Clairehdp | ExpatWoman.com
 

Clairehdp

Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 13 May 2011 - 16:10
Meat company, Left Bank,
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 13 May 2011 - 09:56
Nothing in Rome then? No but interesting that it was forecast so long ago by that guy - he wasn't far off was he..... very sad. Which guy is this? Very into forecasts and predictions right now Raffaele Bendandi - makes for very interesting reading: http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/worldnews/europe/italy/8505256/Rome-earthquake-Who-was-Raffaele-Bendandi.html
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 13 May 2011 - 09:14
I personally would not allow a 17 year old who is just passing through London to go on her own. Can her Mum not travel with her and make a nice mother/daughter few days instead. At the end of the day - she's viewed as a minor by the hotels - I think saying in some of these places if you are studying is completely different as you get to know a city - passing through is very different.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 13 May 2011 - 09:12
Nothing in Rome then? No but interesting that it was forecast so long ago by that guy - he wasn't far off was he..... very sad.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 13 May 2011 - 08:06
I think OP meant to say "Thank you very much to the ladies for taking the time to give detailed suggestions, I'll definitely look into those. Does anyone else have any more ideas?" :) Yeah I'm sure she did!!!!
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 13 May 2011 - 07:21
I have had an e mail from our key holder out there saying it was pretty frightening and they have been warned to expect more.....
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 12 May 2011 - 22:09
The Head of Seniors who left Repton last year now runs a school in this area, hope everyone is ok there. Ooooh I know exactly where that is - not far from where we have a place - wonder if I can put my kids into their summer school - then I'd have a really nice holiday!!!!!
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 12 May 2011 - 21:21
I wouldn't bother - very tired, equipment pretty rusty - I think its usually open just no one seems to go there anymore - sad.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 12 May 2011 - 21:17
Shakespeares do lovely ready made cakes there's one in town centre by Meadows/Springs and one by park and shop. Le Success do amazing french gateaux they are in Motor City.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 12 May 2011 - 11:05
thanks Clairhdp .... but i dont think kids will be allowed there and we dont drink sooooo i guess not for us :S ETA--- but thanks for sparking the intrest in me i definately am going there sky view or no view :D ...... some tough time ahead for DH lol edited by derbend on 12/05/2011 Depends on how old your kids are - we have taken older children there but I checked with them first. It doesn't matter if you don't drink - instead of the glass of champagne they being a non alcoholic alternative which I thought was lovely as I was not drinking either.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 12 May 2011 - 11:03
I always go to Jebel Ali Immigration to do my housemaid processes. They have their own typists there and they really know what they are doing because that's all they do every day. If you go to where the immigration offices are there are other authorised typist offices but I prefer to go into the office as it's nice and cool and it's never very busy. hth
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 12 May 2011 - 11:00
Ace hardware at Festival City have a really big paint section and the guys in there are super helpful.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 12 May 2011 - 10:02
derbend - book a late afternoon sitting so you can enjoy the sunset too!
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 12 May 2011 - 10:01
ok so i got intrested after seeing this thread and thought WTH lets to do it and now after seeing their website and this thread am extremely confused .... as almost all restuarants in that hotel offer teas ... so which tea is everyone raving about and which tea is not worth it .... i was considering sahn eddar's tea ... is it good? TIA If you've not done it before I would definitley book the sky View afternoon tea. You get into the express life and zoom up to the top of the building. The tables are laid out beautifully and you have the whole view the Palm to the left as you look out and all the way along are the Mina a salaam, madinat and al Qasr with super views of the coast line and those amazing villas - then looking out to the right you have amazing views of Jumeirah Beach hotel and The World islands. Not sure why anyone would book the lobby afternoon tea although I think it included a chocolate fountain but I'd far rather give up the chocolate for the spectacular views of the Sky View Bar. hth - enjoy!
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 12 May 2011 - 09:49
Buddah Bar at the Grosvenor House is alwasy busy - and the bar in the hotel at the top - is it bar 44? can't remember.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 12 May 2011 - 09:16
suze63 I didnt know of any over 500, and I sure wouldnt want to pay more than that anywhere. But we went last week to Bubilicious, (didnt rate it at all to be honest) and in our group of 10 someone was telling me that one place on my orginal list was 800dhs. didnt beleive it then and dont beleive it now. And I didnt put anywhere unusual on there, just the usual suspects. Strange.... Apologies again for the hijack 800 dhs - insane! I would love to know where they charge that much! I agree I think top whack is around 500/600 which is a lot of money!
