YOUNG COUPLE LOOKING TO MOVE TO ORLANDO A.S.A.P

[MARKANDLORNA]

Hi

This is our first posting on your forum.

We are a young married couple with a seven month old daughter who would love to relocate to orlando or surrounding areas.

We have visited many times & call it our second home, but now we have our little girl we want to make it our only home.

So we can give her a much better quality of life & also the same for us.

We also have a dog who is only 18 months old & we ant to take her too, she has been chipped, but what we don't know is does she have to be put in quarantine when she got there???

Mark is a nightclub & radio dj & lorna is in admin, but in our times we have worked many different jobs (I.E bar work buliding work) & we would turn our hands to most things..

What we would like to know is how hard is it to find a job out there, we are using the internet & have already applied for several jobs over the last 2 weeks.

We also have a house to sell, so we would come over with a good amount of money, as we brought our house at the right time.

Can anyone help us with our dilemma???

We are so keen to do this for our family, someone has told us the best way is to get a job with an english pub because they are run by fellow brits & they know how hard it is to get a job & most are more than glad to help... IS THIS TRUE????

we really hope someone can help us with this.

Look forward to hearing from someone soon

MARK, LORNA BABY MAISIE & BONNIE THE DOG.

[blott]

Hi MarkandLorna

Welcome to the forum!

How hard is it to get a job in Florida? Well, pretty hard if not impossible I would say. First any employer needs to convince the US Immigration that you're uniquely qualified for the job and that there are no qualified American workers who could be employed. Second, it involves loads of paperwork for the employer and most small to medium size businesses wouldn't have the resources or be willing to bother if they can get American workers.

If you have lots of equity in your UK home, you could try looking into an E2 visa which involves buying a business. There are previous threads on this on the forum so have a look at them and see if that's a suitable course for your circumstances.

There are loads of us who would love to live in Florida too if only it wasn't so difficult to do so!

Have a look at the US Embassy website http://www.usembassy.org.uk/cons_web/visa/niv/nivindex.htm which gives info about the types of visas and what's required to obtain them.

[MARKANDLORNA]

Hi

Thanks blott for all your help

We would have about $50,000 to come out with from the house sale.

Now after reading pages on this forum i dont think that will be enough.

My wifes grandfather was born is chicago but has spent most of his life over here, but my in-laws are both retired with a good amount of money & pensions, could my wifes mother go for it though her dad being born in the states & then with my wife being her daughter????

Thanks for the quick reply

mark&lorna

[blott]

I don't think $50k would be enough either.

I don't think it would make any difference... read this link http://www.usembassy.org.uk/cons_web/visa/iv/ivindex.htm and http://www.usembassy.org.uk/cons_web/acs/passports/robirth.htm

[chrizzy100]

quote:Originally posted by MARKANDLORNA

Hi

This is our first posting on your forum.

We are a young married couple with a seven month old daughter who would love to relocate to orlando or surrounding areas.

We have visited many times & call it our second home, but now we have our little girl we want to make it our only home.

So we can give her a much better quality of life & also the same for us.

We also have a dog who is only 18 months old & we ant to take her too, she has been chipped, but what we don't know is does she have to be put in quarantine when she got there???

Mark is a nightclub & radio dj & lorna is in admin, but in our times we have worked many different jobs (I.E bar work buliding work) & we would turn our hands to most things..

What we would like to know is how hard is it to find a job out there, we are using the internet & have already applied for several jobs over the last 2 weeks.

We also have a house to sell, so we would come over with a good amount of money, as we brought our house at the right time.

Can anyone help us with our dilemma???

We are so keen to do this for our family, someone has told us the best way is to get a job with an english pub because they are run by fellow brits & they know how hard it is to get a job & most are more than glad to help... IS THIS TRUE????

we really hope someone can help us with this.

Look forward to hearing from someone soon

MARK, LORNA BABY MAISIE & BONNIE THE DOG.


You'd need a degree or 12 year at a job needed in the USA.....even then right now it would be hard work finding a company to bring you over......way to many Americans are out of work ......all H1B visa are gone until Oct.....that was on the news last night....so the Americans will be looking to the States to fill posts over the next few months .....

We would find it hard enough even with a greencard to get a job in a different State....everything is slowly picking up over here.....but unless you have something to offer America that it can't get here......hopes of moving are slim.....

[MARKANDLORNA]

well hopefully i can find a good radio job

and the company would help get me my visa

we are just sick & tried of it over here (it's the pits)

thanks for your help though

mark and lorna

[chrizzy100]

quote:Originally posted by MARKANDLORNA

Hi

Thanks blott for all your help

We would have about $50,000 to come out with from the house sale.

Now after reading pages on this forum i dont think that will be enough.

My wifes grandfather was born is chicago but has spent most of his life over here, but my in-laws are both retired with a good amount of money & pensions, could my wifes mother go for it though her dad being born in the states & then with my wife being her daughter????

Thanks for the quick reply

mark&lorna


We came over with $60k....but houses were cheaper 4 years ago....and all that went in under a month.....we had everything paid for by the company bringing us over....if not that would of taken a large amount of the $60k.....fights...hotels until you find a home.....storage of anything you bring over....bringing anything over.....in your case...a good dog kennel ..until you have your own home and all the vets bills..rabies jabs.....heartworm tabs....etc....(no your dog does not need to go into quarantine) ...renting a car...taking driving tests....buying a car...and all the costs that come with that one........you need very deep pockets to move over here.....

[Newhomebuyer]

Friends of mine got a soft furnishings franchise. They answered an advert whilst on holiday. Got the job and with it all the appropriate paperwork. This was about ten years ago but they were in their sixties at the time. They are very happy and would not wish to return to the UK.
Everyone told them that it wasn't easy but it all just fell into place for them.
There is a book by Roger Jones called "Getting a job in America"
ISBN 1-85703-677-8 which may be helpful to you.
Good Luck!! If its what you really want I am sure you will find a way.

[MARKANDLORNA]

hi

I cant believe how helpful everyone is being on this forum

We are coming out on the 2nd of may for 17 days & we will be having a good look round then.

We are still hoping we can a fellow brit out there with a pub or bar to help us....

We can live in hope

mark & lorna

[chrizzy100]

quote:Originally posted by MARKANDLORNA

well hopefully i can find a good radio job

and the company would help get me my visa

we are just sick & tried of it over here (it's the pits)

thanks for your help though

mark and lorna


You could try finding a radio job.....thats something I know nothing about...a few jobs come under different visas.....actors...painters....tattoo artists........writers......they have a different visa....maybe radio work falls under that......

I'm going to give my 2 cents.....after the first few months of moving......living in the USA.....is just the same as being in the UK.....if not for the US flags flying in carparks etc....I could still be home......you go to work.....kids go to school......you shop.....etc.....The USA has a few more downside......small amounts of holiday time.....long hours.....you have to always have in the back of you mind the loss of your job......you need say....$20k back up money for the day you walk into work and they tell you you're nolonger needed.....no warnings that the company is laying off people unlike in England...just clear your desk and out.....so you need money to pay bills..to keep your home...and pay for healthcare for months on end until you find more work....you have no welfare ...no free healthcare for your kids...to fall back on.....it is a better life for your kids living in the USA.....but its hard never ending work and worry for you......

[chrizzy100]

quote:Originally posted by MARKANDLORNA

hi

I cant believe how helpful everyone is being on this forum

We are coming out on the 2nd of may for 17 days & we will be having a good look round then.

We are still hoping we can a fellow brit out there with a pub or bar to help us....

We can live in hope

mark & lorna


We should be down in Orlando in May roundabout the 6th till the 13th.....We'll be more than happy for you to pop round to our home for a chat and see what help we can give.....I'll e-mail you our phone numbers.....

[MARKANDLORNA]

Hi

chrizzy that would be fantastic

any help we can get we are more than grateful for

We are both not afraid of hard work as long as it gets us what we want in the long run

thanks
again

[chrizzy100]

quote:Originally posted by MARKANDLORNA

Hi

chrizzy that would be fantastic

any help we can get we are more than grateful for

We are both not afraid of hard work as long as it gets us what we want in the long run

thanks
again


We were once told that we would never get to move to the USA....and we're here....so never say never.......I'm not sure how helpful we can be.....but talking to people who have made the move over face to face....is a lot better then doing it here or by e-mail.....I'll have to dig out the number of our FL house......I'm not sure what it is.....LOL!

[esprit]

A fellow Brit with a pub or bar cannot employ you, it would be ilegal and if he is on a visa himself, more than his life or status is worth to do so. My son is here on a legal visa with no work status and a fellow Brit cannot even employ him part time, we cannot even employ him!!! You are looking at Florida like it is Spain where you can do this, you cant.
To get a job as a radio DJ, you would need labor certification, ie. your employer would have to prove to immigration that he needs you because there is no American who can do the job. Is he a specialist type of DJ? No chance with an ordinary job in admin.
Sorry to be doom and gloom, I really wish I could tell you different but I would not wish to mislead you, especially with a new baby, your stability is too precious for you to up-root yourself on a no-hoper.
The business route is still there and at 1.92 to the £, you probably do have enough money for E2 business as they are flexible on the $100.000 though it may mean renting rather than buying a home to live in. E2 doesnt lead to green card but if you are thinking of more kids, being the parent of an American citizen does......

