Jean Galea

Health, Wealth, Relationships, Wisdom

What Snow Chains Do You Need for the Pyrenees in Spain and Andorra?

Published: Leave a Comment

Every winter I travel to Andorra or Spanish ski resorts, and an essential part of my travel gear are snow chains or snow socks.

Here’s my research and recommendations on the subject. When it comes to safety and security, I always go for the best even if it means spending a bit more money. For this purpose, I chose to focus on Michelin’s offerings, as it is a reputable company in the tyre business.

Whichever choice you make, be sure to include long arm-covering gloves and a towel and some wet wipes to help you stay clean when you install the chains. I also recommend having a snow scraper. The Michelin snow scraper is a simple yet effective tool that is designed to remove snow and ice from your car’s windshield and windows. The snow scraper features a sturdy plastic handle with a wide, curved blade that is designed to efficiently remove snow and ice from your car’s windows without scratching the glass.

Ok, let’s get into the options.

Snow Socks – Michelin SOS Grip Evolution

Michelin offers a range of snow socks that are designed to provide additional traction on snow and ice. The snow socks are made from a patented textile material that is highly durable and long-lasting. Here are some of the features and benefits of Michelin’s snow sock range:

  1. Easy to Install: Michelin snow socks are easy to install and remove, and they can be fitted in just a few minutes. The snow socks stretch over the tire and are secured in place using a tensioning system that ensures a snug and secure fit.
  2. Improved Traction: Michelin snow socks provide improved traction on snow and ice, which can help drivers stay safe and avoid accidents. The snow socks are designed to grip the road surface, providing better traction and stability when driving on slippery surfaces.
  3. Quiet and Comfortable: Michelin snow socks are designed to be quiet and comfortable, even at high speeds. They are made from a soft and flexible material that does not create excessive noise or vibration when driving.
  4. Durable and Long-Lasting: Michelin snow socks are made from a patented textile material that is highly durable and long-lasting. The material is resistant to tears, abrasions, and punctures, which ensures that the snow socks will provide reliable performance for multiple seasons.
  5. Easy to Store: Michelin snow socks are compact and lightweight, which makes them easy to store in the trunk of your car. They come with a storage pouch that can be used to keep the snow socks clean and dry when not in use.

Overall, Michelin’s range of snow socks provides drivers with an effective and convenient solution for driving on snowy and icy roads. They offer improved traction, easy installation, and long-lasting performance, making them a popular choice for many drivers.

I have used their SOS9 grip for my tyres and have been impressed by how easy it is to install them and remove them. Always keep a big bag with you for storing them as they will be dripping wet and very dirty when you take them off. You’ll want to chuck them into a washing machine for a rinse and dry them out before you put them into long-term storage. The fact that they retain a bunch of water in them after you remove them is the main disadvantage, together with their lack of durability/robustness compared to other solutions.

I was able to get both snow socks on within 5 minutes.

However, if you’re going for a quick trip or two once a year, these are the perfect thing to have in your boot to get you out of a tough spot if/when needed.

Price: around €80

Composite Snow Chains – Michelin Easy Grip Evolution

The Michelin Easy Grip Evolution is a type of snow chain that is designed to provide extra grip and traction on snowy or icy roads. It is designed to be easy to install and remove, and it does not require any special tools or equipment.

The Easy Grip Evolution snow chain is made of composite materials and features a central snow grabber that provides additional traction and grip on the road surface. The chains are designed to fit snugly over the tire and are secured in place using a tensioning system that ensures a tight and secure fit.

One of the key features of the Michelin Easy Grip Evolution is its compatibility with a wide range of vehicles, including passenger cars, SUVs, and vans. It is also designed to be durable and long-lasting, with reinforced links and a flexible design that helps to prevent damage to the tire or wheel.

In addition, the Easy Grip Evolution is designed to be easy to store and transport. It comes with a storage case that can be easily carried in the trunk of your car, and it can be quickly installed in just a few minutes.

