Apricot | ExpatWoman.com
 

Apricot

Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 21 September 2014 - 17:26
I think there was a discussion about something similar on Dubai Eye 103.8 in the last little while. Search on the website, they may have it posted somewhere--they usually record and post past shows. It might have been something about boutique hotels, etc. so I'm not sure it is directly related but it might cover trends away from big name hotel brands... A few years ago there was a French guest house that lasted only a short while but I'm not sure of the details and why it was closed. Sorry I can't remember the name... Le Maison.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 21 September 2014 - 17:21
TBH, I would order online. Baking sugar cookies then cutting them out with shapes is more of an American/ Western cultural activity than Arab or Khaleeji tradition... Syrian/ Jordanian/ Lebanese Muslims tend to make ma'amoul cookies for Eid, which are shaped using wooden molds or using special brass pinchers. Contact me if you need brass pinchers, a Jordanian friend gave me a lifetime supply LOL! Solo, I wish they still sold camel/ coffee pot/ khanjar cookie cutters here :) Choithrams opp Safa Park sells cookie cutters in basic shapes.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 21 September 2014 - 16:53
Have you tried doing a google search for "pakistani makeup blog" or "indian makeup blog"? there are some helpful blogs with budget options.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 21 September 2014 - 16:40
Forgot to add below that I've ordered twice from Eileen Fisher (you can also go down in the sizing) but both shipments took more than 3-weeks to arrive! Will likely wait to shop in-person. If you don't mind the wait, her pieces are lovely and great quality. I have one long jersey-silk skirt that I've been wearing non-stop for years ... eileenfisher.com I agree, excellent quality and amazing colors. My local shopping center in the States has an Eileen Fisher boutique :)
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 21 September 2014 - 16:38
Certain items from the Simply Vera by Vera Wang label (Kohls in US, also an Australian dept store sells it); things from llbean.com; clothes from debenhams site; nursing bras from momsmilkboutique.com. I use the sizing guides and have someone else take my measurements prior to ordering. Hi Apricot - some lovely clothing by Simply Vera at Kohls but looks like you need a US billing address to order. Am not an experienced online clothes shopper but thought I might give it a try - how do you order without a UK or US billing address? You can check if Kohls accepts PayPal as payment, and create a Paypal account linked to your UAE credit card. Or, sign up for Aramex Shop and Ship and they have a program where you sign up for a pre-paid credit card with US billing address.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 18 September 2014 - 18:16
I ask my maid to clean bathrooms every other day, unless there's a specific mess that needs cleaning. I don't ask my maid to sweep the garden or wipe down garden furniture as she is busy enough helping me with other tasks. I hire someone else to sweep the garden and wash the car. She wipes down garden furniture when I request it. I ask my maid to clean the inside of all windows once a month while the kids are at school. She divides this task over two-three days. I ask that my maid devote one day a week for her personal laundry, change her bed sheets weekly, clean, mop, vacuum her room and bathroom weekly.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 18 September 2014 - 17:45
THE organic store's prices are SHOCKING. I'm glad that smaller ones are instead popping up everywhere. I also love all the farmer's markets and delivery services. where can I find the farmer's markets and delivery services you are mentioning? Thanks :), looking for great places to buy fresh. www.greenheartuae.com :)
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 18 September 2014 - 17:42
Ok, then it wasn't meant to be. Just seems savvy to pursue subsidized education that your kids are eligible for ;)
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 18 September 2014 - 17:38
Firstly you need to check the rules of where you are living. Poultry are classed as livestock and not pets, so will be banned from most communities. Why is a cockerel allowed to live in a villa and roam the streets in Jum 1 ? I find it quite outstanding - cock a doodle dooo - glad I can't actually hear him from my place, that would drive me insane! Trouble is those aren't actual communities are they, but mostly private villas, so people do what they want. But community areas governed by Emaar, DPG etc clearly state in all the community rules that livestock are not allowed and if caught the get they municipality to remove them. Hens aren't a major issue, it's the cockerels that scream at the crack of dawn that are the problem. edited by FairyDust on 18/09/2014 My cousin calls her guest rooms "the rooster rooms" as you can hear the neighbor's roosters most clearly! She's in Barsha 2.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 18 September 2014 - 17:35
Firstly you need to check the rules of where you are living. Poultry are classed as livestock and not pets, so will be banned from most communities. Why is a cockerel allowed to live in a villa and roam the streets in Jum 1 ? I find it quite outstanding - cock a doodle dooo - glad I can't actually hear him from my place, that would drive me insane! I quite like seeing those chickens while driving the kids to school in the AM! There are two flocks that I know of.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 17 September 2014 - 23:25
Hi Rose, it must be a relief to be diagnosed, and begin the path towards managing mental illness. My mother's schizophrenia, manic depression and bipolar disorder were triggered by post natal depression following my birth, and she has exhibited many of the behaviors described by RuthM, among others. As a child, I was very confused as only my father and her mother were aware of my mother's diagnosis, but she appointed me as her financial trustee once I turned 22 and started leaking cryptic details of her condition. I am her phone counsellor who she checks in with every 2 weeks, or as needed. She continues to take some medication to stabilize her mental health. I am saddened to hear that you lack close family support, but you sound like you are eager to take initiative to manage your condition. Pls seek a support or therapy group, you will need people to contact you when you experience an emotional low.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 17 September 2014 - 22:50
Daiso in Dubai mall have a good selection. I ended up buying the Ikea clear plastic organizers since I store my cosmetics inside a drawer (upper edge locked with Velcro adhesive tape to keep out curious little fingers lol).
