Post by: Mrious_be on September 10, 2006, 11:55:35 AM
It's sunday, so i couldn't really do anything interesting that has to do with my moving to London.
So in stead i went to mum to hang some shelves against the wall
It's so exciting thinking i'll be living in another country in 21 days
, exciting, but also getting abit nervous.Although i'm trying to do alot in advance, i'm pretty sure that there will be things i haven't thought about or i could have arrange better.
Up untill now i have been focusing on moving my furniture and stuff i don't want to take to London (at first move) to my mum's basement at her appartement.
So at this point i'm sitting in a half empty studio, typing on my cute iBook.
Lots have to be moved over, i'm doing that little by little and sort out what i really need to take with me and what don't, and what i might take with me in a later stadia.
I'll be moving over on october 1st (or second).
Once there i will focus on finding a job, for this i gave myself 3 months but i'm pushing that date, and that goal is 2 months.
Next friday i'll be going to London for two days (one night at a hotel) to check out choices i'll have gathered upon then for flats/house shares.
This means that i'll be renting a room in a flat or house form someone, and i will have a shared bathroom and kitchen.
It's amazing what options you have with that in London, people are doing this cause they know the rent is pretty high in London.
I'll add more information from day to day now.
Post by: Gregg on September 10, 2006, 04:03:29 PM
I'm asuming that's London, England.
London, Ontario would have been closer to Boston...
Post by: kimmer on September 10, 2006, 05:00:40 PM
I'll be watching this thread for updates. It's very exciting to start life fresh. Sneakers and I are finding it loads of fun. Even if I will be unpacking boxes until 2010. LOL!
Post by: themagpie on September 10, 2006, 09:39:42 PM
Margie
Post by: Mrious_be on September 11, 2006, 08:39:16 AM
After all the rumors i read and heard, about it being difficult to open a bank account in the UK i went to a local branch of the Citibank here in Antwerp.
Thinking i'll open an account here, then go to London and open an account at the Citibank branch in London.
At the Citibank they told me that opening an account in London is just as easy as opening an account here in belgium... so this made me feel bad for pushing on.
That girl was even just receptionist and not a bank employer.
I told her that i'll first go to check in Citibank London and see what they have to say when i'll be there this friday and saturday.
Already figured out they have one on Canary Wharf and oxford street (for the UK people here)
Then went to my own bank and ordering some UK Pounds, cause i want to leave a deposit behind in case i find a place to live that i like.
The only thing planned left for today is calling my internet provider and asking them to cancel my entire internet service packet with them.
Hmmm... and this remind me to change my email on TS (and others) to the new gmail one, i'll do this first.
My neighbor was so kind to again wake me up at 3am tonight, making me feel pretty pissed, nervous and sick in the morning, i guess i'll have to cope the day now cause sleeping in the day is not an option for me, as i'll end up having headache than
Smiley found me a great website last week, called Gumtree and it's about posting your own add to find a living space in London
So i did that last saturday, again yesterday and today... it's just that they recommend do it a few times a week so it keeps up to date... and cause i posted it at the wrong subject the second time.
Not really anything to do with me moving over but this morning i received my Hitachy Travelstar 100Gb 2,5" drive at 7200 rpm but i'll have to wait to build it in though.
Although i know it's smaller than a standard drive, i was still surprised how small it is, it's smaller in ever dimension and that was a big surprise as i thought it would only be one inch less higher.
But i'm glad i have it this fast, ordered it last friday and they said it will be back in stock on saturday so that's a great service.
Thanks everyone, i'll try to keep TS up to date but i must say that i'm affraid i might be offline for a few days till i figure out how to get online from London.
Already heard that the libraries there offer free wireless connection, so anless they offer it at the place i will go live (alot do) that's what i'll have to do.
Post by: Mrious_be on September 11, 2006, 08:51:26 AM
QUOTE(kimmer @ Sep 11 2006, 12:00 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Oh, I wish you all the best. I'll be watching this thread for updates.
It's very exciting to start life fresh. Sneakers and I are finding it loads of fun. Even if I will be unpacking boxes until 2010. LOL!
I'll be watching this thread for updates. It's very exciting to start life fresh. Sneakers and I are finding it loads of fun. Even if I will be unpacking boxes until 2010. LOL!
I guess it's something i can avoid by moving my stuff to my mum's basement, so i can go get what i need things once at a time (or by renting a van in a few months).
Post by: Mrious_be on September 12, 2006, 08:05:34 AM
Just finished putting together papers in plastic maps for what i have to do the coming two days in London.
Everything into the order that it has to be done.
First a papersheet with the address and information and on the back a printout from the London Underground with marks on which tube to take to get to that spot (originating from the last arrangement i had).
Looking good... well it better be cause i spend over two hours on doing so
Cancelled my ISP today (by mail) and again brought some stuff to the basement from mum's appartement.
Tonight i'll be eating at my mum's place, and a brother will be there also.
After that we'll be going to watch "The Sentinel".
Post by: gunug on September 12, 2006, 08:11:58 AM
Post by: Mrious_be on September 13, 2006, 07:42:13 AM
I woke up with a stomach problem and headache so i didn't do to much today.
Went out, had breakfast somewhere, walked some more and was able to get a rubber feet for the iBook from the local apple reseller
Also had a haircut and that's about it.
I will however pack my little suitcase this afternoon in preperation for London on friday and saturday.
I just booked the EuroStar ticket but.... it will be on monday october 2.
This means this countdown is a day early now, i'll correct that with this reply, but not going to correct the previous once
Gunug, i think you can just make a living there as you would at any place
Post by: Mrious_be on September 14, 2006, 01:40:19 PM
Appart from spending the last two hours on searching last minute offers for flats in London, today i spend most time on updating all my CD artwork in the new iTunes
I did pack for my trip to London tomorrow, but since it's going to be two days/one night i won't have much to take.
I am going to see if i can already leave something there, maybe they have those lockers to rent for certain times.
So there's not much update today, but i do can say i won't be here tomorrow and the day after.
I'll be back in Belgium saturday night and posting on sunday.
Post by: kimmer on September 15, 2006, 01:32:17 PM
Hope you find a flat while there.
Looking forward to an update when you return.
Post by: Mrious_be on September 17, 2006, 12:49:47 PM
I arrived back in Antwerp last night around 11.30 pm and was abit to tired to still make a reply, so here it is.
I don't think it was for my arrival but when i stepped down from the train in Antwerp i saw they were having a concert inside the station
I must say that it was pretty spectacular to see the lasers and bluelights up on the historical walls from Grand Central Station here, kinda liked it.
But being to tired already (and not having entrance ticket) i left home.
Seems the concert was cause Belgium had it's "Day for Public Transportation" yesterday, first time i saw a concert in the station though.
My trip to London:
Honestly... it was a trip i shouldn't have made if i known some of the facts in front.
Nothing really helpful came out of the trip, except that i went to some banks and cellular phone providers to have some information, just to make something good out of it.
I have been contacting this agency that provides people with Short term stays (lets) in London for a few times the last weeks.