Snow socks are designed to provide moderate traction on snowy or icy roads, while the Easy Grip Evolution snow chains are designed to provide more significant traction and grip. This makes the Easy Grip Evolution a better choice for drivers who live in areas with more extreme winter weather conditions.

Another difference is their durability. The Easy Grip Evolution snow chains are generally more durable and long-lasting than snow socks, which may wear out more quickly and need to be replaced more frequently.

The Easy Grip Evolution chains will take up more space to store and take longer to install and remove compared to the snow socks, but they also do away with the water retention issue when storing them immediately after use, since they have a much smaller surface area in contact with the road and ice/snow.

For those who are used to snow chains and who make frequent tips to snowy areas, I recommend these over the SOS snow socks, as the latter are meant for emergency situations only rather than regular use.

Price: around €100-120

Michelin Fast Grip

The Michelin Fast Grip is a type of snow chain that is designed to provide additional traction on snowy or icy roads. The Fast Grip is made of a composite material and features a diamond pattern that is designed to provide extra grip and traction on the road surface.

One of the key features of the Michelin Fast Grip is its ease of use. The chains are designed to be easy to install and remove, and they can be fitted to the tire without moving the vehicle. This makes the Fast Grip a convenient solution for drivers who need extra traction but do not want to spend a lot of time installing and removing chains.

Price: around €350-400

Other Considerations When Driving in Snow

If you live in snowy regions, you already know that a 4×4 with winter tyres is the best option. But what about the rest of us? There are many debates online about tyre choices, and whether it’s best to have a FWD or AWD vehicle.

To me, it’s clear that if you visit snowy areas frequently in winter, but actually live in a warmer area, it could be a good idea to equip your car with all-weather tyres. Then you can do away with the chains and there is no further work on your end. Another option is to have a set of winter tyres and another set of summer tyres. This is only an option if you have plenty of storage in your garage and don’t mind the hassle of changing your tyres once or twice a year.

When it comes to FWD vs AWD, while it is clear that AWD is a better option for offroad use and snowy conditions, it is much better to have a FWD vehicle equipped with winter tyres than an AWD vehicle equipped with summer tyres.

So there is no need to sell your FWD to buy an AWD, just decide on what strategy you want to use with tyres or chains and you’re set for your winter fun in the snow.

Whichever setup you have, be prudent on the road as icy and snowy conditions will always have some effect on your car’s handling, and more importantly, you can expect the unexpected from other vehicles, some of whose drivers are encountering these conditions for the first time and might not have equipped their cars in an adequate way.

Should Freelancers Set Up a Company in Estonia?

Published: Leave a Comment

Estonia has emerged as a popular destination for freelancers looking to set up their own companies. With its digital infrastructure and low-tax environment, Estonia offers a range of benefits for freelancers looking to establish their businesses.

In this article I want to take a look at why thousands of European freelancers have been setting up companies in Estonia in recent years, and whether this could be a good option for you.

Set up in Estonia with Xolo

Here are some of the top benefits for freelancers when setting up in Estonia. I’ve spoken to many freelancers who have taken the step, and the vast majority are happy with their setup.

  • Streamlined company formation process through Estonia’s e-Residency program, allowing entrepreneurs to set up a company in as little as 15 minutes.
  • Low tax environment with a flat tax rate of 20% for all income, including corporate income.
  • No minimum capital requirements for setting up a company, making it accessible for freelancers and small business owners.
  • Access to a range of digital services, including secure online banking and e-signatures, to streamline business operations.
  • Strong focus on innovation and entrepreneurship, with a vibrant startup ecosystem and a range of resources available to help businesses grow and scale.
  • Access to the European Union market through Estonia’s membership in the EU.
  • Strong legal framework and protection for investors, with a transparent and efficient business environment.
  • Low bureaucratic burden, with a range of government services available online.
  • Support for internationalization and global expansion, with a range of programs and resources available to help companies expand beyond Estonia.

