With countless measures, the federal and state governments are currently giving the economy a helping hand.

Billions are provided for the rescue of existences and the stabilization of the economic situation. The experiences with individual measures are currently also shaping everyday life in the tax office.

A small overview:

At the beginning of the Corona crisis, aid was introduced that does not have to be repaid under certain conditions.

This includes emergency aid, which provides fast, unbureaucratic support. The package of measures was supplemented by the so-called bridging assistance, which has since been extended, expanded and simplified.

In addition, there are also industry-specific aid programs such as the stabilization aid for the hotel and catering industry or the coach sector. Furthermore, liquidity loans, equity participation programs, repayment subsidies and guarantees have been created or adjusted in line with corona requirements.

The tax authorities are giving taxpayers a welcome respite in the event of financial bottlenecks by offering deferral options and suspending the obligation to file for insolvency for three weeks, which is subject to liability and in some cases to penalties.

On the other hand, the sales tax cut introduced in July to boost the economy is causing skepticism. With 20 billion. The reduction in sales tax, which will mean less tax revenue in euros and additional consulting costs, is hardly in proportion to the hoped-for increase in consumption. Possibly, for example, the early abolition of the Solis or another sustainable tax cut would have made more sense.

As tax consultants, we are involved on a practically daily basis in the procedures surrounding the use of the aid programs (Baden-Wurttemberg) and assist our clients in dealing with the public program of measures. Partly because some measures are tax-related in nature, but also because many aids require confirmation and application on our part.

We not only accompany our clients on the bureaucratic path, but also give them the opportunity to benefit from our experience with the Corona package of measures. This often saves detours and ensures that all options are exhausted.

A key impetus that we should all take away from the past few months is that of accelerating digitization in our country. In the current situation, there is still room for improvement in the ability to receive and pass on help and information digitally.

We tax advisors also face new challenges here. The FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions) provided by the government is not always clearly formulated and in some cases still leaves questions unanswered. This means that even we do not always have an answer ready off the cuff, and we are learning every day.

Nevertheless, there are reasons for us to take a positive view of the aid packages.

Even if some people still feel they have not been taken into account, experience since March has already shown a learning curve: gaps are being closed and programs are being supplemented as needed.

In conclusion, however, it should be said that the federal government's package of measures, which is steeped in history, also contains a raised index finger:

The aid is intended to ensure the survival of companies and their employees during the pandemic and in no way to close existing revenue gaps!

The sword of Damocles "subsidy fraud" always hovers over the use of Corona aid.

We recommend conscientious documentation and the use of free spaces in applications to note any ambiguities.

With prudence and competent advice from the RTS Group, it is possible to ensure that government assistance does not end up costing more than it helps.

The post Corona relief – a look behind the mask appeared first on Jhcolorpowdercoating.

The most important facts in brief

• In the "Arena" it is discussed whether the CS support was a state bailout.
• SP-Widmer says yes, because the SNB has spent people's money on it.
• SVP Matter contradicts, it was just a loan that must be repaid.

This week, Credit Suisse's share price took a real dive. With a market value of 1.56 francs, the security even reached a new low on Wednesday afternoon. Already in the night to Thursday the message followed: CS wants to borrow up to 50 billion francs from the Swiss National Bank. It's a news story that's making headlines abroad, too.

In the "Arena" on Friday evening, terminology was discussed: For SP National Councilor Celine Widmer, it is clear that Credit Suisse has been saved by the state. SVP National Councilor Thomas Matter disagrees: It was not a government bailout, the SNB merely stabilized the financial market, which is also its mandate. National Bank had received collateral, the loan also cost CS. "So far, it has not cost the taxpayer a single centime."

The SNB has spent people's money on this, so it is a state bailout, Widmer said. At the moment it is a loan and she hopes that it will be paid back. "But we do not know how the risk has been assessed."

There is no unanimity in the terminology discussion. But when it came to naming the culprits, participants agree: the bank's former management.

Matter: "It's unbelievable what Credit Suisse managers have been up to

"What past CS managements have afforded themselves is unbelievable," says Matter. Managers would have helped themselves to cash registers that did not belong to them. In the last 20 years, Credit Suisse has paid out 42 billion Swiss francs in bonuses. "This is a complete abuse of the free market."

Widmer also wants to start with the bonuses, because the system is based on false incentives. That is why regulations are needed. But Matter doesn't think much of that, he wants to give the owners more rights, because they own the money, not the state.

Widmer proposes to regulate then at least in the case of systemically important banks. Because here the SNB intervenes in case of emergency. Therefore, it is wrong that the bonus system is set up to incentivize high-risk strategies. "Bonuses at systemically important banks must be regulated by law."

Klaus Wellershoff, former chief economist of the Swiss Bankers Association and UBS, thinks little of the bonus discussion: All 300 banks in Switzerland have a bonus system, and nothing has happened at 299 of them. It is exaggerated to start here, especially when one has already identified mistakes in the management.

Economist in "Arena": Banking crisis cannot be regulated away

Another proposal by Widmer to make the banking system more sustainable is fines. It requires that the financial market supervisory authority Finma could give fines. Banks that behaved like Credit Suisse should thus be able to be punished.

The post Matter: credit suisse support didn’t cost taxpayers anything appeared first on Jhcolorpowdercoating.

Mallorca explore the popular island with a rental car

Crete Explore the beautiful island by rental car

Algarve by rental car Portugal's fascinating coastline

Accelerate on vacation – but with caution!

On vacation, there is nothing better than to explore the vacation destination independently with your own rental car. Traveling with one's own vehicle can also initiate a varied vacation period. Especially for families, who usually carry more than the 20 kg of luggage allowed for air travel, the car as a means of transport brings some advantages. If you are traveling in other European countries, you should find out in advance about the applicable traffic regulations; TravelScout24 can help you in this section. Here you can get an initial overview of what you should look out for on a trip on distant asphalt..

• Driver's license
• Specifics in individual countries
• traffic offences
• Top 5 tips

With most within the EU states you can drive with your German driver's license without hesitation. Even in tourist areas within the U.S., the usual driver's license is sufficient. If you explore Iceland or the Baltic countries Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania by motor vehicle on your own, you need an international driver's license in any case. You can obtain this from your driver's license office or the citizens' registration office. The processing time is about five weeks. Note that you have a check card driver's license, because a paper driver's license is not accepted as a requirement. Otherwise, you will have to exchange your old driver's license for a check-card driver's license.

