CABear | ExpatWoman.com
 

CABear

CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 26 October 2015 - 09:13
We are considering adopting a puppy and am hoping someone can help me to understand the approximate cost involved in owning a pet. We may move back to Canada in the next 1-2 years and have heard the cost of relocating a pet are very high. I have looked around on the internet but can't seem to see any specifics - can someone help with ball park figures?
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 July 2014 - 10:43
Yes, we went there last year for our anniversary! Anywhere else? We'd like to try somewhere new...
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 June 2014 - 11:37
Thank you 2ndBaby. That helps!
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 June 2014 - 09:11
We have just found out that the apartment we live in has been sold to a new owner. The management company has told us to contact this person as our contract ends September 1st. I just want to make sure I am aware of our rights before we speak to him. Can he increase our rent? Does he have to honor the current contract? Please, any advice would be aprreciated. TIA
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 August 2013 - 07:30
Thank you SunDevil! I will look it up.
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 August 2013 - 20:13
What age do they start playing T-ball? Where are the games and practices? Does anyone have contact information or a website? I am interested for my son...
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 August 2013 - 20:13
What age do they start playing T-ball? Where are the games and practices? Does anyone have contact information or a website? I am interested for my son...
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 August 2013 - 20:08
Whistle and Flute in Satwa
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 July 2013 - 07:29
Urban Bistro in Media City will be open.
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 April 2013 - 20:58
I need to renew two of my children's Canadian passports and hope someone can advise what I need, where I need to go, etc. I know there a limited hours that the passport office is open but I cannot remember what they are. I have done a quick internet search but I am not coming up with much detailed information. I would really like to limit the number of times I have to go to the consulate. When I had my newborn's passport and citizenship done I had to go to the office 6 times, deal with parking, etc which is very inconvenient especially with 3 young children in tow. Any information would be appreciated! TIA
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 April 2013 - 21:09
My son is at Nibras this year in KG2. I don't think the school is terrible, his teacher is also Irish (perhaps the same class kenya2312?) and she has been great. My son is also native english speaker and is doing really well. Perhaps he is advanced because of this but I do feel he has learned a lot this year. His reading and writing are progressing quite quickly, he blasts through his weekly homework in about 20 minutes but I don't mind as he is so young and I don't think he needs to spend too much time on homework at this age. That being said, we are looking to change schools for September as I haven't heard good things about the primary program there. His class is full of different nationalities which I think has been beneficial to him. He has gained confidence as he is quite bright and hopefully won't have a problem adjusting to a new school next year. I certainly wouldn't say Nibras would be my first choice, but we didn't really have many choices for time and financial reasons. Does anyone have school suggestions that are not too expensive? Would be interested in feedback on this subject.
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 March 2013 - 20:26
Coventry Tailor in Satwa is good and not too expensive.
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 March 2013 - 21:52
My DS went through the same thing at the same age. It was really bad, to the point sometimes other kids would make fun of him. I was so worried that he wouldn't grow out of it! It lasted about 6 months and then suddenly vanished. It is apparently very normal so try not to worry.
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 February 2013 - 22:18
Lemon Pancake, I know how stressful this situation is! I was in the exact same position last year (gave birth in April 2012). We ended up leaving our other 2 children with my husband's co-worker and family at the last minute. It was not ideal but it was only for one night. The fairy godmother group is a good place to look. I found someone there that was willing to help me out but at the last minute she had to fly back to the UK for a family emergency and the arrangement fell through. What area do you live in? I would also suggest posting on the main forum. There are many generous women here who might be willing to help out (you could meet a couple of times in advance to make sure you would be comfortable with them watching your toddler). I would offer my services but with 3 little ones and working full-time, I am not really your best option! Try not to worry, something will work out!
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 January 2013 - 07:45
