lal1 | ExpatWoman.com
 

lal1

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Latest post on 06 June 2011 - 16:34
With EK you really have to hold your nerve and play flight lottery and second guess when prices will go up or down. I managed to secure flights NCL-DXB £446 today, it was £665 yesterday. Now I have to train myself to stop rechecking emirates website just in case they go down even further ;)
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Latest post on 06 June 2011 - 10:22
Wow what a difference! Glad you managed to get it soted :) I always have to start from Dubai as my trips home aren't regular so I can't plan it like that, grrrrrr, it's ridiculous considering it is the same journey, therfore incurs the same fuel, same airport taxes/surcharges etc! It's ridiculous the price difference starting in DXB, I always guessitmate when I next need to travel and sometimes just pay the £75 fee to change to date, still works out cheaper than starting journeys in DXB.
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Latest post on 06 June 2011 - 09:53
Update.... after checking EK prices constantly for the last week or so has paid off! This morning prices NCL - DXB up to 10th July reduced, managed to get return flights for £446.28, yesterday it was £656.28.
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Latest post on 05 June 2011 - 23:37
Thanks Bella and Boomerang, skyscanner wouldn't give many options as looking at NCL - DXB mid July and DXB - NCL mid December as I always start journeys from UK as it's cheaper. Definitely looking at KLM options as they are currently showing £200+ cheaper than Emirates. Any further tips appreciated.
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Latest post on 05 June 2011 - 16:59
Bump for BellaUK
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Latest post on 05 June 2011 - 15:20
Hi Bella, Seriously considering using KLM for NCL - DXB have always used Emirates so far but their prices are £200 - £300 more for Jul-Dec can I ask you for more advise/info re best times of flights as ther is a few to choose from and airport transfer ease etc as I will doing these on my own as DH would be travelling earlier/later etc. TIA
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Latest post on 05 June 2011 - 12:32
I almost got stung by Emirates yesterday, been checking every day the prices at the date I wanted went down to £468 yesterday, clicked button for details and nearly pressed button to book when suddenly realised the price was showing as £570 + tax coming in at £680 approx. Tried two or three times and sometimes initially showed at the cheaper price but leaped to the dearer price on the next page. DH urged me to ring Emirates but as I couldn't prove the cheaper price was showing I suspect I'd be wasting my breath. So its now back to checking every day in the off chance lower prices become available or I'll be forced into paying £680 - £706 Newcastle - Dubai or go with KLM or BA and endure the longer journeys and hassle that it brings.
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Latest post on 04 June 2011 - 13:57
See link http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/messages.aspx?TopicID=145198. Doesn't seem to open either search for acacia hotel RAK and it may come up but if not here is my post on the hotel/Iceland deal. "went on this deal a few weeks ago, very good value for the money. The water park is worth a visit on this deal, but wouldn't make the trip there on a day trip. The hotel is not in the best of areas, but since you aren't spending a lot of time there it's fine. The pool doesn't get sun in the mornings so we took advantage of the offer that you could pay a deposit at the hotel for a towel pass, which then allows access to the Al Hambra Fort Hotel for the next day which was lovely. It's then only a short trip back to the Acacia to get you deposit back, before heading back to Dubai. No food is included in the deal, but the buffet breakfast and evening meals were reasonably priced at least compared to Dubai prices! Please note that the entertainer vouchers cannot be used on the evening buffet, but seemingly they do have an a la carte menu, which you can use the vouchers on ( but you may have to specifically ask for the menu) the bar is quite small, but again compared to Dubai prices it was a bargain, there is also a night club for those who have any energy left! edited by lal1 on 04/06/2011 <em>edited by lal1 on 04/06/2011</em>
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Latest post on 03 June 2011 - 01:50
Visited British kitchen on Jumeirah beach Rd this week, huge portions and the best I've had so far in Dubai.
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Latest post on 03 June 2011 - 01:47
Boddington Hotel is in JLT, I know they are furnished. I think you mean Bonnington! Also worth looking at Oaks Liwa Heights in JLT
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Latest post on 02 June 2011 - 10:12
This was an old thread from me, I did recommend them again on other later threads but this was the easiest one to find. http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/messages.aspx?TopicID=87280
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 30 May 2011 - 14:26
Hi Anise, Close, but no, Im a physio. Good guessing tho! :) What about Rashid Therapy Centre, working with children? They have some jobs advertised, sorry not sure what but maybe worth a look? There is also Dubai Center for Special Needs may be worth taking a look at.