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 17 September 2014 - 22:45
CHeck if the nearest public park has tennis courts that you can pre-book. DH often pre-books and plays tennis at Barsha Pond Park. I've seen a "pond park" on Beirut Street, on the right side when driving towards Sharjah, which may be convenient for you.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 17 September 2014 - 22:08
Hi, There is a small shopping mall behind Dubai Garden Center and Audi, i can't recall the name. They have a shop inside that sells hotel supplies. I think they have it. But, sorry can't even remember the name of the shop. The mall is called Courtyard and the shop is called Al Diyafa :)
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 17 September 2014 - 22:05
No so good at it myself so can't teach her! Surely you covered expected duties on the maid's first day? You may still have time to return her to the maid agency in exchange for someone more skilled in domestic chores.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 17 September 2014 - 21:42
I've worn my debenhams shapewear under a long lycra dress and it was undetectable!
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 17 September 2014 - 21:39
I really like Debenham's own brand corset/ shapewear. It looks like a one-piece swimsuit and has attached lycra shorts that lift up butt, thin out upper thighs, pulls in stomach completely without muffin-top bulge. You need to wear your own bra underneath. It's thin, breathable material. I would try on in store and buy the size that feels a bit uncomfortable, shapewear is meant to pull you in a bit!
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 17 September 2014 - 21:30
Hediard or Fauchon?
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 17 September 2014 - 21:21
Anon, have you considered sending your daughters there? It would be a smart move, given that they would make friends with girls from the most influential families, helping them with future schooling, job possibilities, future spouse, etc. I believe the school follows British curriculum. I have a Russian-American friend (married to a local) whose daughter attends.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 17 September 2014 - 20:58
HI Hot Chocolate, thx for sharing!
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 13 September 2014 - 20:24
I'm looking for a hotel with private pool in the UAE or Oman, so far I know about Ziggy Bay, Banyan Tree Beach and Desert, Al Maha and Rotana Cove villas. Any other ones? Many thanks in advance x Just an FYI that the Rotana Cove villa pools aren't enclosed by privacy walls, just clear glass/plastic safety walls. If you're in the pool, you're within full view of everyone else in the surrounding villas, fake canals, overlooking resort buildings. The size and depth are similar to a kids paddling pool.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 13 September 2014 - 20:13
In regards to Faye, I am not sure about Indian dress. She has a boutique in the village mall. Her designs are amazing and the fabric she uses is great quality. She’s a professional seamstress and really knows what she’s doing. Give her a call. Hot Chocolate, could you pls share with us the name of Faye's boutique? I'd rather buy from someone whose tailoring, fabric is tried n tested.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 13 September 2014 - 20:08
Zaks, they have a store in Jumeirah, not sure abt exact location, and one in Uptown Mirdiff. Zaks in Jumeira is in Beach Ctr (blue mall w Burger King) on Beach Rd. Also a Zaks in Barsha, nr Dubai National School.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 12 September 2014 - 23:24
No vouchers, but Maria Bonita on Um al Sheif Rd is great for a quick romantic lunch. DH and I go often. Kitchen 6 at JW Marquise Marriott (voucher) has an awesome lunch buffet from 12.30pm. How much is the lunch at Kitchen 6 please and does it include any water etc? Dh 160/ person, including local still water and sodas. Voucher is in Family Entertainer. <em>edited by Apricot on 12/09/2014</em>
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 12 September 2014 - 23:20
Try Karama, apparently better price than Dragon mart.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 12 September 2014 - 23:18
Ginny's Bakery, AND they give you a discount for placing your order and paying online!
