Baz

Yes, me too. Never happened before. Baz

Chessfou wrote: "NB - I offered no advice (beyond asking the question whether or not life assurance was actually needed - there are hordes of financial salesmen out there happy to sell unnecessary LA to the gullible)." Under current regulation and FSA controls the above practise would not be tolerated with regular strict inspections of controls and paperwork. "I also made no assumptions (statistically, those aged 50+ generally do not need life assurance - that is not an "assumption" just a statement of fact)." Chessfou, from where did you obtain this information to make that statement. In fact  there are many reasons why 50+ still need cover and this excludes the few who require IHT protection. I can speak with authority after 30 years in senior positions within the  Financial Services Industry until my retirement. Baz

Kathy, it may be worth checking with your pension company whether they offer continuation cover. Some companies allow you to take out a new policy without any medical evidence which could be a great benefit if you have any medical conditions. Whilst I agree with  LesLauriers taking the cover out in the UK will be almost certainly be cheaper, please read the questions on the application carefully. There may be a declaration asking if you intend to move abroad in the future, answering that incorrectly would void the contract in event of a claim. Baz

I and other members have from time to time been able to give out their Geographical Numbers so avoiding their expensive 0870 number.. In the last few days P&O have caught onto this loss revenue situation and have introduced recorded messages referring the caller to their new UK Non-Geographical number 08705 202020. The good news is I have been able to track down a number which still works 01304 863000. Baz

I have had 3 stand alone portable air conditioning units and frankly they are a waste of money, they are really only good for spot cooling and the exhaust tube which need placing through a window gives off massive heat. The wall mounted split systems are excellent and some even reverse for heat in the winter, they come pre gassed and can be installed by a DIY'er. The prices are dropping dramatically and in the UK costs are around £250, so I suspect the French prices may be even less. A 12000btu unit is ideal for room sizes of approximately 450-500 sq ft (42M2), I bought mine from Ebay(UK) and it has given me faultless service for the last 2 years. Baz

A further added problem for Ryanair is that loads of people cannot log onto their site. It appears to be an ISP problem mainly Orange users. Baz

From what you appear to be saying, you have installed non Sky decoder in France. In order for your recently acquired card to work in France you will have to use it in a Sky digibox and therefore if you are not using a Sky box then activating the card will not be possible and no use to your installation. Baz

It appears to be back to normal speed now. However, I do think the search facility is still a problem. Baz

[quote user="Chas"]Seems to be back up to speed this morning!! [:)][/quote] Chas, I think you spoke to soon. I agree earlier today it was better, but now it is as slow as ever. Baz

[:(]I knew the problem was not me and was just about to post my frustration. I hope I am wrong, but, being a Bank Holiday weekend in the UK, I suppose nothing will be done until at least Tuesday. Baz

Nich, I am sure Poolguy when he looks at this topic will come up with some solutions.   I cannot say whether the sand caused the problem but changing it now would be very prudent. I do not use Polymeric Biguanides ( Baquacil) which I believe is totally incompatible with chlorine. I am a believer that chlorine is the best product to keep pools under control and is very safe if kept at the prescibed levels. You may like to refer to this site which gives  positive views on non chlorine chemicals including Polymeric Biguanides. http://www.poolstore.co.uk/ishop/691/shopscr321.html Baz

Hi Nich, You should find this helpful, but you will have to use Shock Chlorine. You might have left it a bit too late for your guests arriving on Saturday but you need to get it right.        http://www.poolstore.co.uk/ishop/691/shopscr136.html   You should change your sand as 4 years is about its life span. Baz

Paypal and Ebay will always address you by your NAME anything else is a hoax. The hoaxers seem at present to be using Paypal. Baz

[quote user="hoverfrog"]I've just had my bank statement from NW, and the leaflet enclosed said that visa debit cards on a flexaccount would no monger be 'free' to use abroad. Credit cards still are though, AFAIK.[/quote] This seems a bit strange as the Nationwide Site currently states the following: Use of debit card worldwide Nationwide does not charge you commission on any purchases or cash withdrawals that you make abroad, on your Nationwide debit or credit card. When making purchases overseas, you should always be offered a choice of paying in sterling or the retailer's local currency. We recommend that you always opt to pay for purchases in local currency. This ensures that you get the best exchange rate and no commission charges on your Nationwide cards. Baz

[quote user="sambrista"]Hi, does anyone know whether the Sanef telepeage badge is valid on all french motorways or is it only valid for a certian area?[/quote] Welcome to the forum, the badge is valid on all autoroutes. Baz

