laurelm

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Latest post on 31 May 2012 - 11:04

I've noticed blankets from the local designer, Niftee, have been popular for Khaleeji baby gifts. She does personalized embroidery, etc. I've got some products from her and the quality (and packaging) is fabulous. http://niftee.ae/cashmere.aspx <em>edited by laurelm on 31/05/2012</em>

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Latest post on 30 May 2012 - 17:38

I lived in Al Owais for a couple years (just moved out a few months ago). I really liked my time there (plus the price couldn't be beat) and the only reason I moved was because it was taking ages for a 2-bed to open up and I needed more space than I was getting in a 1-bed. If something happens to open up in time for you, I'd recommend it. I do agree with the noise comment re the back (1-bed) flats though. Those refrigerated trucks that sat at Spinneys were the bane of my weekend mornings. Good luck with the hunt - I absolutely love that part of town and really miss it.

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Latest post on 30 May 2012 - 17:29

I second Merrell walking sandals. Super comfortable and hardy - they're cozy for normal walking, great for exploring wadis and even sorted me out well in the Himalayas when I couldn't bear trekking in boots anymore.

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Latest post on 28 May 2012 - 13:05

I think it's quite nice and, as said, in a gorgeous setting. I've been for breakfast, and while I don't have kids, I think it would be fine for them. Really hoping to make a return trip this weekend for lunch!

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Latest post on 28 May 2012 - 13:00

My personal favorites are Magnolia Bakery's in Bloomingdales Dubai Mall...although I think many people will not agree with me that they're "the best". I just love their buttercream icing more than any other I've tried!

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Latest post on 02 May 2012 - 10:49

I went for breakfast a few weeks ago and enjoyed it; fresh-tasting, nice food. Coming from AR distance wasn't too bad either. Nice setting, peaceful, lush greenery. For breakfast (around 8am?) the place was not-surprisingly empty but the wait staff was really kind of nagging/rushing us when it came to ordering ASAP. That annoyed me. I cannot stand hovering staff. Otherwise no complaints and I'm looking forward to try a return visit for lunch or dinner, hopefully with wine soon!

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Latest post on 30 April 2012 - 09:40

I find that SCB is good with checking up on big and/or foreign purchases to confirm their validity. Usually a within minutes after booking a foreign hotel online (like when a hotel will take out a dollar or something to confirm your card is valid) I'll get a call to verify that it was me using that card. I also get an SMS each time money i taken out or a card is utilized. Sometimes I wish the bank wasn't so on the ball, though! I find that even after I contact the bank and have them put a note on my cards that I will be overseas using my card in "X" country over "X" dates, I'll still get phone calls from them verifying that it's me (which is a nuisance as I prefer to keep my mobile switched off during holiday). Unfortunately, I recently missed one of these calls after purchasing train tickets in Switzerland, and unable to answer my phone whilst running to a train with armloads of snowboarding gear, they shut down my debit card. So, for the next week+, and after many calls to my bank to try to get my card unblocked (they insisted the block wasn't on their end), AFTER I finally arrive back in Dubai after a whole holiday without any money (I owe much thanks to my SO for covering for me), & complain to the bank yet again they finally admit that yes, they did indeed block my card, and would I like it unblocked? AHH

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Latest post on 29 April 2012 - 12:00

Was also wondering if you can do Khasab as a day trip (driving ourselves)? Is there a particular time of the year which is better for seeing dolphins? The last time we went to Musandam, we specifically went for to see the dolphins, but went to the wrong 'side' i.e. Dibba and there are no dolphins there. Yes, you can do it as a day trip - at least I have done. Get to driving pretty much at the crack of dawn and made it to Khasab for the morning take off of the cruise. Cruise finished in the (mid?)afternoon and made it back to Dubai by early evening. It was a long day, but not awful. I've also done the cruises in summer and late winter, and while I saw dolphins both times, I recall seeing many more dolphins during the summer trip. Now, whether that had to do with the season, the fact there were less dhows out & about, or simply coincidence, I couldn't tell you.

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Latest post on 18 April 2012 - 13:04

I recently moved from Satwa to Arabian Ranches and am still looking for a new "go-to" curry delivery. Does anyone know if these people will deliver to AR? I'm guessing it might be a bit far for that? I used to live in the Springs and they delivered there, so I'm sure AR won't be a problem Oh wow, great! Thanks for the tip!

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Latest post on 18 April 2012 - 12:52

I recently moved from Satwa to Arabian Ranches and am still looking for a new "go-to" curry delivery. Does anyone know if these people will deliver to AR? I'm guessing it might be a bit far for that?