[Nicjmc]

Yes,to all those say it can`t be done it can.Firstly my husband found work with an american company in the uk.After working there for 18 months,he enquired about possibly working in the states,3 months later we moved out with the company paying for everything.Maybe we were lucky,but it is possible.We love it in the States.[msnsmile2]

[chrizzy100]

quote:Originally posted by Nicjmc

Yes,to all those say it can`t be done it can.Firstly my husband found work with an american company in the uk.After working there for 18 months,he enquired about possibly working in the states,3 months later we moved out with the company paying for everything.Maybe we were lucky,but it is possible.We love it in the States.[msnsmile2]


And the same thing happened to us......luck was on our side.....but its not going to be the case all the time.....its easier to find work in the USA if you have what an American company needs.......
I know a lot of people think a few of us put downers on peoples plans to move over here......but the facts are its a very hard thing to do for 90% of people from the UK.....and its never going to happen at all for most.....visa's are very hard to comeby.....
Now if like the young couple here.....who are coming over to FL when I'm there I'm more than happy to tell them the ups and downs of a move.....what they could do over the next few years to get a visa....becoming a nurse ...things like that....maybe after talking they'll think the US is not for them.....
We're not being nasty or unhelpful.......we have to be honest....and the honest fact is......the USA does not hand out work visa's and greencards to people like smarties....the chances are you're not going to get one..........

[chrizzy100]

quote:Originally posted by chrizzy100


quote:Originally posted by Nicjmc

Yes,to all those say it can`t be done it can.Firstly my husband found work with an american company in the uk.After working there for 18 months,he enquired about possibly working in the states,3 months later we moved out with the company paying for everything.Maybe we were lucky,but it is possible.We love it in the States.[msnsmile2]


And the same thing happened to us......luck was on our side.....but its not going to be the case all the time.....its easier to find work in the USA if you have what an American company needs.......
I know a lot of people think a few of us put downers on peoples plans to move over here......but the facts are its a very hard thing to do for 90% of people from the UK.....and its never going to happen at all for most.....visa's are very hard to comeby.....
Now if like the young couple here.....who are coming over to FL when I'm there I'm more than happy to tell them the ups and downs of a move.....what they could do over the next few years to get a visa....becoming a nurse ...things like that....maybe after talking they'll think the US is not for them.....
We're not being nasty or unhelpful.......we have to be honest....and the honest fact is......the USA does not hand out work visa's and greencards to people like smarties....the chances are you're not going to get one..........



Oh a lighter note........and talking about smarties......don't bring in the red ones.....they are ilegal in the USA.....you have been warned......[msnsmile]

[esprit]

You are talking about L1 inter company transfer visa. THE BEST WAY TO COME!!! And someone else foots the bill. No everyine can get a job with an American company though and even if you do not all US companies are willing to transfer you out here........

[chrizzy100]

quote:Originally posted by esprit

You are talking about L1 inter company transfer visa. THE BEST WAY TO COME!!! And someone else foots the bill. No everyine can get a job with an American company though and even if you do not all US companies are willing to transfer you out here........


I wish people had told me that under the rules of an H1B...if my husband lost his job...we would have to leave the country within 10 days......
even if our greencard were being filed......a few people had to leave their homes and everything in them behind in the last lot of lay offs......some people with kids were given 3 months to sell up and leave.....but my friend and her husband could of been sent back to the UK after he lost his job within months of their greencards coming......lucky so many people would layed off that week...they were all left on wages for 3 more months..with call back...so the cards came in time.....he even had a new job......but you have to report to the IRS if you move for work with an HIB.....and if someone there had a bad day..you could still be out......so they lived in fear for 3 months......:(

[Amirah]

I just cannot remember how hard it was to get over here because it was so long ago. Let's see, we had jobs lined up already. My husband and I were asked to teach at a major University and that's how we got most of our expenses paid for . When our terms were up we had to look for new jobs. We had our degrees and many years of experience already in our native countries, but we had to attend school all over again in the US because our degrees weren't accepted when we went out to get regular jobs (we took on lower demanding jobs because we wanted a child and we were getting older). Finding the right place to live and school for your children is not easy. Orlando is not cheap and is one of the most expensive places to live.

Mark/Lorna, what does the USA have that the UK doesn't? Just to say that the UK is the pits and you want something new has to be backed up by some valid reasons. The USA, at this point in time, is the pits.

[MARKANDLORNA]

hi amirah

what the states has what the uk doesn't is a better quality of life for one.

We are not stupid & have looked into this a lot already, all we are asking on here is for help from people who have done it..

The uk is the pits it's cold it's very expensive (more so than the states)if you live in london or surrounding areas.

Now we know you have to work longer hours etc etc, but in all things in life you only get out what you put in...

The one big thing is, that this country looks after people from other countries that come here & bluge off our state, better than they look after there own who have worked & payed taxes all there life....

Now we know how hard it is to get into the states, if only it was that hard to get into this country.....

This country is quickly losing it's identity, even christmas here isn't the same anymore..

We were in new york in december & we were both shocked how many people are in the sprirt looking forward to the holidays, it's just not like that here anymore..

Now i know some people are still crazy about christmas but it isn't as bigger deal here as it was..

There are even some towns over here now that won't put decorations up in there high streets because of it upseting certain cultures that live here.

Now i'm sorry but i think if that was even tried in the states it just wouldn't happen because the americans are just to passionate about there country..

We want to get away from all that & live in a country that's proud to be who it is, why is that such a problem??

We are only asking for a chance

Mark & lorna

[Amirah]

I didn't say moving to the USA was a problem. I suggested to a single mom from the UK to make her dreams of moving to the USA a reality. The responses I got for my opinion on what she should do was not pleasant, LOL ( http://www.orlando-guide.info/forums/topic.asp?TOPIC_ID=7783 ). Now that I'm over here in the USA, I don't want to leave but in the first few years I did want to go back home because it seemed too great of a hardship.

You are so very right, we Americans are very proud of our country and we love ANY holiday especially if we can get a day off from work LOL. You'll never hear an American citizen say, "I want to move to another country," well except if you're Johnny Depp or Gwenyth Paltrow LOL.

You have to make your own Christmas happy, no one can do that for you. A country shouldn't be responsible for your happiness, you make it happen.

Your comment about the UK catering to foreigners is what I hear from born Americans over here in the USA. They are not particularly fond of the USA providing subsidies for foreign business owners, visas or anything for that matter because they say that foreigners get all of the business loans and take up all the jobs while unemployed Americans suffer.

It is very expensive to live over here as well depending on where you live. You have to do the salary to living expenses ratio. To live comfortably over here both wife and husband should be making between $75k to $85k per year MINIMUM. Like I said to the single mom, do your reasearch and make your dream come alive.

Also about your comment: "Now we know you have to work longer hours etc etc, but in all things in life you only get out what you put in..." I couldn't agree with you more on this because I believe in that too. Nobody said you were stupid :), but THE GRASS ALWAYS LOOKS GREENER ON THE OTHER SIDE.

Here is something to think about: I know that the some truths are hard to absorb, but it is truth. To tell you only the nice things wouldn't be fair to you. I'm sure Chrizzy would agree with me on this one. Here on the OV, let the truth be told.

[MARKANDLORNA]

Hi

We know the grass isn't greener & also that christmas is what you make it & believe me we love it....

I was just trying to make a point on how poor it is becoming over with things like that.

But the one thing that is great is this forum, it is so helpful, we are so pleased we found..

We have spoke to a company & they have told us, if one of us gets a job they will get us over there (For a fee)...

So all we have to do is find a job..

I'm still applying for radio jobs so fingers crossed, but any other help anyone can give us would be fantastic..

Thanks guys for a truly wonderful site

mark & lorna

[Carla]

Mark and Lorna you are both young enough to retrain so that you become qualified in a profession that the USA wants. They have more than enough DJs, bar tenders and admin workers etc. who are already unemployed. Just like the UK, they need qualified people who have extensive training already. Why not see about becoming nurses (both of you) or teachers (not quite so easy but still in demand). That would be a much easier route into the country for you both, as I think Julie has mentioned, and you are much more likely to find a sponsor. You'll find that even if you get offered a job in what you are currently doing, it is very unlikely that you would still be allowed a Visa as you would be taking a job that an American could do.

Be wary of handing over money for a fee for someone to get you a Visa. Check the company out well.

[MARKANDLORNA]

thanks carla

we will check them out
thoughly before we do anything.

It just seems at the minute like we are banging our heads against a very hard brick wall[msnsad]

thanks for the help though

mark & lorna

[Carla]

You just have to remove the brick wall!! As has already been mentioned there are really only two ways that you can do this, one is to have a large sum of money and buy a business and employ Americans, and the other is to get yourselves qualified in a profession.

