crystalsindubai | ExpatWoman.com
 

crystalsindubai

crystalsindubai
713
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EW GURU
Latest post on 21 August 2011 - 11:01
We live in 2bd 3 bathroom in Dubai Marina. Our water/power charges are around AED260 a month. Yours does seem very high. May be worth checking it. HTH. But you surely have separate chiller charges as well that would account for your a/c? OP's a/c seems to be runing via electricity in which case I would consider these charges acceptable. My apologies ladies.... didn't follow from the beginning! <em>edited by crystalsindubai on 21/08/2011</em>
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 21 August 2011 - 10:57
Hi Pepito, does your a/c runs via electricity (as opposed to chillers in the new areas)? Also, do check if there is a 5% Government housing fee included in your bill. Surely, the bill for a 3 br apt would be higher!
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 20 August 2011 - 13:39
To my (somewhat dated) information, there are two kind of health cards: one that is issued by the UAE Federal Ministry of Health and one by the (local) Ministry of Health. The card issued at the local MoH is much more useful. Worthwhile investigating...
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 August 2011 - 15:28
Try 050-185 6763; this is Joseph's no who works with Affordable Quality Cleaners.
crystalsindubai
713
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EW GURU
Latest post on 18 August 2011 - 07:54
Pashminas should ideally have only about 20% or less silk. Prices at Karama, depending on quality, from AED 50. Bargaining is the key word.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 August 2011 - 07:44
Hi moo moo & der, There are two places to make the visa run: Hatta (on the road to Muscat) and the RAK border post that leads you to the Musandam/Khasab (up the coastal road, approx 1 hr). It is only at the RAK border that you can walk across; the Hatta border crossing surely is to far apart from the Omani stations.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 August 2011 - 00:21
Hi Nadia, one does not have to stay in the Oman. One is required to 1. Obtain the exit stamp at the UAE border post, 2. "enter" Oman's immigration building at the border (to have your passport stamped) and then 3. can immediately return to Dubai's border post to have your new entry stamp. Cost per person: AED 200 (to Oman's Immigration). [i'>[b'>This applies to persons with nationalities that do not require visas to be issued prior to arrival.[/b'>[/i'> This visa run can be made as often as desired. The drive is approximately 1 hr 15 minutes to the border. No idea about the cost for car & driver. If you do decide to make a weekend of it, the next larger place is Sohar where you could find the Sohar Beach Hotel.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 August 2011 - 15:35
Very easy process, we breezed in and out within the hour, last Thursday. One note, however, that was not mentioned before: whilst no fees are to be paid at the UAE border(*), the Oman visa does cost AED 200 per person. (*) that is if the initial visa duration has not elapsed... in which case there would be a fee (fine) of AED 100 per day. <em>edited by crystalsindubai on 17/08/2011</em>
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 August 2011 - 15:33
Very easy process, we breezed in and out within the hour, last Thursday. One note, however, that was not mentioned before: whilst no fees are to be paid at the UAE border, the Oman visa does cost AED 200 per person.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 August 2011 - 14:53
On fluoride, please google "Fluoride Poisoning": YouTube: - Fluoride Poisoning & Dangers - Toothpaste Warning - Fluoride is Toxic Waste (LITERALLY) - and hundreds more.... Check www.fluoridealarm.org All very official, goose!!! edited by crystalsindubai on 17/08/2011 <em>edited by crystalsindubai on 17/08/2011</em>
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 August 2011 - 14:22
@ goose: No quackery here ... go and do your research. And, btw, why do you think that authorities in many places now REMOVE the fluoride again from their drinking water systems?
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 August 2011 - 09:43
Fluoride is a waste product of aluminum and has been proven to be harmful. Both in water and toothpaste I insist on fluoride-free products.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 August 2011 - 09:30
@dodo & fatzak: I visited Rera personally. Their reps are very helpful and I was actually shown their (still 2010) version on the screen. 2011 is yet "under process". Online, google Rera Rental Index, go to "Rera" (disregard the "index" entries). Just below the "Ahlan wa Sahlan" box there is the "Rent Calculator" - easy to use depending on your area... Good luck!
