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Tourism On Jamaica’s Southwest Coast - Vacation
Alternatives For The Adventuresome Traveler ~ by
Brendan Fletcher - Most people think that visiting Jamaica means overcrowded
beaches and violence. But this is not so. Brendan takes us out to some
little known areas of Jamaica and gives us a feel of what it's like to
travel in Jamaica far from the normal tourist destinations. Oct./03
From Mobay To Negril ~ One Town At A Time ~ by John Casey - Before we begin our drive to Negril, there are a few things I want to point out. The highway we are going to be traveling is, officially, "A1." This highway actually runs between Kingston and Negril, the long way around. A few other names for this road are North Coast Highway which runs along the North Coast, and Highway 2000. It starts in Ocho Rios and ends in Negril. It is completed from Mobay to Negril but still several years from completion to Ocho Rios. Oct./05
Down on the Farm - Homesteading In Japan - Homesteading In Japan - Homesteading in Japan? If not, why not? The author of of this article, David Markle is a 17 year resident of Japan. He first came to Japan as a student and has resided there pretty much ever since. In this article he covers homesteading in Japan, what it takes, how it's done and where to look. "...some local governments will actually pay you to live in their village. I am not kidding. Granted it is not enough to get rich on, but, believe it or not many localities are falling all over themselves to recruit families especially with younger children, to move to their town. They are offering all sorts of incentives and assistance to try to “revitalize” the countryside." Etiquette, Manners and the Japanese Business World-Doing business in Japan - CEO Richard Bysouth of Career Cross Japan delivers more valuable insight into the world of doing business in Japan. "As one would expect from a country with such a strong sense of hierarchy and honour, there are many unwritten laws regarding etiquette and manners that apply to the business world. Although no-one will expect a foreigner to know and abide by all these "codes of conduct", knowing a few of the basics will go along way to smoothing the path to success in Japan. Getting Out of America ~ Why Not? ~ By Margaret Burke - Working and teaching in Japan might be something you've thought about but never acted on. Right now might not be a bad time to take off and see what that idea that you've had in your head for some time might be like in reality. At least for a while, a life in Japan might add something to your life. May/03 Investing; Surfing WEBS in Japan: Change means profits - Investing in Japan - The Japanese people have sent a crystal-clear message to the government by voting out the bums. We think the political upheaval will accelerate rather than derail reform. We think the odds have improved on Japan engaging in deep-down institutional reform, cleaning up its banks, restructuring its corporations. We expect much more aggressive fiscal and monetary reform moving toward freeing up the Japanese market Japanese And Western Dojo(s) ~ Observations Made By A Westerner Who Lived In Japan With A Master ~ by Dr. Jason Armstrong - What is it like to test for a belt in Japan as a Westerner? Or to live with a Master? This article will try to provide brief insights by reflecting on my time in Japan between 1995 and 2002. I will also reflect on short-term visits to Japan made by my Californian students to test for Dan ranks. I was fortunate enough to have spent part of my time in and around Japan as an “uchi-deshi” – a live in student of a master. On arriving in Japan my comparisons of East vs. West martial arts came from a somewhat experienced viewpoint since I had already been training in Japanese martial arts for more than 10 years, competed at an international level, and had my own dojo operating in California. April/05 Japanese Citizenship - On Your Own ~ by Ahmad Tijani - I've lived in Japan for about seven years which is considered a long time by Japanese people and non-Japanese alike. It is considered a long time because most people don't come here to stay but rather to experience living in "First World" Asia and to earn a bit of money. I had always wanted to live outside the States and had long thought about the possibility of permanently living outside the United States. I wasn't sure where to look but in middle school and high school most of my best friends were from Asia as minorities tended to stick together in my school. May/05 Japanese Drinking Culture ~ A Night On the Town With Japanese Businessmen ~ by Anna Miller - A few weeks ago, I experienced something I had studied about in university and heard much about during my stay in Japan - the company after-work party. Of all the things that make Japan different from western countries, the after-work party always seemed to me to be the one experience that would not be open to me. Japan has a very strict corporate environment. Following World War II, Japan`s push to rebuild its economy left no room for non-comformity. Business men (and recently, businesswomen) habitually worked longer than the western standard of 8 hours, sometimes staying over at the office when they missed the last train home. Jan/05 Living
In Japan ~ Restoring
A Home In The Japanese Countryside ~ by Ahmad Tijani/Asigo Chi - How
do you restore and repair a house that may be fifty to 200 years old?
