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Bye Dubai

1996
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 26 October 2011 - 11:12
Ah, DD, you are American. That explains it. We Americans are the only ones who seem to think our home country is much, much better than Dubai. Erm....No Dubai, in many respects, is cheaper than Australia but you would be hard pressed to find an Aussie who says that Dubai is 'better'. Maybe Aussies are able to adapt more easily ( and whinge less ;) ) I don't know ... I'm married to an Aussie who seems to do more than his share of whinging! Maybe many Aussies come for the adventure rather than the money-financially we would be better off back "home" and the job market isn't bad there in my husbaand's field anyway-but it is nice to be here and a bonus to be able to travel to places that we could never afford to get to from home-doing my retirement travel now instead of later!
1996
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 26 October 2011 - 11:12
Ah, DD, you are American. That explains it. We Americans are the only ones who seem to think our home country is much, much better than Dubai. Erm....No Dubai, in many respects, is cheaper than Australia but you would be hard pressed to find an Aussie who says that Dubai is 'better'. Maybe Aussies are able to adapt more easily ( and whinge less ;) ) I don't know ... I'm married to an Aussie who seems to do more than his share of whinging! Maybe many Aussies come for the adventure rather than the money-financially we would be better off back "home" and the job market isn't bad there in my husbaand's field anyway-but it is nice to be here and a bonus to be able to travel to places that we could never afford to get to from home-doing my retirement travel now instead of later!
298
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 26 October 2011 - 10:30
I feel you DD, I kinda feel the same. I have been here for 3 years now, and I am really home sick!!(from UK) I was there for a month in summer and loved it. Being with my family, wow. Here I have no family at all, I look at DS and DD growing up not knowing what it is like to have cousins around him. Being able to play in the garden. And yes the weather sucks, but hey it's not like he can go out to play in summer here either, so I think in a way it balances each other out. Because of his age, magic planet and fun city does not cut it for him any more, we go to other places too, but there is only so much you can do! I miss the green, I miss being on the roads and not having idiots around you. I miss going to the shop and not having rude people barge in front of you, or bash you with their trolley. Yes I know this can happen in the UK too, depending on where you are from. I do like driving my big 4X4 but these things are not what I measure my life by, I don't do mani's and pedi's often, so not missing much there. The things that gets me the most is not being around family esp for the kids! Our situation is a bit of a tricky one, DH hates his job, he comes home frustrated and will sometimes snap at us. Yes he is home by 6 daily, but even when he gets home, he is still working. He is looking for another job, but in this climate, I guess we should count ourselves lucky he has a job. And I know UK is not good at the moment, everyone is telling us we are lucky to be out. So we in the 'fed up of Dubai' mode but can't go home! Aaargh catch 22! Either way I guess your attitude is what determines how your time here will pan out. Now I'm just taking it as it comes. If you hate everything, believe me you will struggle, but at least look at what you can get out of this place, then everyday that goes by may not seem so bad! Good luck to everyone:) I agree with you 100%. I'm in a similar position so I understand completely what you are going through. Good luck too!!!
1238
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 24 October 2011 - 17:30
Ah, DD, you are American. That explains it. We Americans are the only ones who seem to think our home country is much, much better than Dubai. Erm....No Dubai, in many respects, is cheaper than Australia but you would be hard pressed to find an Aussie who says that Dubai is 'better'. Maybe Aussies are able to adapt more easily ( and whinge less ;) ) I don't know ... I'm married to an Aussie who seems to do more than his share of whinging!
