kitten67 | ExpatWoman.com
 

kitten67

kitten67
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Latest post on 25 April 2017 - 11:56
I would definitely pass. The salary is not sustainable here in Dubai - you would have very little left over after rent, food, transport and bills. Also employer sounds v unprofessional. Re accommodation International city is opposite end of Dubai and fairly dodgy on your own. It would not be convenient for this job anyway. I would look on Dubizzle for somewhere for flatshare in TECOM if I were you. I would hold out for something else. Dubai is not a place to get into financial difficulties with an unsupportive employer.
kitten67
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Latest post on 25 April 2017 - 11:52
Contact MPAC sports
kitten67
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Latest post on 22 March 2017 - 14:20
Springs is full of families and could be a good option.
kitten67
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Latest post on 04 January 2017 - 13:15
Absolutely! You will get a great SUV for that budget and wont need to spend it all. Most of the dealerships also have used cars or demo cars for sale which come with inspection and guarantee if you are nervous about private purchase. However, I have purchased around 3 used cars (1- 2 years old) through Dubizzle over the years and never had an issue. If you are not buying an older car you may be able to buy with service contract included etc... You will have a good selection for your budget!
kitten67
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Latest post on 07 December 2016 - 14:22
Music Hall or Gemayze
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Latest post on 29 November 2016 - 11:26
You can get them custom made in Satwa for around AED200
kitten67
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Latest post on 24 October 2016 - 13:04
Im shocked by this so much! Its 2016 people.... her medication is her personal business. If she is active in her free time ...she is a grown woman and is obviously being sensible. OMG - she is not a cat you need to neuter! She is a real life woman! I would be embarrassed to admit I looked through her personal belongings. She is employed to do her job. She is not your under age daughter! If you want to confront her...I honestly don't know how you can make it sound reasonable.
kitten67
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 October 2016 - 11:24
Hi We stayed at the Hilton before (I think it is Iru Fushi or something like that) and it was pretty good for kids. For the water bungalows - they wouldn't let us book with children under 12, so check that out when you book. We had a beach bungalow which was lovely. Enjoy your trip
kitten67
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 October 2016 - 15:17
Expat packages are rare these days. Most people just get monthly gross salary and then you decide how much to spend on housing, school, car et. .Most companies do give medical cover and partial dental cover for management. Some senior positions will pay school fees on top of salary - he really needs to try for that at least. AED50k would not be enough if company not paying schooling and accommodation. Example: 4 bed villa AED200k approx. Primary school fees 2 x AED40k approx. Secondary 2 x 80k approx. None of these are payable monthly out of salary. School he needs to pay termly in advance. Rent in 2 or 3 cheques in advance per year. So if company not covering school and housing you will need to come out with money or take a loan which I wouldn't advise......food for thought!
kitten67
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 October 2016 - 14:00
Its illegal. Some maids pay someone to sponsor them so they can work freelance for multiple people. However, if you hire such a person you are eligible for fine and have no security. Don't do it. Sponsor your own maid or get part time help via an agency
kitten67
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 October 2016 - 13:48
Hi. We live in villa in Al Safa. Its a 3 bed with large garden (not in a compound). Our DEWA can be AED1500 in winter up to AED3000 max in mid summer. If you have a private garden you may want to pay a gardener to cut the grass and water plants. This is not expensive say AED300 per month. Other than that, I don't imagine there would be any other costs versus an apartment. apartment DEWA may be slightly lower but it wouldn't be a deciding factor. I would recommend staying in a villa if you have kids. If you can get on a compound with a pool even better - there are many around. Shopping and facilities in the area are great - many supermarkets, doctor, hospital, dentist, hairdressers, laundry etc. Everything is nearby and you are very close to the beach. Similarly you are 2 minutes from SZR highway to head anywhere.
kitten67
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 October 2016 - 09:52
Its illegal. You can only have someone from a cleaning company or a maid sponsored by you. If you hire this lady illegally cash in hand to clean your place and she robs you or something goes wrong at home, you wont have a leg to stand on. YOU will be liable for a fine. Not worth it. Contact Dubai Housekeeping or Pretty Polly Cleaning for good quality LEGAL part time cleaning
kitten67
456
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 October 2016 - 09:48
Another vote for Saniservice. Very professional and worth every dirham.