As with any house in need of repair you have to ask yourself can you foot
the bill or do you need a loan. Who will do the repairs? The first
thing to remember is that there are always options. Feb/04
Point Your Mouse Cursor To A Job in Japan ~ How to Find A Job In Japan Before You Leave ~ By Celeste Heiter - Japan is a country with a beautiful mix of the modern and the mystical. Maybe the greatest commentator from the West on Japan was Lafcadio Hearn who wrote about the beauty of Japanese gardens in the 1890s. For him the the key to appreciating a Japanese garden was learning to understand the beauty of stones - stones shaped by nature, not men. And for Hearn the trees, stones and flowers of a Japanese garden were aesthetically mesmerizing. Teaching English in a country with mesmerizing gardens, wonderful food and a mystical sensibility might just be the land to replenish your soul. Dec./02 Predictions for 2000 and beyond - A Major Prediction - Voters have already lost interest in the next presidential election -- and it is still 10 months away. They are bored with the candidates and tired of the whole numbskull process of electing them. Raising a Blonde Samurai ~ Moving to Japan with Kids - Moving to Japan with Kids - Cynthia Cudmore-Mulder has lived in Fukuoka, Japan, with her Dutch-Curaçaoan husband and their young son for the past five years. In January, they'll be moving to Isla Taboga and into retirement. Of Japan, Cynthia says, "Our five years in Japan is coming to a close. With tears, affection, anger and laughter we’ve embraced our adopted culture. Japan is a wonderful country, full of new opportunities and experiences, but we are constantly reminded that we are outsiders in their contradictory world of ancient tradition, discipline, state-of-the-art electronics, and the birthplace of Pokemon. In order to survive and function here we had to be open-minded and adaptable. It is, after all, their culture, and we have loved our years in Japan." July/02. .
Resources for the Japanese Job Market - Finding a Job in Japan - CEO Richard Bysouth of Career Cross Japan, tells Escape from America readers about the ins and outs of where to look for Japan's job vacancies and what it's like in the Japanese workplace. Richard writes, "The typical Japanese worker tends to view the use of time rather differently then a western one. With the western approach, emphasis is placed on completing a task in the most efficient manner and within the shortest time possible. For the Japanese, it is considered more important for the whole team to work together to accomplish a goal. Each individual will know the limit of their responsibilities and what is expected of them, and will work selfishly to complete that task in hand. The concept of "thinking out of the box" or looking for a quick result are very rare indeed and are often frowned upon. However the Japanese approach does ensure the end result will be something that is unanimously acceptable to all and is as complete as possible." “The Gaijin Life for Me” - Teaching English in Japan - Teaching English Abroad - I went to Japan with no definite plan on leaving. It was a post-grad school adventure, and a time to be without a plan. Right after graduation with a master’s degree in social work that I wasn’t keen on using right away, the interim goal was to find a job teaching English abroad, most likely in Asia somewhere. An ad in the Boston Globe lead me to Nova Group – what turned out to be a corporate-run extensive network of English language schools all over Japan. Ways to make big $$$ in Japan - Ways to make big $$$ in Japan - As you're probably already aware, Japan is a very unique place. No where else in the world will you find the same outrageous opportunities to make money that are open to just about anyone. By Matt Canham Mar/06 Why
I Still Can't Speak Japanese ~ But
Still Trying ~ by Anna Miller - Every time I think about it, I cringe.
The anger is trapped inside, compounded be the anger and embarassment of
countless other incidents. Often my friends back home marvel at my
ability to live in Japan and it is at times like this, when I feel so worn
out and with nowhere to turn, that I feel about ready to pack it in.
Of course, ten minutes later, there`s always something new and interesting
to catch my interest and revive me. Aug/04
Working in Japan. A word from a veteran... - One of the best Expat Destinations - Japan is still one of the best EXPAT destinations for both professionals and ordinary people who want to reap in a high return for their work. I've been in Japan for 7 years, and worked in 5 different cities and 4 different industries. - - f you've just got out of college and just want to make a quick buck to pay back your student loans or travel around the world try IT jobs in Tokyo. Companies are desperate for programmers & Internet project managers. You can make a bundle.