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 16 August 2011 - 21:30
Sure makes sense if you live in "the new Dubai" areas to shop at MoE, etc. Jumeirah Center was actually the very first shopping center/mall (except for the Al Ghurair Center in Deira) for us Jumeirah Janes at a time when Magrudy was the one and only bookstore in town and Gerard's cafe was unmatched - brought in the very first croissants! Was real excitement in those early years... <em>edited by crystalsindubai on 16/08/2011</em>
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 16 August 2011 - 20:27
Rubbing on of crushed garlic is also said to help. edited by crystalsindubai on 16/08/2011 <em>edited by crystalsindubai on 16/08/2011</em>
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 16 August 2011 - 20:10
A renewal fee of AED 1000 is totally unreasonable; a tenant pays a one-time agency commissing of 5% of the contract value at the beginning of the lease. Please check your contract if this has been agreed upon at the beginning, and only so if the renewal of contract is handled by an agent - not through the landlord him/herself. Once renewed, you have a one-year contract. If landlord wants to sell and "get you out" for the new owner, then they need to have a document signed by you that you agree to do so (within this contract period). If you are asked to sign such a document, then you obviously will pay on a month-to-month basis, but still require at least 3 months of notice to enable you to find a suitable replacement.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 16 August 2011 - 19:46
@bornconfused: I can't believe for one moment OP would have written this post if she had considered keeping any money wrongfully! <em>edited by crystalsindubai on 16/08/2011</em>
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 16 August 2011 - 19:42
@fairycakeyumm: you must then be a "relatiave" newbie... these small malls used to be our mainstay in earlier days...
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 16 August 2011 - 19:26
First of all, a 3-months notice period towards the end of your contract applies for any change in conditions. Also, do consult the a Rera online index which allows you to check the applicable rents in your area. This is binding to the landlord.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 16 August 2011 - 10:15
Hi Buy me a Pony, was considering if this was a suitable venue for selling my Lladro collection and perhaps some crystal vases and candle holders,. I noticed via another thread that you were looking for household items - does that extend to home decor? <em>edited by crystalsindubai on 16/08/2011</em>
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 15 August 2011 - 12:16
Thanks, Buy me a Pony... will investigate! Have you decided to visit? If so, and if I participate, how do I recognize you?
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 15 August 2011 - 09:40
A few questions to CRx2: 1. do you have any contacts for the organizers? 2. Gate 4 is the closest to the event? 3. Which time does it start? 4. Is it purely cheap fleamarket style, or also more valuable goods? Would love to participate, if suitable... Thanks for your info.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 August 2011 - 22:56
There is an outlet in the Gold Souq Building in Deira (Swiss Gold?) that deals in bullions. Perhaps they could provide information on coin dealers?
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 August 2011 - 20:00
Depending on the coin, you don't only have the gold value - Kruger Rand, for instance, and many others. It is worth looking for a coin specialist.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 August 2011 - 19:16
Seconding Al Liali - they have given my and some clients super service in the past, both in design and workmanship.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 August 2011 - 09:37
The Barracuda in Umm Al Quwain offers beach villas, as does the Majed Beach Resort in RAK. Also, a bit more upmarket is the Hamra Fort Hotel and The Cove - both renting villas under their management.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 August 2011 - 15:35
Super service given at Saba Computers in the Al Ain Plaza (Computer Plaza) in Bur Dubai, next to the Ramada Hotel & Spinneys. They are on the first floor, rather in the back, tel. 355 3525. Manager's name is Husam Obaid, and he's been a life-saver...
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 August 2011 - 19:37
Tavola, perhaps? They usually have a good variety of glasses. <em>edited by crystalsindubai on 11/08/2011</em>
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 August 2011 - 19:28
Everything was handled by my (now ex)-sponsor and/or is PRO. As I never had to handle anything to do with legalities am afraid I can't help any further here...
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 August 2011 - 18:38
Welcome to Dubai and enjoy yourself!
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 August 2011 - 18:21
Just recently cancelled a sole proprietorship trade licence (with three categories & 1 visa). Cancellation fees including visa & labour card cost just under AED 4k. Can you ask for a receipt / statement? Good luck!
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 August 2011 - 17:27
Ladies, I am really hungry now after reading alll those scrumptuous recipes...
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 August 2011 - 09:34
I wouldn't go all the way to Atlantis! When you exit the tunnel your turn to Atlantis would be right (i.e. Crescent east) but to get to the Zabeel Saray you should take the Crescent west direction (which takes you straight away over a flyover). It's fairly way down towards the end of the crescent. Have a lovely dinner! It's a magical place...
