back to our flat. We had a very nice evening.
Almost Two Months
Here it is almost Christmas. Following you will see some posts of what happened since October and December 2009. Not every day is listed, but when there is nothing interesting to write about, why do it.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
First Half of October
Thursday 1 October
I took more things out of the storage that is mine. I took the CDs that I had bought off the internet.
Friday 2 October
I tried the ink jet and it worked! I'm glad because it looked like it was bent across the dials, plus the woman at the
computer store said that on Canon and Epsom printers if you don't use them for a long time the heads can get clogged and I would have to buy a new printer.
Saturday 3 October
I got the laser printer to work, which is good. Now I can print the things I need for the EFT business plus for anything else I need.
Yiannis is back from his trip to Vietnam, though he wasn't in the office. I can understand that as he's probably tired.
Sunday 4 October
I didn't go to the beach today. Instead we stayed home. I wanted to go later, but Jayne was into her painting.
Monday 5 October
I saw Yiannis today. He has been away on his trip to Vietnam. He got back Saturday but this is the first time I saw him.
Tuesday 6 October
Toady is Yainnis' birthday. He is not feeling too good, as he came back from his trip with a cold.
Wednesday 7 October
Today, Jayne, Yiannis and I went to Nicosia, as he said we need to go to have our marriage certificate translated. I new what it was not required for us to come, as all they need is the certificate and the money to do it, and it won't be done while we wait (or while he waits, for that matter).
Jayne enjoyed her ride to Nicosia as she had never been there before. We went to the office where the translation is done and I paid 22 euros. I was told it would be ready in about 4 days. We were given a choice to have it translated in either Greek or English, and we chose English. The woman said they would prefer Greek but they will accept in in English.
Then we went to another office where Yiannis had to have something done for another client. I said I would treat him to lunch, so we went to the old section of the city and had a lunch outside in a pedestrian area.
Thursday 8 October
I took my computer in to have some work done. I couldn't view some video files, and one program that I bought (original) wouldn't play.
Friday 9 October
I spent some time at Starbucks on the internet.
Saturday 10 October
I think that a program that I bought yesterday came from a gun who's running a scam. The strange thing is, this guy is known as a 'internet guru' and has made millions on the internet (no wonder). This name is Mike Filsaime and it was at his website (one of many) at: listdotcom.com .
I went on the internet and searched for the words, 'mike filsaime scam' and came up with a website that has an article about him and how he was ripped off.
I guess it shouldn't surprise me, as there have been national institution that have defrauded the public.
It a long story but to make it short, I paid $197 for the right to email 5,000 people every two days if I want to. I was to get some bonus books with it, too. Well, I couldn't get myself back to that page. Plus the password that was mailed me didn't work! I emailed him and I should have got another password. Since this works by computer I didn't get a response back, which
should have happened in minutes if not seconds.
Then there I couldn't find the links to download the books. I was bombarded with one offer after another, and there was no link to the books.
What will I do?
I will go to the bank to cancel the internet card, so I won't have a re-occurring bill (which would be $74/mo). Then when I do have some other re-occurring bill come, I will be able to acknowledge it one at a time. They will have to send me an email to say 'there is something wrong with your bank card.' When I get something from Filsiame I'll ignore it.
Another thing that everyone should do is, before they buy any product, they should do a search for the name of the person AND and name of the program to see if there are any complaints against them.
Also, after you get a list of crooks, look to who supports him/her in guru seminars. Because if they are associated with him you should avoid that person, too.
Another scam to watch out for last week I order a host and domain name from a highly recommended company (godaddy.com) and I was sent an email (after the acknowledgement of payment) that I have to send a copy of my ID and bank card! Can you
imagine that? This would make it easy for a crook to use my info as all they would have to do is to have the card made. Also,
people who work in the office would not have access to this information anyhow.
This information is secured in some encrypted safe place on a computer. So, all I know is that some individual would have
access to this and use it.
I wrote to them telling them this sounds like a hacker. Well, I got an email back. This means that they probably get other
complaints like this and have their auto-responder answer OR it was an individual.
I was told this was because of 'security reasons'. Yea, sure. They sound like the US government!
I was told that if didn't send this info in, I could ask for my money back. Well, this is what I will do.
There is another recommended host site I'll go to and I'll see what happens there after I pay for the service.
Monday 12 October
We went to Debenham's today. This is a department store chain and it's right on the sea front. First we stopped in the
English book store. The person that works in there part time is Linda, and I hadn't seen her since I left Cyprus. She was
glad to see me.
I talked about where we were and I introduced her to Jayne. Her husband, Roberto, was home. He a a degenerative spine and
can't come to the store.
We bought some books then we did our food shopping. The bill came to 86 euros! Then we took a taxi home.
Tuesday 13 October
Not much happened.
Wednesday 14 October
Yiannis took us to Nicosia so we can pick up the paperwork that was ready. He had other work to do there of course. When we
got back I wanted to pay him a deposit on the work that he's done. He said, 'No way. I'm not going to charge you.'
I couldn't get him to take the money. Jayne was there and saw this, too.
I'll have to find some other way to pay him back. However, the fact that I'm using his internet so much since I came here and
have been paying him all along, he's making money on it. I'm the only customer that stays so long. And there are two people
(one his daughter) don't pay. So, he is making extra money, which is good.
Then I went back to our flat and I printed off the literature I want for EFT. Later, I went to Club 71 to talk to the owner.
She wasn't in, so I talked to a worker and left some literature there. The worker was interested in my having a meeting
there.
I'll have to go back another day.
I saw that my phone rang and saw that Mary had called. I called back and she said that she and Clive are in Limassol. They
are here because they wanted to go to the grave of Derek with Angela. I talked to Angela, too, as Mary was at her house when
I called. Mary wanted to know we wanted to go with them to a restaurant and I said that Jayne was already cooking something.
When Mary first called she was at Yiannis' office. She said that they wanted to make it a day for Angela and that is why she
didn't call in advance. Well, that's what happens as other people could have plans, too.
Angela told me that she will be picking up Peter and Anne Thursday afternoon from the airport. The come each year at this
time and spend six months. It will be good to see them. I asked Angela to give my number to them when they come. I presume
that the group of us will be getting together for dinner.
Thursday 15 October
I went to the coffee shop and worked on the internet. With a program that I signed up with about two weeks ago, I saw that it
was suggested that I get a domain name. There is a company that they recommend and they show you how to set everything up,
too. So, I bought a domain name.
Reading what I did, I find that it's very helpful. There are videos on each step of the way of how to do things. The other
things that I like about this host company is you can add audio and video files. Also, the package hosting includes an
auto-responder.
In the past two days, I've already have decided not to follow a couple of programs that I bought as it would not be worth the
money back with the time I have to put into it.
I took more things out of the storage that is mine. I took the CDs that I had bought off the internet.
Friday 2 October
I tried the ink jet and it worked! I'm glad because it looked like it was bent across the dials, plus the woman at the
computer store said that on Canon and Epsom printers if you don't use them for a long time the heads can get clogged and I would have to buy a new printer.
Saturday 3 October
I got the laser printer to work, which is good. Now I can print the things I need for the EFT business plus for anything else I need.
Yiannis is back from his trip to Vietnam, though he wasn't in the office. I can understand that as he's probably tired.
Sunday 4 October
I didn't go to the beach today. Instead we stayed home. I wanted to go later, but Jayne was into her painting.
Monday 5 October
I saw Yiannis today. He has been away on his trip to Vietnam. He got back Saturday but this is the first time I saw him.
Tuesday 6 October
Toady is Yainnis' birthday. He is not feeling too good, as he came back from his trip with a cold.
Wednesday 7 October
Today, Jayne, Yiannis and I went to Nicosia, as he said we need to go to have our marriage certificate translated. I new what it was not required for us to come, as all they need is the certificate and the money to do it, and it won't be done while we wait (or while he waits, for that matter).
Jayne enjoyed her ride to Nicosia as she had never been there before. We went to the office where the translation is done and I paid 22 euros. I was told it would be ready in about 4 days. We were given a choice to have it translated in either Greek or English, and we chose English. The woman said they would prefer Greek but they will accept in in English.
Then we went to another office where Yiannis had to have something done for another client. I said I would treat him to lunch, so we went to the old section of the city and had a lunch outside in a pedestrian area.
Thursday 8 October
I took my computer in to have some work done. I couldn't view some video files, and one program that I bought (original) wouldn't play.
Friday 9 October
I spent some time at Starbucks on the internet.
Saturday 10 October
I think that a program that I bought yesterday came from a gun who's running a scam. The strange thing is, this guy is known as a 'internet guru' and has made millions on the internet (no wonder). This name is Mike Filsaime and it was at his website (one of many) at: listdotcom.com .
I went on the internet and searched for the words, 'mike filsaime scam' and came up with a website that has an article about him and how he was ripped off.
I guess it shouldn't surprise me, as there have been national institution that have defrauded the public.
It a long story but to make it short, I paid $197 for the right to email 5,000 people every two days if I want to. I was to get some bonus books with it, too. Well, I couldn't get myself back to that page. Plus the password that was mailed me didn't work! I emailed him and I should have got another password. Since this works by computer I didn't get a response back, which
should have happened in minutes if not seconds.
Then there I couldn't find the links to download the books. I was bombarded with one offer after another, and there was no link to the books.
What will I do?
I will go to the bank to cancel the internet card, so I won't have a re-occurring bill (which would be $74/mo). Then when I do have some other re-occurring bill come, I will be able to acknowledge it one at a time. They will have to send me an email to say 'there is something wrong with your bank card.' When I get something from Filsiame I'll ignore it.
Another thing that everyone should do is, before they buy any product, they should do a search for the name of the person AND and name of the program to see if there are any complaints against them.
Also, after you get a list of crooks, look to who supports him/her in guru seminars. Because if they are associated with him you should avoid that person, too.
Another scam to watch out for last week I order a host and domain name from a highly recommended company (godaddy.com) and I was sent an email (after the acknowledgement of payment) that I have to send a copy of my ID and bank card! Can you
imagine that? This would make it easy for a crook to use my info as all they would have to do is to have the card made. Also,
people who work in the office would not have access to this information anyhow.
This information is secured in some encrypted safe place on a computer. So, all I know is that some individual would have
access to this and use it.
I wrote to them telling them this sounds like a hacker. Well, I got an email back. This means that they probably get other
complaints like this and have their auto-responder answer OR it was an individual.
I was told this was because of 'security reasons'. Yea, sure. They sound like the US government!
I was told that if didn't send this info in, I could ask for my money back. Well, this is what I will do.
There is another recommended host site I'll go to and I'll see what happens there after I pay for the service.
Monday 12 October
We went to Debenham's today. This is a department store chain and it's right on the sea front. First we stopped in the
English book store. The person that works in there part time is Linda, and I hadn't seen her since I left Cyprus. She was
glad to see me.
I talked about where we were and I introduced her to Jayne. Her husband, Roberto, was home. He a a degenerative spine and
can't come to the store.
We bought some books then we did our food shopping. The bill came to 86 euros! Then we took a taxi home.
Tuesday 13 October
Not much happened.
Wednesday 14 October
Yiannis took us to Nicosia so we can pick up the paperwork that was ready. He had other work to do there of course. When we
got back I wanted to pay him a deposit on the work that he's done. He said, 'No way. I'm not going to charge you.'
I couldn't get him to take the money. Jayne was there and saw this, too.
I'll have to find some other way to pay him back. However, the fact that I'm using his internet so much since I came here and
have been paying him all along, he's making money on it. I'm the only customer that stays so long. And there are two people
(one his daughter) don't pay. So, he is making extra money, which is good.
Then I went back to our flat and I printed off the literature I want for EFT. Later, I went to Club 71 to talk to the owner.
She wasn't in, so I talked to a worker and left some literature there. The worker was interested in my having a meeting
there.
I'll have to go back another day.
I saw that my phone rang and saw that Mary had called. I called back and she said that she and Clive are in Limassol. They
are here because they wanted to go to the grave of Derek with Angela. I talked to Angela, too, as Mary was at her house when
I called. Mary wanted to know we wanted to go with them to a restaurant and I said that Jayne was already cooking something.
When Mary first called she was at Yiannis' office. She said that they wanted to make it a day for Angela and that is why she
didn't call in advance. Well, that's what happens as other people could have plans, too.
Angela told me that she will be picking up Peter and Anne Thursday afternoon from the airport. The come each year at this
time and spend six months. It will be good to see them. I asked Angela to give my number to them when they come. I presume
that the group of us will be getting together for dinner.
Thursday 15 October
I went to the coffee shop and worked on the internet. With a program that I signed up with about two weeks ago, I saw that it
was suggested that I get a domain name. There is a company that they recommend and they show you how to set everything up,
too. So, I bought a domain name.
Reading what I did, I find that it's very helpful. There are videos on each step of the way of how to do things. The other
things that I like about this host company is you can add audio and video files. Also, the package hosting includes an
auto-responder.
In the past two days, I've already have decided not to follow a couple of programs that I bought as it would not be worth the
money back with the time I have to put into it.
Rest of September News
Sunday September 13
Jayne didn’t want to go to star bucks, so I went by myself. I suggested that we go in the morning there, and in the late afternoon go to the beach.
I wanted to get some work done - setting up an internet business. Since Yainnis’ office is closed today, I thought I could go to Starbucks. (In fact, Yiannis office was closed most of the day yesterday. It looks like I’ll have to use Starbucks on the weekend.)
What would be interesting is, to see what I’ll be paying Yiannis and compare that to Starbucks. When I was there today, I spent 3 hours there and during that time I had once coffee, one whole-wheat chocolate chip cookie and one fresh orange juice. This came to 8 euros.
If on the street the cost for internet cafι is 2.50 euros and Yiannis charges me 2 euros, that means for three hours I would pay him 6 euros. So for only 2 euros I get all this to drink, it would be better at Starbucks. If the regular cafι is 2.50 it would mean for only 1 euro I would get all these drinks (since, like I said, Starbucks is free).
When I left Starbucks, there were 10 of us with computers there.
When I got home, Jayne didn’t want to go to the beach. Later on in the afternoon we took a walk to the bakery to get some sandwiches.
Monday September 14
I took my computer to the store today. When I told the woman (owner) of what I want done, she said, ‘Do you have the key to this,’ or ‘If you bought this program, you’d have a key.’ I told her I bought it, but everything is on the computer. I just couldn’t install it.
Also, the Microsoft program expired. She would not put programs on the computer.
I said when you download something on the internet you don’t have a paper reciept or a paper copy of the key. She told me, ‘Come back here’ indicating the back room. She showed me an article that said ‘Microsoft comes and said that 53% of the programs are copies.’
Well, I understand her being so defensive.
Who knows, maybe someone they thought they could trust turned them in and they had to pay a fine, or are just simply scared.