Residence, Immigration & Work Permits - Special Feature From LowTax Online TaxWire - Residence, Immigration & Work Permits - In an ongoing effort to provide a cross-section of the best offshore information on the internet, EscapeArtist seeks out the best online resources. We are really excited about a new website and news letter called, Low Tax Online NewsWire - In this issue of Escape From America we present a Special Feature from the NewsWire on Residence, Immigration & Work Permits. Countries covered are: Bahamas, Bermuda, Gibraltar, Guernsey, Hong Kong, Ireland, Isle of Man, Jersey, Mauritius and Panama. An excellent resource from a valuable newsletter. If you intend to invest offshore you need current information from an effective source, the LowTax Online TaxWire is as good as it gets. Their international editorial staff provides up to date information from around the world.
Kenya Property Investment Guide - The True State of Real Estate in Kenya - Kenya Property Investment Guide - The True State of Real Estate in Kenya - There’s an interesting and intense debate going on in Kenya right now about whether or not the Kenyan real estate sector is actually experiencing a boom. Some local constructors deny evidence that a boom exists while many of the country’s property speculators are talking up all the evidence they can find to prove to the wider world that the Kenyan property sector is actually the place to be right now for maximum gains and profits. So where exactly does the truth lie and what does it matter anyway? By Rhiannon Williamson Mar/06 Short Term Work Resources ~ Resources for Locating Jobs Abroad - Resources for locating Summer Jobs & Short Term Employment Abroad -Transitions Abroad has collaborated with Escape from America Magazine to bring escape artists a broad and exhaustive compilation of job opportunities in over 30 countries all over the world, including a regional guide to the Mediterranean, Latin America, Central and Eastern Europe, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. In addition to that treasure, this page and the next offer sound leads to serving in a voluntary capacity, as well as teaching overseas at some of the world's most prestigious schools. In following issues of Escape from America Magazine, we will be adding to this valuable resource on a regular basis. We know how important our Jobs Overseas section of your magazine is, and we're doing something about it. Check it out.
Castle Hopping In Korea - The Beauty Of Korea ~ by Brandon Walcutt - Standing atop the fortified castle wall, I look down at the mist shrouded shapes of pine trees crowding the mountain slopes. I can easily imagine troops of armored soldiers marching their way up the steep trails towards the high stone walls. This is not an image of Europe that we are describing, but one of South Korea. Korea is more than just the home of kimchi, the DMZ and red-shirted soccer enthusiasts. Korea has a rich, five thousand year history that is still easily accessible to travelers. One of the favorite things many visitors enjoy experiencing are the castles that dot the Korean countryside. May/05 Investing in Korea - Investing in Korea - A Korean business man spent four years developing a relationship with a Malaysian. The Malaysian finally agrees to a joint venture in Malaysia. But, he wants a contract with guarantees in the event of breach. He also wants to use modern accounting methods and have a means to keep track of the money. The Korean backs away making lame excuses. The real reason is that he did not want anything in writing, especially a contract. His remark was, "You must understand the Korean way. This is how we do business in Korea. You don't trust me." He openly displayed insult over the Malaysian distrust. It was an affront to his honor and reputation. Actually, he would have disappeared all of the cash and the Malaysian was smart enough to know what the Korean was about. The deal never happened for good reason. Korean
Lessons ~ Restrooms
And Toilets ~ by Tim Myers - When you move to another country bathrooms
can be one of the things that you first run into that will make you say
to yourself, "Ain't like home". In Costa Rica the bathrooms were never
finished, in Panama they were always too dirty. When I lived in the deep
interior of Panama I used to have to go to an outside bathroom that was
really just a hole in the ground with a board over it and some concrete.
You had to be careful because bats flew around in the hole below the toilet.
