kitten67 | ExpatWoman.com
 

kitten67

kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 October 2013 - 10:12
I do circuit training about 4 times a week. So 4 hours of running, cardio,weights and squats, lunges etc. Keeps me sane......
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 October 2013 - 14:07
Shantaram - amazing as the ladies said Gone Girl - Gillian A Thousand Splendid Suns - Khalid Hosseini Me Before You - Jojo Moyes Dont Let Me Go - Catherine Ryan Hyde (all of hers are a good quick read) The Storyteller - Jodi Picoult Driving the Saudis - Jayne Amelia Larson I Shall Not Hate - Izzeldin Abuelaish
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 October 2013 - 10:01
Hi TDB I dont live in any of these areas but will give you my thoughts...... We used to live in 2 bed in Springs and it really is too small - not enough storage and no proper space for the maid. I have friends who live in Motor City and are very happy. Lovely community and facilities, finishing on apartments is really good and fairly spacious. This could be a decent option. I had another friend who lived in JVC - great house but very isolated especially at night. Not ideal if you need the pharmacy or something late at night. It will improve over time though but with 2 little ones I would prefer to be somewhere established. I own a 3 bed in Al Furjan which I rented out for AED125k earlier this year!! Wish I had known you were looking! My vote is for Motor City - good luck!
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 September 2013 - 10:31
Its a nice read but not in same league as his others....... A Thousand Splendid Suns was the best for me. Intrested to hear what you all think once you have read it :) Definitely worth a read...
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 September 2013 - 10:26
Another option is full time live out. We have this and it works great. We sponsor her and pay a bit extra salary so she can rent her own accomodation and get the bus to our house each morning. She comes 730am and leaves 6pm each day. She has Fri and Sat off but if we want to go out she is on call for babysitting and we just pay for a taxi home. We like this option as we still have our privacy and are not involved in her personal life at all. She has family in Dubai so can enjoy her evenings and weekends with them. In my experience live out works best where you live in a central location. We live in Jumeira and nanny is in Satwa so just 10 minutes away by bus. I think if you live in new Dubai side it would be more difficult as there is not close availability of low cost accommodation. Worth considering.......
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 September 2013 - 12:03
Carrefour has some but again not sure of design selections - seemed to be mainly clear with patterns
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 September 2013 - 11:37
Its okay - no problem. I ordered through SnS with no issues 2 times for knitting needles. (They usually come in a plastic wallet thing anyway) You should be fine...........
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 18 September 2013 - 12:58
Some points to think about Dont pounce on him for conversation as soon as he gets through the door, give him half an hour to an hour to unwind and freshen up etc. He will be more communicative once he winds down a bit Try not to be totally emotionally dependent on him. Even try to arrange a couple of evening activities once or twice a week with the girls so you are not waiting for him for company. This will also give you some stuff to talk about with him. Let him babysit! Try and see if you can get him to agree to put his phone on silent after 7pm and only check it once an hour in case there is an urgent call he has to return. Otherwise he should be relaxing. Focus on the "relaxing" part not on the I NEED ATTENTION. (which is the reality!) You dont want to sound like a harpie! This is totally normal what you are going through. But you need to nip it in the bud or it will affect your confidence. He also needs a reality check and a boot in the a** - but you have to do it subtly! <em>edited by kitten67 on 18/09/2013</em>
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 18 September 2013 - 12:08
It may be easier for you to let him do FS1 at nursery as timing would be more flexible for you. You could apply to school and try to defer entry until FS2. Realistically the cost of a school bus is expensive (around AED1000 to 1500 a month!) plus nursery costs for after school. It would be cheaper to hire a maid who can do all your housework in the morning and watch your son after school. Maybe you could arrange for another Mum to drop him home? Also, you should also remember that some schools dont allow FS1 kids to take the bus...... Food for thought......
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 September 2013 - 16:00
I know AnonDubai - I initially thought this was a wind up!
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 September 2013 - 15:34
