I'm back from the abyss of planning and scheduling... with the fruit of my labour - The 2011-2012 Financial Plan for Le Petit Atelier. It will evolve along the next few weeks as I meet with clients of course, but it's a promising year. I also have scheduled a couple of weeks in Mexico in the sring, my reward for a great fall and winter... hey, I'm the boss after all!
Once the schedule is settled for next fall and winter, sometime in May, I will have to review and revise all my programs. I basically have a three month window to write a full set of individual lesson plans for a number of programs, and I'm excited to do it. It's an opportunity to refine the content of the series, and introduce new and exciting repertoire. I'm planning a retreat at the cottage with 2 Petit Atelier teachers in early september. We will rehearse the new programs, with songs and rhymes and games, should be interesting with a little wine!
And with that of course, I still didn't do anything about my taxes. Blaghhhh!!!! Fast forward over that part please!
Piles of receipts to sort and tally. Unavoidable. Must do. Oh Lordy Lordy!
Somewhere between Izamal and Sudzal, Yucatan.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Sunday, March 27, 2011
In the swing of spring
Full swing into business mode - preparing training and teaching schedules (getting tricky with a few teachers), meetings lined-up with clients and teachers, negotiating left and right, strategic and financial planning, keeping an eye on the business plan, and don't you step on my blue suede shoes! Looking forward to the admin help...
Family life is good, Dylan and his team won the hockey championship this morning! Heather came over and had a very nice homework session with Léo, while Tim was teaching music to Zach. It's a perfect exchange, works very well so far.
Tonight is Pizza and Juno night, with a fire log.
Travel plans will soon begin for my next trip to Yucatan, a teaching project. I'm not sure how the Spanish section of the business will develop over the next few years, but I know it will click in it's place eventually. It's a long time dream and it feels beautifully right, so I'm doing it!
No recipe to suggest today. Cooking has somewhat fallen out of the radar in the past few days. I need new ideas, or a serious make-over of the old ones. Maybe it's time to turn our attention to the bbq? Or the fondu pot? Or paella, risotto, couscous, lasagna, chili, enchiladas, potage, noooo!!!!!! I think I'll pull out the good old Moosewood book (cooks at home) and resuscitate ancient favorites. If I have a moment of Moosewood enlightenment, I will be sure to share it!
I made my way to the Kensington market a couple of times lately, it's a very nice walk and it feels great to buy produce there. Now if only I could make it to the YMCA... I know I can do it! Maybe tomorrow : )
Family life is good, Dylan and his team won the hockey championship this morning! Heather came over and had a very nice homework session with Léo, while Tim was teaching music to Zach. It's a perfect exchange, works very well so far.
Tonight is Pizza and Juno night, with a fire log.
Travel plans will soon begin for my next trip to Yucatan, a teaching project. I'm not sure how the Spanish section of the business will develop over the next few years, but I know it will click in it's place eventually. It's a long time dream and it feels beautifully right, so I'm doing it!
No recipe to suggest today. Cooking has somewhat fallen out of the radar in the past few days. I need new ideas, or a serious make-over of the old ones. Maybe it's time to turn our attention to the bbq? Or the fondu pot? Or paella, risotto, couscous, lasagna, chili, enchiladas, potage, noooo!!!!!! I think I'll pull out the good old Moosewood book (cooks at home) and resuscitate ancient favorites. If I have a moment of Moosewood enlightenment, I will be sure to share it!
I made my way to the Kensington market a couple of times lately, it's a very nice walk and it feels great to buy produce there. Now if only I could make it to the YMCA... I know I can do it! Maybe tomorrow : )
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Blueberry Treat for Tax Time!
Almost six weeks since we've returned to Toronto. I think that I'm finally getting my footing, it did not feel like a smooth landing. A lot to juggle with in a short period of time, and emotions running high. March break was good, and as crazy as it may sound - I needed it. I blame it all on the super moon!
We had a nice gathering of friends at our house at the beginning of March, a belated new year party with a Mexican twist. Very good to reconnect with everyone, we're lucky people to have so many good friends. Learning to enjoy life better is very much about taking the time to see my friends more often. It's so easy to get completely focused on family and work, I must step out once in awhile.
