How to map out your job route to Europe

AS unemployment continues its inexorable rise at home, more and more people are considering working abroad.

A new book, Getting a Job in Europe, is a practical guide for those looking for temporary or permanent work within the EC. Written by Phillip Riley, editor of Jobs in Europe magazine, the guide lists useful addresses and tips on how different countries operate. All manner of employment is covered, from traditional student time-fillers such as grape-picking and au pairing, to engineering, computing and medical opportunities.

The country sections describe housing, social life, working conditions, transport, job availability, what newspapers people read and the friendliness of the natives.

It is worth learning that Parisians are noted for their froideur, whereas the Belgians are friendly and relaxed.

And, for example, Italian managers get 33 days of annual leave plus 10 public holidays - more than the French but less than the Austrians, who are tops in the time-off league.

For those seriously interested in pursuing employment prospects abroad, there are suggestions for further reading as well as contacts.

The final checklist includes one of the most important questions: 'Can you speak the language of the country, or are you willing and able to learn it?'

'Getting a Job in Europe' is published by Northcote House Publishers at pounds 7.99.