Nov./03
Relishing Narcissus in South Korea- Living in Korea - Barry Walsh is wandering the world trying to find a place between the gloom of mundane routine and the vivacity of the new. Sometimes travel makes it happen, even on weekend getaways to the environs of mountain hermitages of South Korea. Walsh writes, "This is bliss. I am the only Westerner traveling today as always, but whereas during the week I am detached, now I feel I belong. My weariness of heightened cynicism is replaced by a tempered tranquillity, my spirit found by renunciation. To me this is what experiencing a foreign culture is all about. I have done nothing uniquely Korean on my journey, but my self-assurance is sufficient. I ask the bus driver in my limited Korean how long the stop is for. I already know – it’s always the same – but right now my self-love is smothering my self-consciousness. While in the toilet, I observe my appearance – why don’t I have a girlfriend?" Seoul Diary - Living & Working in Seoul, Korea - Living & Working in Korea - "So, before long, I found myself on a Korean Air 747 soaring over the Arctic, on the way to teach at a private school that I had never seen or heard of before. Though it didn’t seem so at first, moving to Korea turned out to be one of the best career moves I ever made." David Ritchie supplies readers with information about living and working in Korea. He lives and works in Seoul. He writes the “SeoulTalk” column for Seoulscope, the city’s entertainment magazine. His 16 published books include Will America Survive? (Cambridge India, 2000). South Korea as a Potential Expat Haven - Moving to Korea - Compared to other destinations around the world, South Korea has been overlooked as a destination for those looking for alternatives to life in North America. Most expatriates know about Japan, Thailand, and the Philippines—but few have made an effort to settle in South Korea.Those who choose to expatriate to South Korea can take advantage of opportunities in the following areas: business and consulting, education and training, and, of course, the Internet. And, retired professionals and retired military personnel are living quite happily here. Squid Island ~ Ullungdo, South Korea - Squid Island - Richard S. Ehrlich is from San Francisco, California, and first journeyed to Asia in 1972. Ehrlich writes, "At night, Islanders tie undried squids to indoor racks. Down by the seashore, fishermen's trash buckets are filled with discarded squids' eyes, but the rest of the slippery animals are carefully gutted. They have turned isolated, middle-of-nowhere Ullungdo into a boomtown with tentacles. The island offers moody, inspiring, rocky hills and a seemingly hostile coastline." August/02.
The
Other Korea ~ The
Underbelly of South Korea ~ By Eileen Meehan - A short commentary on
the role of women in South Korea. What do South Korean men want and how
are they going about getting what they want? And what role do Russian women
play in this little dance? The analysis given in the above article looks
at South Korea through the eyes of the West and does a very good job of
laying out the differences of Western and South Korean worldviews. July/03
Mekong Fish And Bordeaux - Thanksgiving In Laos ~ By Jared Simmons - The Mekong River is the 12th largest in the world. The River originates in China and flows through Myanmar (Burma), Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. What would it be like to travel down the Mekong? In Laos there is still strong French influence but this influence is mixed with Buddhist monks in yellow robes holding red umbrellas. There is also great food and a friendly atmosphere. And behind it all the great River flows by. Jan/03
ANTI-AMERICAN
SENTIMENT ~ Politics
In Latin America ~ by Mark McMahon - Have been in Latin America for
8 years and have never been harassed about my American citizenship. Now,
I've be harassed, but about other things. Like taking a piss in the wrong
yard or laughing to loud in a quiet bar. Mark has his own vision of this
and when you live outside your own culture, breeding, rules and norms you
learn what it feels like to be seen as different and strange and even dangerous
- but you always find your friends and then get on with living. Nov./03
Escape
to Lebanon ~ Travel
To Lebanon ~ by Elienne M. W. Lawson - Nice travel article about passing
through beautiful Lebanon. The country has great mountains and valleys;
it also has great beach towns that were favorite hang outs of the rich
and famous in the 50s and 60s. The country is on the way back and might
be a place to invest in in the near future. Sept./03
Lebanese Real Estate Investments - Lebanese Real Estate Investments - From multimillion-dollar tourism projects to single-owner apartments in the capital, Gulf investors are increasingly looking to Lebanon. A look at the regional players. Jun/06 Lebanon Beyond Beirut - Four Must-Do Day Trips ~ by David Lavoie - Beirut is wonderful, a cosmopolitan Mediterranean city famed for its friendly people, exclusive shops and fine restaurants. The Solidaire quarter of Beirut especially is worth the trip to Lebanon, but there is more, so much more to see in Lebanon, and some of it is outside the capitol and easily done as a day trip. Here’s a sampling. These world-famous caves are immense and absolutely spectacular. Located about 18 kilometers along the highway north of Beirut in the valley of Nhr el Kalb, Jetta Grotto is formed of two galleries, the lower gallery being opened only in 1958. One visits it by boat, since it is home to an underground lake, a trip of about 500 meters. Mar/05
Luxembourg
~ A
Confluence Of Culture ~ by W.B. Sullivan - I saw the giant red spheres
at first from a distance. They rested calmly on the side of a steep grass
hill facing a large rocky outcrop ominously known as the Bock. The spheres
lay about, in no particular order, resisting gravity and descending haphazardly
towards the confluence of the Alzette and Pétrusse Rivers in the
meandering valley below. Feb./04
Offshore Stock Exchanges - Special Feature From LowTax Online TaxWire - Offshore Stock Exchanges - In an ongoing effort to provide a cross-section of the best offshore information on the internet, EscapeArtist seeks out the best online resources. We are really excited about a new website and news letter called, Low Tax Online NewsWire - In this issue or Escape From America we present a Special Feature from the NewsWire on Offshore Stock Exchanges. Countries such as Bermuda, Ireland, Jersey, Cyprus (maybe), Hong Kong (already) and Mauritius are cleaning themselves up for what could be a glittering future. This report includes some of the offshore jurisdictions with Stock Exchanges, their Regulatory Basis Including Listing Rules, Trading and Settlement, Costs of Listing and additional resources. Short Term Work Resources ~ Resources for Locating Jobs Abroad - Resources for locating Summer Jobs & Short Term Employment Abroad -Transitions Abroad has collaborated with Escape from America Magazine to bring escape artists a broad and exhaustive compilation of job opportunities in over 30 countries all over the world, including a regional guide to the Mediterranean, Latin America, Central and Eastern Europe, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. In addition to that treasure, this page and the next offer sound leads to serving in a voluntary capacity, as well as teaching overseas at some of the world's most prestigious schools. In following issues of Escape from America Magazine, we will be adding to this valuable resource on a regular basis. We know how important our Jobs Overseas section of your magazine is, and we're doing something about it. Check it out.