They helped me with information but somehow they neglected to mention the following:
1) there's a fee from 69 pounds to pay before they help you out
2) all rooms or flats that you check and like, have to be payed for straight away (that i know) but you'll have to pay from the day you book it (that i didn't know).
This means i would have payed for two weeks extra, while not living there yet and together with the 69 pounds fee i didn't wanted to do that.
I already send a mail back to the lady who i had contact with by email saying she could have saved me this trip if she would have mentioned that herself, which she should have.
She knew i was from belgium.
She knew i was going to live in London 1st or 2nd in october, but she also knew i was coming in about two weeks earlier to book a room or small flat.
WHY didn't she tell me i can't or have to pay for those two weeks then, maybe she just thought i would have payed for those two weeks
Since i didn't wanted to make the entire trip (and the money i lost on it) to unproductive i decided i should do whatever i can regarding information i might need on stuff.
So i started calling all the numbers i had from all the people who had rooms, but most were gone and the others told me the same like the girl at the office, if i like the room, i'll have to take it starting from that day
When i ran out off calls, i went to check banks and ask them how easy (or hard) it is for me to open a bank account, after hearing them it seems not to be that hard as i thought it would, a good thing i guess.
Then i went to get information about a UK Sim for my cellular phone.
After that, i just went back to the hotel (after having dinner in a local Italian restaurant), found that their wireless internet didn't really worked reliable so i went out to another hotel, asked if they had wireless, bought a vignet for one hour and went online, lucky enough to find Smiley online
Even had a Belgian beer there
Than i went back to the hotel i stayed and watched a movie i rented in Belgium and took with me (the forgotten), took a shower and went to sleep.
Didn't sleep all that good, i guess i was thinking to much about this unproductive trip and loose of money, as that's how i felt it was.
I got up at 8.30am, took another shower and decided not to have breakfast in the hotel, i just wanted to go.
So i signed out, and went to have breakfast somewhere else.
A looooong street it is but i had time anough to kill before i had to go to the station.
And guess what i found?
I took a picture.. the best proove i can give TS to show that i was in London... is the London Apple Store at Regent street.
This is a picture i took while walking on the bridge accross the Thames to go to Waterloo Station again, not sure what building it is but i liked the panorama.
As for the rest, i have a date now to to London so i'm going to fix on job opportunitues now, since i can give them a date that i'll be available that will be better.
I know i'll have to wait with searching for a room till a week before going, and probably have to go search my options when i arrive in London on october 2nd.
Maybe even again ending up in a Hotel for one night... i'll see (((sigh))).
If she just had told me about those things
Post by: gunug on September 17, 2006, 05:42:59 PM
Post by: Mrious_be on September 17, 2006, 10:48:05 PM
QUOTE(gunug @ Sep 18 2006, 12:42 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I was meaning to ask how the whole thing works: I mean can you a citizen of another country easily find a job in England? And is this because you're from a country that is in the EU?
Going to work and live in UK is much easier for me then going to work and live in the US yes, and yup... that's cause i'm a member from the EU community (just as Smiley is).
Recently they changed the rules again to make it easier on EU citizens to move from one country to another within the EU communnity, they said it should be like moving inside your own country but... well let's just say it's not that easy
Once you start the entire process and start looking for information to live and work abroad, you'll find that every country that is inside the European Economical Space (all Eurozone countries and a few more that don't have the Euro like UK, Scandinavian countries, Austria etc...) all have a service office inside their unions that helps people with moving from one EURES country to another, which is where i started out
Hmmm... not entirely, cause i started out at a European Information Point close to where i live, and they send me to that EURES point.
It's not all that easy though, i need to change things like social security, tax, domestic address and probably some others when moving over and need papers on most of them.
Allthough moving over is basicly leave here, move in into UK and go sign myself in at their registers...
So moving is easy, but it's everything else that might get tougher.
Post by: Mrious_be on September 20, 2006, 09:43:46 AM
Ok, been a few days, sorry
What i have been doing the last two days is thinking over my options i had on bank account and cellular phone provider (Uk) and decide how to go with it all.
I went to a store in London that provides multiple carriers for cellular phones, hoping they would offer me the best choice.
The person helping me explained me that, when applying for a new cellular phone SIM card automaticly gives you a free cellular phone.
That's nice off course but i told him i had a phone and i just want a new SIM so i could call in the UK.
I was going with it though and already dreaming from the SonyEricsson K800 he was offering me... it was the cheapest option, about 35 UK pounds.
That is about 47 Euro and i did found it abit to much.
Once home i checked out the O2 website and found there were a few options cheaper than what he proposed.
And, even SIM only options.
But even with those options i'm about to pay 20 UK Pounds and probably more as you call every month.
Figured that 25 UK Pounds a month for a SIM card, which is about 37 Euro, is already more than the average off 20 Euro i pay now.
So i decided for the time being to keep my Belgian account, and only call in emergencies (cause it will be international off course).
Also decided to keep my own bank in Belgium together with the Visa card i have.
First of all, it will be hard for me to get a Visa card in the UK since i have to earn a certain ammount of money every year before you can have one.
But also cause, like the GSM provider, some contracts will be keep on going for a while, and i'll just make sure that there's some money on it to provide for it.
Last thought i have been having is... transportation
Transportation in London between zone 1 - 3 will cost me about 100 UK Pounds a month, and that's about 150 Euro
So i'm thinking if i'm better off bying a bycicle here in Belgium and ship it to London (or take it with me on Eurostar if possible).
Still thinking about that actually
As for the rest...
- Changed the email on iTunes Account (another reason to keep my bank with Visa Card, although i won't be able to use in UK since it's for a Belgian Store.... an less i'm able to contact the Belgian Store in UK and buy that way... hmmm... have to check that out).
- I booked two nights at the Hotel Meridiana from october 2nd till october 4th.
And planning to see my family and friends before i go, been doing that also
Post by: Gregg on September 20, 2006, 08:31:56 PM
Post by: Mrious_be on September 22, 2006, 09:20:40 AM
QUOTE(Gregg @ Sep 21 2006, 03:31 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Time is getting shorter! Your "check list" reminds me of our planning for our son's summer internship in Germany.
I bet even with all the planning some things were still bound to go different than as you planned
I already had my share of replanning some stuff, or at least rethinking some things over (financials most off it).
Post by: Mrious_be on September 22, 2006, 09:36:23 AM
It's creeping closer every day, and... getting abit nervous here
Just last night I had my landlord on the phone, and he said he's going on a trip to Turkey and will only be back sunday october 1st in the evening.
But i'll be moving to London on october 2nd and i have to be at the station at 10.30 am that day.
So he said he'll be around to check the studio at 8 am, than he has to sign off on my deposit and then i have to go to the bank with that paper to release my deposit and put it back on my own account.
Then i have to go back to the studio, get my suitcases and go to the station.
I rather had it different
now i'm just hoping all will go well for the deposit.Since alot of the stuff is moved out here, and i have paint over i started painting some stuff yesterday.
Also started cleaning things you normally don't look much at.
Like i took the electricity contact plates from the walls and cleaned them completely (they had orange paint on it from previous people who lived here), did the same for the light switches and the telephone contact.