Ease of Doing Business

One of the main benefits of setting up a company in Estonia is the ease of doing business. Estonia has streamlined its company formation process, allowing entrepreneurs to set up a company in as little as 15 minutes. This is thanks to the country’s e-Residency program, which allows entrepreneurs to establish a business in Estonia remotely, without needing to physically visit the country. This can be particularly beneficial for freelancers who work remotely and don’t have a physical presence in any one location (digital nomads).

Low Tax

Another benefit of setting up a company in Estonia is the low tax environment.

Estonia has a unique tax system that allows entrepreneurs to defer tax payments until profits are distributed as dividends, at which point they are taxed at 20%. Under this system, companies are not required to pay corporate income tax on their profits until they are distributed to shareholders as dividends.

This means that entrepreneurs can reinvest their profits in their business without being burdened by immediate tax payments. Additionally, when profits are distributed as dividends, they are subject to a lower tax rate than traditional income, which can further reduce the tax burden for entrepreneurs.

Furthermore, Estonia has no capital gains tax, which means that entrepreneurs can realize capital gains without being subject to additional tax payments. This can be particularly beneficial for entrepreneurs who are looking to sell their business or realize a return on their investment.

Easy Digital Services

Estonia also has a reputation for being a digitally advanced country, with a strong focus on innovation and entrepreneurship. This means that freelancers who establish companies in Estonia can benefit from a range of digital services, including secure online banking, e-signatures, and other tools that can help streamline their business operations. Additionally, Estonia has a vibrant startup ecosystem, with a range of accelerators, incubators, and other resources available to help freelancers grow and scale their businesses.

Some well-known startups from Estonia are Wise, Skype and Bolt.

Access to the EU Market

Setting up a company in Estonia can be a smart move for non-EU freelancers looking to sell their services and products in Europe. Estonia’s membership in the EU provides a gateway to the world’s largest single market, with over 500 million consumers. This can open up new opportunities for non-EU freelancers to reach new customers and expand their business operations.

Many non-EU freelancers encounter problems when invoicing European clients for various reasons, including being digital nomads and thus having no home base, or being based in a country that European countries regard as shady or downright blacklisted. These issues are solved once you set up in Estonia.

Competent Financial Professionals and Legal System

Estonia has a reputation for having a highly competent and skilled financial professional workforce. This is due in part to the country’s strong focus on education and innovation, which has helped to produce a steady stream of talented professionals in finance and accounting.

Moreover, Estonia’s legal system is known for being efficient and transparent, providing a stable and predictable business environment for entrepreneurs and freelancers. The country’s legal framework is designed to promote business growth and development, with a strong emphasis on protecting investors and ensuring a fair and competitive market. Additionally, Estonia’s legal system is backed by a well-developed infrastructure of legal professionals, including lawyers, notaries, and other experts, who can provide guidance and support to businesses navigating the legal landscape in Estonia. Overall, Estonia’s competent financial professionals and efficient legal system make it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs and freelancers looking to establish and grow their businesses in a stable and predictable environment.

Is it the Right Choice for You?

Setting up a company in Estonia can be a smart move for European freelancers looking to establish their businesses in a low-tax, digitally advanced environment. With its streamlined company formation process, low tax rates, and innovative business environment, Estonia offers a range of benefits for freelancers looking to take their businesses to the next level.

If you’re struggling with high taxes, too much bureacratic overhead, or access to the EU market, then it makes sense for you to look into Estonia as a possible base. In my view, it is currently the friendliest jurisdiction for freelancers who want to set up shop in Europe.

The one thing I always mention is that you should consult with a local tax lawyer before you make such a move. The biggest risk is that of being accused of profit shifting, which can occur if the entrepreneur uses their Estonian company to shift profits from one jurisdiction to another in order to minimize their tax liability. This can be a complex issue, and it’s important for entrepreneurs to understand the tax laws in their own country as well as in Estonia in order to ensure that they are operating within the bounds of the law. Some countries are known to be very strict about this, while others are more laxed, so it is extremely important to look into it before you go ahead with a move to Estonia.

