kitten67 | ExpatWoman.com
 

kitten67

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Latest post on 19 February 2012 - 08:52
Go to Michelle - highly recommended. http://www.michelesoudi.com/ Check out her website I had my eyebrows done by her and they are great - very defined but not super skinny and scary and good natural colour. She really looks at your face and analyses what will suit you She works between UK and Dubai but is here every month
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 February 2012 - 14:43
The new Safa school will be other side of Sheikh Zayed Road. If you take the bridge at Safa Park across to Al Quoz, it is just next to the Dubai Bowling Centre. Much more spacious than the current school, not quite as handy but great for long term development of Safa school. Check the website for some pics. Not sure how many classes there will be. Currently there are 2 FS1 and 2 FS2 classes - give them a call :) If you can get a place - go for it. Safa is a lovely school. We are very happy there. Our DD has an amazing teacher and communication with parents is very good.
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Latest post on 26 January 2012 - 09:43
Just about! The Cold and Flu medicine did nothing. Went to Pharmacy on Monday - got KLACID 500mg antibiotics - feel human again!
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Latest post on 19 January 2012 - 16:16
Thanks everyone for the great suggestions! Will let you know how we get on :)
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Latest post on 19 January 2012 - 12:24
Hi i am trying to plan an end of year get together/thank you for my team at work and want to do an activity rather than just a dinner. In the past we have done Bateaux Dubai, bowling, go kartings at Autodrome and shooting at JASC. Need a new idea.................... Any suggestions for a fun activity for group of 25 people, mixed nationalities? Thanks!
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Latest post on 18 December 2011 - 11:05
We bought the Start Rite shoes and they have lasted well. DD finds them very comfy and designs are cute. We bought in MOE, Centrepoint. They may do the trick while you wait to order for Clarks from the UK. Stock here is always a nightmare Good luck
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 18 December 2011 - 10:42
Yes for last 11 years. NEVER had an issue No problems :)
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Latest post on 18 December 2011 - 10:41
I would not take the example below as a typical arrangement. Average salary is nearer AED1500- AED1800 depending on nationality and experience. Some people pay extra for babysitting at weekends but others assume this is included. Live in maid should have their own room which you will need to furnish for them with the basics. All the terms are really up to you re food toiletries etc. Some people will just ask their maid to choose what she needs while doing the weekly shopping, others give an allowance. I have a full time (5 days a week 730-6pm) live out maid, which I prefer as it avoids some of the issues above and means she treats our house as her place of work only. We sponsor her and pay her extra for accommodation and transport - just another option for you to think about. Some of the other posters with live in maids can give you details of their experiences which will help Good luck
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Latest post on 18 December 2011 - 10:32
Hi We always use Wafi Limo or Prime Limo and they are great. Usually Range Rover with carseats and lovely driver. More expansive than a normal cab but very good reliable service for both departure and arrivals and SAFE
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Latest post on 28 November 2011 - 10:17
Going to Coldplay concert in Abu Dhabi.
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Latest post on 27 November 2011 - 10:08
:)
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Latest post on 27 November 2011 - 10:04
Will try to go this afternoon if okay as DH has day off work :) <em>edited by kitten67 on 27/11/2011</em>
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Latest post on 27 November 2011 - 09:54
Hi There are 2 empty villas in my compound of 8. We are on 39 street (next streetdown from Spinneys on way to Park n Shop) They are large 3 bedrooms with maids room and large garden. (No pool) A little bit older but very spacious and nice neighbours Price = 130k!! There is agents board outside the compound.(Blue and orange sign) Landlord is National Bank of Abu Dhabi
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Latest post on 27 November 2011 - 09:50
Re the scarves - I have seen them in Ibn Battuta in the little stalls which are near the abaya shops and glitzy shoes shops behind Hello kitty shop
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Latest post on 27 November 2011 - 09:48
Hi I would be interested. How can we arrange to view it and collect? Thanks!
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Latest post on 16 November 2011 - 10:19
Hi We are at Safa. Both parents work full time so we unfortunately dont get to participate in some of the activities you mentioned. The school understand this. All of these things are on a voluntary basis. We have a lovely class mum who volunteered to coordinate between parents and teacher for events etc. Dont worry
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 November 2011 - 12:29
Totally agree with Nail Spa. I am a regular customer there and would not go if it was full of crying babies! I am a mother of a 3 year old myself and when I take time out to go and do my nails etc I certainly dont want to be bothered by other people's kids, never mind my own. Children do not belong in nail and hair salons. These places are for adults - finish. I wouldnt dream of exposing a baby to the fumes and chemicals in these places. Similarly, cinemas are also not intended for very young ears. Mothers need to plan their salon visits in advance. When I go to do my hair or nails - I go on a Saturday morning when my DD can spend time with her father. Or I go late evening when she is asleep. A little bit of planning can keep everyone happy.
