lulubaker | ExpatWoman.com
 

lulubaker

lulubaker
309
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Latest post on 20 March 2013 - 12:08
Absolutely acceptable! She'll probably be delighted too.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 20 March 2013 - 09:11
Wow, that's very interesting. Can you just clarify what is the difference between diamond chips & diamonds? When a diamond is cut, obviously there's going to be many little pieces left over. Are they classified as chips? If so, surely they are, nonetheless, diamonds? And wouldn't it depend on the size too? Chips would be used for tiny settings, they're too small to cut. But worth knowing & being aware of I guess.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 March 2013 - 23:28
Really Spongemonkey? I've had many things made or repaired there, as have many of my friends, Never EVER had a problem.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 March 2013 - 14:50
Ooops yes CARA of course!
lulubaker
309
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 March 2013 - 14:06
Care jewellers in the new Gold & Diamond souq just along from MoE. Very reliable and excellent workmanship. Shop is always crowded, which is a good sign in itself.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 March 2013 - 12:38
Try fresh cream. My Mum always did that with our pets, worked a treat.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 March 2013 - 12:37
We went to Koh Samui a couple of years ago with 2 teenagers and stayed at a lovely hotel called Buri Rasa. Very central, private beach, nice pool. Really recommend it.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 16 March 2013 - 10:36
salsB - hope you've got everything sorted out now. Out of interest, who did you use in the end? Might prove useful for others to know in future.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 11 March 2013 - 15:00
We moved from Doha to Abu Dhabi last summer with 2 dogs & 3 cats, and EVERYTHING was sorted out and handled by the amazing wonderful Nicky Roffey. She is simply the best, no question, and has the animals' best interests at heart. She also organised a contact at the other end to collect my furry babies from the airport and speed them through customs. If you'd like NIcky's contact details, let me know and I'll pm you.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 March 2013 - 16:52
Zoos, I stand corrected! You are right about Qatar being part of the GCC. We were told we would not get a visa for our maid as she was over 50 - nobody could give us a definitive answer, but it would have involved sending her back to her home country (Philippines) and then bringing her over at a later stage, with no guarantee of being able to do so. We therefore took the difficult decision to find another position for her in Doha - she needs to work and being stranded in the Philippines would have been a disaster for her. We have sponsored a new maid here - she was already here working for another family, and they were leaving, so we transferred her visa. Her original visa was cancelled (as per regulations) and you then have a month to get the new one. As usual, just put the word out to the other maids when you move into your villa, and you will certainly find someone. The whole visa process was fairly lengthy (they don't make it easy!) and it was costly too. In the UAE you have to pay over Dhs 5,000 every year for the privilege of having a maid. I believe locals pay something far less, maybe Dhs300 or something. Can anyone confirm or is this just a rumour? Good luck!
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 03 March 2013 - 10:34
PLEASE don't use Shine for repairs! I've bought several things there as have my friends, and all have been ok. However, I took my daughter's engagement ring to be re-sized (made bigger) and they totally ruined it. The stretched it and cracked the setting, so that the first time she wore it, a diamond fell out and she lost it. She was very upset. I subsequently took it to a jeweller in Dubai who showed me how damaged it was and he completely rebuilt it. I highly recommend Jo Stones in the gold souk - his shop is called Tribal Gems. He's a true artisan and a lovely guy too.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 March 2013 - 22:25
We moved from Doha to Abu Dhabi last August, and wanted to bring our lovely housemaid with us - it proved to be just too difficult. Remember, Qatar is NOT a GCC country. We would have had to send her back to the Philippines and then apply for a visa to bring her over, with no guarantee that she would be granted that visa. It's really not that easy to employ a housemaid here, much more difficult than in Doha.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 February 2013 - 12:50
I have a friend who swears by Gold Salon (0432 11425) in Al Altar Tower. Her hair always looks amazing and they last for 4-6 months. Pricey however. She just had them done (think she had about 150 long pieces) and it cost Dhs5,500!