There is plenty of work to be done, and I keep chipping at it - sometimes in big chunks and sometimes not so much, but always chipping. Le Petit Atelier is growing, and things are looking very good for next year. More teachers to spread the music, and some much needed administrative assistance. But first things first, I am making a grand round of meetings with each of my clients, and pursuing strong leads for new ones. Slowly but surely!
Oh yeah, this reminds me... it's tax time. Crud.
Okay, now that I mentioned the 'T' word, I have to make-up for it I guess... So here is an old family recipe!
I have pulled this one out from my childhood memories - Pouding aux bleuets. I had not made this in over 20 years, and when one of my good friends wanted an idea to use her blueberries and raspberries to make a dessert, I had a flashback. It's basically a cake baked on a bed of fruit, and served warm with yogurt or ice cream. I know I know... I did say this before... But this one is really very delicious too : )
Blueberry 'Pouding'
Poor 2 cups of blueberries (or other berries) in a 'crown' baking pan, and sprinkle with sugar or honey. In a bowl mix together 1 cup of sugar (or half and half white and brown sugar), 1 cup of flour, 2 tsp of baking powder and 1/4 tsp of salt. In a measuring cup, melt 3/4 cup of butter, add 2 eggs, and fill with milk up to 1 cup. Mix with dry ingredients until smooth and creamy, and poor evenly on the fruit. Spread the dough with a fork as needed, and bake in the oven at 350F for 55 minutes. Let it cool for 10 or 15 minutes, and serve with ice cream - or with yogurt and fresh fruit! Oh yes!
We had a nice gathering of friends at our house at the beginning of March, a belated new year party with a Mexican twist. Very good to reconnect with everyone, we're lucky people to have so many good friends. Learning to enjoy life better is very much about taking the time to see my friends more often. It's so easy to get completely focused on family and work, I must step out once in awhile.
There is plenty of work to be done, and I keep chipping at it - sometimes in big chunks and sometimes not so much, but always chipping. Le Petit Atelier is growing, and things are looking very good for next year. More teachers to spread the music, and some much needed administrative assistance. But first things first, I am making a grand round of meetings with each of my clients, and pursuing strong leads for new ones. Slowly but surely!
Oh yeah, this reminds me... it's tax time. Crud.
Okay, now that I mentioned the 'T' word, I have to make-up for it I guess... So here is an old family recipe!
I have pulled this one out from my childhood memories - Pouding aux bleuets. I had not made this in over 20 years, and when one of my good friends wanted an idea to use her blueberries and raspberries to make a dessert, I had a flashback. It's basically a cake baked on a bed of fruit, and served warm with yogurt or ice cream. I know I know... I did say this before... But this one is really very delicious too : )
Blueberry 'Pouding'
Poor 2 cups of blueberries (or other berries) in a 'crown' baking pan, and sprinkle with sugar or honey. In a bowl mix together 1 cup of sugar (or half and half white and brown sugar), 1 cup of flour, 2 tsp of baking powder and 1/4 tsp of salt. In a measuring cup, melt 3/4 cup of butter, add 2 eggs, and fill with milk up to 1 cup. Mix with dry ingredients until smooth and creamy, and poor evenly on the fruit. Spread the dough with a fork as needed, and bake in the oven at 350F for 55 minutes. Let it cool for 10 or 15 minutes, and serve with ice cream - or with yogurt and fresh fruit! Oh yes!
Monday, March 14, 2011
More Tips - Best Yucatan Accommodations
It seems that many of my blog readers are looking for those specific travel tips. I have done extensive research on accommodations and for having tried many, by now I can certainly provide a very straight forward list of accommodations with comments - which hopefully be very useful for your planning. So here it is for the state of Yucatan !
NOTE - for the state of Quintana Roo, see the July 2 post: More Tips - Quintana Roo Accommodations!
