gunpowder13 | ExpatWoman.com
 

gunpowder13

87
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 31 March 2016 - 23:55
Hi Try Kent International Removals. This was the one we used for coming back from Perth to UK three years ago though but as they are international, they should have a branch here. Extremely good service, well packed and reasonably well priced. Good luck! :)
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Latest post on 21 March 2016 - 21:27
Hello there Dally Glad to hear you are doing really well! However much organic food I buy, that doesn’t stop me having migraines or trigeminal neuralgia, but that’s another story. Next time I go to the Spinneys or Carrefour, I must check if Oral B toothpaste is ‘paraben free’. Take care.
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Latest post on 20 March 2016 - 20:42
Hi Dally I have just replied in the other post on 'you are what you eat and use'. My sincere apologies as I said that you have been diagnosed with cancer and now you are recovering. That is so wonderful!! Again, I apologise profusely as I have started writing here. xx
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Latest post on 20 March 2016 - 20:03
Hi dally Sorry to hear that you have been diagnosed with cancer. You sound strong and positive though, enough to write to help others when you could be concentrating on yourself. That’s very unselfish, thoughtful and caring. Thank you so much for sharing with us on this page. Parabens How do I find out whether the cosmetics I am using have got parabens in it? Lately, I have had time to think about our eating habits, although I have been buying organic on and off. But something caught my eye the other day. Canned tomatoes I didn’t realise the danger of using canned tomatoes until I read that the lining of the tomato cans contain bisphenol–A or BPA. Some of this BPA goes into the food, and also the acidity of the tomatoes can have an effect on health problems. From then onwards, it was fresh tomatoes and organic ones at that. Tap water I know this has nothing to do with food or cosmetic but I need to ask. When I first came here, I was boiling tap water to drink until I mentioned it at coffee mornings and now we are using bottled water. But how long do we reckon that the bottled water have been sitting out in the heat in Dubai before it reaches the shop? Does it matter where you live? In a house or an apartment? Just wondered what the pipes are like when the water reaches your kitchen taps. Can you test your water for E-coli? I recently moved up to Scotland and there is spring water coming from the hills. I wasn’t totally convinced about the safety so I continued to boil my water. My husband said what could possibly go wrong when the water is coming from the borehole below ground? Our hamlet is being taken care of by a factors company and sure enough, one of the neighbours asked if the water has been checked for E-Coli and other impurities. Anyway, the water has been tested and any impurities removed. It wasn’t cheap. Keep well and take care of yourself. x
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 March 2016 - 14:58
The main lessons for me are to understand a country’s history. Every country and its people are affected by their history and culture. Knowing about the past history of the country you are visiting helps you to appreciate and understand their culture. It can give you an edge on how to react to people, how to approach/talk, how to behave/dress. At the end of the day, it’s respect for the country and its people whether we agree with their opinions and values or not. I certainly need confidence in driving here…. and oh yes, neither is Australia any greener. Yes, an absolute nuisance without a letterbox!
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Latest post on 17 March 2016 - 14:19
How very sad. I have always enjoyed his shows. Sleep well, Paul.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 March 2016 - 23:29
Hi Eajia Whereabouts are you thinking of going - here or abroad? Al Ain is about an hour's drive from here and there are a number of hotels in booking com. Choose a hotel that has all inclusive or is family-oriented. We stayed in a hotel that has a Shopping Mall and Food Court next to it. Pool, steam room, jacuzzi. One thing I observed was that there are water puddles everywhere when you come out from these Spa Rooms and pool, so be careful. I can't remember the name of the hotel. But there are loads of other nice hotels around Al Ain. The National Museum should keep your children occupied for a little while if they are not too small and like a bit of history of the UAE. and next to the museum, is the Oasis, Unfortunately, I didn't go as we ran out of time. Perhaps Muscat or Abu Dhabi? I heard Yas Island is great. I have yet to go there. Look up booking.com :)
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 March 2016 - 22:37
Hi airashiii Glad you have worked this out! My husband and I went to Madikwe River Lodge probably in 2009. I have looked through again and yes, I recognise the suites, pool etc. I have also read the reviews in tripadvisor and there are some very good reviews and some not so good reviews. I note also there are quite a few lodges around in Madikwe itself (75,000 ha), so do shop around until you are 100% sure. But if we ever had the chance to return to a ‘malaria free’ game reserve, would we choose Madikwe River Lodge again? Yes, we would. Have a safe journey. :)