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 February 2013 - 20:18
kirkidium - you get used to the fixed retainers very very quickly. I've had mine for about 6 years now, and manage to keep them clean without any problems. Obviously you can't floss, but I bought a 'Waterpik' which is a gadget which shoots a high-powered jet of water between your teeth, and believe me, it gets rid of anything ordinary brushing might miss. Such a great gadget, couldn't live without it now.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 February 2013 - 18:46
I had braces in my mid 40's - best thing I ever did! I was actually quite happy with my teeth and smile, didn't think they were too bad, but every time I took my teenage daughter to have her braces tightened, the orthodontist would say to me 'you're next'. I thought, 'don't be stupid, I'm WAAY too old for braces'. He persisted though, and I am SO glad I did it. Had them on for 10 months, and now my teeth are perfect. I have fixed retainers (behind) top and bottom and they haven't moved at all. Dr Nizar Ishaq, GMC dental, Magrudy's Centre. He's FAB - can't recommend him highly enough.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 February 2013 - 08:08
I lived in Doha for 7 years and absolutely loved it, moved to Abu Dhabi in September and love it here too! There is so much more to do here and, in my opinion, it would be better for your kids. I can't advise on schools as all my kids are now grown up. I used to get very defensive when anyone moved from Dubai or Abu Dhabi to Doha and they moaned & complained about how awful it was and how there was nothing to do........however now I can understand where they were coming from! Doha will forever have a special place in my heart, but I feel very happy now in AD. The major advantage for me is the traffic is SO much better - the road systems are fantastic and getting anywhere is a breeze. I can remember in Doha it could sometimes take me an hour to get from west bay to villaggio for instance. That just doesn't happen here, it's a pleasure to drive! Come and have a look/see at Easter and make up your own mind. Any more questions, just ask!
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 11 February 2013 - 10:17
I lived in Doha for 7 years and ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!! Left last summer for Abu Dhabi - and love it here too! When we arrived in Doha in 2005, my two kids were 11 & 13. They completed their secondary school education at Doha College and both did really well (now at university in the UK). I've lived in many different countries (been an expat since 1997) and can honestly say that Qatar is one of the easiest places to live. There is (mostly) no language problem, and believe me, that makes a HUGE difference. Most things are available (even pork products now). Fuel is ridiculously cheap. You can have affordable help in the home. Qatar is a great location for holidays in the Far East. You will meet lots of fascinating people from many different countries - and hopefully make some lasting friendships. You will experience a completely different culture. Like anywhere, it has its frustrations. BUT try and focus on the positive and remember that EVERYWHERE has its frustrations! When we go back to the UK every summer, we somehow expect everything to be much easier, and are often surprised to find that it's not, so hold on to that thought. Not everything in your home country is better. For me, the biggest drawback is being parted from family - my mother is 81 now, and I feel very guilty that I don't get to spend more time with her. Similarly, all 4 of my kids (and grandchildren) are in the UK and I miss them terribly. However, with Skype, Facebook etc it's now much easier to stay in touch. TRAFFIC is the major downside of life in Doha - when we arrived seven years ago it was tolerable, but now it's a total nightmare - I reckon traffic volume has at least doubled, if not trebled since then. I only realise now that I'm no longer living there, just how truly awful it was. The standard of driving is appalling, but don't be scared - just get out there and go for it! Get yourself a big 4-wheel drive and you'll be fine. And of course, THE most important thing is to make friends. If you have school-age kids, that will inevitably make it easier to meet people. Get involved - go to coffee mornings (even if they're not your thing!). Tuesday Ladies Group meet every 2nd Tuesday in the Radisson Blu (or used to, better check) and I met some lovely ladies through that. The Rugby Club (beside Doha College) is another great place to meet people. My advice would be to go for it!
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 February 2013 - 18:46
Why not keep your dog inside?
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 08 February 2013 - 09:26
Totally agree with Catonclan - Doha in the hot summer months can be a lonely place, especially if you're new and have no friends or support network. Years ago, when we were first ex-patted (to Venezuela) my husband was very anxious for the kids and me to join him asap. So we moved at the beginning of July. And everyone else promptly left! It was really difficult for me, and I spent many unhappy weeks thinking I'd made a huge mistake. Ended up loving it, of course, but my advice would be wait until end of August.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 07 February 2013 - 08:34
We lived in Al Bustan Villas (close to Villaggio). I have 2 small dogs, and there are loads of doggie families there. Not sure what your rental allowance will be. I think the villas are around QR16,000 but of course that may have changed. There are lots of compounds where you can have dogs, so don't worry too much.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 February 2013 - 15:34
What a great turn out today. Met some lovely ladies of many different nationalities, great fun. Can we 'do' an evening meeting soon, maybe a meal out or cocktails?
