Our April Get-together will take place next Wednesday (April 1st) at DAVIOS in Buckhead located in the Phipps mall area.
We will meet in the bar area and will most likely also have access to the outside patio, especially if the weather is good. We will have drink specials and I’ll find out about the appetizers at a later date.
More info to follow – please save the date for next Wednesday April 1st! Members, please LOG IN with your email and password to sign up and find more details. (if you are not a member yet, register below — it is FREE.)
Share this EuroCircle event and invite other Europeans to join EuroCircle.com – it’s free. REGISTER HERE AS A NEW MEMBER
Tickets: ADVANCE TICKETS ARE A MUST! THIS VENUE LIMITS ATTENDANCE TO 25 SEATS
AND NO TICKETS WILL BE SOLD AT THE DOOR. GET TICKETS
Border Crossings is a collaboration between EuroCircle and the Geographical Society of Philadelphia. We aim
to humanize people and places around the world through substantive presentations and conversations with those
intimate with the cultures, in a casual setting with a cash bar. So please grab a glass of wine, and enjoy our presentation.
You are cordially invited to a private talk and reception with His Excellency, Zygimantas Pavilionis,
Ambassador of the Republic of Lithuania. Tonight, you will witness history in the making, as we discuss
the growing fears of this Baltic state that it could be the next target of Putin’s aggression.
Tensions are running high in Lithuania, and global news outlets are watching the region closely.
His Excellency will give a brief presentation on the current situation in his country, then answer questions
from the audience.
BIOGRAPHY: Zygimantas Pavilionis (Phonetic: pa-vill-i-OH-nis)
Ambassador of the Republic of Lithuania
Ambassador Pavilionis, 41, is married to Lina Pavilioniene and has four sons. In 1993,
Pavilionis joined the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where he was instrumental in achieving
Lithuanian accession into NATO and the European Union. Between 1993 and 2009, he
has held various high-level positions in the Lithuanian MFA, most focused on Lithuania’s
relationship with the European Union. Most recently Ambassador Pavilionis acted as
Ambassador –at-Large and Chief Coordinator for Lithuania’s Presidency of the
Community of Democracies and Chief Coordinator for Transatlantic relations. He has a
Master’s Degree in Philosophy and PhD in Political Science. He pursued both degrees in
Vilnius University, Lithuania.
NOTE: Please plan to arrive early, as it may take some time to park. This event is closed to printed ticket holders only. Tickets will not be sold at the door.There will be a wine reception at the end of the presentation. Cash bar.
TRIP WITH SHERRY – EuroCircle Journeys Across Africa – Oct 2015
3 Countries in one EuroCircle Adventure!
Namibia, Botswana, Zambia. From the Kalahari Desert, through the Okavango Delta, we walk with the San bushmen, visit Chobe National Park, search for the Big 5, float past hippos in a dugout canoe, raft the whitewaters of the Zambezi River or bungee jump down the Victoria Falls! Scared?
I am excited to share this interview with Chef Alain Braux. Alain was kind of enough to come to downtown to meet me at Alta Cafe since I can walk there easily from Rainey Street (I do NOT drive…I know, that’s crazy in Austin). He grew up in southern France, Nice. So of course I assumed he learned to cook at his parents’ restaurant but that’s not quite how life worked out for him.
Alain, did your mom teach you to cook?
No, actually my mother was not much of a cook even if she encouraged me to cook. After my parents divorced and money became tight, I had to drop out of school and went to work as my mother’s salary was not enough for all of us to live on. I always liked baking so that was my way of helping her as much as I could. In my younger years, my grandmother Mamie had influenced my thinking towards food a lot – not so much the fancy skills but how to live on a tight budget and eat well. Eating well does not mean eating a lot – there is a difference.
My grandparents ran a small farm for the owner – and in return they paid no rent and to help put food on the table, she gardened, raised chickens, and rabbits..! She grew nearly anything we ate. And it was farm fresh, literally. She went to the garden, or sent us – the food was very fresh and tasty. I learned from her how to pick the best ingredients. The only thing I could not learn was to kill the chickens or the rabbits.
Where and how did you start in food business?
I started as a pastry apprentice at Auer in Nice, worked at different positions over the years all over France at different hotels, restaurants and bakeries, even in Belgium.
Then, while I was taking a professional class at the Lenôtre School near Paris, I was offered a pastry chef position at Dumas Pastry Shop in New York City. From New York City I worked my way up the ladder in Houston, Sarasota (FL) and Austin. Then, my French wife and I decided to open our own Amandine French Bakery and Cafe in Austin. We owned our business for over 10 years but had to close in 1997.
