kitten67 | ExpatWoman.com
 

kitten67

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Latest post on 26 February 2014 - 10:06
Please try Circuit Factory one time. Trial class is free - it is the best thing I ever did in my life! The people there are REAL and care about you and will support you 3 million percent. One of the ladies there has lost 30kg in last 6 months - she was a big girl and is now super fit and healthy. Everyone is thrilled for her - a real inspiration. Check this: http://youtu.be/50pIj9MNOkM The next Challenge starts on Sunday........ Good luck for you whatever you decide to do for your fitness and health. It is great you are committed to making the changes - wish you all the best :)
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Latest post on 25 February 2014 - 13:34
Discounted Fees 2014-15/ Approved Fees FS 1 38,500/ 47,000 FS 2 40,700 / 47,000 Year 1 44,000 / 49,000 Year 2 44,000 / 49,000 Year 3 46,000 / 49,000 Year 4 49,500/ 51,000 Year 5 49,500 / 53,000 Year 6 49,500 / 55,000 Not cheap....
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Latest post on 25 February 2014 - 11:01
TDB - check out the schools forum - there is a lot of info on there. There is also a website for the new school. We are at Safa and it is a fab school - lovely atmosphere and very multicultural. Nice community feel and good parent involvement. New school looks lovely but will be more expensive...... Check the thread in Nurseries and Schools
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Latest post on 10 February 2014 - 16:15
I love pilchards but they are really hard to find here and have never found the Glenryck Brand. The only place I have ever found them is in the larger Choitram stores (Safa) and the only brand they have is Princes. But they are really good.... You have put me in the mood now...........
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Latest post on 03 February 2014 - 15:45
Also agree Dubai Police are great. I have lived in UAE 14 years and every encounter I have had with them has been professional, pleasant and helpful. These guys do a great job in a very busy city! I just wish they would get tough on the carseats for kids next...... <em>edited by kitten67 on 03/02/2014</em>
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Latest post on 03 February 2014 - 13:25
Hi there I was also married in Amalfi coast (Ravello) a few years ago and remember paperwork headache before. Afterwards wasnt so bad.... We didnt do anything at the time. We brought our Italian marriage certificate back to UAE. Didnt bother getting it legalised until years later when we had our daughter. (My husband is not my sponsor). You dont have to personally go to Rome. You can organise through DHL from here. Best thing to do is to go to the Italian Consulate here in Dubai - they are very helpful. They will explain the easiest way to manage the process.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 27 January 2014 - 11:17
If you input "live out maid"in the search bar you will find a few threads on this with plenty of tips and advice. Generally, you have to sponsor the maid and would pay a salary which would cover transport and accommodation on top of the typical salary. This means you are lookignat paying your helper around 3k per month minimum for live out. You can get live out where they are sponsored by an agency. However, the monthly cost may be even more and the maid would only see a fraction of that. Also, the hours would be more fixed as they would pick her up each evening so you wouldnt have same flexibility for babysitting/working late etc. I opted to do it privately instead of through agency and it has worked out great for us. The process is simple once you find the right person.
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Latest post on 23 January 2014 - 14:35
It is best to confirm exact process with immigration - I did it 3 years ago when we hired our nanny and it was straightforward. You definitely dont need any agency. You will need NOC from her current sponsor and their passport copy Check with immigration for what forms have to be filled etc. Best thing is to get your company PRO to manage!
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Latest post on 23 January 2014 - 10:48
I think you will find it difficult to arrange as this is illegal. Maybe you can try one of the agencies......