This document is also recommended in Malta, Moldova and Ukraine. To apply for an international driver's license, you need to have your current identification documents, your German driver's license and passport photos ready. The international driver's license is then valid for three years and can not be extended.

Other countries, other traffic rules – this also applies to other European countries. The following is a selection of popular road trip vacation destinations, you should in any case before you start to inform yourself in detail about your destination area. As a matter of principle, stick to these rules, even if the locals often set a bad example and don't stop at crosswalks or red lights. The fines for even minor traffic offences are in many cases significantly higher than in Germany. For novice drivers who have held their license for less than two years, special rules apply with regard to blood alcohol limits and speed limits.

France

If you are traveling by car in France, keep plenty of change or a credit card handy. On almost all freeway routes you have to pay tolls, as a guideline you can calculate ca. budget seven euros per 100 kilometers. In general, you must take off the gas on the highways of France, the uniform speed limit of 130 km / h may not be exceeded. You are allowed to drive on expressways at a speed of 110 km/h, within built-up areas the same rules apply as in Germany. Novice drivers are allowed to drive 110 km/h on highways, 100 km/h on expressways.

You can park in zones marked in blue with a parking disc, yellow stripes at the edge of the road signal an absolute parking ban. Keep this absolutely, the fines are usually higher than in Germany and can put a heavy strain on the travel budget.

Great Britain and Ireland

If you go on a long trip by car in Great Britain, you will already see the sign for left-hand traffic when you drive through the Eurotunnel or leave the ferry. Therefore, please do not be surprised if the British rental cars have the steering wheel on the "wrong" side for us. The numerous traffic circles can be particularly problematic: Please drive around to the left, when leaving them, get into the left, outer lane at multi-lane "roundabouts".

Overtaking also needs to be learned: Right instead of left is the motto here. If you are driving your own car, "trim" the headlights with a masking film from a specialty store, otherwise you will dazzle oncoming traffic with the cones of light aimed at the right edge of the lane.

Speeds are given in miles per hour and are generally slower than in Germany: on the freeways you drive at 70 m/h (equivalent to 120 km/h), within British and Irish towns you may drive at a maximum of 48 km/h.

Tolls on freeways do not apply. However, in the center of London you have to pay a congestion charge of approx. Pay 12 euros per day.

You can recognize the parking prohibition by the red and yellow markings at the edge of the roadway. A double white line signals you a no stopping zone. If you park directly on two red lines, you will be towed away shortly.

Next to the stop sign, the "Give Way" sign indicates that you must yield the right of way. A white cross line also indicates a stop sign. If the marking of the right of way is missing, you have to communicate by flasher or hand signal.

Italy

Similar to France, you can expect to pay tolls of seven euros per 100 kilometers in Italy. By the way, you can also pay for this cashlessly with your credit card. The speed limit on freeways is 130 km/h, in towns you drive with 50 km/h like in Germany.

You should not park on curbs marked in black and yellow, because parking is absolutely prohibited here.

See and be seen: Even during the day, you must drive with dipped headlights on highways and country roads here.

A high-visibility vest belongs in every vehicle. during a normal traffic control you will be betsraft with a fine, should the warning vest be missing.

Unfortunately, you cannot fill up your tank, because it is strictly forbidden to carry reserve canisters. There is also a special feature at traffic circles. Here, as in France and Austria, you have the right of way when driving on it. However, Italians do not comply in every case. Therefore, drive very attentively and in principle more cautiously than the locals.

Austria

On the Austrian freeways you need a vignette, which costs about 9 euros for ten days and takes up 26 euros of your travel budget for two months. For the Brennereuropabrucke and the Tauernautobahn a special toll is charged. Note that the speed limit of 130 km/h on freeways has been lowered to 110 km/h between 10 pm and 5 am tomorrow.

You can recognize the parking ban by the yellow jagged lines located at the edge of the lane.

The right-of-way rules can change in ongoing traffic, because the person who stops loses his right of way.

In Austria, the same applies: Only drive with your lights on!

Switzerland

Here you also need a vignette for driving on a freeway. These can be obtained at rest areas and service stations near the border, as well as from the ADAC. The speed limit is 120 km/h, on country roads you are allowed to drive at a maximum speed of 80 km/h. Especially in Switzerland, traffic offenses are punished with high fines: There are z.B. no tolerance limit for speeding as in Germany. If you drive even one kilometer per hour too fast, you pay 40 Swiss francs.

In Switzerland, too, colorful lane markings indicate that parking is prohibited. On the blue areas you can only park for a limited period of time, yellow lines indicate a no-stopping zone, while yellow crosses with yellow connecting lines indicate an absolute no-parking zone.

The joy of the drivable vehicle on vacation is great. Fines, which you have to pay due to ignorance of the applicable traffic rules, are less popular. In principle, the fines in other European countries are higher than in Germany – therefore, inform yourself comprehensively about the respective local regulations before starting your journey. Even across borders, you will be prosecuted for minor or major traffic offenses, because by charging with a credit card you deposit your data at the same time.

In Italy, for example, you will be fined 140 euros for exceeding the speed limit by 20 km/h in built-up areas, while in Spain you can expect to pay up to 300 euros. Talking on a cell phone while driving is also frowned upon and, above all, very expensive: fines range from 120 to 150 euros in Greece, Hungary, Norway, Portugal and the Netherlands.

Not wearing a high-visibility vest when leaving the vehicle unscheduled on country roads or highways is also punished in Italy with a fine of 100 euros. In Austria and Portugal, on the other hand, the absence of a high-visibility vest in the trunk is punishable by a fine.

Traffic violations abroad do not increase your points account in Flensburg, but you will often be asked to pay on the spot. If you are unable to pay the fine, the police have the right to impound your vehicle until payment is made.

1. Be sure to follow the traffic rules when abroad, because the
are high. Safety on vacation should come before speed.

2. If you break down or have an accident, call the police, secure
the scene of the accident and put on a high-visibility vest. Mandatory in many countries such as Belgium, Italy, Spain, Portugal, Croatia, Montenegro and Hungary. In this case, do not sign any documents that you cannot translate, but fill out a European accident report form. In case of an accident with a rental car, contact the rental car company immediately. Do not have the car towed or repair it yourself under any circumstances.