Tuesday September 15
I picked up my computer today. They didn’t put on the programs that I had copies of.
Yiannis still didn’t get anything done about our registration to live here. So Jayne and I thought it better to try elsewhere. I told her about the company that I used before, and we’ll go there tomorrow.
Wednesday September 16
This morning at 9am we went out to go to Stalagmite where they take care immigration. We got a taxi, and is it turned out the guy is from Kasacistan. (I heard Russian on the radio and he asked me if I knew Russian after I made a comment to Jayne.)
As it turned out the company had moved from the address they were at the last time. However, the phone number was the same.
We were told that we would have to meet with some government person because of our marriage. She said that the meeting will not take place until something like 16 of November!
We were told the price of everything and what we need.
I then called the same taxi guy again. He came and took us to Cytanet. He took us to a new office in down town Limassol. I’m glad he knew were it was, as their other office might have closed down.
I got a phone and a number (pay as you go). Plus I added another 10 euros on it. Now friends can get a hold of both of us.
Then I called the taxi again and we went home.
I must have paid about 28 euros on the rides.
It looks like we have to go back tomorrow to the Stalagmite with the marriage certificate, as this has to be translated by someone the government.
We went to Starbucks so I could do work on my computer, but the connection was so slow that I had to go to Yiannis’ internet cafι to continue. However, there were some things I couldn’t do as it has to be done on my computer.
Earthquake rocks Cyprus
About 5:05pm an earthquake hit here. It was a good shake that lasted about 1-2 seconds. The neighbors came out of their flats. I was sitting in a chair in the lobby when it it. The chair shook and the floor, too.
Jayne came out of our flat, which is in the same building of where I was, but it’s on the third floor (fourth floor in America). And she was bending over to open the refrigerator door.
This is only the second earthquake I felt in Cyprus of all the time I lived here. The last time wasn’t as bad as this one. However, nothing broke or buildings damaged (from what I could see).
When I got in the flat about 6pm, shortly thereafter there was a small after shock. After dinner there was another one (about 7.40pm).
I had called Clive in Pafos before the last aftershock. I had called him on another matter, and I asked if they felt an earthquake and he said no.
Thursday September 17
We went to the bank and asked for my back card, and the teller gave it to me.
Then we took a taxi to Debenham’s. we were going to go by bus, but because there was another couple there, the taxi man said it will only cost 2 euros each (he said that by bus it would be 1.70 euros). So, for the price it was worth it.
We looked around the store, and didn’t find what we wanted. Then we went to the cafι they have on the 3rd floor. I turned around and saw my old barber there. I said I saw that you closed down and he said yes, and that it was about time he retired. He wasn’t friendly, but he is a very negative person so that is his problem.
Then we went to the supermarket that’s in the store. We bought some things that we can’t buy in the local market by the apartments.
From there we looked for the bookshop. I told Jayne I hope it’s still there. I found it but they moved to the other side of the building they are in.
We found some books to buy that looked interesting. I asked the woman in the shop if this other couple still comes by and works there. She said yes. (This is Linda and Roberto.) in fact, she called Linda to tell her that I’m here. I found out that her husband is too ill to come in, which I’m sorry to hear. I have to come another day when she comes to work.
Then we took a taxi home, which cost 6 euros!
Friday September 18
I went to the other coffee shop that has internet that is near Starbucks. When I went inside I saw the guy who used to be the manager of Starbucks. We shook hands and I said that I thought he was going to Brazil with his wife. He said that he didn’t but didn’t like it there.
We didn’t have much time to talk, so I said when he has time to come by (the table) and talk.
I asked if they had internet there and he said yes. So, I went upstairs (as that is where they have electrical outlets). I ordered my filter coffee - which cost 4.50 euros! What a rip off.
I couldn’t get connected, so I asked the waiter. He said he’ll tell the manager. Well, he didn’t come, so I guess he was busy. Even if the waiter forgot to tell him, the manager that I know, knows that I’m upstairs, so I guess he is busy.
I was determined to work on the internet so I went with my computer to the internet cafι down the street. This one has its own computers and is not wireless.
It seems like the wireless places here are next to useless.
This cafι is owned by Russians. It’s a big place and they rented a place next door, but you have to go outside to go into the one next door. They are they same cafι with computers.
Again, like most places run by Russians, they are not friendly at all. Typical Russian. I noticed that even though I was the only one on the computer all the computer screens were on. Only now and then did someone else come in to use a computer. I’d say that there must be about 30 computers.
I thought about this, and I came to the conclusion, that indeed this is either a place where they launder money or simply have a lot of money to burn (witness the waste of electricity). I know the Russians, and the rich one act like this: they will buy something or do something, even if it wastes money so as to say to the world ‘I can afford this’.
This is the way rich Russians think. If it was owned by someone who makes money from a business like this, first, they would not get more computers than what they need. They also would have the other computers turned off so their electric bill will not be high. Here we see that the person who owns this is not where they get their money from, but it’s from another source.
Saturday September 19
I went the Yiannis’ office to on the internet. He was not in but his worker, Agnes, was.
Later in the day, Jayne and I saw that they are setting up a wedding at the Valana hotel. It looks like there will be about 500 people. I’ll take some pictures and videos, if it’s not too dark. The people that are having the wedding must be locals. Maybe some are at the hotel, but I know that all are not there, as this 2-star hotel can’t hold them all.
It looks like we won’t get any sleep tonight.
I connected to Skype and later Richard came online. I put the video camera on and we had a nice chat but we couldn’t complete the conversation as the call cut out and I couldn’t connect.
I paid for a website on Viviun again to advertise my home. I just paid for three months this time. I don’t expect it on long as I reduced the price 20%, so I should have a buyer soon.
Later, I’ll put an ad for the flat, too.
I found out when I was putting the page together that I didn’t have the pictures that I took of it. What happened was that the pictures I took after all the work was done, was put on my computer but I didn’t make a copy to my external hard drive. As the thief, Gonzalo, stole the computer.
I had to write to Matt to take pictures of the home, compress them and send them to my email address. I also want him to take pictures of the flat. I hope he does a good job - he certainly didn’t do one when he took pictures of Jayne’s pictures.
Sunday September 20
The wedding kept us up last night. Though the music stopped at midnight, we heard the noise of the clean up crew taking the chairs and tables down.
I woke up when the music was loud, and they were playing Whitney Huston’s song. At that time I took a video of the couple dancing. I also took other pictures.
We got up early. I asked Jayne if she wanted to go to the beach and she said at she was too tired. So I went alone. I left about 8.30 and was on the beach until 12.30pm. I swam twice.
Then I went to the bakery to buy some food, then I bought some beer at the local market before I went home.
Monday September 21
Today Yiannis took us to the office where we have to make an appointment. This wasin Limassol. We were given a date of Nov 28 at 10am. So, it's a long time away. We were told that there would be no problem as my tourist visa is still good.
There will be other work we have to get done such as, having the marriage certificate translated into Greek and to show we have enough money in the bank to live here. At least I have to show this, as there is no restriction on an EU member, which Jayne is. I also have to get health insurance.
Tuesday September 22
Today Jayne and I went to old Limassol to do some shopping. I have to buy a jacket and a sweater as I didn’t have the space to bring any with me. When winter comes I don’t want to be cold.First, we saw an art shop where Jayne bought some supplies. Then I got a hair cut (10 euros). Then we went to get something to drink and eat. I found on cheap jacket, which is thin, but it will do if it’s only chilly. The sweaters that stores sell are all thin and expensive. I don’t know what people do when it’s cold – wear a couple of shirts? They must, but it’s strange.
I found a bag that would be good to carry my computer in and my papers. This cost me 26 euros.
Then we got a taxi back to the tourist area. We went to the jewelry store where I bought some jewelry before and asked if they could put a battery in the watch (that Jayne found). The woman said no, but told me to go to a store that is near Papa’s (a place that I know). She remembers me.
We got back to Yiannis’ office before Agus closed, so I’m able to be there while she’s at lunch.
I got a call from Clive when we were in town and he invited us to his son’s birthday party. It will be at the Cookoo’s Nest this Thursday. Angela will pick us up at the Castle and take us there (which is in old Limassol; a place I’ve been to many times). So, I look forward to seeing my other friends.
DIARY ENTRY MISSING!
There is a big section of my diary missing. This is strange! Firstly, there is the section from September 23 to October.
Secondary, there is the first part of the year January 2009 to May ( I had already written about this).
Thirdly, there is the year 2008 missing. I had started this diary shortly before I got married on July 5, 2008.
now to catch up
Monday 28 September
We went to Troodos mountains. It was the first time that Jayne had been there.
Tuesday 29 September
Agnus allowed me to go to get my things out of storage. It was good to see them. Including in my things were two printers. I'm glad now that I didn't sell anything. I didn't take everything out as it would have been too much, as there is no place to put it all in the small studio that we live in. so, I just got the printers out.
I hope they work.
Wednesday 30 September
Nothing to write about.
Jayne didn’t want to go to star bucks, so I went by myself. I suggested that we go in the morning there, and in the late afternoon go to the beach.
I wanted to get some work done - setting up an internet business. Since Yainnis’ office is closed today, I thought I could go to Starbucks. (In fact, Yiannis office was closed most of the day yesterday. It looks like I’ll have to use Starbucks on the weekend.)
What would be interesting is, to see what I’ll be paying Yiannis and compare that to Starbucks. When I was there today, I spent 3 hours there and during that time I had once coffee, one whole-wheat chocolate chip cookie and one fresh orange juice. This came to 8 euros.
If on the street the cost for internet cafι is 2.50 euros and Yiannis charges me 2 euros, that means for three hours I would pay him 6 euros. So for only 2 euros I get all this to drink, it would be better at Starbucks. If the regular cafι is 2.50 it would mean for only 1 euro I would get all these drinks (since, like I said, Starbucks is free).
When I left Starbucks, there were 10 of us with computers there.
When I got home, Jayne didn’t want to go to the beach. Later on in the afternoon we took a walk to the bakery to get some sandwiches.
Monday September 14
I took my computer to the store today. When I told the woman (owner) of what I want done, she said, ‘Do you have the key to this,’ or ‘If you bought this program, you’d have a key.’ I told her I bought it, but everything is on the computer. I just couldn’t install it.
Also, the Microsoft program expired. She would not put programs on the computer.
I said when you download something on the internet you don’t have a paper reciept or a paper copy of the key. She told me, ‘Come back here’ indicating the back room. She showed me an article that said ‘Microsoft comes and said that 53% of the programs are copies.’
Well, I understand her being so defensive.
Who knows, maybe someone they thought they could trust turned them in and they had to pay a fine, or are just simply scared.
Tuesday September 15
I picked up my computer today. They didn’t put on the programs that I had copies of.
Yiannis still didn’t get anything done about our registration to live here. So Jayne and I thought it better to try elsewhere. I told her about the company that I used before, and we’ll go there tomorrow.
Wednesday September 16
This morning at 9am we went out to go to Stalagmite where they take care immigration. We got a taxi, and is it turned out the guy is from Kasacistan. (I heard Russian on the radio and he asked me if I knew Russian after I made a comment to Jayne.)
As it turned out the company had moved from the address they were at the last time. However, the phone number was the same.
We were told that we would have to meet with some government person because of our marriage. She said that the meeting will not take place until something like 16 of November!
We were told the price of everything and what we need.
I then called the same taxi guy again. He came and took us to Cytanet. He took us to a new office in down town Limassol. I’m glad he knew were it was, as their other office might have closed down.
I got a phone and a number (pay as you go). Plus I added another 10 euros on it. Now friends can get a hold of both of us.
Then I called the taxi again and we went home.
I must have paid about 28 euros on the rides.
It looks like we have to go back tomorrow to the Stalagmite with the marriage certificate, as this has to be translated by someone the government.
We went to Starbucks so I could do work on my computer, but the connection was so slow that I had to go to Yiannis’ internet cafι to continue. However, there were some things I couldn’t do as it has to be done on my computer.
Earthquake rocks Cyprus
About 5:05pm an earthquake hit here. It was a good shake that lasted about 1-2 seconds. The neighbors came out of their flats. I was sitting in a chair in the lobby when it it. The chair shook and the floor, too.
Jayne came out of our flat, which is in the same building of where I was, but it’s on the third floor (fourth floor in America). And she was bending over to open the refrigerator door.
This is only the second earthquake I felt in Cyprus of all the time I lived here. The last time wasn’t as bad as this one. However, nothing broke or buildings damaged (from what I could see).
When I got in the flat about 6pm, shortly thereafter there was a small after shock. After dinner there was another one (about 7.40pm).
I had called Clive in Pafos before the last aftershock. I had called him on another matter, and I asked if they felt an earthquake and he said no.
Thursday September 17
We went to the bank and asked for my back card, and the teller gave it to me.
Then we took a taxi to Debenham’s. we were going to go by bus, but because there was another couple there, the taxi man said it will only cost 2 euros each (he said that by bus it would be 1.70 euros). So, for the price it was worth it.
We looked around the store, and didn’t find what we wanted. Then we went to the cafι they have on the 3rd floor. I turned around and saw my old barber there. I said I saw that you closed down and he said yes, and that it was about time he retired. He wasn’t friendly, but he is a very negative person so that is his problem.
Then we went to the supermarket that’s in the store. We bought some things that we can’t buy in the local market by the apartments.
From there we looked for the bookshop. I told Jayne I hope it’s still there. I found it but they moved to the other side of the building they are in.
We found some books to buy that looked interesting. I asked the woman in the shop if this other couple still comes by and works there. She said yes. (This is Linda and Roberto.) in fact, she called Linda to tell her that I’m here. I found out that her husband is too ill to come in, which I’m sorry to hear. I have to come another day when she comes to work.
Then we took a taxi home, which cost 6 euros!
Friday September 18
I went to the other coffee shop that has internet that is near Starbucks. When I went inside I saw the guy who used to be the manager of Starbucks. We shook hands and I said that I thought he was going to Brazil with his wife. He said that he didn’t but didn’t like it there.
We didn’t have much time to talk, so I said when he has time to come by (the table) and talk.
I asked if they had internet there and he said yes. So, I went upstairs (as that is where they have electrical outlets). I ordered my filter coffee - which cost 4.50 euros! What a rip off.
I couldn’t get connected, so I asked the waiter. He said he’ll tell the manager. Well, he didn’t come, so I guess he was busy. Even if the waiter forgot to tell him, the manager that I know, knows that I’m upstairs, so I guess he is busy.
I was determined to work on the internet so I went with my computer to the internet cafι down the street. This one has its own computers and is not wireless.
It seems like the wireless places here are next to useless.
This cafι is owned by Russians. It’s a big place and they rented a place next door, but you have to go outside to go into the one next door. They are they same cafι with computers.
