Lettie | ExpatWoman.com
 

Lettie

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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 July 2014 - 16:48
The laws in South Africa have changed regarding visas etc. Maybe this news article will make it more clear for you: http://www.timeslive.co.za/local/2014/06/10/travel-alert-for-parents
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Latest post on 06 July 2014 - 23:29
I saw some at MOE last week. I can't remember if I saw it at The One or Marina or both. It was the Leather Master brand.
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Latest post on 29 June 2014 - 23:29
Thank you Busybee2. I saw a lot of references to Dr Berger, but I assumed he will be very busy as all the different recommendations I saw on Google was for him. I am on Warfarin which make it difficult to get if the doctor is not at a hospital. I will have a look at doctors at Al Noor.
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Latest post on 29 June 2014 - 16:21
Thank you for your recommendation, but unfortunately I am now in Abu Dhabi and not in Dubai anymore. I try to get doctors in Abu Dhabi as I don't want to drive to Dubai every time I need a doctor (which is unfortunately quite often). I will still drive to Dubai to see the doctors I only have to see very 3 months. It is a bit far for general problems that occur in between.
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Latest post on 25 June 2014 - 09:51
After 4 years in Dubai I also moved to AD. I enjoy AD much more than Dubai, but I think it depends a lot on your personality. It is a lot more quiet than Dubai and more relaxed. I find the weather also better. You will find a lot of different groups to join here to get you going and meeting new people. The people are also friendlier and it is easier to meet new people. The rent is higher than Dubai, but the utilities are lower, especially water and electricity. I would say food is also cheaper, but it is sometimes more difficult to find specific items. I am sure it is available here, but I am still exploring the different shops, maybe I just have to find the right shop/shopping mall. The malls are smaller than in Dubai and not so easily accessible as in Dubai. Where do you plan to live? I moved from the very busy Marina to quiet 'island life' and it is bliss! The traffic is a dream compared to Dubai, but it also depends on where you live. To live outside of AD is nice and quiet, but it is a bit isolated. If you drive it is not a problem. The only thing I miss from Dubai is the Metro. The bus fares are really cheap, but it feels as if the taxis are more expensive. Sorry, I didn't give any tips or advice, but I just want to let you now that AD is actually very nice. In the end, it depends on you whether you will enjoy AD or not. Come with an open mind and enjoy life here! <em>edited by Lettie on 25/06/2014</em>
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Latest post on 04 March 2014 - 22:08
My only visit to Mauritius was in September and the weather was good. I didn't swim in the ocean so I don't know the temperature of the seawater, but we were in the pool a few times and it was pleasant.
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Latest post on 25 February 2014 - 08:30
I saw a shop selling Pentax products at Wafi Mall. I didn't go in to see their selection but made a mental note of it as we also have Pentax cameras.
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Latest post on 23 February 2014 - 06:58
I saw this in the news: http://news.cnet.com/8301-1035_3-57619331-94/whats-up-whatsapp-facebooks-$19b-baby-hit-by-outage/
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Latest post on 28 January 2014 - 18:26
I suffered badly from asthma as a child, but was asthma free for 30 years until I moved to Dubai. For me it is the humidity that is the killer. It is better during the winter months, but as soon as the humidity picks up my asthma is a problem again. I am on medication now to keep it under control. Here I have less problems with hay fever than back home, because of the higher humidity.
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Latest post on 19 January 2014 - 21:10
I didn't look for anything particular, but Jashanmal in Al Ghurair has a lot of specials. Maybe worth a look. At some stage Jashanmal in MOE had a special on their Le Creuset, buy 2 and get the 3rd for free (or something like that). Le Creuset is expensive but worthwhile. Mine is between 15 and 20 years old.
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Latest post on 12 January 2014 - 08:56
I have both the Kindle with a keyboard and the Paperwhite. They are both very nice, but the Paperwhite is very convenient for using at night. It is also a bit smaller and easier to hold. It also opens the book the moment you open the cover as would be the case with a real book. I am sure I saw Kindles at Sharaff DG. Mine was bought from Amazon in the US and I can't comment on the downloading of books, as we only use Amazon (US) for the books.
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Latest post on 12 January 2014 - 08:48
First you have to find out what causes your stuffed nose. Most probable is that you have an allergy that causes it. I speak from experience. Many different things can cause an allergy that blocks your nose. I suggest you go and see Dr. Makki Shuker the ENT and Dr. Mina the Allergist. (Sorry, I can never remember her surname) at Dubai London Clinic. Once the cause is identified, the blocked nose can be treated successfully. I only use otrivin in extreme cases. It can be mostly controlled by avoiding the allergens where possible. Prolonged use is not only addictive, but it can also be damaging to your nose. I also use a saline spray twice a day, an antihistamine and Flixonase daily which keeps everything in control. Good luck.