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 February 2013 - 08:51
yyzdoh - I though the same. Can't help it, bit of a grammar Nazi. Maybe a career as a primary school teacher isn't a good idea... <em>edited by lulubaker on 06/02/2013</em>
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 February 2013 - 17:57
I honestly don't know, as I usually have other treatments at the same time. The phone number is 02 2222 501 if you want to phone and find out. All the staff are very helpful. Also get my waxing done there, they use the 'Lycon' wax which is less painful than other types. It really is!
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 February 2013 - 09:56
There are a couple of excellent restaurants in the Radisson Blu too (Ramada) the old part. My favourite was Maxim's, best place for a steak. It's a bit of a 70's time-warp - flock wall paper, lady playing background music on the piano - but the food is really good. Steak Diane cooked at your table is divine! Also Sakura, the Japanese restaurant there does great Tepenyaki and there are always quite a few Japanese people in there eating, which is probably a good sign!
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 February 2013 - 09:48
PuppyLove2 - I was in AD Mall yesterday, and noticed it then. Moved here in September and that's the first time I've been to that mall, so can't say how long it's been there!
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 February 2013 - 20:39
Trader Vic's at the Hilton is great - and cocktails are fab too! For cheap & cheerful you can't beat Thai Snacks on al Merghab St (just along from Doha Clinic, opposite side of road) I second what Jonners said about Friday Brunch at the Spice Market, W hotel - best one in Doha. Golf club does good food too, and you don't have to be a member to eat there.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 February 2013 - 20:29
And there's a Borders in Abu Dhabi Mall too.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 February 2013 - 20:27
Thank you IrnBru, yes you did!
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 February 2013 - 08:49
I used to think the Qatar forum was quiet & boring until I moved here! I posted a question about Friday brunch a few weeks back, asking for recommendations. Lots of people read it and NOBODY replied - don't people go for brunch here? Somehow, I think they do. Come on ladies - this is a valuable resource, make the most of it and help your other ex-pat friends.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 January 2013 - 09:21
I used tap water for cooking for 7 years without any ill effects (boiled of course) but then I AM a particularly strong, healthy Scottish person!
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 January 2013 - 09:18
Ladies it seems NONE of you go out for Friday brunch!!! No recommendations? Anyway, if anyone's interested we ended up going to the Yas Viceroy and it was AMAZING. Fabulous selection of food and superb service. 3 different packages depending on what you were drinking - we went for the Dhs350 which included spirits and Mumm champagne. Definitely recommend it.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 December 2012 - 12:56
Try this little trick - it speeds things up. Hold down the 'alt' key and type lglg. It will then say 'clear log'. Click on that and it will get rid of all the old stuff. Works for me!
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 October 2012 - 17:49
Sorry, should have said Abu Dhabi. Several people have now recommended Pooch Parlour, so I'll give him a go! Thanks ladies.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 October 2012 - 17:46
Nope, that's the right price, sorry to say! I went to Dr Makki for years when I lived in Doha, and 7 years ago it was QR1,000 - that's inflation for you! However, I think he charges the same no matter how much/little you have, and when you go back for your check-up in a couple of weeks, any extra you may need will be free. I've just had it done here in Abu Dhabi at one of the Kaya clinics, and they charge per unit. I paid Dhs1,400 so considerably cheaper.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 October 2012 - 18:07
Ladies, can you help? I have a beautiful little Pomeranian dog, who is VERY fluffy and severely in need of a good haircut/grooming. Can anyone tell me where to go - is there a good dog groomer here?
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 03 October 2012 - 19:19
It's no big deal, I'm just curious as to why this is prevalent on the Dubai board and nowhere else. And I know it's very pro-active. Wish the Abu Dhabi board was the same!
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 03 October 2012 - 19:18
erm I don't think so! Don't you have to press 'quote' when you reply for that to happen. I just replied to your post PennyLane and I don't think this happened.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 03 October 2012 - 19:15
Spongemonkey - 20,000+ posts?! Respect!! And BettysHotpot - been on the Expatwoman forum for 7 years, so plenty of time I think :)
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 03 October 2012 - 19:11
Love it! You all just proved my point!
lulubaker
309
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 03 October 2012 - 09:56
Seriously? That's just not true. I have lots of friends who wear ONLY white gold, and they have bought rings & other things from Damas. How strange....