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 12 May 2011 - 09:14
My friend and I had high tea at the Burj Al Arab. I think we paid 300aed each. It was OK but nothing special. Also, BFC is wrong, where they offer the tea, in the lobby lounge, is looking east so no view. It is a palatial hotel if you are into that but the service and food itself is nothing special. Actually, the waitress dripped coffee on my lap!!! I actually perfer the high tea at the Park Hyatt - a nice selection of food and teas, a nice atmosphere and only 140aed per couple. The Burj is, of course, famous, and you are paying for the privilege of being able to say you have dined there. Then you booked afternoon tea in the wrong place and missed out on the spectacular view. I agree the lobby tea has no great view as it's to the front of the hotel. You need to book afternoon tea in the Sky View Bar at the top and that's when you get the most amazing views. Eliz - If you are leaving Dubai I would say it's a must do treat! Enjoy every minute and every mouthful!
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 11 May 2011 - 21:33
So we finally went this afternoon. And yes, def worth it. Although, more for the experience than anything else. Granted, the scones were divine but I was actually a little disappointed in the rest of the food and I was very surprised at the service all things considered. Very friendly but I didn't find it as professional as one might expect of a 7* hotel! After we finished the scones, the empty plates and stand sat there for a really long time until I finally got someone's attention and asked if we could have the empty plates removed. I assumed they would understand this to mean that we also wanted the next bit. But the next bit didn't seem to be showing up. When I asked about it, I also realised that my tea was gone! I hadn't paid attention because my little girl was getting very fed up and I was watching her. So the head waiter or manager or whoever he was (in a suit) goes off to find out what's happening and comes back and tells me that we've had all our courses!!!! When I told him we hadn't, he very 'magnanimously' pointed out that we were welcome to have more of anything we wanted! I explained that we'd had nothing after the scones and he hurried off again and the next thing I know, there's pastries and chocolates and cake and all sorts being delivered to our table! I hadn't realised we were short three courses! And my replacement tea didn't come until after we'd finished al that! However, nice for the experience. There is no such thing as a 7 star hotel - it's pure pr spin. The top ratings recognised throughout the world has a top rating of 5 star deluxe. We go to these places under the impression that they are going to be completely and utterly amazing because they are 7 stars.....they are not...... I absolutely LOVE the BAA afternoon tea and always book it for guests who come who are celebrating something special - we have always had good service but are not under the illusion that it's 7 stars..... Here's an interesting piece on 6 and 7 star hotel ratings : 'Six' and 'seven star' hotels - Some members of the hospitality industry have claimed a six or seven-star rating for their operation. As no organization or formal body awards or recognizes any rating over five star deluxe,[7'> such claims are meaningless and predominantly used for advertising purposes. The Burj Al Arab hotel in Dubai is widely described as a "seven-star" property, but the hotel says the label originates from an unnamed British journalist on a press trip and that they neither encourage its use nor do they use it in their advertising.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 11 May 2011 - 21:25
I would say the answer to your question is that you are not doing the interviewing...... that's what is wrong.... There's no way on earth that I would leave my DH to interview a housemaid. At the end of the day it will be you and her who will be together in the house while your DH is working - I would stop interviewing and start as soon as you are here and do the interviewing yourself. go with your gut reaction. Let your helper who is coming over with you speak to the girls - good luck - there are some really good housemaids out there - those who are on 3000 you need ot avoid like the plague and don't waste your time interviewing them.....
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 10 May 2011 - 21:57
Wait - there is very little movement now but loads end of June when the schools finish and all through July. welcome!
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 10 May 2011 - 13:56
there's a paediatric dental centre in Jumeirah - pretty sure they have an orthodontist there http://www.nicolasandasp.com/pdc.html
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 10 May 2011 - 13:20
a couple of friends live there and love it - say they will never leave the green community! I used to go there every day when my kids were at school there and it's a really nice community. the Marriott is handy and is the brits local pub! The Choitrums there is a good one. The roundabout is much better than it was a few years ago but you can still have to queue a little bit to get off although I now go out from the back road and join the 611 Dubai bypass road as I find that easier. I also used to come in on that road when dropping my little girl in at school as it suited me better and that was a clear run in. they are still doing the flyover but when that's ready it will be like the ranches - easy to get in and out. The bungalows are lovely - really spacious, airy and light. Everyone I know who is there or who have been there have been very very happy.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 May 2011 - 21:25
