Clairehdp | ExpatWoman.com
 

Clairehdp

Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 10 March 2011 - 17:46
West 14th on the Palm is really nice - vouchers in the entertainer. Why not take yourselves off to the Madinat and stroll around there and eat and have some cocktails. How about the new restaurants in Ibn Battuta Gate hotel.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 10 March 2011 - 17:44
We went Jan 2010 and friends with a 4 yr old have been more recently. Kids definitely allowed in the club lounge, though I guess if they disrupted the peace and quiet there would be feedback! The massage is about 15 mins and on a first come first serve basis between 4.30-5.30 daily. It isn't a special deal, they just don't advertise it! ETA The head, neck and shoulder massage in held in the ClubLounge, behind a discreet screen. A male for a male and a female for a female!! edited by Sue R on 10/03/2011 Ooooh not like me to miss out on a free massage!!!!!!!
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 10 March 2011 - 15:21
I've seen a shop in Satwa just up from the mosque and on the same side that sells falconry items.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 10 March 2011 - 15:20
Thanks again for the feedback, I have tried to call the hotel twice to ask about child policy - but all I get is what ma'am? no ma'am I mean yes ma'am All the websites I have looked at state it is open all day for tea/coffee, soft drinks and afternoon tea which is good (standard in most lounges) - like the bit about the massages!! We always stay in a club room and the kids have always been allowed into the lounge. I think that must be a special deal if it includes a massage as it never did before.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 March 2011 - 22:59
I use dubai laundry and have done so for the past 5 years and they have been excellent. they pick up and drop off. I always recommend them. Super service!
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 March 2011 - 22:38
How are the hotel beaches different from public beaches? This is a genuine question as Ive never really been to a hotel beach. Is it just about cleanliness/no prying eyes, or do you get extra facilities? You get all the hotel facilities - sunbeds, towels, waiter service drinks, pool option etc etc you really can't compare!
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 March 2011 - 21:20
What about Mamzar beach park? 5AED per person or 30AED per car. Just avoid Friday afternoons as very busy. She's looking at hotel beaches though.....
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 March 2011 - 21:15
hilton and Sheraton are both cheaper than most and are pretty good for the price.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 March 2011 - 21:14
I would highly recommend Nicky at Frosted. the cakes are not only delicious but look amazing too and Nicky and Jenn have produced some hysterical adult cakes over the years! I've seen a few and they're brilliant! contact Nicky on 050 105 8523 http://www.frosted.me.uk/
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 March 2011 - 21:07
I posted earlier and my post has gone! Good to see that others have put some of the ones I recommended. Zheng He's is lovely Pai Thai on the terrace on the water is one of my favourites Nobu at Atlantis I agree with the op that Shimmers on the beach is gorgeous location - the food used to be lovely but they have changed their menu so I would agree - just go there for drinks before going to a different restaurant. I love the Grand Grill at the Habtoor Grand - never been disappointed Ruths Chris steak house at the Monarch is also super Petite Maison is being raved about I really like Caramel at DIFC too
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 March 2011 - 20:09
West 14th is really nice on the Palm - lovely location - superb service and fab food. vouchers in entertainer.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 March 2011 - 20:07
Booked at Desert Palm via Expedia, fabulous rate! Thank you for the advice. Cannot wait! If you've got a little one Desert Palm might not be the best choice. Not really set up for kids and if the wind is blowing the wrong way it can be a bit hummy from the rubbish dump up the road.....If you can cancel with no penalty I'd highly recommend Le Meridien Al Aqah in Fujeirah or the Hilton Resort and Spa in RAK - when you phone ask for resident rates not hotelier rates! My kids love Le Meridien - the kids club is lovely - they have super staff in there. They even have rubber ducks inthe bathrooms for the kids! And there's now a little petting zoo.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 March 2011 - 20:00
Thank you ladies but they quoted me 2,400dhs per night, hoteliers rate, not even including breakfast!!! What?????? we were there a couple of weeks ago and paid 480 dhs a night for 4 of us bed and breakfast......!!!!!