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Latest post on 28 November 2013 - 13:58
I don't know the South African physio brothers you are asking about, but I know of a very good SA physio in Dubai which I can recommend. He is at PhysioArt in Jumeirah Beach Plaza. I think their number is 043856677. If no one else know the brother's contact details, maybe Marcel can help.
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Latest post on 23 November 2013 - 22:41
DH surprised me with a Paperwhite and I am very happy with it. He also bought me the leather cover which works very well. It protects it and it feels like a book. When you open the cover it turns the Kindle on immediately unlike the older ones which you have to switch on. It is very nice to read in bed as you don't need a light. It comes with a USB charger, but I prefer a charger you can plug into a wall plug. I don't have a stylus and I don't miss it. I don't think you need a screen protector if you have a cover.
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Latest post on 12 November 2013 - 11:37
I don't know about the day/night creams, but I know that Geant in IBN stocks Neutrogena products. They may have it.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 11 November 2013 - 16:33
It depends what you need it for. The On-Time offices in the Shams sector at JBR handles some Ejari services. You can register for Ejari there for example.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 11 November 2013 - 16:08
Maybe you could try any Life Pharmacy. I saw an advertisement poster for acai berries in the window of a Real Pharmacy (Life Pharmacy) at JBR. I assume it would be for the tablets.
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Latest post on 04 November 2013 - 11:54
That is strange, Sephoras never refused to give me samples of foundations. Last week they gave me samples of Dior foundation and today they gave me samples for Shiseido foundation. It is difficult for me to get the correct shade so they decant some in containers of the the two most probable shades so that I can decide on the correct shade at home. They were always extremely helpful.
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Latest post on 03 November 2013 - 22:30
I can recommend Essa Beauty in JLT . For me the search for a good facial ended when I discovered Lydia at Essa. She also employed two other therapists a few months ago. I had two facials with Dani and is also very happy with her. I have no experience with Jess so I can't comment on her, but I am sure Lydia would not have employed her if she was not good as Lydia has very high standards. http://essabeauty.com/
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Latest post on 03 November 2013 - 22:20
That is good news! The first step is behind you and for me that was the most difficult step because I didn't know what to expect. Now it is a bit of relaxation before you take the next step and before you know it, all the steps are behind you! Good luck with the rest of the process. Stay positive.
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Latest post on 27 October 2013 - 11:00
Best of luck. Also had a recent cancer diagnosis in our family (cervical) and know about all the prodding and poking. Its just terrible. [b'>MIL went the holistic route (vitamin cocktail iv drips daily for a month and acupunture regularly) instead of doing chemo [/b'>and her cancer seems to be gone now. I will send a prayer for your sister. You all must be mentally and emotionally exhausted. Steve Jobs also went with the 'natural way' and used supplements etc. and didn't go for chemo. It is a dangerous road to take. As a cancer survivor myself, I would not recommend it. You can use the supplements etc. to ease the side effects of chemo (although my one oncologist was totally against it), but it is not a good idea to not do the chemo if that is what the oncologist recommends. My oncologist gave me the option for the chemo as it was not strictly necessary, but it was an 'insurance policy' and I decided to fight the cancer with everything available to be on the safe side. I am not sorry for doing it this way. At least I know if the cancer comes back it was not because I was not doing everything in my power to get rid of it. The chemo was not easy, but it also was not as bad as I thought it was going to be. Rather safe than sorry. Alismum, I am sorry to hear about your sister. I will be thinking about her. <em>edited by Lettie on 27/10/2013</em>
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Latest post on 06 October 2013 - 19:26
No you don't need to do the driving test, you can just convert it. <em>edited by Lettie on 06/10/2013</em>
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Latest post on 29 September 2013 - 16:27
Dally, I am sorry to hear your news. I just want to tell you that I am still clear after 10 years. Breast cancer is not the end of the world or your life. Just take one day at a time and stay positive, it makes it so much easier if you are positive. Look at it as a challenge that you know you are going to overcome and then do everything it takes to do so. To be honest, it was not as bad as I thought it would be. Take it step by step and don't think about the whole process at the moment. Arm yourself with information, but don't let it overwhelm you. Don't worry about the second step before you finished the first step. That way you don't feel overwhelmed by the treatment, but you feel as if you accomplished something after every step. Good luck. We at EW are always here to listen when you need an ear and if you want to talk to me, you are welcome, just let me know.