3. Before you leave on vacation with your own car, equip at the
best to pay a short visit to the garage you trust. Nothing is more annoying than a breakdown during the vacation drive, which you could have averted in advance.

4. If you decide to book the rental car only on the spot, then
it is advisable to take out car insurance for rental vehicles in Europe while still in Germany. Policies are also offered locally, but the coverage is much lower than in Germany. Car rental offers from local providers often appear cheaper at first glance. However, often additional insurances have to be taken out, which are expensive. To be covered in the event of a potential dispute, it is strongly recommended that you book with a contractor based in Germany.

5. Plan enough time for your journey or exploration tour.
Change drivers if possible and take sufficient breaks. After all, you are on vacation and not on the run.

The post Rental cars worldwide appeared first on Jhcolorpowdercoating.

From an economical small car and a building standard

Flashback to 1999: Volkswagen causes a sensation on the automotive market with its Lupo 3L TDI. The runabout is the first series-produced car to consume just 3 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers. For this economical small car, the designation "3-liter car" really suggested itself. Apparently, researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Building Physics (IBIP) were inspired by this: In keeping with the hype surrounding the little VW Lupo, they have developed a new low-energy standard for buildings.

As a result, towards the end of the 1990s, the term 3-liter house also became established. But what exactly is behind the term? This refers to consumption, which is around 30 kilowatt hours per square meter. Converted, this corresponds to 3 liters of oil or alternatively 3 cubic meters of natural gas per square meter within a year. The heating energy requirement of the 3-liter house is thus lower than that of a classic low-energy house, but still higher than that of a passive house. Some components of this type of building must meet certain requirements.

The characteristics of a 3-liter house

With regard to the criteria of a 3-liter house, it is important to mention that no uniform standard exists. However, the Fraunhofer Institute for Building Physics has drawn up some specifications that can be compared with those of a low-energy house – although higher-quality components are required. To be declared a 3-liter house, the following characteristics must be met:

• Heat-insulating frames and triple glazing are planned for the windows.
• A thickness of at least 45 millimeters is required for the insulation of the outer wall.
• For the ceilings, the roof as well as a possible cellar it requires also an excellent insulation.
• In principle, there must be no thermal bridges.
• It is desirable for heating to be as energy efficient as possible.
• Ideally, solar thermal energy for exhaust air and hot water will be used.

When the concept of the 3-liter house emerged, IBIP, in cooperation with several partners, had a settlement of model houses built in Celle, Lower Saxony. Emphasis was placed on the fact that the building standard is not tied to any specific construction method. The only thing that is considered crucial is to comply with the specified heating consumption. Typical external features are therefore not to be mentioned. Instead, individual wishes of the builders are to be implemented. Accordingly, the architecture as well as the construction and building services of a 3-liter house can be chosen freely to a large extent. However, large south-facing windows are considered common to benefit from solar energy.

Saving energy efficiently: the principle of a 3-liter house in detail

What the energy-saving properties of the 3-liter house can be achieved by is already indicated by the criteria. An important role is given to the building envelope. It must ensure that cold from outside cannot penetrate and the heat inside cannot escape to the outside. Accordingly, high-quality insulation of the exterior walls, windows and doors as well as the roof is essential. It is the basis for low energy consumption.

In a 3-liter house, several energy cycles run – this sometimes happens in parallel. If the sun is shining, heat is absorbed through the generous windows on the south side. Light hits the floor and interior walls, which then emit it into the room. The comfort ventilation system then distributes the heat throughout the entire building. In a sense, it ensures that the house can breathe. From rooms with a high air load, such as the bathroom, the living room or the kitchen, it discharges the warm air from the room.

It then conducts the air outside. This is done with the help of a heat exchanger, through which fresh outside air is simultaneously taken in and warmed up. It is then directed into rooms where the demand for fresh air is particularly high, such as the bedroom or study. On very frosty days, the cold outside air is preheated by a geothermal heat exchanger.

Instead of using the heating system, a buffer tank can be used to provide heat in the 3-liter house on cold days. Via a distribution system, it brings temporarily stored heat into the installed heating systems of the building. It also ensures the right temperature for domestic water, which is needed, for example, in the bathroom, kitchen or even for a dishwasher. The heating system in the 3-liter house is only required when there is a lack of sunlight, the days are particularly frosty or the cold has already lasted for some time. Depending on the system, the heat is then generated by a water pump, a gas heater, an oil heater or a tile or pellet stove with a water heat exchanger.

It then reaches all heated rooms in the house through the comfort ventilation system. Since the other energy cycles take effect beforehand and the heating is only activated in the last instance, the energy-saving mode of operation of this type of building can be guaranteed.

This makes the concept of the 3-liter house suitable for existing buildings as well

If the concept of a 3-liter house is planned from the outset for a planned new building, this makes implementation easier. However, the principle can also be applied to existing buildings. A striking example of such a retrofit can be found in Ludwigshafen's Brunckviertel, a workers' housing estate from the 1930s. The properties were all converted into low-energy houses. In the course of this, the first 3-liter house in Germany was created there from an existing building.

It is not possible to say in general terms for all properties what specific measures are required for this purpose. Each is to be considered individually and at the same time the 3-liter house is not subject to a fixed grid of specifications. It is suitable for many different types of building. Exemplarily and for a better understanding some of the works shall be mentioned here:

• Installing plastic window frames with an insulating core
• Integrating windows with triple glazing
• Increasing the size of the south-facing windows for passive solar gain
• Optimize the insulation of the facade and roof to eliminate thermal bridges
• Ensuring controlled ventilation of the apartments

The advantages and disadvantages of a 3-liter house

Does a 3-liter house fit in with my personal ideas of a home of my own?? When considering this, it helps to keep the advantages and possible disadvantages in mind. Costs are often cited as a point of criticism. In order to meet the requirements, higher investments have to be planned compared to a conventional, comparable property. These are incurred, for example, for the high-quality insulation or the windows. Meticulous care must also be taken to comply with the specifications – if only to be able to benefit from a homeowner's subsidy.

