laurelm | ExpatWoman.com
 

laurelm

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Latest post on 14 May 2013 - 14:34
I've done both both border crossings (as well as another at Kalba) and I do think the Al Ain crossing is quicker, but not by a great deal. If you're more comfortable going the Hatta route, do that.
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Latest post on 14 May 2013 - 13:54
I second Mumbai Se, I've got a couple of fairly neat dresses there. They carry Hemant & Nandita, who I love. I'd also recommend S*auce, located in both Jumeirah and Dubai Mall (also have a space in the Outlet Mall), and VallyDez in Wafi. Perhaps Boutique 1 as well, but I think they're a bit more trendy than offbeat. For something quite different from the Dubai norm, there are a couple of new clothing shops in Al Serkal Avenue in Al Quoz - The cARTel and...hm, don't recall the name of the other one, but it's in the center row of galleries, next to La Galerie National, I believe.
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Latest post on 14 May 2013 - 10:56
Israa and Mi'raj (Ascension of the Prophet).
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Latest post on 14 May 2013 - 10:03
I could be wrong, but I think at least the night shouldn't be dry. Assuming the public holiday is called for June 6, I think it'll be dry from sundown on June 5 through June 6 day, and then will be back to normal from sundown on June 6? <em>edited by laurelm on 14/05/2013</em>
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Latest post on 13 May 2013 - 09:23
LadyBee I am with you! When I was younger it was all sweets, all the time, but as the years go by I don't often eat them (cupcakes are usually what gets me, but even that is rare). Cheese on the other hand...bring it on. I'll take cheese over sweets any day.
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Latest post on 12 May 2013 - 14:43
Yes, definitely open on Fridays. Don't know the exact hours, but I am pretty sure I've been there as early as 8am.
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Latest post on 09 May 2013 - 09:19
Bikers Cafe (bikerscafedubai.com), opposite Mercato, has some really tasty Arabic breakfast options. It was introduced to me by my Emirati colleague, who raves about its Arabic breakfast dishes. Not much of a view, but it is right next to the beach and you can go for a stroll there after. I took my sister there when she visited and she loved the Emirati breakfast that they offer. My fave is the Egg Malawach.
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Latest post on 08 May 2013 - 16:35
Of course it is. I have some clothes drying outside today, for the first time in ages. I agree, the weather has been much nicer than usual for this time of year though, so I can't really complain too much.
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Latest post on 08 May 2013 - 10:06
I buy a gift online to have shipped to her. Perfume this year. Hopefully anyway. I spent a good deal of time trying to purchase something for my mom yesterday on US websites, and one after the other, they declined my foreign card. Very frustrating. I [i'>think[/i'> I finally had success, but still am waiting on the processing confirmation from the shop. It never used to be this tricky to use my UAE CC on US websites. I feel like over the past year, it's gotten much more difficult - I recall Christmas shopping was more difficult than usual this year, too. Has anyone else noticed this? It's a real nuisance. Yes! Its become quite frustrating! Thats why I am now resorting to calling the store directly. The staff get quite a kick out of it - OOOh you're in Dubai, sure we can help you! and I find, they go out of their way to make the gifts special (giftwrap add flowers etc) at no extra charge. edited by xmasbaby on 08/05/2013 Haha, I bet! It's always a hoot when I bust out one of my UAE cards back home - especially in Pittsburgh, it's an item of great interest! I will definitely give your suggestion a try next time around, thanks.
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Latest post on 08 May 2013 - 09:55
I bought one from Hyper Panda - wouldn't recommend it from there. It stopped working pretty quickly.
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Latest post on 08 May 2013 - 09:45
I buy a gift online to have shipped to her. Perfume this year. Hopefully anyway. I spent a good deal of time trying to purchase something for my mom yesterday on US websites, and one after the other, they declined my foreign card. Very frustrating. I [i'>think[/i'> I finally had success, but still am waiting on the processing confirmation from the shop. It never used to be this tricky to use my UAE CC on US websites. I feel like over the past year, it's gotten much more difficult - I recall Christmas shopping was more difficult than usual this year, too. Has anyone else noticed this? It's a real nuisance.
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Latest post on 06 May 2013 - 11:15
Hey, Laurelm, great minds, eh :D Indeed - I absolutely love that website!
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Latest post on 06 May 2013 - 11:10
My fave apostrophe guide: http://theoatmeal.com/comics/apostrophe <em>edited by laurelm on 06/05/2013</em>
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Latest post on 30 April 2013 - 16:50
Yes, they close at 3 or 4pm. Per page, the starting rate is 90dhs (I think), but you can get them to reduce that price, especially if you will be doing regular business with them. I don't think we've ever paid full price.