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 March 2011 - 19:53
anyone got any info on the roads? I've been hearing all roads are blocked around tecom and JLT. don't have a radio in the house so can't listen to any updates. Just trying to guide Mr Freckles home so I can eventually eat Why don't you have the radio playing live on your computer. I listen to Dubai 92 Fm and you can get that live on line so as i'm typing this to you I have the radio playing in the background and can listen to the traffic updates and news....... http://dubai92.com/ click on the play arrow by listen live now
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 20:36
My 2 did Playball at that age and LOVED it.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 20:35
Does anyone know if there are any kids rugby clubs closer than the 7's ground? I'm not sure what age group they do start with but Arabian Knights trains in Arabian Ranches. Oops sorry just saw this!
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 20:35
My DD has just started gymnastics and is absolutely loving it! It is really fun and is very good for strength, agility, confidence etc. It is an hour long mixed class. www.dubai-gymnastics.com If you are interested, register then call them as they are a bit slow getting back to you. An hour long class for a 3-4 year old....that sounds hard..... are there little ones doing as long as that.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 20:34
Does anyone know if there are any kids rugby clubs closer than the 7's ground? Arabian Knights on a Sat at Jess AR
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 20:30
I would add Victory Heights to the list as that's pretty close by and the Green community at Motor City which is lovely - emirates hills and the rest of SW llist are - as she says are a pretty long drive and, having done it from Jumeirah Islands and moved to Arabian Ranches I would say stay as close to the school as you can. <em>edited by Clairehdp on 08/03/2011</em>
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 20:26
Is the Big Bus back in the Family Book again? I hope so - I always like to send my visitors off on it for the day and get some peace. LOL. No it's not this year - I was horrified but my guests still went and when I called they were doing a special but nowhere near as good as the voucher offer...... it was linked to paying with a specific credit card but better than full price!
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 19:37
You'd love it. If I lived in Dubai (we're still working on moving there) I'd totally be up for it! And mmmmmmm Lebanese ....Now THOSE people know how to cook. Ooooh get over here soon then Slummy Mummy!
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 19:35
Splash n bounce hire out super tables and chairs for a reasonable amount - with table settings or without http://www.splashnbounce.com/services.html
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 19:14
We use it at least once a week for something...... If you have visitors coming it really helps keep the costs down.... We have the family one and always get the fine dining one too....
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 19:13
just interested......what do SA ladies do with bread dough???? is it a SA secret?????? do share!
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 18:55
Had some friends who enjoyed the Palm one but the Royal Mirage one on the terrace is beautiful.... I think they prefer you to book if possible rather than show up but no doubt will cater for either. I think it is one of my favourite places here.... Yep I agree - it's absolutely gorgeous
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 18:54
I tried the One and Only, but they don't do afternoon tea any more, I believe.. Really? That's a shame was this the One and Only on the Palm or the Royal Mirage. The Royal Mirage one as always fab..... I'm afraid I can't remember - I read in Time Out it was great and good value for money and called to book, but got told no - maybe I misunderstood and it was just that day, but I got the distinct impression they'd stopped completely. Clearly, wrongly, as emlsnre says! Did they mean no you can't book you just turn up - only asking cos I've never booked.....
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 18:34
I tried the One and Only, but they don't do afternoon tea any more, I believe.. Really? That's a shame was this the One and Only on the Palm or the Royal Mirage. The Royal Mirage one as always fab..... I'm afraid I can't remember - I read in Time Out it was great and good value for money and called to book, but got told no - maybe I misunderstood and it was just that day, but I got the distinct impression they'd stopped completely. Clearly, wrongly, as emlsnre says! i just called them both PALM AND ROYAL MIRAGE WORKING . the price is 90aed and 120aed/p. which one is better??? Not been to the new Palm one but the Royal Mirage is a beautiful hotel and their afternoon tea is stunning. If it was me I'd go for royal mirage. Perhaps go to the new one and only on the palm for cocktails one evening
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 16:29
yawn. done all this a billion times Yeah but the OP is new to Dubai so wants to give her Mum and Auntie a good time here...... another thing I would do with them is to drive out to Bab Al Shams for sunset and have some drinks on the roof terrace.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 16:23
I tried the One and Only, but they don't do afternoon tea any more, I believe.. Really? That's a shame was this the One and Only on the Palm or the Royal Mirage. The Royal Mirage one as always fab.....
