cymraes | ExpatWoman.com
 

cymraes

cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 14 December 2013 - 22:07
Get her back into her own room ASAP - harsh but it's the right thing to do x
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 06 December 2013 - 06:07
Anyone know if there is a Molton Brown outlet at MOE? I usually go to Dubai Mall but need to pick something up at MOE today so thought I'd nip in to get DH some birthday smelies. Thanks in advance x
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 01 December 2013 - 10:49
And hopefully those of us renewing, we will have the rent committee to keep things somewhat sensible .... although only time will tell!
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 30 November 2013 - 15:23
DH was given some Webber ones about 4 years ago and they are still going strong - I think our friends got them at Spinneys, they also do a belt (like a tool belt - which I thought was kind of cool as a gift) - DH wants to go to the BBQ warehouse in Al Quoz for a shuftie to see if there is anything else utensil wise he can buy! Not been yet, am kind of not reminding him for fear that he will remortgage the Durango for a big bbq! http://www.gulf-leisure.com/BBQ%20Warehouse%20Location%20%20map.pdf
cymraes
1430
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 30 November 2013 - 15:08
thanks McB - that's one supper next week sorted :-)
cymraes
1430
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 30 November 2013 - 15:06
Shaun is excellent, he's done my cooker and I was so pleased, nice chap too - have him lined up for the post Christmas deep clean of my cooker. No bbq experience for me but if the cooker is anything to go by - he's your man!
cymraes
1430
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 30 November 2013 - 09:13
Great thanks Chi2dxb ..... will head down! I
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 29 November 2013 - 14:57
thanks for the suggestions, yes Pizaitalo are great .... Googled Ningxia said they don't deliver - do they only deliver through foodonclick? Will defo give them a try, DH wants a new chinese place to try. We had NoodleBox in the end, they did say it would be 90 mins which it was exactly, but the food was absolutely love, and actually quite hot. Think it came from Motor City. Great night in - can recommed chick flick - Keeping the Faith! thanks girls x
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 28 November 2013 - 09:21
Just seen a few new crock pot recipes that include ranch dressing seasoning mix but can't see it in Spinneys, anyone seen it or is there a substitute? Or what could I put in as ingredients to make this up? Thanks
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 27 November 2013 - 19:06
School would provide a labour card in our school - but the contract is between school and the LSA, and then a separate contract between school and the parents - have to say our school have some great LSAs, well for my son they did - our Senco is great!
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 26 November 2013 - 21:10
My company need a specific note it can't be - exhaustion, breast feeding and those types of things - has to be very specific, sadly, apparently they are clamping down!!
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 26 November 2013 - 21:06
I had a c-section in the UK - 6 week ban on driving - dr said if I had to suddenly break during that period it could cause significant internal damage! Have to say Wasn't out of my dressing gown for 8 weeks though!!
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 26 November 2013 - 21:03
DS had a shadow teacher but only 70% (think!?) school nominate, we pay 45,000 per year - they would not allow us to choose our own. Think 100% shadow at our gems sch is 65,000 in addition to sch fees
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 22 November 2013 - 08:50
Was searching for the National article and discovered this .... What's the bet Dubai will follow suit? http://m.thenational.ae/uae/abu-dhabi/abu-dhabi-executive-council-removes-5-per-cent-rent-caps (Sorry don't know how to put a smaller link in!)