Again, like most places run by Russians, they are not friendly at all. Typical Russian. I noticed that even though I was the only one on the computer all the computer screens were on. Only now and then did someone else come in to use a computer. I’d say that there must be about 30 computers.
I thought about this, and I came to the conclusion, that indeed this is either a place where they launder money or simply have a lot of money to burn (witness the waste of electricity). I know the Russians, and the rich one act like this: they will buy something or do something, even if it wastes money so as to say to the world ‘I can afford this’.
This is the way rich Russians think. If it was owned by someone who makes money from a business like this, first, they would not get more computers than what they need. They also would have the other computers turned off so their electric bill will not be high. Here we see that the person who owns this is not where they get their money from, but it’s from another source.
Saturday September 19
I went the Yiannis’ office to on the internet. He was not in but his worker, Agnes, was.
Later in the day, Jayne and I saw that they are setting up a wedding at the Valana hotel. It looks like there will be about 500 people. I’ll take some pictures and videos, if it’s not too dark. The people that are having the wedding must be locals. Maybe some are at the hotel, but I know that all are not there, as this 2-star hotel can’t hold them all.
It looks like we won’t get any sleep tonight.
I connected to Skype and later Richard came online. I put the video camera on and we had a nice chat but we couldn’t complete the conversation as the call cut out and I couldn’t connect.
I paid for a website on Viviun again to advertise my home. I just paid for three months this time. I don’t expect it on long as I reduced the price 20%, so I should have a buyer soon.
Later, I’ll put an ad for the flat, too.
I found out when I was putting the page together that I didn’t have the pictures that I took of it. What happened was that the pictures I took after all the work was done, was put on my computer but I didn’t make a copy to my external hard drive. As the thief, Gonzalo, stole the computer.
I had to write to Matt to take pictures of the home, compress them and send them to my email address. I also want him to take pictures of the flat. I hope he does a good job - he certainly didn’t do one when he took pictures of Jayne’s pictures.
Sunday September 20
The wedding kept us up last night. Though the music stopped at midnight, we heard the noise of the clean up crew taking the chairs and tables down.
I woke up when the music was loud, and they were playing Whitney Huston’s song. At that time I took a video of the couple dancing. I also took other pictures.
We got up early. I asked Jayne if she wanted to go to the beach and she said at she was too tired. So I went alone. I left about 8.30 and was on the beach until 12.30pm. I swam twice.
Then I went to the bakery to buy some food, then I bought some beer at the local market before I went home.
Monday September 21
Today Yiannis took us to the office where we have to make an appointment. This wasin Limassol. We were given a date of Nov 28 at 10am. So, it's a long time away. We were told that there would be no problem as my tourist visa is still good.
There will be other work we have to get done such as, having the marriage certificate translated into Greek and to show we have enough money in the bank to live here. At least I have to show this, as there is no restriction on an EU member, which Jayne is. I also have to get health insurance.
Tuesday September 22
Today Jayne and I went to old Limassol to do some shopping. I have to buy a jacket and a sweater as I didn’t have the space to bring any with me. When winter comes I don’t want to be cold.First, we saw an art shop where Jayne bought some supplies. Then I got a hair cut (10 euros). Then we went to get something to drink and eat. I found on cheap jacket, which is thin, but it will do if it’s only chilly. The sweaters that stores sell are all thin and expensive. I don’t know what people do when it’s cold – wear a couple of shirts? They must, but it’s strange.
I found a bag that would be good to carry my computer in and my papers. This cost me 26 euros.
Then we got a taxi back to the tourist area. We went to the jewelry store where I bought some jewelry before and asked if they could put a battery in the watch (that Jayne found). The woman said no, but told me to go to a store that is near Papa’s (a place that I know). She remembers me.
We got back to Yiannis’ office before Agus closed, so I’m able to be there while she’s at lunch.
I got a call from Clive when we were in town and he invited us to his son’s birthday party. It will be at the Cookoo’s Nest this Thursday. Angela will pick us up at the Castle and take us there (which is in old Limassol; a place I’ve been to many times). So, I look forward to seeing my other friends.
DIARY ENTRY MISSING!
There is a big section of my diary missing. This is strange! Firstly, there is the section from September 23 to October.
Secondary, there is the first part of the year January 2009 to May ( I had already written about this).
Thirdly, there is the year 2008 missing. I had started this diary shortly before I got married on July 5, 2008.
now to catch up
Monday 28 September
We went to Troodos mountains. It was the first time that Jayne had been there.
Tuesday 29 September
Agnus allowed me to go to get my things out of storage. It was good to see them. Including in my things were two printers. I'm glad now that I didn't sell anything. I didn't take everything out as it would have been too much, as there is no place to put it all in the small studio that we live in. so, I just got the printers out.
I hope they work.
Wednesday 30 September
Nothing to write about.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
First Weekend in Cyprus
Saturday September 12
Jayne and I went to Starbucks as she wanted to go there to go on the internet. We found out that the internet there is free. (Actually, when we stopped in on Thursday, I asked was told this.) this is great, as it saves money.
When I was here 2.5 years ago, it cost 1.50 per hour. So, in other shops it should be around 2 - 2.5 euros an hour. (I’ll find out when I stop in to be curious.)
We took our computers spent about two hours there. Since it was Saturday, there was a lot of people there. If we go during the week in the morning, there would be few people there.
I called Clive to tell him of Jayne’s new cell phone and we said our goodbyes.
Sunday September 13
Jayne didn’t want to go to star bucks, so I went by myself. I suggested that we go in the morning there, and in the late afternoon go to the beach.
I wanted to get some work done - setting up an internet business. Since Yainnis’ office is closed today, I thought I could go to Starbucks. (In fact, Yiannis office was closed most of the day yesterday. It looks like I’ll have to use Starbucks on the weekend.)
What would be interesting is, to see what I’ll be paying Yiannis and compare that to Starbucks. When I was there today, I spent 3 hours there and during that time I had once coffee, one whole-wheat chocolate chip cookie and one fresh orange juice. This came to 8 euros.
If on the street the cost for internet cafι is 2.50 euros and Yiannis charges me 2 euros, that means for three hours I would pay him 6 euros. So for only 2 euros I get all this to drink, it would be better at Starbucks. If the regular cafι is 2.50 it would mean for only 1 euro I would get all these drinks (since, like I said, Starbucks is free).
When I left Starbucks, there were 10 of us with computers there.
When I got home, Jayne didn’t want to go to the beach. Later on in the afternoon we took a walk to the bakery to get some sandwiches.
Jayne and I went to Starbucks as she wanted to go there to go on the internet. We found out that the internet there is free. (Actually, when we stopped in on Thursday, I asked was told this.) this is great, as it saves money.
When I was here 2.5 years ago, it cost 1.50 per hour. So, in other shops it should be around 2 - 2.5 euros an hour. (I’ll find out when I stop in to be curious.)
We took our computers spent about two hours there. Since it was Saturday, there was a lot of people there. If we go during the week in the morning, there would be few people there.
I called Clive to tell him of Jayne’s new cell phone and we said our goodbyes.
Sunday September 13
Jayne didn’t want to go to star bucks, so I went by myself. I suggested that we go in the morning there, and in the late afternoon go to the beach.
I wanted to get some work done - setting up an internet business. Since Yainnis’ office is closed today, I thought I could go to Starbucks. (In fact, Yiannis office was closed most of the day yesterday. It looks like I’ll have to use Starbucks on the weekend.)
What would be interesting is, to see what I’ll be paying Yiannis and compare that to Starbucks. When I was there today, I spent 3 hours there and during that time I had once coffee, one whole-wheat chocolate chip cookie and one fresh orange juice. This came to 8 euros.
If on the street the cost for internet cafι is 2.50 euros and Yiannis charges me 2 euros, that means for three hours I would pay him 6 euros. So for only 2 euros I get all this to drink, it would be better at Starbucks. If the regular cafι is 2.50 it would mean for only 1 euro I would get all these drinks (since, like I said, Starbucks is free).
When I left Starbucks, there were 10 of us with computers there.
When I got home, Jayne didn’t want to go to the beach. Later on in the afternoon we took a walk to the bakery to get some sandwiches.
Breakfast at the Atlantica
The hotel breakfast cost 8.50 euros each. It's a lot for breakfast, but I would recommend it if you are hungry as there is a lot to eat and it's very good.
Breakfast at a Hotel
(Note: These postings are in the month of October, as you can see. The reason is that it's been a month since I've posted anything.)Friday September 11
Jayne and I went to what used to be called the Marimare Hotel for breakfast. It has been bought by the Altantic Hotel, so it now has this name.
The cost of the breakfast was 17 euros for both of us. In general with all the stores, I’ve seen that the prices have increased more than just the exchange rate. Well, that’s what they get when they joined the EU!
We walked along the beach from the Marimare to the public section that has a park. I wanted Jayne to see this, too. We walked to where the computer store was. At this time I didn’t know if it was still opened but with an exchange of ownership, or if it closed down, or if it moved some place else.
Then I saw the same name on the outside!
When I went inside, I saw the same owner (the wife of the couple that owns it). I was glad to see her and she was surprised to see me.
Their plans a couple of years ago was to move to Austrailia. She told me that they were accepted but the decided to turn it down (I doubt that as it’s hard to get into the country). Anyhow, she said that they already have a profitable business here and that it’s close to Europe. This, they are right in.
They had plans to find a buyer who would also service computers, so this is what I was hoping for.
Now, it has turned out better.
I bought a keyboard there and I told Alena that I will be back Monday to bring in my computer. Jayne’s computer needs to be taken in, too.
The husband, Illyia, wasn’t in (usually he makes service calls in the morning). And I’ll bring the computer in Monday so I can at least have it for the weekend.
On the way back, I noticed that my barber closed his shop as some other store was there. I’ll have to find another one.
We walked passed the old flat I had before, and from the looks of it it looks like someone is in it.
We stopped in to see Yiannis. He said that if we want, we could stay in the studio for a month and pay him for that time. This will give us more time to look for another place. This will be good as we don’t want to rush into things.
We then went on the computers that Yiannis has at his office (his internet cafι). I told Yiannis I would be spending a lot of time on the internet as this is by business and if I could pay him. He said yes, and will give me a discount. I don’t know how much, as I don’t know the new prices now in Cyprus. But even if he charged me the regular price I would be happy to pay him as I’m helping a friend. Since it’s right in the same building it’s very convenient.
Jayne and I went out later to a nearby store to buy a sim card for her phone. Now that she has a number others can contact us.
Jayne and Yiannis
Picture taken on our first day in Cyprus (September 10)
Yiannis' office. This is where I do a lot of my work, too.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Friends in Cyprus
Thursday September 10
I saw that Jayne was up about 7.30am, and thought that was early. I got up, too. Anyhow, it was half way through the day that I realized if forgot to set my watch two hours ahead.
We went out to get some coffee. As we walked passed Yiannis’ office in the apart.. Complex I saw him and he saw us.
We went inside and greeted each other. I saw Agnus, there, too (his worker). It was great to see him.
The office had been done up real nice since I was last there. He also has other work being done on the building. I noticed that he closed off the entrance to the Valana Hotel.
After we chatted awhile, we went to get some breakfast at a place called Shakespeare. Then we went to my bank to take care of bank business. I noticed when we walked down the main street that there were three new coffee cafes. I mean this is really getting crazy - they were all next to each other, too. There is another section where there is a row of coffee cafes (as I call them).
I got everything straighten out. In fact, the guy remembered that he sent the bank cards to Ecuador.
Then Jayne and I started walking some more. We stopped at Starbucks. I just had coffee and Jayne didn’t have anything. Since we didn’t have coffee with our breakfast, I thought I would get one now. Anyhow, the small cappuccino was 3.50 eruos.
I realized at this time that my watch was wrong. I said let’s go and see Clive and Mary as we were to meet them for lunch. I saw Clive washing the car.
We all had a nice chat and drinks at the hotel that they are staying at (until Saturday). Then we walked over to see Yiannis, as Clive and Mary hadn’t seen him since they were last here.
Yiannis has an internet cafι there. I had told him when he first opened up the western union office there, that he would be good to put some computers there for internet. I mentioned that to him today, and he said, ‘Was that you who told me?’ And I said yes.
I saw that Jayne was up about 7.30am, and thought that was early. I got up, too. Anyhow, it was half way through the day that I realized if forgot to set my watch two hours ahead.
We went out to get some coffee. As we walked passed Yiannis’ office in the apart.. Complex I saw him and he saw us.
We went inside and greeted each other. I saw Agnus, there, too (his worker). It was great to see him.
The office had been done up real nice since I was last there. He also has other work being done on the building. I noticed that he closed off the entrance to the Valana Hotel.
After we chatted awhile, we went to get some breakfast at a place called Shakespeare. Then we went to my bank to take care of bank business. I noticed when we walked down the main street that there were three new coffee cafes. I mean this is really getting crazy - they were all next to each other, too. There is another section where there is a row of coffee cafes (as I call them).
I got everything straighten out. In fact, the guy remembered that he sent the bank cards to Ecuador.
Then Jayne and I started walking some more. We stopped at Starbucks. I just had coffee and Jayne didn’t have anything. Since we didn’t have coffee with our breakfast, I thought I would get one now. Anyhow, the small cappuccino was 3.50 eruos.
I realized at this time that my watch was wrong. I said let’s go and see Clive and Mary as we were to meet them for lunch. I saw Clive washing the car.
We all had a nice chat and drinks at the hotel that they are staying at (until Saturday). Then we walked over to see Yiannis, as Clive and Mary hadn’t seen him since they were last here.
Yiannis has an internet cafι there. I had told him when he first opened up the western union office there, that he would be good to put some computers there for internet. I mentioned that to him today, and he said, ‘Was that you who told me?’ And I said yes.
We Leave for Cyprus
Wednesday September 9
I got a call from Clive to say that Norman will not be able to pick us up at the airport as he’s in hospital with a chest infection. He said that Norman’s wife will pick them up at Pafos and take them to Limassol. Then Clive said he’ll pick us up at Larnaka airport, using Norman’s wife’s car.
This is very nice of them, as they would be getting in limas sol only a couple of hours before.
I got up about 6.30am and started to get ready for our trip. I woke Jayne up at 8.00am.
The taxi arrived about noon and the cost to the airport was £35 , which isn’t bad. It took the drive a while to get to Kinver and it took 45 minutes to the airport.
Since we had plenty of time, we had something to eat, then went to another place to read the newspaper.
The plane departed on time about 6pm.
When we got in, I thought I would have to fill out a landing form, but I didn’t. the customs guy did look at my passport longer, then looked for a page to put the stamp inside. That was the fastest I’ve been through an airport in the EU.
The baggage took about 30 minutes to come in. I don’t know what the wait was for. It came in in dribs and drabs.