They are still off since I want to paint those walls again also.
By the time i'm out here, this place will be much cleaner then when i came to live here
So today I went to get some plastic to put on the floor when painting and some paper tape to tape edges and stuff.
Also went to the bank to (again) get some UK Pounds.
And I went to get my European Health Insurance card, this one replaces my Belgian Health Insurance and will be enough until i find work in the UK (which makes me eligible to have health insurance in the UK at that point).
Also wanted to get some paper for the union but i forgot my union ID so i have to go back on monday for that one
Didn't realise i should be taking it, thought they would have enough with my name and address... (((sigh))).
Somewhere in between i found a toolbox with small tools specially designed for computers and small electronics
That's a thing I needed, since when i'll be replacing the harddrive in this iBook, I also needed a Torx screwdriver nr 8, I didn't had that, wasn't even sure what it was but it's in the toolbox.
And... last but not least...
I traded my "Call of Duty" and "Close Combat: First to Fight" game in for a copy of "Halo: Combat Evolved".
Might not mean much for most of you, but i'm glad i have Halo again, I had it on XBox but that (and the XBox itself) has been long gone.
I really hope they will ever release "Halo 2" for mac, although i need a new one to play it then, but that's a good reason to get one.
Post by: kimmer on September 22, 2006, 11:43:07 AM
Don't worry the whole landlord thing will work out.
Leaving the place cleaner - good for you!
I'm excited for you and can't wait to hear you've landed in London, and then the adventure will start a new chapter!
Post by: Mrious_be on September 22, 2006, 02:30:18 PM
QUOTE(kimmer @ Sep 22 2006, 06:43 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I'm excited for you and can't wait to hear you've landed in London, and then the adventure will start a new chapter!
And an adventure it will be, since i didn't get a place to stay at the previous trip i'll have to search for it up on arrival
But i booked the first two nights in a hotel so i have a few days.
I will let TS know but i might not be online that fast once in London.
I'll search for a way though, since i want to be in contact with Smiley anyway.
Post by: kimmer on September 22, 2006, 02:55:10 PM
Post by: Mrious_be on September 22, 2006, 03:26:36 PM
QUOTE(kimmer @ Sep 22 2006, 09:55 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Wi-Fi in the hotels. My friend was there a year ago and she was able to log in and say hi.
That's how i got to talk to Smiley last week also
But it's 5 Pounds for an hour and that's alot to do every night, so i'm hoping i'll find a place that has internet included.
But Wi-Fi is there to use so i will when nothing else is available (for a cheaper rate).
Post by: Parker on September 24, 2006, 10:46:41 AM
woahhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
and with that american to pound exchange rate,
that's a real wallet burner
Post by: Mrious_be on September 24, 2006, 01:47:36 PM
Just finished painting the studio
I planned on doing this later in the week but i just started with it and didn't ended it anymore till it was totally done
Saves me some time this week.
Gailwin:
London is pretty expensive on everything.
I saved some money up but i better find work as soon as possible... another reason to push myself to find a job within two months.
Post by: Parker on September 24, 2006, 03:58:21 PM
where everything's cheap for europeans!
Post by: Mrious_be on September 25, 2006, 01:34:06 PM
Been walking around alot today.
So much that when i finally got home again, i was totally beat.
First i had to go to the union to get some print outs (little ID stickers) that i needed to get some papers that i needed for London.
With those papers i have to go to a job office in London and sign up there, have to do it within 7 days.
Now i just have to find one
At that office they said i had to return to the office for health insurance in Antwerp and get another form also... grrrr... just been there a few days ago.
Went home again, and then brought some stuff to my mum's appartement again, to store away, it's getting pretty empty here.
Just brought the printer to mum's place also, installing the driver for mum's pc and sister's mac.
Then i went to buy some more paint, have to paint the ceiling
I guess I don't have to since the ceiling was like this when I moved in but i'm getting pretty paranoid that my landlord would not return my deposit ((sigh)).
I'll find an extra day to do that also.
An extra day... that's pretty weird to say since there is nooooo extra day... 6 days, that's all that's left here
After bringing the paint home (10 L by public transportation and on foot, a good thing i had a plastic bag with paper tissue so it didn't cut my hand to much), i just had some lunch and took some rest.
Been resting ever since then
hehehe.Gailwin:
Hehehe...
I knowwww it's cheap for europeans... but it's hard to get into (to work and live) and it takes yearssssss before they finally (really) allow you to stay as an american citizen.
At least in London i'm a EU citizen so it's basicly the same as being in Belgium.
Plus, i really love the historic scenery in London, it's so amazing to just walk around there.
Our original plans were for me to move to Boston but at the end, we both felt that London was much better for us.
Post by: kimmer on September 25, 2006, 01:57:35 PM
Sounds like everything is coming together well for you. I'm glad.
Post by: Mrious_be on September 25, 2006, 02:10:46 PM
QUOTE(kimmer @ Sep 25 2006, 08:57 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
When you're finished painting your ceiling, pop on over here to my place. I'd like to repaint the bathroom.
Yuk... i don't really like painting.
I do it cause like I said I don't want to give my landlord a reason not to return my deposit.
And I think you'll be cheaper hiring one in US to repaint your bathroom
Post by: kimmer on September 25, 2006, 04:35:28 PM
QUOTE
And I think you'll be cheaper hiring one in US to repaint your bathroom
Wouldn't be as much fun, though.
Post by: krissel on September 25, 2006, 11:03:12 PM
QUOTE(Mrious_be @ Sep 25 2006, 02:34 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
T - 6 days
... but it's hard to get into (to work and live) and it takes yearssssss before they finally (really) allow you to stay as an american citizen.
... but it's hard to get into (to work and live) and it takes yearssssss before they finally (really) allow you to stay as an american citizen.
Gee, that hasn't stopped about 30 million people from coming here and staying illegally.
Too bad Belgium isn't geographically next to the US.
Post by: Frances144 on September 26, 2006, 01:57:10 AM
I also know some folk in London too who might be able to help, if that is any use.
Cheers
Frances
Post by: dolphin on September 26, 2006, 07:48:27 AM
QUOTE(Mrious_be @ Sep 25 2006, 02:34 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
T - 6 days
Plus, i really love the historic scenery in London, it's so amazing to just walk around there.
Plus, i really love the historic scenery in London, it's so amazing to just walk around there.
If you haven't been to the Tower of London...GO! The Crown jewels are phenominal. How did they ever lift those heavy Gold goblets???
Post by: Mrious_be on September 26, 2006, 11:09:34 AM
Today most i did is cleaning this place where i could.
Been emptying the kitchen, putting some stuff i have left in a bag for mum, can't really take everything.
Also went back for those papers from our health insurance, it's all worked out
Brought a few little espresso cups to charity since i never use them anyway (don't drink coffee at home anymore).
I also got stuck in traffic with public transportation hehehe... i guess that's the downside of all the working going around in Antwerp.
Dolphin:
We have seen the Tower of London when i was in London with Smiley
And yes, as sooooo many buildings in London it was a great visit.