WHERE TO STAY IN MERIDA
Hotel Caribe : excellent location tucked in the little Hidalgo Park, one block from the main square and the Cathedral, swimming pool on the roof, good restaurant, pricing is about $65 to $85 per night for a family of four. What I love the most about this hotel is that the old time Trova musicians of Merida meet there in the restaurant every day during siesta time, and casually sing their favorite songs around the table. http://www.hotelcaribe.com.mx/
Hotel Luz en Yucatan : located just around the corner from Santa-Lucia Park and Church, and walking distance to the central square. This is one hotel which you would not find by walking the streets since it only has a small sign by the main door - and an intercom buzzer. Once you enter, you discover a quaint and tasteful property with a swimming pool in the central courtyard, surrounded by many unique rooms and apartments. Note that they do have units with kitchen - highly recommended if you spend more than 2 or 3 nights in this great city. Pricing is about $65 to $85 per night for a family of four. http://www.luzenyucatan.com/
Casa Mango : Get your own house! Located just by the beautiful Paseo de Montejo Avenue, a 90 second walk to the Museum of Anthropology, and about 15 minute walk to the central square - this 2 bedroom house is perfect for a family of four. It has a nice little garden with a small swimming pool, a washing machine and clothes line, wifi and cable television. Pricing is about $400 for one week (+ electricity) - can't go wrong with that! This is our number one choice when we go to Merida.
http://www.vacationrentals.com/vacation-rentals/44949.html
NOTE: I was informed that Casa Mango has been rented for one year, not sure when it will be available again - you should inquire if you are planning on going in 2012.
WHERE TO STAY ON THE GULF COAST - Telchac Puerto
Casa Zuno : a great two bedroom house on the beach, with a good size pool, wireless, satellite tv, full laundry room, fenced property with garden patio and rooftop terrace - and very comfortable furniture. When the four of us will go back to Telchac, this will be our number one choice. http://www.kab-yucatan.com/zuno.html
Villa Las Tunas : A wonderful beach property, three bedroom house with plenty of comfortable outdoor living space, and pool. It is very cosy and comfortable, has a lot of character - unlike the many 'square' and modern style rental homes on the coast. Highly recommended! http://www.kab-yucatan.com/las_tunas.html
Casa Kasper : A big four bedroom beach house with good size pool, great for two families. Each bedroom has a full bathroom, and like the other recommended houses above, Kasper has very comfortable furniture, inside and out! The photos don't do it justice, it is much more spacious than it seems. Very very nice! http://www.kab-yucatan.com/kasper.html
NOTE - The three recommended beach properties above are available with Ka'b Yucatan - a very reliable rental agency. Rest assured that your vacation is in good hands with Ka'b - with clear and timely communication, excellent and prompt service on site, and top notch properties. http://www.kab-yucatan.com
OTHER RECOMMENDED ACCOMMODATIONS IN YUCATAN
Rancho Kalax-Wayak : A big and beautiful four bedroom property with a big swimming pool, located on an 800 acre historic family ranch which was once a thriving henequen hacienda. Horse back riding right on site! This is actually almost too good to be true, and well worth getting a bit adventurous and explore the country side. Your care takers are the ranchers, very friendly and helpful. The ranch house is located about 20 minute drive to the pretty town of Izamal, a true jewel of both ancient and colonial Yucatan - my favorite town. And it's only about 45 minutes to Chichen Itza, with many cenotes on the way. Kalax-Wayak is unique, comfortable and very spacious. Pricing is excellent for a family of four, and the property is perfect for two families. If you can manage some basic Spanish to communicate with the ranchers, you should treat yourself to a stay at Kalax-Wayak. Owners speak very good English. http://www.wayakyucatan.com/
In Valladolid - Hotel Maria de la Luz : Simple and clean, with a great pool and good restaurant, and indoor parking - this nice hotel is located in the central square of Valladolid. Make it your headquarters to explore the vicinity, and take the time to visit the municipal palace to learn about the history of the town- which was home to a great Maya revolution. Pricing is about $50 for a family of four, with buffet breakfast (the only one in Valladolid!). http://www.mariadelaluzhotel.com/
Hope this is helpful! Next tips will be for accommodations in the state of Quintana Roo. Saludos!
NOTE - for the state of Quintana Roo, see the July 2 post: More Tips - Quintana Roo Accommodations!