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 August 2011 - 21:38
@ FFK: If the employee is entitled in his contract to family accommodation, surely no additional, non-family persons can be accommodated in the same property. In addition, officially there is a one-house one-family policy. @ Sue R: Yes, it is possible here - according to my personal experience. Additional benefit: yes, the 5% housing fee would also be carried by the company, as well as (in my earlier case) the utility bills. <em>edited by crystalsindubai on 10/08/2011</em>
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 August 2011 - 19:17
Hi, can't answer your questions. I would like, however, to point you towards a couple of threads on this forum concerning rather expensive problems some tenants at the Jumeirah Triangle have with Dewa/utility bills.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 August 2011 - 16:24
If the tenancy is held by a company, it is usually hassle-free for the tenant as all formalities, contacts with utulities, etc. are handled directly thru their administration. A carefree life, if there is enough trust between parties. In my previous position, my employer held a large number of tenancies for their middle and upper management. As and when there was a separation, they were usually happy for the departing employee to take over the lease, if he/she so wished. <em>edited by crystalsindubai on 10/08/2011</em>
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 August 2011 - 15:21
Derien, Fairycakeyumm: I am not arguing the rights or wrongs of this system (as to who is paying what) that is different from other countries; fact is, it is different. And, whilst I agree with your last sentence, Derien, I cannot see a change being implemented in the near future. There are, however, a number of new regulations (by Rera) that prohibit a landlord to kick a tenant out willy-nilly, especially if you worked with a reputable agent/agency that cares enough to insert appropriate safeguards into the agreement for [i'>both [/i'>tenant and landlord. As FFK1978 in an earlier post points out, an agent's job is finished with the rental documentation and handover, and I would reiterate my earlier argument (i.e. answer to OP's query) that he/she needs to be paid his/her fee at that time, by the party that is legally liable for that payment - under this country's rules, like it or not. <em>edited by crystalsindubai on 10/08/2011</em>
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 August 2011 - 13:24
How about a deliciously spicy green mango salad as starter; and a Thai curry (veggies & chicken) with rice (have rice cooker?) as a main course. Easy to prepare ahead, one pot needed.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 August 2011 - 12:36
Lynn, No condescending attitude here, just brutal reality... Referring to part of your first post: [i'>"This is all well and good crystal but unfortunately the good and honest agents may not have the house that is within your budget or that you want on their listings so you're left with no choice but to deal with the shady ones.[/i'>" Most agents will have many more properties on their books than advertised, and have access to others' listings through a professional network. Work with a chosen agent, tell him/her what you are looking for - they will actually do the running for you if you give them a realistic chance - and not play them against each other (which is counterproductive anyhow as you end up bidding against yourself). How many potentital tenants actually look at any agent and see a person who is between a rock and a hard place? Or the atrocious attitudes he or she has to put up with on many occasions? How many times his/her timing is being messed up with? How surprisingly much administrative work is involved. How many kms he/she drives for an appointment where the interested party does not show up - and upon reconfirmation/inquiry is advised that the party has committed to another property, without appropriate feedback, of course! The shoe also fits the other foot, you know... But, really, we are digressing here because the OP just queried as to when the agent needs to paid! Said all I am going to say, no further comments. edited by crystalsindubai on 10/08/2011 <em>edited by crystalsindubai on 10/08/2011</em>
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 August 2011 - 11:02
Hi Lynn66, Perhaps very simplistic, the tenant pays the fees in this country because it is done so here. If in the UK, US, Australia (or whatever is your home country) it is handled differently you may think this is right - but you are here, not there! And what is "right" after all? It is just different. That's the reality - one that many new expats have difficulty to accept. As a property consultant, I and my colleagues have NOT messed around with clients - more often it happened the other way around. And boy, could I tell you some stories. Just my personal experience, Lynn. All I can say - these fees were hard earned!
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 09 August 2011 - 22:39
Love Cafe Sushi at the Fairmont and Okku at The Monarch. Yum...