If, on the other hand, you’re a digital nomad with no permanent tax residency in a particular country, things should be less risky for you and the move to Estonia would be much easier to justify.

For getting help to set up in Estonia, I recommend Xolo.

Xolo is a platform that can help entrepreneurs set up a company in Estonia quickly and easily. With Xolo, entrepreneurs can create and manage their Estonian company remotely, without needing to physically visit Estonia. This can be particularly beneficial for entrepreneurs who are residents of other countries or who work remotely and don’t have a physical presence in any one location.

Xolo offers a range of services to help entrepreneurs get their business up and running in Estonia. This includes assistance with the company formation process, help with opening a bank account, and access to a range of digital tools and resources to help manage business operations. Additionally, Xolo provides ongoing support and guidance to entrepreneurs, helping them navigate the complexities of doing business in Estonia and ensuring that they are operating within the bounds of the law.

If you are currently a resident of Malta, USA, Spain, or Portugal and want to look into the implications of such a move from the perspective of your local laws, I can connect you to my preferred lawyers.

Set up in Estonia with Xolo

My Hardware Setup

Last updated: Leave a Comment

With the new M2 processors introduced by Apple and their amazing performance, I’ve decided to switch around my hardware setup to be best suited to my lifestyle. Here’s what I have selected after doing my research.

Macbook Pro 16″ M2

This will be my main machine and will be used at home and at my coworking space/gym. I will also take it with me on longer term travel or trips where I know I will have the time to put in serious work.

The newest MacBook Pro 16″ M2 is a true powerhouse of a laptop that is sure to impress even the most demanding of users. With its powerful M2 chip, this laptop is capable of handling even the most complex tasks with ease. Whether you’re a professional video editor, a graphic designer, or just someone who needs a reliable laptop for everyday use, the MacBook Pro 16″ M2 is sure to exceed your expectations.

One of the standout features of this laptop is its stunning Retina display, which offers incredibly sharp and vibrant visuals. Whether you’re streaming your favorite movies or working on a design project, you can rest assured that everything will look absolutely stunning on this display. The keyboard is also a joy to type on, with its responsive keys and comfortable layout making typing for extended periods a breeze. And with up to 10 hours of battery life, you can work all day without having to worry about running out of juice.

Overall, the MacBook Pro 16″ M2 is an exceptional laptop that is sure to impress even the most discerning of users. With its powerful performance, stunning display, and comfortable keyboard, it’s the perfect choice for anyone who demands the very best from their technology. So if you’re in the market for a new laptop and want the best of the best, the MacBook Pro 16″ M2 is definitely worth considering.

Apple Studio Display

This will be my fixed display in my home office. It’s a great display that is a joy to work on. The Macbook Pro will be connected to it at home.

The main alternatives to the Studio Display are the LG 27MD5KL-B and the Dell UltraSharp U2720Q. The 32 inch version of the Dell is also a good option.

Note about 32 inch 4k displays: Some people may complain about font sizes on a 32-inch 4K display versus Apple’s 32-inch 5K display because of the difference in pixel density. The 5K display has a resolution of 5120 x 2880 pixels, which is higher than the 4K display’s resolution of 3840 x 2160 pixels. This means that the pixel density of the 5K display is higher, resulting in crisper and more detailed images, including text.

iPad Pro 12.9″

This will be my out-and-about machine, and will also be used for some reading and drawing activities. I’ll use it while traveling, going to cafes, and on other occasions where I might or might not have the opportunity to work. In such cases, if I get the chance to work I will typically be writing or drawing, two tasks that the iPad excels with when paired with the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil respectively.

Macbook Pro Stand

I will be using either the Satechi stand for holding the Macbook in closed mode (Twelve South Bookarc is a good alternative), or the Twelve South Curve.

Accessories

The Anker powerbank is great if you anticipate working for longer periods in places without a power connection, for example on some airlines, at airports, cafes, libraries etc. Having a powerbank can be great if you work in very popular places. If said places have areas with no power connection those will be the least popular and most likely to be free, so you’re more likely to find a space to work in.