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 March 2016 - 14:50
Hi hangulz Try Grow Gorgeous Hair Serum but I am not sure where to buy this here except on line. I got it on board my flight with British Airways. Using this for a month now and have noticed there are less hair strands on the bathroom floor. Good luck.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 March 2016 - 22:14
Hi goodytwoshoes I endeavour to try to make sure I get my facts right before I write them. The visa problems can be an utter nuisance to visitors but not as much as what we had experienced back in 2010 when we were visiting Victoria Falls, Zambia/Zambesi River, Botswana. Our visas were outrageously expensive! My husband and I only knew this after we landed and had to pay more at customs. It’s all politics. The British had to pay more than the American visitors, All in all, much better now. Hopefully, this will be the same with SA. Safe journey and Bon voyage! bye:
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 March 2016 - 16:51
Hi dindin Try Neem Oil. I have picked two paragraphs from the link below. I was using it briefly for three weeks, not for dandruff but for thinning hair. I will soon be going bald! With Neem Oil, you land up with beautiful, shiny hair. The not so good point about Neem Oil, is the smell. As it’s left on my hair for a number of hours, I couldn’t stand it. Please read the details below as you can also mix it with a few drops of lavender, ylang ylang or coconut oil. You can get a very small bottle of Neem Oil in Neal’s Yard. If not, as one of the ladies said, get advice from a doctor. http://www.hairbuddha.net/benefits-of-neem-oil-for-hair/ 3. Helps with dandruff and itching Neem oil is effective against several human fungi including candida, which is one of the major cause of dandruff. Also when you have dandruff there is some underlying inflammation going on that makes the scalp red and irritated. Inevitably, neem oil will take care of everything as along with anti-fungal properties, it also has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects that help with redness and scalp irritation.Use this potent oil to get rid of dandruff or even as preventive measure, in case you are prone to getting it 4. Relieves Eczema symptoms Eczema or dermatitis is an inflammatory skin condition characterized by itchy, dry, red, flaking and crusting skin. Nimbidin, an anti-inflammatory substances in the neem acts similar to non-steroidal drug (phenylbutazone) and helps reduce the redness and irritation. In addition, neem oil is rich in fatty acids and glycerides that easily penetrates the outer layers of the skin, and restores the protective barrier, thus preventing the moisture loss. Neem is also a strong analgesic (pain-killer). So, it will bring relief from the excruciating discomfort caused by dry itchy eczema skin. And its strong antiseptic and antibacterial…….. http://www.discoverneem.com/neem-oil-hair.html Good luck. :)
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 March 2016 - 12:19
Hi silveralex How about Al Ain?. I think about 1.5 to 2 hour drive. Hotels nearby. One sight seeing you could see which I highly recommend is the Al Ain National Museum. Well illustrated history of the UAE. Go into booking.com for hotels. :)
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 March 2016 - 23:04
Hi goodytwoshoes/sheikhandbake Found the following article dated the 7th Jan 2016 in the Daily Mail. [i'>It was supposed to be a dream holiday for Joshua Brookes, but he was turned away by Emirates staff at Manchester Airport on Christmas Eve because his mum wasn’t carrying the long version of his birth certificate……... [/i'> http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/travel_news/article-3381894/Family-s-dream-Christmas-holiday-South-Africa-ruined-schoolboy-barred-boarding-flight-strict-child-trafficking-laws.html bye:
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 March 2016 - 22:11
Hi Zdubai Thank you. I have learnt something about the visa. My husband was working then in Cape Town thus a permanent visa, so I thought tourist visas still applies and is straightforward. The only thing I noticed from UK is that from 1stJune 2015, all parents travelling with children, under 18 years of age to/from South Africa must produce an unabridged birth certificate for each child which shows details/names of both parents of the child. Hi debliz Arh, thank you for confirming the whale season. I thought it was from September to December. Yes, everywhere you go there are festivals. Too many wine estates. In Fairview, Paarl, there is also cheese and wine pairing. bye: Believed the cancelled the birth certificate requirement because tourism to South Africa came to an abrupt halt and many, many people were being rejected at immigration and sent home. Can you tell me where you got this information from? Seems from the South African Department of Home Affairs and SA Airways websites this requirement is still in place? Am travelling there soon with kids and will bring the birth certificates anyway, but can't find this written anywhere. Thanks.:confused: Hi goodytwoshoes I am so sorry I should have given out this link with my message. www.dha.gov.za It gives you all the details. Didn't mean to frighten you. :(