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Latest post on 19 October 2011 - 13:28
I booked to stay at Hilton Iru Fushi through agoda.com and got a really good rate includig transfers from Male. We booked flights with EK directly
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Latest post on 16 October 2011 - 14:48
What would you like to know? My DD started at beginning of Sept and we are VERY happy with the school. Class is not too big and good communication with the teacher and other parents. It feels like a "village" school and is a lovely environment for little ones. I would highly recommend the school for FS1.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 October 2011 - 11:39
Recently in my organisation we have had problems getting visas for Shia Lebanese staff in Abu Dhabi. However, we managed to put them on our free zone visa in Dubai and it was okay. These rumours having been going around for a while. However, i do believe there is a genuine issue in Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. Not quite sure why......
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 October 2011 - 09:04
OMG! I initially had hoped it was a wind up but I believe this self righteous "lady" actually believes this BS! I am one of these evil career women and can tell you its NOT easy and we are not selfish. In my house, we are up at 6am every day, get our DD ready for school and then rush to work. I then rush from office to collect her at lunchtime, go home and have lunch with her, then dash back to office. Leave office around 5pm, doing grocery shopping etc en route and then go home to spend a couple of hours with her before she sleeps@ 730. She is with the nanny for around 3 hours in the afternoon - rest of time she is at school or with us. I personally think it is much better for a child to see her parents working hard and to understand that Mummy also has to go to work. My DD is very independent and friendly as a result of going to nursery when she was younger and is now enjoying school. I took 1 year of maternity leave when she was born but beleive an older child really benefits from interaction with other children in a structured environment like nursery. I have the greatest respect for all the SAHMs and I had no nanny or help for my DD's first 2 years so I do know it is a hard job. However, I believe letters like that in 7 Days come from a very ignorant place. Every parent (not just the mums) is different and has their own way of raising their kids. We should respect the differences and support each other not attack and be judgemental. My SAHM friends say they are envious of me with the corporate life and how I juggle it all. Similarly on my bad days I wish I could send more home baked cookies for the class etc. But the grass is always greener,lol.......... Anyway, just wanted to say I agree with the ladies below and hope that Desert Rose of 7 Days remains happy in la la land :) <em>edited by kitten67 on 04/10/2011</em>
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Latest post on 22 September 2011 - 14:09
I hired mine directly not via an agency. Poached her from my daughter's nursery school :)
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Latest post on 22 September 2011 - 10:30
You can sponsor her and pay her an accommodation and transportation allowance. We do this and it works well - no issue
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Latest post on 22 September 2011 - 10:29
Yes its possible. I have a full time maide who works 8-630 5 days a week and then goes home. We pay extra allowance for transport and accommodation. We also provide sponsorship etc She is worth every AED and we like to have our privacy at home in the evenings
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 September 2011 - 10:46
The saga continues.... Many thanks for the update :)
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Latest post on 04 September 2011 - 09:47
Im at work so hope there is stuff left at end of today. I hope they at least have the brains to put the orders aside I went in and prepaid and ordered the dresses and PE Kit but still need to get the book bag, PE bag and hat. Lets hope they are geared up for the rush!!
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Latest post on 04 September 2011 - 09:42
Thanks Lesley! Can you post here if you get some good news please? Fingers and toes crossed :)
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Latest post on 04 September 2011 - 09:39
My DD starting Safa this week . Ended up getting Start Rite shoes from Shoemart and they are v comfy. Re uniform.............AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!! The staff in that shop drive me BANANAS!!!! Totally clueless, rude and incompetent. They promised me stock is arriving today but who knows??? Lets see.............
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 September 2011 - 09:37
I bought a couple from here: Quality was good and fabric cool enough for Dubai www.nologo-chic.co.uk
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 September 2011 - 10:58
Dubai Ladies Club have a course this month. I received an email on this Call them on: 04 3499922 ext 302 or [email protected] Good luck It is Wed evenings from 21st :)
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 August 2011 - 09:50
Loreal! There are 2 types. The best one looks like 2 colours in the bottle (blue and aqua) and you have to shake it. It is labelled for sensitive eyes and lips as it also removes long lasting lipstick etc. I really like this one as it doesnt dry the skin and does not sting. If anything it is very slightly oily when removign the eye make up which is a lot gentler. You can find it everywhere - which is also a bonus!
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Latest post on 15 August 2011 - 13:06
I believe that it is a new organisation and service starts from this school year.
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Latest post on 15 August 2011 - 09:56
Oh no! I was planning to buy this weekend as my daughter is starting at Safa... I live next to Spinneys, so will check every couple of days and post here once stocks are in Fingers crosssed, it doesnt take too long!