Best Books for Kids

Last updated: 2 Comments

goodnight construction site

Reading to children from a young age is one of the best ways to develop their language skills, imagination, and love of books. I’ve spent an inordinate amount of time reading to my kids, as it was an integral part of their evening (and sometimes morning) routines.

I am a big believer in the power of books and reading, so it was something I did very gladly, although on many occasion I ended up sleeping myself with the book in my hand, after the umpteenth request of “one more book”.

Here are some of the favorite books that I’ve read time and again with my kids.

“Bizzy Bear” series by Benji Davies

The Bizzy Bear series of books, written and illustrated by Benji Davies, are a collection of interactive children’s books that are designed to encourage children to explore, play and learn. The books follow the adventures of a curious young bear named Bizzy as he goes on various activities such as going to the zoo, helping out at the fire station, and building a rocket.

The books are filled with bright, colorful illustrations and simple text that make them easy for young children to understand and relate to. Each book also includes interactive elements such as flaps to lift, wheels to turn and buttons to press, which makes it more engaging and fun for children to read. The books aim to develop children’s fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination and introduce them to different concepts such as counting, colors and shapes. They are a great way to encourage children to be curious and to explore the world around them.

“123 Count with Me” and “A is for Apple”

“123 Count with Me” is a children’s book designed to teach young children the concepts of counting and numbers. The book is filled with colorful illustrations and simple text that make it easy for children to understand and relate to the numbers and counting. The book is interactive and features different activities such as counting objects, matching numbers with corresponding quantities, and identifying numbers in different forms such as numerals and number words.

The book is part of a series of educational books that aims to teach children basic concepts in a fun and interactive way.

A is for Apple” is the other one we bought, and both were used extensively.

The series uses a combination of illustrations, simple text, and interactive elements to help children learn and retain the information. The book is a great tool for parents and educators to introduce children to the concept of numbers and counting and to help them develop the skills necessary for early math education. It’s a great way to introduce children to the world of numbers and to encourage them to develop an interest in math and problem-solving.

“The Very Hungry Caterpillar” by Eric Carle

It was first published in 1969 and has since become a classic and a staple in children’s literature. The story follows the journey of a very hungry caterpillar as it eats its way through a variety of foods before eventually turning into a beautiful butterfly. The book is known for its colorful, collage-style illustrations and simple, repetitive text that makes it easy for young children to follow along and understand the story.

The book teaches children about the life cycle of a butterfly, numbers, days of the week and healthy eating habits. The story is simple and easy for children to understand and the illustrations are visually appealing and engaging. The book is a great way to introduce children to new words and concepts, and to encourage them to develop a love of reading. It has been translated into over 60 languages and continues to be popular among children and parents around the world.

This wasn’t one of my personal favorites, but the kids liked it for an occasional read. It’s one of the most popular and recommended children’s books though.

“Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site” by Sherri Duskey Rinker

A children’s book that takes young readers on a journey through a construction site before bedtime. The story follows a group of hardworking construction vehicles as they say goodnight to the various parts of the site, such as the crane, cement mixer, and bulldozer. The book is filled with colorful illustrations that bring the construction site to life and make it easy for children to understand and relate to the story.

The repetitive text and rhyming words make it easy for young children to follow along and develop their reading skills. The book has a positive message about the importance of hard work and teamwork, while also promoting the idea of bedtime reading. This book is a perfect addition to any child’s library and a great way to introduce them to the world of construction and the hardworking vehicles that help build our communities.

There is a whole series of books around this theme, and I found most of them to be really good. My son surprised me at around 3 years of age by reciting the whole book by heart, which was an amazing experience for me and a testament to how much he loved this book.

“Tails” by Matthew Van Fleet

A book about different animals and their tails, it teaches children about the different shapes, sizes, and functions of tails in various animals. The book is filled with colorful illustrations and simple text that make it easy for young children to understand and relate to. The interactive elements in the book encourage children to explore and learn through play, making it a fun and engaging way to learn about animals and their body parts. The book is a great addition to any child’s library and is perfect for encouraging an early interest in science and the natural world.