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 March 2016 - 22:32
Hi Zdubai Thank you. I have learnt something about the visa. My husband was working then in Cape Town thus a permanent visa, so I thought tourist visas still applies and is straightforward. The only thing I noticed from UK is that from 1stJune 2015, all parents travelling with children, under 18 years of age to/from South Africa must produce an unabridged birth certificate for each child which shows details/names of both parents of the child. Hi debliz Arh, thank you for confirming the whale season. I thought it was from September to December. Yes, everywhere you go there are festivals. Too many wine estates. In Fairview, Paarl, there is also cheese and wine pairing. bye:
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 March 2016 - 10:07
Proverbs 31:10 An excellent wife who can find? She is far more precious than jewels. 11 The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. 12 She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life. 13 She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands. 14 She is like the ships of the merchant; she brings her food from afar. 15 She rises while it is yet night and provides food for her household and portions for her maidens. 16 She considers a field and buys it; with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard. 17 She dresses herself[e'> with strength and makes her arms strong. 18 She perceives that her merchandise is profitable. Her lamp does not go out at night. 19 She puts her hands to the distaff, and her hands hold the spindle. 20 She opens her hand to the poor and reaches out her hands to the needy. 21 She is not afraid of snow for her household, for all her household are clothed in scarlet.[f'> 22 She makes bed coverings for herself; her clothing is fine linen and purple. 23 Her husband is known in the gates when he sits among the elders of the land. 24 She makes linen garments and sells them; she delivers sashes to the merchant. 25 Strength and dignity are her clothing, and she laughs at the time to come. 26 She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue. 27 She looks well to the ways of her household and does not eat the bread of idleness. 28 Her children rise up and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praises her: 29 “Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all.” 30 Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. 31 Give her of the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the gates. :cool:
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 March 2016 - 21:02
Try this…. but it's not cheap. http://www.origins.co.uk/cms/skincare/index.tmpl?cm_sp=Gnav-_-Skincare-_-Landing
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 March 2016 - 16:20
You are welcome airashiii We were in a 16 seater Cessna, approximately 45 minutes from Johannesburg to Madikwe, passing Sun City We were only there for two nights as it's luxurious and quite expensive actually. Besides, you can go out three times a day (if you wish) with the guide. You will need an anorak or warm clothes as it can be chilly first thing in the morning. But there are blankets in the jeep. I think the first trip is at 0600. You get tea or coffee with biscuits before heading out with the guides in the 4 x 4 (some times longer and higher trucks) and when finished, you have breakfast in the bushes including proper toilets. A very pleasant surprise. Don't worry, all very safe. We manage to see all the Big Five! Before I forget, there's plenty of drinks and snacks at sundown if you choose the last trip of the day. :)
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 March 2016 - 12:32
Oh, I forgot, you can have wine tasting in Constantia. Not too far to drive from Cape Town. www.theconstantiawinetour.co.za From here you should be able to choose your restaurant. Some of them are within the wine estate itself. Best to book as if it is weekend, you will not be able to get a space as most Capetonians are out dining! Re accommodation in Gansbaai. Try www.aatravel.co.za If these are too expensive I can look for others. x :cool:
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 March 2016 - 12:12
Hi airshiii Sorry for the delay. I am so slow in my reply! I think it is about right for the amount for your total budget. About AED1000 per day. The non-malarial safari is http://www.madikwegamereserve.co.za/accommodation/madikwe-river-lodge/ You have to take a very short flight from Johannesburg straight to Madikwe. You start your journey as soon as you land as you will be met by the professional guide as soon as you touch down. All the 4 x4 jeep for guests will be waiting for all flights coming in. Have not come across DysArt Hotel near the V &A Waterfront but it’s a great place to be for everything. Restaurants, bars, souveniers, bookshops, cafes. Some lovely coffee bars. My husband and I are certain that whale watching are mostly from September but we could be wrong. Strangely enough, I celebrated my birthday in May too! Both our birthdays are in May! Enjoy your trip. bye:
