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Beebers

Beebers
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Latest post on 03 July 2015 - 07:31
Hi :) It's a big decision for sure, I'll try to highlight things to consider. DH and I don't have children, so I can't really comment much on the schools, but most ladies on this forum say that it can be difficult to find places at the schools; you may not get your first or second choice, and this can be challenging when you are trying to plan where to live based on the location of the school and your DH's work place. I have to disagree with Appletiser, though, as the other Americans I know here are actually staying long term; nearly half have actually bought property. We have been here 5 years and planning to stay for at least another 3. We love the states but the tax break here is a huge benefit. So a good package here could actually leave more money in your pocket than if you were to stay in the US. It also depends what your family plan is, are you moving here in hopes to save a ton of money or for the experience? 1. Where to live: really too many areas to list! First see what the housing budget is from the company, and then check out a website like propertyfinder.ae and search nearby areas to your DH's work, and what the average rent is. To live somewhere you really like, you may be paying an extra $300-$1000 monthly out of pocket as some of my friends here are. Depending on the salary package, this may or may not be worth it to you. If there is no housing budget from the company, that would be a huge con, as you won't be working. DH and I do not have housing but we are dual income with good jobs--plus we've paid much higher rent in places we lived back home like L.A, NY and even Dallas. We live in the Marina and absolutely love it. 2. Salary/cost of living--again there is no income tax for you up to $96,000 per year and you are only taxed on the amount over this. Petrol is obviously much cheaper, groceries about the same, although you will find some produce to be ridiculously expensive. I have simply shifted my preferences and found things I like instead that I never tried before :) Energy bills about the same, comparing to Texas and constantly running A/C half the year. Dining out and entertainment also about the same--except a bar bill will run a LOT more here. 3. Getting around--If you are going to be a one car family, this could be a challenge if you prefer to do the school run rather than utilize the school transport. Hopefully other ladies on the forum can help more with this. If you live in an apartment rather than a villa, you may not have the choice of being a 2 car family as many apartments only come with one parking spot. Also to consider is whether or not your DH will have a car allowance budget on top of his package, that would be ideal. 4. School fees--these can be costly so make sure they are included in the package. If I were you I wouldn't accept a package without it but other ladies might disagree with me Just some food for thought. One last thing--you may never have experienced heat quite like a Dubai summer, but it is definitely manageable. Good luck in your research and your decision!
Beebers
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 01 July 2015 - 17:45
Those are good CP :) I'm boring; I just crank the AC and try not to be outside during peak sun hours. Bingo, where do you go that you need to keep cool with water bottles? I'm seriously curious, not having a go
Beebers
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Latest post on 01 July 2015 - 17:07
Totally agree with Chezmoi, and I hate to rant on diet pills as usual, but here goes. Are you even aware of the mechanism by which Sibutramine works? It can completely jack with your seratonin levels, and increase the risk of a cardiovascular event. My job is also really important to me, but so is my heart and liver. And so is working out, too, so I find the time even though my schedule is nuts and unpredictable. Besides suggesting strangers take a weight loss drug if they cannot fit exercise in their schedule, I think the silliest thing is that...anyone that follows the "recommendations" of drinking more water, eating more fruits and vegetables and eating is healthier is likely going to...lose weight! Because following those recommendations will likely result in a caloric deficit. No magic pills work, sorry.
Beebers
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Latest post on 01 July 2015 - 16:54
Seems pretty slow to me. ? But then again...I don't really get out of the Marina much Haha - you sound like me. If I have to get on SZR - I'm probably not going. Exactly. I travel half the month and am perfectly happy to be in a 3 block radius when I'm home. Now I do have to go to one of the malls on Saturday to buy a laptop so it's encouraging to hear you can park on weekend nights now. But of course I'll go at 10 am sharp :)
Beebers
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Latest post on 01 July 2015 - 07:37
Seems pretty slow to me. ? But then again...I don't really get out of the Marina much
Beebers
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 01 July 2015 - 06:49
It takes considerably longer to gain a customer than it does to lose one, but in these cases, a savvy salon manager or owner can turn an unhappy customer into a customer for life depending on how they handle the situation. Sometimes I wonder if business owners or managers here get frustrated with a transient client base, and have the attitude that people will just leave and move on anyway regardless. It's a tough and unique market. As for the stylist, really wouldn't want someone cutting or coloring my hair if they are having a bad day! I'd have left and gone elsewhere--or if she is a really good stylist, come back another time. It is hard to find the right one. Last time I was in the US I drove 6 hours to see mine. My friends (and my stylist) thought I was bat **** crazy but I've had too many atrocious cuts here and was disinclined to continue experimenting.