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Latest post on 23 January 2014 - 10:27
Quicksilver - see the other thread here on losing weight - I wrote a post about clean eating. This would be more realistic for your husband. EVERYONE I know who tried Cambridge etc ended up heavier a few months later....... A gradual lifestyle change is better for his longterm health x
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 January 2014 - 10:24
Exercise is great for your all round health and I would encourage everyone to get at least 20 minutes of quality cardio (heart pumping, sweating - not a leisurely walk) every day. You can do this climbing stairs, walking briskly, jogging, fitness dvd whatever you can fit in. If you have more time there are lots of great classes you could join HOWEVER If you want to lose weight - 80% of it is in the food planning!! You cannot out train a bad diet. Food is key. Rather than diet I would suggest a lifestyle change and aim for "clean" eating. This will lead to a gradual steady weight loss which you can maintain. Regular exercise will help to speed it up. What works for me is: Breakfast - Bran flakes or oats with fruit or eggs and wholemeal toast Snack - piece of fruit - apple or berries are best as less sugar Lunch - lean protein and veg - so chicken salad or tuna salad. Even a sandwich on wholemeal bread is good if you dont have dressing. Other options could be a healthy homemade soup like lentil. Okay to have some carbs if brown - pasta or rice etc- at lunch time if you are exercising and need energy. But small portions... Snack - handful of almonds or fruit or low fat yoghurt Dinner - lean protein and veg - grilled salmon and broccolli, chicken taouk and salad (no olive oil), baked chicken casserole with veg etc. No carbs at dinner as wont get used up. Clean eating is basically: No processed foods Lean proteins Fresh fruit and veg Quality carbs - brown bread rice and pasta, quinoa, pulses Quality fats - avocado, nuts etc No junk. Natural sugar only from fruit and limit to 2 pieces a day I promise you - this works and you will feel full and not as if you are on a diet!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 January 2014 - 13:21
Clean eating is the best thing and is not a diet at all - just a healthy way to eat. There are lots of books available but basically: No junk food Nothing processed Plenty of fruit and vegetables Lean proteins like chicken and fish Brown carbs - all bran, brown bread, brown rice and pasta Healthy fats like avocado, almonds etc Best thing for your body :) <em>edited by kitten67 on 22/01/2014</em>
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 January 2014 - 13:51
Check out Strongmancircuits on FB. The guy who runs it (Jost) is an immense trainer - highly motivational. It is not PT but a small group class ( around 8 people) focusing on strength training. He has 2 locations and you just pay on a per class basis so no gym membership. Lots of girls attend and are in really great shape!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 18 December 2013 - 15:10
Dont use Merchant City Properties - they let out my flat supposedly to professionals only and it was trashed by students
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 18 December 2013 - 15:06
Try in Chelsea Hotel (used to be Rydges Plaza) @ Satwa roundabout on Diyafa Street. There is a perfume shop in the hotel that has so many brands. i managed to find something in there that I couldnt find in any of the standard stores in Dubai. Big selection and cheap. Worth a look......
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 December 2013 - 09:40
I know exactly how you feel! We are in the same boat and this year decided just o get each other a small gift and then go for a nice weekend away in New Year. Here are some gifts i have bought in the past which went down well: DSLR Camera Macbook Running shoes/sports equipment Voucher for boat and fishing trip (he went with 3 friends) Go Pro Camera - good if he is active for diving/biking/offroading etc Smart suitcase/cool laptop bag if he travels on business Diving course BBQ or cooking equipment if he is that way inclined Tickets for concert/event Photobook of you and children Watch box Watch Really good perfume - Tom Ford etc Sunglasses Nice leather shoes Good shirt Good luck - i know how hard it is!!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 16 December 2013 - 15:32
It sounds like its on a case by case basis. I have sponsored our maid for the last 5 years with no issue at all. My husband has changed jobs a few times so I thought it best for me to do the visa. I have always done the visa at Jebel Ali DNRD and found the guys to be really helpful. In fact they were joking with me that I pay my nanny too much until I explained she lives out. (I also have a good PRO which helps!) Factors like your position, salary level and your name on the tenancy contract must help but I think it really does depend who you speak to. Good luck! <em>edited by kitten67 on 16/12/2013</em>
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Latest post on 11 December 2013 - 10:47
I have a similar case (black and silver) which I bought in Lifestyle about a year ago. They usually have a good selection You could also check Debenhams
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Latest post on 05 December 2013 - 15:22
Safa Park 2 is a great venue - not too big. I think you would need to get special permission for Posh Paws but should be doable
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Latest post on 05 December 2013 - 15:17
Many thanks!!