Both my husband and myself were mature students. We had a career change in our late 20s and both obtained degrees in Education and became qualified teachers for the 11-18 age group. It only took 3 years and it can easily take that long to find a business and get an E2 visa, and even with having to pay for student loans, this is a much cheaper option than buying your way into America. I think that you can qualify in Nursing in 3 years too (don't know anything about this profession though). Doing something like this would make you a valuable commodity in a lot of countries, not just the UK and USA. You'd be opening up most of the world. Then you really would have choices!!!!
:D:D:D

[Amirah]

Nurses are in big demand here.

[esprit]

OK throwing my oar into the foray!!
We thought just as you do, Mark and Lorna, and that is why we came here. But it IS expensive to live here too. My car insurance is $2000 a year for something ordinary and well I wont mention health insurance. As for foreigners bludging in the UK, yes I agree but here hispanics come here illegally and get a three year amnesty to work, and Cubans arrive floating on a tyre and get welcomed and a green card. We come here legally on a visa and pour money into the US economy and they do menial tasks. We end up employing people of this sort who are all on green cards and we will never get one, always tied to our business, never able to do a proper job or retire. But I suppose they do work here, not bludge ( there isnt the option!!!!).
Patriotism and a sense of belonging, yes, sure that exists and we look at it and admire it, but we are never really part of that because we are not Americans, not even permanent residents ( green card holders) we are NON RESIDENT ALIENS and that means we dont live here, we are just long term visitors with no real rights, no credit rating, no history in the US. They all belong but we dont, or not yet anyway, perhaps it will come over the years, I hope so anyway. But the first year is tough, real tough and you feel like you are banging your head against a brick wall.

Yes that is good advice, re-train for something which is needed here, come in on an employment visa ( HiB) which can lead to a green card. But dont try and come in doing something like bar work, you just cant do it, it will never get you a proper visa or the proper right to live here. Green card is eveything, the God, without it any immigration officer can deny you admission, you are always at risk.
There is a 15.6% shortage of nurses in Florida and nurses go straight to green card, My son is intending to do a two year nusring degree when he leaves school and is busy applying for places now. You have to structure your life here around what you CAN do and he has realised that this is the logical solution.

[steph_goodrum]

"It just seems at the minute like we are banging our heads against a very hard brick wall"

Mark and Lorna the main reason for that is that as has been suggested the Americans are rightly selective about who they will allow to enter and stay and at the end of the day the criteria is not what America can do for YOU but what you can do for THEM.
Their argument could well be if you don't like what is happening in your own country then why should they want to encourage more foreigners to their shores and possibly be faced with the same situation 10 years down the line. Maybe we should all be making more of an effort to get the things we don't like about the UK changed (of course we can't do much about the weather).
We too (think at least) we would like to live in Florida but it isn't really a viable option for us at the moment through the routes available so we'll just have to make the most of our holidays.

[Bamboo Benny]

Agree with a lot of that. Could you imagine flying the Union Jack outside your house, you'd be accused of being in the National Front !!

I like the emphasis on family and life is more relaxing in Florida. As soon as you touch back down in UK the hussle and bussle hits you smack in the chops. Granted, you are on holiday but for the standard and price of some of the houses on offer its gotta be better than my two bed terrace that I can hardly swing a cat in ! We looked around some houses last month in Kissimmee and couldnt believe what you get for your money...and with a pool. Amazing.

My thoughts would be to find a company who have offices in US the try to make the move. good luck.

[Bamboo Benny]

sorry . My thread above related to end of page one.

[chrizzy100]

quote:Originally posted by MARKANDLORNA

hi amirah

what the states has what the uk doesn't is a better quality of life for one.

We are not stupid & have looked into this a lot already, all we are asking on here is for help from people who have done it..

The uk is the pits it's cold it's very expensive (more so than the states)if you live in london or surrounding areas.

Now we know you have to work longer hours etc etc, but in all things in life you only get out what you put in...

The one big thing is, that this country looks after people from other countries that come here & bluge off our state, better than they look after there own who have worked & payed taxes all there life....

Now we know how hard it is to get into the states, if only it was that hard to get into this country.....

This country is quickly losing it's identity, even christmas here isn't the same anymore..

We were in new york in december & we were both shocked how many people are in the sprirt looking forward to the holidays, it's just not like that here anymore..

Now i know some people are still crazy about christmas but it isn't as bigger deal here as it was..

There are even some towns over here now that won't put decorations up in there high streets because of it upseting certain cultures that live here.

Now i'm sorry but i think if that was even tried in the states it just wouldn't happen because the americans are just to passionate about there country..

We want to get away from all that & live in a country that's proud to be who it is, why is that such a problem??

We are only asking for a chance

Mark & lorna




Hi......
I have to bring up a few point....

<The uk is the pits it's cold it's very expensive>
Its very expensive in the US.....I have to put away 4 times more for heating and cooling....light and cooking...then I did in England.....
My first months winter gas bill would of been the cost of the whole year in England......you may not have trouble in FL with heating bills....but then cooling bills take over......

<The one big thing is, that this country looks after people from other countries that come here & bluge off our state, better than they look after there own who have worked & payed taxes all there life....>

And that happens even more here.....people pour over from Mexico every day in their thousands.........leaving human waste and rubbish
everywhere...bringing crime to areas that were free of it before .....they get handouts after breaking the law to get here...free healthcare and housing....they cost the US tax payer an arm and a leg....

<There are even some towns over here now that won't put decorations up in there high streets because of it upseting certain cultures that live here.>

Its the same here....no baby jesus and crib outside churches.....kids can't do Christmas plays......the list goes on....its very PC over here...we can't upset anyone......

[MARKANDLORNA]

Hi

We have become a bit dis-hearted by all the negitives that people are telling us..

We know that is going to be a very very big mountain to climb, but we are sure we can make it..

What kind of business could you run that would get you over there??

mark & lorna

[Amirah]

As for Mexican, Hatians, Cubans, etc. coming over here illegally, it is a way of life here now. In those countries, these people are badly opressed in this day in age so the US accepts them using certain criteria for certain situations in regard to the illegal alien. They actually have a better reason of wanting to leave there country and live over here than you do Mark.

I don't know where you live Chrizzy but over here in NY and NJ there are decorations for every holiday put up in the cities. When Xmas and Hannukah comes around they put up Xmas trees and dredals (don't know if I spelled it right), snow men and manorahs. Kwanzaa is even acknowledged, the Chinese New Year, St. Pat's Day, Ramadan, etc.

This country was built on the thought that people from other countries can come here to live free, to practice their own religions and to speak freely. A melting pot. All of our ancestors were immigrants, when this land was discovered there was the American Indian.

[chrizzy100]

quote:Originally posted by Amirah

As for Mexican, Hatians, Cubans, etc. coming over here illegally, it is a way of life here now. In those countries, these people are badly opressed in this day in age so the US accepts them using certain criteria for certain situations in regard to the illegal alien. They actually have a better reason of wanting to leave there country and live over here than you do Mark.

I don't know where you live Chrizzy but over here in NY and NJ there are decorations for every holiday put up in the cities. When Xmas and Hannukah comes around they put up Xmas trees and dredals (don't know if I spelled it right), snow men and manorahs. Kwanzaa is even acknowledged, the Chinese New Year, St. Pat's Day, Ramadan, etc.

This country was built on the thought that people from other countries can come here to live free, to practice their own religions and to speak freely. A melting pot. All of our ancestors were immigrants, when this land was discovered there was the American Indian.


You just have to see the news to read about the stuffing being knocked out of Christmas all over the USA.....decorations go up sure......but the true meaning of Christmas being a Christian Holiday in this country is fast going down the tubes.......nothing done illegal should get rewarded.....not matter what it is....if you entre the USA illegally you should be sent home.....I can see a bloodbath coming down in AZ at sometime....and I can see the time coming when America may have to close its doors to everyone.....

[floridadreamvilla.co.uk]

Can I just add a bit of calm to this thread as I don't think we'd really like to see this kind of subject about immigrants on here.

Let's get back to the subject of Florida [msnsmile]

[Carla]

Mark and Lorna, the advice here is just advice. Please don't interpret it as being negative. I know that you really wanted us to say "yes, go ahead, you'll get a job in a bar working for a Brit" but we can't and we won't tell you what we know is not true. You have to realise that America doesn't need what you currently have to offer it workwise, which is exactly the same for the vast majority of people who would like to emigrate. America wants skilled, professional, highly trained people to take the jobs that they don't have enough Americans for.

Buying a business is a harder and much more risky option and carries with it a less secure Visa (see what Esprit wrote) than the H1B, professional worker Visa. Take a look at the threads which talk about businesses that you could buy, and these threads also tell you the kind of money involved, not just to buy the business, but to run it as well.

If you really want to emigrate, then you will do the hard work involved to get there. You have age on your side, which is something that a lot of us don't have. You won't get to the USA immediately, but you will be able to emigrate if you make sure that you have the skills etc. that they need.

[chrizzy100]

quote:Originally posted by Amirah

As for Mexican, Hatians, Cubans, etc. coming over here illegally, it is a way of life here now. In those countries, these people are badly opressed in this day in age so the US accepts them using certain criteria for certain situations in regard to the illegal alien. They actually have a better reason of wanting to leave there country and live over here than you do Mark.