Beebers
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Latest post on 01 July 2015 - 06:33
I'm with LC on this one. I've only been an expat for 7 years, so I wouldn't say I am seasoned, but I am well used to my favorite beauty products or pantry items not being readily available or discontinued. (Expat or not, my favorite cosmetics seem to get discontinued really). I guess a possibility would be jeans? If my favorite denim brand stopped making the style and fit that I can so conveniently pick up off the rack or order online, that would be irritating. But then it's happened before and I always find something new and better. It also forces me to change my style up every so often which is good :)
Beebers
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Latest post on 28 June 2015 - 14:36
I heard this a couple of years back, comparing the air quality in Sharjah to the likes of some cities in China. I don't know...I was in Beijing in the Spring and had horrific respiratory issues and even eye issues following a 4 day trip. I spent some time dining on patios (okay, and beer gardens) and visiting a few tourist attractions and while the air seemed really clear and crisp--apparently not! Just can't believe it's the same same
Beebers
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 27 June 2015 - 11:11
I would probably make her pay if it hurt enough to make a point without putting her in debt. Because, it may teach her to be more careful and judicious with her employer's money; this is not a charity. What is the incentive to not cost the employer money if you are never responsible for it? Judging by previous posts, I don't know if she is taking VicM for a ride or just doesn't give a rip either way. In the labor law (not applicable to domestic workers) I believe you can actually terminate someone's contract early if they cost the company an egregious amount of money. We have dealt with this twice last week in my office. Spent a lot of money and time building a customer relationship, and a blatant error from an individual another department may cost us this business. If there is a direct relationship between the error and loss of the customer, do we terminate the employee? Another example, someone in logistics has been behind the ball, as we have had to expedite things for no good reason in order to make deadlines which costs about 500-1000 AED a pop this past month. Do we penalize the employee financially for being careless so they quit making these errors? I think it is not a matter of who has more wealth, the point is to stop the money wasting and carelessness.
Beebers
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 26 June 2015 - 07:09
Easy, get up an hour or so earlier. These days I am up by 4:30 else I won't fit it in. You can also do a true high intensity workout in 20 mins, it is all you need, and most of the time, it can be all body weight exercises. 3-4 of those a week is how I am getting by and my jeans are looser than ever. Just set your alarm and do something. Flippin' heck........ how much sleep do you get? 6.5 hours usually. I honestly don't think I could function on that little sleep. 23:00 to 23:30 bed at the latest and then up around 05:30 - 06:00 is bad enough. I always thought the older you got the less sleep you needed, but that doesn't seem to be the case with me :( Right, it is different for everyone. If you're not stressed, relying on caffeine, and digestion and other health markers are good, then you are sleeping enough. No matter what time I go to bed, I wake up about 6.5 hours later. Because exercise is all about consistency, and I couldn't seem to achieve that in evening workouts, I go for morning. At 5 or 6 am nothing else is vying for my time, so it works. It also energizes me for the day, I feel accomplished. :) That's why I recommend it.
Beebers
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 25 June 2015 - 12:00
Easy, get up an hour or so earlier. These days I am up by 4:30 else I won't fit it in. You can also do a true high intensity workout in 20 mins, it is all you need, and most of the time, it can be all body weight exercises. 3-4 of those a week is how I am getting by and my jeans are looser than ever. Just set your alarm and do something. Flippin' heck........ how much sleep do you get? 6.5 hours usually.