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Latest post on 26 May 2011 - 18:17
There was a HUGE difference in price between Emirates and Virgin when I booked our family tickets back to the UK. Unfortunately stuck with Emirates as DH refuses to do stop overs and they are the only ones flying direct to Newcastle. Ncl - Dxb has been showing at £445 and then jumped to £655 this week. but I got the better of them eventually just took me all day to figure it out. ;)
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Latest post on 24 May 2011 - 16:52
great news on the pharmacy! anybody know when the carrefour right at the JLT entrance will open??? Don't know Drew, but can't even work out how to drive to it! LOL
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Latest post on 24 May 2011 - 16:51
Quick question: if I get the Metro to JLT will I be able to walk to cluster E (Saba) or is it too far in the heat? Are taxis readily available and will they take me a short distance or will they refuse me in favour of a longer fare? I'm not familiar at all with JLT. Thanks! JLT metro entrance is very near to cluster E, you can always shelter from the sun by cutting through the car parks, or walking on the shady side of the buildings.
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Latest post on 23 May 2011 - 11:33
Actually it's Cluster E in Al Shera Tower and the adjacent parking is dedicated for it. Ooops sorry for giving out duff info. Must have had a bit of brain freeze as I shop there quite a lot. At least it was in the general direction :\:
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Latest post on 23 May 2011 - 09:35
Yes it was a great night, but at one point I was worried he was about to collapse, the heat and humidity really seemed to effect him and looked like he was struggling for breath. Like the seasoned professional he carried on and if anything got better as the night progressed. Can't believe that he turned 67 last week!
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Latest post on 16 May 2011 - 22:12
JLT is cluster D, second cluster after JLT metro, up the ramp, Car park adjacent has security to stop people parking all day, just point at the shop and he'll let you drive in.
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Latest post on 16 May 2011 - 12:12
Hi Diamante, you have mail so delete your address. About to head out now but speak soon.
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Latest post on 16 May 2011 - 11:54
Hi CP, we used Diamond Lease when we first arrived for about 7 months and never had any issues.
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Latest post on 15 May 2011 - 08:33
Thanks Diamanté, I'll keep them in mind for visitors. Ps you can have my Paul ones if you want. Are you still in JLT? I am now in the Marina, but still close by.
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Latest post on 14 May 2011 - 14:37
You could even try this book: http://www.lowcostdubai.com/Mini-Book.htm This one is a no-brainer, most of the favourites and JUST FOR AED 99. Note: Saffron in there too. 2 lots of of my visitors bought one each for their 1 week stay. I have one too. Plus the books they left behind since they only used saffron, aquaventure and 1 or 2 others ;) Just had a look and it has the Meat Co in which our visitors love, how many vouchers for each place are there? It might save us having to buy the fine dining book.
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Latest post on 11 May 2011 - 08:41
Depends on what its for, but if it's for orthopaedics I can recommend dr Ashfaq Konchwalla at medcare hospital, safa park.
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Latest post on 11 May 2011 - 08:32
I think that list is way out of date, but thanks for posting Diamanté. Mcgudys stopped quite awhile ago, but since they've closed now it's a bit academic. Can't comment on the others as I haven't tried any of them recently.
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Latest post on 10 May 2011 - 17:58
Costa coffee and the coffee house are both still available. Bad customer service then... he told me it was only the 4 places I listed. Thanks. What's the offer at Costa by the way? Costa coffee - coffee and cake 15aed. At the coffee house coffee and muffin - 15 aed, toastie and coffee 25 aed
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Latest post on 10 May 2011 - 14:15
Costa coffee and the coffee house are both still available.
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Latest post on 07 May 2011 - 15:01
Happened to me and DH yesterday as well. The first gentleman offered me his seat and then the young emirati offered DH his. Didn't know if it was more to do with him not being comfortable sitting next to a lady he didn't know or just being kind. Anyway it was a nice touch and made my day.