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Latest post on 18 April 2012 - 11:27

Every time I buy that (outrageously-priced) ticket back home to the states and a city that I never even liked, or miss, to begin with, all I can think about are the travels in Asia I could do to places I've never been for a fraction of the cost of that flight alone. Best not to think about too much.

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Latest post on 17 April 2012 - 09:30

If I could just get rid of the Blackberry... it does have an "off" button - it even has an auto off button where it turns itself off and a certain time; :) I can't...it's work-issued - if it was a personal BB, then sure! And I always have to be on-call for the police in case the alarm goes off after-hours. Let me tell you, those 2am phone calls and drives into work are a joy. I work in an extraordinarily small team of people and being out of touch really isn't an option, sadly. But I do get to turn my mobile off when I'm on holiday...which is just 3 weeks away now.

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Latest post on 17 April 2012 - 09:22

Been in Dubai a while(ish) but also very recently moved to AR, & am without kids. Was hoping to meet some people and hopefully be a bit more social there. Hasn't happened yet, but would look forward to meeting some people when my current work schedule chills out and finally allows!

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Latest post on 17 April 2012 - 09:18

...when people back home comment on the tax free salary i do feel that i earn every dirham....I have never worked as long or as hard as i have here in dubai. Absolutely, 100%!

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Latest post on 17 April 2012 - 09:15

I work 9-6 Sun-Thurs, but I am almost always in at 8am or shortly thereafter and just as often stay later than 6. & I have to work this Saturday to prep for an event (& when we have an event I usually work 8am - 9 or 10pm). I do find the hours quite long (I def worked less in the states), and even without children I find little time to myself and to really get stuff done for myself (on weekdays); I can't even imagine trying to fit a child in. Then even outside of the office, it's just never-ending with the Blackberry. If I could just get rid of the Blackberry...

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Latest post on 16 April 2012 - 11:01

You may also want to check out the preview for the upcoming Christie's auction (Modern & Contemporary Arab, Iranian and Turkish Art) in Emirates Towers. I'm not sure if today is the final day of the preview, but I went last night and it was quite good. And with it being Christie's you know the selection is of high pedigree. The auctions (on April 17-18) are also open to the public, if you're keen. The Ara Gallery, on April 22-23 will also have a fundraising exhibition/auction that includes artworks, while not necessarily "famous", have been created by established, well-known artists from the region such as AbdulQader Al Rais and Dr Najat Makki. I kind of get the feeling what you might be looking for is more a museum than an art gallery - as you're interested to see famous items and not necessarily in a commercial setting. Unfortunately, I can't recommend anything like that. The British Museum has a show (Treasures of the World's Cultures) touring currently which will stop in Abu Dhabi this May-July, which may interest you. Looks great, I'm really looking forward to it personally! I can never get enough of ancient artifacts! Hope you find something you enjoy and if so, please do share!

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Latest post on 10 April 2012 - 13:57

I went in early July and it was pretty brutal, heat-wise. I was able to to stick it out by the pool, but too much walking around or going out into the desert wasn't really an option (I tried, and suffered). However, if you just want to relax and will be mainly indoors, I think you'll be fine.

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Latest post on 05 March 2012 - 11:59

Nice suggestion in Munnar, had not come across that one yet! I have also been considering Blackberry Hills in Munnar ([url=http://www.blackberryresorts.com/munnar.html'>link[/url'>)...hmmm

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Latest post on 05 March 2012 - 11:52

The Chedi! Ultra relaxing. And one of their pools is no-kids-allowed, a bonus if you're looking for a kid-free weekend.

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Latest post on 05 March 2012 - 08:06

I haven't any advice, but am planning a similar trip in early May - but knocking out Goa to spend more time in inland Kerala in the Ghats and tea & spice plantations. I'm particularly curious about opinions on Varkala as well, though. I hope you enjoy and I'll be curious to hear your review after you return!

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Latest post on 29 February 2012 - 09:56

You certainly don't need to get really dressed up, but most do. I've decided to go a bit OTT this year and can't wait. I love dressing up, though. Any excuse. As for tickets, the past 2 years I've had access to much of the venue, from Apron Views to premium seats & Sky Bubble and I always just end up spending the majority of my time in Apron Views. It feels much more interesting and upbeat out there, with A+ people-watching as said, so this year have just opted for AV tix - & personally that's what I'd recommend.