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 16:23
Jumeirah Mosque tour is always really interesting. Stroll around the gold souk and the spice souk
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 March 2011 - 16:22
Could you please tell me where can I buy THE ENTERTAINER BOOK??? Dubai Mall?? thansk! You can buy it in most book shops/spinneys/carrefour/geant etc - the family book would probably be the best one for you just now Do you know the price of this Entert. B00k??? I found on the internet 350AED??? Thank you Yes that's the right price. You can order on line and they will deliver to you direct.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 18:56
that's awful...... go back and speak to the guard as they log in all the vehicles that come in. If you have a time line you should be able to track down which gardening company did that....... the guard should be able to help you. tomorrow I would go down to the central security office it's by Al Mahra and lodge a formal complaint. Get them to speak to all the gardening companies that come into your development. They may well magically appear tomorrow after someone gets a flea in their ear......it could be a simple mistake of picking up from the wrong villa too....... Why do all that when you can just call the police and they will do it for you? Well - call me soft but it could have been a genuine mistake and it won't take long for the security guard to track them down.....they get returned and everyone's happy. Not great to have the police on your first night in the villa.....
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 18:54
Not a clue and now that they are doing a pregnancy test as part of the medical it wont be longer than 30 days surely! thing is.....if you've had it done and it's fine why don't you just go ahead and complete her residency process?
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 18:52
that's awful...... go back and speak to the guard as they log in all the vehicles that come in. If you have a time line you should be able to track down which gardening company did that....... the guard should be able to help you. tomorrow I would go down to the central security office it's by Al Mahra and lodge a formal complaint. Get them to speak to all the gardening companies that come into your development. They may well magically appear tomorrow after someone gets a flea in their ear......it could be a simple mistake of picking up from the wrong villa too.......
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 12:41
Hi can anyone recommend a good hairdresser.Badly need my roots done hair is nowmore brown than blonde.Ideally looking for somewhere either in Arabian Ranches or Motor city thanks Would not recommend the salon in Arabian Ranches. The Beautylab in Motor City does hair - I don't go back there as I have had 2 nasty experiences with mani/pedi in there and I've never used them myself for hair as I'm very happy with Juan Salon in Jumeirah Lake Towers however a couple of friends use the hairdresser there and their hair always looks lovely. there are a couple of freelance ladies who work out of arabian ranches - someone will probably post their details on here for you or use the search button above and see if you can find them.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 10:33
are they still accepting the vouchers as the hotel has changed hands?
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 10:32
The other night, we were worried as dorter was suffering from abdominal pain (again, but one day it *will* be appendicitis and that'll be the day we've not bothered to seek medical advice) so we went off to Jebel Ali Hospital, which has an emergency dept, I think. By the time we got there, the panadol I'd given her had taken effect and she was asleep, so we went home, so I'm afraid I can't comment on their efficaciousness (though the pharmacy was open and we got more paracetomol as we'd run out), but I just thought I'd mention it for those to the west of the city.. Actually, is it west or south? Anyway, towards Abu Dhabi.. edited by simpleasabc on 06/03/2011 I've never heard anything good about Jebel Ali Hospital - I'd use Rashid, al Wasl or City as my preferred hospital. We used to live on Jumeirah Islands and our little boy had a couple of asthma attacks - I'd dash down SZR to Cedars Hospital in Jebel Ali as they were excellent for a nebuliser as this is what he needed and it was easy to get to and always open. I had a very poorly little girl last month who had a roaring temperature with uncontrollable sickness - she couldn't even keep water down so I took her on a friends recommendation to City Hospital as it was a pretty easy run down Emirates Road and they were absolutely superb. We were seen immediately - admitted and cared for beautifully - that's my choice for emergency care but......if we have any major trauma I would go for Rashid as they seem to be the only hospital really set up for major trauma here.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 10:10
Most of the UK daily papers have a money section that will give you up to date info on the best rate mortgages - have a search around and you'll come up with the best one for your needs: http://www.lcplc.co.uk/thirdparties/thisismoney/mortgages/
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 10:00
