The integration spelt certain criteria with regards to the borders and customs. The once separated parts of Europe now greet with open arms probable coalition with nations that were placed behind the Iron Curtain. European countries can now explore the possibility of travel anywhere between the Baltic Sea and The Atlantic Ocean, devoid of the inconvenience of check points, border control or documentation. No longer are citizens contained within geographical and man defined constraints and they can now tap on the freedom to migrate and travel short or long term anywhere within the European continent. The lifting of the existent land, air and maritime borders will enable this to become truly a ‘no visa’ zone and one of a kind. The elimination of the border control involves:

* abolition of border controls
* settlement of concerns over security of the citizens
* consideration of an intense crime wave
* consideration of the overall impact over the internal policies of the nations involved

Apart from the mandatory land and maritime border check, the other implication of this ‘no passport and no visa’ zone is the introduction of an updated Schengen Information System or the SIS II. The citizens of the member nations are guaranteed easy access to the SIS II database that would comprise of information on individuals wanted or missing or who face interdiction within the specified boundaries. For May 2009, the plan of action incorporates the opening up of the labor markets fully. The final step is expected to be taken in May 2011, with all the member states being able to permit their EU-25 citizens to reside in, move about and work freely in the country of their choice, within the Union. The project has already cost the EU approximately 1 billion euros or a whooping 1.4 billion dollars!

After the depression that engulfed the world post World War I and II and the Cold War, this seems quite a step towards integration rather than separation, but only if it is alert and not oblivious to the implications that could turn sour if not dealt with in time.

Picture by Jaydee!

Picture by bjaglin

Set within Jukkasjärvi, the Ice Hotel is everything you dreamed of and more. The River Thorne flowing by the gorgeous Ice Hotel simply adds to the very ‘story-book’ kind of setting. The surrounding glaciers in winter have largely influenced the architectural grandeur of nature replicated at the Ice Hotel. The uniqueness of the Ice Hotel in Sweden is that it is actually a ‘Temporary’ hotel! The Ice Hotel melts to tell another story each year, with every new chiseled out structure more grand than the last. So, in a way, being the best your money can buy, your stay at the Ice Hotel in Sweden is actually a unique affair.

Picture by Jaydee!

The art and architecture adopted within the hotel is also in sync with the view outside. The best in the hospitality is yours to keep, while staying at the Ice Hotel. The staff is known to generate the much need warmth while sitting in the cold lap of the Arctic. The entire 30,000 square feet area is well equipped to accommodate more than a hundred guests at a time. The in-house attractions include:

* The Ice Chapel
* The Ice Art Exhibition Hall
* Absolute Ice Bar
* Cinema Hall
* Ice Church
* Ice Sauna
* Multi Media Theater

The ice sculptures within the luxurious rooms and the in-house décor of the Ice Hotel are truly a tribute to the beauty of nature around.

Picture by Etolane

The Beaver nylon jump suits provided on arrival are your best source of insulation during your stay at the Ice Hotel. The heated bathrooms and cabins add to the desired comfort level. The tariff at the Ice Hotel ranges from $300.00 to $500.00 per day. The in-house dining options re again the best your money can buy and so are the spirits offered. The Ice Hotel flaunts ten Nordic cabins with two bedrooms. This comes equipped with a kitchenette and a private shower. The twenty Northern Lights Chalets have one double and one single bedroom, with a private shower.

The most appealing aspect of the Ice Hotel is the sculpture melting away by March and springing to life in December, just the opposite of what happens in the spring and winter months in other parts of the world.

To integrate into Schengen area, the newly-joined countries had to meet certain criteria as for borders and customs. Before affiliating them to Schengen system, the European Commission conducted in-depth research, checking whether their borders satisfied the current requirements. Now land borders are expected to be lifted in December 31, 2007, while air and maritime borders will be opened at the end of March, 2008, that is those who have a visa to other countries of Schengen zone, will be able to visit the new members without changing the visa.

The thorough check of terrestrial and maritime borders represent the first phase of Schengen zone enlargement. According to the experts, this is the main point to be investigated before the full integration of these states into the zone. Considering the abolition of border controls, some current Schengen members, such as Austria and Germany, express concern over security of their citizens, thinking that the expansion from the Eastern Europe will result in a more intense crime wave. At the same time, other old Schengen members, among them France, claim the integration will not have much impact on their internal policy.

