• The United Nations has declared the United States as the fifth best country in the world to live, after Norway and Australia, Switzerland and the Netherlands due to their excellent indicators of quality of life in general. The UN classification known best countries to live, also known as the Human Development Index and is developed based on an annual survey that assesses the social and economic welfare of some 187 countries. United States stands in qualifying in third place for access to education, socioeconomic welfare and quality of life in general, among other factors.

• United States of America is one of the classic immigration countries in the world. It has a long tradition of receiving foreign which has created the most multicultural and diverse planet, where different types of races, traditions and cultures intermingle society.

• It is known as the “land of opportunity” because of its commitment to free enterprise and its respect for civil, political and economic freedoms.

• From its origins as a nation, is a country that has openly promoted the entry of foreigners. It is the largest immigrant-receiving country in the world (both legal and illegal), so is the first choice of those who want to emigrate from their country of origin.

• After breaking with Britain in 1776, the United States became the first modern democracy with the adoption of its constitution in 1789. After the bloody civil war (1861-1865) achieved the abolition of slavery, recognition and adoption in its constitution of equality, freedom and individual rights to all its inhabitants.

• It is considered one of the most powerful nations in the world because of its political system mature and democratic, its military power and, most importantly, the enormous global influence on the geopolitical and cultural contexts. This advantage is very attractive to citizens seeking healthy political climates, where democratic institutions are respected and the civil, political and economic rights of individuals are guaranteed.

• The United States is the largest and most important in the world economy. However, currently experiencing a significant decline in their economic activity , with increased rates of unemployment, high levels of debt, decline in industrial activity and slowing of growth of GDP of the nation.

• Despite the slow recovery from the economic crisis experienced in 2008 , the United States remains for many the symbol of capitalist strength: it is the largest importer of goods in the world, as well as oil, and is the third most important in oil production. It has the world’s largest proven reserves of coal (22.6% of the world total) is the fourteenth largest reserves of oil and the sixth country with the largest proven natural gas reserves. It also has huge tracts of fertile areas devoted to agriculture and crops and remains a leader in technological innovation.

• Its geographical location close to Latin America, allowing a more accessible and economic mobilization between countries, in case you have to return.

• The Latinos and Spanish speakers are the largest group of immigrant origin and influential in the country. The Spanish language is present in virtually all major states of the country, in all visual and informative demonstrations. A significant number of Spanish-speaking communities, established and well organized, which will make the integration process easier.

• Being English-Spanish bilingual is considered a key advantage when competing in the labor market, especially for positions in the service industry and customer. In states where there are high percentages of Spanish-speaking population, many public and private services are offered in both languages.

• It offers good prospects for newcomers with ambition and initiative immigrants. However, due to the economic recession passes, finding work can be difficult. However, it remains an important labor market.

• Having a tract of land so vast, with a choice of 50 different states, you can choose the climate ideal place to live, according to the needs of everyone.

Should visit the forums to learn about the experiences of others who have already decided to emigrate to the United States.

