Alison_T | ExpatWoman.com
 

Alison_T

Alison_T
199
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 September 2016 - 15:19
As expected... Private sector holiday dates for Eid Al Adha in the UAE have been announced. The Ministry of Human Resource said in a statement: “Eid Al Adha holidays for the private sector will be for three days, starting on Sunday, September 11 to Tuesday, September 13.”
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 September 2016 - 13:51
Unless your vehicle is a rental car then I do not think you can drive it without a UAE license, which you can only get with a residence visa. You can drive a rental car with an International Driving Permit. As a visitor, it used to be possible to get a temporary driving licence, which is valid for 6 months, but I'm not sure how easy it is to get or even if they are still available. You cannot legally drink alcohol without an alcohol licence, which you can only get with a residence visa.
Alison_T
199
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 August 2016 - 11:06
There are lots of shops in Dragonmart that sell them. Also, Danube sell them (http://www.aldanube.com/).
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 August 2016 - 09:53
Thanks. Quite happy to miss that!
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 August 2016 - 09:45
What's the KK event?
Alison_T
199
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 August 2016 - 11:49
I have had plantar faciitis for the past year and have been seeing Dr Khutaiba Salman at Dubai London Clinic & Speciality hospital. He has been excellent. It is a very difficult condition to resolve. Cortisone injections into the foot can help, but are very painful unless done under twilight anaesthesia. I have had 4 so far. Dr. Khutaiba is advising me against surgery as it is not 100% certain of a cure and is prone to infection. I have seen 2 other doctors, as Dr Khutaiba suggested I get a second opinion, but hey only wanted to try experimental treatments (botox injection into the calf muscle and shock therapy) but these are not covered by my insurance and very expensive. I have tried insoles but they made it more painful for me. Physiotherapy, including massage and ultrasound didn't help much. As plum2 mentioned, shoes can make a big difference. I wear Fit Flops and have Crocs for the office, but the best advice I received from Dr Khutaiba was to lose weight!.
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 August 2016 - 18:25
For the past 4 years I have been using Tool Time, They are very responsive and always do a good job. I have no complaints. I have a 5-bedroom villa and they charge me 5,000 AED per year. That includes 3 maintenance visits per year when they go through everything, right down to checking every light bulb. It also includes unlimited call outs plus water tank cleaning once a year. All labour is covered. I just have to pay for any parts that may be required. 800 TT is their phone number or www.tooltime.ae No, I do not work for them, nor do I have any connection apart from being a customer!
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 July 2016 - 18:04
After 5 years I guess she found it....or gave up looking :biggrin:
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 July 2016 - 10:23
I thought it was illegal for an employer to hold an employee's passport. Perhaps this does not apply to domestic staff.
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 July 2016 - 11:18
My friend's wife unfortunately died a few years ago. At the time they were sponsoring a maid live-in helper. he was allowed to retain the sponsorship whilst the children were dependent and still at school. Once they finished school and actually left the UAE he could no longer sponsor her.
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 July 2016 - 09:17
You could try Noor Takaful. They are advertising basic medical insurance at around 500 AED I believe. This is aimed at low income, wives on husband's visas etc. It may or may not be suitable for your needs. I don't think residence visas will be issued now without proof of medical insurance.
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 July 2016 - 13:25
You can't believe everything you read in the newspapers but the company I work for has already acted on the announcement and declared the office closed for Wednesday and Thursday!
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 July 2016 - 12:39
Also check your insurance policy. The last 2 policies I have had offer a car registration service free of charge as one of the benefits.
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 July 2016 - 12:25
Gulf News confirmed last week that it will be Wednesday and Thursday: [i'>[b'>Private sector holidays for Eid Al Fitr have been confirmed by the UAE government and will be from Wednesday, July 6 to Saturday, July 9 with work resuming on Sunday, July 10 (4 days). [/b'>[/i'> http://gulfnews.com/guides/life/ramadan/features/eid-al-fitr-2016-all-you-need-to-know-1.1548801#
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 June 2016 - 16:08
A friend of mine held her little one's first birthday party in a private room at Hard Rock Cafe. Not sure what it cost though, sorry.
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 June 2016 - 16:05
I've used Belhasa and they were very good. I think it was 400 AED per month for 2 visits a week. However, it really isn't difficult to do the maintenance yourself if you have the pool vacuum etc. You can buy everything you need in Ace Hardware. Makpools off Umm Suqeim Road also sell everything, and I am sure there are other places. HTH
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 June 2016 - 15:59
Maybe she has a daughter back in her home country who she misses and is trying to spend time with your daughter as a substitute.