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Latest post on 30 April 2013 - 16:38
My company uses the Encyclopedia for Legal Translation. They are fine, although you'll want to read through after you receive the translation as there will likely be a few edits you'll want to make. http://encyclopedia-translation.com/
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Latest post on 30 April 2013 - 11:05
Oh yes that's right. It wasn't sounding right in my head as I typed it, but I couldn't figure out why, so just went with it, hah.
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Latest post on 30 April 2013 - 10:49
I like Jumeirah Beach Park, but not near the Dubai Marine Beach Club; it is way too packed there. Most people seem to be too lazy to venture away from that end of the beach, where the main parking is, so if you go to to other end it's much, much less crowded. Even if you park here, al you have to do is walk a good 5-10 mins and the crowd thins significantly. I like to park near Bikers Cafe (opposite Mercato) and access Jumeirah beach from there. Added bonus - Bikers is delicious for breakfast and lunch!
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Latest post on 30 April 2013 - 09:54
I think LadyBee's suggestion is great. You might also want to check out Gerard Darel. They seem to regularly carry long, flowing dresses (made of lush silk) in a variety of colors and patterns. I have one from there and it's one of my fave items to wear. ETA: Just had a quick look on the GD website and found this: http://www.gerarddarel.com/fr/pretaporter-1/robes/robe-longue-pastel.html (quite tempted myself, to be honest!) <em>edited by laurelm on 30/04/2013</em>
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Latest post on 28 April 2013 - 12:04
and don't forget 2nd December street :) That's the most disappointing name change of all! I was living just off of Diyafah at the time of the change and was so sad to suddenly see the new street signs one morning. I just feel like the original name has a lot more character to it. I also feared that the new name would create or attract even more horrific traffic on/around National Day each year!
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Latest post on 28 April 2013 - 11:48
The name change of the Bypass (E611) happened a few weeks' ago. Most of our friends have gotten around the new road names by calling the E311 'the old Emirates Road' and the E611 'the new Emirates Road'. Haha, yes that's what I call them, too! All of the road name changes get really tiring, especially as many of them sound rather similar. Emaar Blvd was changed to Mohammed Bin Rashid Blvd earlier this year, as well. With my office located there, we are still working on getting all of our stationery updated accordingly.
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Latest post on 28 April 2013 - 11:40
I once surprised my SO with a trip to Anantara Desert Islands Resort @ Sir Bani Yas for his birthday - he loved it there and I think it's something a bit different for the UAE, with lots of activities if you don't like just sitting around at the pool (we don't). That said, it is a long drive (a good 2.5 - 3 hours). Anantara also have Qasr Al Sarab in Liwa, but I don't like it as much as the Desert Island resort. It's a bit closer than Desert Island, though. If you want the desert dune scenery (which is stunning) this is it though, without the cost of Banyan Tree or Al Maha. A closer option for treat might be Banyan Tree in RAK, or one of the Fujairah hotels (Le Meridien, Radisson Blu, Miramar)? More locally, I think the One & Only resorts are lovely places to stay. <em>edited by laurelm on 28/04/2013</em>
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Latest post on 25 April 2013 - 15:09
Hi, thanks again for so many ideas. I am now a member of the Springs Facebook group and I am looking in to the Meadows book club. I didn't get back to the post for email addresses and we are not allowed to post them so I won't add mine either! I just can't make it to any EW events as I am always at work, or it is a family fun day, but I'll keep a look out in case there is anything else. I have been riding at Desert Palm. I really like it there - I tried the Jebel Ali one too, though it is miles into the desert, not at Jebel Ali. I prefer Desert Palm and they have great facilities. I'm a bit rubbish after just starting again after many years but I enjoy my hour exercise after work and it clears my head! I think lessons will stop soon for the summer. Thanks again for the ideas. I've heard Desert Palm is excellent, but I've yet to try it myself - I used to ride at a place in Al Ghusais. It's been a few years and I know I'm going to be quite rusty when I get back into it, too. I live in AR, so am thinking of trying the Polo & Equestrian Club out there - very close. Maybe post when you're looking to start lessons up again after summer - it would be nice to join a class with someone or meet someone there! I am always trying to get my SO to give it a go but I think he's a lost cause.