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Latest post on 05 December 2013 - 13:28
Kezzler- how much OJ would you add per bottle of wine?
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 December 2013 - 11:26
Hi Please dont go to ... on Al Wasl. They cut about 26 moles out of my body and IT WAS NOT REQUIRED! I have scars for nothing and it was super expensive. I saw Dr Juliane Reuter afterwards and she was fantastic. Highly recommended. She was at HealthBay Polyclinic before but now at DHCC.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 December 2013 - 10:36
I have the Kindle Fire and love it. What do you mean about downloading from a library? Never heard of that. I download from amazon.com and find prices are really good and lots of daily deals etc
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 December 2013 - 10:36
I have the Kindle Fire and love it. What do you mean about downloading from a library? Never heard of that. I download from amazon.com and find prices are really good and lots of daily deals etc
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 December 2013 - 11:32
Go Sport sometimes have Brooks shoes but dont have a big selection. I usually buy mine via Roadrunner sports online. Prices are great and you get them really quickly via Shop n Ship. Generally this is a great site for sportswear and shoes - selection is much more up to date than Dubai and significantly cheaper.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 03 December 2013 - 08:03
Hi I have a live out maid and its a great option. You have to sponsor her and pay her enough salary to cover transport and accommodation so you are looking at around 3k per month. Legally - no issue at all! Practically the chances of finding a good live out maid are better if you stay in the jumeira area as most of the live out maids tend to live in Satwa or you should live on a good bus route/close to Metro. Nothing to worry about legally as long as you do the sponsorship.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 03 December 2013 - 08:03
Hi I have a live out maid and its a great option. You have to sponsor her and pay her enough salary to cover transport and accommodation so you are looking at around 3k per month. Legally - no issue at all! Practically the chances of finding a good live out maid are better if you stay in the jumeira area as most of the live out maids tend to live in Satwa or you should live on a good bus route/close to Metro. Nothing to worry about legally as long as you do the sponsorship.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 27 November 2013 - 13:08
I think its okay. For somebody very experienced, you may pay a little more. We have a live out who works 5 days and does weekend babysitting. We pay 4k. However she is very mature and experienced - more like a housekeeper/nanny - does all the cooking, organises school uniform and lunches, manages deliveries (water, laundry, gardener etc), makes me shopping lists, helps my daughter after school until we come home. She takes care of the house and pets when we travel and is very reliable. I think you need to base the salary on the experience of the individual. But 3k is definitely reasonable to find someone good. Your location will also be an advantage as many of the ladies live in Satwa/Al Bada.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 27 November 2013 - 12:00
The new school will be located near the Miracle Garden out towards Dubailand
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Latest post on 18 November 2013 - 13:15
Hi Appletiser. A live out maid is 100% legal as long as you sponsor them and provide an accommodation allowance. We have done this for the last 4 years and have no issues doing her visa etc.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 11 November 2013 - 16:31
We are also at Safa school and very happy there. It has a nice community feel and a good mix of kids. It gives kids a very well rounded education . Definitely worth a look.........