I realize you have written so far 5 books. How did that start?
Upon closing our business I realized I was very interested in how food affects our health. I decided it would be interesting to combine my extensive knowledge as a French chef and my newly found passion for nutrition. So, I decided to study Macrobiotics and Holistic Nutrition. I eventually got a position as Executive Chef and Nutrition Therapist at People’s Pharmacy.
About 5 years ago, I decided to share my own experience with high cholesterol. I wrote and self-published (on Amazon CreateSpace) my very first book: How to Lower Your Cholesterol with French Gourmet Food. This book is based on my knowledge of the Mediterranean diet. I caught the writing bug and have not stopped writing about food and health since.
I specialize in allergen-free food and desserts: gluten-free, dairy-free, and sugar-free. I help clients with weight loss, diabetes and other health issues with the Paleo diet. I can also work with vegetarians and vegan clients. Although I don’t work at PeoplesRx anymore, I am available for private consultation to people with assorted food allergies and health issues.
I want to make clear that our readers understand you are an accomplished and well-versed professional so let’s just list here some of your former jobs, ok?
Ok, well we talked about some of them already. Here are a few of the most notable:
Grand Hotel du Cap d’Antibes near Cannes, France
Moulin de Mougins, Mougins, France with chef Roger Verger
Wittamer, Bruxelles, Belgium
Lenotre, Paris, France
Hotel Negresco with chef Jacques Maximin, Nice, France
Dumas Pastry Shop, New York, NY
Delices La Cote Basque, New York, NY
Texas French Bread, Austin, TX
Amandine French Bakery, Austin, TX
How is it work in these great restaurants?
It is a lot of work, you learn a lot and in this industry but it is crucial to learn by doing it yourself. It can be very intense. You learn about superb quality, work very long hours, no weekends and Holidays and spend a lot of time on your feet. But it was necessary at the time for me to learn my skills as a pastry chef. My interest and love for food and nutrition came later.
By nature, I question everything (hmm…sounds like a few other French men I know) which does not always work well with famous chefs with large egos but ma passion helped me overcome these obstacles. As a perfectionist in my profession, I do it well or I don’t do it.
I assume I like teaching since you like writing as usually these two skills go hand in hand?
Yes. I am very much an introvert but I love teaching people who want to learn the food trade. I can be demanding as a teacher but it’s all for a good cause. If you were to see my house, my walls are lined by cookbooks and nutrition books – there are piles of them everywhere. I love reading and learning. There is always something new to learn all the time. I have taught at a few places in Austin, for example retail classes at Central Market and Whole Foods Markey as well as professional Pastry and Baking Arts at the Culinary Academy of Austin and Food as Medicine at the Natural Epicurean School of Culinary Arts.
Any advice for aspiring chefs?
I think I mentioned before that the best and in fact the ONLY way is on the job learning by doing. It’s always best if you can work directly with the great chefs and learn your trade daily in a real working kitchen. There is no secret for success. It is not a reality show. Real life in the kitchen is hard, you work long and inconvenient hours – it is not for everyone and without the passion for food, you will not survive that world.
So how do you eat yourself?
Surprisingly, my daily diet is very simple. It is not how much you eat – what is most important is the ingredients’ quality. I keep things simple but healthy. I eat a couple of eggs with cheese or bacon in the morning, a fresh fruit, and my special mocha (cocoa/coffee) drink with almond milk and a teaspoon of grass-fed butter. No refined sugar. Very little processed food. For lunch I usually have a nice organic mixed greens salad, with 4 ounces of fish (wild, never farmed) or grass-fed beef and a fresh fruit. Low carbs. My home-made salad dressing is also simple and healing. Extra virgin olive oil, apple cider, French mustard and sometimes miso. I also add sea salt and cayenne pepper. My dinner is light and smaller than lunch. I sleep better that way. A fruit, nuts and a square of dark chocolate. I like my food to be tasty so spices and herbs really count! And again, I make sure everything is of the best quality I can afford. Nowadays, my night treat is a rice/nut cracker (gluten free) with roquefort cheese. Sometimes I add a glass of red wine.
You are divorced. Is there a special lady in your life?
I am at very good terms with my ex-wife who is about to remarry. I have not found that special lady yet. Since I am a romantic Frenchman, I do miss having that special person in my life. However, I don’t want to be thought of being someone’s personal chef. Although food is my passion, cooking for me is work. That is why I keep things simple at home. I’d like to meet someone to share ma passions with food (of course), music, arts, travel and a simple but healthy life, “la belle vie en somme”. I am an introverted and quiet guy and prefer to be with someone who shares my interest in a healthy lifestyle, does not smoke and is not a big drinker. For a Frenchman I must confess that I do not know much about wines. Although I do enjoy a glass of nice red wine once in a while, I am not a big drinker. I hope to find that special lady one day – unless she finds me first Do you have kids?