95
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 October 2011 - 16:23
Ah, DD, you are American. That explains it. We Americans are the only ones who seem to think our home country is much, much better than Dubai. Erm....No Dubai, in many respects, is cheaper than Australia but you would be hard pressed to find an Aussie who says that Dubai is 'better'. Maybe Aussies are able to adapt more easily ( and whinge less ;) ) Seconded
1579
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EW EXPERT
Latest post on 24 October 2011 - 16:22
Ah, DD, you are American. That explains it. We Americans are the only ones who seem to think our home country is much, much better than Dubai. Erm....No Dubai, in many respects, is cheaper than Australia but you would be hard pressed to find an Aussie who says that Dubai is 'better'. Maybe Aussies are able to adapt more easily ( and whinge less ;) )
270
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 October 2011 - 16:07
I feel you DD, I kinda feel the same. I have been here for 3 years now, and I am really home sick!!(from UK) I was there for a month in summer and loved it. Being with my family, wow. Here I have no family at all, I look at DS and DD growing up not knowing what it is like to have cousins around him. Being able to play in the garden. And yes the weather sucks, but hey it's not like he can go out to play in summer here either, so I think in a way it balances each other out. Because of his age, magic planet and fun city does not cut it for him any more, we go to other places too, but there is only so much you can do! I miss the green, I miss being on the roads and not having idiots around you. I miss going to the shop and not having rude people barge in front of you, or bash you with their trolley. Yes I know this can happen in the UK too, depending on where you are from. I do like driving my big 4X4 but these things are not what I measure my life by, I don't do mani's and pedi's often, so not missing much there. The things that gets me the most is not being around family esp for the kids! Our situation is a bit of a tricky one, DH hates his job, he comes home frustrated and will sometimes snap at us. Yes he is home by 6 daily, but even when he gets home, he is still working. He is looking for another job, but in this climate, I guess we should count ourselves lucky he has a job. And I know UK is not good at the moment, everyone is telling us we are lucky to be out. So we in the 'fed up of Dubai' mode but can't go home! Aaargh catch 22! Either way I guess your attitude is what determines how your time here will pan out. Now I'm just taking it as it comes. If you hate everything, believe me you will struggle, but at least look at what you can get out of this place, then everyday that goes by may not seem so bad! Good luck to everyone:)
13
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 October 2011 - 14:58
We're off home soon after 3 and a half years and two babies. There will be lots of things that I miss (affordable home help, predictable weather, great friends, gorgeous view from our villa) and lots that I won't (expensive schooling, speedbumps, roundabouts, humidity). As several other posters have commented, everywhere has its good and bad and it is easier to think that the grass is greener on the other side. I know financially, we will have it tougher at home but I think it will be a better environment to bring the children up in. And, as much as I have made some great friends here, it is hard not having friends around who have known you for a long time and understand you really well.
502
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EW GURU
Latest post on 24 October 2011 - 13:22
Ah, DD, you are American. That explains it. We Americans are the only ones who seem to think our home country is much, much better than Dubai. The Aussies think Dubai is cheap, and it is compared to Australia, the Brits think the weather is great, and it is not as rainy as in London. The South Africans think Dubai is so safe, and it is, compared to Johannesburg. But compared to New York, or anywhere in the states, Dubai is expensive, hot, and boring! From UK but from the time I have spent in various locations in the States I would have to agree! Would probably rather be there than back home to be honest! We are not in love with Dubai but it serves its purpose and we have learned to not get mad about frustrations etc. I find that if you always expect the worse then sometimes you're pleasantly surprised! <em>edited by Rebecca W on 24/10/2011</em>
1236
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 24 October 2011 - 12:37
Ah, DD, you are American. That explains it. We Americans are the only ones who seem to think our home country is much, much better than Dubai. The Aussies think Dubai is cheap, and it is compared to Australia, the Brits think the weather is great, and it is not as rainy as in London. The South Africans think Dubai is so safe, and it is, compared to Johannesburg. But compared to New York, or anywhere in the states, Dubai is expensive, hot, and boring! I hated the dusty heat of Doha and much prefer the way of life etc in my gorgeous part of Scotland. OK our UK weather isn't great but I never let weather get me down. There are far more important aspects to what makes life good. I spent a lot of time inside while I was in Doha as I hated the heat, even in the winter. Back home I can dress up and walk in the rain, or like today a crisp autumn morning. I have my family and close friends close by and have the choice of 3 cities within an hours drive if I want the "high life" (which I don't!) We have an abundance of good restuarants nearby, countless country parks, cinemas, etc. I did a lot of Doha bashing while I was there and after I left have to say but have mellowed now I'm home. I do have a few good memories of a small nucleus of good friends, the souq and our pretty little apartment which I shed tears over as I closed the door for the last time.
31
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 October 2011 - 10:18
I get exactly where you are DD. We made the choice around 6 months ago to return. We are expecting our 3rd baby in a couple of months and I was informed in July that my job would be made redundant, which I have just finished. So it seemed like a perfect time to make the move back home. We have loved our time in Dubai and there will be things that we will all miss but we miss more back home. I leave this weekend and OH, DD and DS will join me in December. We have achieved our financial goals, and a lot of our friends have gone too. Here's to new adventures xx
1617
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EW EXPERT
Latest post on 24 October 2011 - 10:00
I'm not sure whether this is particualrly productive as I say the same thing every time on these threads and so do most others! Been here nearly a year, and we love it. We lived in North London so I had an hour long commute to Canary Wharf on a good day. I never really had time for mani pedis but they were about 70 pounds (that's about 420 AED). My husband drove to work and spent over 100 pounds a week on petrol. Our quality of life has transformed beyond all recognition; part of that is DH working from home, so he does the school run and takes our DD on playdates, to Brownies, ductac classes. in London she was in afterschool club until 6 and didn't get home until 7. I was seldom home before 7,30 so didn't really see her all week. here, we all eat together and it's a proper meal (cooked by DH and not involving a microwave and plastic tray). The only thing I miss is my weekends in by the seaside in Kent where I had a house...but I still have that and thanks to being here and paying 50% tax (to myself!!) it will be paid for in December. I think you'd have to drag me screaming back to the UK at this point in time!