I saw Mary in the crowd. We kissed and hugged and I interdicted her to Jayne. Mary called Clive to bring the car around. Then we headed back to Limassol.
Clive took us to an all night bakery so we could buy something for the morning. This was nice of him. Then he took us to Yiannis’ apartment complex. Mary gave me the key at that time (room 306).
We all took the luggage to the room. It’s a studio flat with a double bed, sofa and kitchen table. It also has a little balcony with a view of the Valana Hotel.
It was about 2am local time. (when we arrived it was about 12.30am, which made the flight about 4.15 long)
I got a call from Clive to say that Norman will not be able to pick us up at the airport as he’s in hospital with a chest infection. He said that Norman’s wife will pick them up at Pafos and take them to Limassol. Then Clive said he’ll pick us up at Larnaka airport, using Norman’s wife’s car.
This is very nice of them, as they would be getting in limas sol only a couple of hours before.
I got up about 6.30am and started to get ready for our trip. I woke Jayne up at 8.00am.
The taxi arrived about noon and the cost to the airport was £35 , which isn’t bad. It took the drive a while to get to Kinver and it took 45 minutes to the airport.
Since we had plenty of time, we had something to eat, then went to another place to read the newspaper.
The plane departed on time about 6pm.
When we got in, I thought I would have to fill out a landing form, but I didn’t. the customs guy did look at my passport longer, then looked for a page to put the stamp inside. That was the fastest I’ve been through an airport in the EU.
The baggage took about 30 minutes to come in. I don’t know what the wait was for. It came in in dribs and drabs.
I saw Mary in the crowd. We kissed and hugged and I interdicted her to Jayne. Mary called Clive to bring the car around. Then we headed back to Limassol.
Clive took us to an all night bakery so we could buy something for the morning. This was nice of him. Then he took us to Yiannis’ apartment complex. Mary gave me the key at that time (room 306).
We all took the luggage to the room. It’s a studio flat with a double bed, sofa and kitchen table. It also has a little balcony with a view of the Valana Hotel.
It was about 2am local time. (when we arrived it was about 12.30am, which made the flight about 4.15 long)
Guests
Sunday August 30
Steve came over with his girlfriend. He had bought steaks and fish over that Lil had bought. Lil didn’t want to come back so she gave what she bought to Steve. Thus, Jayne cooked the food.
Steve’s girlfriend is not social, as she didn’t talk much, hardly looked up from her food and didn’t say anything about the food after she ate. No manners.
I called my Mother but there was no answer. Then I called Clive to see about if his friend who will be picking us up at the airpot if he could get the keys to the flat we’ll be moving in - as it will be too late to see Yiannis about it when we come in, which will be about 1.30am.
Clive said he already asked his friend to give Yiannis a call.
Then I called Yiannis to see what he found about the flat. I said that a guy will call him to pick up the keys to give to us. He said this person (Norman) already called him.
Yiannis said that he will be looking at the flat on the beach Monday and see if they can come down in price. He said they wanted 800 euros a month, but he will try to get it lower. This would be too high for us, though it would be good value if it’s compared to other three bedroom flats on the beach. We would have to look something further from the beach and something with one or two bedrooms. However, he can get it lower and it’s only a little more than something that is much less desirable, we’ll take it.
Yianni said that not to worry about staying at a place if it takes us longer to find something (assuming that the cost of the flat on the beach is too high). He said we can stay as long as we need to at his apartment complex. That was nice of him.
Steve came over with his girlfriend. He had bought steaks and fish over that Lil had bought. Lil didn’t want to come back so she gave what she bought to Steve. Thus, Jayne cooked the food.
Steve’s girlfriend is not social, as she didn’t talk much, hardly looked up from her food and didn’t say anything about the food after she ate. No manners.
I called my Mother but there was no answer. Then I called Clive to see about if his friend who will be picking us up at the airpot if he could get the keys to the flat we’ll be moving in - as it will be too late to see Yiannis about it when we come in, which will be about 1.30am.
Clive said he already asked his friend to give Yiannis a call.
Then I called Yiannis to see what he found about the flat. I said that a guy will call him to pick up the keys to give to us. He said this person (Norman) already called him.
Yiannis said that he will be looking at the flat on the beach Monday and see if they can come down in price. He said they wanted 800 euros a month, but he will try to get it lower. This would be too high for us, though it would be good value if it’s compared to other three bedroom flats on the beach. We would have to look something further from the beach and something with one or two bedrooms. However, he can get it lower and it’s only a little more than something that is much less desirable, we’ll take it.
Yianni said that not to worry about staying at a place if it takes us longer to find something (assuming that the cost of the flat on the beach is too high). He said we can stay as long as we need to at his apartment complex. That was nice of him.
Monday, August 31, 2009
August 28-30
Thursday August 27
(Note: This blogger is not working right for some reason, that is why the sentences don't go all the way across.)
Jayne and I went to Merry Hill to do some shopping. This is where they have a mall and other
stores next to the mall. We got some things that we need for the trip and also had a meal
there. It was good to get out.
Friday August 28
Richard had called on Skype and told us that he was taken before a judge about the dismissal
of Gallo and his workers and that he had to pay $9,000!
In Ecuador they have some sick law that almost guarantees an employee from being fired. The
lies were bad that even the opposing attorney was blushed. Anyhow, Richard was told by his
lawyer that this is the lowest settlement she had seen as he could have paid $140,000!
The fact, according to Richard, that Gallo stole and lied should be an open and close case
(as Richard is very honest). So he decided not to take it to a higher court as the ruling
could go another way.
If Ecuadorians had done this to someone else, they could be found floating down some river.
When Gallo worked for me I didn’t have this trouble, but then again, it was a small job and I
was always there to see the work. Had I had the money and had I wanted to build flats in the
plot of land next to my house, he could have stolen from me, as the job was bigger.
Glad I didn’t want to go through with it.
Richard is getting more and more sick of Ecuador each day. He’s waiting for his business
partner to say it’s ok to leave and start business somewhere else.
It just goes to show that most people in Ecuador will lie or steal - if given the chance!
Saturday August 29
We stayed home all day
Sunday August 30
Steve came over with his girlfriend. He had bought steaks and fish over that Lil had bought.
Lil didn’t want to come back so she gave what she bought to Steve. Thus, Jayne cooked the
food.
Steve’s girlfriend is not social, as she didn’t talk much, hardly looked up from her food and
didn’t say anything about the food after she ate. No manners.
I called my Mother but there was no answer. Then I called Clive to see about if his friend
who will be picking us up at the airpot if he could get the keys to the flat we’ll be moving
in - as it will be too late to see Yiannis about it when we come in, which will be about
1.30am.
Clive said he already asked his friend to give Yiannis a call.
Then I called Yiannis to see what he found about the flat. I said that a guy will call him to
pick up the keys to give to us. He said this person (Norman) already called him.
Yiannis said that he will be looking at the flat on the beach Monday and see if they can come
down in price. He said they wanted 800 euros a month, but he will try to get it lower. This
would be too high for us, though it would be good value if it’s compared to other three
bedroom flats on the beach. We would have to look something further from the beach and
something with one or two bedrooms. However, he can get it lower and it’s only a little more
than something that is much less desirable, we’ll take it.
Yianni said that not to worry about staying at a place if it takes us longer to find
something (assuming that the cost of the flat on the beach is too high). He said we can stay
as long as we need to at his apartment complex. That was nice of him.
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Tickets to Cyprus
Thursday August 20
Jayne got her passport with her married name on it. Hurrah!
I went to the village to the travel agency to see about ticket for Cyprus. The woman found a flight for 290 £ round trip per person. This will be on Sept 6 and leaves from Birmingham to Larnaka. I told her I would be back to pay for this.
In the evening I called Yianni to tell him that we are coming. He was glad to hear from me. I told him why I couldn’t get to Cyprus earlier.
Yianni didn’t offer his home, (I didn’t ask as I wanted him to offer). He said that his daughter will be getting married on Sept 3. So I presume that they are living at his house.
I asked him if he could check with the Valana Hotel to see if they have anything. He said he would but also said to check online with Olympic Holidays as this hotel goes through them (as most of them do in Cyprus).
I told him I’d call him back tomorrow
At this time, Jayne said that it might be better for me to fly ahead to find a flat before we arrive.
Friday August 21
I called Yianni and he said that the Valana wanted 50£ a night. He said that was high and said he probably could get something at a nicer hotel and get breakfast included for less than this. I asked him if he could look up the Tasianna, as I found this the cheapest online (which is also close to his office). He said he would.
The I thought after I call him to look for an apartment to rent. If he can find a place before I come, it will saving having to go to a hotel and spend extra money. As it is, I would need about two weeks in a hotel to give us time to find a flat to rent.
Yianni said that there is a studio available in the apartment complex that he owns. He said that maybe my wife will not like living in such a small space. But at least we know that he have a place ‘to hang our hats’ when we arrive.
I told him that I’ll buy the tickets tomorrow and give him a call in the evening again.
Saturday August 22
We got our flight tickets!
Lil had come home from being in her other house. She came in about 6.30am she told me. She had been away for about 10 days.
Jayne and I went to the village to buy tickets for Cyprus. She decided to leave with me, although she realizes that she might have to stay in a studio flat with me.
The agent did some looking, including the date that she gave me previously. She found another flight that is cheaper but it’s on another day, and the savings will be 60£! So we took that one. It flies out of Birmingham and arrives about 20 minutes past midnight. The price is 625£ which includes airport tax, and the extra we would have to pay for 5 kilos of weight. This is the price for both of us and for the extra weight. We are allowed 5 kilos carry on.
It’s a rip off in a way as the EU allows 20 kilos each.
Jayne paid with her debt card. I couldn’t pay with mine as mine expired. I’ll have to get a new one in Cyprus.
I know that Yianni will first offer the place for free (if we stay a short time), but I want to pay him. So if he charges it will be less than what he gets from others. Anyway we look at it it will be cheaper than a 2 star hotel, as we’ll be getting only a studio and be able to leave as soon as we find a flat of our own. With a hotel stay of two weeks we would have to pay in advance, so if we find something in one week, we’d still have that money out of our pocket.
Sunday August 23
Steve and his new girlfriend came over to deliver the furniture that Lil wanted here. So I helped him unload.
Bring more furniture over here is something that Jayne, Steve and I can’t understand. This was a bed, cabinet and refrigerator from the other house. The house here is literally full of furniture already as the walls of each room is lined with something.
The refrig was put in the garage, and the other furniture was put in one of the bedrooms. What we had to do was, put the mattress on top of the bed and the frame laying against it (the bed that’s already there).
The problem is, where will a guest sleep? Sometimes Jack, Andrew’s son stays over. Lil used to sleep in the room where the extra furniture was put in. now she’s in the smallest room.
Jayne told he that she doesn’t like to throw anything out - well I can see that!!
In the afternoon, I called my mother and we had a nice chat. I told her that we are going to Cyprus in September.
Later I called Clive to tell him the news. As it turned out, he and Mary will be going to Cyprus the same day. They will be on another airline from another airport (Gatwick) and be arriving earlier.
He told me that they will be staying at the Sunquest Hotel from the time of their arrival to Saturday. So, we will be able to meet, as we will be within walking distance. Once they move to their flat, they will be about one hour and 15 minutes away.
Then Clive called back later to say that he will ask his friends if they could pick us up. He said he’ll send me the details tomorrow. So, he asked about the details of our flight.
That would be very nice of his friends Mariel and Norman, as it will be 12.30 in the morning that we’ll arrive. I said I will pay them, but it’s still nice.
Now, the problem of getting our flat keys when we arrive will be solved, as they can pick up the key from Yianni.
Clive said that they know me as they stayed at the Valana Hotel when I did. I don’t recall them but when see their faces I’ll recognize them.
Jayne got her passport with her married name on it. Hurrah!
I went to the village to the travel agency to see about ticket for Cyprus. The woman found a flight for 290 £ round trip per person. This will be on Sept 6 and leaves from Birmingham to Larnaka. I told her I would be back to pay for this.
In the evening I called Yianni to tell him that we are coming. He was glad to hear from me. I told him why I couldn’t get to Cyprus earlier.
Yianni didn’t offer his home, (I didn’t ask as I wanted him to offer). He said that his daughter will be getting married on Sept 3. So I presume that they are living at his house.
I asked him if he could check with the Valana Hotel to see if they have anything. He said he would but also said to check online with Olympic Holidays as this hotel goes through them (as most of them do in Cyprus).
I told him I’d call him back tomorrow
At this time, Jayne said that it might be better for me to fly ahead to find a flat before we arrive.
Friday August 21
I called Yianni and he said that the Valana wanted 50£ a night. He said that was high and said he probably could get something at a nicer hotel and get breakfast included for less than this. I asked him if he could look up the Tasianna, as I found this the cheapest online (which is also close to his office). He said he would.
The I thought after I call him to look for an apartment to rent. If he can find a place before I come, it will saving having to go to a hotel and spend extra money. As it is, I would need about two weeks in a hotel to give us time to find a flat to rent.
Yianni said that there is a studio available in the apartment complex that he owns. He said that maybe my wife will not like living in such a small space. But at least we know that he have a place ‘to hang our hats’ when we arrive.
I told him that I’ll buy the tickets tomorrow and give him a call in the evening again.
Saturday August 22
We got our flight tickets!
Lil had come home from being in her other house. She came in about 6.30am she told me. She had been away for about 10 days.
Jayne and I went to the village to buy tickets for Cyprus. She decided to leave with me, although she realizes that she might have to stay in a studio flat with me.
The agent did some looking, including the date that she gave me previously. She found another flight that is cheaper but it’s on another day, and the savings will be 60£! So we took that one. It flies out of Birmingham and arrives about 20 minutes past midnight. The price is 625£ which includes airport tax, and the extra we would have to pay for 5 kilos of weight. This is the price for both of us and for the extra weight. We are allowed 5 kilos carry on.
It’s a rip off in a way as the EU allows 20 kilos each.
Jayne paid with her debt card. I couldn’t pay with mine as mine expired. I’ll have to get a new one in Cyprus.
I know that Yianni will first offer the place for free (if we stay a short time), but I want to pay him. So if he charges it will be less than what he gets from others. Anyway we look at it it will be cheaper than a 2 star hotel, as we’ll be getting only a studio and be able to leave as soon as we find a flat of our own. With a hotel stay of two weeks we would have to pay in advance, so if we find something in one week, we’d still have that money out of our pocket.
Sunday August 23
Steve and his new girlfriend came over to deliver the furniture that Lil wanted here. So I helped him unload.
Bring more furniture over here is something that Jayne, Steve and I can’t understand. This was a bed, cabinet and refrigerator from the other house. The house here is literally full of furniture already as the walls of each room is lined with something.
