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CouchPotato

CouchPotato
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 29 August 2015 - 07:59
It actually seems like it's getting busier on EW, lots of newbies with lots of questions. Hopefully they all stick around for TNTs and popcorn
CouchPotato
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 29 August 2015 - 07:57
SingleMum is it possible for you to relocate further out (Ajman) for cheaper rent & school? Anything that will mean you are not borrowing, which is going to get you into a worse situation. Does your son speak any arabic as some of the local schools are free but taught in arabic. Have you spoken to your boss and seen if there is any chance of promotion/pay rise? Take care.
CouchPotato
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 27 August 2015 - 16:15
Unless they are very poor at swimming, do they need extra lessons? As school will offer swimming as part of the curriculum and most school lessons are pretty good. As Slivstet as said, just bundle their bikes in the car and if you don't have outdoor space take them to the beach or the Nad Al Sheba cycling track or for a swim to some of the public pools (Mamzar, Mushrif Park) or the indoor Shk Hamdan Swimming Centre where it's less than 20 AED for a swim.
CouchPotato
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 27 August 2015 - 16:12
Innon, in 6 very short weeks you'll absolutely love Dubai. You'll be outdoors, barbecuing, off road in the desert, camping, eating on your balcony or in your garden every evening, picnics on the beach & your social calendar will mean you are so busy every weekend you won't have time to see the cranes! You've arrived in the worst possible month, things can only get better. Next summer you'll be glad of the malls for some respite and a movie - for now take the next few weeks to get your bearings driving around and figuring out how to get to some of the green spaces the previous posters have mentioned - so you are all set for the cooler weather. Check out dubaicalendar.ae for some fun things to do that won't break the bank (concerts etc) and remember that dubai caters to the top salaried scale and the bottom too, there are SOOO many delicious restaurants where you can come out with change from 50 AED for 2 - just get out and about and find them! Things can only get better now! :)
CouchPotato
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 26 August 2015 - 20:04
how was it, Umm Salah? What did you buy? :gift:
CouchPotato
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 26 August 2015 - 19:51
Alternatively you could just buy an aloe vera plant and squeeze out the bits and mix it with water which would save you a lot of money! :P I'm on a "2" day but have opened the wine! Help! Does liquid count? :thinking: :biggrin:
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 26 August 2015 - 08:40
You could use the toilets in one of the restaurants (though it wouldn't be as clean as you would like it to be!)
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 26 August 2015 - 08:38
Sorry you asked about timings, most shops close between 1.30 and 4.30pm
CouchPotato
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 26 August 2015 - 08:34
Ooooh exciting!!! Well, firstly, one thing to remember about Satwa is that it is always about 5 degrees hotter than wherever you are right now. So wear something cool but which will also cover you as it is more conservative than a mall etc. you can get, and do/fix, [i'>anything[/i'> in Satwa. It's all there. It's not walking distance to a metro station, however there is a bus station there - you can metro to DIFC, Emirates Towers or Jaffiliya, and get a cab from there (maybe a 10 AED journey) or bus from there as well. Shops are a little muddled, though the fabric ones are mostly grouped together but you'll also see lots of mobile phone shops, hardware shops, some great "Gift City" type shops where there are floors and floors of cheap items from shoes to clothes to toys, kitchen stuff etc. Satwa is quite a large area so be prepared to spend a good few hours wandering around. Don't forget to stop for a paratha/chai in one of the street cafes - they can look a bit grim but they taste amazing and it's part of the fun. have a great day. :)
CouchPotato
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 26 August 2015 - 08:04
Not unless they have a license which is probably unlikely! Related news articles: http://www.emirates247.com/business/dh5-000-fine-for-renting-out-flats-illegally-2015-03-30-1.585785 http://www.thenational.ae/uae/tourism/legal-grey-area-of-residents-subletting-dubai-homes-on-airbnb
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 26 August 2015 - 07:46
Ibn Batutta is a good bet as you have lots of stores in there like HomesRUs, Max and Daiso all of which offer lots of good value things like that. Have fun :)
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 26 August 2015 - 07:44
AirB&B is not legal in Dubai. There are loads of budget hotels which offer rates from AED 250-300 per night, Holiday Inn Express, Premier Inn, Ibis, etc. Most of the time they include breakfast too.
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 25 August 2015 - 18:47
Loving the pretend pizzas!!! :cool:
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 25 August 2015 - 18:45
Poor dog!! We had a neighbour like this once - it was like the owners couldn't hear it??!