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Latest post on 28 February 2012 - 14:14

I landed in the early evening, after the sun had set and simply rented a car from the airport and drove down to the hotels in that area. It wasn't too bad at all, but I recall having to look quite carefully for the turnoff towards the Dead Sea from the main highway off the airport. I wasn't there that long ago, yet I cannot for the life of me remember how long the drive was?! Maybe around an hour?

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Latest post on 28 February 2012 - 13:08

The only place I've eaten at in BAS was the Indian restaurant (forget the name) and while it was incredibly delicious and I've been dying to go back, I am not sure I'd call it romantic. Thought the restaurant itself was nicely designed...just quiet and kinda dead/lacking atmosphere. Bear in mind I was there for lunch and in mid-summer at that.

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Latest post on 28 February 2012 - 10:26

I know, it's bizarre! I never used to have any trouble finding it, but over the past month or so - absolutely no luck. At least not in any of my usual Spinneys, Carrefours or Park n Shop.

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Latest post on 27 February 2012 - 09:17

I favor NKD Pizza and Pizzaro! Unfortunately, I only know of the 1 Pizzaro in Downtown Dubai, though. I haven't had an 800 Pizza in ages - I'll have to give it a try again after seeing so many recommend it here. I really miss my hometown/stateside pizzas (& hoagies/grinders!!) though. I've yet to really find anything that quite compares here. *sigh*

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Latest post on 22 February 2012 - 15:36

I started doing it about a year and a half ago (never thought I'd ever be one to diet, but that Dubai stone got me good) and it was rough to start but I didn't give in and kept at it quite diligently for a good 9-10 months, over which period I lost 21 pounds (slightly more than I gained after I moved to Dubai, although still not as skinny as my glory days). Anyway, at that point I was pretty happy with my weight and able to keep it stable following my own personal rules (protein mostly diet on 2-3 days during the work-week; eat sensibly/moderately the other weekdays; weekends or when on holiday go mad on whatever grub I want), but due to food-heavy holidays piling up on each other and laziness, I've gained about 6-7 lbs back and have been struggling to get rid of them again for several months now (I just love to eat far too much). The past couple weeks I've been trying to be more serious about it again, and so far good results - just another 3 pounds to go. *fingers crossed* The last few pounds are SUCH a struggle to get rid of, I find. It's also much easier to do this diet when those you're living with are on it, I personally felt (I suppose that's probably true for all diets, tho). While my SO was trying it, I was able to stick to the regime pretty easily; when he became more lax or at times, would simply quit, I had a much harder time continuing dieting while delicious, creamy curry was coming through the door.

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Latest post on 21 February 2012 - 09:24

I agree with Egg - Hunger Games was fun. Not my usual type of read, but perfect for easy reading material on flights and trains! Currently I'm reading "Infinite Jest" by David Foster Wallace. Off-beat, but very good. I just wish I had more time to read, I miss tearing through books like I used to.

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Latest post on 19 February 2012 - 08:43

My SO registered his Kindle with a UK account/home address and I registered mine with a US account/home address. I haven't had any issues with purchases on my US account, however his Kindle will send him messages every now and again noting that he needs to switch his account to the country he resides in (ie. the UAE) at which point he then has trouble purchasing books. This has happened a few times and needless to say, is aggravating. I don't know if anyone else has had this problem with purchasing books while in the UAE from the UK store and how they got around it? If it's a not uncommon problem with the UK store, might be something to consider when deciding between US & UK accounts.

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Latest post on 16 February 2012 - 15:04

I use a supermarket dye it's volcano red and just redo my roots very 4-6weeks. Always looks bright I also use John Frieda shampoo and conditioner for red hair it seems to keep the colour vibrant. I've never used the shampoos or conditions specific to red hair - how are they supposed to help, are they tinted red? I've been interested to give it a try, but I have platinum streaks in my hair and don't want them going pink or orange if there is any tint or color to the shampoo. I dont use ones specific to my hair colour either. Personally apart from the purple shampoo to stop my blond hair going brassy none of them acutally work or keep my colour longer than my normal salon visits at 4 weeks ( They arent tinted either) :-) They are marketed to supposedly keep your hair colour shinier for longer. Be careful if you are thinking of using home dyes. I too am very light blond and have had some home disasters with shop bought colours. :( Yeah, I learnt my lesson the hard way in college about dying brights color over blonde in DIY mode. I am definitely more cautious now! I just despise sitting in the salon so much, I am always looking for ways to get out of going more than I absolutely need to. I have a nice auburn base to work off of now, it's just a matter of keeping it a more vibrant red.