Yes, we have a son, Gilles. He is in his 30s and lives close by in Austin. He recently started his own business – a private chauffeuring and limousine service. He is very close to me – and contrary to me, he’s totally a people person. You need to be in his line of work and he’s very good at it.
How are the cooking lessons nowadays days for you?
Well, I teach at the Natural Epicurean Academy of culinary Arts – Lead Vegetarian Recipe & Menu Chef. Don’t forget I am a classically trained French Chef. I am also a Certified Executive Pastry Chef with the American Culinary Federation and a Certified Master Baker with the Retail Bakers of America. I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Holistic Nutrition and have studied macrobiotics, subsequently serving as a Macrobiotic Counselor. However, I eat meat. I avoid gluten, dairy and refined sugar – and all processed food. I’d happily teach some more but I hear even Whole Foods is shutting down their school and there are rumors about other local institutions shutting down their classes which is sad.
Anything you’d like all of us to learn from you?
Lesson 1: Size IS everything. I know everything is bigger in Texas but let’s face it. Portion control is very important.
Lesson 2: No processed food, no refined sugar, no processed dairy (avoid industrial dairy loaded with growth hormones, antibiotics and genetically engineered grains). That means raw milk, yogurt, butter and cheese if you can handle dairy. If you are lactose intolerant, drink almond, coconut, soy (organic only), hazelnut, rice or hemp milk.
Lesson 3: Avoid grains and beans. They contain anti nutrients and can be inflammatory.
Lesson 4: Think quality, not quantity.
Lesson 5: Healthy food should be beautiful and tasty, not bland and boring.
Lesson 6: It is possible to eat well for about $10 a day – very well.
My professional motto is, A Votre Santé! – To Your Health!
Okkido, now I feel sufficiently unhealthy. Ugh…got to start eating right. I know for a fact that what Alain says makes sense. I have to really face the reality. Alain follows the paleo diet which is what my neighbors do..and they look very healthy.
How to connect with Alain Braux and get his books:
Keep in mind, Chef Alain does private consulting for nutrition and cooking. If you’d like to arrange a healthy meal at home for your friends…ask him to take care of it.
https://www.eurocircle.com/euro/wp-content/uploads/austin-member/2015/03/Braux.jpg289400Kaisa Kokkonenhttp://www.eurocircle.com/euro/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/eclogow1.pngKaisa Kokkonen2015-03-25 08:49:182022-01-10 21:41:38The size IS everything says French Chef Alain Braux
Europeans in Denver who want to socialize – join us for happy hour drinks and food at Charcoal restaurant in Central Denver!
TRIP WITH SHERRY – EuroCircle Journeys Across Africa – Oct 2015
3 Countries in one EuroCircle Adventure!
Namibia, Botswana, Zambia. From the Kalahari Desert, through the Okavango Delta, we walk with the San bushmen, visit Chobe National Park, search for the Big 5, float past hippos in a dugout canoe, raft the whitewaters of the Zambezi River or bungee jump down the Victoria Falls! Scared?
SACC PRESENTS: Euro Networking & “Take Stress from Chaos to Calm”
This is an event that everyone interested in European networking or Mindfulness should attend. Please bring a friend! Dr. Annika is an inspirational speaker who will motivate and encourage the audience to make changes in their life – both big and small. She talks about life, stress, health and how it all connects, making it fun and easy to grasp. You always get tools and inspiration for happiness at work and in life as Take-home messages”
With Scandinavian countries consistently being ranked among the happiest and least stressed in the world, Dr. Annika is on a North American speaking tour to share her health tips and promote a happier and less stressful life.
6:00 – 7:00 Networking
7:00 – 8:00 Dr. Annika Presentation
8:00 – 9:00 Networking and Book Signing
Join us at the comfortably elegant social atmosphere at Beacons in Cherry Creek, and enjoy Swedish appetizers and 1 drink (wine or beer) for $25.00/person.
Dr. Annika Sörensen is an MD, specializing in family medicine and Scandinavian health promotion strategies. After practicing in the Swedish Public Health System for 25 + years, she recently changed her focus from disease to health with an emphasis on stress, health promotion, work assessment, and other business and personal related issues.