At that point we got the London Pass for 3 days and we saw about 3 spots every day... what a good price that was.
I think our climb up on the stairs of Saint Paul's Cathedral was the most amazing thing though, what a view
Frances:
Really thanks Frances.
I will let you know when i need help, i'll let TS know how it is going anyway
Thanks.
Krissel:
Would be easier now yes... but i would still like Belgium to be a part of the EU
Hmmm... would it actually be easier if Belgium was bordered to the US?
Not sure if Canadians have it that easy to immigrate to the US... or Mexicans.
I guess it depends on the political contacts at that points.
Oh well... we aren't neighboring countries so let's not thinkg about it
But hey... maybe they find a place within the US to host 10.400.000 citizens
Post by: krissel on September 28, 2006, 12:49:58 AM
That was what I meant by Belgium bordering the US, you could stroll on over.
Good luck and hope you get some sleep in the next few days.
Post by: Highmac on September 28, 2006, 02:53:31 AM
Your Visa card should work OK in UK - we use our Nationwide Visa card in Spain with no problems. Nationwide is a building society (mutual) rather than a bank.
Check out Virgin mobile - depends how much you use your phone. I use Pay As You Go. 15p a minute for the first five minutes each day, then 5p a minute. Takes me months to get through £20. You can also pay in advance at some ATMs. Virgin mobile tariff
Must go - have to get to work
Post by: Gregg on September 28, 2006, 07:41:32 AM
Post by: Mrious_be on September 28, 2006, 10:10:53 AM
Woooooow.....
There's no way back now... this morning I went to the "districts house" (governement house in each district of town where they assist with local and official papers and stuff) and i signed out from the residence register.
Sooo... according to belgian law I am now without an addres and they could arrest me if they play it strictly
So now i'll just have to sign myself into the register in London as soon as possible.
Feels weird
Yesterday and today were all about cleaning... well most of the days that is.
And it will be like that the next days also.
This morning I did something that was about 4 years ago, since I started going to a drycleaner, ironing my shirts that is... 3 of them
Better get used to that since I'll have to do it in London also.
Edit:
Today was the last day i cooked here as for the next days I am invited to family or friends are coming over and we'll go out for dinner.
Feels weird, already packed my plates, cups and utensils (typo?)
Gregg:
If you mean unplugging the internet, that will be on sunday (for TS) and monday morning for Smiley, and that's also when I won't be able to be online anymore till I find a way to be online in London.
My internet service will be cancelled somewhere next month, I already requested it.
They will send a confirmation letter later, when they send it over here (to this addres) our post office will forward it to my mum's addres (a service they offer here and i will request to use for 6 months).
If you mean umplugging by means of electricity... that's not really needed as i will have electricity till i leave.
I already have forms from the electricity company to fill in (there's a meter in the basement and i have to note the numbers down, those numbers will mark the end of me using the electricity here... I'll do that together with landlord).
And yup, I'm on an iBook, ready to take with me to London (he's looking out for it).
Highmac:
My Visa will be ok yes, the only thing I'll have to take in account is that i won't really be using my Belgian account, I just keep it for a while and... well also cause it has the Visa on it.
But I better realise that every purchase I do with the Visa, i have to deposit money to the belgian account (or ask mum hehehe)... but I won't be using it much, just emergencies.
I should however give my bank my addres in London since the Visa has to have the correct addres (in case they do an ID check on the card).
This kinda means that, when I give a London addres for the Visa card... I think I'll have to switch iTunes Music Store also.
For now I can only use the Visa on the belgian iTunes Store cause it has a belgian address on it, so I think that will change when i change the address to a UK one.
Anyway... I have to set up a bank account in the UK as soon as possible anyway but I won't be having a Visa that soon.
You mention Virgin Mobile....
I guess they have alot off operators in the UK
That guy from the store (neutral store offering more than one provider) mentioned O2... just another option I guess.
For now, i keep the belgian one for emergencies, at least till I find a job so i can afford a UK one.
Then again... I was thinking that when Smiley calls me on this belgian number I still have to pay roaming costs... so it wouldn't be free for me... so maybe it's better after all to switch.
But I'll look into that once I'm in the UK.
All info is helpful.
Krissel:
Aaaah... I see
"Stroll on over"... that sounds simpel hehehe... which I could do it that easy.
Post by: kimmer on September 28, 2006, 12:25:24 PM
QUOTE
This morning I did something that was about 4 years ago, since I started going to a drycleaner, ironing my shirts that is... 3 of them
Oh, I love to iron. You'll find it grows on you.
Three days! Gonna miss you while you are offline.
Post by: Mrious_be on September 28, 2006, 12:34:23 PM
QUOTE(kimmer @ Sep 28 2006, 07:25 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Oh, I love to iron. You'll find it grows on you.
Well I sure hope the habit grows into me cause 1 hour for 3 shirts.... hmmm.... not so sure
I sure will find internet access as soon as possible, can't miss Smiley to long either
Post by: Mrious_be on September 29, 2006, 10:29:23 AM
Twooooo days left... gosh... it's getting closer
Today i spend half a day (this morning) at my mums place waiting for a person who was going to stop by to check the telephone connection to connect ADSL onto it, and my mum had to work till 12.
The person was to come between 8am and 1pm and i stayed there till 12.50 pm then went home thinking he wouldnt come anymore.
He arrived at 1.10pm
Oh well, I wasn't needed for that anyway, I did hoped I could install the ADSL before going to London but that's not going to work anymore, pitty.
After that i got some lunch and went home to clean my kitchen and bathroom.
And now i'm just waiting for a friend so we can go out for dinner, last time I will see them (friend and wife) for a long time
Post by: kimmer on September 29, 2006, 01:28:57 PM
QUOTE(Mrious_be @ Sep 29 2006, 08:29 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
And now i'm just waiting for a friend so we can go out for dinner, last time I will see them (friend and wife) for a long time
Ahhh ... but think of the wonderful new life that is waiting to unfold in London for you. You'll make new friends to blend with the old friends, you'll enjoy new experiences, and you'll have fun (hopefully) doing it all.
I do know the feeling of saying goodbye to friends. I cried when we saw our dear friends the night before we moved. Our friendship goes back over 30 years ... and we all cried a little. BUT - we keep in touch via email and the phone and that's a good thing.
So hang in there, MB. I do hope you had a good dinner.
kimmer
PS: Sorry about the ADSL thingy - I hate waiting on install/repair people.
Post by: Mrious_be on September 30, 2006, 01:52:43 PM
Amazing day... I wanted to say I'm happy that it's over but then I realise that it's only one day left tomorrow... it is getting to me
You have a good point Kimmer but I still feel really weird inside, last night I was saying to Smiley that I actually feel like I was there with her and had to say goodbey again, cause I know it's going to be harder to talk to her (in the beginning) when in London.
But in 6 months she'll be there also, so I just think about that
Thanks for the reply Kimmer, nice to read it
So today, around 8am my brother came and as I promised we went to a breakfast before the big move, a nice ommelet with veggies.