Baby Shop carries Medela breast pumps and they have a sale on right now. I wouldn't bring electrical items from N. America. I fried a few items when we came from Canada. It also can be a hassle having to plug in to converters in different rooms when you have a newborn to care for.
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 20:24
I have 3 kids: 2 boys and a girl. The oldest (a boy) likes to sleep in, but the other two (2 years old and 9 months) are early risers. I NEVER sleep past 6:30am and that's on a good day!! If you find a solution please let me know!! I don't think I've had a good night's sleep in 2 years as they both are only happy with Mommy in the morning. The only saving grace is that they are both happy in the morning so we have nice snuggles and play time.
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 25 September 2012 - 08:37
I know this is a long shot but I am looking for anyone living in Jumeirah Village Circle with kids in KG at Nibras school willing to car pool. Or if anyone has any suggestions for school pickups 2-3 days a week. I don't want to pay the crazy fees for school bus as I only need the service part time. TIA!
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 September 2012 - 17:48
Thanks for your replies! Do you know if my husband needs to be there (the contract is in his name) or can I go with all the paperwork?
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 September 2012 - 12:05
I agree that you will have to wait until your husband gets his visa as you need to be a resident to sponsor someone. Sorry to hijack but... I want to get our tenancy contract attested tomorrow and I just got off the phone with the land department and he did not mention anything about the floor plan or location map. Do I need these? He told me about the dewa bill, passport and visa copies and title deed. Also, where do I go? It seemed I had a really bad connection and couldn't really understand but he said there was a location I could go to near Burj Khalifa? We are in Jumeirah Village Circle - anyone know the nearest location?
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 September 2012 - 20:57
The man told me it was 2500 for 8 hours per day live out (5 days per week) or I could pay 2800 for 10 hours per day. I think you have to pay 1000 to the company initially. I'm not really sure of the details as the man's english wasn't great. I think his number was 0557445594. I have found someone to hire privately (fingers crossed her references are all good) as 8 hours a day is not quite enough for me. I am so nervous to hire someone as I have read so many horror stories but I really liked her when I met her today and hope that my gut instinct won't steer me wrong. This whole process has been so nerve wracking and frustrating I hope it all works out!! I would love any tips on making sure that I hire the right person! I have spoken to quite a few women and haven't had a good feeling about them until this person today.
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 September 2012 - 20:33
Thanks Histroy, I'll check it out!
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 September 2012 - 14:35
Thanks, I'll try the ice. The slacks are light coloured and the wax looks quite dark so I'm worried about it staining.
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 September 2012 - 11:56
I didn't expect her to clean my whole place, just a little tidying up after the kids were asleep. They always have in the past and I always tip generously but I hear what you are saying. It was the babysitter that put the towels over the sides of the cradle, I am assuming as a bumper? I guess I was just angry that I missed the wedding and then received no apology.
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 September 2012 - 09:43
I am also wondering about this. I will be hiring a maid for the first time, she is already here in Dubai. What is a pink slip and how do I get it? TIA and sorry for my ignorance!
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 August 2012 - 12:25
Thanks emmsie. I think you are right. I just phoned the school to see what payment options I might have and I can pay for just one way on the bus at 60% which is still over 5000aed but more manageable. I am asking to see if we can pay it by term and am waiting for the accounts manager to get back to me - fingers crossed!
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 August 2012 - 11:49
I recently started looking for work and was fortunate enough to get an interview yesterday for a promising job and go for a second interview today (YAY!). Now, after doing some number crunching last night I am freaking out a bit. I have 3 children, one is starting KG2 this September and the other two are under 2 years old. My plan is to hire a maid/nanny either live in or out. I am realizing how difficult it will be to arrange school runs and to hire a maid. We are on a limited budget (hence the need for me to go back to work) and the cost of hiring a maid is daunting but somewhat manageable. School bus transportation is 8800aed payable up front and there is just no way we can afford this. Dropping off at school in the morning shouldn't be a problem but picking up at 1:15 would have to be done by myself. Do you think it's reasonable to ask my prospective employer for a longer lunch break and stay longer at the end of the day? I don't want to lower my chances of getting the job but this is a reality that I have to deal with. My son will be attending Nibras school and I don't know anyone else with kids going to this school otherwise we could perhaps work out carpooling of sorts. We really could use the money that this job would provide but the upfront costs just seem unmanageable. My husband and I both work in food and beverage and although we can make better money here than at home it still is difficult for us to live here on our relatively low incomes. What to do? EW has always been so helpful in the past, I would love some advice/ideas on what I can do.