On top of her business, AskDrAnnika.com, Dr. Annika is the author of the top-rated stress management book, Take Stress from Chaos to Calm, which is both a resource and workbook dedicated to improving the lives of company leaders and professionals following Scandinavian health and wellness principles. Based on the success of her first book, Dr. Annika recently published her second, My De-Stress Diary. Again receiving rave reviews, Dr. Annika was surprised to learn that many North Americans are not implementing her simple but actionable stress management tips into their everyday lives.
https://www.eurocircle.com/euro/wp-content/uploads/denver-event/2015/03/beacons.jpg478640Kaisa Kokkonenhttp://www.eurocircle.com/euro/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/eclogow1.pngKaisa Kokkonen2015-03-22 02:35:132022-01-10 21:41:38Denver – Mar 26 2015
Since March 6th Austin, TX has had its first Austrian owned restaurant as far as I know. Prelog’s is a contemporary, French fusion Kitchen and Bar that aims for European style impeccable service.
Please introduce yourself/ves.
My name is Florian Prelog, my wife is Romana P. Prelog. Both Romana and I both have been in the upscale fine dining/hotel industry since we were 15 years old. We love what we do.. we have been working in restaurants, hotels, ships (Seabourn is in a class by itself) and palaces. We always wanted to open up our own business to be able to share the love for the culinary arts and hospitality industry.
How did you end up in Austin, TX of all places?
When I visited my brother – who lives in Seattle – I met Brady, a friend of the Prelogs family who lives in Austin. When I cooked for him he told me that Austin needs an award-winning chef. I came to visit the city and promptly fell in love with the people, the flair and the food!
My brother and his family help us out wherever he can and supports our dream.
You have this new restaurant – how would you like to develop it or possibly open another one, like a café/bakery?
We have many ideas! We have also started working on further projects … but that is all we can say for now 😉
Do you see the differences between nationalities easily – Austrian vs. Americans?
You know 😉
What do you miss the most – and the least from Graz, Austria or Europe?
Our family and friends, the culture and the landscaping … but hey, Austin has a lot to offer!
What is your absolute favorites as far as food/drinks go in Austin?
We love Lenoir! Josephine house, Mulberry and Fabi & Rosi are great places for us! We love to go out for a nice dinner.
Workwise – how do you see Austrians being different from Americans – also culturally, what stands out in your chosen profession?
There is a BIG DIFFERENCE between Austrians and Americas regarding hospitality education and pride people take in their profession!
)When you think about what did you think about life in the USA before you moved there – did you have misconceptions that turned out to be wrong?
We never thought or planned on moving to the States. This past year was truly a year of learning and understanding the laws.It was very hard!
Knowing more about life and having lived with your decisions for a while – would you still choose to be there and why?
Yes because it is the right timing – and the right place to do what we love the most!
Your favorite food? I know to me Austrian food was a lot of meat, sausages, great and a bit heavy with fantastic pastries What do you want people to experience at your restaurant?
European flair, a little bit from everywhere with great taste and presentation where the diner feels the love for food.
How is the expatriate community there in Austin?
So far I have met many Germans, only a few Austrians. I hope all Europeans come to see us!
I am curious how the standard of living is in Austin in your opinion compared to Austria. Where else have you two lived and worked?
Short but sweet: In the USA you earn more…but the benefits in Austria are great! There is no place I have lived before where the benefits and the social security are as good as in Austria.
Romana and I lived and worked in Spain, Cayman Islands, Dubai, at sea (Romana), Scotland , Germany and at sea (myself).
Connect with Florian and Romana Prelogs:
PRELOGS
360 Nueces St & W 3rd St
Austin, Texas 78701
“Sacher’s savoury fare — from classic Tafelspitz to contemporary French fusion cuisine — is not to be missed. Ornate fin-de-siècle-style décor and princely service create an Old World setting that counterbalances the very modern dishes of the chef Florian Prelog, like pickled char with sweet apple ricotta and spicy horseradish.” – New York Times (2013)
“The Café Sacher in Innsbruck shines in new splendor…. The chef and manager Florian Prelog, a graduate of the Institute of Tourism in Bad Gleichenberg, interned with some of the best chefs in the world and worked in numerous experiences abroad, including the luxury liner Queen Mary. Florian is a passionate chef and is now in charge of an eight- member team in “his” kitchen.” – Falstaff (2011)
“Florian is a rare find in the culinary industry.” – Johann Lafer, Michelin rated chef and German television cooking star (2013)
https://www.eurocircle.com/euro/wp-content/uploads/austin-member/2015/03/Prelogs.jpg590603Kaisa Kokkonenhttp://www.eurocircle.com/euro/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/eclogow1.pngKaisa Kokkonen2015-03-20 08:42:262022-01-10 21:41:38Florian and Romana Prelog – Creating the European haven @ the Prelogs (Austin)
Let’s welcome the long-awaited blooming season, Spring, with the Houston Euro Circle.
