marycatherine | ExpatWoman.com
 

marycatherine

marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 19 January 2011 - 16:41
Sugar is added to most bread to get the yeast proving process going (usually about a teaspoon for two loaves). Anything more is for flavour. Might I suggest you try making your own bread? It takes a few times to get a feel for the kneading, proving and baking (because your oven is different from any other oven) but you can get great results for relatively little effort. I can make 4 loaves of bread in less than 2 hours including mixing, proving, knocking back, proving and baking. And it's great!
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 19 January 2011 - 16:38
Being fiscally smart about buying a vehicle depends on (a) what make/model you buy (b) condition at time of sale - mileage etc. and (c) how long you plan to be here. Toyota and Nissan have traditionally been better value overall - they are also cheaper and easier to service in that there are so many - there are lots of spare parts and mechanic shops are used to servicing them. A friend worked out that it is cheaper to buy if you plan on keeping the vehicle for 2 or more years - otherwise leasing is the way to go. Talk to people who have been here a while about incidental costs (inspections/services/insurance etc.) and keep an eye out for the asking prices for used vehicles - you'll get a feel for the market.
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 19 January 2011 - 07:33
You're on the Qatar forum
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 18 January 2011 - 21:42
I thought that the stranger danger bit had been pretty much debunked (not that it doesn't happen but it is relatively rare). From what I have read, most child sexual abuse is by relatives/friends/people known to the chiled (which makes it even more frightening IMHO)
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 18 January 2011 - 21:31
I'm sorry but I don't understand the query very well? Is your daughter shy? If she doesn't have any brothers or sisters, does she have any friends that she can play with regularly (i.e. daily)? As for activities that last longer than an hour - there's a reason why many are shorter time periods for younger children - they have shorter attention spans and tire/get cranky easily, so the benefit for them is to enjoy the time they do spend wherever it may be. Toddlers are tiring and demanding little beings - that's the nature of the little "beasts" (for want of a better word) - they do grow out of it - you will have greyer hair and a few more wrinkles but again, that's the reality for all of us. I would strongly suggest you try and cultivate a circle of friends for your daughter (and yourself as a bonus) where she can learn to socialize with her peers (and you can get a cup of tea and a chat between jumping up and sorting out problems/tears/etc.). Good luck to you. It's not easy but it will be excellent for your daughter and will help you with getting advice/sympathy etc. from mums in similar circumstances. <em>edited by marycatherine on 18/01/2011</em>
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 18 January 2011 - 21:22
Sedar does them and custom sizes them for your windows
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 17 January 2011 - 19:43
If you could give an idea of what your day is like in Dubai (what you like to do, where you like to shop, if children are involved, will you be looking for work) we might be able to give you a reasoable comparison.
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 17 January 2011 - 19:38
Sorry, I know it's an age and generational thing, my parents celebrated their 59th anniversary this week - they ordered in Chinese food (but I know the music was special because they have an extensive collection). Enjoy your special moments as best you can where you can - my parents have done and continue to do so.
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 17 January 2011 - 19:34
Add colour to your diet. While I love rice, potatoes, and bread - try to choose colours, brown rice, dark rye bread, kumara (yellow) sweet potatoes. When you have a "real meal" try to have at least 3 colours on your plate (broccoli/green beens/brussel sprouts, carrots/kumara-sweet potato, pumpkin, carrots, and something else of your choice. Also try (and I have a hard time with this) to restrict your diet to meat 3x per week. I cheat, red meat one day, chicken or turkey 3x, and fish or other (lentils/tofu etc) the rest of the week. I will admit I am weak when it comes to meat. But on the upside I love fish if I have the time and inclination to prepare it to my taste. No fizzy drinks except for bubbly mineral water (with lemon or lime),. In the morning = make oatmeal (I actually love it because I associate it with my Grandfather - he couldn't boil an egg but he could make porridge - I swear the brown sugar on top had nothing to do with it!!!!!) However, take a 1/3 c quick cooking oats (Quaker is one brand) and add 3/4 c of water - in a big bowl (otherwise it gets messy) add whatever I use ground flax seed and some salt, and put in your microwave for 1.5 - 2 minutes (if you haven't used a big enough bowl you will soon find out. The oats are pretty much cooked at this point but you might want to add extras, fruit, maple syrup, raisins whatever at this point and let em go in the microwave for another 30 seconds or a minute. I like the pre addition (the 2 minute cycle) and add some low fat milk at that point and I'm happy. My sisters will add a few slliced bananas or strawberries or whatever with the milk and they're happy (I eat my banana separately) This is a filling and lasting breakfast with lots of fiber, some protein and if you add fruit a serving of that.