summer here is hot, humid and uncomfortable (not to mention boring) but if you are prepared for it then it isn't that bad. there aré plenty of indoor play areas to take your 5 year old. I also have a 5 year old girl and a two year old boy and although it can be a bit frustrating when the temperature rises, I still manage to find things to do with them. Last summer I even took their bikes etc into Ibn mall and let them bike around the mall. The mall was really quiet and the security guards didn't raise an eyebrow. Swimming after about 4 pm is a great release and then you can shower them off, take them home, feed them and stick them in bed! The real hard part is during Ramadan but its only 4 weeks and if you have a good circle of friends who you can annoy for the afternoon then you're laughing! I think your last paragraph sums it up though - if you hve a good circle of friends here then the summer and Ramadan is not so difficult - if you've just arrived and are nobby no mates (as we all were at some stage) then it's a very very different story and a pretty difficult time - especially with little ones. If you come in april you will have some friends who you can do playdates with by then and the summer can be like Freckles says.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 09:09
We moved over in the summer and boy was it hot! No one can prepare you for the heat and the humidity. If I had my time again and was offered the choice of moving in april or in July I would most definitely go for April. You have time to make some friends and you can then spend time during the summer on playdates at each others houses. If you come in the summer you will have to be out and about getting your home set up and I'd far rather do that in the sunny month of april rather than the oppressive heat of July/August. Another huge plus for arriving in April is that you will have a much better chance of a year 1 place in a good school. As others have said - more and more people do stay on in the summer and there are lots of things to do in Dubai now compared with say 10 years ago but......with little ones - I would really push for the April set up - you will then become acclimatised to the gradual increase in the heat and by July/August it probably won't feel so awful. Arriving in the summer and straight into Ramadan and shortened government office hours will make your visa processes and all the necessary setting up procedures just that little bit more challenging than they already are!!!!! Good luck!
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 March 2011 - 08:53
Friends have just bought some really lovely chairs, table and sofas for the garden from Ikea - they're really nice. Also a good place to check out is in Dragonmart.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 06 March 2011 - 18:57
Eat and Drink do great shwarmas - there's one in Al Barsha
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 06 March 2011 - 18:48
Go to a Ladies queue and get served over the long queues of men!........
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 06 March 2011 - 16:54
I have to disagree with some of what has been said. I know quite a few families who are leaving soon because of recent redundancies. Heard of 2 more redundancies last week too so it's still happening. Quite a few posters on here in the last couple of weeks have said they are having to leave due to now jobs. The hotels were busy the last couple of weeks but that's because it was half term holidays but many are now not busy and there are great deals to be had. Can't comment about office space because we have not had to look. I was driving to school this morning and was wondering where everyone was on the roads - it was so quiet I wondered if I'd got my days mixed up!!!!!!!...... I think it's got a long way to go before it's back on track.....just my view though....
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 06 March 2011 - 12:43
Ooooooh can of worms!!!!! Seems odd that your licence is valid until you are 70 and yet your photo card is only valid for 10 years - it was something I had no idea about......
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 06 March 2011 - 12:19
What happens if the period when you are to register your car comes during the time when you are out of the country? Would you be fined or is there some grace period? I was thinking of getting the car registered before leaving but just can't seem to find time even though the centre is very near to where I stay. xx Pay for VIP not that much more if I remember and you don't even get out of the car! You drive up - straight to the window pass over your documents and money and it's done - drive off all reregistered.....
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 06 March 2011 - 11:54
Welcome back!
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 06 March 2011 - 11:53
Have a route around Daiso. I got the girls at the party lovely flower garlands which they all loved and I got the boys wooden segmented snakes from there. I also put a football design inflatable beach ball in the boys packs and a flowery designed inflatable beach ball in the girls packs.
Clairehdp
2958
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 06 March 2011 - 11:47
Yes - the thai, the indian and the beach bar at Le meridien are in the book. If you go onto the entertainer website you can see all the vouchers that are in each book. hth
 
 
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