lulubaker | ExpatWoman.com
 

lulubaker

lulubaker
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Latest post on 14 January 2014 - 15:48
I lived in Al Bustan Villas in Doha - not a compound as such, but 40 villas in 3 rows, lovely big 4-5 bed villas with their own small pool and garden. Separate maid's quarters. Just off Al Wabb, across from Beverly Hills 1 compound. Tebah gardens is an older compound but very popular with good facilities and nice villas. Good luck!
lulubaker
309
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Latest post on 12 January 2014 - 21:15
Just gift them to the OP natashab!
lulubaker
309
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Latest post on 08 January 2014 - 09:59
Oops!!! The sarcasm went right over my head this time - it's only 5.30am in the uk & I'm still not properly awake. Mind you, some women DO get themselves in a lather about things like that, so you never know...
lulubaker
309
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Latest post on 08 January 2014 - 09:48
Bublingcreek, are you serious? Send out a HELICOPTER???? Isn't that a bit of an over-reaction to what is, let's face it, more or less an every day occurrence here? I agree with Busybee2 - ignore it.
lulubaker
309
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Latest post on 05 January 2014 - 14:42
Hi - and welcome to Abu Dhabi! I can't answer your question specifically, but having also lived in Doha for many years, and now in Abu Dhabi, I'd be very surprised if you can't find it here. Generally speaking, there is much more on offer here than in Doha with most things more readily available. Keep looking - I'm sure you'll find it somewhere.
lulubaker
309
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Latest post on 03 January 2014 - 01:07
Oh Joyce - don't beat yourself up about this. There are MUCH MUCH worse things in the world. You had a few drinks too many and said and did things that are totally out of character. And that's the whole point - totally out of character. I'm sure you feel a lot worse about this than your husband. And I think he was a bit harsh in calling you a lush and saying you were embarrassing and absolutely wrong to lock you out. Where did he expect you to go? You will be feeling far worse about this than your friends - they probably found it quite amusing. I know if any of my friends get drunk, I always think nothing of it, just 'well it could have been me!' I once got really boozy at a friend's leaving party, went upstaris, threw up in the bathroom, fell asleep on her daughter's bunk bed for a couple of hours and then came down and re-joined the party. Next day I was MORTIFIED at my behaviour, but they thought it was hilarious, and it has gone down in the annals of 'what Lulu did next'. Any of us who follow your posts on this site know how much you love your hubbie and how great a couple you are. I think in a few days time you'll be able to laugh about this and you'll always remember your rocky, drunken start to 2014. Chalk it up to experience and your Scottish genes. <em>edited by lulubaker on 03/01/2014</em>
lulubaker
309
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Latest post on 31 December 2013 - 19:46
I LOVE HOGMANAY!! As a Scot, it's a huge celebration and always a time for reflection and remembering loved ones. Many happy memories of family parties, first footing and my dear Dad, whisky in hand, singing his heart out. I'm in Edinburgh with family, the best city in the world to be celebrating! HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!
lulubaker
309
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Latest post on 27 December 2013 - 12:20
I lived in Doha for 7 years with 2 small dogs, and didn't have any huge problems. I kept them on a lead at all times, and always picked up after them. Most people are curious about them and would often stop their cars and ask to see the dogs, or often ask to buy them (duh! as if I would ever sell them). Sometimes, people would give me a wide berth and on one memorable occasion a local woman stopped her car and yelled at me saying 'dirty, dirty - we don't like dogs in this country'. I smiled politely and walked away - not what I really wanted to do, but best not to argue! I lived in a villa with lots of open ground nearby, so it wasn't a problem for me to walk the dogs. I do know there are some buildings on The Pearl that allow dogs, and I think there may even be a dog-walking group there. There's a fantastic group on FB called Dogs in Doha - you'll get lots of information on there. People go to Wakra beach at the weekend to walk their dogs, but there have been incidents of dogs eating poisoned food there, so always be on your guard. I used Parkview Pet Centre, owned and run by a wonderful Qatari guy - he employs Western vets and prices are less than the other popular vet in Doha. He also has a rescue home for dogs called 'Second Chance'. Again, all on FB. I'm now in Abu Dhabi, and can't say it's any better or worse than Qatar. You sound like a responsible dog owner, so you really shouldn't have any problems. There IS a lot of animal abuse in Doha, which is terribly upsetting, but you're probably seen the same in Dubai. Good luck! Oh and although I didn't comment on your other thread, I LOVED Doha and was very sad to leave. Sure it's not Dubai, but I made some lifelong friends there and can honestly say it was one of the happiest times of my life. <em>edited by lulubaker on 27/12/2013</em>
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 December 2013 - 10:28
Yamaha Clavinova is the best. Not only does it have weighted keys but they are also full size and the keyboard is the full seven and half octaves. Not cheap though!