I don't know where you live Chrizzy but over here in NY and NJ there are decorations for every holiday put up in the cities. When Xmas and Hannukah comes around they put up Xmas trees and dredals (don't know if I spelled it right), snow men and manorahs. Kwanzaa is even acknowledged, the Chinese New Year, St. Pat's Day, Ramadan, etc.

This country was built on the thought that people from other countries can come here to live free, to practice their own religions and to speak freely. A melting pot. All of our ancestors were immigrants, when this land was discovered there was the American Indian.


Anyway...... illegal immigrants....and religion....subjects best talked about somewhere else I think......:D:D
But just quick..... if their moving to the States to get away from the things they say they are....its really no better over here....the USA is bigger....so you can hide away from things happening in other States easier.....but the problems you're leaving behind are still going to be here waiting.....:(:(

[chrizzy100]

quote:Originally posted by floridadreamvilla.co.uk

Can I just add a bit of calm to this thread as I don't think we'd really like to see this kind of subject about immigrants on here.

Let's get back to the subject of Florida [msnsmile]


Oh no.......Johns sending us to see the headmaster.....[msncry][msncry][msncry]
But I agree...*chrizzy walks to the heads office with head hung low*.....[msnembarrased][msnembarrased]

[Amirah]

I agree with Chrizzy. Mark don't jump in head first...

[esprit]

Brilliant answer Carla. Ask someone who rushed headfirst in because she wanted it so much. If you ask for advice on here, you will get it and we tell the truth and dont pull any punches.
You can run any business really provided you have at least one US employee and it will make you about $60,000 in income a year. This includes franchises which are possibly a better option than some of the businesses you see being advertised for sale in Florida, some of which anrnt quite what they seem. A business will get you here but the holy grail of the green card is a long way off and perhaps only achieved through your children...
PS went to a health care centre for an injection today. Simple hepatitis jab costs $179.......

[MARKANDLORNA]

hi

not bad news i have been put in the final 10 for a radio job

Hooray!!!!!!!!!:D

So fingers crossed guys, who knows..

It is with a good size radio company so we will see


mark & lorna

[Carla]

That's great. Which Radio company? Let us know how you get on.
:D:D

[Nicjmc]

Congratulations,I always take the position that if it`s meant to be....but being positive as you are is always a major plus and employers will pick up on that.Good Luck.

[MARKANDLORNA]

thanks nicjmc

i hope it works out too.

on a bit of a different topic, can someone tell me what is going on at cool 100.

i've heard it closed down on friday??

is this true because it will be a great loss to orlando radio.. what a fab station

[Carla]

Oh no. The only station that I EVER listen to in Florida!!! It can't happen.

This is what it says on their website:

THEY'RE NOT
TELLING US
ANYTHING EITHER!

[}:)][}:)][}:)][}:)][}:)]

[chrizzy100]

quote:Originally posted by MARKANDLORNA

thanks nicjmc

i hope it works out too.

on a bit of a different topic, can someone tell me what is going on at cool 100.

i've heard it closed down on friday??

is this true because it will be a great loss to orlando radio.. what a fab station


I hope the job works out for you.......I'll send my number when I find it....no-one here can remember it....I'll have to wait until I get a bill.......lol

[MARKANDLORNA]

hi chrizzy

that would be great

we have changed the date of a trip now though

we are coming over on 22nd march till thursday 8th april..

can somebody what is going out on cool 100 today??

because ive been told it has been taken off the air

[MARKANDLORNA]

BAD NEWS!!!!

I didn't get the job i was shortlisted for[msnsad][msnsad][msnsad].....

So it's back to the drawing board (NEVER MIND) each time i get knocked down the stronger i become (ha ha)...

We only have about 3 weeks to go & we will be over in orlando & we can't wait, i have my best job hunting shoes already packed.....

I have to say though we owe everyone a big thank you for all there help over the last couple of weeks, this site is truly fantastic...

Mark & Lorna

[Carla]

Sory to hear that Mark. Keep trying.
:D:D

[Amirah]

Don't worry, you'll get a job soon enough! I'm wishing you more luck.

[esprit]

Keep trucking looking for that job. My husband is a computer programmer and I only wish we had persevered down that route rather than buying a business as this is much harder.

[MARKANDLORNA]

hi

thanks guys for all the support...

On the subject of a business, does anybody know if orlando has an english style fish & chip shop??

I know of a guy who is now based in new york but originally he came from preston which is about 20 mins drive from where we live & he has opened a fish & chip shop up & it's booming...

I've looked on the net but i can't seem to find one in orlando, that's why i'm asking

We are just trying different options at the moment.

Thanks
Mark & lorna

[fiona]

harry ramsdens??

[floridadreamvilla.co.uk]

Can't say as I'd be looking for a chippy when in Floirda - when in Rome as they say....

[SunLover]

There is the Harry Ramsdens chippy in the British pavilion at Epcot, and on our trip in January we noticed Dennys and a few other restaurants on the 192 were now doing "Fish & Chips", including "all you can eat".

Hope this helps :)

[esprit]

Harry Ramsbottoms on 192. Dear though, it is around $10 for fish, chips and peas. We went in and went out again when we saw the price and went and had a steak for the same price. IHOP do all you can eat fish and chips for $5.99 every Friday. There are 13,000 Europeans in Osceola county, mainly Brits and Irish ( living here that is) and wheras most holidaymakers would prefer to try American food, I would die for a good curry and chips or steak pudding and chips at a reasonable price so there may be a market there amongst the ex pats.

[MARKANDLORNA]

thanks for that esprit

that might be a good aveune for us to look at then

i wonder how many americans we would have to employ?

so if we managed to do that, would we get accepted for a green card??


mark & lorna

[florida4sun]

2 employes minium. Possibly get a green card with a million dolar investment. I have always wanted my own restraunt but it aint cheap to open one. I would have thought you need a minium of arund $200k to $300k to do so. I bet the workers comp is very expensive in a kitchen environment:(
What ever you look at doing. Add all your forecasted figures and double it. This will gigve a more true picture of the amount of capital you will need.
There are various pubs along the 192 that offer fish and chips. Ranging between $10 and $13 a plate.


quote:Originally posted by MARKANDLORNA

thanks for that esprit

that might be a good aveune for us to look at then

i wonder how many americans we would have to employ?

so if we managed to do that, would we get accepted for a green card??


mark & lorna

[esprit]

That ex Black Angus next to the Holiday Inn at the eastern end of 192 near the Bank of America looks to be still up for lease, Martin!!!
I think you would do better with takeaway, a proper fish and chip shop than a sit down meal. True you can buy fish and chips as a sit down meal in the pubs, but if I am going to spend $13 for a meal, I can buy a nice sit down meal anywhere, even in Celebration. You can easily buy a nice steak.

[MARKANDLORNA]

hi

thats all we want to do is take away

good old fashioned english fish & chips, mushy peas
steak pudding etc etc

so we are looking into that aveune now

[esprit]

You have one customer already. My mouth is watering!! Cornish pasty as well please!!

[MARKANDLORNA]

oh yeah gotta have cornish pasties & battered sausages
& gravy, pickled eggs meat & potato pies

but the best bit fish & chips in newspaper like it used to be

just trying to find out how much the set up will cost.

we are wondering if we pulled it off, would we quailify for a green card then & would our chances of getting be good??

[florida4sun]

You could probably set it for under a $100k. You would need to take all the relevenat health and safety course and obtain qulifications. Your problem will be getting a good location for the right money. I would think even a small palce in a reasonable location will cost around $3k - $4k per month (you would need to be on a throughfare of passing trade). We pay $1k a month for a small office away from the 192.
Green card - nope. You would be doing it on an E visa.





quote:Originally posted by MARKANDLORNA

oh yeah gotta have cornish pasties & battered sausages
& gravy, pickled eggs meat & potato pies

but the best bit fish & chips in newspaper like it used to be

just trying to find out how much the set up will cost.

we are wondering if we pulled it off, would we quailify for a green card then & would our chances of getting be good??

[esprit]

I think you are young? Your kids will get the green card for you eventually. Highway 27 is booming. The amount of home building is huge. They are also building a WalMart/Lowes at the junction of 192 and 27 and that will attract even more people. You could do worse than look there, cheaper than somewhere on 192.

[Tina Blackwell]

hi mark and lorna we are looking to relocate to florida too and are quickly realising its not as easy as we thought i agree with you we are starting to hate the uk now ,loads of reasons you have allready mentioned plus the fact the english goverment through one of its agencys is trying to compulsary purchase our 4 acres of land to develop a business park but they dont want to pay us the development value what a surprise!! we haved owned the propery for 43 years free hold and our grandparents were compulsary purchased before that so its twice this wonderfull country are robbing us of whats ours, the fact is the more you have over here the less you own because they will find a way to take it off of you so you dont benifit from your lands potential but they do. site should be worth millions in development value to our family but they dont want you to have that over here as it keeps them safe in the them and us scenario that they try to maintain thankfully we have decent people working for us that are sure we will come off ok but we will never gain like they will from whats ours plus our business is set up there and we need the ground as we do garden maintenance and tree surgery so we will have to find somewhere big enough to start again but there is nowhere in our area suitable for relocation as you say we have paid over inflated taxes to this goverment all our lives and now they try to rape us of whats ours the only good thing to come out of it is we will probally get enough to buy a decent business in the u.s and start again over there for all the reasons you want to go as we have two young girls to think of ,this country is finished they dont look after there own and they dont want you to have anything and as hard as you work to earn it they work twice as hard to take it off you when we finally settle on an offer for our land i want to leave and never invest a single penny in this sinking ship that used to be called "great britain".