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 June 2016 - 09:55
I saw this on Dubizzle today if you are still looking. http://tnydu.biz/DXBADZK
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 June 2016 - 10:36
Dragonmart
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 June 2016 - 13:03
I recently placed a cooker for sale on Dubizzle and it is still free. However, you have to pay to have it "featured". If you ignore that part the ad gets posted anyway.
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 April 2016 - 12:07
If it is the same black beetles that were eating my plants then they seem to breed in the soil at the base of the plant. Fortunately mine were in pots but I had to throw the whole thing away! :angry:
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 April 2016 - 08:53
I doubt you will find anything like that for free but Groupon has an offer for Burj Khalifa with 60% discount. 130 AED instead of 326 AED. https://www.groupon.ae/deals/at-the-top-burj-khalifa-5
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 February 2016 - 09:21
The list of fines and black points is [url=https://www.dubaipolice.gov.ae/dp/jsps/content/flat_content.do?contentCode=91725'>here[/url'> The speed limit on Al Khail Road is 100kph so if you were going at 160kph the fine should have been 900 AED plus 6 black points. If that is the reason they told you then you should definitely contest it. You can request details [url=https://www.dubaipolice.gov.ae/dp/jsps/content/flat_content.do?contentCode=91892'>here[/url'> and request they change it [url=https://www.dubaipolice.gov.ae/dp/jsps/content/flat_content.do?contentCode=92175'>here[/url'> Good luck!
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 February 2016 - 14:34
Shang Thai restaurant on Sheik Zayed Road does one although I don't know what it's like. If you have the Gulf News Good Living card you can also get a 20% discount.
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 January 2016 - 13:27
Does anyone know if Bonjela (or similar) mouth ulcer gel is available in Dubai? If so, where can I buy it?
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 January 2016 - 13:26
I got an email from them this morning and have signed up for the free month to try it.
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 January 2016 - 10:18
This sounds great! What times is it open and what is the best time to go there?
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 December 2015 - 10:55
Are you sure they said free zone and not freehold? I work in Business Bay in Vision Tower, which is next to Aspect Tower where they are located and it certainly isn't a free zone. The Business Bay web site ( [url=Link'>http://www.businessbay-offices.com/about-business-bay.html[/url'> ) describes it as a "freehold city" . To lodge a complaint in a free zone you usually have to go to the managing authority. For example, in JLT it would be DMCC. Aspect Tower is managed by Dubai Properties.
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 December 2015 - 12:36
I always enjoy watching Oliver! at Christmas. And Deck the Halls
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 December 2015 - 17:22
If you walk around the shopping areas behind Karama Centre it won't be long before someone asks you if you want "copy watches, copy bags"
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 December 2015 - 17:17
If you stay on Al Khail Road (E44) until you get past Business Bay you will see that it turns into Al Khail St according to the signs in the middle of the road. I think it is similar to Jebal Ali vs Jabal Ali and Umm Suqeim Road which turns into Umm Suqeim St and then back into Umm Suqeim Road! :thinking:
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 December 2015 - 12:02
I have just received an email from Careem saying that if you order (Via their app) they will deliver a 1.5m Christmas tree on 5th December for 350 AED. You have to order before midnight on 4th. [url=https://www.careem.com/dubai/holidays-delivered-careem?utm_source=Master+List+UAE&utm_campaign=e196bd7461-Amazing_weather_promo11_3_2015&utm_medium=email&utm_term=0_2fcd1cf94a-e196bd7461-234552593'>link[/url'>
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 November 2015 - 08:50
Carrefour in MOE had some on Saturday but seemed expensive. Over 800 AED.
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 October 2015 - 09:08
I always use a pressure washer to clean the grills on my BBQ. Cleans them in minutes. However, it does tend to spray black stuff around so do it in an open area.
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 September 2015 - 11:26
Everything now seems to be back to normal - at least on Dubai92 and Radio 2. haven't checked any others.
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 September 2015 - 13:01
In my opinion you cannot beat a houseboat cruise around the backwaters of Kerala. The scenery is stunning and gives an insight into how people live by the water. The boats are very luxurious with AC available at night, proper beds etc. Each boat has a crew who will do all the cooking etc,
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 August 2015 - 08:09
I have used Tool Time for the maintenance of my villas for the past 3 years and am very pleased with them. www.tooltime.ae. Telephone 800 TT
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 August 2015 - 15:01
[url=http://www.emirates247.com/news/emirates/uae-announces-cheaper-petrol-diesel-prices-for-september-2015-08-27-1.601528'>link[/url'>
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 August 2015 - 12:50
I recently moved to a new villa and used Maids.ae to do a deep clean prior to moving in. They did an excellent job. The place was spotless.