The refrig was put in the garage, and the other furniture was put in one of the bedrooms. What we had to do was, put the mattress on top of the bed and the frame laying against it (the bed that’s already there).
The problem is, where will a guest sleep? Sometimes Jack, Andrew’s son stays over. Lil used to sleep in the room where the extra furniture was put in. now she’s in the smallest room.
Jayne told he that she doesn’t like to throw anything out - well I can see that!!
In the afternoon, I called my mother and we had a nice chat. I told her that we are going to Cyprus in September.
Later I called Clive to tell him the news. As it turned out, he and Mary will be going to Cyprus the same day. They will be on another airline from another airport (Gatwick) and be arriving earlier.
He told me that they will be staying at the Sunquest Hotel from the time of their arrival to Saturday. So, we will be able to meet, as we will be within walking distance. Once they move to their flat, they will be about one hour and 15 minutes away.
Then Clive called back later to say that he will ask his friends if they could pick us up. He said he’ll send me the details tomorrow. So, he asked about the details of our flight.
That would be very nice of his friends Mariel and Norman, as it will be 12.30 in the morning that we’ll arrive. I said I will pay them, but it’s still nice.
Now, the problem of getting our flat keys when we arrive will be solved, as they can pick up the key from Yianni.
Clive said that they know me as they stayed at the Valana Hotel when I did. I don’t recall them but when see their faces I’ll recognize them.
Dishonest Worker
Wednesday August 19
Val came over for a visit (Lil’s sister) with a bottle of wine. Lil is still away at her other house.
Richard called on Skype. He told me that his worker (Gallo, who worked for me first) was fired. He said the he was stealing and also lied. It seems like even the ‘honest’ people are not honest in Ecuador. We had no problem when he worked for us, but then again, there wasn’t much materials he had to buy.
Anyhow, I feel sorry for Richard. Now he’ll have to find some other workers.
Val came over for a visit (Lil’s sister) with a bottle of wine. Lil is still away at her other house.
Richard called on Skype. He told me that his worker (Gallo, who worked for me first) was fired. He said the he was stealing and also lied. It seems like even the ‘honest’ people are not honest in Ecuador. We had no problem when he worked for us, but then again, there wasn’t much materials he had to buy.
Anyhow, I feel sorry for Richard. Now he’ll have to find some other workers.
House Caves
Sunday August 9
Jayne and I went to see the caves in Kinver here. To see the inside they are only open on Sunday from 2 – 4pm, as only volunteers work there. It cost 2 pounds each to get in. They had an exhibit room and there was only a two bedroom living quarters we saw. However, it does have the furniture that the people used who lived there.
I was told that the first people to move to this cave were in 1777, but there are other caves right next to it where other families lived. It was occupied from the 1850s to the 1960s.I took some pictures.
Everything looked very nice.
Then we went to the tea house, which is also build in a cave. However, the front look more like a house with pointed roofs that are build like something you’d see today. So, this must have been done years later.
We got to the tea house just in time, as they close at 4pm, too.
There is an outdoor eating area where we sat.
I was told that there are not many in England and that this one is probably the nicest. Then we walked to the village where we had something to eat in the pub.
Jayne and I went to see the caves in Kinver here. To see the inside they are only open on Sunday from 2 – 4pm, as only volunteers work there. It cost 2 pounds each to get in. They had an exhibit room and there was only a two bedroom living quarters we saw. However, it does have the furniture that the people used who lived there.
I was told that the first people to move to this cave were in 1777, but there are other caves right next to it where other families lived. It was occupied from the 1850s to the 1960s.I took some pictures.
Everything looked very nice.
Then we went to the tea house, which is also build in a cave. However, the front look more like a house with pointed roofs that are build like something you’d see today. So, this must have been done years later.
We got to the tea house just in time, as they close at 4pm, too.
There is an outdoor eating area where we sat.
I was told that there are not many in England and that this one is probably the nicest. Then we walked to the village where we had something to eat in the pub.
Catching up on my posts
Nearly a month has gone by since I posted anything here. Though it is near the end of August, I'll post some old files now. Many days are missing as there was nothing interesting to write about. I don't want to bore you guys!
Friday July 31
Jayne found out that she needs the document of our marriage certificate that we have to be translated. She found this online. At least she didn’t have to send it in to be told. What I did was go online to find something that translates into different languages. I found one that has free online translation.
What Jayne will do is make a form and translate the small document with few words and send this in along with her photos and money. The sooner we get this done the sooner we can move to Cyprus. I still hope we get there in August.
Sure, we save money while living here but we will eventually have to move to Cyprus. I have faith in God that the timing will be good. This delay could be good as the house may be sold by that time. This will give me some working capital until the first customers come in.
I will have to renew the website payment as if my house is sold by one of the many people who contacted me, I still have the flat to put up. So, when I do pay, I’ll have to buy a site for ‘Apartments for sale’.
I’ve done all I can do from here about my EFT business I plan to start. I’ll have to wait until I get there to get a printer, get an address that I can put on the printed literature, etc. I do have a business plan, now I just have to wait until I get there to put it in place.
Friday July 31
Jayne found out that she needs the document of our marriage certificate that we have to be translated. She found this online. At least she didn’t have to send it in to be told. What I did was go online to find something that translates into different languages. I found one that has free online translation.
What Jayne will do is make a form and translate the small document with few words and send this in along with her photos and money. The sooner we get this done the sooner we can move to Cyprus. I still hope we get there in August.
Sure, we save money while living here but we will eventually have to move to Cyprus. I have faith in God that the timing will be good. This delay could be good as the house may be sold by that time. This will give me some working capital until the first customers come in.
I will have to renew the website payment as if my house is sold by one of the many people who contacted me, I still have the flat to put up. So, when I do pay, I’ll have to buy a site for ‘Apartments for sale’.
I’ve done all I can do from here about my EFT business I plan to start. I’ll have to wait until I get there to get a printer, get an address that I can put on the printed literature, etc. I do have a business plan, now I just have to wait until I get there to put it in place.
Monday, July 27, 2009
Swine Flu Ingredients
This is what you will get if you get the swine flu shot. Do you want this in your body?
Not for me!
List Of Components Of Glaxo H1N1 Vaccine
BIOLOGICAL INDEX
chicken embryos (eggs)
influenza virus, H5N1
virus culture
CHEMICAL INDEX
alpha-tocopherol
aluminum adjuvant
AS03 adjuvant
Daronrix
disodium phosphate
formaldehyde
magnesium chloride
octoxynol 10
polysorbate 80 (Tween 80
potassium chloride
potassium dihydrogen phosphate
sodium chloride
sodium deoxycholate
squalene
thiomersal (thimerosol) (MERCURY)
vitamin E
The rest of the story...
http://birdflu666.wordpress.com:80/2009/07/18/glaxos-vaccine-
characterised-by-regulators-eu-and-usas-biodefense-stockpile-drug/
Migraine Treated
Sunday July 26
We stayed home all day, and I spent most of the time on the internet.
Val came over for Sunday lunch. Before we ate, Val said that Lil said that I could help her
with her headache. So, we went through the routine. Her pain level at that time was 6 (with
10 being the highest). After one round it was down to 4, then after another round it was down
to 0, which means no pain! She was surprised and wondered how it worked. I said (pointing to
the switch), ‘That we use many things and take it for granted and it works. This is like
using electricity, the TV or a car.’
I would like her to write a testimonial so I can add this to my list of people that I can
help.
The others had chicken and I had fish.
We stayed home all day, and I spent most of the time on the internet.
Val came over for Sunday lunch. Before we ate, Val said that Lil said that I could help her
with her headache. So, we went through the routine. Her pain level at that time was 6 (with
10 being the highest). After one round it was down to 4, then after another round it was down
to 0, which means no pain! She was surprised and wondered how it worked. I said (pointing to
the switch), ‘That we use many things and take it for granted and it works. This is like
using electricity, the TV or a car.’
I would like her to write a testimonial so I can add this to my list of people that I can
help.
The others had chicken and I had fish.
Leaving Spain
Saturday July 25
Today is when we leave Spain. We went to get something to eat and a newspaper. When we got
back we started cleaning the flat. We thought we would have time to take a swim in the pool
but we didn’t.
It’s more work checking out of a flat that you own than a hotel as you have all the cleaning
and laundry to do.
Carol came over on time and took us to the airport.
There was a long line when we got there.
We left about 6pm and arrived about 2.5 hours later.
I filled out the form for non-EU members on the plain and went to passport control. I was
asked all kinds of question. True to its word the UK is a police state. I had put down on the
form my occupation and because of this, I was asked all kinds of questions around this. Such
questions were:
What do you do?
Where did you live before?
Where will you be going to after you leave here?
What work did you do in Ecuador?
What will you be doing in Cyprus?
Do you have a work permit there?
I told her that my work permit is in England as I didn’t bring it with me.
Had I known of all these communist-type questions, I would have put down that I’m retired.
She probably would have asked me where my money is invested and how do I get paid.
I noticed that she didn’t type this into a computer but that the questioning was just to see
how I respond and that I was telling the truth. In fact, I haven’t taught in years and that I
will not teach be teaching English (which is what I told her). I will be teaching in a way,
but not English, but an alternative health cure. And since this will be my own business, I
won’t need a work permit.
Shortly after questioning, Jayne was finished with her passport check (which was next to
where I was) and came over to see me. I told the woman that this is my wife.
Steve was in the parking lot to pick us up. We found out that he had the swine flu, or at
least that is what he thought it was. He said it was real bad.
When we got back we were up for awhile talking to Lil. However, Steven went home after he
dropped us off.
So, ends out trip to Spain.
Today is when we leave Spain. We went to get something to eat and a newspaper. When we got
back we started cleaning the flat. We thought we would have time to take a swim in the pool
but we didn’t.
It’s more work checking out of a flat that you own than a hotel as you have all the cleaning
and laundry to do.
Carol came over on time and took us to the airport.
There was a long line when we got there.
We left about 6pm and arrived about 2.5 hours later.
I filled out the form for non-EU members on the plain and went to passport control. I was
asked all kinds of question. True to its word the UK is a police state. I had put down on the
form my occupation and because of this, I was asked all kinds of questions around this. Such
questions were:
What do you do?
Where did you live before?
Where will you be going to after you leave here?
What work did you do in Ecuador?
What will you be doing in Cyprus?
Do you have a work permit there?
I told her that my work permit is in England as I didn’t bring it with me.
Had I known of all these communist-type questions, I would have put down that I’m retired.
She probably would have asked me where my money is invested and how do I get paid.
I noticed that she didn’t type this into a computer but that the questioning was just to see
how I respond and that I was telling the truth. In fact, I haven’t taught in years and that I
will not teach be teaching English (which is what I told her). I will be teaching in a way,
but not English, but an alternative health cure. And since this will be my own business, I
won’t need a work permit.
Shortly after questioning, Jayne was finished with her passport check (which was next to
where I was) and came over to see me. I told the woman that this is my wife.
Steve was in the parking lot to pick us up. We found out that he had the swine flu, or at
least that is what he thought it was. He said it was real bad.
When we got back we were up for awhile talking to Lil. However, Steven went home after he
dropped us off.
So, ends out trip to Spain.
Monday, July 20, 2009
July 16-19
Thursday July 16
We went out and had a bit to eat. Then we went to the hairdresser where I got a haircut which cost 9 euros. The girl did a good job.
When we went to another place to get something to drink, Carol called to say she can pick Jayne up. Jayne had to see about the electric and why they charged so much. I stayed home when she went with Carol. When Jayne got back she said that the man was very nice and had things checkout for her.
Friday July 17
We went to the bank so Jayne could do some banking. I also changed two 100 euro notes to see if I would get the same problem as I did in England. There was no problem – thank God. I gave it to one teller and asked for 20s. Since she didn’t have any, she gave the bills to another teller. Then he gave me the 20s. Neither one of them took a careful look at it nor did they put in under some light. So, at least they take their own currency.
Then we ate at the restaurant that has internet. I brought my power cord and was able to plug it in there. There is only one outside connection, and I’m glad that we were able to sit which gave me more time on the net.
Saturday July 18
We went out to the store to buy a newspaper and have something to eat. I also bought a Russian newspaper so I don't lose more of the Russian I already have.
Sunday July 19
We did our regular routine – buying a newspaper (Daily Mail) and getting a snack at a restaurant.
Carol called to say that she will buy tickets to the ballet online. She likes the ballet but I don’t. Jayne said she will pay for her ticket, too. She said this because Carol’s help the other day without her charging for her time. The ballet will be tomorrow evening at 10pm – that’s if tickets are still available.
We went out and had a bit to eat. Then we went to the hairdresser where I got a haircut which cost 9 euros. The girl did a good job.
When we went to another place to get something to drink, Carol called to say she can pick Jayne up. Jayne had to see about the electric and why they charged so much. I stayed home when she went with Carol. When Jayne got back she said that the man was very nice and had things checkout for her.
Friday July 17
We went to the bank so Jayne could do some banking. I also changed two 100 euro notes to see if I would get the same problem as I did in England. There was no problem – thank God. I gave it to one teller and asked for 20s. Since she didn’t have any, she gave the bills to another teller. Then he gave me the 20s. Neither one of them took a careful look at it nor did they put in under some light. So, at least they take their own currency.
Then we ate at the restaurant that has internet. I brought my power cord and was able to plug it in there. There is only one outside connection, and I’m glad that we were able to sit which gave me more time on the net.
Saturday July 18
We went out to the store to buy a newspaper and have something to eat. I also bought a Russian newspaper so I don't lose more of the Russian I already have.
Sunday July 19
We did our regular routine – buying a newspaper (Daily Mail) and getting a snack at a restaurant.
Carol called to say that she will buy tickets to the ballet online. She likes the ballet but I don’t. Jayne said she will pay for her ticket, too. She said this because Carol’s help the other day without her charging for her time. The ballet will be tomorrow evening at 10pm – that’s if tickets are still available.
At the Beach with Carol
Sunday July 12
About 9.30am the cell phone rang. I answered it and it was Carol. She asked if we were going to the beach and I said yes. (I had invited her to meet when she was here last Sunday and go to the beach.)
Jayne and I planned to go to the Sunday market, and get the bus at 8am, but because we were up late last night watching a movie, we got up late this morning.
We met Carol on the beach. We got to the beach at about 11.30am and I thought that was late, but it was even later that a lot more people came to the beach. I see that the beach is only crowded on weekends. So, it’s an indication of a poor economy as most Spaniards come here by car on weekends.
We left about 2pm and went back to the apartment to shower. Then we went out to eat lunch. We treated Carol to lunch.
Carol drove us back and she went home.
In the evening, we watched a movie. Bill had a lot of VHS movies here that we are watching. Before we came down here, Steve said that the DVD doesn’t work, but at least the VHS works and that there are movies here.