[esprit]

Tina, much as I agree with a lot of what you say, you also get bitter here when you see the immigrants arriving from places like Haiti and Cuba and getting regaled with green cards and the illegal Hispanics made legal and given work permits when we have had to buy our way in and will probably never get a green card. There are cons about living in the US, the rose tinted specs do come off. You arrive with no history and no credit rating which makes it hard to get anything, credit cards, mortgages, even car insurance. Healthcare costs are horrendous. The bureaucracy here is like banging your head against a brick wall. I do agree about a better life for kids. My son has taken to it like a duck to water and loves it here. There is none of that teenage drunkenness that there is in the UK ( there really isnt). But be aware that your kids on E2 can be sent home at 18 unless they go on to Uui and get a graduate job. And that you will have to pay international students fees here for your daugters college education even though you live here. You are and will always be a non resident alien and being an alien when you feel like a Floridian does get on your nerves somewhat. Ask away........

[John Boy]

Hi Markandlorna

After reading all the messages the people on here seem to be very informed
You must remember since 9/11 everthing has changed the rules are changing like the wind so much so that even the legal system is having trouble keeping up with it.

Someone commented about getting out of the wrong side of bed being a reason for an official refusing something, this is so true the law is so open to interpretation that a customs officer can refuse you addmission send you back on the next plane and tell you to take it up with the US embassy in london.

With so little money and lack of qualifications you are looking at a mountain to climb.

But as you are going to Florida in May, make contact with a very good Attorney
no matter how well intentioned we all are with the events of the past few years get the right help
My Attorney is
Hector Feliciano
Bogin Munns & Munns
407 578 1334
e-mail hfeliciano@boginmunns.com
This guy is very swithed on and will listen to your situation and advise you if your plans are possible and if its not he will say so

Good Luck

John Boy

[esprit]

For someone living inn Spain, you seem to know a lot about US immigration, John Boy. Are you thinking or moving here from Spain or are you one of those ( there seem to be increasing numbers) who has jacked Florida in and moved somewhere where we have a right to live visaless?? Just being nosey!:):):)

[steph_goodrum]

"but the best bit fish & chips in newspaper like it used to be"

Think you'll find you can't even do that any more Mark, (at least you can't in UK) something to do with either the newsprint being different to what it used to be or that it was found that it was never good for you in the first place. Few germs never hurt anybody I say but you know what pc is these days.


:D:D

[MARKANDLORNA]

i know you cant use real newspaper

but there is paper you can buy now that has newspaper print on it, so it looks like the real thing.

we are just trying to find out how many u.s people we would have to employ.

because it would just be a take away

thanks guys for all the advice

mark & lorna

[imported_n/a]

Hi Mark and Lorna

We feel the same way as you in that this country has well and truly gone to the dogs. I know every country has it own problems, and the USA is no exception, but the attitude towards life and success is so very different there that we feel that it does make for a better life.

We have been looking at buying a business, but from the content of this thread I understand that professionals can get jobs. Is this the case?? If so has anyone got any tips on where is the best place to look and how to go about it.

We are both degree qualified - I am a computer programmer and my husband is a lecturer in IT (he has got 2 degrees).

Any ideas anyone??

Thanks
Caroline

[chrizzy100]

quote:Originally posted by casi

Hi Mark and Lorna

We feel the same way as you in that this country has well and truly gone to the dogs. I know every country has it own problems, and the USA is no exception, but the attitude towards life and success is so very different there that we feel that it does make for a better life.

We have been looking at buying a business, but from the content of this thread I understand that professionals can get jobs. Is this the case?? If so has anyone got any tips on where is the best place to look and how to go about it.

We are both degree qualified - I am a computer programmer and my husband is a programmer in IT (he has got 2 degrees).

Any ideas anyone??

Thanks
Caroline


IT has taken a bash over the last few years in the States.....thousands of IT people are out of work......Lucent laid off around 150 thousand workers in a matter of months .....a lot of IT people have moved on to other jobs because the job market is so slow.....people are finding it hard to get a company to see them if they come from a different State..let alone country.....after saying that....it is picking up......my husband has been headhunted a few times in the past few months....he's a Telcoms Test Eng......hes very rare in the US because most go to programming.....the best way to get a job is word of mouth......and having the money to move yourselves over is a big plus......my husband had his CV online years ago and had a few American companies interested.....but now that could get lost in the thousands of CVs online......its just a case of luck....or of knowing people in your field of work.......and you'd have to be open to working anywhere in the States not just FL.......you could always move there once you get greencards if thats where you want to end up......
The one thing I wish someone had told me..was that if you lose your job on an H1B.....you have only 10 days to leave the country......they will sometimes give you 3 months....but a lot of people from here were gone in the 10 days.....you really need to get that greencard as soon as you can.....

Just put you CVs out there..phone....talk to people over here if you can find them in you line of work.....all H1B are gone till Oct this year....so people must be getting jobs over here.....:)

[chrizzy100]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by MARKANDLORNA
i know you cant use real newspaper

but there is paper you can buy now that has newspaper print on it, so it looks like the real thing.

we are just trying to find out how many u.s people we would have to employ.

because it would just be a take away

thanks guys for all the advice

mark & lorna
[/quote]

I'll not be in Orlando your new dates....maybe next time........:D:D

[imported_n/a]

Thanks Chrizzy

All useful stuff and I will get our CV's out there asap. I don't really mind where we work just as long as we have a stab at getting the green cards. Maybe Alaska is just a bit too cold!!

In your post you say that all H1B visas have gone until October - how did you find that out? Do the embassy give that kind of info out to the general public.

Do you need to employ anyone to help get the H1B visa or does the company do it all for you.

Also my mother says that you don't get if you dont ask - SO - does your husband know of any openings in his firm??

Thanks
Caroline

[chrizzy100]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by casi
Thanks Chrizzy

All useful stuff and I will get our CV's out there asap. I don't really mind where we work just as long as we have a stab at getting the green cards. Maybe Alaska is just a bit too cold!!

In your post you say that all H1B visas have gone until October - how did you find that out? Do the embassy give that kind of info out to the general public.

Do you need to employ anyone to help get the H1B visa or does the company do it all for you.

Also my mother says that you don't get if you dont ask - SO - does your husband know of any openings in his firm??

Thanks
Caroline
[/quote]

It was on the news.....fox I think....but if you found a company now it could take till Oct to sort everything out....they move very slow to start off with....
The company should do that all for you....if you're luck they will pay everything.....your moving costs....plane tickets......the costs in selling your UK home...and the costs of buying your US one.....we also had $2,000 for carpets and things like that.....they also paid for our moterbike to come over.....
I'm not sure what you do.....my husband company is in Telcoms.....Lucent took them over.. ran them into the ground.....but they did a buy back and are doing well......
Its on Cape Cod Mass......a great place......but very costly.....they will be taking on people again at some time....I've not idea when.....I'll look for a link and send it to you......

[esprit]

Its hard to get jobs in computing, I have to say. They are not short of programmers unless you are specialised. There are recruitment agencies that do the US. Have a search around.

[imported_n/a]

I am very specialised. High end web applications for the law. I work for the top corporate law firm in Europe. We have got offices in all the usual European haunts and even in Khattar Wong (China) and Dubai - unfortunately they don't yet have offices in the USA, even though they do have a lot of connections and intentions to expand into the US market.

I do have the edge with my specialisation as I have worked on some of their cutting edge million pound projects and my skills are very highly sought after.

Plus I have my secret weapon - my husband 'the lecturer' - teaching is one of those professions that is in demand worldwide.

You did say that your husband was a programmer - has he had any luck in breaking into the US market or are you tied in with your caretaking company once you have gone over on the E2?

[carolyne]

Dear Mark and Lorna

Just read your post from 18th Feb. Well said. Feel exactly the same bout our country. We live in Scotland and have the same situ with immigrants in our area. Absolutely shocking that we are working our socks off and do everything properly and above board. What for???

We decided last November we wanted to move to Florida and have done loads and loads of research into it. We have had a lot of help from the florida experts who have quite rightly told us it isnt easy. We have a LOT of money put by and it still aint enough so are trying to buy and sell houses here to make even more to buy the right business in Florida. It may take us a while but we are not giving up hope to do it.

Scotland is a real lovely country but when your nose is rubbed in the cost of the parliament building you really have to wonder about who is running the place.

Looking forward to our florida holiday in April. Lovely warm weather for 2 weeks. Beautiful!

Good Luck

C

[fllion]

I know 2 people who are all ready looking at places to do fish & chips on the 27, the trouble is getting the cod!!!!

[esprit]

Haddock will do if necessary, Paul!!