Just that promotion is understood as a pro-argument for the 3-liter house. The project can be implemented more easily thanks to a state financial injection. The general concept of this type of building is also considered an advantage. Thanks to the energy-saving mode of operation, the owners save a considerable amount of money in the long term. This efficiency is achieved through optimized insulation, as thermal bridges are eliminated. Lower consumption also means a step toward greater sustainability – especially since energy for the 3-liter house comes only from environmentally friendly sources. In today's world, the associated climate protection can also be seen as an advantage. Since the concept is considered versatile, it is suitable for both solid and prefabricated houses.

What does a 3-liter house cost and what funding options are available??

It is not possible to make a generally valid statement about the costs involved in building a 3-liter house or converting an existing building into one. Too many individual factors have an influence. Decisive factors include size, number of stories and location. However, one thing is certain: the bottom line is that the financial outlay is higher than for a comparable conventional property. However, it is also important to bear in mind that several hundred euros can be saved annually on energy costs. Over time, the expenditure is thus amortized.

There are also subsidy options available. To find out how high they are, it is helpful to look at the efficiency house standards of the Kreditanstalt fur Wiederaufbau (KfW). With its heating energy requirement of around 30 kilowatt hours per square meter per year, the building type falls into at least the Efficiency House 55 category. Also the classification as efficiency house 40 is conceivable. This is promoted for residential buildings by the KfW as follows:

• new construction and initial purchase (KfW loans 297 and 298):
  Low-interest loan up to 150.000 Euro, term max. 35 years, fixed interest max. 10 years
• Energy-efficient refurbishment of existing buildings (KfW loan 261):
  Low-interest loan up to 150.000 euros, repayment subsidy between 5 and 45 percent

Alternatively, a pure grant can be applied for. This in turn is done through the Federal Office of Economics and Export Control (BAFA). The amount of this subsidy corresponds in each case to the repayment-free sum of the KfW loan.

Conclusion: Efficiency and flexibility as strengths of the 3-liter house

The 3-liter house is efficient and based on a fairly flexible concept. After all, it is suitable for a wide variety of building types. It can be used for solid houses and prefabricated houses, while still allowing a lot of design freedom. In addition, with appropriate renovation, it is even possible for existing properties. There are also several options for heating technology. This makes the 3-liter house an innovative solution that also opens up attractive subsidy opportunities. With the passive house, there is an even more economical alternative, but it cannot keep up in terms of flexibility.

The post Not only feasible for new buildings – the 3-liter house appeared first on Jhcolorpowdercoating.

A city often overlooked by international visitors should not be missed. If only for a few days, you can immerse yourself in one of the most authentic cities in the U.S. With a strong sports community, a thriving music scene and an evolving food culture, Atlanta is just waiting to be explored.

Atlanta wears its history proudly, but also lives in the moment. There's always something funny going on in Atlanta – you just have to look in the right places. From the 1996 Olympic Park or an Atlanta Falcons game to the celebration of the 4. July at Turner Field – the possibilities are endless.

As a diverse city, Atlanta changes from neighborhood to neighborhood. It is a real eclectic mix. Will you feel at home in Downtown Atlanta or Inman Park? You may want to live like a local in Sweet Auburn?

Let's take a look at where to live in Atlanta.

Downtown

Downtown Atlanta is the heart and soul of the city. The central business district as well as the most important tourist hotspots are located here. Downtown is a great place if you are in Atlanta for the first time. But even if you're just taking a quick tour of Georgia, downtown is a great neighborhood to base yourself in.

Downtown is surprisingly green for an inner-city area. There are a number of parks that are for the general public to enjoy. In the heart of the city is Centennial Olympic Park. It's rare to find such an impressive Olympic Park in a central business district, but the 1996 Olympic legacy lives on strong in the heart of Downtown.

There are a large number of must-visit museums in downtown Atlanta, namely the Center for Civil and Human Rights. Atlanta played an important role in the civil rights movement of the 1940s to 1960s.

Good for: Active travelers, business travelers, travelers with big budgets, budding historians, city travelers, culture vultures, sports lovers, short vacationers

Neighborhood highlights: Center for Civil and Human Rights, Centennial Olympic Park, Georgia World Congress Center, Georgia International Plaza, CNN Studio Tours, SkyView Atlanta Georgia, World of Coca-Cola, Agatha's A Taste of Mystery, Apex Museum

• Sheraton Atlanta Hotel – The Sheraton Atlanta is located in the heart of downtown. With an incredible selection of amenities, guests' every need is met. Guests can take advantage of the free WiFi, the hot tub, and the gym, which is open around the clock. Coffee-making facilities are available in all rooms.
• Aloft Atlanta Downtown – Modern, bright and super stylish, the Aloft is one of the coolest places to stay downtown. The rooms are colorful and have trendy, urban decor. Many rooms offer great views of the city and WiFi is available throughout the hotel. Guests can relax at the on-site bar, W XYZ.
• Hyatt Regency Atlanta – Opulent and regal, the Hyatt Regency is a fantastic place to stay downtown. There are three different dining venues within the hotel, including a rotating restaurant. There is an outdoor pool as well as a well-equipped fitness center. All rooms have private baths, and suites are also available.

Midtown

If you want to be in the middle of the action but don't necessarily want the rush-hour hustle and bustle twice a day, check out Midtown. Located just north of Downtown, Midtown is a little bit commercial, a little bit artsy, and a little bit residential. These three aspects combine to create a vibrant and thriving neighborhood that is a joy to explore.

The High Museum of Arts is one of the most visited museums in Atlanta and is located at the northern tip of Midtown. This museum houses a truly diverse curation of modern art in one of Atlanta's most distinctive buildings. Within close proximity to the High Museum of Arts, you'll find other incredible art venues, including the Woodruff Arts Center.

For art lovers, culture vultures and urbanites who like a slower pace of exploration, Midtown is a fantastic place to stay in Atlanta.

Good for: Art lovers, architecture enthusiasts, budget backpackers, urbanites, culture vultures, foodies, like a local travelers, party people, young travelers.