kitten67
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 28 September 2016 - 11:34
Hi I have heard good things about TribeFit in Marina. If you like HIIT type classes my number 1 recommendation would be Circuit Factory classes. Very social- great fun and results. Nearest classes to you would be in Springs/Meadow and you only pay per class. Check out their website and FB
kitten67
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 September 2016 - 10:38
Privilee is great. Check out their website. This gives you access to a number of different hotel pools and beaches and gyms across Dubai - some really good ones there - Waldorf Astoria, Mina Seyahi, Habtoor, Sofitel, Kempinski etc.. We have had a membership for around 6 months now and have loved trying out the different places. Highly recommended...
kitten67
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 September 2016 - 07:54
Ahh Romy and Michele!
kitten67
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Latest post on 02 September 2016 - 08:15
AXA Can complete online quickly, good customer service and response, agency repairs, roadside assistance etc. When I had to claim they were very quick and i had a rental car until repair was finished. They are not the cheapest but for service they are great.
kitten67
456
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 September 2016 - 15:58
Check souq.com they have GHD, Babyliss, Braun etc
kitten67
456
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 September 2016 - 15:56
If you go in to one of the bigger hair salons, they usually have good quality straighteners for sale. I have Cloud 9 and think they are better than GHD. Try Pastels,Maria Dowling, Hairworks etc
kitten67
456
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 31 August 2016 - 12:32
Hi Many of my daughters classmates live there and the families are happy. It is a great location very central - close to shops, beach, highway and park. I live a couple of streets away and love living in Safa. Spinneys and Park and Shop supermarkets are very close as well as many small grocery stores. There are lots of families in the area as there are a few schools nearby - JPS, JC, EC etc. Overall I would recommend. the area. Arabian Ranches is also lovely and I know many people happy there too. It is not as far out as you think especially if you find schools nearby.
kitten67
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 28 August 2016 - 07:27
Daiso
kitten67
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 August 2016 - 12:08
I have seen in Park and Shop before
kitten67
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 August 2016 - 12:06
Hi. At the beginning they will get sick from time to time. But then they build up resistance which means they hardly get sick when older and at school. When they are sick you cannot send them to nursery. If they have a fever or anything contagious like eye infection etc they will ask you to come and collect them and not return until child is better. This is where you need a flexible job. In first year at nursery when my daughter was sick for a day or 2 ,I would take leave or my husband and I would take turns each. We both have jobs that allow us to work from home so that was also a good solution. If you don't have a flexible employer, then you really need a nanny at home to cover when child is sick. Maybe you could consider paying for 2 or 3 days at nursery and having nanny at home also. She could do housework when child at nursery and babysit when he is at home? I wouldn't hire an hourly babysitter to take care of my sick child. If they are sick and upset they need to be with someone they know like parents or full time nanny. You have to find best solution for you and your family but definitely make sure you have some cover options for the sick days...
kitten67
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 09 August 2016 - 16:07
I don't think there are camps after 25th as many schools start back on 28th.
kitten67
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 June 2016 - 11:03
I have not bothered with an international licence for the past 10 years. We have rented cars in UK, USA, France, Italy, Portugal etc with our UAE licence with no issue. As it is in English it is accepted. I wouldn't bother...
kitten67
456
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 16 June 2016 - 10:42
Hi I have heard excellent feedback on Safa Community School. We are at the other Safa school and many families we knew who lived AR side switched across to SCS due to location. when it opened They are all very happy with the facilities, teaching and the community feel of the school, I also have friends in AR who send their kids to Gems Metropole school in Motor City and are happy. This was new lasr year and everyone now seems to be settled it. In the end you have to choose what feels right for you. If you can try to visit in person before making a final choice.
kitten67
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 June 2016 - 11:13
Good luck I am sure you will find something. Lots of people leaving end of June for sure, We sacrificed the pool for location as the house was so spacious and walking distance to Spinneys and Park n Shop. Kite beach is 5 mins down the hill too. There are kids in 4 of the 8 houses in our street at the moment and they often play together. There are definitely compounds with pools nearby but think the price is slightly higher. Good luck!!
kitten67
456
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 June 2016 - 10:14
There is an empty villa in my complex. It is not a traditional compound with pool - just 8 spacious 3 bed villas in a little lane in Safa 1. Close to Spinneys Villas and gardens are spacious and price is under your budget. Maintenance is usually good. Agent is Potential Real Estate (recently changed used to be owned by NBAD) YOUSEF ABOU DAOUD Sales Executive Business Development Dept. Member 056 7249840 DUBAI : OFFICE : 00971 4 298 1001
kitten67
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 June 2016 - 09:40
It sounds about right... I tried invisalign and didn't persevere with it as couldn't get used to it.Other people have had great success. I do presentations and have quite a high profile job and just felt too self conscious and my speech affected. I was paying in instalments as I replaced each set of braces and just stopped after about the 4th set. I spent money on veneers instead and was happier! I think invisalign is good if you only have minor adjustment required to the teeth and you can get comfortable wearing it to sleep in and all day.
