Div48042 | ExpatWoman.com
 

Div48042

182
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 October 2011 - 12:30
Yes, they have the right to increase the rent but NO MORE than 5% yearly. All the property agents told us the same. I'm sorry I cannot remember which UAE body deals with it though. Will be RERA: http://www.rpdubai.com/rpdubai/fg?f=DaFD6buDFunTim9885A7Nu9lzfurwomLohK1uRM8fQp2o4BjiXn27rQoa%2Bla5GmYOQwJUreAWvU%3D
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 October 2011 - 12:19
Yes, they have the right to increase the rent but NO MORE than 5% yearly. All the property agents told us the same. I'm sorry I cannot remember which UAE body deals with it though.
182
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 October 2011 - 15:14
I did pack my jewelery...but we had to put the value of it and pay for insurance.
182
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 October 2011 - 14:29
You and your partner need to give notice in the area that you are registered (borough/council). You need to call the council and book it - you can do it from here I believe. Then both of you will have to attend an interview end of which your wish to marry will be registred and you will have to wait 16 days to get the paperwork back which you will need to present on the day of your marriage. (this paper can be collected by one of you) You can find all the info on your(your friends) council website. The best would be to phone the council you want to give the notice/get married and find outall the info from them. You were only renting there but you had the bills to pay, or the bank account for that address - that's the proof of address. Not sure how you can get any proof by staying there for 7 days, sorry. Or you may contact the British Embassy, they should know all the details. I guess one of you holds british passport..? <em>edited by Div on 18/10/2011</em>
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 October 2011 - 11:40
We did it in August and were told no alcohol was allowed. Then, reading the relocation Co papers, I saw a note that no plants or food was allowed - I still packed a box of chocolate :)
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 October 2011 - 10:15
The fish don't have any teeth :D. I walked past one of these spas in the UK and a sign clearly said you couldn't use it if you had a number of conditions, psoriasis and diabetes included, or if you had any kind of open wound or sore on your feet. I guess they're reliant on customers telling the truth, though. ... they never actually check your feet/toes. I did the fish pedicure in London, very good spa, but the girl did not even check if my toes/feet were ok. It put me off a bit at that time as people might just say nothing if they have any condition.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 October 2011 - 09:48
I guess I won't be doing it ever again!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 October 2011 - 18:10
I think in general in each and single country there are different people. In MY European country all of my friends are different, some of them pay themselves, some of them expect the guy to pay for them, first date or all the dates. I do not think it is right to stick a tag on people from particular country saying they do this or behave like that because there will always be people around insulted by it. I come from European country but I do not consider myself coming from Eastern Europe because my country is no. And I always correct people trying to say something about Eastern block ect. Its been many years now we have all these nice independent countries and people are different everywhere, you cannot simply claim that all the EE women take the wages from the man when they ger married! That's nonsense. End of the day, I like a man to pay for a woman :) and I always allowed my BF at tha time to pay for me.When we started dating seriously, I would take him to the cinema or buy him some little gift. And would take him out for dinner on his birthday. I always find it nice when a man is a gentleman ... consider me old fashioned.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 October 2011 - 11:04
Div thats such a shame that you had such a bad experience of the UK. I have only ever lived in Scotland and Wales and chivalry is def not dead in these countries. There are always the exceptions to the rule but they are just that exceptions. Aleta you should get a ticket for the St Andrews Ball there will be hundreds of scottish men, some wearing kilts, more than enough to satisfy your curiosity ;-) There is definately a fine line between equality and allowing yourself be be treated like the princesses we all are!! But that's how I felt in the UK. There must be something in the English ladies minds that they want to share the bill. Why don't you let a man pay?:) Often in a relationship it is the nicest time, when a man cares and pays, and takes you out, and tries to impress. So if he takes you out to Gaucho or Zuma for a date, be spoiled and enjoy it :) It all changes later on in the relationship after couple of good years hahhahah Norah, the UK was a good experience - English guys were not :) I once was taken out on date by an English guy in London and after the dinner when we got the bill he left it in the middle of the table for good couple of minutes. I simply ignored this and he had to take it.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 October 2011 - 10:57