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 16 January 2011 - 22:35
And while I realize this is not a direct analogy - are you saying that mothers who have 1, 2, 3 or more children who also look after their homes (wash, clean, cook dinner, do the school run) who have never had formal training in any of these areas and have little or no social support system (local family members) are unqualified to look after their homes, children and spouses? That being said - there are a multitude who do so, most find it very challenging, some who find it difficult to cope. However, as in many occupations there are those "lucky" few who are naturals. And some are lucky to have hired them - and these few are (for the most part) appreciated by the parents. These few and far between jewels also have the "luxury" of handing off their charges to their more than grateful parents and not have the 24/7 joy/stress/wonderfulness/scariness of their children everyday all day. (Which the parents have whether they are at home or not). I guess what I'm trying to say is don't paint every maid/nanny with the same brush if they don't have formal training - some have practical experience and a very few have a real instinctive knack. I am not trying to take anything away from a trained professional - but as an analogy, how many of us had teachers (trained professionals) who were garbage and perhaps mentors in the workplace who helped us learn and grow? <em>edited by marycatherine on 16/01/2011</em>
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 16 January 2011 - 22:27
As an addition to the raw food diet - it was at least comparable (and sometimes cheaper) if the chicken was on sale - and I didn't feed the pricier bagged dog foods like Eukanuba or Science Diet.
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 16 January 2011 - 18:30
For the allergic dog you might try a raw food diet. When I had a second fridge (and freezer) I fed my dog raw chicken, cooked rice, a green veg (she liked string beans) and carrots (I chopped the veg in a food chopper. It's about 1/3 for each component. The chicken was chopped into pieces (2 pcs for wings and drumstick/thighs and 2 pcs for each breast and back. There is no need to worry about bones - cooked bones are not good as they can splinter but uncooked chicken is OK. I would buy the cases of 10 frozen chickens and defrost 2 or 3 a week. Chop up enough veg for 2 or 3 days at a time and maybe 4 days worth of rice would be cooked at once. She was uncertain about it in the beginning but liked it quite well after the first few days (it is messy though). Her coat was great, it got rid of the tartar buildup on her teeth and the poops were smaller (no grain fillers as in regular dog food). I also have a liver treat recipe which is a sure fire winner - but not suitable for households whose members become nauseous at the smell of liver cooking
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 16 January 2011 - 06:16
Are you sure your work is a consistent 30 min drive away? At certain times of day - i.e. school run times, some commutes can easily double because of the traffic. It's something to keep in mind if the plan does turn out that you will pick up your child, take him home, have lunch and go back to work.
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 15 January 2011 - 20:46
Does the Central Bank have a facility for filing a complaint against the banks? Most do. However, I would also carefully check the loan papers that were signed at the time the loan was taken. You may find that your agreement allows the bank to act as it is - that's why it's important to read the fine print. You will also find that above your signature is usually a statement that reads " I have read and understand the terms and conditions of this agreement " or similar. Most people don't read the fine print. Hopefully yours is an exception and the complaint to the Central Bank yields results
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 14 January 2011 - 20:55
12 hour day? Sorry, but even with 4 boys at home the maid wasn't expected to put in 12 hours (would you?). She was available for the pre bus/breakfast period to up to maybe noon time (cleaning, washing ironing, dishes, etc) and after 5pm to maybe latest 7 pm for help with the boys and washing dishes. This is for 5.5 days a week Of course there was some child minding as well and baby sitting in the evenings but by mutual agreement and previous arrangement with 1.5 days off, annual ticket and 1 month leave. While I don't work full time 8 - 5, I don't expect that from my maid unless I am compensating her for the extra hours, after all = I get medical tickets housing and holidays from my employer. I would expect OT for anything more than 8 hrs/day 40/hrs per week. However, I expect to be jumped on for this as "they are so much better off than they are in their home country" isn't that the reason we're all here?
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 14 January 2011 - 20:46
Take a picture of their number plate and then say you are placing a call to your student at HCT (there are many policemen taking evening classes there) - they'll be gone in a heart beat
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 14 January 2011 - 19:38
Just make sure you go to the "right" part of the Barracuda - my first trip I managed to end up in the wrong half. I will say no more, but it was an experience that lasted about 1 minute before I and the guy behind the desk both realised I didn't want to be where I was LOL
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 14 January 2011 - 16:23
If someone asks you to hold the item - get the agreed on price in cash upfront - otherwise, tell them the first person to come along in the meantime with cash will get the item. As for no shows, set a time that suits when you will be available - if they can't make it, too bad.