Beebers
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 25 June 2015 - 11:44
Easy, get up an hour or so earlier. These days I am up by 4:30 else I won't fit it in. You can also do a true high intensity workout in 20 mins, it is all you need, and most of the time, it can be all body weight exercises. 3-4 of those a week is how I am getting by and my jeans are looser than ever. Just set your alarm and do something.
Beebers
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 23 June 2015 - 15:33
I've been a total gypsy as well, except the travel is for work. I seem to be the harbinger of doom as well--I book my trip, and then lo and behold, get the weather updates and freak out. 2 floods, a tornado, and 2 hurricanes since early May! I stress about flying in those conditions :/ Actually..I rather miss that weather now that I am in the sandpit for another 2 weeks. This is not my favorite time of year
Beebers
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Latest post on 23 June 2015 - 13:19
Hi Ladies, I generally have good skin and only apply a tinted moisturiser from MAC on an evening out and it gives me a good coverage although its not as long lasting due to it being a moisturising one. I am 40 years old but been told I dont look my age - touch wood. A few of my friends are getting married and I will be attending numerous events. I went for a makeover at MAC - My friend looked gorgeous after the trial - I looked like a cake; Dont get me wrong - the foundation applied gave me a natural look -it called studio fix. but, after a few hours, my facial lines started showing through and i started feeling like my makeup was cracking. It was applied very lighly. I have combination dry/dehydrated skin. Drink lots of water, put enough moisturiser and the right moisturiser and also exfoliate regularly. My skin was also prepped properly before applying it on. So what went wrong. I have been told that MAC is generally quite heavy and there are other makeup brands that are better. I am a fair asian (paksitani/indian) with yellow tones in my skin so Mac range fits my skin tone but it seems like it does not match texture wise - dont want to look matt/dry. Can anyone please advise? I dont need advise on skin care please as I already use products that work well on me. Its a foundation that I am looking for with light coverage, long lasting and should not give me a matt/cakey look. Really would appreciate your help please.[b'>[/b'> I love Guerlain's Lingerie de Peau. Used to use YSL and Dior but would never go back. The coverage in the Guerlain is between light-to-medium. What is crazy is it is so light, however it smooths out uneven skin tone and moderate blemishes. I feel like I just gave away my best kept beauty secret! I also use Laura Mercier setting powder (when I have time and remember to). They have changed the formula from ages ago, unfortunately, but it is still good. Was more of a talc-like consistency and now it is mineral powder-like--I am a bit of a spaz so it tends to fly all over my bathroom. I, too, do not care for a cakey or matte look, however the matte finish does not last long at all, and helps keep it on your face in this steambath weather. I apply it to the t zone area only. If anyone can recommend a loose, invisible setting powder like the old Universal from LM I would be happy to hear you out!
Beebers
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 21 June 2015 - 05:17
I, too, was exchanging emails with a rep from Pacific Prime a year or so back, and he was extremely helpful. The plans ran between 5000-8000 AED annually for my husband and I, and we did not want the claim back option so these were direct billing. They are brokers, so they offered plans from BUPA, NOW, and a couple of other carriers I can't remember. I ended up getting health insurance through my job as did DH so we did not end up getting one of those plans. They were quite helpful, but I have also heard great things about Oman Insurance, who I believe is also a broker, not sure.
Beebers
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 19 June 2015 - 13:46
Sun and Sand Sports outlet sells it at the checkout counter at the Al Quoz outlet, perhaps they also sell it at the other myriad of locations throughout Dubai--not sure.
Beebers
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 13 June 2015 - 01:38
That stinks that your children love her, because barring that--I would let her go, because anyone that works for me has to do a good job. Enough stress in my life without having to check and recheck the tasks that are supposed to be making my life easier, no? Regarding FB, the venting part wouldn't **** me off, it would be the part where it felt like a violation of privacy. I am very weird about social media like that. Taking internet away is not equivalent to abuse, but mean enough when it is a lifeline to friends and family. Actually, she probably could afford it herself, as I know a few people here salaried the 4000 AED range that do indeed pay for their own internet..housing..food....transport.......etc. Just something to consider.