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Latest post on 25 April 2013 - 10:22
Hi, I know this has been answered before, but I thought I would try again! I have been here since September and I enjoy Dubai. I moved with my husband and we are both 31 and working here and are British. I have really struggled to make friends since I have been here though. I don't have children, so automatically that avenue is ruled out. I also work so I can't attend any coffee morning. I have made one or two friends at work, and I have been for a drink a few times. But I haven't made any others! I would love to have a few really good friends to go for coffee with on a Friday morning or lunch etc etc. I have taken up horse riding since here, but it is just me and 2 Arabic men in my lesson (!) I have been to the autodrome with my bike on Wednesdays, but I just ride and don't talk to people as people already go in groups. I am hoping to get good enough to go for the group rides, but I'm not there yet. I am a member of a gym but haven't randomly started a conversation......I'm not sure what else to do! I thought I could maybe try some of the gym classes. Does anyone have any suggestions of how I might get through this stage as I feel quite lonely.........Thanks! I have been here 5 years now, and with the exception of when I first arrived, where the situation reminded me of freshman year in college, I have had great difficulties meeting people. Like you, I don't have children and work all day, so many of the get-togethers are often not an option for me. Additionally, in my current job I work only with 2 other people, so meeting people through work isn't an option full of variety for me, either! I am however really interested to start horseback riding lessons again. Where do you ride? I was planning to start up again after summer, when the weather cools down.
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Latest post on 24 April 2013 - 09:58
No, not compulsory. My previous company did not pay for an annual flight home, but my current company does. However it's usually the cheapest flight they can find (fair enough, I suppose), and one that I'm not keen to submit to considering it's 16 hours for me to get home, not counting any added layovers. In this case, they generally give me the cash for the cost of the flight they would have purchased, then I put that cash towards purchasing the route/airline that I want. I don't go home every year though, and in this case again, they pay out the cash to me for the cost of the flight. On another note, I had no idea that exit flights were compulsory! Good to know.
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Latest post on 23 April 2013 - 10:38
DH loves turbulence.....like some kind of thrill ride. As do I! I feel awful getting enjoyment out of it though, knowing how it wrecks the nerves of many others, including some from my own family. Sorry I can't really offer any help to the OPs original request, but as others have already mentioned, the members of my family with a phobia of flying take xanax and seem to feel that it does help. <em>edited by laurelm on 23/04/2013</em>
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Latest post on 22 April 2013 - 15:49
Maybe American Eagle or Kingsley Heath?
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Latest post on 18 April 2013 - 12:46
I use the same tipping rules here that I used back home in the US, so tip hairdressers (on the rare occasions I go; I hate sitting in salons) 15-20% and the hair washer 10-20 dhs.
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Latest post on 15 April 2013 - 14:09
I think my Merrell walking shoes have Vibram soles - and got them in the Merrell shop in Dubai Mall. They have a pretty wide variety of walking boots, sandals, and lighter shoes (and possibly socks). Another shop worth checking out or calling might be Adventure HQ in Times Square. They seem to have a better selection of this kind of stuff than other shops around.
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Latest post on 14 April 2013 - 12:17
I think it varies from contract to contract, but often it is the case is that you owe 2 months rent to break the contract. That being said, I once broke a rental contract here that included the above penalty in the contract, but despite that fact, my landlord was very understanding (I had been there without any trouble for 2 years, but for personal reasons suddenly wanted to break my contract shortly after the start of my third year) and I was not penalized at all. He just let me go! (I now regret moving out, but that's another story) Hopefully it will go so easily for you, and if you live in an in-demand building that certainly helps matters.
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Latest post on 11 April 2013 - 13:01
A few years back I recall a dinner I had there, with wine, was around 2,000 dhs. No idea what it would be now, but I can only assume that it hasn't gotten any cheaper.
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Latest post on 02 April 2013 - 12:49
Ah gotcha, thanks! I've been over to the mall once, I think - I always forget it exists!
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Latest post on 02 April 2013 - 12:37
Hello! I am looking for an inexpensive (500 - 600 dhs max) used mountain bike. Have been trying Dubizzle but not having luck with finding one available or getting people to respond to me. If you have one you're looking to sell (men's or women's, I'm not really fussed) please let me know - particularly if you're located around the Downtown Dubai, Arabian Ranches or Umm Sequim areas. They have relatively cheap ones in the big sports shop in MCC Carrefour Sun and Sand warehouse at the back of the car registration place on SZR Thanks, I'll look into it. What's MCC?
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Latest post on 02 April 2013 - 11:43
Hello! I am looking for an inexpensive (500 - 600 dhs max) used mountain bike. Have been trying Dubizzle but not having luck with finding one available or getting people to respond to me. If you have one you're looking to sell (men's or women's, I'm not really fussed) please let me know - particularly if you're located around the Downtown Dubai, Arabian Ranches or Umm Sequim areas.