Neighborhood highlights: High Museum of Arts, Museum of Design Atlanta, Woodruff Arts Center, Opera Nightclub, Lava Lounge, Botanical Garden of Atlanta, Center for Puppetry Arts, Winn Park, Yonah Park

• Renaissance Atlanta Midtown – With neutral tones and modern furnishings, the Renaissance Atlanta is a great place to stay in Midtown. Many rooms offer impressive views of the downtown skyscrapers. Both rooms and spacious suites are available. There's a rooftop bar that serves craft beer, cocktails, and light snacks and is open seasonally.
• W Atlanta – The W Atlanta is a wonderful place to stay in Midtown. Rooms are modern and minimalist, and many feature luxurious bathtubs. The suites are huge, feature ultra-modern furnishings and incredible views of the city. Each room features a flat-screen TV, iPod docking station, and extensive media library.
• Hilton Garden Inn – For affordable luxury in Midtown, the Hilton Garden Inn is a great place to stay. This Hilton hotel offers both classic and modern design elements. There's a business center where guests can work throughout the day. There's also an outdoor pool and fitness center.

Old Fourth Ward

Once an industrial area of Atlanta, Old Fourth Ward, like so many neighborhoods, has undergone rapid renewal. Old Fourth Ward is a hotspot for hipsters, yuppies and travelers looking for a local-like experience.

Just minutes from downtown, Old Fourth Ward is home to Atlanta's burgeoning food culture. Urban coffee bars abound, as well as trendy restaurants and markets. Die-hard foodies should take a trip to Irwin Street Market. You will find refined restaurants and artisan foods from around the world. Fashionistas should head to Ponce City Market to grab some vintage bargains.

Historically, there is much to explore in the Old Fourth Ward; no visit to Atlanta would be complete without a visit to the birthplace of Martin Luther King Jr. on Auburn Avenue.

Good for: Budget backpackers, budding historians, city slickers, culture vultures, foodies, trendy travelers, like a local travelers, party people, young travelers

Neighborhood highlights: Irwin Street Market, Ponce City Market, Martin Luther King Jr's birthplace, Historic Fourth Ward Park, Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum, TWO urban licks live music bar, Shakespeare Tavern Playhouse

• Staybridge Suites – Staybridge Suites is located on the border of the Old Fourth Ward and Midtown, just 400 meters from the FOX Theatre. Guests can take advantage of the outdoor pool and fitness center. Each suite features a fully equipped kitchen, work area, private bath and comfortable living area.
• Hotel Clermont – With a wonderfully homey atmosphere, Hotel Clermont is a wonderful place to stay in Old Fourth Ward. With king-size rooms, four-bed rooms and a range of executive suites, Hotel Clermont has something for every type of traveler. There is an in-house bar and restaurant.
• Crowne Plaza – The Crowne Plaza is a modern hotel with appealing decor. There is an in-house bar with a lounge and a restaurant. Guests can swim in the rooftop pool or simply enjoy the city view. A breakfast buffet is served daily and is complimentary with some room rates.

Inman Park

A small town all its own, nestled in the inner sphere of Atlanta, Inman Park is a wonderful neighborhood in Georgia's state capital. Ideal for travelers looking for the local experience but also want to enjoy the nightlife, green spaces and amazing museums.

It's easy to get from one neighborhood to the next in Atlanta. The MARTA rapid transit system and the Atlanta Streetcar make it very easy and affordable to explore the city. Staying in Inman Park gives you easy access to fashionable Old Fourth Ward and multicultural Sweet Auburn.

There are plenty of green spaces to explore at Inman Park. The neighborhood transitions into Freedom Park, where the Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum is located. If you follow the Freedom Park Connector Trail, you'll cross the neighborhood and reach the Inman Park-Reynoldstown Transit Station, ready to head downtown.

Good for: Active travelers, budding historians, couples, culture vultures, families, foodies, travelers like a local, travelers on a budget.

Neighborhood highlights: Inman Park, Freedom Park, Springvale Park, Jimmy Carter Presidential Library and Museum, Horizon Theatre Company, 7 Stages Theatre Company, The Porter Beer Bar, Ladybird Grove& Mess Hall, Wrecking Bar Brewpub.

• Urban Oasis – Cozy, homey and equipped with an open fireplace, the Urban Oasis is a true home away from home. Guests can relax in the manicured garden or cozy up in the living room. There is free WiFi throughout the house and central heating is also available. Urban Oasis is just a short walk from Inman Park.
• Traveler's Nook – With a cottage-like feel and bright color scheme, Traveler's Nook is a bit of a gem. With room for one guest, this is the perfect place for solo travelers on a budget. Guests can use the communal kitchen to prepare their own meals and hot drinks.
• Hip Historic Loft – In keeping with the trendy character of the neighborhood, the Hip Historic Loft is an urban paradise. Furnished with vintage wood furniture and modern decor, this is a hipster home away from home. There's a 50" TV with Netflix, Hulu and other cable channels. Guests are invited to chill out on the terrace.

Grant Park

Home to lush Victorian mansions and some of Atlanta's wealthier residents, Grant Park is a wonderful place to stay for any type of traveler. With easy access to downtown transportation and walking trails, Grant Park truly offers the best of both worlds.

Outside the park, there's something very calming about a walk through the Grant Park neighborhood. Take a peek at the Victorian mansions and dream about which one you would buy if you had all the money in the world.

There's a massive boom in craft breweries throughout the United States of America, and Atlanta is no exception. Although many of the local craft beers are produced in the suburbs, where innovators have access to cheap rent, there are a number of ultra-trendy brew bars in Grant Park. Eventide Brewing and The Brass Tap are a good place to start.

Good for: Active travelers, couples, culture vultures, families, foodies, travelers like a local, mid-budget travelers, luxury travelers.

Neighborhood Highlights: Grant Park Georgia Hill Neighborhood Center, Erskine Memorial Fountain, Eventide Brewing, The Brass Tap

• The Grant – Whitewashed with a few splashes of yellow, The Grant is a wonderful place to call your own while in Atlanta. This micro-studio sleeps up to two people and is located in a 120-year-old Victorian home. Breakfast is included in the nightly rate, as is WiFi.
• Sanctuary in the City – Sanctuary in the City is just that, a sanctuary. This beautifully decorated apartment offers guests the opportunity to live like a local and relax at the end of a long day of exploring Atlanta. There is a refrigerator and microwave to prepare simple meals. Coffee and nibbles are provided.
• The Buchanan House – Like something out of a lifestyle magazine, the Buchanan House is located in the heart of the Grant Park neighborhood and was built in the 1890s. Guests have their own entrance, living room and small kitchen as well. The bedroom is bright and furnished with beautiful, high-quality bedding. Breakfast is offered.

