apr04 | ExpatWoman.com
 

apr04

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Latest post on 05 May 2014 - 12:41
We had gone to the agency yesterday and spoke to a few kenyan maids on the telephone and decided on oneand was today going to start her visa procedure. However yesterday late night i got an whats app msg from the maid stating that she was the one i spoke to and that am i the one (pic in the profile) to whom she would come to work for I was kind off uncomfortable with this msg (may be because for me whats app is used for a very close knit group only. Is this ok and am i over reacting or should i think once more before i start the procedure. Also ladies whats your opinion on kenyan maids, as i always had indonesian and this is my first time with kenyan. Advice wanted Never had experience with Kenyan maid, nor hiring someone over the phone but perhaps give her another phone call and speak to her again? Ask some more questions? and ask why she messaged you over whatsaap?
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Latest post on 05 May 2014 - 12:37
That's really horrible! and indeed, unprofessional. I feel sorry for your daughter, she is only ten and probably really upset. Maybe some ladies will recommend some good hair stylist who can fix it. I have never been to The salon but many times it was mentioned here as being one of the best in Dubai. apparently Not, anymore! Hope your Daughter will cheer up :) x
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Latest post on 02 May 2014 - 07:40
I have just downloaded Happy Valley, will watch during the week.
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Latest post on 02 May 2014 - 07:37
Hello all - this my first post and not what I wanted to say but I have to. We moved to JVC about a month ago, there is a guy, claiming to be a local (full dishdash etfc) that is going around the houses here and scoping them out. He is not an Emirati (although claims to be). Its a long story but in the end i called security. Purpose of this post is to warn you, this is a new development, no gates, free access and potential for anyone to break in etc. Please take care and be vigilant. Hi, I do not really understand expression of 'scoping out', as in checking out, looking around? Why would anyone let a stranger inside their home anyway? What was the reason that you have let him in? Did he pretend to be police or CID or something? Was he looking around the house to see your valuables for possible burglary? I just do not understand why would someone let the stranger into their house?!
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Latest post on 30 April 2014 - 20:05
Thanks everyone for your advice. I am a bit confued. If I do a breakdown , i get - 1) 1 bed room in Dubai - `5500 AED per month (70000 AED) 2) Utitlities - 800 AED 3) Phone & internet - 300 AED 4) Schooling ( UK/Engtlish standard) 2500 AED 5) Food - 2000 AED This brings the total to 11000 AED I still have 3000 AED for other expenses. Will that not be enough ? Am I missing anything You can rent one bedroom apartament in Sports City, Dubai Silicon Oasis from 50.000 to 60.000 dhs per year. Have a look on dubizzle. I agree, with others that on salary your husband has been offered it would be little struggle but is all doable. If your husband could negotiate at least schooling for your child or / and flights home that would help a lot. Good luck x
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Latest post on 24 April 2014 - 07:44
I'm one of those people who holds strong opinions and am prepared to give them about dogs. If you died at home and your dog was there what do you think would happen? To quote Stuart Lee, educated British stand up comedian, your dog would 'eat you'. Dogs are not part of the family, [b'>[b'>they are animals with animal instincts[/b[/b'>'>. As Stuart says, as far as your dog is concerned, you are meat, with a voice. Nothing makes me angrier than pet lovers. Sorry. So are humans. We are animals as well, with instinct and bigger brain ( some have less of that brain then others :)
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Latest post on 24 April 2014 - 07:42
I'm one of those people who holds strong opinions and am prepared to give them about dogs. If you died at home and your dog was there what do you think would happen? To quote Stuart Lee, educated British stand up comedian, your dog would 'eat you'. Dogs are not part of the family, [b'>they are animals with animal instincts[/b'>. As Stuart says, as far as your dog is concerned, you are meat, with a voice. Nothing makes me angrier than pet lovers. Sorry.
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Latest post on 20 April 2014 - 16:00
Hi, I wanted to check if I could get lady drivers who could pick and drop off my kids in evening to different classes. we stay in Arabian Ranches and am looking for the facility till DPS Dubai and to the Studio City. Pink taxis, all female drivers.
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Latest post on 08 April 2014 - 14:15
I am looking for embellished clutches for women (such as the examples below, see link) http://stylinspire.com/trends/trend-the-embellished-clutch/ Any idea where I can get them in wholesale? I suspect Meena Bazar - but where exactly-- would anyone know? I would need about 30 pieces (PS: Not looking for designer options! these will be party gifts :) ) Hi, try Dragon Mart, I've seen plenty of these type of bags there. And most of the shops are wholesalers anyway so you can haggle down the price.