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 09 August 2011 - 20:52
Perhaps, as an honest (ex)-consultant I should take exception to that statement. There are many reputable companies in town that frown upon shady deals. Work with them, you will not regret and you can look for the biggest risks of your life somewhere else.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 09 August 2011 - 20:41
Put yourself for a moment in the shoes of the agent, please. All documents are signed, the keys are handed over - where does he/she stand? In my "other life" as an agent I have been in this situation - once, never to let it happen again! - where the new tenant intended to back out of paying the fees, then startet negotiating. A thoroughly unpleasant situation, I recall. The agency fees should fairly be paid at the document signing, together with the cheques for the landlord. If you have gone through all the right sources (i.e. registered agents, etc.) you have nothing to fear. <em>edited by crystalsindubai on 09/08/2011</em>
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 09 August 2011 - 10:47
Turkey is officially a secular country. Religion and customs around it are much freer. You'd be perfectly fine there during Eid. <em>edited by crystalsindubai on 09/08/2011</em>
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 09 August 2011 - 10:37
According to my experience, Dewa asks for: 1. PP copy of the person holding the Tenancy Contract w/visa page 2. Letter of Authorization by the Tenant to the person actually opening the account (including the persons name, passport no) 3. Original PP + photo copy of the person opening the account 4. Photo copy of the Tenancy Contract / also the original, if requested. On occasion, I found it handy to have the final Dewa bill payment receipt by the previous tenant (can be obtained through the agent or owner) - most of the time not necessary, but if Dewa claims there is an outstanding, one is prepared. edited by crystalsindubai on 09/08/2011 <em>edited by crystalsindubai on 09/08/2011</em>
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 08 August 2011 - 12:46
Is there any news on the progress of investigations?
crystalsindubai
713
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 August 2011 - 12:45
bump
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 08 August 2011 - 12:44
Interesting (rather lengthy) article, which of course, the medical industry, FDA, would totally disapprove of. Note that Dr Issel (Issel Treatment Center - see last para) has worked with German Government bodies for decades after initially having lost his medical licence in the 1960's and then reinstated. Noteworthy that even Hippocrates seemed to have approved... quote: Colon Hydrotherapy The importance of maintaining a healthy colon, or large bowel/intestine, to stave off disease has been known since ancient times. Proper nutrition and digestion build the fundament for a healthy digestive tract, whereas nutritional imbalance, chronic constipation, food allergies, and medications, such as antibiotics and steroids, impair the intestinal environment and favor the overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria, yeast and parasites. Poor colon health may lead to a variety of chronic diseases and immune disorders. Especially in times of dise ase, the help of enemas or colon irrigation devices is needed. Enemas were recorded as early as 1400 B.C. in an Egyptian medical document called the "Eber Papyrus." The famous physicians of the antiquity, Hippocrates and Galen, also advanced the use of enema therapy. In 1917, the American physician, Dr. Kellogg, reported in the Journal of American Medicine that in his treatment of gastrointestinal disease in over 40,000 cases, he had used surgery in only twenty cases. The rest were helped as a result of cleansing the bowels, diet and exercise. In the 1920's and 1930's, colon therapy was popular in the United States and Europe. Colon irrigation machines were commonly seen, and regularly used, as a standard practice in hospitals and physician's offices. But in the ensuing decades until today, the public's use of and access to this valuable health treatment, greatly decreased. This may be the single most important factor in the increase of chronic diseases in Western populations. The benefits of Colon Hydrotherapy are to -- •stimulate peristalsis; •break down hardened fecal matter; and •purge parasites. It eliminates from the bowel accumulated waste material which promotes putrefaction and the growth of disease causing bacteria. If toxic waste gets absorbed by the blood stream, the other purification organs such as the liver, the kidneys, the lungs and the skin, become overwhelmed. Toxins will be stored throughout the body's tissues and cells, which may trigger a variety of chronic diseases and immune disorders, such as Allergies, Asthma, Chronic Fatigue, Fibromyalgia, to name only a few. Detoxification through cleansing the colon is an important part of each immunotherapy protocol. Together with appropriate diet including probiotics and enzymes, exercise and supplementation, Colon Hydrotherapy can help re-establish the healthy equilibrium of beneficial bacteria. These beneficial bacteria on the mucous membranes of the colon and other parts of our body are the first line of defense, and their restoration is an essential component of the treatment programs at the Issels Treatment Center.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 07 August 2011 - 11:08
It is actually a fee (tax) levied by the Dubai Municipality on all housing in developed areas. At 5% of the annual rent, it is being collected thru Dewa on a monthly basis.
crystalsindubai
713
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 06 August 2011 - 18:09
.... called Fida...
 
 
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