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 25 August 2015 - 18:30
<taps chin and ponders>
CouchPotato
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 25 August 2015 - 18:28
oooooh school dinners yum. Sponge & custard. YUM! I also don't agree with having curry, there will be plenty of that from the Indian/Pakistani team members and it's not what people who haven't visited Britain would associate with Britain. What about big Cornish Pasties with different fillings so you could do like 6 big ones just to be reheated. And then scones/clotted cream/jam. YUM
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 25 August 2015 - 18:24
I would definitely speak to the neighbour, they may not be aware. I've been unusually home today and mine keeps going outside and barking at trees (as you do) and I was hoping he doesn't normally do this (are you my neighbour lol). They may not be aware. It doesn't have to be a confrontational conversation, if you haven't met before you can even take them some biscuits as a hello and then it doesn't seem so bad! Good luck!
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 25 August 2015 - 14:27
This is a common problem for those nationalities who don't receive visa on arrival, and especially if you have had your UAE visa for less than 6 months, or it expires in less than 6 months. You can also try applying to the Qatari Consulate here in Dubai by obtaining an invitation letter and some supporting paperwork from your company on both sides.
CouchPotato
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 24 August 2015 - 18:10
Chips & Cheese or Chips & Gravy - :P You could do three big pies - a chicken pie, a veg pie, and a steak pie - just heat them up in the micro. I'm saying three as guessing with 35 people in a mixed office you'll have a mix of religions and what they can eat. Should be relatively cheap and easy to make. :)
CouchPotato
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 24 August 2015 - 18:07
I don't think you need to feel like a cheapskate. Anyway those few days it will be very busy so better to wait until afterwards. :)
CouchPotato
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 24 August 2015 - 17:21
The first day (Arafat Day) is not normally a holiday for us but I think the night before that is dry. So that is expected (I think) to be on 22nd so the dry night would be 21st. I think we will be off on 23rd and 24th. Like any holiday here though, this will not be confirmed until usually the week before, so to be safe it may be better to plan your party well away from these dates. :)
CouchPotato
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 24 August 2015 - 14:47
What about this one and have your little one in the same nursery so you can see him/her all day :) http://www.expatwoman.com/dubai/jobsdetail.aspx?pid=1411&cid=jobs&jbid=7217
CouchPotato
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 24 August 2015 - 14:19
I'd be delighted if your MIL is ignoring you as she sounds horrific! It sounds like going back to work is away to get away from MIL and encourage DH to move out as you'll have more funds. Maybe you could get a part time job to appease everyone including your LO who will probably enjoy some socialising at nursery. There are some very good cheaper ones as well. Have you had a look at the EW jobs page?
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 24 August 2015 - 14:16
In the absence of any current drama we have to [strike'>make[/strike'> think up some from the past. Come on, surely someone's maid has been up to no good???!!!
CouchPotato
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 24 August 2015 - 13:47
personally although your MIL and SIL sound difficult and toxic, I think your biggest problem is that your DH as you say keeps delaying moving out and you are not even sure this will happen next time. It must feel like you are trapped. Would your MIL look after your little one for a few hours a day? How old is your baby? What sort of work could you do?
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 24 August 2015 - 13:16
There was once a young maid, who lived by the sea In Jumeirah no less, she was quite lucky. One day her jobs were done, her kitchen sink scrubbed with Madam on holiday, she made for the hot tub But what would she wear, she thought, woe is me! But suddenly remembered Madam's new sparkly bikini With a dash she made for the drawer she knew held the treasure and put it on. It fit! Oh the pleasure With some sparkly bits hanging down from all angles DM pranced around, enjoying the spangles With bubble bath at the ready, the hot tub party began As she called up her mates to come round and put on Madam's fake tan With the party in full swing, bikinis ahoy the hot tub bubbling, they all forgot to be coy Taking snaps here and there, posing with pouts It wasn't long til they heard "put it on FB!!" shouts So without much ado, they did the pictures upload of the maids in the hot tub in Madam's abode And Madam, far away, across the sea Decided to log in to FB, merrily What shock did she get, to see her dear maid in her spangly bikini in a hot tub, Madam thought - is this why she is paid? To sit in the bubbles instead of tidy a room? What fool am I, I am really a loon Dear Madam posted on EW for advice What should I do, be mean or be nice? And for once, EW was unanimous, be mean this time! Has this maid lost all sense in her mind? The bikini was the step too much And so dear ladies, be wary of such While away, your DM may be having the life of Reilly and when you come back be hard at work scrubbing (quietly smiley). *True story from EW archives
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 24 August 2015 - 12:46
Hi Shzee There is very little you can do without your DH agreeing to find a place for just the four of you. What is the first step to making this happen? Do you think he actually wants to, is it guilt/pressure that is stopping him doing this, or does he actually like being home with all of you? PS, If I were you, in the short term - why not get a job? It will a) contribute to family income so you are able to get your own place sooner and b) give you new friends/confidence etc.