Please note that we are going back to Wednesdays and please join us on March 25th, 2015 at a new place in town.
W+M will be featuring for the evening schnapps cocktail specials until 7:00 PM and wine specials all evening to celebrate the beautiful colors of Spring.
Time: 6:00 – 9:00 PM on March 25th, 2015
Location: Weights + Measures 2808 Caroline Houston, TX 77004
(713) 624-0921
Please sign up and we will see y’all on the 25th, Venere, Shahla, Mary Beth, and Juliana.
I have this strangest love for Russian culture – being a Finn some people expect us not to like Russian stuff. I love Russian culture, food, and I am in tears when I listen to the old Russian folk songs. I have never been to St. Petersburg (and I always think it as Leningrad) even if it is only like 150 km from the Finnish border (been to Australia, Myanmar,Thailand, Hong Kong etc). Luba is a sweetheart so I asked could I interview her.
Please introduce yourself.
Hello. My name is Luba Cain. I’m from St. Petersburg, Russia. I graduated from St. Petersburg Polytechnic University with a degree in graphic design. I chose that degree because, as a child, I loved to draw and paint. Later on, I took computer courses for four years. I really enjoyed drawing and using computers, therefore I knew that I wanted to combine those things. I currently live in Round Rock, TX (just outside Austin) with my husband and 15 month old son.
How did you end up in Austin, TX of all places?
My husband has a degree in Russian language. He came to St. Petersburg to study abroad during college. We fell in love and got married. I moved to the U.S. and we settled in East Texas (Tyler) where my husband grew up. We had always wanted to live in a larger metropolitan area, so my husband was able to find a job in Austin and we decided to move. We love it here!
What is the best and worst about Austin for you…what is a typical day and weekend?
I love Austin because of the people. There’s so many interesting people here and they are so diverse in their culture and beliefs. You won’t find that in most other cities in Texas. There’s also a lot of foreigners here and a decent-sized Russian/Ukrainian population. I found friends here! I suppose the worst thing about Austin for me is the traffic. A typical weekday for me is taking care of my son. On the weekends, I’m able to devote myself to my photography work.
What do you miss the most – and the least from your own country?
What I miss the most about my own country would be my family. I have four sisters I grew up with and my parents that support me in everything. I also miss St. Petersburg. It’s a huge city with beautiful architecture and the Neva River flows through the city. I liked the fact that most people walk everywhere and use public transportation, whereas here we are always driving in a car somewhere, even if it is 2 minutes from your house. What I miss the least would be the very cold and harsh winters. Although I think I prefer those over the humid and hot summers here!
What cafes or restaurants do you recommend to tourists to go to in Austin and why? Or to do something else.
I love Indian food, so I definitely recommend Madras Pavilion. Very friendly people work there and the food is awesome. For people with children, I recommend The Thinkery or to go walking in any of the parks around town.
Tell us more about your photography business?
I am a professional photographer specializing in maternity and newborns. I started photography because of my father who is a photographer. He taught me to shoot with film first. I learned about composition, lightning and equipment. Later on I opened my first boudoir studio. It was a very unique experience. I had a great team of women that helped me with make-up, hair and clothing. When I came to the U.S. and had my first child, I took a lot of pictures of him. I loved it and decided to specialize in newborns and maternity. I believe you need to capture those moments because they will never be that tiny again and will never fit in your hands again. Plus, kids love to look at themselves and their parents.
Is it different to run a business in Russia than in the U.S.?
I had a photo studio in Russia and I can tell you that it is very different. Most photographers in Russia don’t own a place for their own studio like they do here. There are places that already have beautiful rooms with different set ups you can choose from. So you just rent a room and shoot there.
) What should your clients expect?
I create a unique experience for my clients. I offer finished art pieces and I want them to remember the session where a mother holds her newborn baby that fits in her arms for the last time. I capture emotions, personalities and new lives. Your experience begins with a pre-session consultation in-person or over the phone. I will answer all of your questions, show you examples of my work and what print products you could order through my professional photo lab.
I select the best images and hand-edit them individually. At the Viewing/Ordering Session, I show the slideshow with 25-30 pictures (usually parents cry when they see the pictures of their kids). Clients are able to order prints, canvases and albums.
Please check out my web site and look at my work. www.lubacain.com and facebook.com/LubaCainArt
How do you find the lifestyle in Austin compared to your hometown?