“Oscar the Octopus”by Matthew Van Fleet

An interactive book which features different textures, flaps and movable parts that children can explore as they read the story. The book tells the story of Oscar, an octopus who lives in the ocean and explores the different sea creatures that he meets. The book is filled with colorful illustrations and simple text that make it easy for young children to understand and relate to.

The book aims to teach children about the different sea creatures and their characteristics and habitats. The interactive elements in the book encourage children to explore and learn through play, making it a fun and engaging way to learn about the ocean and the animals that live there. The book is a great addition to any child’s library and is perfect for encouraging an early interest in science and the natural world.

“Monkey Puzzle” by Julia Donaldson

“Monkey Puzzle” is a children’s book written by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler. It was first published in 2002 and is a part of the Julia Donaldson’s collection. The story follows a monkey who loses his mother in the jungle and is helped by a butterfly to find her again. The book is known for its vivid illustrations and simple, repetitive text that makes it easy for young children to follow along and understand the story.

The book is a great tool to develop children’s language and vocabulary, it also teaches children about the importance of family, love and self-reliance. The story is easy to follow and the illustrations are visually appealing and engaging. The book is a great way to introduce children to new words and concepts, and to encourage them to develop a love of reading. It has been translated into many languages and continues to be popular among children and parents around the world.

“8 Little Planets” by Chris Ferrie

The book is an introduction to space and the planets in our solar system. The book covers the eight planets in our solar system and provides basic information about each planet, including size, distance from the sun, and number of moons. The book uses simple language and colorful illustrations to make the information accessible and engaging for young children.

The book is part of the “Baby University” series, which is designed to introduce young children to complex concepts in a simple and accessible way. The series uses a combination of illustrations and simple text to explain scientific concepts to children. The book is also a great tool for parents and educators to introduce children to the concept of space and the planets and to spark their curiosity. It’s a great way to introduce children to the world of science and to encourage them to develop an interest in space and the natural world.

“Press Here” and “Mix It Up!” by Herve Tullet

These are both children’s interactive books that encourage children to engage with the book in a hands-on way. “Press Here” is an interactive book that invites children to press a yellow dot on the cover, which then leads to a series of surprises and interactive experiences within the book. The book is designed with simple illustrations and bold colors that capture the attention of young children. “Mix It Up!” is another interactive book by the same author, that invites children to mix up different colors and shapes on the pages, creating new and unexpected combinations. The book is designed to encourage children to experiment with the illustrations, and to explore the creative possibilities of combining different elements. Both books are a perfect way to engage children’s creativity and imagination, while also helping them to develop their fine motor skills and hand-eye coordination.

These books are not only entertaining for kids, but also educational for them. They help children to develop their language skills, imagination, and love of books. It is always recommended to read with children, to help them with comprehension and to discuss the story and the illustrations with them.

“The Color Monster” by Anna Lllenas

The Color Monster series of books, written and illustrated by Anna Llenas, is a collection of children’s books that aim to teach children about emotions and feelings. The books follow the story of a monster named The Color Monster who is feeling confused and overwhelmed by the different emotions he is experiencing. The books use bright, colorful illustrations and simple text to help children understand the different emotions they may be feeling and how to deal with them. Each color represents a different emotion, for example, the red color represents anger and the blue color represents sadness. The books aim to help children identify and understand their emotions, and to learn to express them in healthy ways. The series includes books such as “The Color Monster: A Story About Emotions” and “The Color Monster Learns to Be Brave”, which are designed to be used as a tool for parents, teachers, and counselors to help children understand and cope with their emotions.

We used one of the books in this series just before my son started school, in order to prepare him for the emotions that he would possibly feel. The other book about basic feelings remained a bedtime staple for several months, and actually helped me to sort out my own feelings together with my son.

Latest Padel Match

Jean Galea

Investor | Dad | Global Citizen | Athlete