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Latest post on 16 February 2012 - 14:42

I use a supermarket dye it's volcano red and just redo my roots very 4-6weeks. Always looks bright I also use John Frieda shampoo and conditioner for red hair it seems to keep the colour vibrant. I've never used the shampoos or conditions specific to red hair - how are they supposed to help, are they tinted red? I've been interested to give it a try, but I have platinum streaks in my hair and don't want them going pink or orange if there is any tint or color to the shampoo.

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Latest post on 16 February 2012 - 14:26

It's a real pain! I'm a dark brunette who spent the past few years as a blonde, recently got tired of the root upkeep, got my hair dyed red (hah, I hate my natural color) and now face a never-ending battle of red upkeep. I expected it, as I spent many years red when I was younger, but it seems to fade far more quickly here. I feel that every 3-4 weeks I need a color refresher to keep it from going dull auburn. I can't be bothered to head back to the salon [i'>again[/i'>, so this weekend am giving that Koleston color-intense foam (in volcano red) a go. I've heard good things. If you're interested in possibly doing some at-home upkeep I'll let you know how this stuff works out for me.

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Latest post on 16 February 2012 - 11:37

6 ounces Monterrey jack, 2 ounces pepper jack, 2 ounces cheddar, 2 ounces fontina (or velveeta, just helps make a nice creamy texture). The cheeses are pretty basic, I know, but after years and dozens of tries, this is my personal fave combination! I have a second recipe where I use 12 different cheeses, and while good, it's a bit over-the-top and far more unhealthy with the other ingredients involved, In the end I prefer the simpler recipe, actually!

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Latest post on 16 February 2012 - 08:34

I think Rivington Grill in Souk Al Bahar is pretty good. Haven't been, but have heard good things about Thiptara in The Palace. They would definitely have excellent views as the restaurant pretty much juts out into the lake.

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Latest post on 15 February 2012 - 11:50

The drive is boring, yes, but really not that bad. About 3 hours if I remember correctly? Definitely do-able in 1 go. That aside, I don't recall much of [i'>anything[/i'> between Abu Dhabi city and Sir Bani Yas, let alone a decent hotel. I recall it being quite barren until you get to Jebel Dhanna anyway, which is where the launch is to board the boat to Sir Bani Yas (although I went back in 2008 & my memory is not awesome). <em>edited by laurelm on 15/02/2012</em>

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Latest post on 15 February 2012 - 08:24

As also mentioned by Amelia, that spot by Magrudy's in Jumeirah is worth checking out. There are also a couple places in the same building as S*uce in Jumeirah that I've recalled browsing for hats, too (I think even S*uce gets some in as the DWC approaches). I ended up ordering online this year though, from a milliner in the UK - Bundle Maclaren. Nice (fun) styles and reasonable prices, if you're willing to order sight unseen.

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Latest post on 14 February 2012 - 14:52

Jordan is lovely, it's actually where I celebrated my birthday last year, as well! I went in November, which I thought was a bit cold, particularly in Petra where in the mornings I could see my breath, so I am betting the September weather is spot-on pleasant. At the Dead Sea we stayed in the Movenpick, which I had no complaints about. Rooms comfortable, staff pleasant, nice traditional design/setting as well. Happy to recommend. In Petra we stayed at some random place that I don't even recall the name of, very near to the entrance of the site, but I wouldn't recommend it. When we weren't sleeping or in the site, we spent our time drinking and eating in the Movenpick, which seemed pretty nice to me. We also popped into the Crown Plaza, also near the site's entrance, which was basically a ghost town and kind of depressing (great views though). I generally steer clear of tours, so can't offer any help there. We simply rented a car from the airport and drove ourselves around at our own pace; stopped at some Crusader forts between the Dead Sea and Petra and felt it was pretty easy to get around, and a very pleasant way of seeing the country.

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Latest post on 14 February 2012 - 09:05

Satwa! You can easily find a variety of them in the button shops like Fida near the grand mosque in Satwa.

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Latest post on 13 February 2012 - 11:35

Ah, reading this has put my mind at a bit of ease! A few months back I renewed my lease (for the 3rd time) but am now feeling a major itch to move (...to RAK?!) and have been wondering how I might go about breaking the lease early, if even possible at all. Best of luck to anyone else having a go at ending their lease early!

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Latest post on 13 February 2012 - 08:23

Hello! I'm not sure if you're still on the look out for a class, but The Ara Gallery has Arabic calligraphy classes starting from April! Deets -> [url=http://thearagallery.ae/workshops-talks/'>link[/url'>

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