Maple | ExpatWoman.com
 

Maple

Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 20:50
Glad to know you are happy with the Henna. I am also back to confirm that there is a branch in Lulu Gharaffa on the first floor although under a different name. I am one happy person coz now I no longer have to go all the way to the other side of town to get my eyebrows done.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 16 January 2012 - 18:15
Thanks for the reply. Sorry for asking so many questions but if we have a reservation for Sahn Eddar, are we restricted only to that area of the hotel?
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 16 January 2012 - 16:25
If you had to choose between breakfast at Sahn Eddar or an evening at the Skyview bar which one would you choose? I had posted previously that DH and his Dad are headed to Dubai for a short break. Keen on going to Burj Arab but we not sure which would be a better option. Both dont drink so even if they made it to Skyview they would have mocktails. Is it better to be at the hotel during the day or in the evening? Thanks
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 January 2012 - 11:12
Karariki, would u mind sharing your recipe please?
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 January 2012 - 11:09
Thanks for the replies ladies. Just called Skyview Bar and it costs 425 per head for the afternoon tea which is not offered on Fri. Sat is fully booked and DH is due to fly back on Sunday. We may look at breakfast options or will have to give it a miss.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 January 2012 - 00:52
Sarvana Bhavan is good for thalis on Fri and Sat and there's quite a crowd so try to get there early. I think they serve lunch between 12 to 3pm. Also good for dosas/idlis. New place that has opened is Anjappar; have not tried the dosas and the thali was ok. Went a second time and tried some chettinad dishes which were quite good.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 January 2012 - 16:29
Finished A thousand Splendid Suns and its the first book that made me cry. I think the way the story is told from a woman's perspective really touched my heart. I thought it was better than The Kite Runner by the same author.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 January 2012 - 16:25
Thanks for the replies everyone. LadyD some great points there to keep in mind...my biggest problem is chocolates. I worked my way down your list and kept thinking I am doing most of this stuff (mind you I am trying to incorporate good eating habits in my kids so thats the big motivator). But once the kids are in bed and I have quiet time to myself I turn to the chocolates. Trying to break the habit but its hard. I need to exercise though as the weight has piled on in the last two years. Thanks
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 January 2012 - 14:10
I too avoid cough syrup for my boys and try to use natural remedies. If its a dry cough, then try gently boiling cloves (3-4) in half cup of water for a few min. Remove the liquid into a cup. Mix 1/4 cup warm milk with a few drops of the clove liquid and some honey and give to your child twice a day. A tsp of honey with pinch of freshly ground pepper also works wonders. I also switch to lukewarm water for the kids to drink whenever they have a cough as it just soothes the throat. I hope your daughter feels better soon.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 January 2012 - 09:34
DH has picked up two packages of ours from Landmark in the past so I guess this is possible.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 January 2012 - 09:33
Thanks Sleepless50 but I think I'll pass.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 09 January 2012 - 00:14
Thats a whole lot cheaper than the ones I saw at Lulu; QR 32 for two vanilla beans.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 09 January 2012 - 00:14
Thats a whole lot cheaper than the ones I saw at Lulu; QR 32 for two vanilla beans.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 09 January 2012 - 00:13
Thanks for the info on Bodyrock...will look it up but I must confess that my Jillian shred DVD has been lying unopened for the last eight months. Need I say more about the kind of motivation I need? Sleepless50, is it possible to get the details of the personal trainer as my compound does have a gym.Thanks
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 08 January 2012 - 00:14
Dr Oetker's vanilla beans are available in Lulu Gharaffa (baking section)
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 07 January 2012 - 16:34
Lulu Gharaffa has baking soda in stock now. Not Foster Clarks but Dr Oetker for anyone who's still looking.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 January 2012 - 18:10
We went to Dr Sarah's two years ago after reading great reviews about the clinic. We found that they tried to make maximum use of the AXA dental coverage we have with DH and kids and hence we never went back.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 January 2012 - 18:07
SafiyaDafiya, we saw some nice cummerbands in M&S Landmark last Wednesday. It was a bowtie and cummerband combo in one box from what I can recall. Can't help with the waistcoat.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 January 2012 - 19:19
I read this a few days ago after seeing it recommended on this forum. Enjoyed the manner in which the story was told through three different characters and the time it was set in. Dont have a maid but interesting perspective.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 January 2012 - 19:13
Just finished reading The Help and enjoyed it. Waiting for DH to come back tomorrow with Water for Elephants and Shadow of the Wind. I was an avid reader but with three kids and no help, my reading had taken a backseat and I had no idea which books to choose till I saw this thread. Thanks for the recommendations ladies.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 January 2012 - 19:07
I feel for you Sugarbeach. Been married close to 12 years now and there's no change happening on MIL's side so I have just adopted different approach to still do what I need to. I try to be more discrete just to avoid having a long drawn out discussion on why I am trying to change the son blah blah. (Of course as I have mentioned on other threads, she is not talking to DH or me right now but we hope that the anger will settle now that its close to a year). Hang in there!