Beebers
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 13 June 2015 - 01:21
I forgot about this thread :) Last month I was in Texas, and I was struck by how absolutely nice and friendly (almost) everybody was. I went to a public restroom in a restaurant, and seriously, it was crazy! "Oh, by the way, there's no tissue in that one," "Oh, honey I think you were first!" "Wow what a nice outfit!" "Oops, I'm sorry, I'm in your way!"Another lady handed a towel to the lady next to her struggling to reach, and another elderly lady came in with ladies letting her queue first. It was like the Stepford wives :) That's because people in Texas (and the rest of the south) take pride in their manners - kind of like how women here take pride in their Birkins but different. Ha, well, they can also be pretty quick to gossip too :) I lived there many years. I think in general Americans are pretty friendly--or at the very least, hardly ever will someone bump into you and not say "excuse me" or "I'm sorry." Personal space is something people are very conscious of. In fact, I remember walking to work from the train station years ago in a big American city--I could probably make it the entire 8 city blocks without anyone bumping into me, even in morning rush. That's how much people just don't want to brush up on each other I guess!
Beebers
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 07 June 2015 - 20:50
Thanks! :)
Beebers
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 07 June 2015 - 19:43
I forgot about this thread :) Last month I was in Texas, and I was struck by how absolutely nice and friendly (almost) everybody was. I went to a public restroom in a restaurant, and seriously, it was crazy! "Oh, by the way, there's no tissue in that one," "Oh, honey I think you were first!" "Wow what a nice outfit!" "Oops, I'm sorry, I'm in your way!"Another lady handed a towel to the lady next to her struggling to reach, and another elderly lady came in with ladies letting her queue first. It was like the Stepford wives :)
Beebers
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 02 June 2015 - 19:55
Can't any place be boring if you don't have much to do, or don't like where you are? Unless I have been truly stuck, I've never stayed anywhere I didn't like. I just move. I understand that is not an option for everyone, but it's important to try and make the best of it, too, or you'll just go crazy.
Beebers
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 02 June 2015 - 19:31
I don't understand where you are saying the nails are breaking, but one time at my regular place, I had a different girl as mine was busy--and 3 of my nails broke off in days. She was filing them back and forth, and sometimes this can cause it. You are supposed to start from the outside of the free edge and file inward, never back and forth--single direction. If they take too much off the top layer to remove ridges with a buffer, then obviously this wears them down too. Some techs also are slower than others, so make sure they don't expect you to soak one hand for too long while they are working on the other. If you soak too long this can cause stress when they file the free edge. Nail tek is a pretty good product for strengthening in between polishes; I have seen it at the Nail Spa I think--whatever is in Marina Mall.
Beebers
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 29 May 2015 - 04:52
In a taxi, headed home from DXB airport. Radio silence for 15 minutes, then Driver: You are coming from where? Me: X country Driver: And now you are coming to Dubai? Me: (?) Yes that's right. Driver: You prefer X country more than Dubai? Me: No, I just flew there for a meeting Driver: You are from which country? Me: Y country Driver: You prefer Y country or Dubai? Me: I suppose Dubai Driver: One more tiny question? Me: Yes? Driver: Man or woman? Me: Excuse me? Driver: Man or woman? Me: Which do I prefer???? Driver: No...which are you? Me: I'm a woman. (I smile. Did this just happen?) Driver: I was not sure. But you are very beautiful Me: Errrr thanks :thinking:
Beebers
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 27 May 2015 - 08:16
I always used to find cornmeal at Lulu Barsha in the Mexican food section but the supply dried up (last time I went was ages ago, though). I did in fact get some, I think the Bob's Red Mill brand at Organic Foods in the Greens. I know it can be an inconvenient trip, but it last me ages. I think I have also seen some at Geant in Ibn Battuta in their organic section--but can't be quoted on that.
