Planes, train, and no automobiles

[Piper.Classique]

Originally Posted by meleagertoo

Apparently one of the epic long train journeys is from Istanbul to Tehran, 30hrs or so including crossing Lake Van on a train ferry - fare ridiculously low, $30 first class sleeper cabin or summat. In happier political times that'd be a stunner, and I'm told Tehran is a fabulous city and the people extremely hospitable to foreign visitors - all too aware of their reputation abroad and determined to prove it wrong.

Yes, the train to Tehran is now running again. I've given it considerably thought but would if I did it get off after the lake crossing rather than go on into Iran. It's still on the agenda as a possibility but I would have to miss out on Roumania or I would run out of dog-sitter time.

[Piper.Classique]

Originally Posted by justapax

If you have been resident for five years and speak French, you can apply for French nationality. That gives you freedom of movement and employment in the EU. I'm an expert on acquiring desirable nationalities, PPRuNe doesn't encourage advertising, so please PM me if you have any queries about becoming French and thus EU.

There is a language test, and you have to affirm fealty to the French Republic, but that's it. The fees are not excessive, I can check for you if you like. Some fluent francophones fail the language test, just find another examiner who is more sympathetic on another day.

The standard is quite high, I have French A-level (many years ago) and I don't think I would pass. It's much stricter than the test in Quebec.

Yes, thank you. I do know about this and would qualify. I just can't bear all the paperwork involved. Besides, if I can't vote then the gubmint is not my fault. I don't want to work, I like being retired.