Sweet Auburn

This historic neighborhood has played a significant role in modern America. Sweet Auburn was a hive of activity during the civil rights movement and remains a bustling and thriving neighborhood today. Depending on who you talk to, you may notice the birthplace of Martin Luther King Jr. in either Old Fourth Ward or Sweet Auburn. The two neighborhoods are inextricably linked by their shared history.

Located in the heart of the Sweet Auburn neighborhood, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park and the King Centre. Both locations commemorate the pioneering work and courage Atlanta citizens showed in the face of adversity. This neighborhood is an essential part of modern America and should not be missed during any stay in the city.

After the humbling experience of learning about the civil rights movement, travelers can head to Edgewood Avenue to hang out at the hipster bars and admire the impressive street art.

Good for: Active travelers, budget-conscious backpackers, budding historians, couples, city travelers, culture vultures, foodies, families, trendy travelers, travelers who feel like a local.

Neighborhood Highlights: Martin Luther King Jr National Historical Park, The King Centre, Martin Luther King Jr's Birth Home, Historic Ebenezer Baptist Church, Historic Fire Station 6, Escape Room Atlanta, Selena S. Butler Park, the Sound Table, Cafe Circa, Georgia Beer Garden,

• Chic and Central Oasis – Chic and Central Oasis is an open apartment that has a fully equipped kitchen and a large L-shaped sofa. As a true home away from home, the apartment can sleep up to three guests. Guests have their own entrance and off-street parking is available.
• The Krog – The Krog is an oversized Victorian bungalow that can sleep up to four guests. The Krog has a cottage-like feel and the decor is chic and modern. There is a fully equipped kitchen with dining room. There are laundry facilities, free WiFi and cable TV.
• Atlanta Loft – Located in the heart of Sweet Auburn, the Atlanta Loft is an open, modern space. The apartment has an artistic flair and plenty of room to spread out – it sleeps up to seven people. There is a fully equipped kitchen that includes an oven and a nice dining area.

Buckhead

For travelers looking to stay a little off the beaten path in Atlanta, Buckhead is the place to go. This collection of affluent uptown neighborhoods is a great place to stay if you want to experience the most authentic side of Atlanta.

The great thing about Buckhead is that travelers can be in the heart of Downton within a 10-minute drive or just 40 minutes by public transportation. Regardless of how travelers arrive and depart, exploring an under-the-radar Atlanta neighborhood can do wonders for an intrepid downtown explorer's street credit.

In the heart of the Buckhead neighborhood is the Atlanta History Centre. The center features exhibits about the antebellum South. Located on an 1845 farm that once also served as a blacksmith shop and smokehouse. A visit to the Atlanta History Center, which spans 33 acres, is the perfect complement to a day exploring Old Fourth Ward and Sweet Auburn.

Good for: Active travelers, budding historians, couples, culture vultures, families, travelers like locals, mid-to-luxury travelers, road trippers.

Neighborhood highlights: Atlanta History Center, Atlanta Memorial Park, The Punchline Comedy Club, The Painted Pin, Brookwood Hills Historic District, Chastain Park Golf Course, Phipps Plaza, The Shops at Buckhead, The Meredith House

• Windgate by Wyndham – With an outdoor pool, a luxurious hot tub and an excellent fitness center, the Windgate by Wyndham is a great hotel in Buckhead. The hotel offers airport shuttle service upon request and the staff is happy to advise on how to best explore Atlanta using Buckhead as a base of operations.
• Homewood Suites by Hilton – Homewood Suites by Hilton offers guests the opportunity to stay in a beautiful, airy space while in Buckhead. Guest suites all have fully furnished living rooms with flat-screen TVs. There is a simple kitchen in each suite in addition to a private bathroom with a walk-in shower.
• Hampton Inn – With a modern and high-end feel, Hampton Inn reflects the upscale feel of Buckhead throughout the property. Guests have access to the outdoor swimming pool and fitness center. The Hampton Inn offers every morning a good breakfast buffet, which is free with some room rates. There is free on-site parking.

The post Lodging in atlanta – neighborhoods & surroundings appeared first on Jhcolorpowdercoating.

Bank of Scotland app – important information at a glance

• App available for different smartphones in each case
• Banking apps for iPhone / Android in English not in German
• Bank of Scotland branch Germany with online banking only

Bank of Scotland app for Android and iPhone

Compared to the UK Bank of Scotland, which does extensive banking for its customers on the island, the German bank branch is only very modestly active. You can only open and manage a call money account at the online bank and take out and repay a car loan. That's all the online bank offers German customers.

The situation is different if you are a resident of the UK and open an account there directly with the British Bank of Scotland. One reason for the low range of services in Germany is certainly the fact that Great Britain has its own currency, the British pound, and not our euro, and cross-currency transactions always cost additional money.

Since 2009, the Bank of Scotland has been owned by Lloyds Banking Group, which operates in more than 30 countries and serves about 30 million customers. The online bank is also a globally operating commercial bank, which provides many of its customers with the service of a mobile banking app in addition to normal online banking.

Apps are available for a wide range of smartphones, from Android phones to iPhones and Windows devices. It can be used to call up information and perform the usual banking functions. You can check balances on UK accounts, make transfers and payments.

Thanks to the app, you can find the nearest Bank of Scotland branch or ATM machine. You can use the apps only under certain conditions. The device must meet certain technical requirements. For this, data access must be activated on the device. You need a personal account with login data (username, password) at the Bank of Scotland UK. Finally, you must be in possession of a current phone number with which you registered at the bank. If necessary, you can send a letter to activate the banking app.

NOTE!
Bank of Scotland's banking apps leave little to be desired, to the extent that UK customers can use them at all. German customers do their banking via online banking!

Online banking with the German Bank of Scotland

As a customer of the German Bank of Scotland you can place your orders mostly via online banking. The banking platform and banking with mTAN meets the usual security standards. For login you always need a username and a valid PIN determined by you.