About 9.30am the cell phone rang. I answered it and it was Carol. She asked if we were going to the beach and I said yes. (I had invited her to meet when she was here last Sunday and go to the beach.)
Jayne and I planned to go to the Sunday market, and get the bus at 8am, but because we were up late last night watching a movie, we got up late this morning.
We met Carol on the beach. We got to the beach at about 11.30am and I thought that was late, but it was even later that a lot more people came to the beach. I see that the beach is only crowded on weekends. So, it’s an indication of a poor economy as most Spaniards come here by car on weekends.
We left about 2pm and went back to the apartment to shower. Then we went out to eat lunch. We treated Carol to lunch.
Carol drove us back and she went home.
In the evening, we watched a movie. Bill had a lot of VHS movies here that we are watching. Before we came down here, Steve said that the DVD doesn’t work, but at least the VHS works and that there are movies here.
Met a Russian
Saturday July 11
We just went to the cafe today. The one that we stopped at, Amsterdam, I saw a girl working there that looks like Russian. I asked her if she was Russian, and she said yes. Then I started talking to her in Russian and she was surprised. So, we had a little talk. It’s good to speak Russian again.
When I went back to pay, I asked the girl if she worked here a long time and she said she’d been in Spain for seven years. I told her that I remember her from two years ago. She was pleased that I remembered her. Jayne was glad that I was able to speak some Russian.
The rest of the day we were at home.
We just went to the cafe today. The one that we stopped at, Amsterdam, I saw a girl working there that looks like Russian. I asked her if she was Russian, and she said yes. Then I started talking to her in Russian and she was surprised. So, we had a little talk. It’s good to speak Russian again.
When I went back to pay, I asked the girl if she worked here a long time and she said she’d been in Spain for seven years. I told her that I remember her from two years ago. She was pleased that I remembered her. Jayne was glad that I was able to speak some Russian.
The rest of the day we were at home.
Trip to Cartagena
Friday July 10
Jayne and I went to Cartagena. We left about 9am. When we got to the bus stop we saw that we still had some time, so we went to La Costa cafe to have coffee. This is the stop and the cafe we often went to when we visited Jayne’s father in Santa Maria del Rossell Hospital.
The bus ride was 5.20 euros for both of us. It was a direct bus and it took us about 35 minutes. Taking the one that goes through the towns would take about another 30 minutes.
We saw the tour bus of the city (which picks up people across the street from the police station). The ride cost 8 euros for two people. The driver gave us earphone so we can listen to the recording. They have it in different languages. The bus was a red-double decker bus with the top being without a roof. Jayne and I sad on the top deck and we were the only ones on it for the first part of the trip.
I took some pictures, of course. The city is not pretty, as the building are not nicely done. There are the scattered nice building and the sidewalks are very nice as they are all done in tile (as is the area in which we live).
The ride took only 45 minutes
Then we walked to some of the places that we saw on the bus. We stopped in one cafe to have a bite to eat. Across the street from the cafe is a beautiful church that was built in 1890. I took some pictures inside.
Then we walked down a narrow street that had shops on both sides. While walking, Jayne did a lot of looking in the shops. But it was only one shop that she bought something.
We went to the supermarket, which is right next to the hospital that Bill was in. We had lunch there, too. Jayne paid for the nice lunch we had. Then we took a walk to the internet cafe there. I’m glad they are still in business and their interest was fast. We spent about two hours there.
Then we walked back to the bus station and bought a ticket there. He had some time to wait, so we got something to drink in the cafe there. I saw that they divided it up from the last time I was there. One half of it is a game room that includes internet. I saw that their computers were coin operated, which I find them expensive. At the internet cafe we were just in the cost is not cheap but it’s cheaper than the hotel we were in the other day. I paid for both of us with a total of 4 hours that came out to 10 euros. So that is 2.50 euros per hour.
We got home about 6.45pm.
Jayne and I went to Cartagena. We left about 9am. When we got to the bus stop we saw that we still had some time, so we went to La Costa cafe to have coffee. This is the stop and the cafe we often went to when we visited Jayne’s father in Santa Maria del Rossell Hospital.
The bus ride was 5.20 euros for both of us. It was a direct bus and it took us about 35 minutes. Taking the one that goes through the towns would take about another 30 minutes.
We saw the tour bus of the city (which picks up people across the street from the police station). The ride cost 8 euros for two people. The driver gave us earphone so we can listen to the recording. They have it in different languages. The bus was a red-double decker bus with the top being without a roof. Jayne and I sad on the top deck and we were the only ones on it for the first part of the trip.
I took some pictures, of course. The city is not pretty, as the building are not nicely done. There are the scattered nice building and the sidewalks are very nice as they are all done in tile (as is the area in which we live).
The ride took only 45 minutes
Then we walked to some of the places that we saw on the bus. We stopped in one cafe to have a bite to eat. Across the street from the cafe is a beautiful church that was built in 1890. I took some pictures inside.
Then we walked down a narrow street that had shops on both sides. While walking, Jayne did a lot of looking in the shops. But it was only one shop that she bought something.
We went to the supermarket, which is right next to the hospital that Bill was in. We had lunch there, too. Jayne paid for the nice lunch we had. Then we took a walk to the internet cafe there. I’m glad they are still in business and their interest was fast. We spent about two hours there.
Then we walked back to the bus station and bought a ticket there. He had some time to wait, so we got something to drink in the cafe there. I saw that they divided it up from the last time I was there. One half of it is a game room that includes internet. I saw that their computers were coin operated, which I find them expensive. At the internet cafe we were just in the cost is not cheap but it’s cheaper than the hotel we were in the other day. I paid for both of us with a total of 4 hours that came out to 10 euros. So that is 2.50 euros per hour.
We got home about 6.45pm.
Internet Problems
Monday July 6
Jayne and went to the restaurant that has internet. When we set up we found out there was no connection. The woman said that they cut the electric off in this area. We left there and went back home.
Then we went out to the bank as Jayne had more business to do. She found out that the electric company paid her back for the over charges. This is surprising and strange, as Jayne didn’t put in a request and the bank worker said this is the first time she ever saw this.
Then we went to Jayne’s lawyer, which is right around the corner and set up an appointment with him. We’ll have to go back there Wednesday at 11am.
On the way to the lawyer’s office we passed a cafe and I saw a guy with a laptop computer. On our return I saw another person with a laptop. I asked the waitress if she had wireless there, and she said yes. This is great. This is where we’ll go tomorrow.
Then we got something to eat at the cafe we’ve been to before. You get more food for your money if you order tapaz.
In the evening we watched a film on my computer. I put the computer on the coffee table so we can sit on the sofa. We saw Ben-Hur. This is what Richard gave to me back in April.
I hadn’t seen this film since it first came out in 1959! I remember it well, it was when my family, including my aunts and uncle were in Wildwood, NJ, on vacation.
July 7
Problems with internet
Jayne and I took our computers to the cafe that we saw has internet. We couldn’t get a connection, thought we tried and tried. We saw a guy who was on the desktop computers that the cafe has. I put money in one and I wasn’t connected, but it took my money (one euro). I did get my money back.
Then we went to the hotel that is in the plaza to see if they have internet. They do, and you have to put euro .50 in which is good for only 7 minutes! What a joke this was – it was so slow! I found out shortly after I put the money in that someone had broken the space bar. I had already noticed that someone had broken the space where the CD drive would have been. And this is suppose to be a 4 star hotel.
Well, I was only about to read two emails. One was from Matt and he said he had no news.
Then we left there to go to the cafe where we usually eat. I said to Jayne that in hte evening we’ll go back to the cafe we were at the other day but didn’t have electricity and see if they have connection.
At the cafe I decided to ask the friendly owner if he has wireless, and to my surprise he said yes. He gave me the password. But guess what? We couldn’t get connection.
This area really sucks for getting internet. You would think that in a tourist area in Europe there would be no problem. The owner said he just got wireless three weeks ago but no one had used it. What does he expect, he (or others that have it) don’t advertise. There is nothing on the door with a sign that says he has internet.
The owner later brought over a guy who is English and he helped us. He finally got Jayne connected. He said that with the Vista Windows there is usually a problem. He then went to my computer and got me connected, or at least he thought he did – as he didn’t even open up a Browser.
I opened up the Browser but I had a difficult time connecting. It was real slow but at least I got to my Yahoo page. But being so, so slow I had to shut it down. I had already used up a lot of battery before this guy came to help.
The guy who helped us out said that he is a waiter at the restaurant next door. So, what we’ll do is go to his place tomorrow. Since Jayne has to see her lawyer tomorrow in the same plaza, it would be convenient.
It’s hard to believe that there could be so many problems with a simple thing as the internet, but in this area it’s real.
Wednesday July 8
We went to a cafe of the guy who helped us yesterday with the internet and it was closed. His sign said they open at 10am, but this was 10min. past 10 and there wasn't even anyone inside. So, we went to another cafe.
At the cafe the internet was slow. If it was any slower I would be going back in time. When we were there, the owner gave Jayne another orange juice, though she didn’t ask for it.
Later, he gave me another beer, though I didn’t ask for it. I decided to look at the bill to see if he charged us – and he did!
I asked Jayne about this and she said that it’s a custom in Spain if you are a regular customer they give you another drink. Well, I was under the impression that it was free, as he did give us some peanuts to eat with the beer.
Well, the Spanish have a bad custom. The foreigners will not like this. I paid the bill and said nothing, so I didn’t leave a tip.
He didn’t wait long before the drink was finished before he came with another one. Also, he couldn’t use the excuse that we were there long and didn’t order anything else. If we go back the next time I’m be sure to tell him I don’t want it. I won’t care if the beer goes flat waiting for someone else to order it – that’s his loss.
I also noticed with different waiters/waitresses at different places that they don’t listen. This morning at our first cafe the woman came back again and asked how many coffees. On the bill, they had two tortilla and one Russian salad, when it was just the opposite. But since it came to the same price, I didn’t say anything. At other places you usually have to tell them three times. And if you order something and changed your mind – even when they are still there – you’d think you gave them a hard math test!
It had been exactly five years ago that I first went to Ecuador - that was a big mistake. I should have bought propertry somewhere else. It would have cost me more, but I would not have lost money as I had with Ecuador. With the cost of flying back and with the government allowing the sale of one property and with the cost of being a resident there, it resulted in 10s of thousands of dollars lost.
Jayne and went to the restaurant that has internet. When we set up we found out there was no connection. The woman said that they cut the electric off in this area. We left there and went back home.
Then we went out to the bank as Jayne had more business to do. She found out that the electric company paid her back for the over charges. This is surprising and strange, as Jayne didn’t put in a request and the bank worker said this is the first time she ever saw this.
Then we went to Jayne’s lawyer, which is right around the corner and set up an appointment with him. We’ll have to go back there Wednesday at 11am.
On the way to the lawyer’s office we passed a cafe and I saw a guy with a laptop computer. On our return I saw another person with a laptop. I asked the waitress if she had wireless there, and she said yes. This is great. This is where we’ll go tomorrow.
Then we got something to eat at the cafe we’ve been to before. You get more food for your money if you order tapaz.
In the evening we watched a film on my computer. I put the computer on the coffee table so we can sit on the sofa. We saw Ben-Hur. This is what Richard gave to me back in April.
I hadn’t seen this film since it first came out in 1959! I remember it well, it was when my family, including my aunts and uncle were in Wildwood, NJ, on vacation.
July 7
Problems with internet
Jayne and I took our computers to the cafe that we saw has internet. We couldn’t get a connection, thought we tried and tried. We saw a guy who was on the desktop computers that the cafe has. I put money in one and I wasn’t connected, but it took my money (one euro). I did get my money back.
Then we went to the hotel that is in the plaza to see if they have internet. They do, and you have to put euro .50 in which is good for only 7 minutes! What a joke this was – it was so slow! I found out shortly after I put the money in that someone had broken the space bar. I had already noticed that someone had broken the space where the CD drive would have been. And this is suppose to be a 4 star hotel.
Well, I was only about to read two emails. One was from Matt and he said he had no news.
Then we left there to go to the cafe where we usually eat. I said to Jayne that in hte evening we’ll go back to the cafe we were at the other day but didn’t have electricity and see if they have connection.
At the cafe I decided to ask the friendly owner if he has wireless, and to my surprise he said yes. He gave me the password. But guess what? We couldn’t get connection.
This area really sucks for getting internet. You would think that in a tourist area in Europe there would be no problem. The owner said he just got wireless three weeks ago but no one had used it. What does he expect, he (or others that have it) don’t advertise. There is nothing on the door with a sign that says he has internet.
The owner later brought over a guy who is English and he helped us. He finally got Jayne connected. He said that with the Vista Windows there is usually a problem. He then went to my computer and got me connected, or at least he thought he did – as he didn’t even open up a Browser.
I opened up the Browser but I had a difficult time connecting. It was real slow but at least I got to my Yahoo page. But being so, so slow I had to shut it down. I had already used up a lot of battery before this guy came to help.
The guy who helped us out said that he is a waiter at the restaurant next door. So, what we’ll do is go to his place tomorrow. Since Jayne has to see her lawyer tomorrow in the same plaza, it would be convenient.
It’s hard to believe that there could be so many problems with a simple thing as the internet, but in this area it’s real.
Wednesday July 8
We went to a cafe of the guy who helped us yesterday with the internet and it was closed. His sign said they open at 10am, but this was 10min. past 10 and there wasn't even anyone inside. So, we went to another cafe.
At the cafe the internet was slow. If it was any slower I would be going back in time. When we were there, the owner gave Jayne another orange juice, though she didn’t ask for it.
Later, he gave me another beer, though I didn’t ask for it. I decided to look at the bill to see if he charged us – and he did!
I asked Jayne about this and she said that it’s a custom in Spain if you are a regular customer they give you another drink. Well, I was under the impression that it was free, as he did give us some peanuts to eat with the beer.
Well, the Spanish have a bad custom. The foreigners will not like this. I paid the bill and said nothing, so I didn’t leave a tip.
He didn’t wait long before the drink was finished before he came with another one. Also, he couldn’t use the excuse that we were there long and didn’t order anything else. If we go back the next time I’m be sure to tell him I don’t want it. I won’t care if the beer goes flat waiting for someone else to order it – that’s his loss.
I also noticed with different waiters/waitresses at different places that they don’t listen. This morning at our first cafe the woman came back again and asked how many coffees. On the bill, they had two tortilla and one Russian salad, when it was just the opposite. But since it came to the same price, I didn’t say anything. At other places you usually have to tell them three times. And if you order something and changed your mind – even when they are still there – you’d think you gave them a hard math test!