An
Island With Sapphire Fever ~ Madagascar's
Hidden Wealth ~ by Rabenilaina Harinia Cyrille - Excellent article
about the history of gold and sapphire exploration in the north of Madagascar.
The above article examines the atmosphere at the sapphire pits and talks
a little about the history of Diego Suarez - a northern port town that
is said to have a bay as beautiful as Rio de Janiero's. Sept./03
Discover The Secret Of Isalo - Adventures In The South Western Corner Of Madagascar ~ by Harinia - One of the most frequented National Parks in Madagascar is Isalo. From Antananarivo the RN7 will lead you to Isalo National Park. Taking the road, you will reach the province of Fianarantsoa (408 km from Tana) before arriving in Isalo (206 km from Fianarantsoa.) Situated in the south western corner of Madagascar, the lsalo range raises its rocky heads on the distant horizon. May/05 Getting Around Antsiranana ~ In The Extreme North Of Madagascar ~ by Rabenilaina Harinia Cyrille - As I mentioned, Madagascar is a wonderful, tumbledown Indian Ocean island where people laugh at hardship. Diego Suarez, situated in the extreme north of Madagascar, considered one of world’s most beautiful and widest bays, is a county town but also the third port of the continent island. Diego Suarez harbor, named after the two Portuguese explorers who “discovered Madagascar, is on the island’s northeastern end. Their names are: Diego Diaz, who discovered it in 1500 and a sailor, Fernando Suarez that visited it in 1506. Sept./04 Hira Gasy ~ Music In The Highlands Of Madagascar ~ by Rabenilaina Harinia Cyrille - Malagasy people like dancing and singing. From the North to the South, from the East to the west, by the way of the High plains, Madagascar sings and dances. Not only to modern rhythms, no necessarily to world music. Like the other countries in the world, Madagascar has its own culture and tradition. This tradition is alive and kicking throughout the country in many guises. Popular culture needs no electricity, stage or professional artists. In a country so impregnated with the memory of its ancestors, songs and dances remind of the depth of its roots whilst at the same time entertain the community. Such diversity is in keeping with the size of the country which comprises 18 ethnic groups, despite obvious similarities from on group to another. Dec./04 Humpback
Whales Around Sainte Marie Island ~ In
Madagascar ~ by Rabenilaina Harinia Cyrille - From Toamasina, Nosy
Boraha or - Tamatave in French, and about 370 km from Antananarivo -
is one of the most important ports on the East Coast of Madagascar, from
this port town you can easily reach Sainte Marie Island by boat or by plane.
The island is also called Nosy Mbavy, that translantes into “the women’s
island”. June/04
In
The South Of Madagascar ~ Among
The Harsh Beauty Of Isalo ~ By Rabenilaina Harinia Cyrille - The south
of Madagascar is blessed with great beauty and that is nowhere more evident
than in Islao National Park. There are animals and vegetation that can
be only seen in the Park. There are hidden pools and jagged rocks. Old
hotels and brilliant sunsets and walks through the moonlight. Time to go.
June/03
Madagascar
In A Nutshell ~ Photographing
The Red Island ~ by Veronica Verve -When one thinks of traveling to
a far off tropical get-aways, Madagascar usually does not come to mind.