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 March 2016 - 22:05
Hi airashiii When is it you are thinking of going to Cape Town and Gansbaai? Are you thinking of going now that is autumn or waiting when it’s summer again? My husband and I have been to Gansbaai to stay at a guesthouse along the seaside but not for shark diving. There is also Hermanus nearby. Can you give me an rough idea of budget? How far are you prepared to travel? Paarl or Franschhoek (50/55km to Cape Town) is in the Cape Winelands and is a much better place to stay. You should be able to do day trips into Cape Town. Franschhoek is famous for its culinary restaurants. Wine estates everywhere that is if you like wines. These places are in the Western Cape and is considered to be much safer than the Eastern Cape. How you go each day, when and where determines your safety. Would you prefer a non-malarial safari instead of Kenya? :)
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 March 2016 - 17:37
Hi Silverstet Thank you. I must remember At.mosphere. Burj Khalifa for future. bye:
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Latest post on 05 March 2016 - 13:10
My High Tea experience was at Swissotel Merchant Court, Ellenborough Market Cafe, Singapore. I have yet to experience anything here in Dubai. But just like to wish all MUMS everywhere a very HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY. :flower::flower:
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 March 2016 - 13:01
Hi happ1 Of course you are not rambling! How strange! I was born in Penang many years ago but have been away so many years now so can only give you information on what knowledge I know and have experience of. I had to explain re the tips on GST (govt sales tax) as I bought a few items from Selangor Pewter. Correction on one point. At the check in is Land side and that’s where I purchased my goods. When I reached Airside to claim for my GST, they wanted the missing form then. The sales girl was asked to bring the form from Landside to Airside. I was embarrassed for all the fuss made but I did purchase a few items. No problem at Dubai airport here as you have these in your luggage. I almost forgot. If you are staying at E & O Hotel, they don't do laundry. Have a safe trip! x
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Latest post on 04 March 2016 - 20:58
Hi DoubtingThomas I am very observant. Nothing to worry about. :)
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 March 2016 - 20:18
Dear happ1 I am SO late, you have booked your hotel now. Never mind. But some info below, maybe for other readers. Ignore the ones you are not interested. My husband and I stayed at the G Hotel, Gurney Drive in Penang in 2013. At that time, there was a good deal for the executive rooms where you can have cocktails and canapés each evening before sunset. If you decide to choose this level, you can also have buffet breakfast although there are more choices on the ground floor. Next to the hotel is the Gurney Plaza. In the evening you can walk along Gurney Drive (next to the sea) and go to one of the hawker stalls. All within walking distance. Shopping. Selangor Pewter. A tip for you. If you buy anything that you are going to claim back the VAT equivalent, make sure you have a form/note from the shop as the receipt do not count. Otherwise you can still buy it airside in KL airport but still need that note from the retail shop. For the beach at Batu Ferringhi. I stayed at Rasa Sayang Resort and Spa last October. This is part of the Shangri-la group and has its own beach. Buffet breakfast. I gave it an eight out of 10. Not as good as One World Hotel in PJ where the buffet was almost perfect. E & O Hotel. A colonial-times hotel where the doorman wears a traditional colonial dress with pith helmet. Some rooms a wee bit small. Convenient if you wish to walk to the local shops in Penang Road. Hotel’s next to the sea. Afternoon tea? I prefer the one at Raffles in Spore. Sama Sama Hotel at the KL Intl airport is a good one to stay overnight if you have an early flight to catch back. Booking.com or agoda.com Have a super trip. x
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 02 March 2016 - 15:19
nastya13 I don't know how to bring your message to mine to reply but so glad you enjoyed it too!! I would like to add that its wonderful that EW arranges outings for members and non-members. On another matter. I took it for granted that we all go to Coffee Mornings every now and then. On the return from the golf outing, I shared a taxi with someone from UK who prefers not to attend Coffee Mornings. Why is this? Distance? Costs? Clicky group(s)? Prefers their own company? I tend to do that. Stay in, listen to Dubai Eye, keep up with correspondence, go to the gym, go shopping and pretend I am overwhelmed with housework!! In the long run, it’s best to get out there and meet people. Anyone agree? So thank you to Expat Woman for arranging outings to get interested women out and about!