WHERE TO STAY IN MERIDA
Hotel Caribe : excellent location tucked in the little Hidalgo Park, one block from the main square and the Cathedral, swimming pool on the roof, good restaurant, pricing is about $65 to $85 per night for a family of four. What I love the most about this hotel is that the old time Trova musicians of Merida meet there in the restaurant every day during siesta time, and casually sing their favorite songs around the table. http://www.hotelcaribe.com.mx/
Hotel Luz en Yucatan : located just around the corner from Santa-Lucia Park and Church, and walking distance to the central square. This is one hotel which you would not find by walking the streets since it only has a small sign by the main door - and an intercom buzzer. Once you enter, you discover a quaint and tasteful property with a swimming pool in the central courtyard, surrounded by many unique rooms and apartments. Note that they do have units with kitchen - highly recommended if you spend more than 2 or 3 nights in this great city. Pricing is about $65 to $85 per night for a family of four. http://www.luzenyucatan.com/
Casa Mango : Get your own house! Located just by the beautiful Paseo de Montejo Avenue, a 90 second walk to the Museum of Anthropology, and about 15 minute walk to the central square - this 2 bedroom house is perfect for a family of four. It has a nice little garden with a small swimming pool, a washing machine and clothes line, wifi and cable television. Pricing is about $400 for one week (+ electricity) - can't go wrong with that! This is our number one choice when we go to Merida.
http://www.vacationrentals.com/vacation-rentals/44949.html
NOTE: I was informed that Casa Mango has been rented for one year, not sure when it will be available again - you should inquire if you are planning on going in 2012.
WHERE TO STAY ON THE GULF COAST - Telchac Puerto
Casa Zuno : a great two bedroom house on the beach, with a good size pool, wireless, satellite tv, full laundry room, fenced property with garden patio and rooftop terrace - and very comfortable furniture. When the four of us will go back to Telchac, this will be our number one choice. http://www.kab-yucatan.com/zuno.html
Villa Las Tunas : A wonderful beach property, three bedroom house with plenty of comfortable outdoor living space, and pool. It is very cosy and comfortable, has a lot of character - unlike the many 'square' and modern style rental homes on the coast. Highly recommended! http://www.kab-yucatan.com/las_tunas.html
Casa Kasper : A big four bedroom beach house with good size pool, great for two families. Each bedroom has a full bathroom, and like the other recommended houses above, Kasper has very comfortable furniture, inside and out! The photos don't do it justice, it is much more spacious than it seems. Very very nice! http://www.kab-yucatan.com/kasper.html
NOTE - The three recommended beach properties above are available with Ka'b Yucatan - a very reliable rental agency. Rest assured that your vacation is in good hands with Ka'b - with clear and timely communication, excellent and prompt service on site, and top notch properties. http://www.kab-yucatan.com
OTHER RECOMMENDED ACCOMMODATIONS IN YUCATAN
Rancho Kalax-Wayak : A big and beautiful four bedroom property with a big swimming pool, located on an 800 acre historic family ranch which was once a thriving henequen hacienda. Horse back riding right on site! This is actually almost too good to be true, and well worth getting a bit adventurous and explore the country side. Your care takers are the ranchers, very friendly and helpful. The ranch house is located about 20 minute drive to the pretty town of Izamal, a true jewel of both ancient and colonial Yucatan - my favorite town. And it's only about 45 minutes to Chichen Itza, with many cenotes on the way. Kalax-Wayak is unique, comfortable and very spacious. Pricing is excellent for a family of four, and the property is perfect for two families. If you can manage some basic Spanish to communicate with the ranchers, you should treat yourself to a stay at Kalax-Wayak. Owners speak very good English. http://www.wayakyucatan.com/
In Valladolid - Hotel Maria de la Luz : Simple and clean, with a great pool and good restaurant, and indoor parking - this nice hotel is located in the central square of Valladolid. Make it your headquarters to explore the vicinity, and take the time to visit the municipal palace to learn about the history of the town- which was home to a great Maya revolution. Pricing is about $50 for a family of four, with buffet breakfast (the only one in Valladolid!). http://www.mariadelaluzhotel.com/
Hope this is helpful! Next tips will be for accommodations in the state of Quintana Roo. Saludos!
Monday, March 7, 2011
Tips for Traveling Families - Renting a car
Yes, renting a car is a very good idea. It gives you plenty of freedom to explore, and most roads are very good in the Yucatan peninsula.
We flew to the Cancun airport, which is big and therefore a great location for many car rental companies. I booked our rental car using Kayak.com, and had a choice between many great deals ($10 to $15 per day). The rental was for 3 months, and the price was excellent. Although I did forget to budget for liability insurance... you should inquire about that when renting a car in Mexico!
