Gentle | ExpatWoman.com
 

Gentle

Gentle
265
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Latest post on 12 May 2014 - 11:55
I like the California Chiropractic Center in DHCC. They have a few doctors, but I've only tried Dr. Charles and Dr. James and they are both really good.
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 May 2014 - 11:49
I would actually suggest Muweileh as the area is pretty safe. Mostly female students (Sharjah Academic City is down the road), local couples and young families seem to live there.
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 May 2014 - 11:46
Have the app on my phone and when none of the new deals appeared I updated the app. Worked like a charm.
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 May 2014 - 12:46
It can be really great. I've used it in Paris, London, Madrid, Berlin and several other cities and it was excellent. My top recommendation would be to read reviews thoroughly. I personally prefer to go for a rental that is rented out year round (i.e, not someone's home). Airbnb has saved us a ton of money, without having to compromise on location or luxury. Why don't you shortlist a few places and post them here for feedback?
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 May 2014 - 14:23
I went through something not quite so similar the other day. That was a mean woman. Her son (about 3 yrs old) kept calling her. After ignoring him for a minute tops, she turned and slapped him across the face several times. People went around them and pretended not to see anything. I couldn't do nothing, so I stopped in front of her. looked at her, at her crying son then back at her. I shook my head, but didn't know what to say so I tskd- loudly (feeling like a grandmother). Was it too much? I don't think it was nearly enough. She did stop slapping him though.
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 May 2014 - 13:07
No advice here, but just wanted to say that I feel for you OP and your DD. Horrific really. Don't blame yourself though !
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 May 2014 - 12:45
This seems to be a pretty hot thread that needs careful treading, so I'll be brief. To me, the OP not only clearly wants to go, but actually needs to go back to NYC. I understand. You have already given the agreed on 5 years and are into the 6th one. You want to be back on track with your career. Now, my question is, what about your husband? How much of his dream has he accomplished in those almost 6 years? How much longer does he need to fulfill it? If it was one year, perhaps your move to NYC is just the next logical step, and he can follow in a year. If he hasn't set a date and wants to stay in Dubai indefinitely- will your move be the first step of moving the whole family (DH included) back to NYC. If so, then the move absolutely makes sense. BUT, would he want to stay in Dubai indefinitely in-spite of your move? In which case, you have a lot to think/talk about. Not just the kids, but your marriage as well. My parents have one of the strongest marriages I know. I wasn't without its ups and downs. However, during the time my dad's job took him to another city and he commuted to us during the weekend for a full 2 years- I wasn't sure their marriage would survive. He practically demoted himself in-order to be able to stay with us full time. I think it was one of the hugest sacrifices he ever made, and makes me look up to him so much more. Sorry for the long post OP. I just really think you need to talk this through with you husband. This decision is for so much more than just a move. Good luck.
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 May 2014 - 11:15
This is the website, if you are interested: http://www.hotelamira.com/ P.S. I had stayed in Taksim before that, but now prefer Sultanahmet !
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 May 2014 - 11:13
We stayed at a boutique hotel called Amira- on a quiet street just a few minutes walk from Sultanahmet. It is usually ranked #1 or #2 of Istanbul hotels on Tripadvisor. The location was amazing, the rooms were nice, the food was delicious and prices reasonable. Best of all - the staff. They went out of their way to help, even making sure we knew exactly the best short cuts, restaurants, etc. There is a taxi stand outside, so that was great when we left for the airport, but we pretty much walked everywhere. I would stay there again in a heartbeat.
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 May 2014 - 13:22
Yep. Silver section- B41.