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Latest post on 04 April 2014 - 10:19
When I lived in the Ranches almost 5 years ago we also had security issues. I'm SAHM so I was pottering outside quite a lot. Every day I would see people just wandering about, and I knew they were not my neighbours. Must have been house boys, gardeners or people just walking in from outside. I would always lock myself inside, but few times I heard someone trying to open my door, my dogs would start barking and spook the person away, so never got a chance to catch anyone. Worst one was when someone managed to get to my neighbours garden and then use their ladder and try to jump over into my garden. Fortunately my DH and his friend acted quickly .I reported it to security then Emaar but never got any response. The were bike thefts and other items from the car ports, garage thefts. With high cost landlords have to fork out for the maintenance plus tenants are paying their rents to live in a compound, something has to be done to improve this situation.
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Latest post on 04 April 2014 - 10:05
No rain yet and only the odd rumble but lots and lots of lightning, quite a show! I got woken up at 3.30 am to the sound of my massive garden table being thrown about 10 meters! wind was crazy, lightening and rain. Today it's cloudy( which I love) but gosh it is stuffy.
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Latest post on 04 April 2014 - 10:01
Need some help.... tia Hi, I usually make cake pops myself, and bring it to the classroom. But we were informed by our teacher of any allergies children can have. Non in my class but still no nuts and no pork rule. Perhaps ask class teacher if there are any kids with allergies, and them you can bake treats yourself or buy some. Another option is fruit skewers ( or fruit salad in individual cups), healthy, fresh, and tasty. Hope that helps.
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Latest post on 27 March 2014 - 09:53
I gave birth to my DD 3 years ago in American hospital. Can't fault it. But as for Emergency it was an absolute nightmare or maybe my bad luck.
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Latest post on 27 March 2014 - 09:46
I wonder what admin took under consideration in giving people the 'qualification'? number of posts, how long have they been a member? Well, it answers my own question, it only counts the posts. I've only got 350, therefore I'm an explorer yet I have joined to EW almost 5 years ago.
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Latest post on 27 March 2014 - 09:44
I wonder what admin took under consideration in giving people the 'qualification'? number of posts, how long have they been a member?
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Latest post on 26 March 2014 - 08:14
Loads of discouraging and negative messages I see. Yes, I do realise that cost of living in Dubai has risen ( rent, food, etc.) but 22 000 dhs is not that bad. Every one has different ways of living. If company is providing health insurance, flights home, maybe your husband could negotiate help with schooling. Some companies help with rents as well ( they will pay the rent fees for you and deduct monthly from salary) And there is loads of apartments for rent that you can pay in 3 or 4 cheques. Any way, you have still year and a half till your son starts school. It all depends what your expectations are when coming here. I would give it a go. Even if it's for career or/and life experience. Good luck with making your decision.
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Latest post on 12 March 2014 - 22:47
New Look has few choices in wide fitting shoes as well.
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Latest post on 25 November 2013 - 21:47
I'm heading to Dragon Mart tomorrow hoping to find some reasonably priced made to measure curtains/blinds for our new villa but just wondering if anyone can recommend any specific 'stores/units' in Dragon Mart to head to first? Thanks Susie Hi Susie, I've had curtains made from Dragon Mart, with black out, good fabric and god price as well. My advice would be not to go to the shops on the main 'street' but try going into small streets behind. On the main bit they tend to sell stuff at higher prices, weather behind you get same stuff, same quality for much cheaper. And bargain as well. Good luck
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Latest post on 21 November 2013 - 15:49
Hi, I have a picture that is A3 size, i just bought a frame (knowing full well it would be too big but there wasn't much choice) . The frame measures 40x50cm. I am wanting to back the picture onto some black or coloured card. Does anyone know where i can find single sheets of card this size or bigger? Many thanks, Victoria. edited by VictoriaO on 21/11/2013 The Office
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Latest post on 21 November 2013 - 13:47
Has anyone seen these kind of simple headchains/ head pieces around town? And within the same price range? Around 50 aed. http://thechiqjewelry.com/collections/headbands-chains/products/simple-rhinestone-headchain I've seen similar ones in New Look but can't remember the price.