See, Div, that's what I concluded. All the women's lib etc in the USA has destroyed their manliness. No manners, no chivalry, and no respect. It's very rare to find a man in the USA with an ounce of class. :D with you 100% re above and re americans ;)
182
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 October 2011 - 09:36
[ CM, do you leave them in for a whole month? Does it not irritate your eyes? I have always wanted to try leaving them in over-night, but too scared to do it. You need to be aware that all contact lenses are not suitable for this - even if they are called monthly... most opthalmologists prefer that you have a lens in your eye for the least possible time then dispose! edited by spongemonkey on 15/10/2011 I was told the same by my opthalmologist - never ever leave the contact in the eye for the whole month. She told me, it would be ok to leave overnight once in a while IF YOU HAVE TO (lets say camping) but thats it! your eye cannot breathe normally, it is much warmer on the eye surface, not enough moisture and there is a bigger chance to get an infection. I use True Eye or Daily Moist and I'm very happy with these.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 October 2011 - 09:13
It is not only Eastern European culture, I believe. That is a stereotype. In south of Europe the man pays for the bill as well, be it the 1st or 5th date. Lots of girls in the Eastern Europe earn enough or more that men and can easily pick up the bill and they do it. I think it is partly how independent you want to be/show you are. Or if you want to be treated. It does feel good when you are taken out on a date (1st, 2nd, 3rd time!) and the guy pays. At least something they can do, right? In the UK it is all about being equal and women showing they can pay for themselves. But look where it's all gone: men do not even open the door for you in the UK. I lived there for 4 years and actually missed men being gentleman!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 October 2011 - 09:48
My house too is dusty again by the next day, but then I have pets going in and out all the time so the door's are regularly opened. Also, we are behind Arabian Ranches, so behind us is nothing but pure dusty desert. The windows and doors dont seem to keep the dust out very well. I guess it depends on where you live, in town or on the outskirts like sky DSO. In theory an apartment will stay dust free longer than a villa. You might want to check the windows if they are not forming a seal, you can buy some sealing tape in Ace. As for the filters, I have cleaned them myself on a few occasions as I feel silly calling in the maintainence guys to do it. I would ask at the reception in your building. Thanks Sabrina. We live in Dubai Marina.. We don't open the windows, don't even go the balcony, so I would imagine it should stay dust free for a couple of days at least. Ah well...will have to go and see the maintenance guys.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 October 2011 - 17:55
Anybody?
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 October 2011 - 17:43
I did desert safari with Arabian Adventures last week and they told me that they do private safari, too. You book a car just for yourself. They can arrange a dinner in the desert etc. Check their website. I think other companies do it as well. We picked this one as alcohol was included in the price. ;)
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 October 2011 - 11:05
Frankly, I'm surprised this doesn't happen more often. The far east is cracking down on its pedophiles, Dubai is a very child-friendly, laid back place with kids everywhere! The fact that this hasn't happened yet (to expats at least, lots of locals have gone missing) is a miracle, in my opinion. I know we've been told it is safe here, and very child friendly but parents should never take things for granted. Couple of weeks ago I was walkng in Ibn Batuta, went to the Ladies and there was this tiny little girl, fair skin, blonde hair. She tried to wash her hands but could not even reach the tap! She was 4-5years old. I helped her wondering where her mum/nanny was. I waited for the girl to dry her hands and walked outside after her looking around if anyone was waiting for her. Nobody was there! so she just kept on walking... then she looked back at me - I thought maybe she was lost or something. I asked her: where is your mum? She is working, the girl said. I then asked her if she knows where to go - she said she did. then I just stood there waiting to see her find her mum but the girl just kept on walking. I was shocked. The mall was full of men just looking and smiling at her I would be scared to let a child of that age wander around on his/her own. I think the girl felt or was told the mall is a safe place but people who would want to do some harm also know that. The girl seemed to be curious about everything and if somebody spoke to her and asked her to go with them to see something, I am sure she would have done that. It is very sad and scary.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 October 2011 - 14:29