Beebers
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 26 May 2015 - 20:42
Just my two cents...I drink a ton of water in between meals (3L daily) and start the day with oatmeal and fiber--but I am still ravished throughout the day sometimes, especially on the days where I start off with a workout. I find myself more hungry when I get less sleep the night before, too. I drink a cup of coffee with creamer a couple of times a day at work if my stomach's growling is distracting me (and it is not quite time for a meal) but the real issue is being at home. Then is when I can get munchy. For this, I keep carrots and pickles in the house. Or get off my duff and do something active. Distraction is helpful, and sometimes you have to ask yourself if you are bored and looking for a food buzz!
Beebers
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Latest post on 24 May 2015 - 14:28
Flydubai is owned by Emirates, so their standards are high. Best budget airline I have flown with. Wow, didn't know that. I am flying with them tomorrow, could not justify spending an extra 1100 AED for the same one hour flight on Emirates! Plus the miles wasn't worth it...
Beebers
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Latest post on 24 May 2015 - 14:27
I've never flown Spirit, but heard both that they are fine and also the occasional nightmare story from my family/friends about them. When possible, I always fly Delta or United if the need arises. I miss Northwest and Continental :( The domestic carriers there are getting really gross.
Beebers
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Latest post on 15 May 2015 - 11:54
Littleone, that's so funny--DH and I have similar interchanges with the watchmen in our building and I swear--it could be the same one based on what you are describing LOL. we do the nickname thing too
Beebers
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Latest post on 10 May 2015 - 22:28
Beebers, whilst I agree that a business can 'choose' it's clients, in an industry where a trainer is judged by how well he/she transforms bodies, by applying your logic, you are artificially inflating the trainer's success rates. If you only select 'winning horses', you will win every time. [b'>The real challenge and sign of a good trainer is someone who can transform exactly the people with all the excuses you mention. [/b'>Otherwise, if this gym only selects people they can work with, based on some psychological tests, then I would take their 'success stories' and 'testimonials' with a pinch of salt! I see what you're saying, and I agree with most of it. As I mentioned earlier, Amir changed my mindset which is why I continue to get results. He did not do it by kissing my ass and telling me my faulty logic was okay, but he told me exactly what I needed to hear, which was tough talk. He is not for everyone. But it is not about picking only winning horses...it is about picking people that are serious about change and the committed ones; they don't have to be mind control ninjas or in good shape to begin with. That's not the point. We have no idea what interchange happened during this woman's application process that led to her not being selected. All that is known is the aftermath which I think has gotten way too much attention, personally. Symmetry is not the only gym or the best for everyone. This incident represents a bigger issue. I think it's clear I am in the minority here (or maybe all by myself!) but I think the world would be a better place if more people just got over themselves and viewed the world with less entitlement and didn't expect everyone to coddle them. I spend less and less time on the computer, don't do social media, because all you hear about is people who are offended and want everyone to be offended with them. The next thing you know, we rush to pacify people and call for apologies, censorship, and punishment for the offending parties. We are becoming a rant culture, a mob culture, and a culture of wimps.