Spring Break is right around the corner. And if you haven’t decided where you’re going yet we decided to give you a hand. We have done the research for you and here is our list of the best places to spend an unforgettable Spring Break.
Mexico
If you have the funds head on down Mexico way for a Spring Break you will never forget. Cancun is the number one party destination south of the border and a long term favorite for spring breakers. Those who come here have long days of sunbathing to look forward on some of the world’s best beaches. Evenings are spent is one of the great clubs. Another reason why it’s such a good choice for Spring Break is its location. From Cancun you can head inland to check out the Mayan ruins or south to the stunning beaches at Tulum. If you want a calmer Spring Break but still want to go to Mexico head to the Pacific side and Pueto Vallarta. There is loads of nightlife here and you can indulge in the Mexican culture. Sayulita in the north of Mexico is a beach town with a chilled out, hippie vibe where surfing is a big attraction.
Florida
Panama City Beach is oftentimes referred to as the Spring Break capital, and it’s easy to see why. It’s one of the best beaches in the world; period and boasts 27 miles of awesome white sand to laze or play on. There is plenty of partying here too as it has some of THE hottest clubs on the planet.
Las Vegas
Looking for a Spring Break that’s a bit different and won’t cost a lot? Head to the Nevada desert. Some of the world’s most luxurious hotels have some amazing deals over Spring Break as it their quiet time. So why not grab a bargain and see the famous sights of Vegas at the same time?
Puerto Rico
If Spring Break in the Caribbean is more your bag then head to the party island of Puerto Rico. The best bit is those who don’t have a passport can head south and party their week away under the Caribbean sun. Whether you are on the main island or one of the smaller ones which make up the archipelago you are in for a Spring Break of epic proportions in Puerto Rico.
Dominican Republic
Another Caribbean Spring Break favorite. Punta Cana ticks all the boxes. Designed for an all inclusive, luxurious experience, most of the resorts have there own clubs and bars. This means a short walk from pool to club once the sun sets. There are some great package deals around for this Spring Break which includes trips to the nearby islands. You can also take part in some awesome water sports or just recover from the night before by the pool.
Lake Havasu
If your idea of the best Spring Break is dancing and drinking in a desert oasis then you need to head to Arizona! Lake Havasu could well be your dream Spring Break destination. The weather is scorching and with a combo if desert sands and a cool lake this is the perfect spot for really letting loose and creating a stack of Spring Break memories.
South Padre Island
While Texas may not instantly spring to mind when you think of top places for a Spring Break, San Padre island is forging itself quite a rep as one rocking US Spring Break destination. This gorgeous island is packed with long beaches of pure white sand, guaranteed sunshine and more bars and clubs than anyone needs to be kept happy on their Spring Break.

Long considered one of our most reliable investments, the price of gold rises and falls faster than any share price. Many cashed their gold in and amassed a fortune when the price shot up a couple of years ago. When it dropped again people once again heavily invested in it. So whether you are looking to invest in the gold market, wondering how the value of your current haul will fare or wondering if its worth cashing in, we have looked at what the experts predict will happen to the price of gold in 2015.

The biggest movement happened only last week. The crisis talks involving the bailout of Greece saw the price of gold start to climb again on Wednesday February 25th. Only the day before when the problems in Greece had again made world headlines the price had fallen below $1200 per ounce. The rise is attributed to the talks reducing the demand for hedge investments against the country’s economic turmoil.

In January when the UBU and the LBMA issued their forecasts they both predicted that the price of gold would remain relatively flat during 2015. The LBMA, London Bullion Market Association, expected gold prices to remain at an average of $1211 per ounce, with the trading range falling in between $1085 – $1356 over the year. The average differed between forecasters. The lowest came from Credit Agricole who predicted an average of $950. The highest came from Sharps Pixley with $1321.

The USB lowered their 2015 gold price forecast citing the low oil price as its main reason. Their prediction doesn’t leave much leeway as they reckon it will average out at $1190 – $1200. Of course nobody can make true predictions as oftentimes things rear their ugly heads which nobody considered. Nobody expected Greece to return to the headlines in February so all predictions shouldn’t be taken as cast in stone.

The HSBC raised its 2014 gold price prediction in January 2015 from an average of $1175 to $1235. They backed this up by citing that geopolitical fears and the strong dollar would boost the status of gold as a safe haven for investors. Their optimism has been slammed by some but then again it really is just falling in line with all the other predictions so, you know. It’s not as if they are the only one who has raised their gold prediction either. Normura also raised their year on year forecast from $1200 to $1460 per ounce.

In short, no massive peaks or troughs are expected over the rest of the year. Those looking to invest in gold in 2015 should look on it as a long term investment not a way of making a quick buck. If you had been hoping to offload some gold this year then your best best is to hang onto to it for a bit longer. Then again, if you’ve had it a long time and got your gold when it was cheap then you could probably make yourself a tidy profit if it hit $1300 this year.

As we saw last week the price of gold can change daily so keeping an eye on it is vital wherever you stand investment wise. Predictions are exactly that. Nobody actually knows where gold will go in 2015. If the price should suddenly plummet then buy, buy, buy. If it rockets sell, sell, sell.