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Latest post on 14 August 2011 - 15:15
Have you seen this site? It could be an option as not the standard school bus service www.carefirstgroup.ae
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Latest post on 14 August 2011 - 10:57
Sure It was AED2500. I believe well worth every dirham. Better than a facelift!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 August 2011 - 09:15
Hi Just wanted to add to this thread. I had my brows done yesterday @ NAILS salon in Dubai Marina with Michelle (lady mentioned below). I called her based on the recommendation below as was wary where to go. I cannot tell you how delighted I am! She spent time looking at my face, drew on brows the way they should look and when I was happy did the permanent brow. She really knows her stuff and uses HD Brows system which is tailored for each individual. I feel like my whole face looks better now. Wish I had gone to her years ago! :)
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Latest post on 31 July 2011 - 15:20
There is a stall near Areej at India Court
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Latest post on 31 July 2011 - 15:08
I bought the Blu shower filter in Ibn Battuta at the weekend AMAZING! Couldnt believe the difference. I would highly recommend it :)
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 31 July 2011 - 15:07
OMG! People are giving you crazy advice - you would end up with skin cancer. The sun is very strong here and if you are fair skinned you can feel your skin burning just walking from car to building etc. ALWAY wear sunscreen - you will still get colour. There are tanning salons here if you want to do it but best option is to fake it until you build up a bit of a tan. Sisters Beauty salon do good fake tan - St Tropez etc There is a tanning salon in Beach Centre which has sunbeds and the automatic spray tanning booths too. You may be surprised when you get here and change your attitude. People really admire my Snow White skin!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 31 July 2011 - 14:58
Hi. I pay my live out nanny AED4,000 per month. She works 5 days but typically is there from 730am til 630pm so around 45-50 hours a week. If we require babysitting at weekend, we dont pay her , just give her money for a cab home. I think this is a fair wage as she has to cover her transport and accommodation. I dont think you are being ripped off if the person is experienced and reliable.
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Latest post on 27 July 2011 - 13:03
Yes we paid the security deposit and handed in all the paperwork. It seems like we will pay in August once someone back in the office Thanks :)
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Latest post on 19 June 2011 - 12:52
I used to use a company called Golden Service Maids. I had a lady come 8-6pm 5 days a week. Cost was fairly reasonable (cant remember as it was a year ago but was less than 3k per month) They have a website I would be careful with any such companies as their specialty is cleaning more than childcare. better to do nursery for childcare. Or sponsor - its so worth it!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 31 May 2011 - 12:30
Are you on linkedin? I get approached around 2 times a week as my details on linked in - recruiters definitely use it. I would also recommend www.gulftalent.com www.execappointments.com www.roberthalf.ae www.michaelpage.ae www.efinancialcareers.com These have the best Finance positions Good luck :)
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 May 2011 - 16:35
DLC is great. 10k includes gym all classes for a year, beach and pool, use of the Talent Centre (for crafts, art etc). You also get 10 day passes so you can bring a friend to use the facilities. You get 4 spa treatments and 4 fitness assessments - they make a program for you etc I joined in Feb and think it is well worth the money. However they have a selection of packages depending what you need. For the creche I think it is another 2k or 3k per annum. I didint bother. I take my DD with me on a Fri to use the kiddies pool or beach - no charge. The quality of the gym equipment and facilities is very good and plenty of classes to choose from I would definitely recommend :)
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 09 May 2011 - 10:44
I have the same cooker and its great. Really good electric oven and grill - 3 gas rings and 1 electric. Lovely looking too - dull stainless steel with steel handles and knobs etc. We got ours from Lulu and no issues - very happy with it
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 09 May 2011 - 09:53
i actually found UAE site with them and they deliver free next day. Price is only AED50 more than UK price! http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cloud-Nine-Hair-Middle-East/122321987831507 Im going to treat myself!
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Latest post on 26 April 2011 - 13:17
She does not have any nanny qualifications but is much more than a maid and has a nursing background
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Latest post on 26 April 2011 - 12:43
I actually do! Our nanny is a qualified nurse from Philipines and previously worked in a nursery school here. She is a brilliant housekeeper,cook and nanny - very responsible with lots of common sense and initiative which is not easy to find. She goes grocery shopping, cooks from recipes, manages laundry, water, gas deliveries etc without being asked She works 5 days a week 8-6pm plus babysitting at the weekends if required (we dont pay extra for that only taxi money) She lives out so the salary also covers her accommodation and transportation. I think she is worth every dirham and deserves it but agree this is an unusual case! This lady is a godsend for us :)
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 April 2011 - 10:06
Just be very cautious. I sign the salary letters in my company for employees to take loans. Usually the wording format requires the employer to legally transfer EOSB to the named account at that bank. We do not give cheques for EOSB because of this. This avoids employers signing multiple salary letters which encourages employees to take on debt all over the place. If we agree to transfer to 1 bank, we cannot agree with another unless we have proof the first loan is cleared. However, as I became aware of the account freezing thing, we now transfer the amount to the named account but in the wording refer to it as salary transfer instead of EOSB. This has worked for most people and avoided the headache!
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Latest post on 11 April 2011 - 12:00
RBS - not recommended. We banked with them for 4 years and recently left them as customer service has gone downhill. I think they have been distracted by internal issues. We bank with Deutschbank and HSBC. DB are excellent for true CORPORATE banking - LCs, forex, great online banking system. If you are a multinational they would be my first pick. If your company is more UAE focused - then HSBC are pretty good but not wow. Good online banking, cash collection service, WPS help etc Hope this helps