[ian cater]

hi my name is michelle i 100% agree with you mark and lorna about this country being the pits.i have salon over here work 10 hours aday i love my job and and the whole buzz of hairdressing.but the whole place is getting over run with refugees it is even more dishearting when they try to get a hair cut with a food voucher which this goverment has supplied them.florida may have its problems but at least the people have a smile on there face and are polite.that is why myself husband and 7 year old son are aiming to move next august [msnmad]

[florida4sun]

Mmmm America and FLorida in particular have exactly the same problems that UK has. You just dont see it when your on holiday. It is on such a grand scale that the president is issuing a visa for illegal immigrants.

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by ian cater
hi my name is michelle i 100% agree with you mark and lorna about this country being the pits.i have salon over here work 10 hours aday i love my job and and the whole buzz of hairdressing.but the whole place is getting over run with refugees it is even more dishearting when they try to get a hair cut with a food voucher which this goverment has supplied them.florida may have its problems but at least the people have a smile on there face and are polite.that is why myself husband and 7 year old son are aiming to move next august [msnmad]
[/quote]

[floridadreamvilla.co.uk]

Looks like I'm in the minority then - I love living in the UK and would not want to move to the USA at all. Sure, there are problems in the UK, but there are also problems in the US too. Nowhere is perfect.

[brizzle]

Phew, thank god someone else thinks that. I love visiting other countries and really enjoy Florida but I always look forward to going home at the end of it.
I'm not so rose tinted to see we don't have any problems but we also have a lot more plus points (IMHO) in this country, hence why loads of 'immigrants' want to come here!!!

Brizzle

[chrizzy100]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by floridadreamvilla.co.uk
Looks like I'm in the minority then - I love living in the UK and would not want to move to the USA at all. Sure, there are problems in the UK, but there are also problems in the US too. Nowhere is perfect.
[/quote]

There are very few places in the States I'd want to live......The Cape is very much like England without the crime...rubbish....or ..... illegal immigrants.....

I love FL.....it has a few problems......but I still love the place......my next move will be Montana I think....I love it there.......

[bond]

I have really overdosed on American, Italian, Chinese and Indian food and anything else I could find. When I remembered a post here about Harry Ramsbottoms on 192 at Fort Liberty. I had steak & kidney pie with chips and mushy peas and gravy while my wife had cod and chips with mushy peas and curry sauce. I have to say I thought it was the best food I have eaten since I got here. It said it was expensive on the other post and I suppose it was compared to what you would probably pay at home. But we are 4000 miles from home and anyone who can produce food like that is more than welcome to my $30. It was $30 including cokes and 15% tip. But to be honest I thought it was a bargain. Is it possible to have dinner anywhere here for just $30. I dont think I have went into any restaurant here and spent so little and been so satisified. Which brings me back to another post here...English Fast Food Takeaway...will somebody please open one...judging by the amount of tourists at Harry Ramsbottoms eating English fast food, a take away is badly needed.

[esprit]

Agree totally Martin. Most people only see happy smiling waiters after a tip being super polite and "have a nice day" when they are here on holiday. There are the same problems here as anywhere else. Immigrants as well though if you move here you will be one too and treated as such in some quarters, except you will not be the sort of immigrant who will eventually get an amnesty and the green card. Say no more.

[MARKANDLORNA]

HI GUYS

JUST A QUICKIE, WE ARE STILL JOB HUNTING, BUT THE GOOD NEWS IS WE HAVE ONLY TILL SUNDAY TILL WE COME OVER TO ORLANDO FOR NEARLY 3 WEEKS:D:D:D:D:D:D:D


AND WE CANT WAIT TO GET THERE, CV'S IN HAND ( HA HA)

MARK & LORNA & LITTLE MAISIE

[Ana]

Mark and Lorna
Good luck in Orlando next week! We're all looking forward to seeing how it turns out for you!

[MARKANDLORNA]

Hi guys

long time no post..

Well we are still stuck in the uk & hating it, but there could be light at the end of this very long tunnel.

Looks like i may have the job we have been waiting for (woo hoo).

It's not in florida , but in myrtle beach in s.c, but hey as long as we get over we don't mind one bit.

We are just waiting to hear back, but it's looking good at the minute, so we are not holding our breath, but we do have everything we can cross, crossed (ha ha)

[Nostromo]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by MARKANDLORNA
Hi guys

long time no post..

Well we are still stuck in the uk & hating it, but there could be light at the end of this very long tunnel.

Looks like i may have the job we have been waiting for (woo hoo).

It's not in florida , but in myrtle beach in s.c, but hey as long as we get over we don't mind one bit.

We are just waiting to hear back, but it's looking good at the minute, so we are not holding our breath, but we do have everything we can cross, crossed (ha ha)
[/quote]

All the best M&K. By the way, I'm coming to Myrtle Beach in early June for a long weekend. If you tell me where you'll be working, I'll look you up for a few free cocktails. [msnwink][msnwink]

[MARKANDLORNA]

ha ha, im sure we could hook up, im hopefully going to be working on a radio station there.

So im sure we could meet while you are there

How far is it from orlando??

[Nostromo]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by MARKANDLORNA
ha ha, im sure we could hook up, im hopefully going to be working on a radio station there.

So im sure we could meet while you are there

How far is it from orlando??
[/quote]

About 475 miles (around 9 hours drive time plus stops). From Orlando, follow I-4 East till it joins I-95 North. This goes initially along the coast throgh Florida and Georgia, but veers inland as it enters South Carolina. But continue on I-95 till Florence, where you bear right into US-501 and follow signs to Myrtle Beach, about an hour further.

[MARKANDLORNA]

cool

so it's not too far then

[esprit]

Very good luck. This really is the way to go and once you get your green card, you can live anywhere.

[Nostromo]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by MARKANDLORNA
cool

so it's not too far then

[/quote]

No, but I'll not be visiting Orlando on that trip. I thought you wanted that info for yourself. I'll be driving down from the Great Smoky Mountains to Myrtle Beach.

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by floridadreamvilla.co.uk
Looks like I'm in the minority then - I love living in the UK and would not want to move to the USA at all. Sure, there are problems in the UK, but there are also problems in the US too. Nowhere is perfect.
[/quote]

Im the same John, I have been virtually everywhere and everywhere has the same problems particularly the USA!!!

[chrizzy100]

I find the problems in the USA harder to deal with when they come up.......but after living here 5 years.......I would not think about going back to the UK......you have to move here knowing all the facts....good and bad.......then you really can make a better life here.....

[MARKANDLORNA]

well that is what we are hoping

we have a young puppy that has had all her jabs, she is also chipped as well

how do we go on about that??

and can we have her straight away once we get to the other end??

[chrizzy100]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by MARKANDLORNA
well that is what we are hoping

we have a young puppy that has had all her jabs, she is also chipped as well

how do we go on about that??

and can we have her straight away once we get to the other end??
[/quote]

You don't have rabies in England so she can go with you after the flight if she does not look ill.....and she has all the right paper work......

[MARKANDLORNA]

Another question, you guys are going to be sick of me (ha ha)

My job comes with all the benefits, medical etc

Now does that cover my wife & 17 month old daughter??

Or do they have to have there own?

Or can i add them to my cover for an extra fee?

[blott]

It depends on what your employer is offering, sometimes dependants are included and sometimes not so best to get it checked out before you leave the UK.

[Nostromo]

I don't know if this is going to help you M&K, but I know of a similar situation. One of our relatives lives in Martinez near San Francisco and has a good job with a construction company. When he moved to the US with his wife and 2 minor kids many moons ago, all of them were covered by his company's health policy. But when his lawyer wife got her own job, she could no longer expect full cover from her husband's policy (whether this is cos her own employers offered her Insurance cover, I don't know). And when the kids reached 18 years of age, they were also excluded from the policy.

[MARKANDLORNA]

Ok thanks

I will ask them all about it, i just wasn't sure if they would be covered as they are my family.

Thanks guys, yet again you all have been very helpful[msnsmile2][msnsmile2]

[MARKANDLORNA]

also as well if i do have to get cover for lorna & maisie, who are the best people to use??

Just so i can see a website & get some idea of a monthly cost, that will cover everything (dental etc)

[blott]

If you have to get cover for Lorna and Maisie, then it's best to take out ex-pats insurance, the best one of which is http://www.imglobal.com You'll be pleased to hear that maisie gets covered for free until she's 9 years old.

[esprit]

My imglobal plan doesnt cover dental. We bought a dental plan from Sams club but it only pays a portion of the cost and only at specific dentists,

[chrizzy100]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Nostromo
I don't know if this is going to help you M&K, but I know of a similar situation. One of our relatives lives in Martinez near San Francisco and has a good job with a construction company. When he moved to the US with his wife and 2 minor kids many moons ago, all of them were covered by his company's health policy. But when his lawyer wife got her own job, she could no longer expect full cover from her husband's policy (whether this is cos her own employers offered her Insurance cover, I don't know). And when the kids reached 18 years of age, they were also excluded from the policy.
[/quote]

You can't really have cover from two different companies......both try to get out of paying...and can give you years of problems..the cover for most kids ends when they finish school at.....18...21..or 25....

[MARKANDLORNA]

thanks for all the info guys.