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 02 March 2016 - 14:17
All depends on your budget and your taste buds. I love Rang Mahal. This is Indian cuisine by Atul Kochhar. It’s in J W Marriott Marquis on the Sheik Zayed Road. For a more contemporary, European and French taste, there’s Al Muntaha at the Burj Al Arab. It was our daughter’s birthday and she had a beautiful surprise! Beautiful views. For an average meal buffet, Kitchen6, also in JW Marriott, was great for us. You could always ask if they can provide a private room. It’s a buffet so it’s self-service. Remember, to go on an empty stomach. We didn’t so was unable to try all six kitchens. Have a super birthday! xx :balloon:
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Latest post on 28 February 2016 - 15:51
Lol! Perth too hot, I know that feeling, spent yesterday down beach and think I've got sunstroke! Can't believe we moan about Perth heat when we have experienced Dubai heat when it has reached nearly 50! All great points, bottom line is DH will have to adjust to travelling either often for Dubai or long haul for UK/Oz. we have our citizenship now so no issues there. Thought of UK depresses me, kids have grown up mainly here and Dubai and thrive on outdoor lifestyle. Can't imagine their weekends in winter being TV due to rain for 6 months of year (west coast Scotland) They will adjust, as usual. All we want it to put down some foundations but nature of DH work has always been boom and bust (construction) I want a crystal ball ? We are doing something similar. Returned from Oz and decided Scotland is lovely. So moved from down south in England to Scotland! Then coming here thinking everything should be fine. Afraid it isn’t. My husband is also in construction with lots of cuts (over 400). In fact every week, there were cuts. We shrug our shoulders as its only two of us. Kids have grown up. We have been here nine months. If anything happens, it happens. :lol:
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Latest post on 27 February 2016 - 20:13
Helloo FairyDust has made a very good point. The following is just my opinion. Pros in Dubai It’s nearer to UK to see family and for the whole family when it comes to Christmas etc. Health care through company. Cons Small percentage of children’s education paid for or none at all. Pros in Jeddah All of you are together. Cons Wear an abaya over your clothes?(I haven’t been there only my husband). Pros in UK Free education unless you want to send your kids to private schools. You are near your family. Free health care. Costs of food cheaper than Dubai or Australia. Cons Bad weather due to climate change. Again, the distance. You and family won’t see their Dad three months in a row but not as far away as Oz. Pros in Australia Free education? Great climate. The children still continue with their school/university life (assuming you have permanent residency). Subsidised health care. Cons The distance again. My husband and I left Australia three years ago. He was paid a very good salary in a permanent job but after a year, he decided that it was too hot for us in Perth. So here we are, just as hot, huh!!! Good luck with your decision. Not an easy one.
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Latest post on 25 February 2016 - 15:28
Another special thanks goes to Lynn one of the organisers. I don't know who the rest of the organisers are, but I am sure those ladies who attended would like to join me in thanking everyone involved in this Golf Event. I wasn't paying much attention but I thought everyone dressed appropriately for golf. What was amazing was my team of four had a hole in one, all in the same hole as well! Here's me who hardly play or know much about golf to play. xx
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 February 2016 - 16:46
Ladies! I forgot to add that its another 150 AED for blow drying after a hair cut. Most of the time I opt out of this as I have short hair. Besides my hair dries very quickly. Of course you would want your hair properly blow dried if you are going out for the day/evening.
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Latest post on 22 February 2016 - 13:44
Hello I highly recommend my hair stylist Jacques La Coupe. A hair cut is 300 AED , a colour is 400 AED. Highlights are from 500 to 700 AED. I was recently home to UK and have had to go to the doctors to see about my thinning hair. I was saying to my GP that perhaps I was lacking zinc or iron in my diet but at the bottom of all these, I know the problem: stress. Absolutely nothing to do with my hairdresser I can assure you. Also, I have had the filter changed twice in the shower. Then my GP had a quick look at my scalp. Her next remark took me by surprise. ‘Oh wow, whoever coloured your hair for you has done it very well!’.
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Latest post on 18 January 2016 - 17:25
Hi I know this is quite old but Lulu have just started online grocery. Not full stock ie no fresh other than dairy but it works in Al raha gardens! Oh thank you Aillac. I shall give Lulu a try in Dubai.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 December 2015 - 21:50
Hi, We have the eLife package. Phone, tv and unlimited data package. Price comes around 360 AED every month. We just connect our laptop to our tv and watch youtube and new movies online. Thank you so much veneta6 It certainly saves a lot of money! After all, there are only two of us. Thank you also to sheikhandbake for your previous reply.
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Latest post on 19 December 2015 - 21:10
We are thinking of getting rid of our OSN. No one watches it anymore - when I have time to sit and watch it, there is never anything on! It's now just easier to down load movies and tv - and you are right that the amount you are paying is astronomical. You are absolutely right there. Apart from the Sports Channel and the British Open Golf that my husband watches, the only channels for me are food eg. Masterchef Australia and cookery programmes. I am however, not subscribed to BBC Lifestyle which has other food programmes.
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Latest post on 27 July 2015 - 19:17
Hi, I have recently moved to Dubai from India Mumbai. Its been a month& i have lost half the volume of my hair. I am feeling very depressed and concerned. I have been told its coz of the water here. Can some one pls suggest how to take care of my hair & stop the hair fall. I have been here almost two months now. I have the same problems with failing hair. I thought it was to do with the desalinated water. Anyway, my husband has just had a filter put in. I can tell the difference in the water immediately. We got the filter from United Pharmacy in the Mall of the Emirates. From Day One, I have been boiling the water, cool down and drinking it. Maybe I will get used to the taste. Hope you will have the filter change pretty soon. Now that I am on-line, I just want to say 'thank you' to the two ladies for which part of town to reside in temporarily before we arrived in Dubai. Either Dubai Marina or Jumeriah. My apologies for the belated thank you.