The car pick-up was great, no delays or glitches, and we drove to our first destination right on time. However some friends who visited us later had a bad surprise with their car rental : when they booked on line they indicated an arrival time of noon, but actually arrived at 2pm. Despite the fact that there was email communication - with the right arrival time - prior to their arrival, the company's booking was based on that initial reservation with the wrong arrival time. As a result, their car was no longer available and they had to settle for the only one on hand : a very small 2 door economy model (for their family of 4...). Nope, they did not get a discounted price either. So when making a booking on line for a car rental, make sure that you indicate the right arrival time - and/or get a confirmation a couple of days prior to your departure.
So back to our car rental. About 3 weeks in, we had a flat tire - the tire was split open and the rim was dented, and we discovered that the spare also had a dented rim - not good. I emailed the Manager, and after a few exchanges he sent one of his guys to deliver a replacement car. Now that sounds like the usual kind of service one would expect - but we were in a very secluded location, and far from the service point. So to make the exchange, we drove 2 hours to get to the meeting point, and he drove FIVE HOURS to get there! Now, that's customer service!!!!
The company is Blue Way, which I understand is a Budget affiliate. I read horrible things about them on Trip Advisor (as other car rental companies), but I must say that our experience with them was very positive.
If you are planning on driving in Mexico, it is common practice to have a laminated colour photocopy of your driver's license. Yes, it's illegal to produce a fake driver's license... and so is bribing a police officer - also common practice. If you get arrested, appear apologetic and very cooperative. Hand out your fake license, which he will probably keep and proceed to tell you that you will have to go to the police station to retrieve it and pay your find. Now you are very concerned... Write down the info, and his name and badge number. When he seems to bring closure to the affair and walk away, you can drive and giggle away.
If you do not have a fake license, ask politely if there is any way to settle this matter, while discretely slipping $10 or $20 in his hand.
You may also come across some army check points in Yucatan and Quintana Roo - not to worry. You get out of the car if they ask you to, a few of them will check you car while you speak with the one in charge. They are looking for drugs. My advice on that front: try to resist picking-up hitch hikers!
And last but not least - Avoid driving at night since many old cars and trucks don't have lights, and many roads are not lit. And of course...mind the topes at all times!!! These speed bumps are in every village, and they are very effective in slowing down the traffic!
Driving in the Yucatan peninsula is a great experience. For having done so many times, I highly recommend it.
We flew to the Cancun airport, which is big and therefore a great location for many car rental companies. I booked our rental car using Kayak.com, and had a choice between many great deals ($10 to $15 per day). The rental was for 3 months, and the price was excellent. Although I did forget to budget for liability insurance... you should inquire about that when renting a car in Mexico!
The car pick-up was great, no delays or glitches, and we drove to our first destination right on time. However some friends who visited us later had a bad surprise with their car rental : when they booked on line they indicated an arrival time of noon, but actually arrived at 2pm. Despite the fact that there was email communication - with the right arrival time - prior to their arrival, the company's booking was based on that initial reservation with the wrong arrival time. As a result, their car was no longer available and they had to settle for the only one on hand : a very small 2 door economy model (for their family of 4...). Nope, they did not get a discounted price either. So when making a booking on line for a car rental, make sure that you indicate the right arrival time - and/or get a confirmation a couple of days prior to your departure.
So back to our car rental. About 3 weeks in, we had a flat tire - the tire was split open and the rim was dented, and we discovered that the spare also had a dented rim - not good. I emailed the Manager, and after a few exchanges he sent one of his guys to deliver a replacement car. Now that sounds like the usual kind of service one would expect - but we were in a very secluded location, and far from the service point. So to make the exchange, we drove 2 hours to get to the meeting point, and he drove FIVE HOURS to get there! Now, that's customer service!!!!
The company is Blue Way, which I understand is a Budget affiliate. I read horrible things about them on Trip Advisor (as other car rental companies), but I must say that our experience with them was very positive.