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Latest post on 21 November 2013 - 13:36
Hello Ladies, Do any of you know where I can purchase bubble wrap by the metre please? Ideally the big bubble stuff rather than the small bubbles. TIA Ace does it.
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Latest post on 10 November 2013 - 15:29
Not sure, but this are directions I copied from the website regarding Christmas warehouse: Falcon Gallery Behind Oasis Centre and in front of Al Quoz cemetary Al Quoz Tel: +971 4 3385733
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Latest post on 10 November 2013 - 15:26
I had some pieces of furniture made to order in Karama. Best option is to print out the picture of what you want, give the dimensions, chose colour and bargain on the price :) They will deliver and assamble as well.
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Latest post on 10 November 2013 - 15:26
I had some pieces of furniture made to order in Karama. Best option is to print out the picture of what you want, give the dimensions, chose colour and bargain on the price :) They will deliver and assamble as well.
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Latest post on 10 November 2013 - 15:23
What is it with people not throwing toilet paper down the toilet, but rather allow it to build up in the rubbish bin under the sink? How do I politely ask people to throw it down the toilet? Perhaps leave a polite note? asking to flush the smelly used toilet paper or empty the bin after each use.
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Latest post on 10 November 2013 - 15:20
the location is behind Oasis Centre and opposite Al Qouz cementary. I will be going to this Werehouse sometime thos week so I will post feedback.
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Latest post on 26 October 2013 - 15:32
Hi ladies, got a Halloween party coming up and need to find red pipe cleaners (those bendy fuzzy things kids use in arts and crafts) and a chef hat. Already scoured MOE with no luck, other suggestions??? Thanks! Have you tried Daiso? they are pretty good with these kind of art and craft stuff.
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Latest post on 21 October 2013 - 18:51
Hi, will email u later when kids gone to bed:) aswqa and all small grocery shops deliver. If u mean take away then all reataurants from Mirdif City Centre and local cafes and restaurants deliver without a problem.
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Latest post on 21 October 2013 - 18:20
I love this area do they have any small villas? There are loads and loads of new villas built, there's loads of older ones too, as well as many Al Warqaa's ( 1 to 5 I think) :) depends what u consider small. Ps there is a small villa opposite mine, but someone moved in not so long ago.
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Latest post on 21 October 2013 - 18:13
Hello, My husband and I are moving to Al warqaa 3 in 2 weeks. Any other expats living there? How is it to live there? Maybe we could arrange a coffee morning there? Would be great to hear from a lot of you:-) Hi there, I live in Al Warqaa 3, very close to aswaq, and expat.I love living in this area. Let me know if u fancy coffee, if u have kids we could arrange play dates as well. Cheers apr04
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Latest post on 15 September 2013 - 15:49
Where do they typically stock a good selection of children's Halloween costumes in Dubai? Was at Ibn Battuta at the Toy Store and their selection was abysmal. All Disney characters and a very limited assortment at that. My 3 year old has said he wants to be a monkey or Swiper the Fox from Dora. Neither easy to accomplish. He's the size of a 5 year old, so toddler sized costumes won't work. Anyone know where they may stock a better selection of options? Maybe some animals? Thank you!
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Latest post on 15 September 2013 - 15:48
Where do they typically stock a good selection of children's Halloween costumes in Dubai? Was at Ibn Battuta at the Toy Store and their selection was abysmal. All Disney characters and a very limited assortment at that. My 3 year old has said he wants to be a monkey or Swiper the Fox from Dora. Neither easy to accomplish. He's the size of a 5 year old, so toddler sized costumes won't work. Anyone know where they may stock a better selection of options? Maybe some animals? Thank you! Hi, there is a shop in Dragon Mart that sells costumes for kids. Wide selection of animal costumes as well as other stuff to choose from. THT
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Latest post on 26 August 2013 - 21:21
I've been to ACE in Festival City couple days ago and the only paint test pots available were Dulux ones, and some other company. But very, very limited choice, literally 10 colours of each make.
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Latest post on 18 August 2013 - 13:17
I've been to Dragon Mart recently to have a look at garden furniture, haven't seen any aluminium ones though. Actually I don't recall seeing this type of garden furniture anywhere here in Dubai, but maybe other ladies can help.
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Latest post on 18 August 2013 - 13:17
I've been to Dragon Mart recently to have a look at garden furniture, haven't seen any aluminium ones though. Actually I don't recall seeing this type of garden furniture anywhere here in Dubai, but maybe other ladies can help.