It had been exactly five years ago that I first went to Ecuador - that was a big mistake. I should have bought propertry somewhere else. It would have cost me more, but I would not have lost money as I had with Ecuador. With the cost of flying back and with the government allowing the sale of one property and with the cost of being a resident there, it resulted in 10s of thousands of dollars lost.
Our First Wedding Anniversary
Sunday July 5
Today is our 1st wedding anniversary!
The past year went quickly. There was a lot of things we did during this time, such as, getting Jayne's extended visa, having home repairs and such. We really went thought a lot of things since we first met - things that would take other couples years to experience and do.
About 10.30am Carol came over. She called from the street and told us she was there and to open the car gate for her. Jayne looked for the remote but couldn’t find it. She told me to go down and wait with Carol. I did.
We waited but still Jayne didn’t come down. So I told Carol there is a space on the street to park. Carol called Jayne and told her she found a place to park. Jayne came down and said she still couldn’t find the remote. It must be somewhere in the house as she didn’t use it since Carol left here the last time.
We walk to the beach near the apartment with the umbrella and mats. There were a lot of people there. We all went into the water later.
After being on the beach for about two hours we walked back.
We showered then took the car to a restaurant nearby. Carol and Jayne both had fish while I had soup and chips. They didn’t have what I wanted so I had this. It wasn’t filling but I’ll get something more to eat back at the house.
I paid for everybody’s lunch. It was just good to have Carol there for a friend that Jayne and I to talk to. I invited her to come back next Sunday.
Jayne and I went out to dinner for our wedding anniversary celebration. We went to the same restaurant that we were at for my birthday.
We had the potato salad and swordfish. The salad was good and a big portion but the swordfish was a thin slice. The last time I had it someplace it was years ago, and I remember it was ½ inch thick.
Today is our 1st wedding anniversary!
The past year went quickly. There was a lot of things we did during this time, such as, getting Jayne's extended visa, having home repairs and such. We really went thought a lot of things since we first met - things that would take other couples years to experience and do.
About 10.30am Carol came over. She called from the street and told us she was there and to open the car gate for her. Jayne looked for the remote but couldn’t find it. She told me to go down and wait with Carol. I did.
We waited but still Jayne didn’t come down. So I told Carol there is a space on the street to park. Carol called Jayne and told her she found a place to park. Jayne came down and said she still couldn’t find the remote. It must be somewhere in the house as she didn’t use it since Carol left here the last time.
We walk to the beach near the apartment with the umbrella and mats. There were a lot of people there. We all went into the water later.
After being on the beach for about two hours we walked back.
We showered then took the car to a restaurant nearby. Carol and Jayne both had fish while I had soup and chips. They didn’t have what I wanted so I had this. It wasn’t filling but I’ll get something more to eat back at the house.
I paid for everybody’s lunch. It was just good to have Carol there for a friend that Jayne and I to talk to. I invited her to come back next Sunday.
Jayne and I went out to dinner for our wedding anniversary celebration. We went to the same restaurant that we were at for my birthday.
We had the potato salad and swordfish. The salad was good and a big portion but the swordfish was a thin slice. The last time I had it someplace it was years ago, and I remember it was ½ inch thick.
July 2-4
Thursday July 2
Today we went to the lawyer’s office. This is in the same block as where the bank is, but its location is in a shopping center. Jayne found out that the death certificate and the bank statements from her father was sent to Andrew. Jayne didn’t know this, so she will call Andrew.
Then we ate at the same cafe, which is across the parking lot of where the lawyer’s office is. Jayne had a tomato sandwich with a marinated beef on it. I had the same Spanish tortilla.
Then we walked along the beach on the bay side. I had to leave my sandals on for a small part where there was no beach to walk on. Since this area of the water also had stones in it I had to keep my sandals on.
Friday July 3
Today would have been my father's 83 birthday. He'll always be remembered by me, my mother and my sister.
We took a walk to another shopping center near here. This is our first time there since we arrived. We had coffee and tapaz and read the newspapers we bought. On the way back, I bought Jayne a dress and sandals for my wedding anniversary gift to her.
On the way back I saw a woman at a bar with a laptop computer. I asked if she had wireless internet there and she said yes.
Great!
Now we have some place to go close by to go on the internet.
About 4pm we left for the bar/restaurant with our computers. The lady is also the owner of the place and she was most gracious. We got connected and had ourselves a glass of beer.
I got emails from Sharon, my friends in Russia, Clive and Mary. Also, I got emails from those on my facebook site from people who graduated with me. It was all very nice.
There was no added charge to go on the Internet. It looks like we'll be there most every day we are in Spain.
Saturday July 4
Today is American Independence Day. We have lost most of our freedoms, so the day would be better in learning how we lost our independence and how to gain it back. However, you can be sure that with all the celebrations going on in the US it will just be parades, picnic lunches and fireworks. There will be no learning of what made our country great. It’s really a shame.
Today Jayne and I went to the shopping square at the bottom of the hill to have coffee and tapaz. We read the Daily Mail that I bought. This newspaper has some good articles in it which includes the things that big government is doing.
From there we went to the local supermarket to buy some food. Then we returned home.
Today we went to the lawyer’s office. This is in the same block as where the bank is, but its location is in a shopping center. Jayne found out that the death certificate and the bank statements from her father was sent to Andrew. Jayne didn’t know this, so she will call Andrew.
Then we ate at the same cafe, which is across the parking lot of where the lawyer’s office is. Jayne had a tomato sandwich with a marinated beef on it. I had the same Spanish tortilla.
Then we walked along the beach on the bay side. I had to leave my sandals on for a small part where there was no beach to walk on. Since this area of the water also had stones in it I had to keep my sandals on.
Friday July 3
Today would have been my father's 83 birthday. He'll always be remembered by me, my mother and my sister.
We took a walk to another shopping center near here. This is our first time there since we arrived. We had coffee and tapaz and read the newspapers we bought. On the way back, I bought Jayne a dress and sandals for my wedding anniversary gift to her.
On the way back I saw a woman at a bar with a laptop computer. I asked if she had wireless internet there and she said yes.
Great!
Now we have some place to go close by to go on the internet.
About 4pm we left for the bar/restaurant with our computers. The lady is also the owner of the place and she was most gracious. We got connected and had ourselves a glass of beer.
I got emails from Sharon, my friends in Russia, Clive and Mary. Also, I got emails from those on my facebook site from people who graduated with me. It was all very nice.
There was no added charge to go on the Internet. It looks like we'll be there most every day we are in Spain.
Saturday July 4
Today is American Independence Day. We have lost most of our freedoms, so the day would be better in learning how we lost our independence and how to gain it back. However, you can be sure that with all the celebrations going on in the US it will just be parades, picnic lunches and fireworks. There will be no learning of what made our country great. It’s really a shame.
Today Jayne and I went to the shopping square at the bottom of the hill to have coffee and tapaz. We read the Daily Mail that I bought. This newspaper has some good articles in it which includes the things that big government is doing.
From there we went to the local supermarket to buy some food. Then we returned home.
My Birthday
Wednesday July 1
My Birthday
Jayne wished me a ‘Happy Birthday’! I’m 59 years old today! Shortly thereafter, she came in with a gift for me. It was an Olympus (VN-500PC) digital audio recorder! Also, she bought a charger and two AA batteries for the audio recorder.
This was very nice of her. This is what I had wanted, though I didn’t ask this. She just heard me say it from a previous conversation right after we were robbed – as Gonzalo had stolen that. Later I had said that I want to replace it for my seminars and interviews with clients when I start my EFT business.
Jayne had bought this when we were at the airport. I saw her with a bag when she came back but I didn’t say anything because the first thing on my mind was we didn’t have much time to get coffee. Then afterwards I had forgotten to ask her. She said today had I asked she would have said she bought some perfume and that probably I wouldn’t want to look at it.
Things worked out for the good.
The first thing we did was to open the trunks under the bed as this is where Steve stored things. He said he put Jayne’s clothes in one of them. Well, there are three trunks under the bed. (We opened one yesterday, and all we found was Steven’s clothes.) The other two were harder to get at.
Jayne thinks that Steve did this because he rented the flat out on the side without telling us. Anyhow, that’s another story.
We found in one trunk condiments and some food. Now, why would he do that unless there was someone that would be renting the flat? Anyhow, Jayne was desperately looking for coffee and we found some.
We left about 10am to go to the bank where Jayne had to take care of some business. We plan to do any shopping or business early in the morning before it gets too hot.
After business at the bank we went to a cafe that we’ve been too in the past. The waiter there was the same one that waited on us 2 years ago and he remembered us. We remembered him as he’s always happy and pleasant. Two years ago Jayne and I were here on my birthday. We were with her uncle and aunt, as they were visiting Bill when he was ill with cancer.
First we ordered Cappuccino. Then we ordered to tortilla Espanola, as it was only 2 euros – and they were big pieces and nearly 2 inches thick! The breakfast we didn’t order as it was 9 euros!
Then Jayne bought a hat (Steve must have thrown her hat out and my hat, though he said he didn’t). Jayne will give him an ear-full when she calls him.
Then we went food shopping. We didn’t buy everything we needed as it would have been too much to carry.
Everything looks pretty much the same in La Manga, but I guess it would as everything is build up. However, they build a high-rise apartment that blocks out some of the view of the bay from the apartment. Since it’s near the beach, it only blocked out part of the view.
There is a high-rise that is now in back of the new building so the people who live that and had a view of the bay are now without a view – those poor people. I’m sure they must have complained to the city, but since governments all over the world are corrupt from top to bottom, you can be sure that the council members sided with the big business. And I wouldn’t be surprised that they got paid money or were given promises under the table.
In the evening Jayne and I went out to eat for my birthday. We went to the store market area near here. We were going to eat at one place until I remembered a nice place in the same area. So we ate there.
Before we ate we were walking around. We passed a couple and Jayne told me they were Russians. I wasn’t listening but I recall the couple. When I decided to eat at La Verde Restaurant we happened to sit next to the couple where are Russians. We didn’t hear anything that they said as their table was not that close. However, I noticed that this guy was huge! It looks like he’s a professional weight lifter or someone who makes it his life to work out in the gym.
Jayne and I both order the same thing. For starters we had a potato salad, which was super. Then we had a seafood rice dish. I was going to have the swordfish, but since the waitress said that the order for the seafood/rice if for two people, I changed my mind. (This was my second thought, so it wasn’t something that I would not have ordered.)
We also had a glass of beer. The total came to 36 euros. The salad was big and there was left over from the meal. So, it could have fed 3 people. I said we’ll come back here for our 1st year wedding anniversary.
I took some pictures while we were there. We decided to have our coffee and desert at some other place. This gave us time to walk off our food and to find some place less crowed. They certainly do a lot of business.
We had our desert and coffee at The Amsterdam.
That was the end of my birthday.
My Birthday
Jayne wished me a ‘Happy Birthday’! I’m 59 years old today! Shortly thereafter, she came in with a gift for me. It was an Olympus (VN-500PC) digital audio recorder! Also, she bought a charger and two AA batteries for the audio recorder.
This was very nice of her. This is what I had wanted, though I didn’t ask this. She just heard me say it from a previous conversation right after we were robbed – as Gonzalo had stolen that. Later I had said that I want to replace it for my seminars and interviews with clients when I start my EFT business.
Jayne had bought this when we were at the airport. I saw her with a bag when she came back but I didn’t say anything because the first thing on my mind was we didn’t have much time to get coffee. Then afterwards I had forgotten to ask her. She said today had I asked she would have said she bought some perfume and that probably I wouldn’t want to look at it.
Things worked out for the good.
The first thing we did was to open the trunks under the bed as this is where Steve stored things. He said he put Jayne’s clothes in one of them. Well, there are three trunks under the bed. (We opened one yesterday, and all we found was Steven’s clothes.) The other two were harder to get at.
Jayne thinks that Steve did this because he rented the flat out on the side without telling us. Anyhow, that’s another story.
We found in one trunk condiments and some food. Now, why would he do that unless there was someone that would be renting the flat? Anyhow, Jayne was desperately looking for coffee and we found some.
We left about 10am to go to the bank where Jayne had to take care of some business. We plan to do any shopping or business early in the morning before it gets too hot.
After business at the bank we went to a cafe that we’ve been too in the past. The waiter there was the same one that waited on us 2 years ago and he remembered us. We remembered him as he’s always happy and pleasant. Two years ago Jayne and I were here on my birthday. We were with her uncle and aunt, as they were visiting Bill when he was ill with cancer.
First we ordered Cappuccino. Then we ordered to tortilla Espanola, as it was only 2 euros – and they were big pieces and nearly 2 inches thick! The breakfast we didn’t order as it was 9 euros!
Then Jayne bought a hat (Steve must have thrown her hat out and my hat, though he said he didn’t). Jayne will give him an ear-full when she calls him.
Then we went food shopping. We didn’t buy everything we needed as it would have been too much to carry.
Everything looks pretty much the same in La Manga, but I guess it would as everything is build up. However, they build a high-rise apartment that blocks out some of the view of the bay from the apartment. Since it’s near the beach, it only blocked out part of the view.
There is a high-rise that is now in back of the new building so the people who live that and had a view of the bay are now without a view – those poor people. I’m sure they must have complained to the city, but since governments all over the world are corrupt from top to bottom, you can be sure that the council members sided with the big business. And I wouldn’t be surprised that they got paid money or were given promises under the table.
In the evening Jayne and I went out to eat for my birthday. We went to the store market area near here. We were going to eat at one place until I remembered a nice place in the same area. So we ate there.
Before we ate we were walking around. We passed a couple and Jayne told me they were Russians. I wasn’t listening but I recall the couple. When I decided to eat at La Verde Restaurant we happened to sit next to the couple where are Russians. We didn’t hear anything that they said as their table was not that close. However, I noticed that this guy was huge! It looks like he’s a professional weight lifter or someone who makes it his life to work out in the gym.
Jayne and I both order the same thing. For starters we had a potato salad, which was super. Then we had a seafood rice dish. I was going to have the swordfish, but since the waitress said that the order for the seafood/rice if for two people, I changed my mind. (This was my second thought, so it wasn’t something that I would not have ordered.)
We also had a glass of beer. The total came to 36 euros. The salad was big and there was left over from the meal. So, it could have fed 3 people. I said we’ll come back here for our 1st year wedding anniversary.
I took some pictures while we were there. We decided to have our coffee and desert at some other place. This gave us time to walk off our food and to find some place less crowed. They certainly do a lot of business.
We had our desert and coffee at The Amsterdam.
That was the end of my birthday.
Leaving for Spain
Tuesday June 30
Leaving for Spain!
We got up at 8.00am. Steve had already left for work.
We waited for Linda but she didn’t come. We had to go out to do some errands before we got a taxi. We stopped in the taxi stand and ordered a taxi for 10.30pm. Then we got breakfast, and also bought a water filter for our use in Spain.