I would not consider a printer that does not have separate ink cartridges, so each colour can be replaced as necessary. Also finding compatible inks usually is far easier and cost are often lower. I have used Multi-function printers for the last few years as they suit my needs, the last two have been Brother and Canon both with separate inks, I particularly like my current Canon. If photo print is a high priority then a dedicated photo printer might be worth considering as they often operate on more colour inks and can be used without connecting to a computer. But then you may need a separate basic printer linked to a computer for other uses. Whether your budget will run to two printers will need investigating however, you may well be able to do a deal and get some additional discount. If you decide on a multi-function printer I would  go for the highest specification machine that you can afford. Baz

[quote user="kate"]am currently buying a property in le cap d'agde and was told that beziers airport  (vias)  is now in the process of recruiting for Ryanair.  so good news,,, dont know which uk airport they will fly from, hopefully it will be stansted.[:D][/quote] Kate, welcome to the forum. I just wonder if that was sales talk because you are buying in the area. The rumours have been around for so long now and it is very strange if Ryanair are recruiting when they have made no official announcement for Vias. They have announced new routes for October and no mention of Bezier. But you do not need to worry as Montpellier is only 40 minutes away, with Perpignan, Carcassone and Nimes under I hour from your location all flying into Stansted. Baz

The most serious problem is the low pH level, as a low pH Value (less than 7) indicates a greater acidic than alkaline content. If the pH value is too low, it is probable that corrosion will occur around the pools fittings. Most importantly a low pH may lead to skin and eye irritation. You need to add pH + (increaser) until your reach between pH 7.2-7.6, do it in small amounts and retest after a couple of hours. If you over do it then you will need pH reducer.  With regard to the Chlorine level I would just let the sun burn it out until it reaches an acceptable reading. I would not advise using the pool until you get the chemical balance correct. Baz

It may well be cheaper to buy a day return, but P&O have that covered in their terms of business. If you do not use the return half then they will charge your card with the single fare for the day and time of travel. When, I last used the train from Narbonne they had an arrangement with the ferry companies for an inclusive rate which was heavily discounted. It may be worth checking if this option is still available or if not driving to Boulogne and using Speedferries may be a cheapest alternative. Baz

[quote user="Bugbear"] I treated my self recently to a new Microsoft Wireless Keyboard & Mouse. The problem I am having is that when typing on the keyboard it keeps missing letters out (lik ths for exampl) I thought that I was simply typing too fast, but it happens even if you type slower Anyone got any suggestions as to how to correct it please, before it goes in the bin................... [/quote] I also bought last week a new Microsoft Wireless Keyboard & Mouse and had a different problem. However, there is a simple way of resolving your problem, just find the telephone number in your instruction manual for the Microsoft help line. They are really fantastic and will talk you through your problem and resolve it. One other thing you may wish to try is to reposition your receiver as any interference will cause a problem, I found having the receiver next to keyboard was best and everything worked far faster. Baz

The Tresorie is only responsible for the collection of monies. To resolve your problem you have to go or contact the Hotel des Impots as they issue both Tax d'habitation and Fronciere and they will be able to explain why you have not received your Tax Fronciere. Baz

Many thanks for your prompt reply. I have solved the problem with microsoft technical telephone help line, there was a conflict in the configaration which has been corrected and all is working well. Baz

Anything that reduces spaghetti junction around my PC is great. I had to replace my keyboard and mouse and this time bought a wireless version which is excellent. Now I have sorted out everything I am left with just one small problem which I hope someone can solve. The screen saver and turn off monitor no longer works. I have checked all the settings in screen saver monitor in the control panel, however there is a sleep button on my new keyboard that partially turns off the PC and breaks my ADSL link. My only concern with the the sleep mode is that I have predetermined times for certain checks such as AVG check at 10am will this no longer work as the computer is in sleep mode. Also is there anyway to get the screen saver to work again or does the wireless keyboard over ride this option. Baz

The AA has updated its European motoring advice page last month. It covers all the points regarding driving and vehicle requirements in France and Europe. http://www.theaa.com/motoring_advice/touring_tips/AA_compulsory_equipment_april2007.doc Be patient depending on your connection it may take 15 - 20 seconds to load. Baz

[quote user="ErnieY"] May I humbly suggest and request that it be kept on topic and not be used to ask for help with actual problems. [/quote] Ernie, I do not understand your above posting, maybe it is too early in the day for me. Baz