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 24 August 2015 - 12:32
Knowledge Village is supposed to only be for Tecom sponsored staff although they do take ladies outwith this on most occasions. The full list of centres & timings is here, there are plenty more other than Muhaisnah. https://www.dha.gov.ae/EN/ServiceCatalogue/eServices/MedicalFitness/Pages/MedicalFitnessCenters.aspx
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 24 August 2015 - 12:24
I think there's a move generally towards all things a bit bigger. The fast food revolution is really hitting Europe now the way it did America before and clothes just seem to be getting bigger but vanity sizing means we are fooled into thinking we are 'still a size x' when if you compared that size to the same size 15 years ago there would be a huge difference. There's much more acceptance of bigger sizes now and people are encouraged to embrace the curves etc. There's nothing wrong with being happy with the way you are and embracing your curves, and good on her for accepting that she is happy with her body but I think it's all part of the junk food/fast food/unhealthy revolution that is making us all just bigger and the social movement that is going along with it to just accept it.
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 24 August 2015 - 12:07
Sorry to hear of your loss Wicked x
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 24 August 2015 - 07:04
Monday 24 Aug: Kg lost this week: 1kg Overall since start: 1kg Still to lose: 6kg
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 24 August 2015 - 06:54
Welcome to Dubai! All the medical fitness centres are shown here with timings www.dohms.gov.ae
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 24 August 2015 - 06:53
It's weigh in day! (gulp) Beebers I'm doing 5&2, logging things on myfitnesspal and just trying to cut out rubbish/move more.
CouchPotato
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 24 August 2015 - 06:26
Meanwhile, over on another social media site there is a maid drama involving the wrong coloured lids being put on felt tip pens! That is [i'>brilliant! [/i'> We must hear more about this! Oopsie - sorry. :cry:
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 23 August 2015 - 18:39
Hello! How have you settled in? Is it all cool and fresh and bracing? [strike'>not jealous at all[/strike'>
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 23 August 2015 - 18:18
Surely, somebody, somewhere, must have some.
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 23 August 2015 - 17:41
Also, not every working woman is a mum/wife, so it shouldn't be assumed that ladies want to spend all their free time with their families. :)
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 22 August 2015 - 14:26
I was on the phone when I read that and had to have some sort of coughing fit to cover up the giggles... :lol:
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 20 August 2015 - 19:37
I'll do it because you'll put it in another place :-P
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 19 August 2015 - 18:06
Hi Diamante There needs to be an inviting company in KSA that will apply to the MOFA in KSA for the visa and have it pre-approved. You receive this letter by email and then go to a typing centre to do a KSA visa appointment for you at Wafi. Go to the VFS Visa centre and finalise the procedure and receive your passport back by courier. You will need the TL of the Dubai company, letter from Dubai sponsor, TL of KSA etc. All the usual docs! however.... 1. Depends how well known etc the company in KSA is 2. Depends on your age, if you are married etc. HTH.
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 19 August 2015 - 17:52
Mashaweer would also be good.
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 18 August 2015 - 19:09
I also like M&S and www.nextdirect.ae is brilliant, delivery in 4 days.
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 18 August 2015 - 19:07
Would anyone also be interested in having a virtual weekly weigh in on EW? I need to be [strike'>forced[/strike'> motivated by having to do this once a week. We used to do this a number of years ago and there were a group of us who did it once a week and it was quite motivating [strike'>not really still ate cake[/strike'>
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 18 August 2015 - 19:05
Dr Madhu is great with all ages even very young children.
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 18 August 2015 - 19:03
Hi GC Mabrook on your garden. Have you tried Dragonmart? There's also a place inside Mazaya Centre (as well as checking out HomesRUs) there is a place that does nice rattan furniture - but I'm not sure of the prices.
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 18 August 2015 - 19:01
Hi, no it's not legal (and also quite risky, you wouldn't want someone working illegally ferrying your children around) - but there are companies such as www.careem.com who offer this sort of service complete with car seats. You can also track them online to check their location. HTH
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 17 August 2015 - 17:01
Oh dear loo-user, may I please have a moan Can't you for five minutes put down your phone Multi tasking is one thing, and one which impresses however how do you undo your belt, or your dresses? With one hand on your phone and the other untieing Aren't you taking this tasking too far? <sighing> And if you do that thing with the phone stuck under your ear Aren't you concerned what the other party may hear? With a tinkle and splash or a flush or a plop Your listener must think PLEASE! Just STOP! Just concentrate on the task at hand. And talking of hands, not washing is banned! Oh dear user, the rules are few but please pay attention. You are making me spew. :P
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 17 August 2015 - 16:56
Where do you have to get to? There's always a way round the back of somewhere!
CouchPotato
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 16 August 2015 - 17:10
Whilst you are sitting on the Loo Here's a list of what NOT to do Don't talk on your phone or sing any songs It's not polite and really quite wrong If you must talk, wait til you flush The sound of chatting is making me blush
CouchPotato
1010
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 16 August 2015 - 16:54
Hurrah, a thread that is not about Doctors!!! Littleone you could have some fun with this..........! Let's design posters for the back of the phone booth door!! <rushing to get a black marker pen> <thinking of catchy slogans>
 
 
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