When we got back I saw money on the suitcase. So Linda must have been here. Jayne counted the money and there was 330£ but there should have been 360£. Jayne wrote a note for Steve and told him.
The taxi ride from Blackheath to Birmingham took 45 minutes and the cost was 25£.
We got booked in and had plenty of time before we left. The plane was to leave at 2.10pm but by the time we took off it was 2.30pm. The flight was right to Murcia. We got there about 5.45 local time.
Carol was there waiting for us. Carol is the lady that Jayne used to translate at the hospital and do other things when Bill was in and out of the hospital. (He died back in October 2007.)
I invited her to dinner. She had time for dinner and hadn’t eaten in hours. The restaurant we went to wasn’t opened yet (it was about 7.45pm). The guy said they’ll be opened at 8.00pm. so we went to another bar. Jayne and I had a beer and Carol had a pina colata.
We went to a restaurant nearby that Jayne and I ate at before. The total for including a bottle of wine and dessert for the ladies came to $64!
Jayne and I had fish, but the fish was small, and the vegetables that went with it were real small. Not getting value for your money there anymore.
Carol then went home and Jayne and I started to unpack and do things around the apartment. He couldn’t figure how to turn on the hot water, though we tried a couple of things. So we had a cold shower.
It was a long tiring day!
Leaving for Spain!
We got up at 8.00am. Steve had already left for work.
We waited for Linda but she didn’t come. We had to go out to do some errands before we got a taxi. We stopped in the taxi stand and ordered a taxi for 10.30pm. Then we got breakfast, and also bought a water filter for our use in Spain.
When we got back I saw money on the suitcase. So Linda must have been here. Jayne counted the money and there was 330£ but there should have been 360£. Jayne wrote a note for Steve and told him.
The taxi ride from Blackheath to Birmingham took 45 minutes and the cost was 25£.
We got booked in and had plenty of time before we left. The plane was to leave at 2.10pm but by the time we took off it was 2.30pm. The flight was right to Murcia. We got there about 5.45 local time.
Carol was there waiting for us. Carol is the lady that Jayne used to translate at the hospital and do other things when Bill was in and out of the hospital. (He died back in October 2007.)
I invited her to dinner. She had time for dinner and hadn’t eaten in hours. The restaurant we went to wasn’t opened yet (it was about 7.45pm). The guy said they’ll be opened at 8.00pm. so we went to another bar. Jayne and I had a beer and Carol had a pina colata.
We went to a restaurant nearby that Jayne and I ate at before. The total for including a bottle of wine and dessert for the ladies came to $64!
Jayne and I had fish, but the fish was small, and the vegetables that went with it were real small. Not getting value for your money there anymore.
Carol then went home and Jayne and I started to unpack and do things around the apartment. He couldn’t figure how to turn on the hot water, though we tried a couple of things. So we had a cold shower.
It was a long tiring day!
Packing
Monday June 28
We did packing today for our trip.
At the time Steve was to pick us up he didn't arrive, so Jayne called him. He said that he was waiting until the traffic rush was over to pick us up. Jayne said this was a lie as he said two days before that he would come right after work to get us before the traffic!
Since Jayne was busy all day and didn’t have anything to eat, while I just had a snack, we told Steve we’d treat him to fish and chips. We stopped by a place before we arrived to his house.
Steven’s place is really a pigpen! He is still in the process of renovating, but he does very little each month. There are clothes all over (upstairs) saw dust and parts lying all over. Jayne and I had his bedroom to sleep and that was a mess and dirty. Jayne said this will be the last time she’ll spend the night. I feel the same way!
Steve was to take us to the airport tomorrow, but he said he forgot to ask his boss if he could come in late. Thus, another confirmation that he lied (saying he was waiting for the traffic to die down). He just forgot about picking us up.
Steve owes money to Jayne and he said that Linda, his daughter will be stopping by to give her money. She’d be by at 8.30am. Steve is having the rent money that she pays to go to Jayne this time.
We did packing today for our trip.
At the time Steve was to pick us up he didn't arrive, so Jayne called him. He said that he was waiting until the traffic rush was over to pick us up. Jayne said this was a lie as he said two days before that he would come right after work to get us before the traffic!
Since Jayne was busy all day and didn’t have anything to eat, while I just had a snack, we told Steve we’d treat him to fish and chips. We stopped by a place before we arrived to his house.
Steven’s place is really a pigpen! He is still in the process of renovating, but he does very little each month. There are clothes all over (upstairs) saw dust and parts lying all over. Jayne and I had his bedroom to sleep and that was a mess and dirty. Jayne said this will be the last time she’ll spend the night. I feel the same way!
Steve was to take us to the airport tomorrow, but he said he forgot to ask his boss if he could come in late. Thus, another confirmation that he lied (saying he was waiting for the traffic to die down). He just forgot about picking us up.
Steve owes money to Jayne and he said that Linda, his daughter will be stopping by to give her money. She’d be by at 8.30am. Steve is having the rent money that she pays to go to Jayne this time.
Jacko Died
Thursday June 25
This morning I found out that I couldn't connect to the Internet. I hope that we will have connection before we go to Spain.
This morning Mike Jones came over, who is related to Jayne's family by marriage. He took Lil to her other house so she could check out things out. Jayne went to Kinver by herself to buy a white skirt for Spain.
I found out that Lil will be staying in her other house until Sunday. Now, she'll have time alone and Jayne and I will have time alone.
In the evening, Jayne was able to get us on the Internet. I was ready to go to bed, but now that we are on the Internet so we stayed up longer.
There was an article that Farrah Faucet died of cancer. She played one of the Angels in 'Charlie's Angels'.
Shortly before I went to bed I noticed a news article on Yahoo that Michael Jackson died. It said that he died shortly after 12pm. I expect that more will be on the news when I get up tomorrow.
This morning I found out that I couldn't connect to the Internet. I hope that we will have connection before we go to Spain.
This morning Mike Jones came over, who is related to Jayne's family by marriage. He took Lil to her other house so she could check out things out. Jayne went to Kinver by herself to buy a white skirt for Spain.
I found out that Lil will be staying in her other house until Sunday. Now, she'll have time alone and Jayne and I will have time alone.
In the evening, Jayne was able to get us on the Internet. I was ready to go to bed, but now that we are on the Internet so we stayed up longer.
There was an article that Farrah Faucet died of cancer. She played one of the Angels in 'Charlie's Angels'.
Shortly before I went to bed I noticed a news article on Yahoo that Michael Jackson died. It said that he died shortly after 12pm. I expect that more will be on the news when I get up tomorrow.
Friday, June 26, 2009
Euro Problem Again
Wednesday June 24
We went to Merry Hill to buy some things that we need for Spain. We bought a fan, as they are a lot more in Spain. But we couldn't
find a water filter to take - and this was in a big mall!
We went to Lloyd's Bank so I can cash a 100 euro note. There were different tellers there again. Also, different people at the help
desk. I went to a teller and gave her the money. She said she have to see if she could cash it. Again, the same old story!
The teller then went to see someone in the back room. I told her that it's illegal not to accept legal tender money. I told her that I
was here last week and they said it was no problem. This is euros, so we are not talking about some third world currency. She went to
the back room again. She finally changed my 100 euro note. She took down my I.D. info and had me sign a standard form which they have
here.
The thing is, that if I wasn't persistant, the bank would have me leave without changing it to pounds. Think of all the European
tourists here that need to change their euros!
I have another 100 euro note that I will take with me to Spain. Since Spain uses euros, I'll see if there are any problems with it,
and I'll write again about the results.
We went to Merry Hill to buy some things that we need for Spain. We bought a fan, as they are a lot more in Spain. But we couldn't
find a water filter to take - and this was in a big mall!
We went to Lloyd's Bank so I can cash a 100 euro note. There were different tellers there again. Also, different people at the help
desk. I went to a teller and gave her the money. She said she have to see if she could cash it. Again, the same old story!
The teller then went to see someone in the back room. I told her that it's illegal not to accept legal tender money. I told her that I
was here last week and they said it was no problem. This is euros, so we are not talking about some third world currency. She went to
the back room again. She finally changed my 100 euro note. She took down my I.D. info and had me sign a standard form which they have
here.
The thing is, that if I wasn't persistant, the bank would have me leave without changing it to pounds. Think of all the European
tourists here that need to change their euros!
I have another 100 euro note that I will take with me to Spain. Since Spain uses euros, I'll see if there are any problems with it,
and I'll write again about the results.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Summer is Here!
Sunday June 21
Today is the first day of summer and also the summer soltice! It's the longest day of the year.
Val, Lil's sister, came over for Sunday dinner.
Jayne made a plane reservation for us to go to Spain. We'll be leaving June 30 and returning July 25. She got a cheap flight but with all the add-ons that they have, it's not as cheap as you think.
Today is the first day of summer and also the summer soltice! It's the longest day of the year.
Val, Lil's sister, came over for Sunday dinner.
Jayne made a plane reservation for us to go to Spain. We'll be leaving June 30 and returning July 25. She got a cheap flight but with all the add-ons that they have, it's not as cheap as you think.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Jayne's New Computer
Tuesday June 16
Jayne and I went to Merry Hill so she could buy a computer.
Jayne bought a HP notebook Pavilion dv2-1030ea that is really nice, however it cost £599! It has an external DVD player (which was included).
Before the computer was bought I went to Lloyd's bank to change some money. I brought only 50 euros, but I wanted to ask about their policy about accepting 100, 200 and 500 notes. Here is what happened...
I know Lloyds gave me good bills, but it's trying to get others to accept them. but here is something interesting that happened to me concerning euros.
I went back to the same bank and asked if they take 100, 200, 500 notes. I had a different teller this time. he said he'd have to ask. well, a red light went off in me. normally, a bank will say yes, sure. but he had to ask three peope from what I saw - three! He went back and forth, back and forth. I told him what the bank is doing is illegal - they have to accept euros.
Now, I didn't have any on me, but I wanted to know the question. I said, look I just want to change 50s now, which he did. then he said for me to go to the desk. I did, and this girl had to go in the back room, too. I said that I was in the other week and I had one 100 note and she would not change it (to pounds). I guess because of my persistance the girl today said how much was it, and I said just a 200 and 500 (acutally i have no 200 or 500 but I'm trying to get to the bottom of this. She said, after her second visit to the back room that they WOULD as long as I don't have a lot.
Well, the amount never came up!!
She said that that was the reason the teller told me (the teller I saw today) didn't know because it was a lot. again, the amount was never a question.
A red flag went up. What she told me was BS. Jayne and I picked this up, too. What she was doing was waffling and covering up with what they done. as the teller never told me how much I had and I never told him, so it was not a question of it being a lot of money. Plus the fact that two weeks ago there was only one 100 note in question.
Our conculsion is this, and it's scary, that had I not persisted, they would have given me the run-around and said 'no'. They know what they are doing - and other places too - is illegal. Only then she said they'd change the euros. Keep in mind another business would not take them, also. This means that there is trouble changing HALF THE CURRENCY IN EUROS or spending them!!
In the evening Jayne hooked up her computer with my help. She also searched on how to get wireless, as Lil has it in her home. She came to me while I was on Lil's computer to say she's got Internet on her computer. I asked her if she could put this on mine, and she did. Now, we are both surfing on our own computers.
While at the computer store I saw something (I forgot the name of it) where you pay £100 and you can get wireless Internet anywhere. This is good for 12 months or 12 GB of info. I asked if this will work in Spain, and she said yes, but it will cost more - like using your cell phone from another country. So, I'll get one of these items when in Spain to have Internet in the flat.
Though where we'll be living in Spain is nice and modern tourist area, there are no Internet cafes. They are all in the hotels and in flats of people who want one. This will save agravation in getting someone to come out. The fact that we will only be there a month, it will not be worth the cost. So, I hope this 'Internet stick' will work. Otherwise, we will have to do what we did two years ago - go to Cartigania, which is about a 30 minute bus ride away.
Jayne and I went to Merry Hill so she could buy a computer.
Jayne bought a HP notebook Pavilion dv2-1030ea that is really nice, however it cost £599! It has an external DVD player (which was included).
Before the computer was bought I went to Lloyd's bank to change some money. I brought only 50 euros, but I wanted to ask about their policy about accepting 100, 200 and 500 notes. Here is what happened...
I know Lloyds gave me good bills, but it's trying to get others to accept them. but here is something interesting that happened to me concerning euros.
I went back to the same bank and asked if they take 100, 200, 500 notes. I had a different teller this time. he said he'd have to ask. well, a red light went off in me. normally, a bank will say yes, sure. but he had to ask three peope from what I saw - three! He went back and forth, back and forth. I told him what the bank is doing is illegal - they have to accept euros.
Now, I didn't have any on me, but I wanted to know the question. I said, look I just want to change 50s now, which he did. then he said for me to go to the desk. I did, and this girl had to go in the back room, too. I said that I was in the other week and I had one 100 note and she would not change it (to pounds). I guess because of my persistance the girl today said how much was it, and I said just a 200 and 500 (acutally i have no 200 or 500 but I'm trying to get to the bottom of this. She said, after her second visit to the back room that they WOULD as long as I don't have a lot.
Well, the amount never came up!!
She said that that was the reason the teller told me (the teller I saw today) didn't know because it was a lot. again, the amount was never a question.
A red flag went up. What she told me was BS. Jayne and I picked this up, too. What she was doing was waffling and covering up with what they done. as the teller never told me how much I had and I never told him, so it was not a question of it being a lot of money. Plus the fact that two weeks ago there was only one 100 note in question.
Our conculsion is this, and it's scary, that had I not persisted, they would have given me the run-around and said 'no'. They know what they are doing - and other places too - is illegal. Only then she said they'd change the euros. Keep in mind another business would not take them, also. This means that there is trouble changing HALF THE CURRENCY IN EUROS or spending them!!
In the evening Jayne hooked up her computer with my help. She also searched on how to get wireless, as Lil has it in her home. She came to me while I was on Lil's computer to say she's got Internet on her computer. I asked her if she could put this on mine, and she did. Now, we are both surfing on our own computers.
While at the computer store I saw something (I forgot the name of it) where you pay £100 and you can get wireless Internet anywhere. This is good for 12 months or 12 GB of info. I asked if this will work in Spain, and she said yes, but it will cost more - like using your cell phone from another country. So, I'll get one of these items when in Spain to have Internet in the flat.
Though where we'll be living in Spain is nice and modern tourist area, there are no Internet cafes. They are all in the hotels and in flats of people who want one. This will save agravation in getting someone to come out. The fact that we will only be there a month, it will not be worth the cost. So, I hope this 'Internet stick' will work. Otherwise, we will have to do what we did two years ago - go to Cartigania, which is about a 30 minute bus ride away.
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