This truly extraordinary travel destination has much to offer both the
budget traveler and the high roller for adventure. The lavish way to explore
Madagascar is by 4x4, otherwise public transportation via taxi-brusse or
bush taxis are readily available; however be prepared to wait for the taxi-brusse
to reach maximum capacity with humans and farm animals. You don’t mind
a couple ducks underneath your feet do you or a goat tied to the roof?
Aug/04
Nosy Be - The Little Great Island In The North Of Madagascar ~ by Rabenilaina Harinia Cyrille - Nosy Be, situated in the North of Madagascar, in the Mozambique Canal Waters. This great island has been granted several nicknames in the course of centuries. The most relevant of those nicknames seems to be “Nosy Manitra” (the scented island in Malagasy). Getting down from the plane in Fascene airport, you will feel the ylang ylang, frangipani tree, coffee, cocoa, vanilla, cinnamon, sugar cane balmy fragrances are almost being aggressive towards you. March/04 Tanà - The Nights In Madagascar's Capítal ~ by RAJAONA TOKY A - Hidden behind the moistness of the night comes a town with no possible comparison, Tanà, the thousand-lighted city. From wherever you may come it’s always the same festivity; with a variety of feelings, this town has something exciting. Jan/04 The Fascinating Coral Reef In Toliara, Madagascar ~ Diving And Traveling In Madagascar ~ by Harinia - One of the most frequently visited provinces in Madagascar is Toliara. From Antananarivo the RN7 will lead you to Toliara. Taking the road, you will reach the province of Fianarantsoa (408 km from Antananarivo) before arriving in Isalo (206 km from Fianarantsoa.) Situated in the southwestern corner of Madagascar, the lsalo range raises its rocky heads. Jan/06 The
Tsingy Of Belo Sur Tsiribihina And The Royal Bath ~In
Madagascar ~ by Rabenilaina Harinia Cyrille - Nia takes us to the south
of Madagascar where tradtions run deep. The landscape and people are magical
and there is plenty to see and do. If you're thinking about visiting Madagascar
be sure to drop a Nia a line; he would be the perfect person to talk to
about planning a trip to the "red island". Nov./03
Beautiful Sipadan ~ In Malaysia ~ by David Lavoie - Sipadan Island is both famous and infamous. A tiny, tropical forest-covered island of only thirty acres floating in the royal blue of the Celebes Sea, it has been declared both a protected area and a bird sanctuary by the Malaysian government. The island is indisputably the most famous dive destination in Malaysia, with diving giants like Jacques Cousteau praising enthusiastically the wonderful diversity of its marine life. Dec./04 Can It Be Done ~ Living in Paradise without Working - Book Me on that Passage - David McDowell is somewhere in Malaysia on his own private beach. The only real issue in his beach life is reminding his girlfriend to keep her hands off him while he's soaking up the rays. They wreck his suntan, he says. Compare his life's issue to that of your own. How did he get there? Why doesn't he have to work to stay there? Read this article and find out that any sustainable income stream is possible. He's solved the age old problem of supporting one's self without having to work. And it didn't take rocket science, amigos. Kuala Lumpur’s Chinatown ~In Malaysia ~ by David Lavoie - Nestled among the newer buidings are many reminders of the ethnic distinctiveness of this vibrant part of Kuala Lumpur. Buddhist temples resplendent in the red and yellow so loved by Chinese people everywhere face trendy, very up-scale stores like “Peter Hoe’s” where everything sold is subtle and elegant, not a trace of red or yellow in sight. On the streets, traditional stands sell fried seafood, spicy tofu, bean curd,fish garnished with chilis, and, of course, noodles everywhere. At one stall Miriam, my wife, stopped to consider the purchase of a (genuine, I swear) Rolex for only $20 US. At another I considered the bright red t-shirts with a Canadian Tire logo reading "Cannabis Tire" and featuring the familiar green five-leafed plant. Feb./05 Lost In Borneo ~ Deep In The Forest Of Borneo ~ by David Metz - I'm scared crazy and my body is shaking terribly. I had just heard two shotgun blasts fire off in the night. It’s late, as I'm startled awake. I'm camped on the only trail that follows a narrow ridge deep in this remote region of Borneo and I fear Murut hunters are coming my way. With animist beliefs and modern