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 03 October 2012 - 09:50
Unbelievable! I used to walk in that park a lot in the cooler months, usually in a t-shirt & 3/4 length gym pants. Never had any problems. Come on Qatar, this is just silly. You've got your priorities all wrong. Why don't you do something about all the people smoking in the malls instead of worrying about ladies showing their arms?!
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 03 October 2012 - 09:48
I don't know about platinum, but Damas has LOADS of white gold rings!
lulubaker
309
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 09 September 2012 - 14:42
Hi Qatcat! Sorry, can't offer any advice at all on schools in AD. My youngest has just flown the nest and starts university in Scotland this week, so school runs, etc now firmly behind me! It's been so much less stressful moving to a new country without all the hassle of finding school places. Good luck, whatever you decide.
lulubaker
309
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 September 2012 - 19:28
Thanks for the clarification Admin - I agree with all you say. It's not a question of what is an amount they're happy with - it's a question of what I'M happy with. If I can make a difference to one family, and help them for a few years, then that makes me feel good, makes me feel I've made a difference. We can all go out for a meal, Friday brunch, whatever, and spend a few hundred Dihrams - so le'ts just stop for a minute and think what that equates to for a family in India, Nepal, wherever. It can make a huge difference. A little thought and compassion never goes amiss.
lulubaker
309
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 September 2012 - 17:37
I see this post has been viewed 80+ times and no comments...............so am I to understand from this lack of response that Dhs 800 is a reasonable salary?
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 September 2012 - 14:58
Sorry, can't help you with that one IrishMammy, but my husband had to send our marriage certificate to the UAE embassy in London to be attested, and we were advised to send a copy as they sometimes don't return the original. Worth bearing in mind. Hope you get it sorted out.
lulubaker
309
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 31 August 2012 - 20:58
Good luck IrishMammy and well done for having the guts to take a leap of faith and move over here. I've just arrived too, but from Qatar, so not quite as daunting. You'll soon get used to the Middle East, it's an easy place to live. Don't worry about driving on the 'wrong' side of the road or driving an automatic car, it's very easy, like driving a dodgem. It will all seem a bit strange to start with, and you will undoubtedly have days when you think 'WHY did I do this?' but just be sure that bad days pass, and things will get easier once you become familiar with things. At least you have a chance to get familiarised with things before your husband and child arrive, which is good. Hopefully the school will help you with driving licence, and other paperwork, and one of the HUGE advantages of living here is that everyone speaks English, and believe me, that makes life in a new country MUCH easier. Our first expatriation many years ago was to Venezuela, and I didn't speak a word of Spanish, and not many people there spoke English, so it was very alienating until I learned the language. Wishing you all the best with everything!
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 August 2012 - 13:15
I always went to the Future Medical Centre on Al Waab street, directly across from Villaggio. They're very professional in there, and you can just rock up without an appointment and are usually seen in 10 minutes or so. (unlike other places where you can be kept waiting for hours, even WITH an appointment!) They're open all day too, don't close in the afternoon like many other clinics. Highly recommended.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 28 August 2012 - 09:05
I'm on HRT and buy it over the counter, no prescription necessary. Depends what type you're on I suppose, but worth asking at a pharmacy before you go to the doc for a prescription. You will find that you can buy many medicines here over the counter that you can't in Europe.
lulubaker
309
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 28 August 2012 - 09:01
Hi Rumers! Most 'nightclub' type bars require passports or ID, however, here is a list of some that do not. I'm sure there are others, but I've been to these ones and you don't need to show ID. The Kempinski has a lovely bar that has happy hour from 5-7 (two for one) and it's a great place to start off your evening. The Maison du Caviar in the W also has a happy hour on Wednesday from 7-9, so you can wander over there afterwards. The Belgian Cafe in the Intercon is a lively bar, again no ID required. Most restaurants that serve alcohol don't need ID, so if you want to go for a nice meal somewhere, that won't be a problem. Trader Vic's at the new Hilton is really lovely, and does great cocktails, so might be worth checking out. Enjoy Qatar - it's a good place to be. I'm leaving TODAY after 7 years here, sad to go.
 
 
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