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 04 November 2013 - 18:32
Thank you all for your replies, we have replied to the LL stating the notice period and our intention to renew. Let's see what he comes back with. @ emlsnre - yes we're still at The Villa, happy to pay the going rate at the moment, but I know he will fight on the price. We're sticking to our guns and thankfully/hopefully will have the RC on our side. At some point we will have to move but at the mo we're staying put :-)x
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 03 November 2013 - 18:22
.... but will Eastern Expats be in a position/want to pay the rentals that Western Expats are being forced to pay? Hurry up new projects on to the market, hopefully that will make a difference .... however I think the rental price on these will also be way above what they are actually worth! Time to ship out for lots of us I think ..... it's been a blast, but I won't be put to ransom (edited for poor spelling!) <em>edited by cymraes on 03/11/2013</em>
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 03 November 2013 - 18:16
Thanks Pinks, I have been following all rent threads for years, I just know he wants to charge more rent to a new tenant, as the prices are rocketing and we have checked the rent calculator and he can only charge us the 5% which we're happy to pay for the next year. I don't want to give him the answers, but I want to know that we can stick to our guns. He's pushing to get an answer from us before the 90 day period (to get us out) we want to renew, DH want him to stew. We are going to ask him for the Ejari too. Thanks for your support and swift answer, we'll stick to our guns! This is why I love EW x
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 03 November 2013 - 17:52
Yup and this is the problem - people believe it and take the Mickey. Salaries aren't going up to compensate - the 2nd bubble and burst is coming if people don't watch it. That is the primary difference between 2005-2007 and 2013. The vast majority of jobs and positions saw compensation increase between 2004 and 2007. That is no longer the case and most packages are not increasing at all. You cannot have a market where rental prices increase 30% every year while salaries increase 3% on average But who is going to tell the property market and landlords that? Sadly we are getting to the position where we can't keep paying more rent with salaries/benefits that are not increasing ... Dubai will see an exodus ... maybe that's what they want? I even think that all these new properties coming on line won't actually make a difference, greed and habit seem to prevail :-( <em>edited by cymraes on 03/11/2013</em>
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 03 November 2013 - 17:41
Dr Andrew Devine at the City Hospital - I know he's not female, but he's the best doctor I've seen here in Dubai - what I would call a real British GP (comes from West London), he is sympathetic, kind and practical - I have no hesitation in recommending him, I have seen him a few times now for 'ladies' issues as well as other things, and he has been fantastic.
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 25 October 2013 - 15:50
There are a couple of stores in the Malls, especially on the ground floor of Dubai Mall that sell some fabulous ones ... the specialist shop is near all those posh chocolate shops on the ground floor Yo Sushi side ... sorry about the poor directions! I have promised one to take home as my gozome prezzie, whenever that will be .....
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 25 October 2013 - 15:46
Hi there, I started taking Biotin about 2 months ago for my weak nails - it's taken that time for me to see a difference to the nails but they are now growing stronger. As an aside, my hair is growing like crazy and in really good condition, it is coloured but looking fab and I haven't changed shampoos etc - coincidence?. I bought Blubonnet Biotin 5000mcg Vcapsules from the Nutrition Centre, next to Supercare Pharmacy in Silicon Oasis (next to big Spinney's) I think they were 110AED (or about that) for 60 capsules x. Hope this helps x
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 12 October 2013 - 21:04
I think they sell them at Centerpoint, I believe there is a sale on at the moment - they usually discount the candles quite a bit, I've only been to the Mirdif branch but there are others throughout Dubai. Check out Bath and Body works they do nice candles in glasses and often 3 for 2 deals. That IS Lifestyle - see post below...they are stopping selling.. Oops QueenL responded several seconds before me .....sorry about that!
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 12 October 2013 - 19:36
Thanks both Yorky and Simpleasabc .... DS is ASD and this is the first achievement award he has received in 10 years @ sch!! (not university material ... See previous thread!) thanks for your suggestions ... Any comments on Fire and Ice? DS just found it in Time out xxx. Vouchers not a defo... But good if we could x. So proud of him x
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 12 October 2013 - 18:09
I think they sell them at Centerpoint, I believe there is a sale on at the moment - they usually discount the candles quite a bit, I've only been to the Mirdif branch but there are others throughout Dubai. Check out Bath and Body works they do nice candles in glasses and often 3 for 2 deals.
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 12 October 2013 - 17:56
Hi all DH has promised DS that he'll take us out to dinner to celebrate an achievement at school ... DS (15) wants steak, where's your good place? We've done Hunters, Gaucho, Seafire, Prime 68, Centre Cut, West 14th, Rib Room, Meat Co - where to you recommend? I'd like something not too romantic (!) but with a little buzz. Vouchers (Entertainer, Time Out, EPC) would be good but not essential. All suggestions welcome, and oh is it a dry night Sunday or Monday just so I know?