In the online banking area you can get information about the call money account and the car loan. You cannot change any data in the latter case, but you can in the case of a call money account. Here you can change your exemption order if necessary or your reference account.

Via the mailbox in your personal online banking area, you are also welcome to contact us by mail, in which we can also send you account-related information.

A Bank of Scotland app for customers of the German branch does not exist. There are some external applications for mobile banking. It doesn't always work out with the integration of the account. At the Bank of Scotland a well-known application like Starmoney does not work, because a corresponding HBCI interface for support is missing.

NOTE!
Online banking at the German Bank of Scotland is comparatively straightforward. The number of functions is manageable. With the few products it also does not need more.

App with function payment by cell phone – How does it work??

Bank transfers cannot be executed without name, IBAN and BIC code. If you want to transfer money, you need some data. Not only does this make banking complicated, but many numbers also produce errors. British bank customers, including those of the Bank of Scotland, have it easier. All you need to transfer money is your smartphone and the mobile phone number of the money recipient.

There are several ways for British bank customers to send money from phone to phone. One solution is called "Paym". Here, money amounts of about 300 euros or 250 pounds can be sent via cell phone.

Bank of Scotland customers can do without an external application if they use the Bank of Scotland app. The Paym function Sending payments with only one cell phone number is already integrated in the app. The money arrives in the recipient's account the same day, usually taking only an hour or two.

This form of payment is not a European invention. In developing countries in Africa, the money-sending function via cell phone has been offered by major telecommunications providers for years now. There are many people without a bank account, to whom you can send money by phone and text message.

Conclusion on the Bank of Scotland app – mobile banking for UK banking customers

German customers of Bank of Scotland have to make do with online banking. There is no special banking app for smartphones. An app for Android or iPhone would be nice. Overall, this is also not a big disadvantage, because with only two products (call money and car loan), this would be a bit too much luxury. There is no current account, which means there is no need for general banking transactions such as transfers or direct debits.

The post Use the bank of scotland app for iphone and android appeared first on Jhcolorpowdercoating.

When Harry is first introduced as the boy who lived, it's not entirely clear what kind of wizard he's going to become – and for much of the series, he questions himself and his choices. Of course, fans know that eventually he becomes a young man who makes the right decisions and saves the wizarding world … and from the beginning he makes good decisions.

Of course, Harry also makes some bad decisions Harry Potter in this first part of – from trying to do things without the help of his friends (a recurring theme in the series), to putting a snake on his cousin (satisfying and random, but still not the best move). Overall, though, his decisions were pretty fantastic.

5 Asking Molly Weasley for help

One of Harry's defining moments is when he prefers Gryffindor to Slytherin when he is sorted out. As Dumbledore tells him later, it's choices, not skills, that show who someone really is. Harry's story would have been completely different if he had been sorted into Slytherin, and he might not even have been able to save the wizarding world!

CONNECTION: Every Christmas present Harry Potter got in the series ranks

Of course, this was also a spur-of-the-moment decision – Harry didn't know he was going to influence the Talking Hat's decision, and all he knew about the houses was a single comment about "evil witches and wizards" coming out of that house! Fortunately, it still turned out to be right.

3 According to memory

When Draco tries to take Neville's Remembrall and hide it on the roof (after Neville is injured and taken to the hospital wing by the teacher), Harry makes the brave decision to jump on his broom and chase Draco… flying experience! This was a risky decision, as it could have landed him in jail or in the infirmary himself.

However, it's that decision that actually got him on the Quidditch team – a great move for his early years, but also one that got him the flying practice he needed in the Triwizard Tournament, and many other times when it wasn't a game, but it was a matter of life and death.

2 Hermione to track on Halloween

Not many young wizards would have actively gone to rescue someone they didn't even like when a mountain troll is on the loose, but this isn't Harry! Instead, he decides to look for her on Halloween, knowing she has no idea about the troll and is in danger.

CONNECTION: 10 tips for those starting the Harry Potter franchise

This decision not only saved Hermione's life at the moment, but it later saved Harry's own life and probably the entire wizarding world as well. Without the friendship with Hermione that came out of that Halloween night, Harry would undoubtedly have been killed in the first few books! He relies on them all the time, and if he had not looked for them, everything would have been different.

1 Make Ron see the mirror

When Harry discovers Erised's mirror, he decides not to keep it for himself, but immediately wants Ron to show it to him. Of course, at the time he thinks the mirror is showing his own parents and he wants his friend to see it, but the decision to include Ron is important for so many reasons.

For one thing, knowing that Ron is seeing something else allows Harry to figure out what the mirror is doing. Arguably, Dumbledore would have told him anyway, but Ron (or at least his presence) can still take some credit here. This, of course, is of vital importance when he goes up against Voldemort for the stone. More than that, though, this is one of the times he and Ron really solidify their relationship – and like his relationship with Hermione, he needs that friendship to save his life over and over again.

The post Harry potter: harry’s best decisions in philosopher’s stone appeared first on Jhcolorpowdercoating.

A real estate loan is expensive. It has a fixed interest rate for years, even if the current rate is much lower.

The sog. Revocation joker can open possibilities to get rid of a long-running credit.

The consumer

Consumers have been able to revoke private loans since November 2002. This right of withdrawal was introduced so that consumers can reconsider such heavy decisions. The withdrawal period is usually 14 days. The exact revocation instructions must be part of the credit agreement. The legislator has provided a model text in this regard. The credit institutes took over this however only in the rarest cases this. Most banks have made their own modifications, which may well lead to ambiguity. These ambiguities now play into the hands of the customer. Courts have found that because of this, revocation can occur years after graduation. Experts call this phenomenon the revocation joker.

Property owners

Now, property owners who are already in financing could also benefit from the sharp drop in interest rates. With the revocation of the loan and a new conclusion of a financing subsequently, the interest burden can be reduced.

Due to a change in the law can now only be revoked credit agreements that were concluded after the 10. June 2010 were concluded. Older loans would have been available until 22.June 2016 must be contradicted.

Revocation

If a revocation is striven for the effort of a lawyer is recommended. Generally, a revocation can also be done without a lawyer. Experience has shown that lenders will only laugh tiredly at this and not accept it. Once a lawyer is involved, the chances of success increase.