Apart from land and maritime borders checking, there is another important condition on the inclusion in Schengen. Thus, the new eight members are supposed to introduce the up-to-date version of Schengen Information System – SIS II.

The project of the current Schengen zone enlargement was thoroughly elaborated by the EU which spent around 1 billion euros (1.4 billion dollars) on its development.

Picture by saschaaa

Before we start talking about the present day ball, a bit of history. It is interesting to note out that during carnivals the medium classes were allowed to wear costumes and masks and to mimic aristocracy and heads of church without fear of being accused of mockery. How about that for freedom of speech?

Time has passed and things got out of hand. Because of this, the authorities at the time decided that the custom should be forbidden, for a while anyway. Even Empress Maria Theresia (1717-1780) decreed at one point that people are not allowed to wear masks in the streets. As a direct consequence ball was moved indoors.

The annual imperial ball of Vienna is an event of such magnitude in Austria that it is broadcasted live on television all over the world. Everybody participates no matter if you are in a dazzling costume at the ball itself or watching it in the comfortably from your home. This is a great ball with both entertainment and splendid music. A combination of modern with traditional. A harmonious mixed between the design of the building and the luxurious flower arrangements and customs with the enchanting music of the famous orchestras that are privileged to play there…

The Imperial Ball takes place on December 31 in the Viennese Hofburg Palace. And the former winter residence of the Austrian Emperor becomes for the new year’s eve a gathering place for visitors and guests from all over the world.

The doors of the palace open 8 p.m on new year’s eve and guests are welcomed in the entrance hall of Hofburg Palace to the gorgeous music of the famous Hofball Orchestra. The historical changing of guards’ ceremony officially marks the beginning of what will be a night to remember.

You can spend one of the most unforgettable St Sylverster nights ever watching elegantly dressed ladies and gentlemen in black tie from all the capitals of Europe. The first thing that will catch your eyes is probably a Viennese lady dressed as Empress Sisi and a gentleman dressed in the military uniform of Emperor Franz Josef that great every guest that arrives. Your lady will receive a small gift ”¹” as a token of the evening and members of the Ball Committee, will guide you to seats and you can dance in any of the seven ballrooms between dinner courses. At midnight, the bells of St. Stephan’s Cathedral can be heard and guests are invited to welcome the New Year to the strains of the Danube Waltz.

Shortly after midnight the Viennese Operetta, featuring singers and dancers from the Vienna State Opera and the Volksopera performing scenes from Viennese operettas, takes place in the grand festival hall after which the dance floor is opened to the ball guest until the final waltz is played just before 5 a.m. announcing the end of the ball and the beginning of a new year.

To foreign visitors there is something magical and unreal in this ball it is actually living history at its best. Just over a hundred years ago every capital in Europe held such balls. Today you can live such an experience in films and plays or by spending the new year’s eve at the Vienna Imperial ball.

1. ”Originally, the present was designed to hold the Dance Card. A card where all dances of the night were listed and men reserved their dance with a particular young woman by writing their name next to the dance they desired” [back]

• In case of an arrest in very convicting situations for extradition purpose.
• To refuse border entries for a non Schengen member state resident, or alien.
• In case of missing persons
• In case of a person that should be under arrest, following a decision by a competent authority.
• Name of witnesses in connection with criminal investigations
• Persons and/or vehicles considered as a public security threats

Personal rights in accordance with the Schengen agreement

1. You have the right to access your personal data stored in the Schengen Information System.
2. You have the right to ask to correct partially inaccurate data related to your person or, in the case of unlawfully stored data, ask for it to be deleted
3. In the case of an alert issued in your name, you have the right to bring before the court, or the competent authorities, and demand to correct/delete incorrect information or obtain compensation
4. Finally you have the right to ask the Joint Supervisory Authority to check any stored data in the SIS and how it was put to use.