Around 9am we started moving everything that was left here, except for the thing I have to take with me or the things I need for cleaning this place.
Since we had to walk down and up 4 floors everytime (no elevater) it took a while but we did it, and we finished it around 2pm.
After that I started painting the ceiling, having a huge plastic sheet to cover the rest but I still managed to spill abit here and there.
So once finished doing the ceiling, I moved everything that was still here on the kitchen floor and cleaned the entire place up.
Then while drying... I went out for dinner
And now I'm here talking to Smiley
Tonight I'll be going to sleep at mums place and tomorrow we'll having a family gathering (BBQ) to say goodbye to all off them... weiiiiiiiird....
But that's for tomorrow
Goodnight
Post by: Larry on September 30, 2006, 02:52:39 PM
QUOTE(Mrious_be @ Sep 10 2006, 04:55 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
T - 20 days
It's sunday, so i couldn't really do anything interesting that has to do with my moving to London.
So in stead i went to mum to hang some shelves against the wall
It's so exciting thinking i'll be living in another country in 21 days, exciting, but also getting abit nervous.
Although i'm trying to do alot in advance, i'm pretty sure that there will be things i haven't thought about or i could have arrange better.
Up untill now i have been focusing on moving my furniture and stuff i don't want to take to London (at first move) to my mum's basement at her appartement.
So at this point i'm sitting in a half empty studio, typing on my cute iBook.
Lots have to be moved over, i'm doing that little by little and sort out what i really need to take with me and what don't, and what i might take with me in a later stadia.
I'll be moving over on october 1st (or second).
Once there i will focus on finding a job, for this i gave myself 3 months but i'm pushing that date, and that goal is 2 months.
Next friday i'll be going to London for two days (one night at a hotel) to check out choices i'll have gathered upon then for flats/house shares.
This means that i'll be renting a room in a flat or house form someone, and i will have a shared bathroom and kitchen.
It's amazing what options you have with that in London, people are doing this cause they know the rent is pretty high in London.
I'll add more information from day to day now.
It's sunday, so i couldn't really do anything interesting that has to do with my moving to London.
So in stead i went to mum to hang some shelves against the wall
It's so exciting thinking i'll be living in another country in 21 days
, exciting, but also getting abit nervous.Although i'm trying to do alot in advance, i'm pretty sure that there will be things i haven't thought about or i could have arrange better.
Up untill now i have been focusing on moving my furniture and stuff i don't want to take to London (at first move) to my mum's basement at her appartement.
So at this point i'm sitting in a half empty studio, typing on my cute iBook.
Lots have to be moved over, i'm doing that little by little and sort out what i really need to take with me and what don't, and what i might take with me in a later stadia.
I'll be moving over on october 1st (or second).
Once there i will focus on finding a job, for this i gave myself 3 months but i'm pushing that date, and that goal is 2 months.
Next friday i'll be going to London for two days (one night at a hotel) to check out choices i'll have gathered upon then for flats/house shares.
This means that i'll be renting a room in a flat or house form someone, and i will have a shared bathroom and kitchen.
It's amazing what options you have with that in London, people are doing this cause they know the rent is pretty high in London.
I'll add more information from day to day now.
Post by: Mrious_be on September 30, 2006, 03:31:25 PM
QUOTE(Larry @ Sep 30 2006, 09:52 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I'm resident in London UK so if you need any help or advice pm me.
Hi Larry
Thanks for the offer, I gladly accept it in case I really need some help in London.
One thing I haven't really been able to check out is if London libraries really do offer free (wireless) internet?
I thought I read once they do but not to sure anymore about it.
Thanks again
Post by: kimmer on September 30, 2006, 06:57:26 PM
QUOTE
But in 6 months she'll be there also, so I just think about that
Wonderful!!!!!!!! This is a special dream for you both to hold onto, and I'm very happy for you two.
QUOTE
Tonight I'll be going to sleep at mums place and tomorrow we'll having a family gathering (BBQ) to say goodbye to all off them... weiiiiiiiird....
When my immediate family moved from Illinois to California, we had a 2 big family BBQ's. They were both joyous and sad, but they remain special memories for me. So I hope you enjoy your time with your family. Just think, eventually they will come visit you and you will be able to show them the sights and sounds of London as only a "Londoner" can do.
I wish you the best, and look forward to you finding time/place to drop in and let us know how things are going.
kimmer
Post by: krissel on October 02, 2006, 04:08:31 AM
We await your return to TS with news that all is well.
Post by: Gregg on October 02, 2006, 07:37:15 AM
Post by: Mrious_be on October 02, 2006, 12:26:39 PM
Amazingggg I am here
And it feels good
This mornign didn't started well though.
The plan was to meet the landlord at 8 am, he can then check the studio I lived in so he could release my deposit and then I planned to go to the bank at 9 am (openings hour) to cash the deposit back onto my account.
Then by 10.30 am to Antwerp Central Station to get the train to Brussels, there to get the Eurostar into London.
The landlord arrived at 9.30 am though, being stuck in traffic almost all the way.
Not really his fault off course but I was close to panicking
He released the deposit so I could go to the bank.
I arrived there at 10 am (((sigh)))
By the time I was out again it was 10.15 am so I decided on ordering a cab and just go to Brussels with the cab, cause I totally didn't felt like humping on yet another train.
Not to forget that i was carying all my lugage with me.
I arrived at Brussels Station nice on time so I could finally sit down for a nice capuccino and have a croissant to eat... finally something to eat.
Didn't had anything to eat since 5 am that day
I got up at that time to go to my studio (was sleeping at mum's place) and clean the last things and packed the bags and... talking to Smiley since I had internet there.
Oooh... I did managed to install internet at mum's place actually, they brought in the ADSL modem on friday so I could still come true to my promise by installing it before I went.
The BBQ was really great yes (thanks for all the replies people, due to my batter going down here and since I have to pay by the hour I am not replying each and everyone though, sorry).
It was good to see the family and i had a great time.
Although 3 bad rain showers tried to spoil it, and one of them even had hail shower, really bad but really short also.
Lucky enough we were in a tent and the BBQ itself was under an umbrella so all was (almost) well.
It was fun
Maybe i'll be able to upload some pictures on a later date.
Now I am in a little hotel called "Hotel Meridiana" and the room I have is really small but lovely, I like it.
That's it for now
I'm hungry as hell so i'm out to eat, then out to call options on renting a place.
See you on next time.
Post by: Paddy on October 02, 2006, 12:31:32 PM
http://www.londonlibrary.co.uk/wireless/wireless.htm
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/4020241.stm
QUOTE
A study revealed that 86% of visitors to the Library carried laptops.
Wow! (Looks like it didn't start out free but is now? You do need a library card though, according to the first link)
Post by: Highmac on October 02, 2006, 04:54:38 PM
From memory, to get a library card, you just need proof that you either live or work in the council area - something like an electricity or gas bill with your name and address on it, or your office security pass for work, plus something with your signature (ID card, etc).
So you might have to find a fixed-address home before you can get a library card.
Anyway, hope you enjoy your stay.