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 12 September 2014 - 23:02
Dubai Ladies Club do Zumba classes though I haven't attended any. I've attended the Ladies Club zumba classes and really enjoyed them.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 11 September 2014 - 10:48
No vouchers, but Maria Bonita on Um al Sheif Rd is great for a quick romantic lunch. DH and I go often. Kitchen 6 at JW Marquise Marriott (voucher) has an awesome lunch buffet from 12.30pm.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 11 September 2014 - 10:40
Will try kite flying this weekend, humidity permitting! Will attempt Arte on Friday. Saturday at Little Explorers
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 11 September 2014 - 10:36
I use tap water for most cooking and for use in the electric kettle. Occasionally I use bottled water in the pressure cooker. My house has its own water tank (which creates some interesting adventures when the pump stops working or the tank overflows) and most pipes were replaced 4 years ago.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 11 September 2014 - 09:35
Wow Bakery on Um Al Sheif Rd make beautiful, delicious finger sandwiches. Also try La Vita Cafe Dubai on Instagram. In a pinch, Union Coops make decent trays of finger sandwiches, ready in 15-20 min. Not as polished looking as other places, but I love their chicken mayo, mini falafel, most flavors.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 September 2014 - 00:21
I ordered from Amazon US when my DSs outgrew their Mothercare cotton terry robes, and am v happy w the quality n sizing. Benetton sometimes stock kids bathrobes (and they go on sale).
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 September 2014 - 00:11
Wht abt the zoo? Is it really worth it? I've heard it's the best I've been to the Singapore zoo and didn't enjoy it much At 3.5 and 1.5 my kids loved Battersea Childrens Zoo. Imagine the Sharjah Animal Farm, only with cooler weather and greener, and that's how toddler friendly it is. The surrounding park is also lovely, perhaps half the size of Singapore Zoo lol. You cross the Thames at Knightsbridge, and you've arrived at Battersea. We took buses to get there.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 September 2014 - 00:02
Spice 1 could be crushed dried chamomile, ba'boonaj. Make tea for tummy aches. Spice 2 can be brewed as tea or chewed whole in small, daily quantities. I know an orthopedic surgeon here who doles out small packets to all his patients as a safe pain medication. Spice 3 can be combined w fresh chopped cilantro and added to vinaigrette salad dressing for potato, beets and cucumber salad, or added to an Arabic cooked yoghurt sauce for stuffed koosa, etc as Ginnee suggests.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 September 2014 - 23:49
An old tip from Khaleej Times, and an Emirati grandma, to encourage flower growth.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 September 2014 - 23:43
You can buy it from the facebook page of that Islamic beauty salon in Al Twar that was ahem "discussed" on here a few months ago, search for username tkoshy. maybe sold at the salon supply store called Millia/ Milia on Dhiyafa/ 2nd December Rd. will keep a look out at supermarkets.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 September 2014 - 23:37
Mamas and Papas sell nice one-piece maternity swimsuits. I have one and it's really nice to wear post-pregnancy as well :) Can you please tell me which mall was that? In Dubai Marina mall, there wasn't anything. Thanks Sorry, I bought my swimsuit 4 yrs ago. Have you tried their branch in Mercato mall, maternity clothes are slow-movers at that branch.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 September 2014 - 00:20
you could contact Emirates Environmental Group for practical help. Ikea sell printed clear labels next to the wall stickers, the sheet includes icons and symbols suitable for recycling bins.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 September 2014 - 00:07
Crushed eggshells, once a month.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 September 2014 - 23:40
Certain items from the Simply Vera by Vera Wang label (Kohls in US, also an Australian dept store sells it); things from llbean.com; clothes from debenhams site; nursing bras from momsmilkboutique.com. I use the sizing guides and have someone else take my measurements prior to ordering.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 September 2014 - 23:32
Mamas and Papas sell nice one-piece maternity swimsuits. I have one and it's really nice to wear post-pregnancy as well :)
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 September 2014 - 23:13
