Know how to do and where to find things!: September 2010

Sunday, 19 September 2010

How to read web pages in foreign language?

The easiest way to translate websites into your language - is by using quick free tool from Google - Google Translate: https://translate.google.com

Google's online language translation service instantly translates text and web pages.
Google Translate is a free online translation service that provides instant translations between 57 different languages. It can translate words, sentences and web pages between any combination of our supported languages. Google Translate helps to make information universally accessible and useful, regardless of the language in which it’s written.

Google Translate currently supports 57 languages:

Afrikaans
Albanian
Arabic
Belarusian
Bulgarian
Catalan
Chinese
Croatian
Czech
Danish
Dutch

English
Estonian
Filipino
Finnish
French
Galician
German
Greek
Hebrew
Hindi
Hungarian

Icelandic
Indonesian
Irish
Italian
Japanese
Korean
Latvian
Lithuanian
Macedonian
Malay
Maltese

Norwegian
Persian
Polish
Portuguese
Romanian
Russian
Serbian
Slovak
Slovenian
Spanish
Swahili

Swedish
Thai
Turkish
Ukrainian
Vietnamese
Welsh
Yiddish

Current alpha languages are:

Armenian
Azerbaijani

Basque
Georgian

Haitian Creole
Urdu

Google Translate tests other languages, called "alpha languages", that may have less-reliable translation quality than our supported languages. Google is always working to support other languages and will introduce them as soon as the translation quality meets their standards.

Saturday, 18 September 2010

Which bank accounts can be accessed at the Post Office®? (United Kingdom)

Relatively simple question, but I found it difficult to find the answer when I needed it.
This information is really useful if you live long distance from your local bank branch, but your Post Office® is closer or may be you wanted to access you bank account in unfamiliar location and Post Office® appears to be easier to locate.
Whatever your circumstances here is the answer to the above question:

Withdraw money

It’s free and convenient to withdraw cash from your bank account when you’re in the Post Office^®, if you have one of the following accounts:

Current and basic accounts
Bank of Ireland, Bank of Scotland, Barclays, Clydesdale Bank, Danske Bank, First Direct, First Trust Bank, Halifax, HSBC, Lloyds Bank, Nationwide Building Society, Natwest, Santander, Smile (current account only), The Co-operative Bank, The Royal Bank of Scotland, TSB Bank, Ulster Bank, Virgin Money, Yorkshire Bank

Pay in cash and cheques

Pay in money if you have one of the following accounts:

Current and basic accounts
Bank of Ireland, Barclays, CAF Bank (cheque only), Cahoot (current account only), Clydesdale Bank, Danske Bank, First Direct, Halifax, HSBC, Lloyds Bank, Natwest, Santander, Smile (current account only), The Co-operative Bank, The Royal Bank of Scotland, TSB Bank, Virgin Money (cash only), Yorkshire Bank

Check your balance

Check your balance whenever you’re in the Post Office^®.

Got a bank account? It’s free to pay in and withdraw money and check your balance at the Post Office® with many bank accounts – and the list is growing all the time.

quick, simple and safe to pay in and withdraw money
take cash out up to your daily card limit (subject to your available funds)
withdraw the exact amount you need
pop in to check your balance

More information about free way to access your bank account at the Post Office® counter: https://www.postoffice.co.uk/branch-banking-services

Many pre paid credit card issuers can be reloaded via the Post Office. Some card issuers charge a fee for Post Office reloads.

Friday, 17 September 2010

How to find cheapest flight tickets?

Go online - go to MyFlightPal and search for your flight tickets!

MyFlightPal offers some of the best flight deals around.

MyFlightPal is a company that changes the travel industry! They are are the pioneers in virtual interlining and with their unique algorithm, they are able to create millions of flight combinations. Moreover, enhanced user-friendly design helps their customers to adjust various parameters and find the flight combination created particularly for them. With an extensive database of low-cost flights and traditional airlines, interactive map, and guaranteed arrival, the user experience skyrockets to another level.

Currently you can search cheap flights using MyFlightPal in CANADA, FRANCE, GERMANY, INDIA, INDONESIA, SPAIN, SWEDEN, UNITED KINGDOM, UNITED STATES!