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 May 2014 - 13:05
Do not make any further mistakes with her. Any girls you interview locally will smell your desperation and treat you exactly the same. I would cancel her visa immediately, and take her to the airport. Anyone that says that they want to go home will not be working hard for you - and really can't be trusted to be at home with your precious one. In my time in Dubai, I have had the pregnant maid; the runaway maid (my mother is very sick - it's her heart); the lying maid; the thieving maid, the psycho maid (she lasted 3 days), the filthy maid, and just recently got rid of the world's laziest maid. I am not at all harsh, and I pay very well (but not 3,000 AED - that's just crazy money). In return I was treated terribly - and lied to repeatedly. After ditching the world's laziest maid, I spoke to others at my work and asked them where they sourced their excellent home help (I did not speak to other westerners!) and decided I would try a different recruitment approach. I first interviewed around town - and met all these 'wonderful maids' with glowing references - all wanting ridiculous salaries, up to 3 nights out.... etc etc. Those that did turn up to interview just asked how much they will get and were so jaded by the whole Dubai lifestyle - one said she has many many friends and her madam lets her spend Thurs/Fri and Sat night with them. To be honest any maid that turns up with more bling than beyonce isn't in your home caring for your children.... she is using your house as free accommodation whilst she pursues other interests. After the final round of disastrous interviews (where one maid came to our apartment and said it was too large for her and she would not be able to clean it...) I contacted labour supply companies in Dubai. They charge between 7,000 - 10,000 for a maid and you will also have to pay the cost to sponsor her. I was so impressed with the standard of CVs. I interviewed around 15 girls (all based in the Philippines). I was then sent a 20 minute pre-recorded video interview of any of the girls I wanted more information about. It was an incredible eye opener. We just never ask the right questions - however these agents live and die by their reputation so they do not refer / take on any rubbish maids. All the girls were so genuine, and I could have hired about 5 of the 15 I interviewed right there and then. They sign undertakings with the agency as well as with their sponsor to work and honour the agreements. Most of them are assigned to Arabic families. Anyway, I just want to say, ditch the maids that are advertising here. They are playing us all against each other and when you work full time and look for someone to care for your kids you sometimes make desperate decisions. Pop your LO in a nursery if need be until you find the right one. You may have to do that for a month, but the cost will be worth if you can feel more comfortable with the care arrangements long term. Trust me when I say, it was so hard for me to get rid of the world's laziest maid - because it was just easier to keep her year in year out. She knew the kids and the routines - but the kids have blossomed since she left. The world's laziest maid spent 20 hours a day in her room.... . Anytime I needed anything I had to go and knock on her door and wait there .... I would get home from work and she would be sitting on the couch watching tv with the kids. No dinner, kids in school uniforms... and the whole time I would just think - well at least they are safe... (guilt of going to work). It has taken me a month to unplug my kids from the ipad,ipod and tv - as it was what she did every day - just turn them on and head to her room. Argh. Feel so glad that the world's laziest maid has gone and that I invested money and time into employing someone new to the region. Just google - Labour Supply Company Dubai and a range of options will come up. Well said ! Sorry, the thumbs just weren't enough.
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 May 2014 - 12:21
Let me know how you get on. I have a gorgeous Valentino wedding gown, and thought I'd make a call to a 2nd hand wedding dress boutique just to see what I could get for it if I wanted. They told me they only sell dresses by "well known" designers thatpeople in the UAE are interested in, and Valentino didn't make the list. Still feeling speechless. The dress cost a fortune and was absolutely beautiful.
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 May 2014 - 12:10
@Sage&Onion: For a second I thought you wanted the OP to grow 2 extra sets of hands!
Gentle
265
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 May 2014 - 11:57
TKD. Beautiful designs, extra comfy and excellent quality- they last forever.
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 May 2014 - 11:48
Never uses the toilet brush... Huh. I can beat that. I asked him to get new ones, and he said: "What for? We never use them- our toilets are always clean" :") <em>edited by Gentle on 04/05/2014</em>
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 April 2014 - 13:17
How come Tom & Serg suggestions are getting red thumbs? Please share if there is something we should be aware of!
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 April 2014 - 12:40
For something different, I like reading books by Jodi Picoult and Sophie Hannah. They are quite intense though. Picoult's novels usually deal with ethical issues. I feel that her writing style allows the reader to consider the issue from several viewpoints. You might just be surprised at how much of a moral dilemma you find yourself in as you read. Hannah is more of a psychological thriller who keeps you guessing till the last minute. I've never been able to read more than 1 of her novels at a time. <em>edited by Gentle on 30/04/2014</em>
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 April 2014 - 12:24
Hi! I have black hair and was planning to go lighter for the summer - as I'm a bit bored with the black right now. I was told to try out Maria Dowling but was kinda upset when I called and said she doesn't take new clients, boooo! :( Can anyone recommend a good colorist that knows how to deal with black hair. Thanks!! I have really dark hair and could never get it colored the right shade as colorists messed it up then blamed it on my hair color. Finally found a french colorist who is amazing with it and have been happy with her for 3 years now. I can email you her contact details if you are interested.
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 April 2014 - 09:58
I love Tom & Serg in Al,Quoz Great coffee, great staff and great food too ِabsolutely- and their coffee is [i'>amazing [/i'>!
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 April 2014 - 10:12
The fact that she wasn't open with you form the beginning re coming back to Dubai, and working on the side is not reassuring. I do doubt her reason regarding the commute, many of us commute for much longer every day and even drive for that matter. You pay her a generous salary, you have clearly been good to her. I wouldn't ask her to stay, or even allow her to, after this- especially as you leave your DD in her care. Book her a ticket, and give her as little notice as possible. Absolutely do use her salary to book the ticket. I know placing the ban is harsh, and I usually discourage it. Lately I've been wondering if it would save another family one day- either because she will learn her lesson or because other maids would be discouraged from trying the same trick. It is ultimately up to you.
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 April 2014 - 13:50
my brother drove on an international license in the UK and had no problems. Think its only 100 AED and gets processed there and then at the traffic HO near Al Mulla Plaza We have driven on INT'L license from UAE in London! Same here..