477
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 October 2011 - 09:56
in february it'll be 10 years since we moved to dubai, and we're still enjoying every minute. i cant remember the last time we were at brunch (2007?), we are very active and do sporty things after hours and over weekends. we live in affordable and decent accommodation, dewa is reasonable too. like another poster said, if we experience bad service we just dont go back. we are probably in the minority of people we cannot complain about du, rta, our bank (hs**). we've just never had any hassles with them. also never had phantom fines (touch wood). dubai is home to us. we go to our home country and enjoy the food, the people, the crisp blue sky but come 15 days (max), we're ready to 'come home'. good luck DDougherty, and enjoy your trip home!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 October 2011 - 09:50
Ah, DD, you are American. That explains it. We Americans are the only ones who seem to think our home country is much, much better than Dubai. The Aussies think Dubai is cheap, and it is compared to Australia, the Brits think the weather is great, and it is not as rainy as in London. The South Africans think Dubai is so safe, and it is, compared to Johannesburg. But compared to New York, or anywhere in the states, Dubai is expensive, hot, and boring! The one and only time that I will lump my Canadian a$$ with being compared to my Yankee friends to the south. Couldn't agree more :)
341
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 October 2011 - 09:48
Arh ! good luck DD with your move x I am going to vote the other way ... we have been here for a year nearly .. and we LOVE it We are British from the East End and Cheshire but lived in Kent for Many Many years .. I love My home here in Dubai Love the Heat(most of the Year)even stuck it out for Ramadan which quite possibly we wont do again next year ..Inshallah ..Love the vibe and the can do attitude .. we havent been back since we left but all of our friends say dont come back - Its a nightmare .. we both work in the city .. I can imagine now trudging through the tube on a Monday morning trying to get to the City Line and being redirected for two hours .. then finishing at 6 and not getting in until 8.30 in the evening .....NO THANK YOU ! But its not only that .. I think if you come from a warmer climate .. then you just dont get the UK mentality ... Its dark in the winter and there are NO blue skies ... its grey ......Gives me shudders thinking about getting wet feet ... here I dance in the rain*blushes* I love England in the summer and the spring and the Autumn - but literally - We were working to live .. spent the weekends on Burn out trying to recover and even working late evenings .. most evenings.. and at least one full day at the weekend .. the service is good - but like most places you can get some awful service _ then you complain - and never go back - our home is 10 times smaller than what we had in England .. literally .. but we like apartment living now ..our LL is a company - API Investments - and they are just Fabulous .. and the food ... its not M&S but its totally edible and causes us no grief ... The only thing is I miss my sisters x
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 October 2011 - 09:47
Having traveled around the world, and lived in many places, I have realized there is no perfect place. You take the good and the bad and you make the best of it. If home is an option that is great, but for many it isn't for many reasons. I know of many americans that had a terrible time when 9/11 happened and their companies wanted to move them back to the US, so I guess we each put things in a balance and decide what meets our family's needs! Good luck, and enjoy being back home!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 October 2011 - 09:06
I think you're right DD & Guinness. Being American also Dubai is definitely NOT home. I am into my 5th year here and counting down the time til I get to go home (though it's at least a year or two away). However many of my friends from other countries think that Dubai is fantastic.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 October 2011 - 08:32
Good luck DD. We are also planning on leaving. Dubai gave us great times and friends but it is time to move on. Dubai is suited to certain people and I have enjoyed it don't get me wrong but there's so many things that frustrate me over here like DD mentioned. I know that going back 'home' will be tough but it will be real. I'm so grateful I got the chance to experience Dubai though ;) oh well..
70
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 October 2011 - 08:12
Ah, DD, you are American. That explains it. We Americans are the only ones who seem to think our home country is much, much better than Dubai. The Aussies think Dubai is cheap, and it is compared to Australia, the Brits think the weather is great, and it is not as rainy as in London. The South Africans think Dubai is so safe, and it is, compared to Johannesburg. But compared to New York, or anywhere in the states, Dubai is expensive, hot, and boring! Guinness, I think you are spot on! That must be it! :) I even find myself craving just a good trip to Target!! <em>edited by DDougherty on 24/10/2011</em>
1238
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 24 October 2011 - 08:07
Ah, DD, you are American. That explains it. We Americans are the only ones who seem to think our home country is much, much better than Dubai. The Aussies think Dubai is cheap, and it is compared to Australia, the Brits think the weather is great, and it is not as rainy as in London. The South Africans think Dubai is so safe, and it is, compared to Johannesburg. But compared to New York, or anywhere in the states, Dubai is expensive, hot, and boring!