Post by: kimmer on October 02, 2006, 05:18:00 PM
Post by: Parker on October 02, 2006, 10:19:15 PM
;-)
i loved it compared to the new york city subway system
oh so nice and clean
and i can do a perfect immitation of the announcer's computer voices
:-D
Post by: RHPConsult on October 02, 2006, 10:28:27 PM
Post by: Gregg on October 03, 2006, 07:24:37 AM
Post by: Mrious_be on October 03, 2006, 02:06:12 PM
Thanks for the links
Haven't checked the links for now, but i did found the (really nice) library (building) at Kings Cross and it did say it had wireless yes.
This was before opening hours though so i couldn't check it out at that point.
I guess I need a permanent address for everything, as for the library pass I also need it to get a cellular phone contract by month.
But i found a room people
So I will have an address fast
Kimmer:
Haven't found much food yet
The chinese food I had tonight wasn't really to good either (((sigh))).
Oh well, soon I'll be able to prepare something myself at my room (well at the kitchen that is).
Gailwin:
It's really funny you mention that.
Cause I noticed that people really start to exploit those voices.
I guess you know the voice constantly saying "mind the gap" at the tube.
I have been t-shirts that say "f**k the gap" but without the asteriks's off course lol
RHPconsult & Gregg:
Thanks guys
The transition is already taking place hehehe.
Weirdest thing is, today somebody told me I have an Irish accent
Gosh... that's a first somebody told me that.
Post by: gunug on October 03, 2006, 03:13:19 PM
I hope you will be very happy there!
Post by: Bill-R on October 03, 2006, 08:02:25 PM
Congrats MB - I hope you find that you are happy in your new surroundings. I have recently moved from one city to another and love it!!! (not nearly as scary as moving from one country to another like you did) Have a Great one!!
Post by: JohnKentucky on October 03, 2006, 08:10:54 PM
Post by: themagpie on October 03, 2006, 08:23:36 PM
Margie
Post by: Mrious_be on October 04, 2006, 12:55:02 PM
For those who know London a little (and also for the other ones) I found a room in a house (to share) at Manor Park, close to Stratford.
It has good connections into downtown London andddd.... bus 25 straight to Oxford Circus... where the Apple store is (Regent Street crosses Osford Street close to that stop) so what do i want more
I'm so excited, i really love it and the surrounding is really peaceful.
So it's like working in a crowded London to go home into a peaceful area.
And, the town Stratford is one of the towns that will be guest town for the London Olympics in 2012, so they have the countdown clock at their market, amazing.
Smiley will come over March next year and at that point we'll be searching for our own place in London.
Yup, that's the next thing i am looking out for.
Post by: Mrious_be on October 04, 2006, 01:40:35 PM
Latitude: 51°33'1.44"N
Longtitude: 0° 2'34.66"E
Or, if you click here it should download a zip file that, when unzipped, contains a Google Earth shortcut straight to the house.
Let me know if it works.
Have fun
Post by: kimmer on October 04, 2006, 02:10:04 PM
QUOTE
Or, if you click here it should download a zip file that, when unzipped, contains a Google Earth shortcut straight to the house.
Let me know if it works.
Let me know if it works.
"Sorry, de gevraagde pagina kan niet gevonden worden.
Page not found - HTTP 404"
I'm off to try your coordinates.
Okay - they worked super. Nice area. You have a park nearby, and other big buildings. Maybe a church?
Now we count down to March.
Post by: RHPConsult on October 04, 2006, 05:25:23 PM
Whata way to send a "postcard" home!
Post by: amaizen_aristotle on October 04, 2006, 08:51:13 PM
I must say I have really enjoyed checking in on this thread to read of your adventures. I am glad to hear that things seem to be working out so well for you thus far. I wish you continued success on your journey, and by all means keep us posted on what's happening.
AA
Post by: chriskleeman on October 05, 2006, 01:22:51 AM
The last time I was in London was years ago, but it was and has been for many years an unbelievable place on earth! I hope you find great Chinese food, always a favorite of mine for sure. Soho has some great Chinese restaurants, fyi, take a look at the menus in the windows and go for it! I found the best Chinese in London by perusing the menus in the window boxes... in fact, what I had there still has yet to be topped in Boston or New York!!! The restaurant is probably long gone or changed, but the Indian food in London is also insanely good! I hope you have found a great new home! Don't be afraid to ask the locals for their favorites, because they know!
Best wishes for a great new beginning!
Chris K
Post by: Xairbusdriver on October 05, 2006, 05:57:29 PM
Weirdly named 'company' but that seems to be the 'norm'.
Post by: krissel on October 06, 2006, 12:05:57 AM
I used those coordinates in Google Earth and I ended up at the edge of a cemetery.
I know you were looking for something quiet and cheap, but....
Post by: Mrious_be on October 07, 2006, 08:54:28 AM
QUOTE(krissel @ Oct 6 2006, 06:05 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I used those coordinates in Google Earth and I ended up at the edge of a cemetery.
I know you were looking for something quiet and cheap, but....
I know you were looking for something quiet and cheap, but....
Hahahaha
OMG... I am not going to think to much about this
As far as I know it's not a cemetery... hehehe
Like you said, it is quiet and peaceful but not that cheap.
Funny
Chris:
I haven't tried out Indian and Chinese food (although I did tried a take-out chinese at Kings Cross but that wasn't to good).
But I must say.... NO chinese food can be as good as the "Hong Kong Eatery" in Chinatown in Boston.... nooooooo way
That place has really great food.
Well only one kitchen is better, and that's my Smiley's cooking
If you are in Boston, try it.... you have to.
There's a great Dim Sum place also in Boston but I don't really know the name and/or address from it, I could ask Smiley but you'll have to wait a little then.
Airbusdriver:
Thanks for the software link.
I am not gonna test it out (for now) cause I have plans with it that I don't want to lay out for now.
All I can say is that the Logo is finished
Update:
It has been 2 days that I updated this topic so here it goes.
As for the moment, I am having difficulties on my bank account... in Belgium... go figure... never had problems of a serious nature and now there are two payments that doesn't seem to come through on my account.
First payment, my unemployment payment from last month is not arriving (about 1000 euro).
Second payment, the deposit that has been set free and should be deposited back onto my account is a payment of about 830 euro.
A simple math shows that for the moment I am missing out on about 1800 euro (1200 ponds) that I counted for
Since I promised myself that whatever happens, I should not panic... I am not but this is getting pretty annoying since I have to find out what is going wrong here.
Lucky enough I have mum going to the bank for me so I hope at least to have a reason for the delay on monday.
I also started to search for a job now.
As requested before I left to the UK, I signed up in a local Jobcentre in my area and have a confirmation meeting on october 17 to conclude this.
Now I also have to go set up a bank account and drop my pay-and-go (prepaid) SIM card to call cause this is soooooo amazingly expensive.
But I needed an address before I could do that.
I also needed an address for the montlhy passes for the tube (Oyster Card) so that's something I can apply for too now (already filled it out).
The room is really cosy, and the house is really great to be, just like the neighborhood is, love it.