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 12 October 2013 - 15:30
Zambia - as Opsiedaisy says you will need to sponsor all 'staff', how about hiring a nanny to look after your child, a maid/cook to do your cooking and cleaning? That would seem like what you want, you will probably need to accommodate them too so you will need a home that gives you the extra room. Jobs are very hard to find especially for wives who want flexibility and short hours. I know people here who have been looking for at least 2 years. What is your job field? Perhaps EWs can help point you in the right direction for the right places/agencies to look and register. I am currently working here in Dubai but the salary is poor compared to the UK where I come from and the hours are long and demanding (but I don't want to have a huge gap in my CV), I have a teenager so things are easier and I don't need to worry about childcare etc.
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 11 October 2013 - 12:13
Thanks all for your tips, am defo going to try the Lebanese method a la Ginnee x
cymraes
1430
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 04 October 2013 - 08:48
Fabulous tips ladies .... Just what I wanted thanks! Now to drop hints to DH for Christmas!! x
cymraes
1430
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 25 September 2013 - 21:37
What I would call in UK speech - bog standard - we order at least once a week when I get in from work and can't be ar$ed cooking, DS loves their butter chicken - try it but don't expect gourmet however perfectly serviceable in my humble opinion c X
cymraes
1430
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 27 August 2013 - 20:44
Have you tried Swiss via Zurich - we did it last year very good price and short stopover at Zurich only an hour. Food, service and onboard entertainment excellent. Just done DXB-FRA-UK-FRA-DXB with Lufthansa, very mediocre - fair service, poor onboard entertainment and Frankfurt layover - poor facilities Swiss is my first, non direct, choice x
cymraes
1430
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 25 August 2013 - 20:16
Moonbug - you are aware that if you've swapped your UK driving licence for a UAE one, then your UK one is invalid as you're not resident in the UK?
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 22 August 2013 - 19:57
So the GCSE results are out today .... Congrats to all who did well, but what happens and what do you suggest, if the outcome was not too good and the child really doesn't want to re-take or really want to go to Uni? What other pathways are available in Dubai for a bright yet non-academic?
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 31 July 2013 - 22:05
Hey Tattie Bogle, thanks for thinking about me (smiles as to the loveliness of EW!) managed to get an ironing man from Sky Court Towers (spot on/free) he is brilliant and so affordable, highly recommended we're at The Villa, he's not the best time keeper but he does a good job and I (and DH ex military so shirts are a priority!) am happy. But very grateful to you for your recommendation TB xxx Will make a note in the event mine doesn't come up trumps over the next few months Honestly, thanks am chuffed you thought about me and taking the time to post xx
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 26 July 2013 - 11:14
A neighbour of ours has hung up CD/DVDs on their balcony and patio that glisten, don't know if it works but it's worth a go and they look quite good
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 22 July 2013 - 20:21
DS is at another Gems school and we are delighted with the quality of education, environment and pastoral care. There is a lot of Gems bashing, but IMHO we are very happy - we moved from a top non profit school to a Gems school.
