Author Archives: milesmac
Souvenirs – Stop the Madness
Searching for inexpensive Canadian flag pins, stickers or tattoos to take (if everything works out) on the teaching exchange to Australia. This traveller has the right idea, I think… When I was younger I used to buy a small gift for everyone I was close to as a souvenir …after a while I found that … Continue reading
Managing Finances During International Teaching Exchange
Bank fees are at the bottom of the “things I want to spend money on while living abroad” list yet it could be one of the more expensive items if not managed wisely. Being paid in Canada while working in Australia presents some challenges in managing finances during the year. With exchange rates fluctuating daily (at … Continue reading
Traveling with your Laptop Computer Overseas
Started another list today: electronics to bring on exchange We have the usual menagerie of electronics: a cell phone, mp3 devices, a tablet, a laptop, docking stations and chargers. Then there are the personal items, like the razor, hair dryer, straightening iron (I only wish the last two were for me). I expect we’d cancel … Continue reading
Here, take my job and live in my house…
Consider the trust implied in the somewhat flippant title. With a teacher exchange, you’re establishing that level of trust with a complete stranger on the other side of the planet in the few months before the exchange takes place. My home insurance provider said to me, “oh, not to worry… you have reciprocal collateral.” That … Continue reading
Seeking Banking Advice While on Int’l Exchange
Getting paid in Canada, living in Australia. Paying bills both here and there… What is the best way to manage that without contributing too much to the bank’s already massive profits? What strategies capitalize on exchange rates and avoid currency conversion fees? What about transferring funds internationally between banks? What I have found: HSBC has … Continue reading
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