kitten67
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 June 2016 - 09:35
I bought one and have just not had time to use it. I think it is good but you need to be able to regularly spend time doing it. I think it is easy to treat another person but a bit tricky getting used to doing it yourself.
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 June 2016 - 09:44
Check out circuit factory. Lovely people and locations across Dubai. Tough workouts but always fun and challenging. They have a website and FB group
kitten67
456
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 31 May 2016 - 16:46
Agree with Clairehdp - access to Arabian Ranches and surrounding areas has improved greatly. Definitely worth a look....
kitten67
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 31 May 2016 - 06:40
I am not sure what you are looking for in terms of rooms and budget. Check on Propertyfinder for some examples https://www.propertyfinder.ae/en/rent/dubai/properties-for-rent-jumeirah-jumeirah-3.html Splendour villas are next to me and very nice but there are many good compounds around
kitten67
456
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 30 May 2016 - 15:50
Honestly don't underestimate how much of a difference it makes having school closer to home.... Long school journeys are also very tiring for kids in this heat. DESS is a great school but very far for your little one. Do you both work Marina side of town?
kitten67
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 30 May 2016 - 14:36
I would try Jumeira, Umm Suqeim area. Close to beach and shops and beach and also not far from work for your husband. Schools wise you could try Gems Wellington International (straight down the highway would be a quick drive) JBS (if you live in Jumeira) DIA (bit of a longer drive but again mostly highway) If you go for BC then plenty of options in that area - JPS, JC etc But if you like the Lakes, it is not a long drive to Business Bay as there are many new roads now. Then you could still go for DIA, DBS etc Good luck
kitten67
456
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 May 2016 - 12:47
Health Bay Polyclinic are very good for this
kitten67
456
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 May 2016 - 10:53
I also wanted a good mirror for make up in my bathroom. Best option was IKEA. You buy the plain cheap rectangular mirror and then 2 or 4 of these side lights. If your dressing table is near a wall light, get an electrician to wire it for you. Very simple and quick. (Call Jimll Fix it if you don't have a handy friend). It is a brilliant light and the glow from the bulbs is just right http://www.ikea.com/gb/en/catalog/categories/departments/bathroom/20490/ Saw this on amazon too but still pricey https://www.amazon.co.uk/Broadway-Leather-Illuminated-Hollywood-Dressing/dp/B017BUIG20/ref=sr_1_73?s=kitchen&ie=UTF8&qid=1464072660&sr=1-73&keywords=makeup+mirror+with+light I saw amazing make up cases on a stand with built in mirrors in one of the malls here the other day but cant remember where. It may have been Debenhams or Harvey Nics. I always find that Lifestyle is worth a look for make up accessories like cases and mirrors too. Check there ...
kitten67
456
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 May 2016 - 16:36
In future get your parcels sent to your office. Or even better invest in a Shop and Ship account - check Aramex site online. This gives you a UK address for your mum to send parcels and then they will deliver to your door in Dubai. Not expensive and great for online shopping too! For this parcel, once it arrives here (allow at least 2 - 3 weeks) go and check at the central post office. Sometimes they will keep parcels there for a period of time which are missing the PO BOX. If your mums parcel has a tracking number you could also check on the emiratespost website. They are also very helpful on the phone - worth a shot!
kitten67
456
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 May 2016 - 10:02
Hi I received an invitation to the opening on 10 May (through the Amber card programme with Al Tayer) but sadly wasn't able to go. I am dying to go and stock up on Madder Root shampoo..... Love Aveda products.... So it should be open.... Check Galleria Mall facebook page
kitten67
456
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 May 2016 - 13:46
Check online. Amazon uk have loads - many around the GBP20- GBP30 range if you have an Aramex shop and ship account it will cost you very little (AED43 usually to ship from UK) So you an get full thing for around AED200 Locally I would check Toys R Us, Baby Shop and even some of large supermarkets like C4 or Lulu where you may just be lucky.