Minging! No amount of perfume or sprays can cover up an unwashed smell. In fact perfume usually makes it worse as it mingles with the pong! I would suggest you run when you have time to shower afterwards....... Have some consideration for those who have to sit in your vicinity.... (Eeeugh!!)
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 September 2013 - 15:31
It seems like you are having a bad day. For sure it is not acceptable for school staff to have poor communication with parents and I would definitely complain about the bus arrangements - that sounds really unprofessional! BUT Tea! Come on! They are running a school not a cafeteria. It is not their problem if you dont drive or cant organise transport to take you home while your child is in class. You are an adult - you need to organise yourself properly! What makes you think it is acceptable for parents to have access to staff facilities? It is totally inappropriate. They have rules for security - not anyone can wander in the school when they fancy and have a cuppa! If I was the recptionist, I wouldnt want groups of parents loitering around for hours. this is not how the school system works....... I would suggest you either: Sort out your transportation or Switch to a school closer to your home or Bring a flask of tea with you!
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 September 2013 - 11:00
Have you considered Circuit Factory? It would work out cheaper than PT and you will get results much faster - husband faster still. Check out their website www.circuitfactory.ae It is really worth considering and you will meets lots of nice people at the same time. Once you get into it its a great buzz and the results are fantastic. I dont know where you live but they have locations in Mirdiff, Meadows and Al Quoz
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 16 September 2013 - 18:49
I saw them in Decathlon on Saturday
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 16 September 2013 - 18:48
Went to Yalumba at Meridien Airport last Thu. Food was really good and good drinks selection. AED219 with alcohol AED159 without
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 September 2013 - 10:21
Very true! 100% agree - I always enjoy TDB posts... Its funny but here on the forum I think we can always identify like minded people and I have a lot of respect for TDB and her posts. I am also a working mother with a young kid and a Brit married to an Arab so get a lot of where she is coming from...... Similarly there are other posters on here who are 180degrees on a different planet from me and I dont always "get" their posts and points of view BUT that is the great thing about EW. There is such a diverse group of ladies on here it makes for compulsive reading and is an invaluable source of information at times. Still addicted......
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 09 September 2013 - 16:53
Pretty Lady in Satwa - not the fanciest salon but one of the best pedicures if you need a thorough filing 04-3985255
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 09 September 2013 - 15:27
We had this in the Springs before! it was awful..... In the end we found an issue on the roof between the vents from each villa It seems the our fan was sucking in all the bad air being pumped out next doors house instead of clean air. When this builds up over a period of time especially in humidity there is a horrid damp stink Get the a/c guys to check on the roof to make sure there is no blockage in your air supply
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 September 2013 - 15:29
Thats been there for years! I thought all the students in Sauchiehall Street would keep them in businesss....
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 August 2013 - 15:01
Try Funky Monkeys next to Safestway We attended a Princess party there and it was great. They had dressing up, mani pedis and a fashion show. The little girls loved it! Its on SZR near Al Mazaya Centre/Safa Park
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 August 2013 - 14:52
Try Funky Monkeys next to Safestway We attended a Princess party there and it was great. They had dressing up, mani pedis and a fashion show. The little girls loved it!
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 August 2013 - 13:49
Dr Akache is a lovely GP at Health Bay Polyclinic. They also do a really good full medical check up there
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 August 2013 - 13:44
What about this www.assist.ae http://assist.ae/school-shuttle/ They have lady driver school shuttles
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 August 2013 - 13:00
I dealt with Liquid in UK. I believe there is someone who visits here back and forward but their main office is in Manchester.
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 August 2013 - 12:55
I work full time and I take a packed lunch with me and eat it at my desk while I work. I then take my lunch break around 145 - dash to school pick up DD and drop her home and am back at my desk by 230. I try not to arrange any meetings at this time. This works 90% of the time. When it doesn't - if i am on business trip or have meetings - my husband takes a turn or if we are really stuck one of the other mothers will drop her home. Its quite hectic but I actually prefer to do the pick up each day so I can see the teacher and talk to my daughter about what she has been up to....