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Latest post on 28 March 2013 - 14:59
DH wants to go Hatta, but I read somewhere, you need a 4x4 to get there..we still have a rental car, normal nissan sunny. Lovely suggestion, thanks! I have one of those UAE Off Road books, and for the Hatta Pools trip (which I just did last weekend) it says that you can access with a normal car. The drive out proved that correct - it actually seemed like more roads had been paved or created since the book was published a couple years ago. That being said, I am not sure if we ended up in exactly the right place - the pools area was not nice. Graffiti and looked like a construction site (there were most definitely pools though, which people were swimming in). Anyway just kept on driving. Eventually went hiking around a nearby wadi/area called Shuwayyah, which was really nice.
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Latest post on 28 March 2013 - 09:05
I've done the half-day twice, never done the whole day. Found the half day very nice. For the half day (which I booked via Golden Tulip's tourism office) the dhow departed around 10am, and returned around 4pm. Plenty of time to relax, nice lunch caught, prepared and served, and a few opportunities to jump in and swim in different locations. If I ever wanted more time on the dhow, I'd probably skip the whole day tour, and do the overnight trip. [ETA: Hmmm...maybe those were whole day cruises, actually? Whatever they were, I thought the timing was just right.'> edited by laurelm on 28/03/2013 <em>edited by laurelm on 28/03/2013</em>
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Latest post on 27 March 2013 - 14:45
it seems that driving back to dubai over dibba is not possible any more? one post was deleted :-( how long is the drive from dubai to khasab? any other recommendations also welcome regarding excursions in khasab :-) That was my post! I deleted it, because pretty much as soon as I posted it, I realized that I was recalling a different route/drive that is no longer possible, not the one you mentioned. I believe as long as you don't try/need to go through the Wadi Bih checkpoint, you should not face issues. I agree about the morning boat trip as well - I've done it twice and saw lots of dolphins both times. I think I left Dubai around 4:30-5am to make it to Khasab in time for the morning departure? Both times was booked through the travel coordinator in the Golden Tulip.
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Latest post on 26 March 2013 - 12:16
It's a great day out but getting home can be an absolute nightmare. Don't be put off though; it's part of the experience! Have fun Are the shuttles buses any good? They tend to be well organised here I've found the shuttle buses to be pretty reasonable and well-organised. One of the quickest ways out, unless you leave early, and even then getting a taxi can't be guaranteed.
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Latest post on 26 March 2013 - 11:02
Muscat is definitely worth it, in my opinion. It's a really fantastic place, beautiful and would be my #1 recommendation. Liwa is OK, I've only been once, personally I don't know that I'd consider taking visitors there. The Qasr Al Sarab resort is nice...but I wasn't really wow'd. A couple other options I'd recommend are Fujairah (take visitors there a lot and everyone seems to enjoy it) or the Desert Island resort on Sir Bani Yas island is another great option, I think. It's got an animal reserve and is a pretty unique place for the region, IMO. what do you think, 2 or 3 days in Muscat. Have only been once and its long time ago, so cannot remember very well. what are the top sightseeing places there and can go go into the mountains near? I'd recommend 3 days (if you're driving). You can spend easily 2 nights in Muscat, then head back home via Nizwa, which is an interesting old town in the mountains (used to be the Omani capital) and continue driving through the mountains to return to Dubai. If you want to and have the time, there are plenty of wadis and mountain roads you can stop off at along the way. Alternatively you could do one in Muscat and another in Nizwa to get a head start back to Dubai, if there are areas you want to explore out that way. In Muscat, there's the Opera House, the corniche is beautiful with the old souq, you can head down to the Shangri La and stroll around (or stay there). Muscat is a pretty laid back and I just find it a nice place to relax in and casually explore. The Chedi is another good stop, whether you stay there (it's absolutely worth it, one of my all-time favorite hotels) or just head over for lunch or dinner or a drink.
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Latest post on 26 March 2013 - 10:43
Muscat is definitely worth it, in my opinion. It's a really fantastic place, beautiful and would be my #1 recommendation. Liwa is OK, I've only been once, personally I don't know that I'd consider taking visitors there. The Qasr Al Sarab resort is nice...but I wasn't really wow'd. A couple other options I'd recommend are Fujairah (take visitors there a lot and everyone seems to enjoy it) or the Desert Island resort on Sir Bani Yas island is another great option, I think. It's got an animal reserve and is a pretty unique place for the region, IMO.