weapons, surely they would fire at any animal or man foreign to them, including myself. Jan/06 Malaysia’s Steamy Capital - Malaysia’s Steamy Capital - Kuala Lumpur’s massive Chow Kit market assaults the senses, especially the eyes and nose. Stalls are piled high with eggs, slaughtered poultry, and bloody chunks of meat. There are luridly coloured Indian sweets, homemade cakes, and bulging-eyed fish. Fruit stalls are a colourfest of tiny yellow finger bananas, green and orange mangoes, lychees, limes, and scarlet-skinned dragon fruit. Jun/06 Malaysian paradise: no planes, trains, or automobiles - Malaysian paradise: no planes, trains, or automobiles - There are no roads and no cars. The calmness is invigorating to your senses. The sounds of the tranquil days and peaceful nights are many - gentle waves rolling softly on the beach, the birds in the dark jungle surrounding you, and like minded people enjoying life as it should be enjoyed. No stress, no discomfort. During the day there are activities to keep you busy, if you so desire; or you can do what I did most of the time - relaxed by the sea, read or ate…..and …..slept….well you get the picture. Oct./06 Mataking Island ~ Diving With Danielle ~ by David Lavoie And Photographs by Danielle Horsnell - She glides through the water like a sleek fish, her eyes constantly scanning for life so miniscule I can barely see it. Danielle is not only an excellent diver, but also a very good underwater (UW) photographer, hence her search for subjects. By her example, she has been teaching me a different sort of scuba than I have been used to pursuing. It’s called macro-diving, looking for the sea’s smallest and most fascinating inhabitants rather than moving more quickly and hoping for sharks and manta rays. Jun/05 Perhentian Islands - Unique Travel - The Perhentian are a cluster of islands off the East coast of the Malaysian Peninsula and are only accessible by a one hour boat trip from the main land. There are two main islands, known as Besar and Kecil or more simply big and small island. Both rise up out of the sea covered in a lush tropical rainforest and are fringed by palm fronted, white sand beaches. Roads are non-existent and the only way to get around is by the many small boats which ply round the islands delivering guests, food, and collecting rubbish. Unlike more famous Asian beaches, the Perhentian islands are remarkably undeveloped and no high rise hotels, loud bars or concrete disturbs the natural landscape. Retire to an English-speaking, crime-free land of rainforests, headhunters, and tropical beaches - Retire Overseas - Malaysia is a place where most visitors consider staying longer. The government is inviting foreign retirees to Malaysia as permanent tourists, and you don't have to be British or have silver hair to qualify. It's cheap, it's safe, there's little or no language barrier, and the diversity is astounding. Here's the A-Z on why living in Malaysia on a permanent or semi-permanent basis is a concieveable prospect. .
Sabah: A Coconut in the Shade - Sabah: A Coconut in the Shade - Consider Sabah, one of two states that comprise East Malaysia, on the northern tip of Borneo. When I was a kid poring over atlases in the library after school, Borneo was the end of the earth, a land of mysterious and terrifying headhunters and fevers, from which few returned. Today you can take packaged river cruises in the Indonesian part of Borneo, to the south, and venture into its dark heart where headshrinkers may even still be removing neuroses by removing heads. Sept./06 Successful Living in Malaysia ~ Being a Student of Life - Kuala Lumpur - Caroline Couronne tries to show the country to expatriates the way a local would see it. She writes, "You should remember not to order pork and alcoholic drinks when eating with Muslims, not to help yourself with Chinese Tea while forgetting to serve other table members, not to offer a welcome hug to your guests but instead a soft and polite handshake. Knowing the basic rules is crucial, when you happily poured soy sauce on a special home made fish dish, your host will simply not re-iterate invitations." August/02. Thai
Visa Run - Off
To Malaysia ~ by Bart Walters - Last week I engaged in a common occurrence
among expats here in Thailand—the visa run. Both my business partner and
I were due for out 90-day excursion outside the Kingdom of Thailand, to
satisfy our non-immigrant B visas granted to us for business purposes.