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Latest post on 10 May 2015 - 20:27
Spoken like someone who is truly brainwashed by their MO. You don't 'select' people you 'think' will work hard, you have to give EVERYONE the opportunity to make changes, not be elitist. And there are many excellent trainers out there who don't harp on about being the most 'expensive' and don't call people 'fat' - they encourage and motivate appropriately and their clients get results. Sorry but these people are idiots.And if Amir wants to go around calling people FAT - he might want to stop and think how stupid he looks with his obviously dyed beard!!!! edited by FairyDust on 08/05/2015 I am not Amir's marketing director. His comments and advertising angle is not appealing to everyone and he can come across as an ass. Oh well! I don't care about that, I am not even on Facebook. I heard about him after I saw my own friend transform after working with him, and after she had gotten nowhere with other trainers. He did wonders for me, in terms of changing my thinking patterns and I continue to get results long since I have quit training with him. That's gold to me, and the marks of a true coach versus an average trainer, even though I disagree with some of his dietary mantras and other minor things. I'm not brainwashed. I'll reiterate that I would never call anyone fat, but I do think it is a descriptive word and I think people are quite oversensitive about it. When I was fat, it did not bother me to be called fat in an objective way. Yes, believe it or not, it's dead true. I could go on about how it is not okay to use the word fat these days, but it is okay to be "fit-bullied," "skinny-bullied," or told you look like a man because you have muscular arms, but I digress. Tired of it. On your other point, when you own your own business, you don't exactly "have to" do anything. It may be your gain or demise, but there are many industries where people are select with clients they work with and they have to the right to do so; business is not charity. We have no idea the evaluation that went on, or how they determined that this woman was someone they could not help. I can't think of any trainer I have ever met that does not get frustrated with clients that start off with a list of things they won't do or can't handle. "I can't diet, I need my sweets, I can't give up XYZ, I can't drink all that water, I don't like to sweat" or they have a long list of justifications why they are overweight and cannot lose it despite their best efforts. In the same breath, they will tell you the long list of things they would like to change about themselves. It is more common than not and extremely frustrating--frustrating especially for trainers who truly DO wish to make a difference and help as many people as possible, but all they get is pushback and excuses from the very people who pay them to help them!? So if you do not have the resources in terms of square footage, staff, or time slots to take on every client who applies, what on earth is wrong with being more selective about who you are more confident you can help?
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Latest post on 08 May 2015 - 06:26
Amir is actually a really nice guy and yes I have trained there. He does say stuff to provoke and I will agree with the comments in the article--it might have been harsh but I think the woman is taking it way out of proportion. He had called me out on some of my bull**** justifications and excuses, but all it did was benefit me, and keep me honest with myself. And sorry, fat is fat. It is not an insult, it is a descriptive word just like "tall" is. (not that I go around calling people that!) They do select people who apply to the gym who they think will work hard and follow the program and I guess you could call it a QC issue because they offer a money back guarantee. Plenty of "fat" people train there; that is not what matters. They are out to make changes in people's lives.
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Latest post on 29 April 2015 - 21:07
Discipline will carry someone far in life. !! :) Whether I turned out well is relative, but I did all those things for free as a child!
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Latest post on 29 April 2015 - 20:48
Just the other side of the coin here? I'd advise your friend to go the neighbor directly, if she knows which apartment it is. I had a similar situation and I was at first annoyed with sleep disruption and then...worried someone was possibly being abused. Same thing, screaming and banging. I tried to knock on the door when it was calm, but there was never an answer. So I left a note asking if everything was okay, and we were worried to point where we wanted to know if they need help or if we need to/should call the police. I received a note back with an apology; they had a special needs teenager and had no idea the walls were not keeping this noise contained--they were mortified. So you never know. Going straight to the cops is kind of ridiculous if you have not even tried to confront the neighbor to address the situation. And if your watchmen or security won't help you if you're scared to talk to them, that's also ridiculous.
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Latest post on 28 April 2015 - 12:33
Why did u have to post that Lolacat? No need to be nasty! Yuck is not nasty, it's yuck a word, let's try not to get to dramatic. I would have laughed if you said that to me, and then explained why. Everyone is so touchy on this board, it's why I hardly come on anymore. You have to read through a whinge fest.
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Latest post on 27 April 2015 - 20:29
I've conceded to spend the money on the quality brands, and take advantage of sales--when they're on, I double up. When I find a good quality brand of shirts or shorts that flatters me and doesn't cost the earth, I buy 10-15 of everything. And it is not usually in Dubai. Needless to say, I have a rather boring array in my closet :)
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Latest post on 27 April 2015 - 20:13
Beebers I can't imagine you being a nervous driver! That seems so unlike the online Beebers! Haha! Heck yes I get nervous, nervous I am going to get lost! I missed a very important meeting once and it traumatized me. I also really don't like Bur Dubai, Karama, or Deira because I don't know my way, I take one wrong turn, and I'm in the **** for an hour. I've mastered Satwa, and I'm slowly working on it. I know I am missing out on a lot.