Data stored in the SIS

1. Names: surname/forenames and any nicknames or aliases and the first letters of second forename
2. Physical characteristics: Any special physical characteristics that could make the person easy to recognize
3. Date and place of birth
4. Sex
5. Nationality
6. Person potential to be armed and/or violent
7. Reason why the alert was issued
8. Action expected to be taken

The Schengen Information System Part I, Part II
Disclaimer: Every effort is made to provide accurate and complete information. However we cannot guarantee that there will be no errors. We make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the contents of this post, and all provided are to be used as a guideline

Another consequence of the Schengen agreement is that cross-border police cooperation was agreed upon. For example police officers in any given Schengen state may observe or pursue suspects across Schengen borders, as long as they are in the Schengen area. No longer can criminals avoid capture by running in neighboring countries.

The SIS was designed and implemented to ease this tight cooperation between Schengen member states.

What is the Schengen Information System (SIS)

The Schengen Information System or SIS is an information system that allows authorities of the member states of Schengen to access information regarding certain persons and/or property. This information is common and accessible to all member states.

It is considered to be a crucial factor in the smooth running of the area in term of security and justice. The SIS has a great contribution in the judicial, criminal matters, and police co-operation and thus strengthen the security of the Schengen area considerably.

The Schengen Joint Supervisory Authority (JSA)
The Schengen Joint Supervisory Authority or JSA has been set up in order to manage and supervise of the technical support function of the Schengen Information System (SIS). This authority is made out of two representatives from each national data protection authority of the Schengen Member States. It is an independent body with real authority powers.

Main tasks and responsibilities :

1. Supervises the technical support function of the SIS.
2. Examines any difficulties of application or interpretation that may arise during the operation of the SIS.
3. Delivers opinions.
4. Aims to harmonize legal practices and interpretation at national level.

The Schengen Information System Part I, Part II
Disclaimer: Every effort is made to provide accurate and complete information. However we cannot guarantee that there will be no errors. We make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the contents of this post, and all provided are to be used as a guideline

Picture by Paul Watson

Processing time:
It is essential to allow yourself sufficient time when applying for a Schengen visa. Make your plans accordingly because the process of getting a Schengen visa may take up to 4 weeks, sometimes even longer.

Processing fee:
Application fees €60 not refundable in case of cancellation or denial.

Schengen visas are issued free of charge to:

• The spouse and to the children under 21 years of age of a European Union national or of a EEA national.
• Children under 6 years.
• School pupils, students, post graduate students and accompanying teachers who undertake trips for the purpose of study or educational training.
• Researchers from third countries traveling within the Community for the purpose of carrying out scientific research.

Visa fee reduced or waived:
In individual cases, the amount of the fee to be charged may be waived or reduced in accordance with national law when this measure serves to promote cultural interests as well as interests in the field of foreign policy, development policy, other areas of vital public interest or for humanitarian reasons.
A fee reduction or waiver for nationals of a third country may also be the result of a visa facilitation agreement concluded between the European Community and that third country consistent with the Community’s overall approach to visa facilitation agreements.

Important notes

• There is no legal right to a visa.
• A later change of the purpose of the visit is NOT permited.
• The total duration of one stay, or of several consecutive stays cannot exceed 3 months per semester in the Schengen-territory.
• Applicants may be requested to submit additional documents.
• Even though you can travel with one visa between Schengen countries, it is safer to carry your passport and any other identification with you. Countries like Sweden and Finland still maintain customs control at their borders.
• Providing all the requested documents does not guarantee the issuance of the visa.
• Documents received by fax or e-mail are not accepted.

Passport pickup:
At the end of the application process, your passport can be picked up at the Consulate of the Schengen country to which you have applied.
There are some countries that can provide another service if you ask them. If you want your passport returned by mail, you must provide a self-addressed return envelope with enough stamps on it when you apply.

Schengen visa extension
A visa may only be extended if new facts have arisen since the visa was issued. A visa extension may not result in the duration of the stay exceeding 90 days. Applications to extend a visa have very powerful reasons to undertake this action, humanitarian grounds or serious occupational or personal reasons. The authority may charge a fee for extending visas.