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Latest post on 04 May 2011 - 09:57
If you are residing here and not just visiting they may not give you anything or at least not for some time. For people travelling as tourists it is considered that they are away from home and don't have the basic amenities available but for people who go back to where they live it is considered that they already have the basics in their homes. This information is correct, SIL luggage was missing for 6 weeks on his way back to the UK, no compensation at all, at least it eventually turned up, rather smelly as he'd packed his dirty washing and wouldn't let me wash it all before he set off back home :\:
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Latest post on 03 May 2011 - 16:01
How about the yacht club Dubai Marina? PQ is OK for what it is, but not anything special.
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Latest post on 03 May 2011 - 08:24
You can usually get in about 15 mins earlier than the time on your ticket if everyone from the earlier slot are through. But you don't get the opportunity to look at the displays on the way down as you come out of a different exit. The main cause of delays are people not putting things through the X-ray machines quick enough and queuing for the lifts as the fast pass (immediate tickets) get priority.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 May 2011 - 17:37
Asked DH and he is certain the golf shops at Emirates and the Monty should stock them. Why not give them a ring? Why don't you suggest 10 pin bowling instead?
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Latest post on 02 May 2011 - 09:21
Emirates Palace has a spring and summer resident's deal on now. Oooops sorry that's Abu dhabi rather than Dubai, but still worth mentioning. <em>edited by lal1 on 02/05/2011</em>
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Latest post on 01 May 2011 - 23:04
Try Fish and Chip Basket in Dubai Marina.... Just up from the Yacht Club. I'm addicted...And the mushy peas are to die for. Its not been open long but its definately fish and chips homestyle.. Went there on your recommendation CJ but found them very greasy and didn't like the chips still having the skin on, perhaps you built up my expectations too much, but I'd say they probably were the best I've tested so far, doesn't say too much for the others LOL can't wait for my trip home in June to have some proper fish and chips and batter!
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Latest post on 01 May 2011 - 23:00
Help needed, DH wants me to try golf and we are struggling to find shops that stocks ladies clubs, any suggestions? Ha, ha, ha can't wait to see you in golf gear!!!! Sorry only joking, have you tried the big sports shops in the Outlet Mall or the one at Mirdiff CC or look on dubizzle.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 May 2011 - 22:58
I lived in Liwa heights for 2 years, in a 2bed apt, we looked at Gloria a few times, but Liwa Heights always came out as the best option and was happy to stay the second year. Have you actually seen either apartments in the flesh? If not I wouldn't commit or sign anything until you see them, both have pluses and minuses if you are looking at the 1 bed apts Gloria has 2 floor plans and 4 designs and some overlook SZR and if on a low floor, traffic noise could pose a problem, Liwa Heights has 3 different floor plans and you need time to look at and decide which is best for you. Liwa Heights 1 bed pats are much bigger and brighter. As you will be signing up for a full year you need to make the decision which is right for you. Don't be pressurised into making an immediate decision, summer is almost here and more apts are usually available then so don't believe anyone if they tell you this is the last one and xxxxx amount of people are after it.
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Latest post on 30 April 2011 - 17:51
I have not read all the posts as this is such a long thread now but I just wanted to reassure people there is life after your kids leave home! My first left home almost 4 years ago and the youngest nearly 2 years ago, they are both very happy doing what they are doing and that makes us happy. On a positive note - I have worked part time here for years but I have just accepted a full time job, at 51 this is quite a daunting, but exciting prospect, after 22 years I am not sure how I will cope with the lack of freedom though! Good luck in your new job CP I am sure you'll give it your best shot. Is it in the same line of work that you were already doing?
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Latest post on 30 April 2011 - 12:03
Only bring bedding if you are bringing your bed as well. Beds here tend to be much bigger and standard bedding is no good. I always get visitors to bring TCP, Savlon and Quality Street big purple ones!
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Latest post on 28 April 2011 - 09:45
Since most of these questions, ie grandparents name, pets name, street etc are often used as online banking security questions I'd be wary posting them on an open forum. I know it's a bit of fun, but worth pointing out.
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Latest post on 28 April 2011 - 09:40
Liwa Heights at JLT are worth looking at.