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 16 December 2013 - 22:39
We told my son (who was two and a half) that if he put his pacifier on the Christmas tree, Santa would take it away and leave a special present. Worked like a charm and he NEVER asked for it again.
lulubaker
309
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Latest post on 16 December 2013 - 11:02
Biotherm products are sold in duty free at Abu Dhabi airport.
lulubaker
309
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Latest post on 09 December 2013 - 09:40
In a word - no! I now live in AD after 7 years in Doha, and the Club is fantastic! Probably the closest thing in Doha is the rugby club. Pub atmosphere, cheap food & good fun. But definitely not The Club!
lulubaker
309
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Latest post on 22 November 2013 - 15:23
Because they can...
lulubaker
309
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Latest post on 21 November 2013 - 15:18
I would say hold him back - you won't harm him by holding him back, but may harm him by pushing him on. A year's age difference at age 4/5 is huge. Having said that, my eldest son is an August baby and he sailed through school, so it very much depends on the individual child. Go with your gut instinct. <em>edited by lulubaker on 21/11/2013</em>
lulubaker
309
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Latest post on 21 November 2013 - 15:15
There have been loads of articles & spoof stories about this stadium - too funny. mum2girls, in reply to your query about Adam, as far as I'm aware he is still in Doha with his late father's family, despite writing a letter to David Cameron pleading for help and quite a lot of news/press coverage. Unfortunately his mother unwittingly signed a legal document (in Arabic) giving the family custody, so there is little to be done until the boy becomes an adult. Such a sad story.
lulubaker
309
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Latest post on 17 November 2013 - 15:19
Immediately! Fresh air is good for babies, it's totally natural. Presumably you had the baby in hospital so you had to 'go out' to get home.
lulubaker
309
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Latest post on 12 November 2013 - 09:50
There's a very funny parody on The Poke's website - I won't include a link as there are a couple of swear words! But have a look, it'll make you laugh.
lulubaker
309
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Latest post on 29 October 2013 - 14:13
Hahahahahaha Hoots you actually made me laugh out loud!!! All your suggestions are spot on, but my favourite is the construction bus lane. Too too funny!
lulubaker
309
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Latest post on 28 October 2013 - 18:52
I actually couldn't care less either - I'm merely wondering how and if they will try and get around it.
lulubaker
309
Posts
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Latest post on 28 October 2013 - 09:56
So assuming there will be no alcohol served on that day, wonder how that will affect the F1 in Abu Dhabi?
lulubaker
309
Posts
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Latest post on 27 October 2013 - 08:32
Probably good old M&S is your best bet, they will stock clothes & shoes in those sizes. Debenhams too. I take a size 7 (40) and don't have any problem finding my size. Nine West also stock larger sizes, think you would be a size 10 in US?
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 October 2013 - 16:04
Try Garvey's, they do great outside catering. Look on their Facebook page and you can contact them through that.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 October 2013 - 18:41
It's no longer available anywhere in the UAE - supply problems I believe. You'll just have to stock up when you're back in your home country I'm afraid.
lulubaker
309
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 October 2013 - 20:09
Oh I'm so sorry - you must be so worried. My teenage daughter has mild scoliosis which doesn't require any surgery, so I can't offer any helpful advice I'm afraid. It's not terribly noticeable but she does get a sore back if she has to stand for prolonged periods of time. Hope you get the advice & support you need.
lulubaker
309
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 October 2013 - 19:57
Ruth's Chris is really good - had one of the best steaks there ever!