I will let you all know if i get the job, but it's looking 99% there, so everybody who reads the posts on here, all cross your fingers (ha ha)

[linda.s]

I've enjoyed reading this thread!
Any update on the job yet guys??

[flyrr100]

Maybe I'm reading this wrong but... sure you can have more than one insurance policy. We have primary and secondary. My policy is primary as my birthday is before my wife's... (go figure). Her's is secondary.. ie her's pays for the deductable.
Or am I on the wrong train here?
[zzz]




<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by chrizzy100
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Nostromo
I don't know if this is going to help you M&K, but I know of a similar situation. One of our relatives lives in Martinez near San Francisco and has a good job with a construction company. When he moved to the US with his wife and 2 minor kids many moons ago, all of them were covered by his company's health policy. But when his lawyer wife got her own job, she could no longer expect full cover from her husband's policy (whether this is cos her own employers offered her Insurance cover, I don't know). And when the kids reached 18 years of age, they were also excluded from the policy.
[/quote]

You can't really have cover from two different companies......both try to get out of paying...and can give you years of problems..the cover for most kids ends when they finish school at.....18...21..or 25....
[/quote]

[Nostromo]

I asked my aforementioned California relatives about their Insurance. They did not seem too forthcoming to discuss it, but I understood that the lady could not get the degree of cover on her husband's policy as a working lawyer as she got as a housewife without a very substantial increase in the premium, which they decided was not worth it. She still gets limited cover on her husband's policy (I don't know the details), but has her own job-linked insurance, presumably to cover the loopholes.

[E. Cosgrove]

No John you are not alone, I love the US especially Florida and the South West states and I can't wait to retire so that I can visit for longer periods of time there, but the UK is home, I am proud of my British roots and would never sever ties with the mother country! The UK has many problems but so does the US, you just don't see them the same as a holiday maker. I for one would never want to grow old in the US.<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by floridadreamvilla.co.uk
Looks like I'm in the minority then - I love living in the UK and would not want to move to the USA at all. Sure, there are problems in the UK, but there are also problems in the US too. Nowhere is perfect.
[/quote]

[chrizzy100]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by flyrr100


Maybe I'm reading this wrong but... sure you can have more than one insurance policy. We have primary and secondary. My policy is primary as my birthday is before my wife's... (go figure). Her's is secondary.. ie her's pays for the deductable.
Or am I on the wrong train here?
[zzz]




<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by chrizzy100
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Nostromo
I don't know if this is going to help you M&K, but I know of a similar situation. One of our relatives lives in Martinez near San Francisco and has a good job with a construction company. When he moved to the US with his wife and 2 minor kids many moons ago, all of them were covered by his company's health policy. But when his lawyer wife got her own job, she could no longer expect full cover from her husband's policy (whether this is cos her own employers offered her Insurance cover, I don't know). And when the kids reached 18 years of age, they were also excluded from the policy.
[/quote]

You can't really have cover from two different companies......both try to get out of paying...and can give you years of problems..the cover for most kids ends when they finish school at.....18...21..or 25....
[/quote]
[/quote]

You can have it......but like friends of mine found out.....both companies were fighting over who was going to pay when a big payout was needed.....and my friends were left with a huge bill till it was sorted out.....maybe its not the same everywhere......or with all companies......

[MARKANDLORNA]

Hi Guys

It is looking really really good about the job now, should know within the next few days.

Just a quick question, i have the job, lorna & maisie would come with me as a family, lorna would want to work as well, does she need to apply for a visa for herself??

Or does she not as we are husband & wife

[Steve and Dawn]

I have only just read this Thread, does anyone know if Mark & Lorna were successful??

Steve & Dawn

[Nostromo]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Steve and Dawn
I have only just read this Thread, does anyone know if Mark & Lorna were successful??

Steve & Dawn
[/quote]

Send a DM to them with the question and they'll see and answer it when they log-on next:)

[luckylady]

I hope they were successful bue I think they would have let us know straight away
unless they are still on cloud nine
Barbara

[Ray9]

From what has been said .. they would be using a H-1B.. as that cannor be applied for until april 05 ..and with a start date not until Oct 05 ... bit more waiting to do.....

[lisasranch]

Guys,
I read your comments with interest.
I agree completely. The UK has many attributes but for me, to many failings. The latest fiasco with the muslim schoolgirl and her 'Jilbab'!!
Add that to the Immigration policy into the UK, the Stamp duty threshold, the amount of people now 40% tax payers, Fuel costs, House prices, Student loans, European Convention for Human rights, Weakness in the face of the inevitable terror threat.Copmanies that wont fly the Union Jack on St Georges Day in case they upset minorities. Even the Brownie promise has changed!!!!
we have become a nation that is ashamed of itself.
The US has a national identity, It has pride in it's flag and (Like France) is prepared to say 'No!'(or Non!)Anybody want my house they can have it!
Apart from that we have some lovely buildings...
Soap box is now away.
USA here we come
Andy (and Lisa)

[chrizzy100]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by lisasranch
Guys,
I read your comments with interest.
I agree completely. The UK has many attributes but for me, to many failings. The latest fiasco with the muslim schoolgirl and her 'Jilbab'!!
Add that to the Immigration policy into the UK, the Stamp duty threshold, the amount of people now 40% tax payers, Fuel costs, House prices, Student loans, European Convention for Human rights, Weakness in the face of the inevitable terror threat.Copmanies that wont fly the Union Jack on St Georges Day in case they upset minorities. Even the Brownie promise has changed!!!!
we have become a nation that is ashamed of itself.
The US has a national identity, It has pride in it's flag and (Like France) is prepared to say 'No!'(or Non!)Anybody want my house they can have it!
Apart from that we have some lovely buildings...
Soap box is now away.
Andy (and Lisa)USA here we come
[/quote]

Its just the same here......well maybe you see more flags.....and pay less tax in some cases.....but there is an even stronger need in the USA not to upset minorities....high college fees....the cost of heating and cooling is out of this world.....add on top of that high healthcare bills.....you soon learn after moving that all countries have near enough the same problems......

[Nostromo]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by lisasranch
The latest fiasco with the muslim schoolgirl and her 'Jilbab'!!
[/quote]

That particular fiasco was created by the school authorities themselves. If they had shown no particular interest in the girl's dress, no one outside her own class would have taken the slightest notice. But by making an issue about it and excluding her from school, they made sure that the family went to court and the press got hold of all the gory details.

[luckylady]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by E. Cosgrove
No John you are not alone, I love the US especially Florida and the South West states and I can't wait to retire so that I can visit for longer periods of time there, but the UK is home, I am proud of my British roots and would never sever ties with the mother country! The UK has many problems but so does the US, you just don't see them the same as a holiday maker. I for one would never want to grow old in the US.<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by floridadreamvilla.co.uk
Looks like I'm in the minority then - I love living in the UK and would not want to move to the USA at all. Sure, there are problems in the UK, but there are also problems in the US too. Nowhere is perfect.
[/quote]
[/quote]

I like Liz love the States and did want to live there at one time
Although never really tried because of family commitments
Surely every country has its drawbacks,on the whole England isnt that bad
so by dividing my time between here and the States
I think I have the best of both worlds

[Nostromo]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by E. Cosgrove
I love the US especially Florida and the South West states and I can't wait to retire so that I can visit for longer periods of time there, but the UK is home, I am proud of my British roots and would never sever ties with the mother country! I for one would never want to grow old in the US [/quote]

I agree with you 100% on this Liz. The old saying "Home is where the heart is" is absolutely true. Harini & I like living and working in the UK, but would not want to grow old here. Health issues permitting, we plan to remain flexible for 6 to 8 years after retirement, but whatever happens, we want to eventually settle back in India.

[FraserLynn]

oh well,

I have just read this thread with a growing sense of dismay. The whole tone of talking about 'immigrants', taking jobs and having unecessary priviledges just amazed me. Particuarly as most of it was described by people who were hoping to be immigrants in another country themselves.

Perhaps there is some sort of different types of immigrants you must be refering too.

Uk immigrants to America are different to immigrants into the Uk..... how exactly?

I personally wish anyone with these sorts of opinions every success in relocating themselves far far away. I only hope when you arrive there, as an immigrant, you don't find all you new neighbours have the same views on immigration that you have!

Well I've got that off my chest....

[trevlad]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by FraserLynn
oh well,

I have just read this thread with a growing sense of dismay. The whole tone of talking about 'immigrants', taking jobs and having unecessary priviledges just amazed me. Particuarly as most of it was described by people who were hoping to be immigrants in another country themselves.

Perhaps there is some sort of different types of immigrants you must be refering too.

Uk immigrants to America are different to immigrants into the Uk..... how exactly?

I personally wish anyone with these sorts of opinions every success in relocating themselves far far away. I only hope when you arrive there, as an immigrant, you don't find all you new neighbours have the same views on immigration that you have!

Well I've got that off my chest....