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 August 2012 - 11:58
I had mine done at the Kodak store near Geant in Ibn Battuta Mall. I also had some done at a photo studio in Dubai Mall which were a bit more expensive but did a great job. I believe any of the photo shops will do them.
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 August 2012 - 12:46
We are also moving to JVC and like Emirates Garden 2 and the Manhattan. (Looks like we'll probably be moving to the Manhattan). Great size flats in both. I also have a 4 year old and an almost 2 year old (both boys) looking for playdates, let me know if you are interested!
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 August 2012 - 14:10
I wouldn't recommend using the escalator with a stroller. I have almost had an accident when the brake line broke and got stuck in the escalator. I was stuck at the top and people were jamming up behind me. Luckily I pushed really hard and it came free but scared me to death!
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 August 2012 - 14:07
I have a Mamas & Papas Aria Twin 60/40 (same as the Peg Perego) and love it! It can carry a carseat which is rare for a side by side double stroller. They don't actually sell them here but I found mine on Dubizzle for 750 aed, I think you can also have them shipped here. It is lightweight but both seats recline separately, it has a storage basket underneath and it folds up relatively compactly.
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 August 2012 - 14:03
We recently named our daughter Alia. We are Canadian and wanted a name that won't be hard to pronounce should we move back to Canada but we also wanted an Arabic name as she was born here. We originally spelled it Aliya but changed it to a simpler spelling. Good luck! Our first born had no name for 5 weeks!
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 02 August 2012 - 15:34
There's one in the Dubai Garden Centre on Sheikh Zayed Rd.
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 July 2012 - 12:28
I called DNRD and yes DH needs to be there. He also needs his original passport but his company holds his passport and it will take a few days for them to release it. It drives me crazy that they can do this! Tomorrow is his only day off and he probably won't be able to get his passport by then. He's going to plead his case today so we'll see... I am upset with myself that we left this to the last minute but it wouldn't be an issue if DH had his passport!
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 July 2012 - 09:19
Really? I guess I'll find out today. Luckily it is DH's day off tomorrow so if necessary we can all go then.
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 July 2012 - 21:53
Thanks starsouthern, great news! Only one stop to load everyone in and out of the car! Perfect.
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 July 2012 - 20:17
I need to go tomorrow to apply for my newborn's residency visa and I am not sure where to go exactly. I know I need to go to a typing centre first and then to DNRD? I don't even know which typing centre to go to. I live in Discovery Gardens and will be carting 3 little ones with me so ideally I don't want to wander all over Dubai. I also don't know if there are special hours for Ramadan. I can't seem to find the info on here or on the web. I've been putting this off after the fiasco I had just getting the birth certificate and passport sorted so the deadline is drawing near before I start incurring fines. I would love to get this sorted out tomorrow if possible. Thanks in advance!
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 July 2012 - 17:27
Home Centre sells them, but not sure about the size.
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 July 2012 - 17:23
I believe you can hire pumps but I'm not sure where. I have a double Medela electric pump to sell for cheap if you are interested. I only used it for about 6 weeks. Email if you like [email protected]
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 July 2012 - 06:30
I paid for the antenatal care at Latifa. Yes, you should be able to get all tests done right away. I never saw any outside care, the antenatal care through Latifa/clinic covers everything. Good luck! It can be a little difficult in the beginning trying to have everything explained but be persistent and someone will guide you!
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 July 2012 - 22:44
Baby Shop sells them although I haven't heard great reviews of these ones. I saw an earlier thread about this and someone recommened Life Pharmacy, not sure where this is but they are supposed to be good ones.
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 July 2012 - 22:40