Appealing against a Schengen visa denial

• Appeals should be exercised in accordance to the law of the Schengen State which has rejected the application.
• A Schengen visa may be denied if the applicant’s name shows in the Schengen Infomation System (SIS) with a “deny entry” alert no matter which of the Schengen member states issued this alert.
• In case of a inaccurate alert, you might want to refer to the court of the state which has issued the alert

A guide to Schengen Visa Part 1, Part 2, Part 3
Disclaimer: Every effort is made to provide accurate and complete information. However we cannot guarantee that there will be no errors. We make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the contents of this post, and all provided are to be used as a guideline

Picture by Paul Watson

Step-by-Step guide
There are different type of Schengen visas, each specially designed to facilitate the particular needs of the visitor like business visa, tourist visa, immigration visa etc… This guide is specially designed for tourist visas. Other guides will soon be available on our website for other types of visas.

Each of the Schengen member states have slightly different application procedures, ask for specific documents and make different charges. We will try our best to include procedures specific for each country. However this is a general overview on the requirements…

1. Fill and sign the Schengen visa application form. The application for must be signed by Applicant with the same signature as the one available on the passport.
2. Add two recent passport-size photographs, in colour (3,5 x 4,5cm), per person, with a white background, with good contrast / clear / good quality, printed on normal photographic paper, unmounted and full face without sunglasses or head covering.
3. Original passport and a photocopy of the personal data pages: passport must be valid at least 3 months after the expected return. Passport must be signed and have at least two blank visa pages.
4. A confirmed return air travel tickets and its photocopy.
5. If you have been previously granted Visas to a Schengen include it to maximize your chances
6. Proof of funds: You will have to provide the necessary documents to prove you have the necessary funds for this visit: copy of Bank Statement and/or International Credit Card….
7. Hotel reservation or information about the host with exact address and housing arrangements must be provided. If your not staying at the hotel a “Certificate of Board and Lodging” must be obtained by the person you are visiting - It can be obtained from the local Town-hall or Police Station- Original + one copy
8. Medical insurance: You must have a medical insurance valid in Europe that covers illness and/or accident charges of a minimum of 30 000€.
9. Itinerary of your trip, indicating the entry and exit dates, the number of days spent and the purpose of visit for each Schengen country you visit (hand written or issued by the travel agency).

N.B.:

• E-mails are not accepted.
• You must apply in person
• Some embassies may limit the number of applications they will accept per day sotry to arrive early in the morning.
• Other embassies may require that you take an appointment for an interview.
• Embassies close on national holidays in their own country.

Additional documents:

• If you are an alien to the country of residence: You must provide the necessary documents that certifies that you demonstrate your residence in that country. For example if you are a Lebanese citizen applying for Schengen visa at the French consulate in Egypt you have to provide Egyptian residency documents.
• If under the age of 18 and traveling without the parents or with one parent:
  1. A parental authorization to travel form, completed and signed by the parents or legal guardian authorizing the child to travel and appointing the person responsible for him. This letter should be authenticated by a solicitor, or by a Consular Officer of the applicants’ nationality;
  2. Parents’ valid passports must be enclosed with the application, or certified copies if the parents are residing abroad;
  3. Original Full Birth Certificate, stating both parents’ names, with official translation if not in French or English. This official translation must be certified as a true copy by your Embassy/ Consulate or by the legalization office of the Schengen country.

N.B.: As in any other important situation, as a responsible citizen you are advised to check your files carefully before applying. All the documents that you present to the Consulate might be requested by the border Police before entering the Schengen State.

A guide to Schengen Visa Part 1, Part 2, Part 3
Disclaimer: Every effort is made to provide accurate and complete information. However we cannot guarantee that there will be no errors. We make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the contents of this post, and all provided are to be used as a guideline

Picture by Paul Watson

It is hard to get a Schengen visa: Myth or Reality?
Acquiring a Schengen visa is not that difficult if you have proper information at hand and you know what to do with it.

Many people try to get a their visa but, lacking help or guidance, eventually fail to do so. It is hard to find all the needed information in just one place.

This step by step guide is written to simplify your life and render the experience of getting your next Schengen visa stress-free.

The good news is that, even though the rules may seem strict, a large majority of the applicants are actually granted visas when they apply at a Consulate of a Schengen member country. However visa applicants must show that they are qualified under the law to receive it. Failing to do so leaves to the consular officer no choice but to turn down their request.