with a 14 year old I'd book Atlantis with a special Gcc residents rate. You;ve got aquaventure and they have a teens club - club Rush. Or I'd do Jumeirah Beach Hote with Wild Wadi
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 May 2011 - 21:02
I'm sure I read somewhere that if you are made redundant you can be released from your lease - you hve to have proof and I think its the Rent committee that can help you with that. I would first explain to the LL to see if he has any flexibility in releasing your friend from her contract - if he won't then it's definitely going into the rent committee with lease document and proof of redundancy - they are really helpful. good luck to your friend.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 May 2011 - 17:54
The KHDA results are out - individual schools will be on the website tomorrow - Wellington was outstanding..... Are you planning on going back to the UK after your time in Dubai - if you are I would stick to BC. Can you not arrange a car share or see if you could come to some arrangement and get your older daughter dropped home that would cut down on your school runs. good luck - it's a tough decision.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 May 2011 - 14:33
Do you mean The Nail Spa? They are building a new place right by Spinneys on the right by the lift and last week it had a poster on saying The Nail Spa opening soon........ so yes - they are opening right there - I can't wait always used The Nail Spa in Ibn Battuta and loved it there. It's nowhere near ready though so might try this Gladys place in the meantime as I've heard really good things about it.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 May 2011 - 14:30
To be fair - I didn't even check whether we needed an appointment - I just checked the address and opening times! Maybe we did need an appointment but no one said anything about that to us when we got there - I think they were pretty surprised I was there too - but they were very nice and ushered us into this very busy room where people were sitting and did the process pretty swiftly! They say ignorance is bliss!
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 May 2011 - 14:27
I love thai food and have had really good meals at these restaurants Mango Tree - Souk Al Bahar Mango Tree Bistro - Mirdif City Centre Munchi's - al Habtoor Grand Pai Thai - Madinat Smiling Bkk - al Wasl plaza
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 May 2011 - 11:23
Thanks ClaireHDP, it came from one of those 'manager' style maids in our street! I thought it was wrong, but hoped someone here had recent expeience of a renewal. Did your maid need to go and make an appointment to renew? No we just turned up there - I was the only non-philippino and my housemaid was taken to the front of the queue - so maybe if you go with her she might get some special treatment! Just seen that the other lady had to wait 4-6 weeks - maybe it's because it's a busy time but put it in asap - it was a simple process. those Auntie housemaids do put the fear of god in people don't they!
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 May 2011 - 11:05
left bank, meat company, mango tree are ones that come to mind. go onto the entertainer website and all the places are listed on their site
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 May 2011 - 11:04
Quite a lot of mouthwashes have alcohol in them and maybe this one does - if it does you won't find it here....
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 May 2011 - 11:01
don't know where that info came from.... I took my housemaid to the philippines consulate near al qusais I think - put the papers in and the renewed passport was ready in a week.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 May 2011 - 09:27
One of the vets might have one they can loan you. Sorry I can't help only have a cat - no dogs!
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 May 2011 - 09:26
They are both readily available in all supermarkets. If you don't see them ask and they will bring them out. I find that the kaffir limes leaves are often hidden. Le Marche sell lemongrass in huge bundles - if you ask they will split them into smaller portions for you. I've never seen fresh bayleaves here - I just use dried ones but don't use them much anyway. My thai friends tell me to wash and dry the kaffir lime leaves and put them in the freezer this works really well as they sell them in pretty big packs.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 May 2011 - 09:13
I completely agree with Jane. It's a power thing - you are going round and round in circles trying to offer them all these delicious scrummy things and they probably find it highly amusing to call out - milk, milk, milk and....when you give in - they've won that game! Don't worry yourself as Jane says. I would absolutely knock the milk on the head - after a couple of days they will realise who is now in charge! Think about it - they don't ask for milk milk milk all day at the nursery - they are eating lots of different foods so it's a power thing at home......and you now need to win! Send them in more food to nursery so you know that 3 days of the week they are stocking up. If they don't eat much when they are at home - I would let it be....you know they eat loads at nursery because they know they can't keep asking for milk! Both of mine are older but my boy still starts the day with a glass of milk and ends the day with a cup of milk before bed time. Don't beat yourself up about it - it's just part of their growing up and needing to find their new boundaries - they are flexing their muscles and seeing how far they can push you - don't give in!!!! good luck!
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 May 2011 - 09:05