Visas and changes in visa policy are part of life as a foreigner in the
Kingdom of Thailand. Until recently, visa and work permit requirements
for most western developed countries and rich Asian countries were pretty
relaxed. Visa extensions, long-term, and multi-entry visas could be had
cheaply and hassle-free. April/04
Travels With Yanni ~In Malaysia ~ Written And Photographed by David Lavoie - I’ve been “on the road” with my dive buddy, Yanni Arshad. Yanni is famous in Malaysian diving circles where she is well-known by her nickname, “The Borneo Turtle.” A professional tour organizer, dive master and dive guide, who works for an outfit called Planet Scuba in the Bangsar section of Kuala Lumpur, Yanni is a great person to know. Her nickname comes from the fact that she was born in Sabah on the island of Borneo, she loves sea turtles and she is completely at home in the water. Yanni is unique. Jul/05
Cruise to Malta - Cruise to Malta - You have seen Napoli, been to Capri, visited Sorrento, and toured the Amalfi Coast, now back to Rome? Maybe not. Are you intrigued by the idea of a cooling sea cruise to an exotic island nation that has been at the crossroads of the Mediterranean since antiquity, been plundered innumerable times by pirates, and played host to a storied band of knights? Why this island was even once pawned by an impoverished king to pay his debts. April/06 Malta The Mediterranean Jewel Where Corporations Pay Tax Rates Of 12%...4%... ~ Even Zero! ~ by Dr. Marco Griscti - Malta, which gained independence from Britain in 1964, joined the European Union on May 1, 2004. Any Maltese-registered company can freely trade under the “passporting” system, which also means that any license or authorization issued by a Maltese authority is automatically recognized in the other EU member states. The Malta Financial Services Authority (MFSA) issues licenses, including: Jul/05
Malta's Market Battle
- Malta's
Market Battle - With
new European destinations such as Bulgaria, Slovenia and Croatia offering
two and three bedroom apartments for sale for US $80,000, there was concern
last year among some Malta estate agents that 2005 could see a drop in
the number of international Irish buyers choosing to buy a holiday
home on the Mediterranean island. With good all year round temperatures
enticing many buyers for the winter months as well as the summer and a
warm welcome from the local population who nearly all speak English, Malta
has been popular for some years among overseas property buyers. Jul/05
Renting month to month in sunny, southern Europe - Renting month to month in sunny, southern Europe - inger in beautiful Italian cities like Rome and Florence. Portugal is another good bet for a longer stay—winters here are mild, trains go everywhere, and you can do a lot of exploring from an Algarve base or the Lisbon coast. The Mediterranean Islands Of Malta And Gozo ~ Exploring History ~ by Jörg M. Unger - The Republic of Malta lies only forty nautical miles south of Sicily at the 36th degree of latitude – almost the same like Monterey, California, or Nashville, Tennessee. Up to the Ice Age, the islands were part of a land bridge between Italy and North Africa that was flooded when the ice began to melt. Since then the waters of the Mediterranean sea have shaped Malta’s coastline and created a fascinating scenery. Because of the island’s strategic position north of Africa’s shoreline, it attracted numerous kings and emperors with their warriors and legions in the antiquity, as well as the Knights of St. John in medieval times. April/05
When I First Discovered Escape Artist Magazine I Was Looking To Do Just That, Escape! ~ Escape To The Marshall Islands ~ by George Johnson - I don’t know what your motivation is in wanting to “escape” to exotic lands, meet new friends and experience special cultures and customs but, for me I was just tired of the same old same old. I had lost my fiancé to another man. Jan/06
Offshore Stock Exchanges - Special Feature From LowTax Online TaxWire - Offshore Stock Exchanges - In an ongoing effort to provide a cross-section of the best offshore information on the internet, EscapeArtist seeks out the best online resources. We are really excited about a new website and news letter called, Low Tax Online NewsWire - In this issue or Escape From America we present a Special Feature from the NewsWire on Offshore Stock Exchanges. Countries such as Bermuda, Ireland, Jersey, Cyprus (maybe), Hong Kong (already) and Mauritius are cleaning themselves up for what could be a glittering future. This report includes some of the offshore jurisdictions with Stock Exchanges, their Regulatory Basis Including Listing Rules, Trading and Settlement, Costs of Listing and additional resources. Residence, Immigration & Work Permits - Special Feature From LowTax Online TaxWire - Residence, Immigration & Work Permits - In an ongoing effort to provide a cross-section of the best offshore information on the internet, EscapeArtist seeks out the best online resources. We are really excited about a new website and news letter called, Low Tax Online NewsWire - In this issue of Escape From America we present a Special Feature from the NewsWire on Residence, Immigration & Work Permits. Countries covered are: Bahamas, Bermuda, Gibraltar, Guernsey, Hong Kong, Ireland, Isle of Man, Jersey, Mauritius and Panama. An excellent resource from a valuable newsletter. If you intend to invest offshore you need current information from an effective source, the LowTax Online TaxWire is as good as it gets. Their international editorial staff provides up to date information from around the world.
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