lulubaker
309
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 October 2013 - 14:55
Just to add, surprised about not finding tampons in Qatar. Lived there for 7 years & never had that problem! Good luck with the move.
lulubaker
309
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Latest post on 12 October 2013 - 14:50
It's open to visitors every day except Fridays, but not sure about over Eid. They have an excellent website which should give you up to date information. Don't know the exact address but if you google it you'll easily find it. Found it - it's szgmc.ae <em>edited by lulubaker on 12/10/2013</em>
lulubaker
309
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Latest post on 12 October 2013 - 07:30
That's a relief! Was wondering how you got on. Now you can relax & enjoy your holiday.
lulubaker
309
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Latest post on 10 October 2013 - 11:43
My maid has access to wifi - I don't consider it a luxury in this day & age, and it's the best way for them to keep in touch with their families.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 October 2013 - 10:50
Definitely get some dollars. But not a huge stash, and don't show it all or you'll have to pay WAY more!
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 October 2013 - 10:49
If by babysitting you mean just being there and listening out in case the kids waken up, then I don't see it's a problem, she's not really having to work. However, if she has to bath the kids, give them dinner, get them ready for bed, etc etc that's different and she should be paid a little extra, IMO.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 October 2013 - 10:43
Can't comment on Malaysia, but the same thing happened to us when we went to Indonesia - our kids' passports had only 5 months left. We were ushered into a small room with various other people who were in the same predicament. My husband managed to solve the situation with a $50 note.........those guys were making a fortune.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 08 October 2013 - 18:58
Wouldn't cross the road to see her.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 08 October 2013 - 15:15
I've bought quite a few pieces of jewellery from Cara over the years, and recommended them to many friends and always been very happy. However, recently a friend in the uk asked me to have a set of pearl ear-ring & necklace remodelled to something the same as I had. No problem, took the pieces in, discussed with the guy what was required, easy-peasy. Went back few days later to collect them, looked lovely, all fine. However, realised that afternoon that they hadn't included a chain with the necklace (there was one when it was given in) so went back and asked for one. Was told I'd have to pay for it, as they'd calculated the cost using the available gold weight, etc etc. Had a bit of a to do, told them that was not the understanding, and whilst I didn't disagree with the price, it should have been weighed and noted down at the time of handing the items over to them. And yes, it's my mistake I know, but I've had so many things made there, I didn't think to distrust them. It was their word against mine. He said he would get in touch with the workshop and get an exact breakdown on the amount of gold used, cost of workmanship, etc and get back to me later that day. That was on Saturday and I'm still waiting...... Very disappointed. However, have to say Cara is always packed any time I'm in the Gold & Diamond Park, unlike the other shops which are almost deserted.
lulubaker
309
Posts
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Latest post on 08 October 2013 - 15:02
What Izzy said! And never mind the parents, what about the unfortunate child who can't take a step without squeaking? Nightmare.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 08 October 2013 - 09:20
I'm going to have to buy some of this amazing Garnier moisturiser next time I"m back in Scotland!
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 08 October 2013 - 07:54
I feel your pain poshbird87! I use Nars The Multiple blusher so now have to stock up when I'm back in the uk. It's the little things...#expatproblems
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 October 2013 - 15:40
When my daughter was 2 weeks overdue with her first baby, I tried to buy castor oil from numerous chemists (in the uk) and couldn't - it's really frowned upon now and not readily available. For the record, I was 2 weeks late with all four of my babies. Tried everything already mentioned and nothing worked. Gestation period of an elephant!
lulubaker
309
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Latest post on 06 October 2013 - 15:35
I'm so sorry you were conned into signing something you didn't understand - hindsight is a wonderful thing isn't it? Many people in your situation would probably have done the same thing, especially with a screaming toddler in the background. I sincerely hope nothing serious comes of it. This brings to mind the terrible case of Rebecca Jones who signed a legal document in Arabic without understanding what it was - she was told by her deceased husband's Qatari family that it was to ensure her son's entitlement to his estate. WRONG! She actually signed a document giving full custody to his father's Qatari family. That was four years ago and the boy is still with them. Very very sad.