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 April 2014 - 13:48
And then you get the idiots who ask you about kids when you are unable to have them like my poor DD who has had IVF which failed. She is now looking at adoption. One of her [b'>"friends"[/b'> wanted to know whose fault it was and maybe she could try a one night stand with a trusted male friend who was fertile!! My DD's response is not printable! Terrible.......such a personal thing......isnt your DD going through enough to encounter this "friend" of hers.....how dare she! I am glad she came up with an "unprintable" response, then and there! Just reminded me of my dear friend, who got pregnant with twins after 6 - 7 years of marriage and lost them in her 5th Month.........People had the guts to say, that, " It is the God's way of punishing you for refusing his blessings for the past few years".............Match that! That is awful, just awful. How do they even come up with these things?! I'd like to tell her to just wait for the punishment she gets for that comment! <em>edited by Gentle on 28/04/2014</em>
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 April 2014 - 09:35
1762 (Appetite)
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 April 2014 - 09:30
Was just in IKEA- several bunk bed options were available. Thanks to everyone for your responses. Gentle, are you sure the ikea bunks had beds on the lower level? Sorry that may sound daft but online I could only see 'high' single beds with seats or desk underneath. TIA x Yes, I'm sure :)
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 April 2014 - 09:27
Insensitive idiot..
Gentle
265
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 April 2014 - 12:57
Did you try Dubai Confidential? They have a "Business Girl" section that might be suitable.
Gentle
265
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 April 2014 - 12:42
...and they're kids. They're not supposed to understand ;)
Gentle
265
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 April 2014 - 12:27
Was just in IKEA- several bunk bed options were available.
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 April 2014 - 12:25
I think it depends on when her visa ends, as I (think) you only get the remaining time in the visa transferred.
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 April 2014 - 12:22
I use SmoothSkin- which is IPL not laser as I have relatively sensitive skin. Bought it from Boots back in the UK and I'm happy with the results.
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 April 2014 - 12:15
F) Eat one, reach for a second and find DH has polished them all off..
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 April 2014 - 10:48
I got 21. "You only sort of hate people. Sometimes. When they’re being the worst. And that’s perfectly natural. You don’t put up with any nonsense but you’re probably not a duck" Huh. Thought I'd be higher. I guess the fact that the weekend begins in a few hours might have something to do with it. We should all do the test again on Sunday. lol. <em>edited by Gentle on 24/04/2014</em>
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 April 2014 - 10:35
Bless you for this. It has been such a hectic day that I forgot it's Thursday!
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 April 2014 - 12:05
Favourite Things, Dubai Marina Mall & Souq.com. Lots of other suggestions here: http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/topic184819-belly-band--where-can-i-find-them-in-dubai-pls.aspx
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 April 2014 - 11:56
ladies, you're making me hungry..
Gentle
265
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 April 2014 - 13:47
I just realized how awful I sound. It is just one of those days...
Gentle
265
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 April 2014 - 13:44
I know, and on some days it feels like they are everywhere. Forget zombie movies, the real horror is that idiocy is fast becoming an epidemic. <em>edited by Gentle on 22/04/2014</em>
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 April 2014 - 12:46
House of Prose is good for buying second hand books, and they have branches all over. They also buy their books back at half price, so it is a good deal. Not so if you want to sell them a new book. <em>edited by Gentle on 22/04/2014</em>
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 April 2014 - 12:42
Another vote for Talise Ottomen Spa- best facilities I've ever seen in a spa. Amara would also be a good choice.
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 April 2014 - 12:15
Woo, go mom ! ... and what a spineless creep.
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 April 2014 - 10:08
It should be the result of green thumbs minus red thumbs .... And they should have it listed somewhere so we know how the system works... They really should, especially after all the threads that have been started just to "ponder" the issue!
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 April 2014 - 13:09
This explains so much...
Gentle
265
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 April 2014 - 12:27
Beautiful ! Thank you for sharing TB.
Gentle
265
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 April 2014 - 11:11
Turkey?
Gentle
265
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 April 2014 - 10:41
What is your opinion on this quote by a driving instructor : "If you are driving and see a bicycle, a taxi or a car with (enter emirate) plates- Honk! Because even if they haven't done anything stupid yet, odds are they're thinking about it." This had me laughing so hard at the time
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 April 2014 - 10:35
Oh wow. The comments! *wipes tears* =")
Gentle
265
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 April 2014 - 10:01
Have you tried seeing a chiropractor? The California Chiropractic Medicine Center in DHCC is good. <em>edited by Gentle on 10/04/2014</em>
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 April 2014 - 09:41
Good to hear Sal. Thank you for the update!
Gentle
265
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 April 2014 - 09:39
Anything from Harrods seems to be a hit
Gentle
265
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 April 2014 - 09:38
Umm, how come there aren't any desserts? Ok, here are mine: Mushroom Soup Mashed Potato scrambled eggs- weird, I know Hot out of the oven cookies
 
 
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