If you are planning a trip to Walt Disney World then you are probably trying to figure out when is the best time of year to travel. There are numerous factors you have to take into consideration here. Orlando is the world’s most popular holiday destination and oftentimes can be so overcrowded its not so enjoyable. Here is our handy guide to ensuring your trip to Walt Disney World is an enjoyable as possible.

Heat

While those living in other US states will be used to heat, the Florida humidity is something else. If you live in a northern state where humidity is just a word in a dictionary then plan your trip for late fall or winter. Those who haven’t experienced humidity of the level Florida offers have no idea how energy draining and tiring it is. If you are looking at the fact that June-October is Hurricane season you should bear in mind one hasn’t hit Florida for a decade. That said, you may want to err on the side of caution, just in case.

Crowds

Unless you are happy to spend most of the time standing in queues for rides and to get something to eat then avoid Easter, July, August, Thanksgiving and the Christmas holidays. The sheer volume of visitors that descend on Walt Disney World at this time of year have to be seen to be believed, and fighting your way through them ain’t much fun. Staying together in a family group is also very difficult so aim for quieter times of the year; January, February, September and October.

Entrance Fees

In order to get the best deals for your entrance tickets you should always get them off of the Internet. By doing it this way, and in as far advance as you can you can grab some awesome deals. Some around at the moment include 7 days for the price of 4, free kids and loads more. Check out some of the reputable sites offering tickets for Walt Disney World and grab some real bargains.

Accommodation

By visiting Walt Disney World outside of peak times you not only get accommodation at great prices but also have more choice. Whether you want to actually stay on the park or elsewhere in Orlando the quiet times mentioned above offer the best deals. Even though it’s only a month later you will pay around half the price for a room in September than you would in August. Plus, owners have loads of deals on to attract visitors at peak times; making your dollar go way further.

Taking all of the above into consideration the conclusion is that September is the best month to visit Walt Disney World. While it’s still hot the humidity has dissipated. The crowds are low, accommodation is cheap and there are some great accommodation deals. A trip to any Disney resort should be remembered for the fun you had there and not needing another vacation to get over it.

If you don’t believe us have a look for yourself. You will see the difference in prices is quite staggering, and the lower volume of visitors allows you to get more out of your trip thanks to the lack of queues. By planning your trip carefully you can save yourself a lot hassle and a whole wad of cash.

An evocative question that has hung around for years and is easily answered; depending on whether you’re blue or red of course. In our two-party political system you will be one of the other, or treat as an alien for daring to have an independent opinion. Anyways, getting back to Obama, why has be been called the worst president in our history when you consider what has gone before him?

A reporter from the Washington Post said last year that Obama was even worse that Nixon. Despite the lack of Obamagate, although there’s still time I guess, this guy went on to list everything that was wrong with Obama and what had gone wrong with our country since he has been at the helm. While Nixon never started a war, unlike Mr Bush, he was guilty of impeachment and forced to resign from office. So what crimes has Obama committed to be classed as more of a bad guy than RN?

The duopoly that is the US political system becomes harder to grasp every time an election rolls around. While these powerful forces wage war on each other there are many secret collusions go on behind closed doors. Is this what makes so many presidents unpopular; the public’s confusion? We all know by know that what a presidential candidate promises and actually delivers are a million miles apart, ans many American tycoons are quick to point out.

Take T. Boone Pickens for example. The energy tycoon has openly stated that what he is the most worried about is the lack of leadership. He believed Obama is the worst president ever and that this will be determined before he leads office. Pickens went onto state that Jimmy Carter is such a fan as he doesn’t seem so bad now thanks to Obama. There is one glaring question nobody seems prepared to give a solid answer to however; if Obama is as bad as he’s made out to be how did he get a second shot at it?

The people like him; simple as. Those Americans who vote in presidential elections saw him as a better bet than Mitt Romney. Whether this was a ‘better the devil you know’ scenario or they really believed Obama was the best man for the job is the subject of many an online debate. There was something about Obama that made him popular with the people who mattered. Set aside the fact he’s the first black president. Or the fact he’s the first one to be born in Hawaii.