kitten67
456
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 09 May 2016 - 10:37
Love ADCB and especially their online banking product. (I switched from HSBC about 8 years ago). I almost never visit the branch and do everything online. Transferring overseas - easy in 2 mins once you have set up beneficiary in the system. Also pay all my bills, salik etc. Can transfer between my different accounts easily - local, offshore etc. I have never had any trouble with them at all. I personally have found customer service and responsiveness to be good any time when I have had a query.
kitten67
456
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 09 May 2016 - 09:45
Have you tried adjusting the angle of the vents? Sometimes that can help...... I would also recommend making the room really cold before bed and then keeping the ac on low fan and a temp like 23 or 24 during the night
kitten67
456
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 May 2016 - 07:23
Pass by one of the good salons and you can buy all the Keratase and Redken products. Some do Tigi too Try Pastels Hairworks etc
kitten67
456
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 20 April 2016 - 12:52
Buy a new one Sounds vile...
kitten67
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 20 April 2016 - 07:42
I also wouldn't recommend this plan or Zurich. Read the small print….. I think you are better to talk to an independent Financial Advisor who can offer you a variety of savings plans for 10 year or 15 year term which would fit in with your education timescales. There are a lot of different products in the market from many companies. Some have flexibility enabling you to switch between funds to improve performance e.g. move from China stocks to UK FTSE etc. Many savings plans allow you to decide how much risk you want to take and how you want to split how your savings are invested. Others guarantee a minimum % and guaranteed capital etc When I dealt with Zurich a few years ago I felt they really pushed that Vista plan. Consultant was also not really addressing my concerns and queries properly just trying to sell. However, when I took the proposal away to discuss with my IFA, I found it to be quite rigid, didn't meet my needs and I was paying for cover etc I didn't need. It may suit some people but I think there are many other options…. I would have a look around if I were you….
kitten67
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 18 April 2016 - 09:49
DEWA includes water, electricity and ac The housing fee of 5% will also be on your DEWA bill Other than that the only additional cost vs apartment would be a gardener to maintain your small garden. This is around 250 or 300 per month usually
kitten67
456
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 18 April 2016 - 09:47
I wouldn't worry about security in the villa. You don't need a system - just common sense. Depending on location, most villas have neighbours either side of you facing you and behind you so risk of any break in is low. Just make sure you lock your front and back doors and put piece of wood in bottom of all your patio doors so they cant slide open from outside. We usually leave an exterior light on at night which is also a good deterrent. For the garden - you can hire a good gardener for around AED300 per month. He will handle the watering and grass cutting. On top of that he will let you know if he needs any seeds for planting grass or flowers from time to time which is minimal expense. I thought the same as you when I first moved to a villa but after a couple of days I felt very comfortable.
kitten67
456
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 April 2016 - 14:19
I had a wrought iron bed and 2 outdoor benches made last year. Quality and price was great. I cant remember the name of the company but they have a stand in Barsha Mall with a few sample items on display....
kitten67
456
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 April 2016 - 16:27
Honestly - don't even consider it. I earned that salary about 15 years ago when I was single. It is not a salary to support a family. Even if the salary was double that - I would say think carefully. The cost of living is high here and while there are cheaper options for some things, generally you will spend a lot on day to day expenses. On AED24,000 you would end up getting into debt and be very stressed. It would be horrible to live in Dubai and have absolutely nothing left at end of the month. Its not worth being away from home if you either cants save or enjoy lifestyle here. AED24000 would disappear fast: Rent 10,000 (at least) Groceries 4,000 Car 2,000 School 4,000 (but has to be paid termly in advance) DEWA 1,000 Phone, internet etc 2,000 Other 1,000 this would leave you with zero. So any emergency trips home, doctors visits (most of the time you pay and claim back on insurance), birthdays, outings, clothes, buying stuff for house would need to be funded from somewhere else - savings, credit. Please don't do it. I have seen too many people get into a mess over here as they underestimated the set up costs and were left in debt for years.... Dubai is not a place to live without a good disposable income.
kitten67
456
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 April 2016 - 12:26
I wouldn't recommend Dermacare. They are over aggressive and cut 26 freckles/moles out of me. I looked like I had been shot in the back! (And of course each one cost hundreds of dirhams) When I later saw a second dermatologist she told me that at most I may have needed 3 or 4 removed based on my skin type and other marks. Mole mapping and monitoring is key... I would recommend Dr Julianne Reuter but not sure what clinic she is based at these days...
 
 
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