I'm 42 and expecting no 3 in July. No's 1 & 2 are 5 and 2.5 respectively. I feel great, love being a mum and really wasn't ready too much before they arrived. I think for that reason - not necessarily being older, but being ready - makes me a better mum than I've have been earlier. Great post Alicia - I'm from the same camp as you - first child at 41 and 2nd at 43 - I completely agree - I most definitely was ready - and I know I've done tons of stuff before I had kids and now I have them I'm loving every minute and can afford to do so much with them having worked hard (and played hard!!!!) before they arrived!
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 May 2011 - 22:41
We recently found out about all this ...You do not need to give them cash for the flight if they didnt take it . But people do thats why maids expect it. If they don t want holiday after 12 months u give them 1 month extra salary as they will be working there holiday. I'm sorry but this is not correct. According to the domestic worker contract which you should have you do need to give them the equivalent in money the flight costs plus a months paid vacation time.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 May 2011 - 19:15
get one of the tailors in satwa to make you one.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 May 2011 - 18:59
It's Libra camps that run the summer camps and they use quite a few of the Taleem schools - I've just checked for you and they are doing them at Greenfields. I dealt with matt before and he was excellent. they've not updated their website yet with the summer camps but contact matt and see what is on offer and your little boy will have ready made friends! http://www.libra-uae.com/
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 May 2011 - 18:53
There is usually a summer camp that is run at Greenfields but open to all kids so it would be a great idea to book him in on that - he'll meet lots of kids - many of whom will be at the school when they go back in September. If I can find the company for you I will post the details and you can contact them. My 2 did a couple of weeks there (they go to a different school) and they loved it.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 May 2011 - 08:44
I used Aldara cream on it and it had amazing results. expensive but readily available here in Dubai and it was reocmmended by a very good dermatologist. You can also take an oral treatment but I'm not sure what that is - we went the Aldara route and it worked very well for my little boy with no scarring.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 May 2011 - 22:32
RS - sent you can take your address off now
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 May 2011 - 19:57
ok, I wentto the market today and was super intimadated I didn't get out of the car. If anyone knows of any other women that go on sat please let me know oooooh I'll go with you - nothing intimidates me!
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 May 2011 - 19:55
I've only ever seen kids struggle with these and at 25 quid you could buy a shop full of blow up armbands! Both mine had the inflatable and we just put less and less air in - plus swimming lessons and they were on their way in months. Seems alot to spend - the kids I've seen with these type try to pull them off and say they hurt. You might get them in one of the sports shops here like Go sport or decathlon at Mirdif city Centre - but you can get great blowup armbands everywhere!
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 May 2011 - 19:49
need your e mail address RS and i can send them to you. Please note though that they have some new laws from last week and I'm hearing that they need to have medicals in their home country and also here - when your housemaid goes to the polo office with the forms I send you - make sure she asks about the new laws...... if there is any new info it would be worth posting on here for everyone to know.... so....send me your e mail and I will send the forms etc to you.....
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 06 May 2011 - 20:10
Dr Nasir at Dermacare is excellent. He has been off sick for a while - not sure he's back yet but worth a call.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 06 May 2011 - 20:04
Ranches wins hands down - it's so easy to get to everywhere from the Ranches. I now see so much more of Dubai than I did when I was on Jumeirah Islands. Used to go to the town centre but the big spinneys at Motor city is now my regular shop and it's fantastic!
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 06 May 2011 - 19:00
As long as you make the tenants completely aware that it a one year non renewable and it states that very clearly on the lease documentation then you should be OK. It's when the owners try to sell the property after one year that they are told by the rent committee that they have to give the tenants 12 months notice of ther intention to sell so they have to move out - or they are free to sell their property with tenants. I agree with CP this will put people off but at least they know in advance and you get tenants who are happy to move out should you wish to sell.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 06 May 2011 - 13:37
Eat and Drink Restaurants are excellent. Call your nearest one to arrange. http://www.eatanddrinkgroup.com/contact.htm
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 06 May 2011 - 11:22
probably too late but Meydan is supposed to be good. bab al shams is lovely and the kids can go onto the grass area - my 2 love it there Beachcombers is nice - great location and my 2 love the kids room Restaurant at the Address in the Marina is really nice and good for kids westin bubblicious brunch is fab - maybe too late but book for next week instead. I would take my mum to the One and Only Royal Mirage for afternoon tea for mothers day - fab! enjoy wherever you end up xx
 