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Latest post on 18 August 2013 - 13:14
Desperately looking for bamboo sticks (for small trees support in garden). The ones I see in garden center are too thin, I need some of about 3-4cm thick, 3 - 3.5m long. But no clue where to go look for them. Anybody seen larger bamboo sticks around? Thanks! Have you tried plant souk ( warsan)? lost of nurseries there, always loads of plants at cheap prices
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Latest post on 18 August 2013 - 13:14
Desperately looking for bamboo sticks (for small trees support in garden). The ones I see in garden center are too thin, I need some of about 3-4cm thick, 3 - 3.5m long. But no clue where to go look for them. Anybody seen larger bamboo sticks around? Thanks! Have you tried plant souk ( warsan)? lots of nurseries there, always loads of plants at cheap prices <em>edited by apr04 on 18/08/2013</em>
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Latest post on 14 August 2013 - 22:49
I think Ikea does this type of bed in their 'day bed' section. you can check out in their online catalogue. HTH
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Latest post on 24 July 2013 - 19:10
Pan Emirates, Pottery Barn, Homes R US, Dragon Mart, and Dubizzle or EW classifieds for pre owned stuff.
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Latest post on 22 July 2013 - 10:27
We have a very large villa and bought carpets/rugs from DragonMart at a very good bulk discount price I second Dragon Mart. Quality, I was supprised, was quite good, lots of colours and patterns to chose from and of course price depends on your bargaining skills :) Overall cheap and good.
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Latest post on 22 July 2013 - 10:24
Goodness - better place my move to Dubai on hold! We are in a seven bed and only pay 170k in another Emirate....many thanks anyway bblue, rents have gone up dramatically in Dubai recently but you can find beautiful villas( 5 bedroom +) in nice areas for even 160K. Good luck if you decide to move to DXB.
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Latest post on 22 July 2013 - 10:20
Posh Paws petting zoo might help, they have farm where they look after animals that have been abandoned. Donations to them are always helpful.
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Latest post on 22 July 2013 - 10:18
Shop called Cara in Gold and Diamond Park does Arabic lettered neckleces so they might be able to do bracelets as well.
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Latest post on 21 July 2013 - 10:40
I've never left AC on either, when went away. Weather we lived in a villa or apartment.
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Latest post on 21 July 2013 - 10:37
Hi Imamme, first of all congratulations on your pregnancy ! I think al Wasl Hospital ( Latifa Hospital now) used to have quite good packages. You had to sing up at early stages of pregnancy and it covered blood test, scans ( I think 2 or 3 ) check ups with OB, etc. Then delivery costs were quite good prices as well. Besides I think this hospital is one of few in Dubai that is well equipped in neonatal care. here is link to the package programs http://www.dha.gov.ae/En/facilities/hospitals/alwaslhospital/patientsguide/inoutpatient/pages/packageprograms.aspx Hope it helps, take care
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Latest post on 01 July 2013 - 14:49
I am in the same situation looking for blackout curtains and blinds, I've had 3 quotes including Jamal for 2 windows and it's just way too expensive . I have already spent a small fortune on curtains for a rented house and these are the last ones I need due to my DD wakening early with the light in the hall!!. Once you buy the curtains from Dragon mart/Homecentre what do you do about poles and hanging them? are you just doing it yourself? thinking of sending DH while we are on holiday so need all the info for him!! thanks.... You can buy curtain poles in Ikea, dragon mart, ace, etc. then depends on your husband if he can do it himself or get someone to come and put the curtain poles up for him.
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Latest post on 01 July 2013 - 14:43
Thanks ladies. Whats Matalan? never heard of it. Matalan in a shop that sells clothes, and as well has a home section. there is one in Mirdif City Centre and one in Arabian Centre. they have few in Abu Dhabi as well. here is a link http://www.matalan-me.com/store-locator
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Latest post on 01 July 2013 - 12:23
Matalan, Zara Home, Dragon Mart ( always have plenty of choice), Home Center. Hmmm, dont think I'm confident enough to drive to dmart.but I'll check the others out, thanks oh, forgot to mention Max, they seem to have bed spreads in their home section.
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Latest post on 01 July 2013 - 12:14
Thanks for reminding me about this series. I've seen first episode, just downloading the second one.
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Latest post on 01 July 2013 - 12:11
Matalan, Zara Home, Dragon Mart ( always have plenty of choice), Home Center.