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 11 November 2013 - 11:19
Tigerente, what I love about CF is that it is very inclusive. Nobody will judge you or care how big you are or how unfit you are - it is not a posers sort of place. There are people there of all shapes and sizes and fitness levels. Next week would be a great time to try it as there will be many new people in exactly the same position as you. The exercise is quite intensive but you do it at your own pace. You are only competing against yourself - not anyone else in the class. Stop when you need. Have a breath and a drink and then keep at it. Slowly you improve..... In the beginning I struggled - stopped for breaks a lot. When it came to running, I walked half the way and jogged a little. Gradually you walk less and jog more, then run etc. Same with the exercises - I was initially not that agile or strong but you build it up very slowly over time and week after week you pleasantly surprise yourself with the improvements..... The best thing about CF is the trainers who are super supportive - will take time to support you, email you, talk to people individually and guide them. The rest of the people who attend are also really friendly and supportive in person and on the FB group The diet is downloadable on the website - you will definitely lose with that even if you cant make it to the class - 80% is diet and 20% exercise. But give it a try.....if you can go to a class this week to try it (first class always free) you will have an idea of what is involved and can lose your stiffness and then you could sign up for the 4 week challenge starting next Sunday. Maybe i will see you there?? The final thing I would say I learned is that becoming healthy is a journey. You will have good days and bad days with exercise and diet. But you keep at it, keep trying and slowly but surely you will see great results. Good luck ! x <em>edited by kitten67 on 11/11/2013</em>
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Latest post on 11 November 2013 - 09:56
2 words - Circuit Factory They guarantee you 4 kg in 4 weeks if you attend the exercise classes and follow the healthy eating plan. The next challenge starts next Sunday and you can get the first week for free! Check the FB page or the website for more info. I am highly devoted to CF for the last 12 months - it has made a huge difference to my health and fitness. Recommended!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 11 November 2013 - 09:53
The toilet paper in the bin thing makes me want to puke - disgusting! If the toilet paper cant be flushed due to drainage etc then it should be place in a covered sanitised bin not an open waste paper basket and emptied very regularly. But to be honest, if people are using small amounts of paper (and the paper these days is probably recycled, biodegradable etc) then I would imagine in most modern facilities you should be able to flush???
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 11 November 2013 - 09:48
Switched from HSBC to ADCB about 5 years back and so much better! Lower charges, better internet banking product and prompt service for requests. Staff in branch helpful and have "can do" attitude compared to jobsworths elsewhere. ADCB definitely worth a look - I have current account, mortgage, offshore banking and credit card with them and have had no issues with any of these services..
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 11 November 2013 - 08:21
Brains - it may be worth sticking a post on the Bin Kitty FB site. There are lots of cat lovers on there who regularly foster cats until they are adopted. If you explain your situation, someone may offer to help you out if Ginnee is not able. Good luck with your trip and wish you best of health x <em>edited by kitten67 on 11/11/2013</em>
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 November 2013 - 16:06
I am sure you can get cheap colour spray in those shops in Beach Centre. Gulf Greetings or Park and Shop may even have some stuff left from Halloween...
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Latest post on 06 November 2013 - 16:01
I understand what you are looking for but I dont think you will get much of a response as what you are proposing is illegal and a risk for the current employer, the nanny and you. Its a tough one....... Hope you can find a solution...... could you keep your son in nursery occasional afternoons when you have to work? For evenings - maybe a friend could help you out from time to time? Good luck!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 November 2013 - 15:55
Thats the million dollar question! If you really NEED to move, then I dont think its worth waiting - prices are on the rise and if this EXPO2020 is confirmed at end of this month it could get even worse. I think you really need to look around and see what you like. If you want to be close to school and DIC, you are unlikely to find for 90k. If you are prepared to move to Mirdiff you could have more space and greenery but more driving time. Have a look around and a think... Good luck!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 November 2013 - 11:42
I think it is a really bad time to move at the moment. Rents are rising astronomically - you are only protected when renewing existing contracts. LLs can ask what they like for new tenants. I think it is highly unlikely that you will find a spacious 2 bed close to WIS in the budget you indicated. The locations you mention are also quite far out from school and DIC (but still doable). The best thing to do is to have a drive around and identify places you like and suss out the prices. Honestly, I think nowadays you will be struggling to get a nice 2 bed for 90k..... :(
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Latest post on 06 November 2013 - 10:31
Based on your taste I would recommend: Bulgari - Mon Jasmin Noir Lancome - Miracle Estee Lauder - Sensuous the Bulgari would be my first choice. It is sophisticated but still fresh and not overpowering.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 30 October 2013 - 16:40
Out of your choices I also think the Tiguan is the better car. Its a lovely car.However, I do think it is overpriced. So is the Audi Q5 and thats another lovely one! Have you considered the Explorer instead of the Edge - as much better value with loads of options and usually good offers on. Mazda CX9 is also a good value family car and very comfortable if you decide to go bigger. But out of your choices - VW Tiguran would be my pick. Very nice :)
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 October 2013 - 11:57
Wash it with a clarifying shampoo Pantene do a clear looking one (or washing up liquid) but condition really well afterwards. This will help to strip some of the colour faster. You may not still get the result you want and may end up having to go to hairdresser to get it stripped out if you used permanent colour. If it was emi permanent shampooing may work....