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 August 2013 - 11:56
I have just completed this with NWI. There are a choice of products fixed rates, tracker rates etc You are looking in the range of 3 -4%. As well as rates you need to consider whether each product allows overpayments/early settlement and also arrangement fees for fixed rates etc
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 August 2013 - 09:46
Hi LA2013. Our maid is from the Philipines and used to work at our daughter's nursery school which is how we got to know her. We pay her 4000 which is a bit on the high side - other people pay 2500-3000 for a live out maid. She rents a room in a villa with some friends and comes by bus each day. Then the sponsorship is 5,000 per year fees approx. It works well for her and us. She is married and has relatives in Dubai so she gets to spend time with them and we get our privacy. Also, although we are friendly her living out helps to maintain some professional distance and I dont get involved in any personal dramas!
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 August 2013 - 13:13
If you are working, a maid is best route to go. They don't need to necessarily live-in. Ours lives out and we sponsor her. She comes at 730am in morning and leaves when we get back from work around 6pm. She also does occasional babysitting at weekends too. While we are at work and school she does the housework, laundry etc. When my daughter comes home from school she takes care of her so that when I arrive home from work DD has had dinner and a bath and our time together is just for play and homework before bed. Our maid also prepares our dinner each day and the packed lunches for the following day. If you are working it really is a huge help to have someone at home. It means that you can have quality family time when you are not at work. I think it is really worth considering.......
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 20 August 2013 - 15:26
Health Bay Polyclinic does an excellent all round health check. Highly recommended and they give you a little report booklet afterwards with all your results and measurements.
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 August 2013 - 11:54
Mercato tailor is very good - I do most of my alterations there. Where did you get the suit from? Usually they would do alteration.... I was quite cheeky - bought a Hugo Boss suit in Germany in the airport duty free as they had a sale. Brought it back to Dubai and took it to Hugo Boss in MOE and they adjusted for me ;) If the brand has a store in Dubai - could be worth a shot :)
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 August 2013 - 13:06
Live out is NOT illegal! Its just not that common so people wrongly assume that.... I have had a live out maid for 4 years. We sponsor her and pay her additional salary to cover her rent and transportation. When I was renewing her visa immigration were laughing at me saying why do you pay so much? But I explained to them the live out situation and I wanted to pay her enough to cover her accommodation and ensure I paid her well so she didn't part time anywhere. He agreed this was a good option and said that if you find good help then it is nice to treat them well. We also had a visit from municipality doing a census in our area and explained to them that she was live out - no issue at all. Live out maid works best for us - she treats us as her employers and comes in works hard and goes home at 6pm. No drama! At weekends we can call her for babysitting if we want a night out, otherwise she has a good rest and we have house to ourselves. Not cheap - but it works and is not illegal at all if you sponsor her. <em>edited by kitten67 on 05/08/2013</em>
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 July 2013 - 13:36
I think this is really a personal thing - every family and every maid is different. We pay ours AED4,000 (live out). She works 5 days 730am -6pm and on call for babysitting at weekend if we need her. This lady is invaluable for our family. She is very responsible and very kind and patient with our daughter. She is so much more than a maid - a great housekeeper, nanny and cook too. For me she is worth every dirham.
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 July 2013 - 12:48
If you have kids - you can get great school uniform stuff from Asda and Tesco - skirts, trousers, socks, cardigans etc I also stock up on loads of stickers,coloured paper and craft stuff from the 1pound shops :) My number 1 buy is always Vanish soap bars - they work much better than the powder but for some reason nobody stocks the bars in Dubai. Most other things you can buy in Dubai these days...............
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 May 2013 - 11:53
You could also try the smaller malls and boutiques in Jumeira Eve Michele/ sauce/West LA - depends on your style and taste Happy shopping!
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 May 2013 - 11:47