 
UAE Family Law 2026 | Divorce, Custody & Personal Status Guide for Expat Residents

Divorce in Dubai Explained: A 2026 Guide to UAE Family Law, Custody and Your Rights

Best music schools for kids in Dubai | Aureus Academy UAE

The Case for Music: Why Dubai’s Expat Mums Are Choosing Aureus

The Legal Framework of Real Estate in Dubai | Awatif Mohammad Shoqi Advocates & Legal Consultancy

The Legal Framework of Real Estate in Dubai

Top Online Schools in the UAE for Kids and Teenagers: CambriLearn

Why Expat Families in the UAE Are Choosing Online School Over Traditional Classrooms

How to get a divorce in Dubai as an expat resident

Marital Breakdown & Divorce: A Guide for Expat Mums Living in Dubai and Across the UAE

10 Essential Steps to Secure Your Child’s Educational Future

The Education Plan Every Expat Parent Wishes They’d Started Sooner

Kisari Kids - Awareness Parenting Coach Eva Szorad Interview

Getting Kids to Cooperate Without Punishment or Rewards - Aware Parenting with Eva from Kisari.Kids

UAE Emirati Lawyer Awatif Khouri in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

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

Top online British and US High Schools in the UAE: CambriLearn

Back-to-School, Reimagined: How UAE Families Are Choosing a Smarter Start to the School Year

Top 5 UK curriculum online schools for expat families and kids abroad

Top 5 Online Schools For Expat Families in the Middle East

How expats in Germany can get German pension refund

Bye Bye Germany - Hello German Pension Refund?

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

Why Teens Need Real-World Financial Education?

International university transition tips

How to Make the Transition to University Life Easier

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

Bye Bye German Public Service Job - Hello VBL Pension Refund

Tourist SIM cards in Dubai guide

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

World's most expensive cities to live in 2024

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

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

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

What are the signs that your online date is a fraud

8 Warning Signs Your Online Date is a Scammer

10 Expat Experiences You Should Check Off Before Repatriation

10 Expat Experiences You Should Check Off Before Leaving For Good

Best and Worst Countries to Get Started Abroad for New Expats

Best and Worst Countries for New Expats to Get Started Abroad

Under the Mango Tree by Robyn Fok | Expat Books

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

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

(Images: Supplied)

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

Remembering Queen Elizabeth II: A Tribute by UAE Expats

Remembering an Extraordinary Woman: A Tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

10 reasons why expat women love the UAE

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

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

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

Ultimate Babyshop Baby and Toddler Travel Packing List

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

Requirements to apply for a UAE Golden Visa

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

5 Tip for Expats to Survive Long-Distance Relationships

5 Tip for Expats to Survive Long-Distance Relationships

Opening a bank account in the UAE

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

Culture shock in the United Arab Emirates for expats

14 Ways You Will Experience Culture Shock in the UAE

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

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

4 Ways to Network as an Expat

4 Ways to Network as an Expat

8 Expat Problems That Are Just Too Real

8 Expat Problems That Are Just Too Real