philosophical
foreign family finance
WSA adsense code -->Well, I’ve come back from visiting family in Ireland. On balance I almost made money on the trip. I spent €46 getting from Dublin to the middle of nowhere, where my extended family live, and then about another €60 all told on drinks. Food and accommodation on the weekend itself were family provided, which I knew would pretty much be the case. Other miscellaneous expenses were €45 (gifts, snacks, etc).
I had €65 from previous trips to the Eurozone, and was given €50 on arrival by a family member. The same family member also (very unexpectedly) covered the cost of the flight.
Normally, I’m not happy about accepting gifts of money from family members. I have however, learnt that this particular branch of the family don’t take no for an answer. It’s like some kind of generational transfer, and I know that in return I am, or will be, expected to pass money on to the younger ones.
In my family this way of thinking is particular to the Irish branch, my English relatives aren’t as into giving out or receiving money. I don’t know whether it’s just my family, but I suspect not.
For those of you with family from overseas, how do their money habits compare to your own? Let me know in the comments.
Similar Posts:
- british airways is having a sale
- my friend has bought a house
- too late to have an expensive Christmas?
Tags: Discussion
4 comments for “foreign family finance”
Post a comment
subscribe
use a reader
Our family is in Denmark and Scotland on my side and Germany on my wifes. While we don’t have recent visits I know from our childhood hearing my father talk about the Frugal Danes!
I really just wanted to gush on Ireland though. I had a 4 day trip to Dublin a few years ago and vry much enjoyed the country!
I enjoy Dublin a great deal. I’m not such a big fan of visiting my extended family in rural (but not especially picturesque) Ireland. But then, I’m a city girl at heart.
Welcome back! I didn’t even know you were gone. . .
I just wrote a post on Ireland this morning, though. Somewhat serrendipitous.
Coming from a Chinese heritage, giving money as gifts plays an important part in my culture. A simple example is giving out of red packets during the Chinese New Year celebrations. The custom is only for the red packets to be given to single relatives, and also those younger than you. The red packets will contain money.
They are many other similar customs, especially when it comes to weddings.
By the way, Happy Chinese New Year for the Year of the Rat.