I think MOE is very generic and difficult to find something different If you want something different that nobody in UK will have why not try Mumbai Se in Dubai Mall or Festival city for something unusual. They have nice cocktail dresses in lovely fabrics and colours quite often. Festival City and Dubai Mall also have US stores like Maxmara, ABS, Laundry and DKNY which may have nice options. Mumbai Se is well worth a look!
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 May 2013 - 10:52
Thanks for the link - really helpful and clear :)
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 May 2013 - 10:22
Hi. Thanks for response so far. I also don't think there is an actual requirement but would like to do it. My husband is not UK citizen but we are buying property in UK, may go and live there later and also need to make a will etc so thought it would be useful to register it for the future. Anyone else have any such circumstances?
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 April 2013 - 10:25
I recently had my Mirena coil removed as had awful side effects - be careful as it doesn't agree with everyone. No more hormones for me! I was interested in being sterilised - but its not possible here. However, vasectomies are readily available if you can persuade your DH :) I highly recommend Dr Liliana at Healthbay Polyclinic on Al Wasl - very pragmatic with such issues
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 09 April 2013 - 15:45
I have relatives in a similar position. It is very hard and the market is saturated with law graduates. Those who have done the additional time to get their practising cert will have a better chance. Try www.roberthalf.ae - sometimes they have roles for trainee in house counsel etc Good luck!
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 09 April 2013 - 14:25
http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/topic172910-wedding-dress-help-please.aspx Its here on an old thread. She is great but not sure if she is still here in Dubai
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 08 April 2013 - 13:50
Dubai Cosmetic Surgery on Al Wasl Road do it. I know 2 people who did it there. (One more successful than the other - depends on colours in tattoo).
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 April 2013 - 10:43
Hi I am desperate to get hold of 2 tickets. Have tried every competition in Dubai as missed buying them when they first came out as was travelling Have emailed you and can buy both today Thx :)
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 March 2013 - 13:28
I think you need to take annual leave or unpaid leave. Employers give sick leave based on sickness certificate for us not our children.
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 March 2013 - 09:55
FS2 Usually nice little project homework - like making a collage and labelling it etc Drawing activities Learning a rhyme and matching pictures to words - nothing intense
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 March 2013 - 09:49
Safa School. They get some homework at weekend but during the week there is nothing formal. Up to the parent to read stories, practice reading and writing etc. Very nice community atmosphere. We are very happy there.
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 20 February 2013 - 10:00
I would recommend HD Brows which is a similar concept. There is a lady called Michele Soudi who does it in Dubai at salon in Marina - she is wonderful. Check out her website - eyebrowsdubai or her facebook page. Highly recommended!
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 February 2013 - 11:18
Best option is to book a private pick up service. We have used Prime Limo a lot - nice cars like Audi, Lexus, Range Rover Sport etc The driver will wait at Airport Arrivals inside the terminal with a board with the name of the passenger Cost is approx AED200 and service is very reliable 04 2853815
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 February 2013 - 11:38
LOL! Dragonmart is one of those places where you have to go on a "mission". Get in fast and out fast! I went and bought wooden flooring last week - in and out in 20 minutes! Otherwise it drives you MAAAAAD! Best time is 10am when it just opens.... I know how you feel :)
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 February 2013 - 11:33
Maybe mine was slightly more expensive than I quoted then?? I honestly cant remember clearly. However, for the fit, design, fitting etc I really thought it was v good value for money. It really changed the look of my room and clothes are much better organised now. I think the best option is to measure the space and then head down to IKEA and let them cost it up for you. Good luck. If you dont see what you fancy, Dragonmart could potentially be an option?
kitten67
456
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 February 2013 - 10:19
Ayzzy - I actually cant remember and of course it depends on the configuration and accessories you choose. I think it was 3-4k. If you have a look at the IKEA catalogue online you can probably get an approximate idea if you know home many doors you will go for etc...
 
