That's actually quite amusing that you mention Hans, as I was just on his website today after not having been in quite some time and I do in fact think I will go with Hans -I just need to check and see what his shipping charges would be (I can imagine, similar to most!).
I am feeling a little less concerned about the water situation recently, have been chatting with different people and it sounds like as long as the filter is mature and the water changes are done and Prime is used, then the ammonia will be taken care of. Adding a filter into the ageing barrel will just make it even easier. We will see!
Thanks for the information about the Tefe - I had a look at them and I think I do actually prefer the look of the Alenquer - however, while I was browsing around Han's page this morning, I came across a type I haven't really seen before - the Dark Angel and I am totally and utterly head over heels in love. I covet!
I had been thinking I would stick to just one or two different types, but at this rate I may be getting one of each as I don't know if I can choose... I also saw his Silver Pigeonblood and that is another one that is ridiculously beautiful. Along with cobalt, checkerboard, snakeskins, eruptions..... you know how it goes. But I will for sure be trying to get at least one Dark Angel and a Silver or a Blue Pigeonblood!