LovelyLilies | ExpatWoman.com
 

LovelyLilies

LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 April 2013 - 18:15
Weekend at Bab al shams or Banyan Tree
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 April 2013 - 17:58
I'd suggest you come over here for couple of days with you OH to see the place. We did come out first with my DH before he accepted his offer, went out to carre4 and spinneys to check the prices, went out for drinks and dinner (seemed way too expensive!), and then decided to move here. The medical insurance is very important (check whether it includes dental and eye care). I'd also suggest renting a car until you settle in, and decide if you want a new or second hand car. Most of the places are unfurnished so you will need money to do that. It might be useful to check whether his company would provide the accommodation for him when he moves out here (at least to start with), also if they offer housing allowance or loan (my DH's job gave us the cheque for 1years rent and deducted from his salary each month which was great as it meant we did not need to have funds to pay rent for 1 year) The groceries are fine, the prices have gone up but it's normal. As long as you are willing to buy local brands, not only the stuff you are used to buying back home (ie yogurt or milk) We spend between 20-25k amonth (10k for rent - 2bed apartment in the marina, 2-3k groceries and booze, 1k dewa, another 1k goes to tv, internet and mobiles, 3k car loan and insurance, 500 petrol, the rest goes on sports (like golf) and activities, going out and clothes - which we rarely buy here anyway). The rest (which is around 40%) we save.. Of course, if you travel it will cost you extra and the flights from here are not cheap, however, we earn tax free salary so you need to take this into consideration when you wonder why you are paying for some things more. Another thing to check for your OH is whether his company will be providing him with travel allowance for him and his wife-to-be (same as insurance should be for you too when you guys get married) I hope it gives you some idea about life and expenses over here :) Oh, I did not work for 8months when we moved here. I found it really hard, even depressing, as I had always worked and earned my own money. But you will get used to it or hopefully find a job :)
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 April 2013 - 15:10
I actually don't even know what to do if a stronger one comes? Have never lived anywhere that we worried about it. Anyone know any good websites regarding what to do during an earthquake? I'd like to know, too
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 April 2013 - 14:59
Felt in dubai marina. I'm on the 15 th floor and it was really scary, the lamps swinging side to side, i felt dizzy (and scared) :(
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 April 2013 - 17:11
How about Gu Gu boat or any other boat
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 April 2013 - 22:52
I've just texted my friend in the UK and she's laughing at my 'joy' :)
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 April 2013 - 22:38
wow that's amaing, finally!
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 April 2013 - 12:55
I've see it at Almaya
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 April 2013 - 00:37
So sorry to hear your experience... I think going for a check up down there is not the greatest experience already, but if the doctor makes funny comments or does not do what she should do is awful I don't think her name should be disclosed, as the thread might get deleted! I had a similarly unpleasant experience at a hospital (the Dr. Has been recommended on EW forum highly) :( I told her about my problems but instead of doing the examination or ordering some tests, she suggested I should lose some weight first, because 'all my problems' were due to being overweight! I am size 16 and love my curves, it was a real shock to be called overweight (why didn't my GP think i was overweight?) She also prescribed me the pill but did not ask about my family medical history (did't ask me if i had any health issues either). Please note, I was never on a pill before. Oh, and when i mentioned i had the yeast infection, she said she was the doc and i should not tell the doc what i have, she would decide if i had anything and what. I left the hospital that day totally lost and sad. I have to go back to find out my test results but i just can' t face talking to her again. edited by LovelyLilies on 03/04/2013
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 31 March 2013 - 20:06
I'm not too sure but Lakeland might have it
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 26 March 2013 - 18:42
Does anyone of you have a problem with clogged pores? I started using the Garnier BB cream and am breaking out - not sure if its becoz of the BB cream. I bought the bobbi brown one as well , but they never seem to have the colour that I need and its quite expensive too...so what I am asking is, which one do u suggest - Hanskin or Missha if one has problem/sensitive skin...would appreciate your advise... Hi SanRan, I have tried the original BB cream and had breakouts...then checked on Garnier website that they created a new one for oily/combination skin as people were not happy about the original one. I am not sure whether it is available in the UAE, haven't checked yet. As these creams are the 'miracle' creams 7in1 or similar, they usually cannot ensure it is non-greasy.. better check it's oil free when you buy one
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 25 March 2013 - 14:57
Chill out by the pool (if you are lucky enough to get a lounger!)
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 25 March 2013 - 14:35
Tavola MOE, good selection. Bought some last month
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 March 2013 - 19:15