''Do you get 1st class cabin on the train? what are the prices like? I would like to go to Goa...with no make up and just be a wild child for a while" I've booked Aircondtioned 2nd Class which is very good. Check out the best website on the planet for more details...www.seat61.com. It was cheap...about 150 AED for 2 adults and a child and the B&B is about 100 AED per night (we go to South Goa where it's quieter). The flights on Emirates were reasonable as I booked ages ago but I'm like that! I've already booked flights for next Easter! Thanks, will do! Would be amazing if we manage to get away for a while. You mentioned you are flying to Mumbai - is it the best way of getting to Goa? From your comments it seems you have already been to Goa :)
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 October 2011 - 14:25
We are going to Egypt. Let's hope all **** doesn't break out while we're there! I have to say the recent attack on the Coptics is making me a bit nervous. I bet you are going to one of their sea resorts? In that case I wouldn't worry to much. We went there end of Jan when the whole thing started. We stayed at Sharm. It was quiet and pieaceful. What they showed on TV was only happening in Cairo. Unfortunatelly, we were not able to visit the pyramids as it was closed. We went one day to the market in Sharm, even all the travel agents (from the UK) did not recomment this - all the local guys told us it was safe. They had a demonstration while we were in the market. But it was peaceful, no problems at all. And all the tourists just sat at a distance in some cafe watching the whole thing. We spoke to couple of guys there and they were all very upset about what was being shown on TV. Hope you have nice holiday!:)
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 October 2011 - 12:51
Couple of days in Mumbai then the overnight sleeper train to Goa where we're staying in a cheap B&B on the beach (going back to my back packer days!) Do you get 1st class cabin on the train? what are the prices like? I would like to go to Goa...with no make up and just be a wild child for a while :)
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 October 2011 - 12:49
We wanted to go to Thailand, Bangkok for couple of days and then some remote island, however, the tickets are super expensive... so still looking!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 October 2011 - 17:34
Well don't forget that all cars over here are automatic so that is soo much easier than a manual. You will take to it like a duck to water, riding a bicycle .. catch my drift :) Maybe get a nice hire car too, and try out in that before buying somehting to really get used to the roads! I know what my DH's comment gonna be: we will get you a bumper car! :) Thanks for your support, my confidence is growing!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 October 2011 - 15:55
Check Tamani Hotel. Very spacious and nice views, walking distance to Dubai Marina...but thats pretty much it!:) the cleaning is bad, and all of their kitchen equipment is either falling apart or isn't working. Thanks god we stayed there not too long! I know the yearly rental is 130k. not sure if they do short lease. Good luck!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 October 2011 - 15:50
Ahh thank you girls! Feels good to get a reply and to know I'm not the only one! My problem is that when I say I haven't driven for a while....it means some 5 years :D and here they drive like mad. At least I could drive with same madness :) I will have to have a word with my DH...can already imagine his reaction :D
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 October 2011 - 10:48
Hahahah I had the same question, Princess! I think Gitex is techno exhibition, you need to buy a ticket to attend it, and the other one is like a shop only for all the gadgets, so you don't need to go to the exhibition.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 October 2011 - 10:43
I can highly recommend Collin from Elysian Real eastate. He talks a lot :) but he is really nice. He is from the UK so no prob communicating. He's been here for only over 6months, as far as I remember, so he still has got that Western approach to things like calling you back, listening to what you actually want, etc.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 October 2011 - 09:37
Or they tell you: the window glass is shaded, nothing can't be seen from the ouside, so you won't even need the curtains :) then in the evening you look out to the building in front and see some guy in his boxer shorts watching telly heheh I wish at least he was good looking ;) hey, but there are good agents out there! rare, but they do exist!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 October 2011 - 14:28