Uniform Visa a Schengen visa for short stays

The Schengen visa is enforced in the following countries :

Austria (A) Italy (I) Belgium (B) Luxembourg (L) Denmark (DK) Norway (N) Finland (FIN) The Netherlands (NL) France (F) Portugal (P) Germany (D) Spain (E) Greece (GR) Sweden (S) Iceland (C)

Although it may seem that this visa was enforced to limit the movement of population it is quite the opposite. When it was introduces its purpose was to eliminate controls at common borders and to promote free movement of people in this selected area. This way the people that live or travel in this area will be free to move anywhere without having to undergo several controls.

Moreover to allow third-country nationals to travel freely between Schengen countries, they create the uniform visa. This visa is valid for a short stay of maximum of 90 days in a six month period.

Where to apply for a Schengen Visa

• Visiting one country only: In case you’re planning on visiting only one country, then you will have to do so at the Embassy or Consulate of that particular country. You apply for a visa at the Embassy or Consulate in whose jurisdiction you are a permanent resident.
• Visiting multiple countries: If your plans are to visit more than one Schengen country during your stay in Europe then, as a general rule, you should apply to the Embassy or Consulate of the Schengen country in which you are going to spend the most amount of time during your trip. If this main destination cannot be determined, then it is a safe choice to apply at the country you will be visiting first.

N.B.:

• If, for whatever reason. you do not need a visa for the Schengen country which is your main destination or first point of entry, we have to remind you that you may require a visa for other Schengen countries you wish to visit.
• Your stay is limited to 90 days within any 6 months period.
• You must check each countries requirements, before assuming that you only require a Schengen visa for your European journey.

A guide to Schengen Visa Part 1, Part 2, Part 3
Disclaimer: Every effort is made to provide accurate and complete information. However we cannot guarantee that there will be no errors. We make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness, or adequacy of the contents of this post, and all provided are to be used as a guideline

Picture by majamarko

You can spend unforgettable holiday in Europe where Christmas season begins four weeks before Christmas Day.
Germany is the country where Christmas is surrounded by lots of mythology and old traditions. What better time for Europe than Christmas, to experience the rich European culture, the charm and irresistible attraction of old traditions?

The Christmas tree is very popular in Germany and people set up and decorate beautiful, sometimes huge Christmas trees all over the country. In Thuringia, 127 years ago, master glassmakers made the first bells and glass balls, which are the traditional decorations to trim the Christmas trees even now.

Picture by Jörg Dickmann

The awesome, rich and really attractive Christmas market in Nurnberg has over 400 years and is visited by people from all over the world. You will never regret five nights spent in a first class hotel in Nurnberg during these magic, beautiful Christmas holidays. You will have the chance to admire old churches, especially decorated with beautiful, rare flowers, and the famous fountain named Schner Brunnen. In Germany, as well as in all European countries, St Nicolas brings gifts the eve of December, 6. Santa Claus is St Nicolas incarnation, and is also known as Rauklaus, Klaasbuur or Sunnercla all over Germany. But people and especially children know him as Father Christmas and he appear on Christmas Eve.

Picture by Tinker*Tailor

In France and Italy, nearly every home displays a nativity scene (crèche or presepe). There are little statues, representing the Holy Family, shepherds, and the Magi. The tradition is respected since the seventeenth century, as well as setting up rich and spectacular Christmas fairs. Paris, an eternal attraction, is really brilliant this time of the year, and more romantic than never. Marseille and Aix, in the South of France, are a romantic and exquisite place to spend a holiday. In France, children wait for Père Noel to come with gifts, Christmas tree and decorations, in Italy Father Christmas is called Babo Natale.

In Italy, even the winter is attractive; Cremona or Modena, Bologna or Milan is beautifully prepared for Christmas, spectacular and sophisticated decorations are all over the country. Maybe the most romantic Christmas holiday place to go is a small old picturesque manor in North Italy, with beautiful Christmas tree, splendid lights, decorations and traditional meals after the Midnight Mass. You also can book private villas not only in Italy, but all over Europe. Never forget Venice, Rome and Florence, their magnificent cathedrals and museums, more splendid and illuminated during Christmas time.

Since many years, in Europe, Christmas is the tradition involving almost family and friends, and from December 24 until January, 6 (Epiphany) families celebrate together this beautiful time of the year. In almost all European countries, the most attractive point of the Christmas holiday is the Midnight Mass, when a service is celebrated by Catholics, Protestants and Orthodox.