If you are planning on driving in Mexico, it is common practice to have a laminated colour photocopy of your driver's license. Yes, it's illegal to produce a fake driver's license... and so is bribing a police officer - also common practice. If you get arrested, appear apologetic and very cooperative. Hand out your fake license, which he will probably keep and proceed to tell you that you will have to go to the police station to retrieve it and pay your find. Now you are very concerned... Write down the info, and his name and badge number. When he seems to bring closure to the affair and walk away, you can drive and giggle away.
If you do not have a fake license, ask politely if there is any way to settle this matter, while discretely slipping $10 or $20 in his hand.
You may also come across some army check points in Yucatan and Quintana Roo - not to worry. You get out of the car if they ask you to, a few of them will check you car while you speak with the one in charge. They are looking for drugs. My advice on that front: try to resist picking-up hitch hikers!
And last but not least - Avoid driving at night since many old cars and trucks don't have lights, and many roads are not lit. And of course...mind the topes at all times!!! These speed bumps are in every village, and they are very effective in slowing down the traffic!
Driving in the Yucatan peninsula is a great experience. For having done so many times, I highly recommend it.
Saturday, March 5, 2011
Los Azules
The blues. It had to happen sooner or later! This week has been stressful, and I know very well that it's only my Toronto life kicking into gear. It's not going to quiet down magically any time soon.
We are having a casual party tomorrow, and I am preparing a big taco feast for the occasion. I miss the Mexico markets, filled with so many beautiful fresh produce, and so cheap! I paid close to $1 per avocado here, and I remember paying 5 cents in the public market a few weeks ago. They are Mexican avocados at least, and I guess we all have to pay for the flight! I also miss the 'real' fruit - like oranges with seeds, and that have not beed spray painted to be perfectly orange all over. Everything has seeds there, as it should be. The grapes, cucumbers and watermelons, and I was uncomfortable with the fact that the kids were not used to that. What a strange part of the world we live in...
I should go out of my way to shop at the Kensington Market. I will try to work that into my weekly schedule.
So the many dishes I am preparing will be a Toronto adaptation of the originals, but still pretty satisfying.
Time to go, still a lot to do - and I really want to sort a bunch of photos to set-up a looping slide show on out lap top. Will that make me bluer? We shall see.
We are having a casual party tomorrow, and I am preparing a big taco feast for the occasion. I miss the Mexico markets, filled with so many beautiful fresh produce, and so cheap! I paid close to $1 per avocado here, and I remember paying 5 cents in the public market a few weeks ago. They are Mexican avocados at least, and I guess we all have to pay for the flight! I also miss the 'real' fruit - like oranges with seeds, and that have not beed spray painted to be perfectly orange all over. Everything has seeds there, as it should be. The grapes, cucumbers and watermelons, and I was uncomfortable with the fact that the kids were not used to that. What a strange part of the world we live in...
I should go out of my way to shop at the Kensington Market. I will try to work that into my weekly schedule.
So the many dishes I am preparing will be a Toronto adaptation of the originals, but still pretty satisfying.
Time to go, still a lot to do - and I really want to sort a bunch of photos to set-up a looping slide show on out lap top. Will that make me bluer? We shall see.
Friday, March 4, 2011
Tortilleria
I went to take a peek into 'La Tortilleria' yesterday, very happy that it's in my Toronto neighbouthood! As soon as I walked in, the great perfume of fresh corn tortillas filled my soul and made me feel so good - I love that... one of those little things that bring instant happiness. When I saw the sign it reminded me that the word 'tortilleria' was one that I worked on while in Mexico. I had to deconstruct it and practice - tor-ti-ye-ri-a... (I used to say torteleria... which is something else altogether, but easier to say).
So La Tortilleria is located at 1009 Dufferin Street, just South of Bloor. Open 7 days a week! They have other locations too, halleluja! You can check out their web site at www.latortilleria.ca
I'm certainly planning a taco feast this weekend - yum!
So La Tortilleria is located at 1009 Dufferin Street, just South of Bloor. Open 7 days a week! They have other locations too, halleluja! You can check out their web site at www.latortilleria.ca
I'm certainly planning a taco feast this weekend - yum!
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Tips for Traveling Families - Smart Phone... home!
This one tip resumes to a very simple advice : Leave your iPhone at home!!!