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 26 August 2015 - 09:31
Another reason not to use Facebook! :biggrin:
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 26 August 2015 - 09:30
You can try Ashok from Timco. I have used him a couple of times for curtains, vertical blinds (cheaper than curtains) and dining table chair re-upholstery. His work is good and reasonably priced. His number is 050 7310531
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 August 2015 - 06:49
I have a Hitachi fridge/freezer which I bought 7 years ago which has not had a single problem and is still functioning perfectly despite going through 5 house moves! I also have a Nikai fridge which I bought secondhand also 7 years ago which also still works fine apart from the icebox icing up occasionally.
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 August 2015 - 09:05
I lived in Al Quoz 1 about 3 years ago and have recently moved to Al Quoz 2. As Cowboy says, it is very local. Al Quoz 2 is a little further out, across the Al Khail Road, behind Al Quoz Pond Park. It is very quiet and the villas are mostly large with quite large gardens. I have moved to a 5-bedroom independent villa for only slightly more than what I was paying for a 3-bedroom townhouse in Al Furjan. For me the location is great. I work in Business Bay and can be at my office in 10 minutes. It is the same going home. The cons I can think of are: 1. The majority of Al Quoz 2 at the moment does not have any addresses. There are no street names/numbers or villa numbers. This can be a challenge when trying to organise deliveries or call a taxi. However, the villas do have Makani numbers allocated and, of course, there is GPS. Careem have never had a problem finding me when I book online or through the app. I keep meaning to try the Smart Taxi app but haven't got around to it yet. 2. Dusty! Some streets are not yet tarmacked, 3. You definitely need a car. 4. If the garden is not already landscaped, the size of them can make landscaping expensive if you don't want a desert as a garden. Compared to Al Quoz 2, I found Al Quoz 1 residential quite crowded. There are many older properties in that area and quite a few residents kept noisy roosters! Again, very good location, close to Oasis Centre. HTH
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 July 2015 - 11:30
I've recently done this as I moved from one villa to another. It is very easy to do online and you can specify a date. However, you will get a confirmation that the disconnection will be done within 48 hours of the requested date. Mine was actually disconnected 2 days after the date I requested but the villa was empty so it didn't matter. They will send you the final bill by email and will deduct your deposit. Any balance can then be paid online in the same way as monthly bills. Very easy indeed. I did the connection request for the new villa online also, including paying the deposit. I did not have to visit a DEWA office once for either transaction.
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 May 2015 - 21:43
My sponsor changed recently also. I had E-Gate on my Emirates Skywards card and it stopped working. I went to Dnata and they updated it in their system based on the new residence visa and now it is working again. The expiry date is the same as before my sponsor changed. No new card required. If they can do it for the Skywards card I don't see why they can't do it for an E-Gate card.
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 February 2015 - 08:16
I had one of mine changed a couple of months ago following a leak. I have a maintenance contract with ToolTime so the labour was covered. The actual tank (100 litre) cost 600 AED and took less than 2 hours to fit. 600 AED per hour for labour sounds expensive.
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 January 2015 - 14:17
It must depend on the building. Every place I have lived in there has been no problem. I do hear that in some construction they put wire mesh over the pipes but so far I have been lucky.
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 January 2015 - 11:51
You might also want to try the Feliway plugns. They are expensive but work wonders. I travel frequently and my 2 Mau's (brothers) started to fight really badly. Fur and blood! One time they even messed in the lounge during/after a huge fight, which they have never ever done before. Someone came to feed them once a day but I don't think this was enough human contact. On advice from a vet I bought 2 Feliway plugins and they are like 2 different cats, so relaxed and calm. They still have their personalities but hardly ever annoy each other now! I also bought a Feliway spray for their bed.
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 January 2015 - 08:44
A convection microwave is the same as a combination but without the grill.
Alison_T
199
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 02 January 2015 - 12:14
No need whatsoever to always say this when someone believes they are being correct by using an alternative term... So you don't think it's important to educate people so they don't infantilise the conversation? They should at least understand the parameters of the country where they're living, and one of those is that there is no problem at all with using words like "wine", "beer" etc. Drinking wine or beer in public, yes, that's a problem. But talking about them? Not at all. So I wonder why all the newspapers, magazines and radio advertisements refer to "hops" or grape" or bubbly" or "house beverages" instead of "beer", "wine", "champagne" or "alcoholic drinks"?
 
 
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