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 21 July 2013 - 21:33
Hi there, firstly are you a qualified FS1/FS2 teacher now or will you be qualified by Jan 14? If you are only newly qualified I understand, as a friend is a teacher, that you will be on the base pay scale. If you are lucky you could get an overseas contract it may give you housing - however from my teacher friend, if on an overseas contract you may only be entitled to one child place at a school. However schools, like everyone else, prefers to hire locally employed FS teachers (because they're cheaper - but you'd need your husband to sponsor you then) and that comes without all the benefits of housing, school places, medical, flights etc. If you were to pay for housing on your own you would need at least 80-100,000 to cover a 3 bed property, schooling and living is generally very expensive. Sadly, jobs in the catering industry here are very low paid - as there are too many competing from the subcontinent willing to take on a demanding role for very little money. My advice would be to do your home work, don't just arrive and look for a job - they are difficult to find. Many EWs will give you lots of sound advice. Good luck :-)
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 16 July 2013 - 21:26
Lamb Biryani - left over roast lamb - pour over about 1 pint of hot chicken or lamb stock over the cold meat, leave to steep for about a half hour. Saute an onion and some garlic until translucent, add drained lamb, stir fry on medium for about 15 mins, add a mug of basmati rice (I don't rinse, but you can) a couple of tablespoons (or to taste) of curry paste (I use Pataks) mix well, add the lamb/chicken stock, and simmer for about 40 mins, adding more liquid as necessary. I then add any mushrooms, veggies, pinenuts as I have. Adjust seasoning/curry paste, stir in a handfull of fresh chopped corriander and a squeeze of fresh lemon - serve with a dollop of creamy natural yoghurt, and a wedge of lemon - one of DH's faves <em>edited by cymraes on 16/07/2013</em>
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 16 July 2013 - 18:51
thanks Mich, I think they just want it for email and skype - thanks I will look it up on Du :-)
cymraes
1430
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 13 July 2013 - 19:01
Welcome supermumof3 - you will need to be supermum to cope in the heat with 3 children, especially the teenagers (I have one teenager who has turned into a slug!), having said that this is my 4th Ramadan and although we're not fasting, it is tough when out during the day - so as to be respectful to our hosts. Currently, thankfully, the humidity hasn't hit as hard as other years ... but I guess it's only round the corner. We arrived in late July, those 4 years ago and it was really was quite an eyeopener the heat, and the (slow) pace things happen during Ramadan - just so you know what to expect, this time last year even being in the pool before 6pm was a challenge. Just a word of caution, some insurance companies will not cover 'pre existing conditions' check with your insurance company - I know some who have had to pay out of their own pockets for treatment on pre existing conditions - best to check with your insurers. Good luck and welcome - we love it here :-)
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 13 June 2013 - 18:55
Take away tonight with some grape, DS has GCSE maths paper tomorrow but invited to friends after - and relax!
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 13 June 2013 - 17:58
One if my most favourite cities, used to spend a lot of time there with work in my previous life, great city to wander round, trams are brilliant, grab a guide book, comfy shoes and wander - attached one of my fave places to eat- and tips on hotels .... I've stayed at both Kraznapolsky, Pulitzer (oceans 12 filmed there) and Americain with business over 8 years, also try Bildeberg (sp) which DH and I stayed at cheaper than the others Amsterdam www.envy.nl/en/ - tapas restaurant http://m.guardian.co.uk/travel/2011/jun/22/top-10-amsterdam-boutique-hotels
cymraes
1430
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 10 June 2013 - 21:45
With all due respect don't hide any special needs you are aware of most schools I know will have a clause that says if you withhold info then your place will be withdrawn - from my own experience be honesty. Consider applying to a GEMS school who have excellent inclusion policies, you may have to pay extra - like I do ;(year 10)) but I am very happy
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 10 June 2013 - 19:08
Hi all, our garden irrigation system needs servicing tweeking, can anyone recommend someone reliable and competent (is that an oxymoron in Dubai?) Any recommendations welcome. Thanks Cymraes
cymraes
1430
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 06 June 2013 - 18:55
Thanks Apricot will pop there tomorrow x
cymraes
1430
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 06 June 2013 - 18:54
Can't you Skype? It's free .....
cymraes
1430
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 06 June 2013 - 13:52
I googled 'American curriculum schools Dubai' http://www.dubaifaqs.com/schools-dubai.php You can then look up the KHDA reports to get an insight into how they perform, personally I'd visit the schools for a real feel - the outstanding schools aren't necessarily the best schools for your own child .... Then there's the dilemma of getting a place!
cymraes
1430
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 06 June 2013 - 11:50
They were doing lots of offers last week .....
cymraes
1430
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 06 June 2013 - 11:45
Which curriculum? There's a school/education tab on this site which may be a good place to start. Also if you search schools on the site lots of threads will come up ETA. http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/forum43-nurseries--schools.aspx <em>edited by cymraes on 06/06/2013</em>
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 05 June 2013 - 18:30
DH and DS (now15) have been going for a couple of years now gold class in Mirdif no probs, but not allowed in platinum in Dubai Mall, but doesn't say ages in the small print. DS looks young for his age too <em>edited by cymraes on 05/06/2013</em>
cymraes
1430
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 31 May 2013 - 09:15
We've only used the Mirdif branch, but always found them good - routine and for emergencies
 
 
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