We always bring dollars/pounds when travelling to Mauritius, and exchange it in the city (better rates), only exchange a small amount at the airport. I love Casela and we do it everytime we go to Mauritius. Pricey but worth it. We did the dolphin trip, too, but I did not like it at all. There were 7 to 10 boats going to the same spot, chasing the dolphins. Some people jumped into the water to 'swim' with them but the dolphins kept on moving and only the lucky ones got to be in the same spot when the dolphins changed the direction they moved. We also did a glass bottom boat trip - total rubish: no fish, no nice corals, no sealife... at least we did not pay for this one! Go to the market in Port Louis, make sure to haggle. A day trip to Isla aux Cerfs is a must! Also nice to do a catamaran day trip with snorkeling and bbq Visit La Vanille crocodile park (have a steak at their restaurant, too!) Coloured earth and chamarel waterfall, pamplemousses botanical gardenl, tea plantations and factory I would say around $100pp/day for big activities. Taxis as such do not exist so renting a car is a good idea if you want to explore. Have a lovely trip
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 March 2013 - 11:45
Always buy local produce and never had a problem me too and for a lot longer than 2 years ;) ;)
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 March 2013 - 10:40
I'm sceptical about this.. been buying local rocket for 2 years and never had any problems.
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 March 2013 - 18:19
Thank you, ladies! Inspired by this thread, I started following the 5:2 eating plan, too. I find it really easy to stick to, it's easy to motivate myself to be good on the fasting days as I know that I'm going back to normal the following day. It has also made me more cautious on feast days, ie what I eat and the portion size. It is my 2nd week, 4th fasting day, and I'm doing ok! I did a lot of research which products have the least calories, and manage with 2 proper meals a day plus some snacks. Can't wait to weigh myself on Sunday to see the results!
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 March 2013 - 18:55
I have not tried it but sounds like a good idea! You can simply return it if this doesn't work out.
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 March 2013 - 10:59
I use [url=http://www.stilltasty.com/'>Still Tasty[/url'> I use my nose and eyes..... works everytime I trust my nose, too. There would be so much food wasted if people only relied on such lists.
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 February 2013 - 12:46
Most of the restaurants in the hotels have the service charge included in the prices (check the bill) so I would leave the tip only for an outstanding service. I give a taxi driver up to a max of AED 5 (rounding the bill) Maid 20-30 for 3hrs services Spa 10-30, depending on the service Petrol station (I ask if they are allowed the tips) 5-10 Car wash max 5
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 February 2013 - 11:10
Could it be to do with his ex wife and his daughter? There might be something he does not want to share with you not to worry or upset you, and he might be keeping it for himself which makes him suffer Good point said, he is in the garden not somewhere else. I'd go out there and hive him a hug and try to talk. What does he say when you try talking to him and telling him how you feel?
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 February 2013 - 10:59
Not sure if it's the same as aloe vera juice (?) which you can find at holland & barrett
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 February 2013 - 14:18
I used Philips epilator for 10+ years but also had to stop it due to ingrown hair. It does make your hair weaker and thinner with each session (so you see a slow regrowth, less hair), however, due to them being so weak they cannot get to the surface I guess. No scrubs/creams helped so I had to go back to razor, too! I wish I'd done it sooner as I have now these nasty marks on my legs :( It is a painful process but you get used to it. I remember reading a book while doing it ;) I would recommend it as you can do it yourself whenever suits you, also it is relatively cheap. I'd suggest alternating it with a razor time to time to avoid the ingrown hair.
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 February 2013 - 22:26
sssssshhhhhhhhhh!!!! hehe
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 February 2013 - 22:11
Not sure about the ban, but at the Marina Mall it's usually adults only watching the movies (with rather good manners, too!) :)
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 February 2013 - 10:02
We stayed at Grand Hyatt, nice location but I will be trying another hotel next time. The room was really spacious, the staff friendly and helpful, coming to your room to check if you need anything. I did not like the pool area, it's rather small and so busy, we opted going to the promenade and lounger area there. It has direct access to the beach which is nice and long, perfect for walks, run, etc. The internet charged separately, really expensive. Also the breakfast was not included in the room rate and we ended up paying around $40-45 per person!
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 February 2013 - 11:50
I think you could try compromising if it is for couple of months only, ie why not going there every other week instead of every week? You should explain to your husband that it is very hard to be constantly moving between two houses, also it is unsettling for the little ones and their daily routine. He could go there to have lunch or even a dinner with a 'sleepover' the week when you are not going (if that's acceptable by your arrangements) Be strong and good luck
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 31 January 2013 - 10:44
I Ayzzy, I saw your message on another thread. My contract is with a free zone, does it mean the MoL would not be able to advise me? Thanks
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 31 January 2013 - 10:27
Ayzzy, thanks for your reply. I would like to get an independent opinion first, something less formal than going to MoL
LovelyLilies
230
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 31 January 2013 - 10:07
You should check your contract. There might be a clause stating whether the company can change your salary (increase/decrease) at their discretion. I have this written in my contract.
 
 
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