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 December 2011 - 13:37
Someone correct me if I am wrong but I think Taliban store should have beads right? I was trying to recollect if Rawnaq (the branch in the Souq area) also has beads. Hopefully the other ladies will be able to confirm this.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 December 2011 - 13:20
Thanks for the replies ladies. At least now I know we are not the only ones stuck in this situation but I can't get myself to accept the pathetic customer service. When the manager told us that they cannot provide us with another car, we looked into renting a car. The companies DH checked out either did not have any cars available or were not willing to rent on daily basis. Anyways DH leaves tonight and when he gets back we may as well rent a car since Mitsubishi is not able to give us a definite date when they are going to get the part. I can't believe I am having a Doha day as I usually like being here. Edited for sounding too negative! <em>edited by Maple on 29/12/2011</em>
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 28 December 2011 - 20:59
We had to give our car in for repair ten days ago as the oil pump needed replacing. DH had it towed to Mitsubishi service centre and we were told that they would check and get back to us the following day if the work would involve anything more than an oil pump change. The next 2 days we were doing the follow up and were promised the car after the weekend. To cut the whole sequence, now we have been told that the part is out of stock in Doha and they are awaiting the new part to arrive from Dubai???? Tried talking to the Manager there only to be told that he cannot do anything. Honestly I am ready to just tear my hair out in frustration. We have only one car, the kids are home, my father in law is here visiting and DH goes away on a five day reunion with old friends tomm. It really is no fun to be at the mercy of Karwa. Has anyone experienced any problems like this here and how have u handled it? We asked Mitsubishi to provide us with a car till they get the part but apparently they cannot do that. Any advice appreciated.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 27 December 2011 - 19:15
Will have to make my way to Megamart then. Thanks!
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 27 December 2011 - 19:13
Doha Beauty Salon located in Lulu Hypermarket(near the Ariport) and at the beginning of Garage Street (across from Toys r Us) do henna. I heard that they have a branch in Lulu Gharrafa as well but have not confirmed it. I have had Arabic henna done from them on my hands and they were good. Hope that helps.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 December 2011 - 16:43
Thanks ladies but I know that usually its Foster Clark's baking soda you get here. Its just not been available for sometime now. I was hoping someone might have seen it as recent as in the last one week? Have checked C4 Landmark and Lulu Gharrafa last night and its still not there.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 December 2011 - 10:38
We had the same problem when we moved into our present villa. Got the gate and the extension from Home Centre (Centrepoint branch) as this was the only place which met the width requirements. DH cut out small blocks of wood which he superglued to the metal banister side and thats how we fixed the gate. Almost a year now and its still strong! Also I do remember that Toys R Us had the stairgates at a much better price but no extensions; maybe u would like to check there as well. Other ladies from my compound have said they got wood gates with a latch made from the carpenter. Hope this helps!