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Latest post on 27 April 2011 - 11:01
Dig him in the ribs to make him lie on his side, a finger under his chin to make him tilt his head back and if all else fails earplugs for you. Ototap earplugs from the pharmacy are the best I've found, or if all else fails separate bedrooms.
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Latest post on 20 April 2011 - 11:49
On the way back down jebel hafeet call into the Mercure Grand Hotel for refreshments it's a lovely hotel.
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Latest post on 19 April 2011 - 20:50
Went on this deal a few weeks ago, very good value for the money. The water park is worth a visit on this deal, but wouldn't make the trip there on a day trip. The hotel is not in the best of areas, but since you aren't spending a lot of time there it's fine. The pool doesn't get sun in the mornings so we took advantage of the offer that you could pay a deposit at the hotel for a towel pass, which then allows access to the Al Hambra Fort Hotel for the next day which was lovely. It's then only a short trip back to the Acacia to get you deposit back, before heading back to Dubai. No food is included in the deal, but the buffet breakfast and evening meals were reasonably priced at least compared to Dubai prices! Please note that the entertainer vouchers cannot be used on the evening buffet, but seemingly they do have an a la carte menu, which you can use the vouchers on ( but you may have to specifically ask for the menu) the bar is quite small, but again compared to Dubai prices it was a bargain, there is also a night club for those who have any energy left!
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Latest post on 18 April 2011 - 10:26
My DD is going to take her 2 kids out of school for just 2 weeks so they can come visit us here. As they havent had a family holiday together before. THe kids school isnt the best for understanding this, so DD is going to have to fib alittle to get them here, wrong I know, but its just for 2weeks. That's more to do with the UK government not wanting parents to take kids out of school during term time, legally schools can only authorise two weeks holiday out of any school year, and any days over are called as unauthorised absence which is recorded and published in the school statistics, but as with most things there are ways around it, one of our school governors used to take her child out for three weeks, she just happened to be ill for a few days before and a few days at the end! Senior schools are more rigid in enforcing, due to exams etc which is understandable. <em>edited by lal1 on 18/04/2011</em>
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Latest post on 18 April 2011 - 10:20
http://www.azurspa.com/74-azur-spa-on-wheels I went to the salon, but have had friends who had them come to the house.
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Latest post on 18 April 2011 - 10:10
I worked at a primary school in the uk and when parents requested extended time off for trips like this, the head always willingly granted them. The life experiences gained, fully outweighed the school time missed and at such a young age the time can easily be made up. She always asked that the child keep a diary, make scrapbooks, chart a map of places visited, distances between stops, temperature, the local currency, the price of staple items, usually a can of coke, loaf of bread etc and whenever possible email the school with an update. It sounds an amazing journey I am sure you will all have a great time.
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Latest post on 18 April 2011 - 09:57
thanks for the recipes they sound great ...but my guests (and me) are muslim so wine and bacon are out of question ... i guess i can use turkey instead of bacon to wrap chestnut (or date or anyother nut) can you bake it ? has anyone tried it? Turkey or veal bacon should be fine. Also use non alcoholic wine or even fish stock to poach the salmon. Use can also get the frozen spring rolls, samosas etc from most supermarkets, brush them with oil and oven bake instead of deep frying. I don't know what you mean by Lasagna rolls do you mean cannelloni?
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Latest post on 17 April 2011 - 22:45
Salmon Pate, poach the salmon fillet in white wine. Allow to cool and flake. Blend unsalted butter with double cream and add the flaked salmon. Reduce the wine till only about one/two tablespoons left and add to the mix - pour into serving dish and place in fridge to set. Can be made extra special by adding a few cooked king/jumbo prawns when blending and then placing a few prawns on the top as decoration. - yummy - mind you I'd hate to add up the calorie content!
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Latest post on 17 April 2011 - 22:22
Have you tried the opticians? that's where I usually get my contact lens solution, but I use Bausch and Lamb RENU.
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Latest post on 17 April 2011 - 22:18
Ibn Battuta mall has one.
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Latest post on 17 April 2011 - 18:36
I do the same with flights to Newcastle. Takes a bit of planning, but saves £££££££s.