People in Austin are very different and come from many different backgrounds, religions and from different parts of the world. You’re mainly just going to find Russians in St. Petersburg, Housing in Austin is a lot bigger. That being said, I personally believe the educational system is better and the food is more natural.
Would you move back to your country/Europe fulltime – yes or no?
I like it here a lot, but I think I would move back if I could. Of course, I was born there so I love my home and most of my friends and family are there.
What do you do in your free time?
I am a very creative person so I like to learn different and fun things like painting with henna on hands and other parts of the body. I also enjoy making mandalas (Ojo-de-Dios), crocheting, knitting, sewing, and painting. About once a month I host workshops where I teach how to do some of these things.
https://www.eurocircle.com/euro/wp-content/uploads/austin-member/2015/03/LubaCain4.jpg793526Kaisa Kokkonenhttp://www.eurocircle.com/euro/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/eclogow1.pngKaisa Kokkonen2015-03-15 05:15:362022-01-10 21:41:38Luba Cain – Russian photographer who specializes in maternity and newborns
My name is Choi Zung-Kyu Per Mattias Strömberg, born in Taegu, South Korea and raised by my adoptive parents in, well most of the time in Jönköping, Sweden. I am a real mix of everything, my looks are East Asian, my name (I usually introduce myself as Mattias) is Swedish. My English is a mix of Lancashire & Irish accent, with a hint of Scottish. So occasionally it is quite interesting when I meet someone for a business meeting for the first time.
I have a background as a 2nd lieutenant in the Swedish Army Rangers, a Masters in Weapon systems and Explosives and a Bachelors in Intelligence/counter-intelligence operations. No civilian diploma but plan to attend evening courses to achieve one.
I live in Budapest, and have lived here for a year now. I live alone in a 2 room apartment in the outskirts of Budapest, which is nice. A bit more quiet and relaxed than living in the city center, and a lot cheaper too.
I have lived in Ireland, England, Poland and Algeria before. I guess I am a bit of a globetrotter.
How did you end up in Budapest, Hungary of all places?
I was Delivery Manager for an IT company in Sweden, and one of the accounts had an office here in Budapest as well. Every once and again I had to go here for meetings. After a relationship with someone – for whom I moved back to Sweden – was over, I decided to move to Budapest.
What is the best and worst about Budapest for you?
Everything is so close. 3 hours and you are in Stockholm, or in Paris. Or why not go to Vienna for a day? Venice? Prague? London… And all you can think of is here too. Want to go to the opera or a musical? Go clubbing? Enjoy history and culture?
The administration is the one thing I really dislike here, and that EVERYTHING is in Hungarian. Without someone who helps you to translate, you are utterly lost.
How do you make your living now – and how would you like to develop that career?
I recently started a new position as a Support specialist for ExxonMobil’s Budapest office. It is a fairly easy position I would say. I plan to stay work in this position for a year or so, then start climbing the corporate ladder. I have always worked in some sort of leadership or management position before, so being at entry level feels very strange.
Do you see the differences between nationalities easily – yours vs. Americans vs. other Europeans?
I would say that I fairly easy can tell from what country people come from. This may have to do with me moving around so much, meeting and interacting with people from all over the world.
What do you absolutely miss from your country/heritage …or elsewhere? What do you miss the most – and the least from your own country?
Salted licorice. I crave my salted licorice and have a hard time finding it here, or any place outside Scandinavia. I also miss the Swedish “snus” (wet/moist tobacco) and since it is illegal to sell outside of Sweden (for EU countries) I depend on my friends in Sweden to send me some (there is a little shop selling under the counter, but shhh… don’t tell anyone) I also miss going to the movies and watching them in the original language. I would say that 95% of all movies showed in the cinemas are dubbed.
What is your absolute favorites as far as food/drinks go in Hungary?
Since I love meat, Hungary is the perfect country for me. The selection of sausages here is incredible, and there is a never ending supply of meat in all forms you can imagine. As for drinks Hungary is also a very good wine country. So, a good dish of meat with a glass of red is always welcome. Pálinka have also caught my attention, but I try to avoid the factory produced off the counter version. Proper pálinka should be the home-made one.
Workwise – how do you see Hungarians being different from Swedes – also culturally, what stands out in your chosen profession?
Hungarians and Swedes are pretty similar in many ways when it comes to work. We dig our heads down and do what we are told. At the same time, they are very much like the Irish. A bit laid back, no stress and if they miss a cut-off it’s not the end of the world. Took me some time to adjust back to this way of working after a couple of years back in Sweden. They also try to help out more, more than Swede’s do. If you have a problem or a question, all of a sudden you have 10 people from your department helping out. Another thing is that everyone is very polite here, greeting each other in the elevator, even if you don’t work for the same company. Walking into the office in the morning and you have said “good morning” to everyone you pass by.