We had two laptops and had internet access with the accommodations we had rented - except for the five weeks we spent at the Ranch. So I used my iPhone carefully (there was a volatile cell signal) and for very short sessions - turning the roaming off as soon as I was done. I knew that there was a cost to this service of course, but as I was very careful I thought that I was managing that expense wisely. Wrong! Roaming charges are outrageous and plain indecent, now I know. I came home to a $960 Rogers bill (international data roaming usage). Ouch!
I spoke to a few people, friends who had experienced the same thing, and I was advised to ask for upper management or the 'retention department' at Rogers - which I did. My angle is this:
Why was I given access to a very expensive service without my consent? I would rather not have access to it, and be forced to shop for a package which would make me an informed customer. I run two businesses and when I send an invoice to my clients, it reflects the cost they have agreed to for the services they are getting. Isn't that the proper etiquette in any commercial exchange?
Furthermore, as leaders in this type of technology Rogers have no excuse for not managing their customers access. Even if it was just a matter of receiving a text outlining the cost of the first session when abroad, it would be a reasonable way to flag the cost to the customers so that they can manage accordingly. I find it very dishonest to claim that the use of this service is my responsibility, when I was never informed of the cost - and especially such a high cost. Sneaky sneaky, and obviously twisting the legal boundaries of the client-supplier relationship.
So I called and spoke to a Manager, and I was very lucky to get a guy who did not want to hear my lengthy story and argument... asking me straight out if I was looking for a favour with this problem of mine. Oh, well... Yes actually! (Thank God for time management freaks!) He put me on hold for a couple of minutes, and came back to announce that he cut the bill in half. A very big effort here... okay. I could pursue it and try to get all the charges waved. But that would require a few hours on the phone - and I would rather spend my precious time focusing on my business cash flow...
I file this one under the 'expensive lessons' section, and I hope that others can learn from it too.
In Mexico a cell phone costs about $30, and you can purchase usage cards which are loaded with the amount you decide to put on it. There are also many internet cafes in most towns - even some little remote pueblos have that service available in their municipal building - and a session will cost you 50 to 70 cents.
The next time I travel to Mexico - or anywhere else for that matter- my iPhone will stay behind.
We had two laptops and had internet access with the accommodations we had rented - except for the five weeks we spent at the Ranch. So I used my iPhone carefully (there was a volatile cell signal) and for very short sessions - turning the roaming off as soon as I was done. I knew that there was a cost to this service of course, but as I was very careful I thought that I was managing that expense wisely. Wrong! Roaming charges are outrageous and plain indecent, now I know. I came home to a $960 Rogers bill (international data roaming usage). Ouch!
I spoke to a few people, friends who had experienced the same thing, and I was advised to ask for upper management or the 'retention department' at Rogers - which I did. My angle is this:
Why was I given access to a very expensive service without my consent? I would rather not have access to it, and be forced to shop for a package which would make me an informed customer. I run two businesses and when I send an invoice to my clients, it reflects the cost they have agreed to for the services they are getting. Isn't that the proper etiquette in any commercial exchange?
Furthermore, as leaders in this type of technology Rogers have no excuse for not managing their customers access. Even if it was just a matter of receiving a text outlining the cost of the first session when abroad, it would be a reasonable way to flag the cost to the customers so that they can manage accordingly. I find it very dishonest to claim that the use of this service is my responsibility, when I was never informed of the cost - and especially such a high cost. Sneaky sneaky, and obviously twisting the legal boundaries of the client-supplier relationship.
So I called and spoke to a Manager, and I was very lucky to get a guy who did not want to hear my lengthy story and argument... asking me straight out if I was looking for a favour with this problem of mine. Oh, well... Yes actually! (Thank God for time management freaks!) He put me on hold for a couple of minutes, and came back to announce that he cut the bill in half. A very big effort here... okay. I could pursue it and try to get all the charges waved. But that would require a few hours on the phone - and I would rather spend my precious time focusing on my business cash flow...
I file this one under the 'expensive lessons' section, and I hope that others can learn from it too.
In Mexico a cell phone costs about $30, and you can purchase usage cards which are loaded with the amount you decide to put on it. There are also many internet cafes in most towns - even some little remote pueblos have that service available in their municipal building - and a session will cost you 50 to 70 cents.
The next time I travel to Mexico - or anywhere else for that matter- my iPhone will stay behind.
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