[/quote]


points noted but,
i think what people were barping on about are, what could be referred to as- illegal immigrants or perhaps toned down as asylum seekers, not people wanting to relocate to another country.

its always going to be an emotive subject and easy to call people with opinions as racist but - your average brit patriot does seem to feel that their 'little piece of england' is being eroded each day.

i talk to hundreds of different people each week and the common term of phrase is 'them' or 'they', 'that' or 'those'.

whether it refers to they who have stolen my car or them that you'll find stealing from grannies after doing the tarmacing or gardening or even those that get 'owt for nowt'
we live in a country with freedom of speach and ideas- its what makes(made) britain great[clap][clap]

[chrizzy100]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by trevlad
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by FraserLynn
oh well,

I have just read this thread with a growing sense of dismay. The whole tone of talking about 'immigrants', taking jobs and having unecessary priviledges just amazed me. Particuarly as most of it was described by people who were hoping to be immigrants in another country themselves.

Perhaps there is some sort of different types of immigrants you must be refering too.

Uk immigrants to America are different to immigrants into the Uk..... how exactly?

I personally wish anyone with these sorts of opinions every success in relocating themselves far far away. I only hope when you arrive there, as an immigrant, you don't find all you new neighbours have the same views on immigration that you have!

Well I've got that off my chest....

[/quote]


points noted but,
i think what people were barping on about are, what could be referred to as- illegal immigrants or perhaps toned down as asylum seekers, not people wanting to relocate to another country.

its always going to be an emotive subject and easy to call people with opinions as racist but - your average brit patriot does seem to feel that their 'little piece of england' is being eroded each day.

i talk to hundreds of different people each week and the common term of phrase is 'them' or 'they', 'that' or 'those'.

whether it refers to they who have stolen my car or them that you'll find stealing from grannies after doing the tarmacing or gardening or even those that get 'owt for nowt'
we live in a country with freedom of speach and ideas- its what makes(made) britain great[clap][clap]
[/quote]

I have to agree....people are talking about illegal immigrants....not any kind of immigrant moving anywhere with the right visa to better their family and way of life......

[trevlad]

yes,its been happening for years whether its jews ,russians, west indians, asian ,pakistanis ,bangladeshis, yugo,kosavanians, iranians africans etc etc etc vikings saxons and normans[clap]. we'll get by we'll mix we'll integrate and enjoy the ethnic food . [msnwink]

one of my 'favorite' trilogy's is the godfather. i know its got a criminal twist but its about migration, bettering yourself. starting at the bottom ,grafting,making it big etc. lets live and let live .

the original point of this thread was two guys, a dog and a baby wanting to realise their dream. lets hope they make it[msncool]

[FraserLynn]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by chrizzy100
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by trevlad
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by FraserLynn
oh well,

I have just read this thread with a growing sense of dismay. The whole tone of talking about 'immigrants', taking jobs and having unecessary priviledges just amazed me. Particuarly as most of it was described by people who were hoping to be immigrants in another country themselves.

Perhaps there is some sort of different types of immigrants you must be refering too.

Uk immigrants to America are different to immigrants into the Uk..... how exactly?

I personally wish anyone with these sorts of opinions every success in relocating themselves far far away. I only hope when you arrive there, as an immigrant, you don't find all you new neighbours have the same views on immigration that you have!

Well I've got that off my chest....

[/quote]


points noted but,
i think what people were barping on about are, what could be referred to as- illegal immigrants or perhaps toned down as asylum seekers, not people wanting to relocate to another country.

its always going to be an emotive subject and easy to call people with opinions as racist but - your average brit patriot does seem to feel that their 'little piece of england' is being eroded each day.

i talk to hundreds of different people each week and the common term of phrase is 'them' or 'they', 'that' or 'those'.

whether it refers to they who have stolen my car or them that you'll find stealing from grannies after doing the tarmacing or gardening or even those that get 'owt for nowt'
we live in a country with freedom of speach and ideas- its what makes(made) britain great[clap][clap]
[/quote]

I have to agree....people are talking about illegal immigrants....not any kind of immigrant moving anywhere with the right visa to better their family and way of life......
[/quote]

I hear what you are saying, but I am still stugggling with the difference, I am sure that many 'Asylum seakers' or illegal immigrants are wanting to make a better life for them and their family.

I guess some of them may be entring illegally, but they also may well be running away from poverty, torture etc. I supspect this makes people feel a bit more deperate than not celebrating xmas hard enough or no flags hanging outside the house.

Anyway, I certainly did not wnat to call anyone a racist and apologise if that is how it was read, but sometimes I think it is important to put ourself in someone else shoes before we judge.

anyone who mugs Granny's of steal cars is bad news in my book

[Nostromo]

I feel I can opine on this subject both as a person of an Ethnic Moinority group and immigrant to the UK. Although I have been in this country for 20 years now and have a British Passport, I look upon that little red book merely as a "document of convenience" and no more. The fact remains that I am a foreigner in this country and while I try to obey the laws of the land to the best extent possible, I know that my family and I will be retiringg to India at some stage - where our roots really are.

Trevlad, you are absolutely right in thinking that there is a very strong feeling among the local Anglo-Saxon residents of "our little England" being eroded by immigrant population, including educated one's like ourselves. I understand that feeling and consider it as part of human nature and not necessarily racism - not unless the local person decided to take law into his/her own hands. Active Racism is rare these days, but there is still a strong undercurrent of Passive Racist attitudes (sometimes called the 'Us & Them' feeling) that is prevalent in almost every walk of life. We lived in a little village called Great Glen near Leicester in the 1990s for 5 years and in that time only one of the neighbours ever spoke to us despite our attempts to break the ice several times. We were the only 'coloured' family in Great Glen at the time and we later learned that the local middle class did not want the likes of us to 'spoil' their neighbourhood by moving in from Leicester, which had already been 'overrun'. That feeling is most prevalent in satellite towns near cities that have a large etnic population.

It is not much different here in Wootton Bassett. I can honestly say that I would not recognise any of our neighbours if I bumped into them on the street. But we have got used to the situation now and it does not bother us anymore.

Fraserlynn, I do not think that your comments were, or intended to be racist at all. But there IS a big difference between immigrants to the UK & the USA. UK is an old country steeped in history, including Colonial history. If you discount the present day Eastern European situation, almost all the Ethnic people in this country are related to its Colonial past. But the USA was really a conglomeration of different ethnic groups almost from day one, even though some settlers were not given 'First Citizen' status until the 1960s.

Well, I have said what I wanted to say on this subject. I hope that I have not offended anybody in the process.

[trevlad]

here here nostromo,
fraserlynn i also wasnt intimating your comments on the racist angle,

someone earlier had mentioned about flying flags- us and the union.

it is lovely to see the us flags flying outside homes in florida etc. we personally say - they're patriotic or they're crazy - but not meant nastily.
i personally admire them cos the fact of the matter is that if you whacked a flag pole in the middle of your new lawn on a new estate people at best would think your eccentric and worse if you happen to have shaved your head cos ya balding.
it was great to see the way all the flags were flying for the england football and rugby teams. i put a flag of st george up at work and got some queer looks . i was quite offended when some elses immediate supervisor made a racist angle comment. i went down his throat and told him to get his bosses boss if there was a problem and the whole country was doing it etc. in the end nothing happened - just someone trying to score points on a pc moment.

any rate we ve all vented our spleen - we all love florida - and as they said in that eighties? pop song - 'swear your allegance to the flag, whichever flag they offer'

who did sing that ?what was it called?i'm off to work!

[Nostromo]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by trevlad
- 'swear your allegance to the flag, whichever flag they offer'
[/quote]

I think one does not have to swear alligance to anything (and I hope that they don't bring in those ridiculous American style 'Citizenship ceremonies' to the UK [msnscared][msnscared]) as long as one respects and obeys the laws of the land that one is living in. To my mind, it is that simple and straightforward.

[chrizzy100]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by Nostromo
<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by trevlad
- 'swear your allegance to the flag, whichever flag they offer'
[/quote]

I think one does not have to swear alligance to anything (and I hope that they don't bring in those ridiculous American style 'Citizenship ceremonies' to the UK [msnscared][msnscared]) as long as one respects and obeys the laws of the land that one is living in. To my mind, it is that simple and straightforward.
[/quote]

I have a problem with illegal immigrants.....only because you can't entre a country by breaking its laws right off the boat....its like you have no respect for the countries laws from the start....England welcome my family from France many years ago......my grandmother from central America.....and we have been made very welcome in the USA....a lot of my close friends in the USA are not American born.....they are from India.......the Middle East......China...and also feel the same way I do..I just feel that a country needs to have a right to say who comes in and who does not........for the good of both its born Citizens and its lawful aliens....

[Robert5988]

As with so many things in life it is very easy to define the problems with GB and the USA; not so easy to devise solutions to those problems!

[Nostromo]

<blockquote id="quote" class="ffs">quote:Originally posted by chrizzy100I just feel that a country needs to have a right to say who comes in and who does not........for the good of both its born Citizens and its lawful aliens....[/quote]

I agree with you totally there. No country owes another an explanation as to why its immigration laws are such and such, and as you say, anyone using shortcuts is breaking the law from the start. So illegal immigrants have no right to be moaning about harsh treatment by the system. But treating 'lawful aliens' as second class folk is wrong in my book, even though they are scheduled to go back to their own country at the end of their tenure. I don't know the situation in the US to comment on it, but that sort of passive discrimination occurs fairly regularly in the UK.