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Latest post on 27 April 2015 - 17:02
You should definitely not put it off for ever. I said I would never drove here and after 3yrs I finally got a car and now I drive everywhere.[b'> I still dont know where I am going and dont know what I would do without google maps.[/b'> Face your fears, its not that bad once you get used to it. Trust me if I can drive here anyone can This made me laugh!!!! Same, except been driving here 5 years and I still have to map-check most places I go! I used to get a little nervous heading to new places, or when I would wind up on an unfamiliar highway with no turnaround in sight. For anyone nervous about getting lost, I recommend always having at least a half full tank, that'll sort it out. As for the craziness, you get used to it, your senses sharpen with traffic. @Sarahlou, Friday mornings are still my favorite time to drive. Rarely go out Thrs nights so I can sort out my errands when it's dead on the roads :)
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Latest post on 26 April 2015 - 18:39
You'll never go to the gym, and afterwards think "ugh I wish hadn't done that" :) You just have to drag yourself there knowing you'll feel better after. And lucky you, no pain? Makes it even easier :)
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Latest post on 26 April 2015 - 06:50
Hi, assuming you are looking at those because they are at the "entrance" to the Marina, and have some nice marina views? Haven't lived in any you mentioned, but here are some other ideas. I would suggest Park Island, but I think that on that particular bridge, turning right can be congested. I loved living there. I am trying to remember if you need to do that to get to the Trident Bayside anyway though. Sorry I am rusty on that. Alternatively, really it is not much further to go down two more signals off the feeder road near Marina Mall and check out Silverene, Marina Quays, and Bay Central. I know Silverene and BC have good pools, and BC has a decent gym. The nice thing is you are only making right turns once you exit SZR which makes a tremendous difference.
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 26 April 2015 - 06:38
Movingaround, peak traffic areas can be rough here, so if you live in a congested area that is like a bottleneck to get in and out of, and then sit in a long queue for school drop off and pick ups, you *might* spend a lot of time in your car doing the school runs. Tallybalt gave great advice. If it was me personally, I would do the same and look at Jumeirah and Umm Suqeim if it fits on your budget. You mentioned you wouldn't mind a buzzing area, and I know what you mean! I don't care if it was a mansion, I couldn't live somewhere quiet or way out of town. We live in the Marina which most people consider a nightmare, construction and congestion-wise, but it is hardly worse than other major cities I have lived in. DH and I said if we were ever to switch to a villa, we'd look at Jumeirah or Umm Suqeim so that we didn't feel isolated. There are tons of nice shopping boutiques, cafes, and restaurants.
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 25 April 2015 - 11:06
In Dubai Mall, there is an entire strip of watches stores along the Main entrance where Tiffany & Co and Cartier are located. Rivoli has a large selection offering different brands, but it is easy enough to walk into each store along that strip. Piaget, MontBlanc, Breguet, Rolex, Tag Heuer, etc.
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 25 April 2015 - 09:15
I'm sure you get far too many of these questions BUT husband is in the last stages of agreeing a job in Dubai ([b'>although last stages seem to be taking a while[/b'>, is this good prep for things to come?). That's not abnormal, I would not take that as a bad sign. As Lolacat said, make sure the school fees and housing are negotiated. If the school fees are included, that's huge. Some companies will offer to pay a set amount for housing and it is up to you to find the place. In this case, do a little research on a website like propertyfinder.ae to get an idea what the going rate is for different neighborhoods, and make sure it's enough. In other cases they may offer you furnished corporate housing. That can be a plus as it saves you the hassle of finding a place on top of searching for school openings, but it may not be your optimal choice for neighborhoods or setup. Another thing to consider is whether or not you want to ship over a container or look for furnished villas/apartments. It's just my DH and I here, so we decided it was more economical to furnish ourselves. Agree with Polly about DIFC. I worked there and did not have a parking space. The metro was convenient but I hated taking it in the summer months, and on Thursdays. Good luck!