Thursday, 16 September 2010

How to unblock a drain in minutes?

There are many ways to unblock drains.
General recommendation: act before the blockage is total, as a total block makes getting unblocking chemicals to the blockage difficult to impractical.

The most common drain blocking materials are: fat, hair and matted fibres which can be cleared by caustic soda, rodding, or physical removal with hand or sticks.

I can strongly recommend caustic soda (Sodium Hydroxide) as fastest and cheap unblocking solution.

Caustic eats fats, which are the most common blocker of kitchen sinks, but I found it highly effective against all other major blocking materials like hair and matted fibres etc. Hence, it is very useful when it comes to unblocking bathroom sink and bath tube drain pipes.

Boiling caustic is much faster than cold caustic. I never use direction for use which is given on package of caustic soda - it says to dissolve 500g of caustic in 5 litres of cold water, mix it, pour the solution down drain, leave for 30 minutes then flush with water (preferably hot).
Instead, I would carefully open the tub, release volume equivalent to about two table spoons of caustic soda pearls straight into the drain and gradually pour entire boiling kettle of water in to the drain hole. Please be aware that it is important to pour no more than about quoter of a cattle at time and move out of reach of possible splashes, as the reaction of caustic and hot water is quite strong and if you put too much water at one time there could be effect of a small volcano. By the time of pouring the remaining water from the kettle the drain should be unblocked, just finish off with flushing hot water (e.g. form the tap) for about 0.5-1 minute to finish the procedure. This method is not best suitable for blocked toilets.
The whole process of unblocking a drain with caustic soda should not take longer than 3-4 minutes.

In UK you can buy caustic soda in many local hardware/convenience stores or chain DIY supermarkets like HOMBASE, B&Q. I find caustic soda from HOMEBASE (it is also available on Amazon in bigger volumes) to work best as it represents caustic soda in its pure form, not any caustic soda based "magic drain unblocking solution".

Caustic is a high risk chemical. It burns skin and can cause serious eye damage.
If you get any at all in your eye, it is important to seek treatment urgently. Delay in treatment (it doesn't hurt) generally results in serious irreversible damage.
Caustic soda is a strong alkali.
Never mix a strong alkali with an acid.
Eye protection recommended.

More information about ways to unblock drains: http://wiki.diyfaq.org.uk/index.php?title=Unblock_a_Drain

Wednesday, 15 September 2010

How to make and receive Skype video calls without a computer? (any country)

You can make and receive Skype video calls without a computer - just get Asus Videophone Touch AiGuru SV1T (the picture above) - touchscreen videophone for Skype. This phone is Skype certified.

This phone is ideal for someone who does not want or cannot use a computer, so it is invaluable for older generation (mums, dads, grandparents and other relatives).

The first touchscreen videophone fully integrated with Skype – no computer required. Make free Skype-to-Skype video and voice calls. Call landlines and mobiles at great low rates with Skype Credit or with a monthly subscription.

Features

Multiple language interface.
Free Skype-to-Skype video calls.
Touchscreen.
No computer required.
Built-in screen, microphone, webcam and speakerphone.
Portable, with rechargeable battery.
Connect wirelessly or via a network cable.
Call forwarding.
Voicemail.
Conference calls (as a guest only).

Requirements

Internet connection: broadband internet connection with open port on router/modem. (Voice and video quality may vary depending on the connection speed).

Tuesday, 14 September 2010

How to make and receive Skype calls without a computer? (any country)

You can make and receive Skype calls without a computer - just get RTX DUALphone 3088 (the picture above). This phone is Skype certified and along with Skype calls it supports landline calls too!

This phone is ideal for someone who does not want or cannot use a computer, so it is invaluable for older generation (mums, dads, grandparents and other relatives).

The RTX Dualphone is an all-in-one solution for Skype and landline calls. This phone is future proof - with built-in Skype software, integral speakerphone, cordless functionality and award-winning design.