The consequences of a revocation

A successful rescission sets in motion the reversal of the loan. This means that the credit institution must cancel all payments, both the disbursement of the loan number as well as the repayments made up to that point, including interest, etc. The customer's previous repayments would have to be repaid by the bank with interest. The loan agreement is cancelled and terminated.

So the customer would not only get rid of the higher interest rate, but would also get back his "credit" with interest. However, further financing may be necessary afterwards. In this case, this circumstance should be prevented from being recalled by u.a. Finds a better offer to complete a renewal of funding.

A revocation can u.U. even if the loan agreement has been extended in the meantime; loans that have already been settled can also be revoked in retrospect.

Cost risk

It should be noted, however, that there is a certain cost risk for the client. The lawyer wants to be paid and, if necessary. court costs are added. To keep these costs within bounds, it is worth checking in advance whether the loan is generally subject to a right of cancellation. Legal aid or a legal aid funder can also significantly reduce costs.

The post The revocation joker appeared first on Jhcolorpowdercoating.

Federal and state governments help with support programs for retraining and continuing education

However, the lowest income groups can rarely afford cost-intensive further training. Conversely, well-trained professionals regularly take part in further training and can thus constantly expand their income and competence. The federal government and the states have long recognized this and provide constructive assistance for further training courses. To this end, it offers various support programs for retraining.

Retraining and continuing education – paid and subsidized learning for all

Those who would like to use the professional pillar of continuing education for themselves can take advantage of one of the numerous funding opportunities for this purpose. This means that the competence to be acquired is not rewarded with a higher salary only after the training has been completed, but already while one is still in school. The best offers come from the federal government. But the federal states also offer suitable support programs. The latter are particularly interesting if you do not meet the requirements for a federal funding program.

Funding opportunities – this is how you get paid for your retraining

In former times one got a present for a good note in the report, today one gets a promotion for lifelong learning. Here are some examples of funding and support measures that you can take advantage of in the event of retraining or further education. Information on this can also be obtained from the branches of the Federal Employment Agency and the local employment and job centers.

These funding opportunities for retraining are available

Support for the gifted – anyone who is under 25 and can prove a grade point average of at least 1.9 in a primary or school education is eligible for a one-time
Subsidies of up to 5.100 Euro calculate. The support program is suitable, for example, for women on maternity leave and those doing civilian service.

Education premium – this federal subsidy is suitable for all employed persons whose weekly working time is 15 hours and annual salary is 20.000 euros does not exceed. For married couples, the upper earnings limit is 40.000 euro. The education premium can also apply for mothers and fathers in the parental leave. For retirees, the subsidy is available if they have a part-time job. Up to 50 percent of the retraining costs are reimbursed, up to a maximum of 500 euros.

Education voucher – anyone who is unemployed or threatened by unemployment can apply for this type of support. The threat of unemployment is broadly defined here. This includes all those who work in an occupation for which they have not been adequately trained. The education voucher is issued by the Federal Employment Agency. It can be redeemed at the educational institution, which must have a qualification according to AZAV.

Advancement scholarship – retraining through further education, which often succeeds with additional university studies. In addition to the sound training at a university or college, participants benefit from a 100 percent subsidy. Those who study full-time receive a monthly support payment plus money for learning materials; those who study part-time receive an annual one-time payment.

Bafog and Meister-Bafog – the state grants a loan here, of which around 30 percent is assessed as a subsidy. Thus only the remainder, after completed training, must be paid back to the state. Repayment can be flexible and is subject to agreement between the government and the beneficiary.

Soldiers' Pension Act – the German Armed Forces also operate an occupational support service.
Here u. a. the civilian benefit of additional and secondary education is ensured when leaving military service. All servicemen and servicewomen can benefit from this program.

The post Funding opportunities for retraining appeared first on Jhcolorpowdercoating.

Choosing the right bank is an important decision that will affect your financial life for years to come. When deciding on a bank, there are many factors to consider – from account maintenance fees to customer service. In this article, we will introduce you to the different types of banks in Germany and give you tips on how to find the perfect bank for you

Types of banks in Germany

In Germany, there are two main types of banks: traditional banks with branches and online banks. Each type has its own advantages and disadvantages. Traditional banks usually have higher costs for operating branches, but offer more personalized customer service and a range of other services such as credit cards and mortgages.

Online banks, on the other hand, usually have lower overhead costs, which they pass on to customers through lower or no account maintenance fees (such as N26, Openbank or C24). However, they don't offer face-to-face customer service or physical branches, which can be a disadvantage for some customers who need more support or access to cash withdrawals without ATMs or card issuers

Account management fees

One of the most important factors you should consider when choosing your bank is the account maintenance fees or "administration fees" that some banks charge monthly in addition to other banking services such as overdrafts and direct debits. Many German online banks such as N26, Openbank and C24 are free and don't require minimum deposits.

So it's worth looking around before you decide on a provider. When comparing the fees of different providers, you should also consider additional services such as debit cards, overdrafts and customer service before making your final decision

Debit cards and overdrafts: another factor you should look for when choosing a bank is whether it offers debit cards (also known as EC/Maestro cards) that allow you to make purchases in stores as well as online without incurring unnecessary fees, such as.B. Non-refundable fees for international transactions or ATM withdrawals abroad.

Also, some banks offer overdraft facilities that allow you to borrow money up to a certain amount. Make sure there are no hidden fees for an overdraft, though.

Customer service

It's also worth paying attention to how good the customer service is in case you run into problems using your new account – after all, no one wants their money sitting in an inaccessible account due to poor support. Look out for positive reviews from existing customers on Trustpilot or Google Reviews (as these are often more reliable than reviews on providers' websites).

It's also worth checking for contact options such as phone, email support, etc. To ask, so you know how quickly you can expect help if something goes wrong

Conclusion

It's not easy to find the perfect bank, but if you consider account maintenance fees, debit cards and overdrafts, as well as customer service, you can narrow down your search significantly.

Ultimately, you'll need to weigh which factors are most important to you personally before choosing a provider – good luck.

The post At which bank are the account management fees most favorable? appeared first on Jhcolorpowdercoating.