lulubaker
309
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Latest post on 02 October 2013 - 17:28
My grandson who is visiting on holiday has been very poorly this week (he's 22 months old) and we took him to see Dr Fani at the Harley Street Medical Practice near Marina Mall. She was lovely and very thorough. We then had to take him to Al Noor Hospital (near Carrefour, Old Airport Road) and he was seen by Dr Majid in the paediatric clinic. He was excellent too. Both doctors called me afterwards to check up on how he was, which really impressed me. Hope this helps. <em>edited by lulubaker on 02/10/2013</em>
lulubaker
309
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Latest post on 01 October 2013 - 21:56
Memoirs of a Geisha - Arthur Holden Wolf Hall & Bring Up the Bodies - Hilary Mantel The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time - Mark Haddon Case Histories - Kate Atkinson Suffolk House Trilogy - Norah Lofts Any Phillippa Gregory books Camberwell Beauty - Jenny Eclair
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 October 2013 - 17:36
My youngest daughter wet the bed until she was about 8 years old, whereas my three other children were dry at night by 3. We tried all the usual things (limiting drinks, lifting her on to the potty at night, etc) and nothing worked. She was upset and embarrassed about it as she couldn't go on sleepovers with her friends. In the end I bought an alarm - she was dry within 10 days. You clip a wire onto their pyjamas, and there's a sensor on the end which you slip into a panty liner or similar, and put it in their panties. As soon as they start to pee, the sensor is activated and the alarm goes off, so they waken up. Believe me, it's loud and it really works. Can't remember where I bought it from, I think probably Boots in the UK. It was quite a long time ago! Definitely recommend it.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 October 2013 - 11:56
Try Sisters salon on 28th street. I go there to have my bikini line waxed and they use 'lycon' wax which is much less painful. Very professional therapists and spotlessly clean. I've never had any problems with ingrowing hairs.
lulubaker
309
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Latest post on 01 October 2013 - 07:49
Yes it is utter rubbish - what does it even mean? No such word as 'piosed'. Or do they mean 'poised?' Either way, still doesn't make any sense.
lulubaker
309
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 September 2013 - 09:00
Try Karkafi. They have salons all over the Middle East. Sorry, don't have a number but if you google you'll find them, and they may even have a Facebook page. I used them when I lived in Qatar and they were good. I think the salon in AD is up near the corniche.
lulubaker
309
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Latest post on 16 September 2013 - 15:41
Ahem *stationery*. Sorry, can't help it....... ;)
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 September 2013 - 21:26
Well I'm one of the ladies who loved Doha! I lived there for 7 years and had a great time, made some of my best friends there, who I know will be life-long friends. I'm now in Abu Dhabi, and although I like it here, I miss Doha. Yes really. Now I know if you're moving there from Dubai or AD, it's going to seem like a huge step backwards - I REALLY do get that - but please don't make your mind up that you'll hate it, or keep escaping back to Dubai every weekend, or you'll never settle in. I'm sure you know that. I've lived in various countries around the world, and Qatar was one of my favourites. It just gets under your skin. Yes, the traffic is CR*P, yes, there is less to do, yes, things are expensive, but there are plenty of things going on, you just have to look a bit harder to find them. To be honest, I used to get really hacked off with people who moved from Dubai and moaned and moaned and moaned about Doha. It's not that bad! Focus on the positives, and you'll be fine.
lulubaker
309
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Latest post on 30 August 2013 - 09:19
Sorry to hear that, very poor service. My bags got lost with Etihad once, I had a very tight connection at heathrow and they didn't make the flight. However, they were able to track them & told me they'd been out on the next flight and would arrive the following day and would be delivered to my hotel - and they were. I didn't have to phone or chase them up at all. The fact that you can't get through to the number they gave you and they haven't contacted you is really bad - do you have a tracking number so you can at least see where they are? You might have to go back to their office at the airport and make a BIG scene.
lulubaker
309
Posts
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Latest post on 29 August 2013 - 13:37
I wonder if you're thinking about LYCON wax? It's bright pink, so maybe looks a bit like play dough? I'm in Abu Dhabi and go to Sisters beauty salon, they use it, so I'm sure the branches in Dubai would too. It's definitely much less painful than normal wax.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 27 August 2013 - 10:08
What Kiwispiers said - absolutely spot on! Great advice.
 
 
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