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Latest post on 26 September 2013 - 19:10
I don't know about neck & shoulder pain, but Marcel Schmidt at PhysioArt restored my faith in physiotherapists as he sorted my elbow after I struggled with it for a year. PhysioArt is in Jumeirah Beach Plaza in Beach Rd. Marcel is not only physiotherapist, he is also a qualified biokineticist. He also gave me a good exercise program for my elbow problems which helped a lot. I think their number is 04 3856677. (Dr Badsha referred met to him and I never phoned to make an appointment so I am not sure about the number).
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Latest post on 20 September 2013 - 11:36
Another option is to do classes to learn how to design your own patterns at the Dubai International Art Centre for example: http://www.artdubai.com/courses/draping-garments-with-tsufa-bijelic http://www.artdubai.com/courses/pattern-drafting-with-tsufa-bijelic I don't know if the drafting class started, but the draping class will start this Tuesday if they can find another student. I would like to do this class, but they said they need at least 3 students and we are only 2 at the moment.
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Latest post on 20 September 2013 - 11:30
Craftland has knitting patterns. You can also find a lot of books at World of Books in Dubai Mall with knitting patterns. You can also buy the Burda magazines at most stores that sell magazines.
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Latest post on 20 September 2013 - 11:27
You can find some patterns at Craftland. I found this website, but haven't used it: http://voguepatterns.mccall.com/patterns--fabrics-and-notions-pages-360.php What size are you, I have a cabinet full of patterns and can maybe help you.
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Latest post on 20 September 2013 - 10:25
For sewing and quilting classes you can look at these websites: http://www.artdubai.com/ http://www.mycraftland.com/
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Latest post on 19 September 2013 - 07:42
Yes there is a lift at the JLT station. Once you crossed SZR and turned the corner you will find the lift to your left close to the escalators.
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Latest post on 18 September 2013 - 17:00
If you are willing to go to Deira, there is a shop that sells wool wholesale. I don't know what the quality is like, I just saw a lot of wool in the shop. http://www.mab1925.com/ContactUs.html
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Latest post on 18 September 2013 - 15:05
Why don't you go to the Organic Cafe and buy ready made gluten free goodies there? I am sure you will find something suitable. I bought some cookies there before and if I remember correctly there was a good selection. Geant also have gluten free products in their organic section.
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Latest post on 18 September 2013 - 11:20
sounds lovely and just what we need - been so busy trying to set up home would love a weekend away ;-) may I ask where you booked? I am so used to a travel agent doing all our stuff but here they dont really seem to understand DH book directly on the hotel's website. We never go through agents.
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Latest post on 18 September 2013 - 10:50
we dont have kids so the waldorf sounds more for adults? I would rather go for the Waldorf if you don't have kids. The hotel is nicer and more relaxed because there are less kids around.
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Latest post on 18 September 2013 - 10:17
We went to the Hilton Resort and Spa for a long weekend. It was very nice but crowded. I don't know how busy it would be over a normal weekend. The rooms were nice (we were in the 'villas') and was suppose to have our own sun loungers, but other people occupied it. The pools are very nice and kid-friendly. I personally prefer the Waldorf, but it I think it is in a different price range and not as kid-friendly as the Hilton.
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Latest post on 18 September 2013 - 09:44
We went there last weekend and were very impressed. The service levels were very good. A personal concierge was assigned to us for our stay, which we never needed to use. All the staff were very friendly and very proud of the hotel. When I asked for rye bread without too much wheat, they offered me the nicest gluten free bread I have ever eaten. I will go back for the bread only! Only a few of the planned restaurants are open at this stage. We ate at the Lexington Grill, DH loved his steak, but I was not impressed with mine. The manager insisted to replace all my food although I said it was not necessary. The second night we ate the buffet at Qasr Al Bahar which I enjoyed more. We loved going to the Camelia Tea Lounge after our dinner for one of their more than 200 teas. The room was spacious and very elegant. We stayed in the King Deluxe Room with a sea view which has a very nice balcony were we spend a lot of time. There is a lot of attention to detail for example the small floor light in the toilet at night. I really liked the hotel and would like to go back for more visits!
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Latest post on 10 September 2013 - 18:53
My last appointment with him at Medcare was cancelled because of his leave and when I phoned again a month later they also told me he has left Medcare and that they don't know where he is now. When I phoned Wellcare they told me he is still on leave.
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Latest post on 10 September 2013 - 18:32
I don't think it is only Carrefour, the costs of my weekly shopping at Geant also went up sharply. Within one week the peaches went up more than Aed 10 per kilo.