Features

Skype calls without a computer.
Regular landline calls.
Cordless phones.
Indoor range 50m; outdoor range 300m from base station.
More than 10 hours talk time; up to 100 hours standby time.
Color LCD screen.
DECT wireless technology - won’t interfere with WiFi networks.
Award winning Danish design.
Supports Skype features like online numbers, calls to phones, voicemail call history, status and other features.
Contact list for both Skype and landline numbers, automatically synchronized with your Skype account.
Automatic software updates.
High quality speakerphone.
Option to use with serial headset.

Requirements

Broadband internet connection with open port on router/modem.
Landline service (to make landline calls in addition to Skype calls).

This phone does not support Skype video calls.

Monday, 13 September 2010

How to call toll free numbers for free without a landline? (United Kingdom)

There are a lot of services in UK which you can contact by dialling toll free telephone numbers (e.g. 0800 ...), but it could be quite expensive if you don't have a landline and decide to use your mobile instead.
This used to cost up to 35 p/min, but currently most operators do include calls to 0800 numbers into your UK minutes allowance.

Another alternative is Skype, it allows you to make calls to toll free numbers for free (currently up to 5 minutes).

Sunday, 12 September 2010

How to save money on grocery shopping? (United Kingdom)

You probably aware that grocery shopping bill is one of the biggest for your household, but you can save significantly by shopping in different supermarkets and buying for the most competitive price.
To find out the best prices for the things you buy use free convenient comparison website: My Supermarket
The above website allows to compare supermarket prices & save money while shopping from Tesco, ASDA, Sainsbury's, Waitrose, Ocado, Aldi, Poundland, Iceland, Morrison's, Boots or Superdrug.

While comparing products you can checkout at My Supermarket at the end of their shop and their basket will be transferred to the relevant supermarket’s own website for payment processing.

Saturday, 11 September 2010

How to receive wages without bank account? (United Kingdom)

Cashplus was founded in 2005, as the original UK challenger to high street banks, when they launched the UK's first general purpose prepaid card. Within 2 years Cashplus was a principal member of Mastercard, and the business has gone from strength to strength ever since.

Whether you are looking for Personal or Business Banking services, Cashplus offer real time services to help them manage your money 24/7 through their mobile app. They give 100% guaranteed approval once verified, there are no credit checks, applications can be completed in less than 5 minutes, and the customer gets instant access to a sort code and account number.
Their customers also have access to the largest 'over the counter' banking network in the UK, through the Post Office, and can rest easy in the knowledge that Cashplus is fully authorised and regulated by the FCA with their funds safeguarded and kept in a regulated bank account.

Most popular products are:

Friday, 10 September 2010

How to beat Ryanair booking fee?

Please read this post for more information:
http://www.knowhowinaction.com/2010/09/how-to-get-mastercard-prepaid-card.html

Up-to-date information on Ryanair booking fee: No credit card fee applies when paying with a debit card or SEPA bank transfer (Germany only).
Bookings paid for by PayPal, American Express, credit card or a Mastercard Prepaid card will incur a fee of 2% of the total transaction value.

Thursday, 9 September 2010

How to get Mastercard prepaid card without credit history? (United Kingdom)

Mastercard debit card without credit chec

Cashplus was founded in 2005, as the original UK challenger to high street banks, when they launched the UK's first general purpose prepaid card. Within 2 years Cashplus was a principal member of Mastercard, and the business has gone from strength to strength ever since.

Whether you are looking for Personal or Business Banking services, Cashplus offer real time services to help them manage your money 24/7 through their mobile app. They give 100% guaranteed approval once verified, there are no credit checks, applications can be completed in less than 5 minutes, and the customer gets instant access to a sort code and account number.
Their customers also have access to the largest 'over the counter' banking network in the UK, through the Post Office, and can rest easy in the knowledge that Cashplus is fully authorised and regulated by the FCA with their funds safeguarded and kept in a regulated bank account.

Most popular products are:

Wednesday, 8 September 2010

Is there a one place online where digital radio products for the DAB, DAB+, HD and internet radio platforms can be found?

Certainly!
Amazon offers equipment from privately owned designers and manufacturers of award-winning digital radio products for the DAB, DAB+, HD and internet radio platforms. Current products reflect a high degree of importance on the look, feel and ease of use of a radio; using only the best of available materials and components, paying considerable attention to audio quality and using the best of British design talent.