Honestly, I feel much better being in London then I felt in Antwerp, it must sound weird to you people but it is.
Just being here makes me feel like smiling
The people are great to, all Italians hehehehe.
Already have been to some local supermarkets (like a Tesco Express) to see where I can buy what I need.
There are alot of stores at the station in Stratford and the connection between Kings Cross, Stratford and the place we live are really great.
Ok, now I am going to check my mail and then off to home again.
An update will be for monday or tuesday (since it's weekend now I won't be able to do much I guess).
Post by: kimmer on October 07, 2006, 12:07:16 PM
QUOTE(Mrious_be @ Oct 7 2006, 06:54 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Honestly, I feel much better being in London then I felt in Antwerp, it must sound weird to you people but it is.
Just being here makes me feel like smiling
Just being here makes me feel like smiling
Doesn't sound weird at all. I know the feeling. I smile a lot more since Sneakers and I moved here to the coast of Oregon. Even in the rain, the storms, the snow, the rough times - I smile. I'm happy and content. I think you must be the same.
Good luck on the job hunting.
Good luck on the bank issues.
Stay happy and enjoy!
kimmer
Post by: Mrious_be on October 09, 2006, 04:21:16 AM
QUOTE(kimmer @ Oct 7 2006, 06:07 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Doesn't sound weird at all. I know the feeling. I smile a lot more since Sneakers and I moved here to the coast of Oregon. Even in the rain, the storms, the snow, the rough times - I smile. I'm happy and content. I think you must be the same.
Yup... I do
Even with the problems I am having with my money transfers I still feel ok (although I want them resolved lol).
Thanks
Post by: Mrious_be on October 09, 2006, 09:50:18 AM
QUOTE(Mrious_be @ Oct 7 2006, 02:54 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
As for the moment, I am having difficulties on my bank account... in Belgium... go figure... never had problems of a serious nature and now there are two payments that doesn't seem to come through on my account.
---
Now I also have to go set up a bank account and drop my pay-and-go (prepaid) SIM card to call cause this is soooooo amazingly expensive.
---
Now I also have to go set up a bank account and drop my pay-and-go (prepaid) SIM card to call cause this is soooooo amazingly expensive.
My mum went to both my bank and the union and it should all be settled by wednesday, so I just assume it will be by friday
I also called to my bank in Belgium and they didn't really know what went wrong, as they had confirmation from their head office that the deposit was cleared to go onto my account.
Oh well... it should all be ok by the end of this week.
I went to open a bank account, and they wanted to check my Belgian passport but couldn't
Since US is pressing all thouse rules on other countries after 9/11 (rules which they can not keep up with themself) Belgium is one of the first to fully use digital passports.
A nice move if it wasn't for the fact that nobody has the hardware to read them out
So here I am with a passport that holds my address information (and more) in a chip and they can't read it at HSBC London... wonderful.
I exist but i can't proove it now
So I have to get a written letter from my bank in Belgium (great, I just called them and now I can call them again, hehehe).
Oh well, at least I know what to do
This morning I had my first call for a job in London, pitty it was for a job in Manchester though.
But the guy took notes down and would contact me again, we'll see... he was pretty impressed with my resume... so that's good.
Yesterday afternoon I walked the entire main road from our place up to the station in Stratford (around 45 minutes) just to check out what stores where around.
At the station I wanted to take the rail back to our place... but I found that on sunday there aren't trains in the middle of the day so I just walked the entire trip back lol.
Post by: Mrious_be on October 13, 2006, 08:42:02 AM
I have a bank account
What I did is took a VISA statement with my home address on it to the HSBC bank and showed it to them.
They accepted it and opened an account for me within 30 minutes.... that's aaaaaal it took
Another step to become a fine citizen... oh wait, I am already a fine citizen
Not much else to say for now, still searching for work although I had some contacts.
I also had a few suggestions for doing Freelance so I am looking into that also, but I have to be sure how this work taxwise and legaly.
Post by: krissel on October 13, 2006, 09:07:25 AM
Congratulations on your smooth transition. Sounds like all is going well.
Post by: kimmer on October 13, 2006, 01:17:51 PM
QUOTE
I have a bank account
Super news!!!!!!!! Glad all is going well for you.
Crossing fingers for that job to show up.
Post by: Mrious_be on October 17, 2006, 12:10:38 PM
I'm no longer "illegal" (not that i really was but now at least i'm registered citizen of London, UK)
Only annoying thing i'm having here is that the O2 (cellular phone provider) has a crappy service so i'm thinking to change it.
Now i have an address, a bank account and a social security number so i should be able to change to a full blown monthly paying contract
But i just have to check out which provider, every single provider, and every single store here in London has offers that only applies to them on a certain provider.... it's craaaaaazzzyyyyyyyy
It seems it's even possible that two offices of the same branch (let's say Phone Warehouse) have different offers on a certain cell phone or what ever... that's nuts.
I guess it gives me something to do
Now we just need internet so i can talk to my Smiley on a regular base.
Post by: Frances144 on October 17, 2006, 12:40:48 PM
I lived there for 15 years all over the place. My partner lived there for 30!!!
Enjoy it all. London is great. If you want help, please pm me!
Stratford is a nice area. A mixture of everyone from all over the world, you will not feel alone as everyone is the same!
Take care. Shut your pockets! and don't take anyone on face value. Go with your vibes - you will be right.
Fx
Post by: Highmac on October 17, 2006, 05:11:19 PM
On the mobile phone front - if you already have a phone, check out the Virgin Mobile deals. Open to correction here, but I think you can buy a Sim pack and just use it in your own phone. In any case, Virgin get good reports as having the most straightforward contracts. The Coventry Virgin Store has a phone counter; I would expect they all have.
Virgin phone FAQs
Standard Virgin tariff
Monthly tariffs.
Good hunting!
PS: If you buy a new phone from Virgin, ask for a Freepost envelope for your old one. Virgin will recycle it and send £5 to the British Red Cross.
Post by: D76 on October 17, 2006, 08:04:54 PM
I hope you weren't hit by this HSBC horror show. Maybe you should use HSBC humans until these genii can guarantee the problem is fixed.
Do banks still have humans?
Post by: Mrious_be on October 18, 2006, 09:23:43 AM
QUOTE(Frances144 @ Oct 17 2006, 06:40 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Stratford is a nice area. A mixture of everyone from all over the world, you will not feel alone as everyone is the same!
It is yes, I really like the part of town, not to forget they are going to be a host city for the Olympics
I think that part has to do with the great connections Stratford has to offer to all major parts of London.
QUOTE(Highmac @ Oct 17 2006, 11:11 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Open to correction here, but I think you can buy a Sim pack and just use it in your own phone. In any case, Virgin get good reports as having the most straightforward contracts. The Coventry Virgin Store has a phone counter; I would expect they all have.
PS: If you buy a new phone from Virgin, ask for a Freepost envelope for your old one. Virgin will recycle it and send £5 to the British Red Cross.
PS: If you buy a new phone from Virgin, ask for a Freepost envelope for your old one. Virgin will recycle it and send £5 to the British Red Cross.
Yup...