The only major difference I would say is that in Sweden, it is not needed to have a diploma from a University or College to land a manager position. If you have the experience and proven track-record, you can get hired for a management position. Here in Hungary, it is impossible. Experience doesn’t count at all if you don’t have a diploma.
Sweden vs. Hungary – what do you think at minimum we should know about Sweden and Hungary?
In Sweden you can get along without speaking a word of Swedish, as long as you speak English. In Hungary it is the opposite. Generally people here only speak a couple of words in English.
Knowing more about life and having lived with your decisions for a while (like work) – would you still choose to be there and why?
That is a hard one. But I have to say yes. With all the problems and trouble that come with not speaking the language, the positives still win. Why? I don’t know, maybe because everything still is “new” to me and there is so much more to discover.
What cafes or restaurants, sights do you recommend to tourists to go to in Budapest and why?
There is so much to see and experience here in Budapest, but to name a few: the ruin pubs, Castle Hill and Fisherman’s Bastion, St Stephens Basilica, The Budapest Zoo. Take a tour with the river boats, enjoy a trip with continental Europe’s oldest metro, the New York Café… The list goes on…
How is the expatriate community there in Budapest, lots of Swedes for example?
Budapest is an international metropolitan, but not many Swedes or Scandinavians that are permanently living here. Most come here for studies or an internship.
Sweden is a very wealthy and equal country. I am curious how the standard of living is in Budapest (housing, health care, costs etc) – I have never been there myself – shame on me, I always wanted to.
Living in Hungary is totally different from Sweden. In every aspect. Salary, living standard, health care and social security. It feels like a lot of the things are still stuck in the 80’s. Yes, you can find high-end, top of the line housing, owned by foreigners and ridiculously overpriced. But if you stay away from the Real Estate agents who exclusively target foreigners, you can find really good housing for a fair price.
https://www.eurocircle.com/euro/wp-content/uploads/interview/2015/03/MattiasStromberg.jpg720719Kaisa Kokkonenhttp://www.eurocircle.com/euro/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/eclogow1.pngKaisa Kokkonen2015-03-11 10:13:092022-01-10 21:41:38Mattias Strömberg – From Sweden to Budapest with South Korean Flair
I just HAD to ask her for an interview. Oulu is one of northenmost larger cities in the world, I grew up about 230 km southeast from there. It is a city that is also called “living labs” – it has a specific place in my heart as my sister lived there for a while.
Please introduce yourself.
Hello Y’all! My name is Hanna Doyle (Kupiainen) and I was born and raised in Oulu, Finland. My first experience living in the U.S. was in 1997, when I was a foreign exchange student for one year of high school in Scandia, Minnesota (thank you Nickelson family). I enjoyed my time in the U.S. so much that I wanted to come back, so I returned in 2001 to be an Au Pair for one year in Chicago (thank you Holzhauser family). After my year as an Au Pair was over, I moved to Lohja, Finland, where I received
my associate’s degree in Tourism, Sales and Information Services. I was then accepted to Lahti University of Applied Sciences, majoring in Hospitality Management, and completed 3 semesters there.
I would finish my degree in Houston, as you will see below.
Fast-forwarding to 2015, I am married to James, who is a native Houstonian that I met in 2007. Jonah (12) is my step-son who lives with us in Spring, Texas with his little brother….and my biological son….Lucas (3), who is learning to speak both Finnish and English. We also have two pets: Tommy (our dog) and Peanut (our goldfish). We will be adding to our family in August. Merlin (15) will join us from Germany, as a foreign exchange student, and will be attending Klein Oak High School. Having kids at
home is wonderful, but it certainly keeps me busy!
How did you end up in Houston, TX of all places?
It was May 2006 when I received a phone call from my former Au Pair family. They had been transferred from Chicago to Houston and they invited me to move in with them in and finish my degree in Hospitality Management. I was so excited, not only to be returning to the United States, but also because the University of Houston is home of the Conrad N. Hilton college of Hotel and Restaurant Management! I packed my bags and told my mom that I was going to Texas for three months (sorry mom), knowing it would probably be more like three years. I graduated with Honors from the University of Houston in December 2009. Never did I think that I would stay in Texas after my graduation, but here I am, married with children.
What is the best and worst about Houston for you?