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 October 2013 - 11:17
I highly recommed Blossom Nursery - fantastic place! My daughter went to Knightsbridge but then there was a split in management. One partner set up the Blossom nurseries, the other established Kensington nurseries. Knightsbridge closed around 4 years ago.... Blossom has really good facilities, all year programme and provide healthy food for the kids too. We were very happy there. There is one at Umm Al Sheif which would be nearest for you and another branch at Manara. Check their website or facebook. Other options could be Kids Palace and Little Wonders.........
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 October 2013 - 16:32
It really depends what you are looking for. Personally I would prefer Zuma for a "nice" night out where you can get dressed up, have a cocktail and taste amazing food. Really good menu Kiku at Meridien has a really good selection of food too For me Sumbiya is more of a casual place I would go for a cheap midweek dinner very occasionally. My husband likes it but its not a favourite of mine as mainly focusing on BBQing your food and you end up smelling of the cooking! edited by kitten67 on 23/10/2013 <em>edited by kitten67 on 23/10/2013</em>
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Latest post on 23 October 2013 - 11:57
I think you may need to do the pick up yourself during lunch hour and then drop him at your preferred nursery. At our school FS1 kids cannot take the school bus as too little. It may be easier if you defer his place until FS2 and put him in nursery for FS1?? That would buy you more time to sort out a solution. Realistically if you are both working full time you will need to arrange some after school care (most likely a maid or nanny). He will be too old to go to a nursery for after school care soon so you will have to bite the bullet sooner or later. To put it into perspective - school bus can sometimes be around AED1000 a month depending on route!! For another AED1,000 you could have a full time maid at home doing all your housework in the morning and babysitting in the afternoons. Sorry to sound harsh but Dubai is not geared up for after school care like other countries........
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 October 2013 - 10:20
I think it is good if he can get you something you will "use" regularly but is not going to be OTT cost wise. He will be happy when he sees you wearing/using his gift. How about: A nice watch? I have a few GC watches which look much more expensive than they cost. If you have a different taste most of the watch chain stores have nice ones in lots of different styles and price points. Good leather handbag from Massimo Dutti or Debenhams etc Nice pair of earrings - maybe from Cara in Gold and Daimond Park. I have some nice diamond studs which I wear every day. Some trendy quality running shoes if you are into sports - Asics etc Kindle - if you like reading Just some ideas based on things I received which I liked!!
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Latest post on 22 October 2013 - 10:35
Hi there - we have done the Ritz for last 2 years and its great! Really excellent quality food,good service, nice crowd and great for kids. For the kids they had bouncy castle/slide, camel rides, face painting, games and separate buffet area with kids food. Santa comes along and there is carol singing etc. It is a lovely place to take visitors BUT it is one of the most expensive and gets booked up pretty fast. This year we are giving Meydan a try for a change :)
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Latest post on 21 October 2013 - 10:21
Its tough trying to fit everything in! Just typical of life in Dubai. Sometimes I feel we are like little hamsters on a wheel trying to do it all......................... At least you are still getting your exercise GE :)
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 October 2013 - 10:16
I go 630am in the morning before work - only time I can fit it in! My husband does the morning school run so I can do this :)