We only drink bottled water, but I cook, make tea/coffee, and brush teeth with the tap water. If you boil the tap water, all the bacteria dies anyway. Not sure about washing fruit/veg?? Does anone soak the veg in some special solution (water and vinegar???), I cannot remember.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 October 2011 - 13:31
I also use coconut oil (there are so many of them and cheap!) before going to sleep once/twice a week - just masage the oil into the scalp (and down to the ends if you have dry hair) and leave overnight. I found some coconut oil in Carrefour today next to the regular cooking oils but the bottle say 100% pure so I suppose that is fine to use?? I have long hair and just wondered how much I am meant to use? DC Hi DC, You should be able to use the cooking coconut oil, too! I did not think of looking into the cooking oil section :) I guess the only difference might be the smell as the cooking oil might have the sweet coconut smell and you feel like eating coconut cookies when you use it :) I bought some light coconut oil, the brand is called Parachute. I use it everytime after washing my hair and leave it in. My hair is below shoulders, I use couple of drops and masage into the damp hair. I do not apply to the roots as my hair is greasy anyway. You will see it when you try it, you will feel what is the right amount for you. I apply quite a lot (not dripping, of course :D) when I leave it in for the night - massage it into the scalp mainly, I apply all the way till the ends, and make it into a plat. Actually, one of the hairdressers has once told me that it is ok to use any oil for a home treatment, even vegetable oil.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 October 2011 - 10:40
You need to look into his contract. It may state that the overtime is not paid, then there is no difference how many hours they have on the timesheets! The contract should also state how many hours he is entitled to, and I am pretty sure there is a clause about overtime if required, as he is in management. My DH leaves at 7.30am, comes home at 7.30-8pm, plus he has to work on the weekends as his boss keeps on sending him emails asking for this or that. His contract says his working hours are 9-5pm. Nobody cares what's written in the contract - that's what you have to work here. I do not think it is a country to take the case further. Do you know any success stories? Has he tried speaking to his manager or HR? hey, and how about next time he refuses to sign the timesheet and requests the hours to be amended? But this should have been long time ago...
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 October 2011 - 12:02
Koh Lanta - Pimalai hotel. Remote, peaceful and beautiful, wonderul beach, wonderful hotel.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 October 2011 - 11:41
I also use coconut oil (there are so many of them and cheap!) before going to sleep once/twice a week - just masage the oil into the scalp (and down to the ends if you have dry hair) and leave overnight. You can also try mayo+oil mix 1:1. Just mix it and apply the mixture to the scalp (or all hair), put a shower cap on (or any plastic bag) and wrap a towel around to keep it warm, keep for 30-45 min and wash it off, shampoo etc. You can also use a herbal rinse after washing your hair. I have light hair so I use cammomile tea. Couple of tea bags, 1-1.5l boiled water, let it brew, cool down and rinse the hair after shampooing/conditioning. Do not use tap water after this rinse. I some times add some lemon juice as well, this rinse makes the hair look really shiny. I am sorry I do not know what herbs to use for dark hair - google it? :)
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 October 2011 - 15:43
I do not want to sound sarcastic but not all those people are that poor to give dirhams to left and right. Because of people tipping 100dhs to a taxi driver they become spoiled, they do not appreciate tips which are small and it shouldnt be like that. Example, I take a short taxi drive for 15dhs, I would tip only couple of dirhams. and they do not even say thank you because they expect every tourist/expat looking person to tip them well! I have a rule - tip no more than 10% (plus minus) the total amount and I think it is fair. I have pitty for the poor workers but wait - they all came for better life, as someone said. they chose this life. They send home 2/3 of the money they earn here - they are not poor but they chose to do so - because they buy land there, build houses. They do complain there is no money here but why are they still here??? most of the taxi drivers have been here for 5-10 years. Most of them say they do not like it here. so why are they here? because of money. I had a very honest conversation with one of them. He has not seen his kids for 2years. and I asked him why he was still here - he has ALREADY built his house, got the land. His answer was: to build 2more houses for my kids. you call it poor?!