That is what I did, I bought a 5 pound SIM from O2 and upgraded it with Top-Up vouchers.
But it's really deadly expensive to call in UK and so far i have spend about 60 pounds with O2 plus having a bad connection with them (static, disconnections and everything).
For now I refuse to upgrade my O2 SIM with more money and try to wait till we have the landline on what to decide how to go with my phone.
I am thinking to change yes, but I probably get a monthly one but not with a phone included, as those options are really expensive.
Plus i have a good phone.
But when I do change to a new one it's a good thing you mentioned the Freepost enveloppe
I will check the Virgin Options.
Post by: Mrious_be on October 18, 2006, 09:31:01 AM
QUOTE(D76 @ Oct 18 2006, 02:04 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
I hope you weren't hit by this HSBC horror show. Maybe you should use HSBC humans until these genii can guarantee the problem is fixed.
Well... lucky for me I still have to get my card at the branch (should have done that today but totally forgotten about it) so I guess I got spared of those problems.
Didn't even know till you gave the link.
Let's hope this doesn't happen to much, would be bad for a big bank as HSBC.
And yes, there are still humans working in a bank branch but sometimes you wonder if they still realise they are "human".
hmmmm.... oh well.... i have my account.
Post by: Highmac on October 19, 2006, 02:35:21 AM
Last time I had a problem with mine (figuring out how to make it do something new to me - it had been a replacement) the assistant seemed genuinely happy to spend time solving the problem for me. He made no money out of that particular visit, but he saw a contented customer go out the door! THAT's what makes people go back...
PS: Your nearest Megastores appear to be in Bishopsgate, London, (close to Liverpool Street station) or Romford, Essex. (Type in your postcode in the "store locator" box, top right)
Post by: Mrious_be on October 19, 2006, 08:54:46 AM
QUOTE(Highmac @ Oct 19 2006, 08:35 AM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Going back to mobile phones, I asked in the Coventry Virgin Megastore and was told that, as far as the (very helpful) young assistant knew, all Megastores have a phone counter, but not the smaller "local" stores.
Hey, thanks HighMac
I checked it and it does seems to be the closest yes.
So I might check it out since I pass Liverpool Street twice a day anyway (on my way from home to Kings Cross).
Post by: Mrious_be on October 19, 2006, 09:52:24 AM
I will be going to Belgium tomorrow so I can attend my youngest sister's 18th birthday
When coming back I just take a few more things with me that I couldn't take with me on the first trip over.
Plus I will probably be going to a movie since I been missing out on that one
Another thing I read in the paper is that they are thinking to have the EuroStar end at the Kings Cross Station from next year on, that would bring EuroStar straight to the center of London
Amazing.
Post by: Dick Miller on October 19, 2006, 11:21:35 AM
Dick
Post by: Gregg on October 19, 2006, 12:19:47 PM
Have a good trip, Marcel. I will also be traveling (by car) this weekend. I'll see my sister, but it's going to be my Dad's birthday.
Post by: Highmac on October 20, 2006, 01:53:11 PM
QUOTE(Mrious_be @ Oct 19 2006, 03:52 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
Small update
Another thing I read in the paper is that they are thinking to have the EuroStar end at the Kings Cross Station from next year on
Amazing.
Another thing I read in the paper is that they are thinking to have the EuroStar end at the Kings Cross Station from next year on
Amazing.
They've been rebuilding in that area for at least a couple of years now. Never know it might be finished on schedule...
In the meantime, Marcel, the Virgin website has a competition to Win a trip to Belgium (Flanders) on Eurostar. Appears you have to sign up to Virgin.net, but might be worth having a go
Post by: Mrious_be on October 20, 2006, 02:05:12 PM
QUOTE(Gregg @ Oct 19 2006, 07:19 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
This has got to be the most viewed thread in TS history!
Maybe I should start another topic since I am in London now (well not now since I am in Belgium now).
The topic original was about my countdown and the arrival.
QUOTE(Highmac @ Oct 20 2006, 08:53 PM) <{POST_SNAPBACK}>
In the meantime, Marcel, the Virgin website has a competition to Win a trip to Belgium (Flanders) on Eurostar. Appears you have to sign up to Virgin.net, but might be worth having a go
Woaaaaaaaaaahhhh
I'll check it out tomorrow hehehe.
Well i have my tickets now but it's always nice to have a free trip
The EuroStar now got delayed from Waterloo since... they didn't had a driver for the train
Seems the first machinist didn't turned up and the Co-Machinest was send out with an earlier train.
So this also means that the train before us, also had a problem of some sort since that train was actually the first of the day.
Oh well, we arrived in full health, just abit later than expected and pretty tired.
Post by: D76 on October 20, 2006, 02:59:53 PM
Post by: Xairbusdriver on October 20, 2006, 07:24:35 PM
QUOTE
Maybe I should start another topic
Don't forget that you can always edit/change the Title. On the other hand, long threads can be difficult for new readers to read all at once.Sounds like you've learned how to act like a typical Brit; stiff upper lip, ready for anything, very competent ( except for a few IT guys at HSBC? )!
Post by: Mrious_be on November 06, 2006, 09:30:12 AM
At this point i'm still working on a cold... to get over it that is
Last weekend and some days before were abit bad as I had an ear infection coming up and off course the cold, but I took it easy and it seems to have it's results as most is much better now.
I just have the dumb cold now but ear is totally better again
Since a week and a half I have a contract phone also, but I went to take one at three and till now I am pretty happy with it/
I took this one since the sales person said it will probably be the only one allowing me to get a contract in the UK, as I didn't live longer then 2 year in the UK (he kinda cheated on that on my application).
My unemployment claim still isn't completed so I am still waiting on money in the UK, although in Belgium they said it would be just as being in Belgium, I guess they were only talking about the amount i would receive.
I have 3 weeks left I can live on my own financials but after that...
and I don't want to go back to Belgium So yes, It's getting to me at points.
I can't even do to much from the home since we still don't have internet at home.
Going to an internet point every working day is pretty expensive and I pay about 15 pounds a week (but that's my own fault, I could save some but I just want to talk to Smiley also).
I did had a good interview last thursday but still no result there.
Had some interviews already so that's positive I guess, and with every interview I learn more about the UK market
So here it is, and more to follow when there's something importand to update.
Oh, I have been working on my website, since I have some time to spend at home hehehe.
And playing Civilization 3
Post by: kimmer on November 06, 2006, 11:55:47 AM
I'm crossing fingers and toes regarding the job situation and the money one as well.
Hang in there -- it will all work out!
Post by: krissel on November 07, 2006, 09:55:22 PM
Post by: Gregg on November 08, 2006, 07:21:58 AM
Post by: Mrious_be on November 08, 2006, 09:23:43 AM
A little update for now is that I might have a temporary job for two weeks.
At least I will have some money from it plus it's something I am looking out for, something totally different than what I have been doing.
Seems this company are in need of a Marketing Researcher for two weeks that speak fluent Flemish (Dutch)
It's a nice opportunity and at least I can add it to my Resume hehehe.
So I will be going there in half an hour and keep you updated.