70
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 October 2011 - 07:55
Thanks for the replies everyone. Dubai was fun for us and it has given me some wonderful memories and experience. I have made some great friends here, but sadly most have left or are planning to leave soon. Perhaps its because we have all been here too long-its no longer new and exciting maybe? This March will be 6 years for us, and I miss home, not just the place, but what makes home, HOME. My parents, my oldest and dearest friends who are all having playdates and weekend bbqs, snow during christmas, fall colors, having a glass of wine at a cafe out on the street (not something that cost a fortune at a hotel) while people watching, being able to walk to most places, really great shopping at places like Trader Joe's, Marshalls, TJ Maxx. Also, everyone says Manis and Pedis are cheap here...I think its the same price. If you go a "reputable" place here its 55 for manicure? Back home during weekdays there are specials where you can get a mani and pedi for 20 usd at most. Dubai has given me some fab times, but now the high cost of living and being so far from our loved ones-espcially now that we have children, it just doesn't make sense being here anymore. I will miss the incredible shawermas, nice beaches, and of course the friends I have made here. But its time to move on when you start to second guess why you are here and what you get out of it.
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 23 October 2011 - 23:09
Yebbut, frankly, Sue62, you've got way too many posts to your name for someone who's only been here just over a year. Look at me ;) well, i actually joined here 19 months ago and yes i spend a lot of time online, always have - and why not ? OK, clearly my attempted joke failed. lol - sorry, i didn't get it...past my bedtime !!!
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 23 October 2011 - 23:05
Yebbut, frankly, Sue62, you've got way too many posts to your name for someone who's only been here just over a year. Look at me ;) well, i actually joined here 19 months ago and yes i spend a lot of time online, always have - and why not ? OK, clearly my attempted joke failed.
3901
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 23 October 2011 - 23:01
Yebbut, frankly, Sue62, you've got way too many posts to your name for someone who's only been here just over a year. Look at me ;) well, i actually joined here 19 months ago and yes i spend a lot of time online, always have - and why not ?
5400
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 23 October 2011 - 22:50
Yebbut, frankly, Sue62, you've got way too many posts to your name for someone who's only been here just over a year. Look at me ;)
3901
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 23 October 2011 - 22:41
Sorry you want to leave DD, hope you are happier once you get home.. We're just into our second year (3rd for husband) and so far still loving it here. We've been very lucky - fab landlord, one fine each so far lol and red tape hasn't been a problem. I love the choice of fresh produce, even if it doesn't always look "pristine", don't find the prices any higher than home and i love my car - way more fun to drive than my tiny thing at home - and a fraction of the cost to run too... both children love their schools, as do we, and all in all as a family we feel our quality of life is better here. I don't do the beauty treatments or malls and we brunch only every few weeks but we have some wonderful friends and a great social life... how long we'll feel like this who knows ? I can see why Dubai isn't for everyone but i totally get why others just love it :)
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EW EXPERT
Latest post on 23 October 2011 - 22:23
I hear yer... 3-and-a bit years here and it's still... "ok". The wonderful brunches/meals out and cheap mani-pedis (aside from the lovely people I've met here, there really does seem to be only those two things that set this place apart from the rest, which is a real shame) only just outweigh the expense, lack of customer service, poor quality of food, daily frustration and general instability of life here. Meh. Tick tock tick tock... ;)
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EW EXPERT
Latest post on 23 October 2011 - 21:45
DD, enjoy planning your return. Unfortunate that you have had such a bad time. We are opposite fortunately, been here for nearly 9 years and seem to get more attached every year..although we are now on the downward slide to retiring :)....I certainly understand where you are coming from....hopefully home will be all you remember :)
1996
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 23 October 2011 - 21:28
Good luck with the move though much as I love my home country I can't say I feel the same. Our landlord is wonderful-be it for a broken light bulb or something major-no car so no fines!- but love the metro and buses to get us everywhere. Wish the exchange rate for home was better but otherwise quite content
205
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 October 2011 - 21:24
I'm Canadian and although I don't look forward to going back to the rainy winters in Vancouver I also won't miss the extremely hot summer months in Dubai.
 
 

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