This does seem strange. I registered and delivered with Latifa and had my earlier appointments at Umm Suqeim clinic. I registered at 15 weeks and had my first appointment right away. I didn't have any appointments at Latifa until I was about 36 weeks. Perhaps check with your local clinic and try to make an appointment with them. I recommend going to your local clinic in person and bring the receipt for the 5000 aed antenatal care, they should give you an appointment right away.
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 July 2012 - 22:36
I ordered one yesterday from babysouk.com for 425 aed with next day delivery. I didn't get a 20% discount so not sure about that but the price seemed reasonable and I like the fact that it is delivered to my door.
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 July 2012 - 17:17
My son was at Rising Stars this past year and loved it. The staff is friendly and experienced and I never had any problems. He is 4 so was with the oldest kids. He made a couple of great friends and loved going to "school". My only concern was that he had 3 different teachers in one year. The first went on maternity leave, the second was the nursery's head teacher who only covered until they found a good replacement so she still works at the school, and then the third I understand will not be returning next year. I don't believe this high turnover to be the nursery's fault and it didn't bother my son as he was older but could be a concern for younger child. HTH
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 July 2012 - 17:11
Hi Lamia, I too am looking for karate for my 4 1/2 yr old DS. If you like, we could meet in advance for a playdate and then send them to the same class. My son is also a little shy and it might be easier for them if they had a friend to go with. Let me know if you are interested! [email protected]
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 July 2012 - 20:27
I delivered at Latifa Hospital and the total cost was just under 9000 aed. NVD was 7000 plus 1800 for epidural. They charged for some medication as well but it was very inexpensive. The antenatal care was 5000 plus I think 75 for an additional test I had done. HTH.
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 June 2012 - 08:47
Hi Lamia, I have enrolled my 4 year old at Nibras for KG 2 in September. I have heard mixed reviews but think the primary grades are good and we will probably transfer schools around grade 2 or 3 if we are still living in Dubai. I did visit the school and got a very good feel for it. Everyone was very friendly and welcoming, patient with my son as he can be painfully shy. We had a tour and all the children looked happy, etc in the KG area. Also, I spoke to the director at my son's nursery about school options as she has a strong background in education and has raised 4 children here in Dubai. She thought Nibras to be a good school with a strong Arabic program and overall she recommended it. HTH!
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 June 2012 - 08:29
I had my third baby at Latifa about 2 1/2 months ago. My experience overall was good. It is a no frills sort of experience but I did feel that I was in good hands, that the doctors were competent and the midwife that was with me through the whole labour and delivery was excellent. Your husband will not be allowed in the labouring room with you but can be in the delivery room (I was only in the labour room for about an hour or two). I had an epidural and the cost was 1800 AED in addition to the normal delivery charge of 7000 AED. I did not have a private room but was lucky that my room was basically empty until the day I was discharged. The antenatal care was ok. You need to ask lots of questions otherwise I often felt a little rushed with not much doctor feedback. I did my antenatal care at Umm Suqeim clinic and was then transferred to Latifa at about 36 weeks. In total I saw 5 different doctors during antenatal care so it's difficult to form any sort of relationship with your doctor but this didn't really bother me as it was my third baby and had no complications during my pregnancy. You can get a health card for your baby (110 AED I think) and then get free vaccinations. However, anyone can do this, you don't need to deliver at a gov't hospital. HTH and good luck. BTW I had no medical insurance and was very stressed about complications, etc and what the cost might be, but it all worked out fine. Less than 15000AED all said and done.
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 June 2012 - 08:58
Yes please!! You can email me at [email protected] and I will pick them up. Thank you!
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 June 2012 - 11:17
Poor you! I have had this with all 3 of my children and it's terrible. I would try going to a pharmacy and asking. I know for baby they sell Daktarin oral gel which worked really well for my DD. I'm not sure about for you but the pharmacist could probably help until you can see your doctor. Good luck!
CABear
138
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 June 2012 - 06:24
I had a baby here 2 months ago and when picking up the birth certificate they do ask for an attested copy of the marriage certificate. However, mine is not certified and they never said anything. I think it depends on who you talk to unfortunately.
 
