[Has MoneyBookers Got Better Again?]

Hi,

 

Whilst on the topic of Moneybookers, has anybody used their transfer system in reverse ie

Personal French bank account (€)

                    V

Moneybookers French bank account (€)

                     V

Personal UK bank account (£)

 

If so, how has the service you received compared to the UK->France transfer.

 

TIA

 

cajal

 

[You CAN help stop the madness.]

> pet passport about to be sorted; <

If you are only just embarking on acquiring a pet passport it will be a minimum of 7 months until you can use the pet scheme.

If of course you only intend taking the dog out of the UK and not returning, a pet passport will not be required.

cajal

[IFA's]

We actually used the services of Blevins Franks on Tuesday of last week.

The meeting was held at their offices here in London where we had the sevices of two of their tax advisors for approx two hours. Although we have done our own extensive research in the field of tax avoidance (not evaision) and financial investment we found that we were able to gain far more insight into the whole workings of the French system and our specific requirements regarding capital gains, inheritance and wealth tax, social charges, estate planning etc. etc.

Mrs cajal had a follow up meeting, of about one hour the following day, specifically with regard to her pension situation. (Mine is pretty well clear cut). We are now awaiting a call/meeting with one of their investment advisors who is at present in Spain.

They will forward a report to us with advice and recommendations within 7 - 10 days. We are also able to have follow-up meetings / discussions during the next 6 months inclusive within the fee.

Only time will tell if the advice issued was good/useful or not but the meeting has enabled us to implement procedures that are relevant to our situation sooner rather than later.

As I said earlier, we have done extensive research, but we felt that books and conversations will only produce generalised information and what we were looking for was advice specifically regarding our situation and circumstances. Ultimately, I am sure we will more than recoup their charges having used the advice they have offered.

Hope that helps

cajal

[TV Broadcasting Standarda]

LAST EDITED ON 03-Feb-04 AT 09:21 AM (GMT)

We are in the process of sourcing a new TV.

Researching different models I find that certain sets have the feature of a Built in Tuner and appear to conform to particular Broadcasting Standards ( PAL SECAM NTSC )

As the UK and the majority of Europe adopt PAL and France SECAM my question is:

If I purchase a TV in the UK which has a 'built in tuner' for 'broadcasting standards' PAL SECAM & NTSC will it be able to receive and transmit French terrestial TV if used in France. Or does the 'broadcasting standard' only refer to video playback?

TIA

cajal

[IFA's]

We are at present, prior to our permenant relocation to France later this year, in the process of seeking financial advice in the form of investments, tax liabilities, capital gains etc. etc.

Last year we acquired Blevins Franks publication " Living In France" which we have duly trawled (twice)and have recently approached the company with a view to them setting out a financial plan on our behalf.

Before we commit ourselves to their services ( we have been quoted just shy of 1000 for their assistance in these matters) we would be interested to know if any other forum members have contracted the services of Blevin Franks.

If you have we would be interested to hear of your experiences with this company.

Did you find their service relevant to your cicumstances?
Did you find their service useful to your circumstances?
Did you find their service good/bad/indifferent?
If, searching again for financial advice, would you use them again?
Any other comments you would care to make regarding your experience with this company would be gratefully received.

Finally, if anyone has any experience of other financial advisors and would care to share their experience with us we would be most grateful.

TIA

cajal

[Will this card be Kosher?]

I am in the process of sourcing a sky dgibox & FTV card for use in France.

One supplier is advertising, on their web site, a Pace 2600 including a viewing card. I called them and they stated that their viewing card does NOT need activating and the box is supplied with the card fully activated.

So, firstly, is a Pace 2600 digibox a good and reliable box? And secondly dak if the so called viewing card which appears not to be of the FTV variety work? ie has anyone got one, tried one or know anyone who has one of these cards?

TIA

cajal