Do a simple internet search of ‘what has Obama got wrong’ and you will be swamped by results. There are lists upon lists of everything from Cash for Clunkers to the fact that the amount of Americans on disability benefits is now approaching the population of Cuba. The billions of dollars the American taxpayers lost when he bailed out Chrysler and GM doesn’t sit well either. It doesn’t help none that Chrysler isn’t even American anymore and is owned by Fiat.

On the plus side he rid the world of Bin Laden, toppled Gaddafi, improved school meals and, so far, has avoided scandal. There are more pluses of course but whether they are actually pluses or negatives once again depends on the color of your tie. Whether we would have been better off under Mitt Romney is something we’ll never know, and who will step into Obama’s shoes is also a mystery. Whoever it is will be over the moon that they will be taking over from someone so unpopular. However they should also remember that everyone loved Obama in 2008….

So, you’re thinking about buying a shiny new automobile? Whilst there are many factors that will dictate the price tag that you’re facing, you may not have considered timing as one of them. However far from having no impact upon the average price that you’ll pay, it instead makes for a pretty complicated landscape of fluctuating prices. Here we provide you with some top tips when hunting down an automotive bargain and fill you in on the very best (and worst) times of year to make that purchase.

The best time of year to buy a new car

The busiest months in terms of the number of price drops seen within the automotive industry are May, April and January (during the post-Christmas sales). However the most promising months in as far as the percentage drops in price are November, December and September.

Hurricanes, tornado, earthquake or blizzard? If it’s safe… go get that car

In and around times of natural threats car prices can see significant decreases in price. So if it’s safe, get yourself down to your local dealer for that must purchase car.

Bikes: Price drops of around 30%!

For bikers by far the best time to purchase your shiny new addition to the garage is during the colder of months; so choose November, December or January.

Choosing your timing carefully

As well as the right time of year to purchase, we also have the following tips for choosing the right time of day too.

Shop at the beginning in of the week

Shopping at the beginning of the week ensures that you benefit from the salesperson’s undivided attention. This can mean that you can haggle your bargain buy down without the distraction of many other sales that await your sales person.

Waiting until the end of the day

If you know exactly what car you want then it pays to wait right until the end of the day; salespeople are generally far less motivated to negotiate at length when their home time awaits.

Getting a deal on outgoing models

Car models generally take their final bow during late summer/the beginning of fall. If your car model is soon to finish production then choosing to purchase at this time of year can see you benefiting from discounts of up to 15%.

The very worst time of the year to buy a car

It makes sense that if there’s a best time of the year to purchase, that there also has to be a time that suffers from price jumps that will see you paying over the odds. So when is this mystical time? Well the worst times of the year to purchase a car is June, followed up closely by July and September.

Convertibles: Prices hikes of up to 20%!

For those looking to purchase a convertible must avoid months are June, July and August, when there can be price hikes of up to 20%.

Obamacare… it’s a term that has seemed to have split America. Whilst many regard this as a ground-breaking change within the health care systems of America, others regard it as a negative term and point in US history that will define and ultimately degrade Obama’s achievements whilst in office. So what’s the truth behind this political hot potato? And, when all is said and done, is Obamacare good for Americans?

Defining ‘Obamacare’

Far from being an official policy, the term ‘Obamacare’ was very much made by the media as a pretty derisive term for what is officially known as the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. This policy, which was signed into American law in 2010, implements various important factors that offered Americans new benefits, rights and protections in relation to healthcare provisions. This policy also ensured that there was a newly instated and federally regulated Health Insurance open enrolment. This policy then incorporated and improved Medicaid.

The Criticisms of Obamacare

Whilst the public opinion of Obamacare is that it is generally a positive policy, there was a relative wavering of support during the 2009 and 2010 televised election debates. That said, conservatives within America have always opposed it in relatively strong terms, with many criticising the shift towards the left (as was pre-empted, given that the conservatives naturally lean towards the right).

Specifically criticism of Obamacare has been most strongly demonstrated by the many state governors who have opposed the bill and refused, point blank, to instate it. This includes Florida Governor Rick Scott, who famously declared that following the Supreme Court ruling that “I will not implement this law. Florida will not implement Obamacare.”