 
How expats in Germany can get German pension refund

Bye Bye Germany - Hello German Pension Refund?

UAE Emirati Lawyer Awatif Khouri in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Meet the Emirati Woman Breaking Grounds in UAE Law: Awatif Khouri

Mashreq NEO NXT Account | Why Kids and Teens Need Financial Education

Why Teens Need Real-World Financial Education?

International university transition tips

How to Make the Transition to University Life Easier

How to apply for Germany VBL Pension Refund as an expatriate | Germany Pension Refund

Bye Bye German Public Service Job - Hello VBL Pension Refund

Tourist SIM cards in Dubai guide

Tourist SIM Cards in Dubai: Where to Get One and Package Prices

World's most expensive cities to live in 2024

These Are the World's Most Expensive Cities To Live in 2024

Dubai ranked as one of the best cities to work in 2024

Dubai Ranked Among Top 5 Cities in the World to Work In

What are the signs that your online date is a fraud

8 Warning Signs Your Online Date is a Scammer

10 Expat Experiences You Should Check Off Before Repatriation

10 Expat Experiences You Should Check Off Before Leaving For Good

Best and Worst Countries to Get Started Abroad for New Expats

Best and Worst Countries for New Expats to Get Started Abroad

Under the Mango Tree by Robyn Fok | Expat Books

Expat Author Robyn Fok's 'Under the Mango Tree' Deals With Pet Grief & Loss

Expat Wife, Happy Life: Interview With Expat Author Florence Reisch

(Images: Supplied)

Expat Interview: Meet Florence Reisch, Author of 'Expat Wife, Happy Life!'

Remembering Queen Elizabeth II: A Tribute by UAE Expats

Remembering an Extraordinary Woman: A Tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

10 reasons why expat women love the UAE

10 Reasons Why the UAE is a Popular Choice for Expat Women

6 Common Fears of Moving Abroad By Yourself and How to Overcome Them

Moving to the UAE Alone: 6 Common Fears and How to Overcome Them

Ultimate Babyshop Baby and Toddler Travel Packing List

These Baby Travel Essentials Are Must-Haves For Your Next Family Getaway

Requirements to apply for a UAE Golden Visa

How Do I Obtain a UAE Golden Visa? Requirements, Eligibility, and Process Explained

5 Tip for Expats to Survive Long-Distance Relationships

5 Tip for Expats to Survive Long-Distance Relationships

Opening a bank account in the UAE

A Newcomer to the UAE? What to Consider When Choosing a Bank for Opening an Account

Culture shock in the United Arab Emirates for expats

14 Ways You Will Experience Culture Shock in the UAE

Why you shouldn't upload your resume on your LinkedIn profile

5 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Upload a Resume to Your LinkedIn Profile

10 Secrets to Happiness as an Expat

10 Secrets to Finding Happiness as an Expat

4 Ways to Network as an Expat

4 Ways to Network as an Expat

8 Expat Problems That Are Just Too Real

8 Expat Problems That Are Just Too Real

How to Make New Friends in a Foreign Country

How to Make New Friends in a Foreign Country

Top 10 Countries with the Best Quality of Life

Top 10 Countries with the Best Quality of Life

The best European cities for new expats

Pictured: Prague

The Best Cities in Europe for Expat Arrivals

House in Husavik

10 Amazing Things To Do In Iceland

How to Make Your Own Life as an Expat and Why It’s Important

How to Make Your Own Life as an Expat and Why It’s Important

The Labriz eforea spa location

Why Seychelles is One of the Best Holiday Destinations

The Real Expat: Chasing Your Dreams to Find Your True Purpose

The Real Expat: Chasing Your Dreams to Find Your True Purpose

6 Annoying Things Expats Hate Hearing

6 Annoying Things Expats Hate Hearing