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 23 April 2015 - 20:18
I thought Banana Republic trousers were suitably long. I am a 34 inseam and needed them shortened a bit. For denim, not that you asked, I go to Bloomingdale's denim department. Paige and Citizen seem to suit longer legs.
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 23 April 2015 - 15:12
Movenpick Bur Dubai (the one near Wafi) used to do a Saturday British fare brunch. We liked it, and there were children there, although no activities that I could see.
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 20 April 2015 - 08:05
Does anyone know where I can find this? edited by Oopsiedaisy on 19/04/2015 Have you tried the Dubai Garden center or maybe Ace Hardware? A friend of mine was looking for some a few years back, I think she ended up getting it off Amazon.
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 13 April 2015 - 19:17
I really liked Imperium at Zabeel Saray. Food well worth eating and the atmosphere is buzzzing but not outrageous. It's indoor, and I believe it is the Jazz brunch which is the outdoor area, grill stations, and live music. There were not many children there. There are bars next door like Voda for after drinks. Not that I have been to many, but the One and Only brunch was by far my most favorite--except we went in July and it was dead! I didn't know the O&O did a brunch, which restaurant is it in? I'd love to hear more about that one. For the OP, The Ivy's a great brunch (in my humble opinion) and The Rib Room at Zabeel Saray have just started one which has a nice atmosphere. ha, I just had to look through 3 year old photos to find the surroundings to make sure :) what a laugh! OK it was actually at the One & Only Royal Mirage, in the Rotisserie restaurant. Wonder if it is still going on, can't see on the website. The setting was quaint, but not grand like the entrance and surroundings on the way in. I just remember really feeling cozy and loving the food and the views outside. Our alcohol was purchased a la carte, and for 3 of us it was just under 1000 dhs so it didn't cost the moon.
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 13 April 2015 - 16:32
I really liked Imperium at Zabeel Saray. Food well worth eating and the atmosphere is buzzzing but not outrageous. It's indoor, and I believe it is the Jazz brunch which is the outdoor area, grill stations, and live music. There were not many children there. There are bars next door like Voda for after drinks. Not that I have been to many, but the One and Only brunch was by far my most favorite--except we went in July and it was dead!
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 13 April 2015 - 14:58
Going on year 5 here, my hair seems to have adjusted to the most arid and most humid temperatures here. I don't use bottled water or a shower filter, and it sees plenty of sea water and chlorine. Anyone else noticed that they went from having utterly distressed hair to...nice hair again? I wash my hair about every other day with Keratin's Green line for delicate and distressed hair, and apply the leave in conditioner for heat styling which I also do a lot. The only thing I can think of that is dramatically different in my routine is that I no longer tint or bleach it. I wonder if women with color treated hair experience more hair fall here? Mine was just a mess before I stopped!
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 13 April 2015 - 13:33
I don't think anyone is trying to diagnose OP and I am also against offering medical advice on a forum. I'm certainly not a doctor. Seeing as OP has another visit scheduled and has just come from one, I thought it couldn't hurt to help ease her fears in between as it very well could be nothing and only her doctor will know if it's something. It's not helpful to worry about it in between doctor visits if you're doing everything you can and being vigilant.
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EW MASTER
Latest post on 13 April 2015 - 05:53
Lilypad, I will offer this since you have already cancelled the mammogram at the advice of your doctor. If it is an acne cyst, you can apply a warm water compress to it 3x a day. This will bring it to the surface and shorten the life of the cyst. Don't mess with it other than that, no more prodding or squeezing! The only other way to get rid of it is to have it lanced it or receive a cortisone injection from your doctor. I had something similar to what you are describing on my neck and it scared the life out of me--I was not prone to any acne at all when it cropped up. Using the warm compress method gave me piece of mind, and it also brought it to the surface making it quite obvious by the time of my doctor visit that it was just a rogue acne cyst. Good luck, I am sure you will be fine!
 
 
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