At Amazon website you can buy a range of high tech electronic products including:

digital radios with touchscreen interface and docking for iPod and iPhone;
multi-format portable radios;
World's best self-powered internet radio, with an internal rechargeable battery for cordless, go-anywhere listening freedom;
Wi-Fi internet radios
Spares and accessories for your radio.

All of the above stand as great and stylish gift ideas.

Tuesday, 7 September 2010

What is the official website of the Green Card Lottery (ELECTRONIC DIVERSITY VISA LOTTERY) for US?

Here is the link for the official U.S. Department of State's website of the Green Card Lottery (ELECTRONIC DIVERSITY VISA LOTTERY): http://www.dvlottery.state.gov/

The registration period for the Green Card Lottery normally runs from October 2, through November 30.
DV Entrant Status Check is now available on the above mentioned website - you can check the result if you won Green Card.

More information about the Green Card Lottery programme: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diversity_Immigrant_Visa

Monday, 6 September 2010

Where to find holiday reviews and hotel reviews online?

TripAdvisor (click here) is the world’s largest travel site and one of the most trusted sources of holiday reviews on the net!
It provides a comprehensive travel planning experience. With a loyal userbase and a trusted brand it is the first and last stop for many holiday makers looking at where to go to get some sun.

It offers over 150 million candid traveller reviews of hotels, restaurants, and attractions worldwide with a focus on the traditional package holiday destinations.
Also, it powers a robust flights search engine, hotel compare and check rates search, and vacation rental search.

TripAdvisor is a leading vacation rental website featuring the world’s largest collection of vacation rental guest reviews. TripAdvisor sites currently list more than 630,000 vacation rental properties around the world, which offer travellers great value along with the space, privacy, and amenities of home..

Sunday, 5 September 2010

How to get Mastercard debit card without credit check? (United Kingdom)

Cashplus was founded in 2005, as the original UK challenger to high street banks, when they launched the UK's first general purpose prepaid card. Within 2 years Cashplus was a principal member of Mastercard, and the business has gone from strength to strength ever since.

Whether you are looking for Personal or Business Banking services, Cashplus offer real time services to help them manage your money 24/7 through their mobile app. They give 100% guaranteed approval once verified, there are no credit checks, applications can be completed in less than 5 minutes, and the customer gets instant access to a sort code and account number.
Their customers also have access to the largest 'over the counter' banking network in the UK, through the Post Office, and can rest easy in the knowledge that Cashplus is fully authorised and regulated by the FCA with their funds safeguarded and kept in a regulated bank account.

Most popular products are:

Saturday, 4 September 2010

How to find the best deals on magazine subscriptions?

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Among several places following online service offers discounted subscriptions to the UK's biggest magazines. Customers can save up to 90% on the cover price of their favourite titles. There is a huge choice to cater for all tastes, including gardening, home interest, women's interest, business, current affairs, hobbies, health & fitness and travel.

There are frequent special offers with subscriptions starting from just £1.

Here you can access service which offers a choice of over 950 magazine subscriptions with FREE delivery (click here).

Friday, 3 September 2010

How to grow your own edible mushrooms at home?

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There are two most common ways to produce home-grown gourmet mushrooms in a matter of weeks:

Outdoors - on logs, using plug spawn dowells. In this way you can grow such mushrooms: Shiitake (Lentinula edodes), The Conifer Coral Mushroom (Hericium abietis), The Lion's Mane Mushroom (Hericium erinaceus), The Phoenix Fir Oyster (Pleurotus pulmonarius), Chicken of the Woods (Laetiporus sulphureus), Maitake or Hen of the Woods (Grifola frondosa), Pearl Oyster (Pleurotus ostreatus), Reishi or Ling Chi (Ganoderma lucidum)
Indoors - with a mushroom kit, usually these are supplied complete with everything you need. You can get easy-to-use kits to grow following types of mushrooms: Button Mushrooms (Agaricus bisporus), Chestnut Mushroom, Oysters (Pleurotus species), Shiitake (Lentinula edodes). Mushroom kit normally includes grow box, mushroom culture - pre sown with spawn, and full instructions.