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Latest post on 26 March 2013 - 09:16
Hi Sobevan, I hope I can help a little! 1. I like getting there as the races begin, maybe a bit earlier if I'm really feeling up for it (and if you want to snag a nice seat for yourself outside). I can't recall what time they all end at, though. Maybe around 8-9pm? 2. Nope, not in Apron Views. 3. It's basically in the Apron Views area. It starts pretty quickly after the final race and award is given. The concert and DJ stuff last for a few hours, until midnight-ish? Don't usually pay too much attention to time by then. 4. Yes. 5. Not sure. It can be a bit chaotic leaving at the end. There are shuttles that you can hop on though, that take you to various spots around town. [ETA: The final race - the Dubai World Cup - actually begins at 10:05pm. I'd imagine the concert to begin by 10:30-10:45.'> edited by laurelm on 26/03/2013 <em>edited by laurelm on 26/03/2013</em>
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Latest post on 07 March 2013 - 10:25
Yes, I think it's 200 dhs?
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Latest post on 04 March 2013 - 13:51
We all have different takes, and I love Ubud. There are museums, spas, a great market, lovely boutiques, cafes and restaurants. You can organize trips from there to other parts of the island. I spent a week there over Xmas and was not bored for a minute. I am going back for Easter and spending 10 days. Great place to chill, and tons of things to do! I agree, and wouldn't think a couple nights would be enough, personally. Ubud is one of my favorite places I've ever visited, without a doubt.
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Latest post on 27 February 2013 - 10:59
& here's a link to news on the Oman visa changes that were made last autumn, in case it's helpful: [url=http://www.thenational.ae/news/uae-news/trips-to-musandam-harder-with-stricter-uae-border-rules'>link[/url'>
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Latest post on 27 February 2013 - 10:16
I think this may just be relevant to Dibba (and possibly Khasab). While I'm unsure about Khasab, due to a recent Zighy Bay booking I made, I can confirm that entering via Dibba is not an option for a simple visa run or a day hike - booking confirmation needed and then the hotel needs to sort out your border crossing documents for you days prior to your arrival. However, just 2 weeks ago I popped over to Oman to hike for just a couple hours at the Al Buraimi border and it was business as usual. Unless something has changed in the past 2 weeks, I think you're fine to do a visa run unless you're heading to the Musandam portion. <em>edited by laurelm on 27/02/2013</em>
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Latest post on 26 February 2013 - 10:43
Remember, when buying a juicer, look for an extrator and not a plain juicer as with an extrator the remains should be more towards the dry side. Thanks for clarifying! I currently have an extractor, but never really knew what the difference was.
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Latest post on 26 February 2013 - 10:25
Ladies, I am so grateful for all of your suggestions... Thank you so much. I particularly like the eating recommendations. My husband and I are big foodies (and embarrassingly have a Food Network addiction.) Any other ideas welcome! :) There is nothing better than a holiday where you an dig into all sorts of great new food! If you happen to take that suggested route through Pittsburgh, you must get a Primanti's sandwich. They're ridiculous. My first food off the plane every time I go home. If you're a Food Network fan, you may have already seen them featured on "Man V Food" or any almost any show featuring US sandwiches.
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Latest post on 26 February 2013 - 10:12
That is a handy tip. When I started juicing, I got an average (at best) juicer as I didn't know if it would be something I'd stick with - but I have, and have also grown to loathe my juicer and fear on a daily basis that it's about to die on me. I actually have a Kenwood as well, but definitely not as nice yours, Ecochic. It's also an absolute pain to clean. I think I may have to have a look for your version! I'm also interested in the Cuisinart juicer that I've seen in Galeries Lafayette - any reviews? edited by laurelm on 26/02/2013 <em>edited by laurelm on 26/02/2013</em>
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Latest post on 25 February 2013 - 10:53
I second the mention of Philadelphia. I adore the city, and with its history it also makes for a good visit. If you're keen to head west to Kentucky and Tennessee, you could cross PA from Philli to Pittsburgh (5-hour drive if it's non-stop), along the way seeing the Amish and Dutch portions of PA, just outside of Philli. Once in the Pittsburgh area you check out Ohiopyle, which is gorgeous and home to a few Frank Lloyd Wright home, such as Fallingwater and Kentuck Knob. Note that for the former you need to book your reservations to view weeks in advance - but it's worth it. You can make it down to DC from there in about 4 hours if you like.
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Latest post on 22 February 2013 - 13:15
I heard such awful things about Kuta, I avoided it altogether when I went. I stayed in Lovina and Ubud. Absolute adored Ubud, and it wasn't too far out, perhaps about 1.5 hours in a bus - so quicker by car I'm sure.
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Latest post on 18 February 2013 - 12:41
Oh no, I just assumed that I would easily be able to pick up fly paper at the grocery store. Silly me! I'll let you know if I find any. Maybe Ace? I'm liking the sound of that electrical thing though, I think I'll try to arrange for one of those.