Good places for "mini portions of real food" are Eataly, Carluccio's, Book Munch, Rivington Grill and Tribes (not incl their fish "gougons" which are in fact commercial frozen fish sticks). I took the kids to Bob's Fish n Chips y'day, ordered a kids fish burger and they insisted on the soda. I chose something I would enjoy, then bought an extra fresh juice, split into two paper cups. (Inidentally the staff at Eataly suggested this before I requested.) I have one of my kids bring in a water bottle into the restaurant so they have an alternative.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 05 September 2014 - 23:36
Kings (1st choice), they get the best ratings from KHDA inspectors (who initially based their evaluations on BC schools). Safa gets good reviews from parents and students, nice campus. Jumeira Primary School (Gems BC) gets favorable reviews and their campus is nice. Jumeira Baccalaureate School follows National Curriculum for England and IPC (BC adapted for expat Brits) in the primary years (Pre K to Grade 4) and they are very structured in their learning outcomes, etc. Parents have mixed reviews, but most students look happy. SABIS system may be an option at their Dubai branch. They got a new headmaster in Sept 2014 who is trying to make the school "less of a prison", though you may need to give your child additional tuition in English composition (factual and creative writing), which is weak in the SABIS curriculum. DESS parents seem happy with academics, particularly the Lebanese parents I meet at karate class.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 05 September 2014 - 22:46
Google helped me find this link, which is Western women discussing using henna mixed with other herbal dyes to tone down the orangey-red to something closer to their natural hair and skin tones: http://forums.longhaircommunity.com/showthread.php?t=81450 ( I searched "henna katam mix")
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 05 September 2014 - 22:41
Hi PoshBird Try the French Hairdressing Academy (think it's Loreal?) at Knowlege Village, they do free haircuts and colour for AED 100. The trainee hairdressers are well supervised, but they do take a long time, so don't go in a rush. Enjoy! :) Yeah that si where I was going to suggest, always looking for models :) I suspect my son's nursery teacher goes there ;) She frequently changes her hair color and style.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 05 September 2014 - 22:37
today's lunch was: Butternut squash pistou from the Moro East cookbook, served lukewarm with brown Arabic bread leftover home-made pizza w/ salami, grilled portabello, caramelized onion, basil, fresh mozz tomorrow's dinner: Vietnamese shaky beef served over chard leaves for me (trying to return to low carb diet) Indo-Chinese veg manchurian served w jasmine rice for DH pasta w creamy tomato sauce for kids DH has requested either Spotlight Cafe Brownies (from LA Times) or jumbo choc muffins w/ chopped mint choc pieces (to inaugurate my new jumbo muffin tin) in the coming week. last week I tried a baby potato (Australian chat potatoes), boiled beet, sliced cucumber salad w parsley and garlic vinaigrette from MIL's old Australian WW book and it was a light and refreshing dinner. Also made Stevie Parle's Potato Salade Nicoise (from Telegraph UK website) using Australian Chat potatoes and Lebanese Grape Tomatoes, it was fab with and without the fish! mrsb, my kids have refused rice for the past 6 months, eliminating biryani/ makboos from my dinner rotation.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 05 September 2014 - 11:57
If you're considering going down Baniyas Road way, Amanda (ex Hair Corridor) has started her own salon at Sheraton Creek Hotel - Hair Force. Shampoo & Cut 220, Cut & Blowdry 280. Thanks!
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 05 September 2014 - 11:56
I go to Evelyn at the Carleton Hotel in Deira. The salon is not expensive by Dubai standards and they have valet parking which makes it simple. Is this the same Carlton Hotel near the Twin Towers shopping mall? On Baniyas Rd facing the Creek? The Carleton Hotel is on the road running along the creek in Deira, passed the Raddison Blu Hotel. It is on a corner. Actually opposite the abra terminals (Deira side of the creek) Thanks. My go-to salon in Satwa has massively inflated their prices recently.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 05 September 2014 - 11:55
Solgar Whey to go, at Life Pharmacy. I've tried chocolate and strawberry, mixed with sugar free plain soy milk. Both taste good.
Apricot
1987
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 04 September 2014 - 20:33
Carrefour Shindagha and Safestway on Sheikh Zayed Rd are two low-traffic supermarkets that carry the full range of Al Marai milk cartons, incl Lactofree. (I head there when the Union Coop and Spinneys are out of stock.)
 
 
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