 
How expats in Germany can get German pension refund

Bye Bye Germany - Hello German Pension Refund?

UAE Emirati Lawyer Awatif Khouri in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Meet the Emirati Woman Breaking Grounds in UAE Law: Awatif Khouri

Mashreq NEO NXT Account | Why Kids and Teens Need Financial Education

Why Teens Need Real-World Financial Education?

International university transition tips

How to Make the Transition to University Life Easier

How to apply for Germany VBL Pension Refund as an expatriate | Germany Pension Refund

Bye Bye German Public Service Job - Hello VBL Pension Refund

Tourist SIM cards in Dubai guide

Tourist SIM Cards in Dubai: Where to Get One and Package Prices

World's most expensive cities to live in 2024

These Are the World's Most Expensive Cities To Live in 2024

Dubai ranked as one of the best cities to work in 2024

Dubai Ranked Among Top 5 Cities in the World to Work In

What are the signs that your online date is a fraud

8 Warning Signs Your Online Date is a Scammer

10 Expat Experiences You Should Check Off Before Repatriation

10 Expat Experiences You Should Check Off Before Leaving For Good

Best and Worst Countries to Get Started Abroad for New Expats

Best and Worst Countries for New Expats to Get Started Abroad

Under the Mango Tree by Robyn Fok | Expat Books

Expat Author Robyn Fok's 'Under the Mango Tree' Deals With Pet Grief & Loss

Expat Wife, Happy Life: Interview With Expat Author Florence Reisch

(Images: Supplied)

Expat Interview: Meet Florence Reisch, Author of 'Expat Wife, Happy Life!'

Remembering Queen Elizabeth II: A Tribute by UAE Expats

Remembering an Extraordinary Woman: A Tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

10 reasons why expat women love the UAE

10 Reasons Why the UAE is a Popular Choice for Expat Women

6 Common Fears of Moving Abroad By Yourself and How to Overcome Them

Moving to the UAE Alone: 6 Common Fears and How to Overcome Them

Ultimate Babyshop Baby and Toddler Travel Packing List

These Baby Travel Essentials Are Must-Haves For Your Next Family Getaway

Requirements to apply for a UAE Golden Visa

How Do I Obtain a UAE Golden Visa? Requirements, Eligibility, and Process Explained

5 Tip for Expats to Survive Long-Distance Relationships

5 Tip for Expats to Survive Long-Distance Relationships

Opening a bank account in the UAE

A Newcomer to the UAE? What to Consider When Choosing a Bank for Opening an Account

Culture shock in the United Arab Emirates for expats

14 Ways You Will Experience Culture Shock in the UAE

Why you shouldn't upload your resume on your LinkedIn profile

5 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Upload a Resume to Your LinkedIn Profile

10 Secrets to Happiness as an Expat

10 Secrets to Finding Happiness as an Expat

4 Ways to Network as an Expat

4 Ways to Network as an Expat

8 Expat Problems That Are Just Too Real

8 Expat Problems That Are Just Too Real

How to Make New Friends in a Foreign Country

How to Make New Friends in a Foreign Country

Top 10 Countries with the Best Quality of Life

Top 10 Countries with the Best Quality of Life

The best European cities for new expats

Pictured: Prague

The Best Cities in Europe for Expat Arrivals

House in Husavik

10 Amazing Things To Do In Iceland

How to Make Your Own Life as an Expat and Why It’s Important

How to Make Your Own Life as an Expat and Why It’s Important

The Labriz eforea spa location

Why Seychelles is One of the Best Holiday Destinations

The Real Expat: Chasing Your Dreams to Find Your True Purpose

The Real Expat: Chasing Your Dreams to Find Your True Purpose

6 Annoying Things Expats Hate Hearing

6 Annoying Things Expats Hate Hearing