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 09 December 2011 - 22:51
I would just like to add on to what Margarita has said. The agency we used was Al Kanz and I think it might be the one she has mentioned as they are also located in Gharaffa. Canadian passport holders need to apply one month in advance due to "diplomatic" reasons and this change has come about only in July or so otherwise it normally takes two working days. It costs QR 135 per passport for the Saudi transit visa. Just want to also mention that one of our friends recommended the Salik card which can be purchased at the UAE border; this apparently takes care of the toll charges while driving in Dubai. We bought one just to avoid being fined (100 dirhams) as we also went to Ferrari World etc. Hope that helps.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 09 December 2011 - 12:33
Thank you amy77. I might not need it afterall if we conitnue to have today's lovely weather.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 07 December 2011 - 19:42
Eleven years to our marriage and we are now on the fifth phase of mother in law not talking to us. She gets upset, says she won't talk to us ever and then restarts after a few months. However this time, the situation seems worse and as much as we are trying for a reconciliation she is refusing to respond. Its very hard as it takes on a toll on the marriage but the saving grace is father in law is ok and coming to visit soon. I have tried to still respect them and be polite whenever we meet. Living in different parts of the world is a big help as the saying goes, distance makes the heart grow fonder. ;)
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 December 2011 - 14:45
Yes it has basement parking.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 December 2011 - 13:02
My youngest will be three in early Jan. He has stopped taking day time naps for the last few weeks and goes straight to bed with his older brothers at 6:30pm.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 December 2011 - 12:58
I have used the head pillows for my boys and I think it helped in preventing the flat head. Also if you find the baby preferring one side then encourage him/her to use the other side when awake by showing something bright/musical or even carrying on your other arm. One of our close friends is a Paedriatician and he noticed that my then two month old was using more of his left side (we were at a common friends' party) so these are the tips he gave us and we followed them. Hope that helps!
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 December 2011 - 12:48
Tandoor is good for Indian food. I really don't like Star of India either; been there once.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 December 2011 - 12:46
Definitely colder than the last three winters we have been here. Wondering if this is a passing phase or we will need to get heaters soon.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 December 2011 - 12:45
Centre Point (Al Asmakh mall) has Home Centre and I think it is the biggest of the three although it was under renovation last time I was there. The store was open but being expanded and reorganised. There's another branch near Jaidah flyover.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 November 2011 - 00:30
Can I please have the number for Dr Fady's clinic? DH needs to have his tooth capped...or should I say should have had it capped 6 months ago after the root canal?! Men!!
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 November 2011 - 00:47
My brother has one of these and we used it for the kids when we visited him in the summer. The kids loved it no doubt although I was not too comfortable as I felt the air had reduced over the night. Definitely recommend an electric pump as its very fast to fill and delfate. Another option might be to look into the foldable foam mattresses if you have space and get regular visitors. I have seen the foldable mattress in C4 a few months back. Hope that helps.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 18 November 2011 - 22:47
Is it still on tomorrow?
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 18 November 2011 - 22:46
I have always been asked for an attested letter of consent from DH when entering Canada with the kids.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 18 November 2011 - 22:43
DH wants to take his Dad to Egypt in December as thats been his dream holiday. Any ideas on whether its safe considering the problems in the region. Thanks in advance.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 November 2011 - 02:04
Of course it was funny; even DH and my surprised kids could not control their laughter when I returned sobbing to the car. U should have seen the sales people...there was a minute of complete silence till I stopped screaming and ran out. Go ahead ladies!
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 November 2011 - 02:02
No arguments of that sort actually because DH is happy to see me make "purchases" in Ikea than make a hundred trips here and come back empty handed. Fitting things into the car is purely his responsibility so I do not get into that as long as my stuff gets here undamaged. I have only been to the Dubai Ikea so can't comment on the Abu Dhabi one.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 November 2011 - 00:28
I was enjoying the Taliban store a few months back until a lizard decided to jump onto my arm and I literally screamed my lungs out. Came out crying and too embarrassed to go back; this thread just brought it all back.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 November 2011 - 00:24
Have fun amy77. Just returned with a car full (and I mean filled in every nook and corner) of Ikea stuff.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 November 2011 - 12:19
I recall seeing Nestle cans of this in Lulu Gharaffa about two weeks ago and being pleasantly surprised as I too have used chardfan's method of making it at home.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 31 October 2011 - 13:56
Thanks for the ideas ladies. I will be heading out this evening.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 31 October 2011 - 12:01
amy77, did you happen to notice if there any crystal/home decor stores open? As posted on a separate thread I am looking for something elegant to gift and am hitting a dead end with most stores here right now.
Maple
394
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 31 October 2011 - 00:54
I am looking for something like a decorative item, crystal...dont know what exactly but I do not mind spending QR 500 or so. They have a beautiful collection of things from all over the world as my Uncle travels a lot (so it just makes it that much harder) but this will be the first time I will be gifting them something so I want to it to be special. Am I making sense?!
 
 
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