Other Conservatives have voiced opposition due to the removal of public option, the taxes imposed upon Medical Device Makers and the controversial issues that surrounding the meeting between Republicans and Democrats whereby the Reform committee literally changed the locks to, as conservatives argue, remove Republicans from the debates.

The arguable benefits of Obamacare

Obamacare arguably presents many new rights to Americans and for those members of society who are poorest or otherwise most vulnerable, it has been seen by many to offer a much needed answer to the issues that surround a completely, or largely privatised healthcare system.

Specifically those who are supporters of Obamacare state that the benefits include:

– Newly instated Insurance marketplaces that will allow shoppers to fairly compare insurance policies that offer insurance coverage.

– A cost assistance package that is available to all.

– Medicare eligibility that has been expanded to all 26 states to 135% federal poverty level; this means, in figures that today there are millions more Americans that have access to health care.

– Large employers must now offer coverage to all full time workers by 2015/2016 (although critic’s argue that this has led to an increase in zero hour contracts and businesses who specifically manoeuvre the system by taking on more part time employees).

– Insurance companies are no longer able to remove their commitment to their policy holder through applications that had errors, or a change in health status.

In conclusion we must ask whether there is, or ever can be a definite answer as to whether Obamacare is good for Americans. This is then very much within a realm of politics, as many are, that are completely subjective and dependent upon a person’s own political viewpoint. Whilst many will declare Obamacare as a step in the right direction, with an ultimate aim of social health care that is accessible by all, others will regard it as a policy implemented without the consensus of America.

It’s that time of year again and Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching. With this annual declaration of appreciation for our other halves comes plenty of hand wringing at the thought of scouring the virtual online shopping shelves in search of the perfect gift. So to help you out we thought that we’d put together an essential guide for those who wish to avoid this year’s nightmare shopping; here are our top tips and ideas for you this year.

Gifts for him

Whilst traditionally it is thought that women are far more adept at gift choosing and buying, there are many who would argue that their annual battle between boring aftershaves and bottles of alcohol gets pretty tedious and less of a surprise year on year for their other halves. So here are a couple of suggestions for the special guy in your life.

DIY Coupon Book

Technically this little idea is for both guys and girls, however as we all know it can very often be men who are sometimes less than motivated around the home, a coupon book can then be seen as an official collection of home ‘Get out of Jail Free’ cards and treats. So either buy or make your own coupon book, this can be full of days out, breakfasts in bed and days off from chore duties.

Something a little romantic

Who says guys aren’t soft at heart? Well, surprisingly there are not so many who receive gifts on Valentines day that is genuinely heart felt or cutesy. So be sure to consider the more quirky of gifts, such as a ‘Where We Met’ book, a ‘ten things I love about you’ scroll box or a CD that is made up of important songs to you both.

Gifts for her

Jewellery (or rather a gift voucher for jewellery)

Jewellery is traditionally one of the most popular gifts for Valentine’s Day and when gotten right can be a completely gift winner that will last throughout the years. However, many men can be put off purchasing jewellery for their girlfriends or wives as they simply struggle to choose suitable items that they know their partner will love. To this end you shouldn’t feel afraid to be a little practical about things… a gift card for a jewellers will be far more appreciated than a ring or necklace that she says she loves but really finds hideous.

A pamper day

There are few, if any, women who don’t appreciate a little pampering. This task does need judgement however; do they like to go all out at the spa, or do they prefer a foot massage from someone they know (e.g. you?).

Gifts for either

A day full of treats or an evening out

Depending upon what stage of your relationship you’re at, you may find that this idea is either already an every week occurrence or, as the case may be for those who have been dating or married for years, a pretty cool idea. Either way make time for a special day out doing the things that you usually don’t have time for.

A weekend away

There are few things appreciated as a little time away, so this year why not consider whisking your loved one away for a long relaxing weekend in a hotel? What makes this idea even more perfect is that this year’s Valentine’s Day falls on a weekend!

We hope these few ideas have helped you out a little this year and remember you know your partner better than anyone else, so don’t be afraid to use your own instincts when choosing something different this year.

The interests that exist between Cuba and America have been established long before independence and must be considered within the context of America attempting to sell off Cuba to the Spanish Empire, and not just once, but at numerous times. However beyond this founding history let us ask and explore where we are today.