The best thing about Houston is the food! I love food, and if you are a foodie, Houston is the best place to live! We have the most amazing Tex-Mex, steaks, and sushi (I call it Texas sushi). I still haven’t learned to like BBQ, but I know it’s a big part of the culture here and my husband tells me that there’s nothing like authentic Texas BBQ.
As for the worst thing about Houston, I’d have to say it’s a tie between the traffic and the summer heat. No one likes to be stuck in traffic, and there is plenty of that in Houston. While I love the winters here, because it never gets down to -30F (like it does in Oulu), the summertime heat in Houston can be unbearable when it gets over 100F.
How do you make your living now – and how would you like to develop that career?
I work as the Office Manager at a private golf country club in The Woodlands. I’m glad to have a job in the hospitality industry and work normal hours Monday – Friday. I also work with International Cultural Exchange Services as a Field Manager. ICES is an exchange student organization that brings in students from all over the world to learn and experience life in the U.S. Having seen the benefits of the exchange student program myself, I can say that working with international teens and American families has changed my life for sure. I have a true passion for it and I love giving those kids an opportunity to broaden their horizons in the United States, just like I did back in 1997. I am currently hiring new Local Coordinators in Texas, New Mexico and Oklahoma. If you are interested in working as a Local Coordinator for us, or if you would like to host an exchange student, please contact me at hdoyle@icesusa.org.
Do you see the differences between nationalities easily – yours vs. Americans vs. other Europeans?
Finnish people are not the most warm and cuddly nationality out there. We like our space and our privacy and don’t easily warm up to strangers. I noticed when I moved here that Texans like to hug a lot and they always want to make small-talk, whether they know you or not. It was very strange. I am getting used to it now, but every now and then, my husband tells me “Stop being such a Finn and loosen up!”
What do you absolutely miss from your country/heritage …or elsewhere? What do you miss the most – and the least from your own country?
I miss sauna most of all. Anyone from Finland will tell you that it’s a HUGE part of our culture. Also, I miss eating reindeer and mashed potatoes, Valio vanilla ice cream, salted black licorice, rye bread, Karelia pies, Finnish chocolate, Kotipizza….the list is never ending. Did I mention that I like food?
What do I miss the least about living in Finland? There’s not much to say here, other than the limited options on television and radio. Living in Texas for a while, I’ve also grown to love country music….almost none of that back home!
Workwise – how do you see Americans being different from your countrymen– also culturally, what stands out in your chosen profession?
In Finland we get plenty of vacation and sick time. It was disappointing to learn that I only receive 10 days of vacation and 10 days of sick time per year. Some employers don’t even offer that much. What happened to taking off work every July? Not over here. Also, I have to say that six weeks of maternity leave is nothing. In Finland we get nine months! But I still choose to live here and I love what I do. As for work ethic, I will say that Finnish people, for the most part, are much more punctual and everything is done with intent…..no one keeps you waiting and very little time is wasted on meaningless tasks. Generally speaking, I haven’t found that to be as true here in the United States, although I have worked with some very intelligent and hard-working individuals.
When you think about what did you think about life in Houston before you moved there – did you misconceptions that turned out to be wrong?
I thought there would be tumbleweed and cowboys EVERYWHERE! Obviously, that’s not the case. Texans don’t all have cows or ride their horses to work every day. Also, I was afraid there would be snakes everywhere, especially rattlesnakes. I’m glad this did not turn out to be true….not a big fan of snakes!
Knowing more about life and having lived with your decisions for a while (like work) – would you still choose to be there and why?
Absolutely! The chances of me ever moving back to Finland are very slim. I have a family here in Texas and it wouldn’t be fair to ask them to move all the way to another country. That being said, my husband and I have discussed moving someday, so there’s a chance that I could end up back in Minnesota….hopefully in a nice house on a lake!
What cafes or restaurants do you recommend to tourists to go to in Houston and why?
This is something that I know about….yummy food! There are several places that I love that are close to me in Spring. This area is known for great Tex-Mex (a Texas version of Mexican food), so I would recommend my personal favorite, Mi Rancho. Love it! Fukuda Sushi is fantastic as well, if you just want good sushi and not necessarily the high prices or fancy atmosphere. One of my new favorite restaurants is Peli Peli in Vintage Park. If you are craving a good steak, you will find it here.
https://www.eurocircle.com/euro/wp-content/uploads/houston-interview/2015/03/HannaDoyle.jpg720576Kaisa Kokkonenhttp://www.eurocircle.com/euro/wp-content/uploads/2014/06/eclogow1.pngKaisa Kokkonen2015-03-09 05:58:262022-01-10 21:41:38Hanna Doyle – How does a woman from subarctic Oulu end in humid subtropical Houston, TX