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Latest post on 10 September 2013 - 18:28
He is still at Wellcare. I phone once a month in an attempt to see him, but three weeks ago I was again told that he is still on emergency leave in India and they don't know when he will be back again.
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Latest post on 09 September 2013 - 19:55
This is the website address that is on the side of the building: albateen.me I would not like to live in that tower as the access to it is going to be a nightmare. It would be easier to get there than to leave, as there is no easy way to get back to the main roads.
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Latest post on 03 September 2013 - 10:16
We bought some nice wine glasses at Villeroy & Boch at the Outlet Mall for a very reasonable price. I don't know what the prices would be like in the MOE outlet.
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Latest post on 14 August 2013 - 16:27
Another oats idea: 50g rolled oats 1 tablespoon sultanas/raisins 1 tablespoon pumpkin/sunflower seeds 1 tablespoon chopped almonds 25g dried apricots (chopped) 2 tablespoons orange/apple juice 2 small apples grated 3 tablespoons milk Just mix and enjoy. It is enough for 2 portions. I usually mix double/triple the dry ingredients and store it in the fridge for later use. Every morning I just grate the apple and mix it with 60g (+/- per portion) of the mixture and the juice. I leave the milk out. It is yummy, very filling and low GI.
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Latest post on 07 August 2013 - 18:55
It is strange as the RTA says the taxis will operate at 95% over the weekend: http://www.emirates247.com/news/emirates/eid-holidays-dubai-metro-till-2am-8-000-taxis-on-road-free-parking-2013-08-06-1.516759 They say the taxis will concentrate around malls etc. but at 5am?
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Latest post on 07 August 2013 - 18:32
Craftland in Town Centre has everything you need for knitting, but is on the expensive side. Another shop where you can buy knitting supplies is this one: http://www.mab1925.com/HomePage.html They are much cheaper, but I have not buy any wool there and therefore I can't vouch for the quality.
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Latest post on 01 August 2013 - 06:59
You can try your local clinic but I am not sure whether they will do it. Before I bought my own device to do my INR I used to go to Dubai London Clinic. Recently I went to Medcare to check the accuracy of my device and they were willing to do it. Wellcare and Mediclinic were not willing to do it without seeing a doctor. Just keep in mind that the laboratory will not do the dosage, you have to get that done by a doctor. Maybe you can arrange with her normal laboratory to phone them and they can still do the dosage. The cost is anything between Aed 120 and Aed 150. You have to remind them to give you the results the same day. If you don't tell them, they will take up to 4 days to give you the result which is useless. I suggest you get a letter from her doctor/the laboratory to make sure they will do it. Good luck, INR testing in Dubai is very frustrating!
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Latest post on 28 July 2013 - 15:30
I go to Essa Beauty Salon in JLT. You will find recommendations for Lydia at Essa if you use the Search function on the forum. I tried her after reading on the forum about her. I am very happy with her. I also like the ladies doing the mani/pedicures. The salon is clean and the ladies are good.
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Latest post on 28 July 2013 - 15:23
I bought something similar at Hairworks in JBR some time ago.
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Latest post on 04 July 2013 - 08:04
Try Ulla Popken in Dubai Marina Mall. I like their style of clothes and sometimes wish it will fit me. Have a look at their website and see if you like the style and whether it is elegant enough. http://www.ullapopken.com/
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Latest post on 02 July 2013 - 15:39
I don't have any experiences of tailors in Dubai/Satwa, but in the July issue of the new consumer magazine GOOD, there is a comparison of five tailors in Dubai, with photos of replica dresses made by the five tailors. Unfortunately only one is in Satwa (Deepa's), but it may give you an idea of the quality of the work of the different tailors and the prices you can expect to pay. The magazine in question is this one: http://motivatepublishing.com/magazines/good/
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Latest post on 01 July 2013 - 09:44
I just saw this article in the Friday this morning. Have a look, there are still a few things I would like to do. http://gulfnews.com/life-style/travel/the-insider-s-guide-to-dubai-1.1202644
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Latest post on 22 June 2013 - 09:41
Where in JBR are you? Costa Coffee is on the Amwaj and Shams side. If you cross the road to the marina side where they are building the tram station, you go down the stairs to the Marina and then turn right. You will find Costa Coffee not very far from the stairs. If you cross the road at the roundabout in front of Amwaj/Shams, you go left and down to the Marina at the first opportunity. You turn left once you are down and will find Costa just after the Lebanese restaurant. HTH