The relative recent breakdown of relations

Whilst relations between Cuba and America briefly advanced following the Cold War the George Bush presidency saw relations deteriorate once more. This stemmed from Bush’s election campaign where much was promised in the way of opposition to the government of Fidel Castro and the supporting of embargo restrictions. Once in power however Bush began the expansion of travel restrictions, with the treasury issuing policies that further deterred the illegal travel to the islands.

These relations further broke down when George Bush was re-elected and he infamously declared that Cuba was one of the last few remaining “outposts of tyranny”; which culminated in heightened tensions following the Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security Affairs accusations that Cuba was holding biological weapons.

Relations today

After such a lengthy history of disputes and political hot potatoes today US – Cuba relations remain relatively difficult, this is despite the stepping down of Fidel Castro. That said, Obama has overseen improvements as compared to the years that immediately proceeded his presidency. This has seen Obama relax policies that impacted upon Cuba, with him also changing travel and trade restrictions for the benefit of Cuba. This was then replicated by efforts from Cuba by the Cuban president Raul Castro. Castro declared, that his government would be willing to hold talks with the US government and that they are further willing to “discuss anything”. This was quite remarkable given the chequered history of relations between the US and Cuba.

The current state of play

The situation between US and Cuba can very much be demonstrated by the secret meeting between Cuba and US officials which was actually hosted and overseen by the Pop in Vatican City. This culminated in a framework for ongoing relations improvements, which aims eventually to end the longstanding embargo with the instalment of the respective embassies placed in Havana and Washington. 

When answering the question of who will win, or at the very least gain the upper hand, in US/Cuba relations it seems that the most relevant answer is to consider an ongoing approach of mutual respect and a focus upon strengthening relations, rather than going head to head, on both behalf’s.

However, for some time yet to come it seems unlikely, ultimately, that there will ever be, or should there be, any singular winner from what is an ongoing history of complex and conflicted relations.

With the world economy picking up it seems that the house market is once again on the move, however with the amount of mortgages now being approved rising an important question to ask is whether buying a home, rather than renting, really is beneficial. In this blog article we take a look at the pros and cons of each and explain why buying may not always be preferable to renting.

Security – Buying Wins

In terms of security many presume buying a home to be the outright winner, however if ever learnt anything from the past few years it’s that having mortgage doesn’t always provide the security that many had hoped for. In fact, until a mortgage is completely paid off it can still be seen as a liability, rather than a comfort blanket of security. Renting on the other hand is relatively neutral. Consumers are protected by tenant laws, however the long term future of having a home as an investment is obviously missing.

Expense – Renting Wins

As far as renting or buying goes both can be comparable in terms of the rent versus the mortgage on the same size property. However this is only the case for as long as the housing markets remains stable, as has been seen once interest rates raise, so too do mortgage repayments. What’s more homeowners have far more responsibilities when it comes to the upkeep of their home, as well as paying for the relevant insurances to protect their investment. All things considered this then means that renting is far cheaper than buying.

Personalising your home – Buying wins, mostly

When renting the majority of landlords will have stringent rules in place that most likely prohibit tenants from decorating at all. Quite obviously for this reason buying wins in this category.

Freedom – Renting wins

Having a mortgage is a reposnibisilty. It mean that moving is no longer a matter of handing in your notice and most certainly for the first few years you’ll have to stay in the same place merely to begin repayments on your actual home, rather than just paying the interest. For this reason renting wins hands down in terms of the freedom it affords tenants.

Cohabitating when something goes wrong – Renting wins

Whether you’re living with a friend or a partner it’s never nice when things go wrong and you either break up or fall out. If you have a mortgage however and this happens then you’re going to be looking at far more complex a situation than if you were renting.

So in conclusion, there really is no clear winner between renting and buying a home. Whilst on the one hand renting provides freedom as compared to an intimidating liability, on the other hand becoming a home owner does provide security in the future. It is then very much a matter of personal circumstances and what may be best for one may certainly not be best for another. One thing is for certain however if we’re to avoid the mistakes of the past, consumers and financial institutions may need to think more carefully before jumping into an agreement that practically lasts a lifetime.