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 14 January 2011 - 11:50
Lakeland is coming!! Yippee - I only discovered this store late last year in Dubai while visiting. They have zippered mesh bags that I use for storing vegetables (they're supposed to be used while grocery shopping to reduce plastic bag use, but until they start weighing things at the cash register here, I doubt if they'd be allowed)
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 13 January 2011 - 20:01
Outdoor swimming might be problematic if you aren't a member of a hotel beach or because you'd have to travel. Public beaches are now effectively nil within the city and suitable beaches outside the city would probably be more comfortable in a group or with your husband as many are frequented by men on the lookout for women alone. At certain times of the year you would have to be careful of jellyfish as well (but that happens around the world, but jellyfish here can be more painful than you are accustomed to). Even if you become a hotel member I would check out their beach facilities carefully for any kind of distance swimming, most are pretty limited in scope - so make sure it will meet your requiremets. I know the Canadian college has a 25 meter pool (but not open to the public) and that there is a swimming pool at Aspire that may suit your needs, but I've never heard of a Master's club = but Aspire might be a place to approach with the suggestion? Swimming for women as an activity or competition is not generally encouraged and mixed gender swimming is generally frowned upon, no matter how innocent it may be - also, there are a large number of men here who would flock to the pool where they were allowed to swim with women merely to gawk (there are also men who would want to go to swim but they would be vastly outnumbered by the former). If you are housed in a compound or an upmarket apt complex you would probably have access to a pool but not a competitive length one.
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 13 January 2011 - 19:33
Doesn't Aramex have pharamceuticals on their list of things you can't shop and ship?
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 11 January 2011 - 19:50
One reason for renouncing citizenship (and embracing US citizenship) would be to be able to vote in US elections at every level. I know people who have lived worked married have children and will not give up their home citizenship. It's a personal decision and many people do embrace US citizenship, others do not. It's a free country after all?
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 10 January 2011 - 19:30
I understand the reasoning that many maids/gardeners/drivers are making much better wages here than in their home countries. My reasoning is what their labor is worth to me - and that may not be the same as my neighbor. I pay what I think the labor is worth to me (which may be as much as my neighbors are paying or not). Then the laborer has the choice of accepting or not. <em>edited by marycatherine on 10/01/2011</em>
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 10 January 2011 - 18:43
My own perspective on wage levels etc is " what is this person's labor worth TO ME " if she's asking more than I want to pay or think it's worth - on your way. If it is worth it TO ME, then I pay it. End of story. It has nothing to do with what my neighbor pays or what she gets paid in her home country. <em>edited by marycatherine on 10/01/2011</em>
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 10 January 2011 - 18:36
From what I understand the OP hired her maid quite legitimately and followed all the legal procedures needed. I think it is prudent for new people to UAE to understand that you take your chances if you don't do so. Her experience has been horrendous, and I hope the guilty parties are punished appropriately. It is caveat emptor even with maid services.
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 10 January 2011 - 15:14
Feline Friends or similar may be able to help you arrange to have him neutered if he is indeed a stray (that will help reduce the fighting instinct to a certain extent). I know it's difficult NOT to feed the strays (I was out in the street helping one across a busy street today) but it's not fair to the cat. If you feel you must feed, do it on random days at random times, not on a regular basis. Once he gets used to coming to you at xhour every day, he'll give up looking for food on his own. If you feel you must - every second or third day, and do it at different times (when you go to work, when you get home from work on the week end in the middle of the day. It's a nice supplement but he's still on his own and if you should change accomodation, he won't be left expecting (and starving for) food.
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 10 January 2011 - 14:14
Got one in the Japanese section of Dasman centre,(same pricing strategy as Daiso - 7 or 10 riyals for most things) counts down for several hours and is magnetic. The alarm isn't very loud but then it doesn't scare the life out of me when it goes off either.
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 January 2011 - 19:33
it is an interesting social/cultural commentary. I would say most westerners pick up after their dogs. Personal observation, nothing scientific about it. Other nationalities seem to take the view that I see one piece of poop so my dog can poop and I don't have to clean up. WTF?? It's a personal observation and YES there are westerners who follow the my dog's poop doesn't stink (or stick for that matter) so I don't have to clean up after it. Clean up after your dog and you will have few to no problems = my dog weighs 50 lbs and her poop not much less (or so it seems) but using the inside out plastic bag pick up has resulted in exactly zero complaints or even dirty looks
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 January 2011 - 19:26
As an added bonus Polar HRMs will often work with commercial gym equipment - wear the monitor and the data displays on the treadmill/eliptical/bike etc. No guarantees and it does work across brands but probably not a primary reason to buy that brand.
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 09 January 2011 - 19:26
As an added bonus Polar HRMs will often work with commercial gym equipment - wear the monitor and the data displays on the treadmill/eliptical/bike etc. No guarantees and it does work across brands but probably not a primary reason to buy that brand.
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 January 2011 - 18:45
No offense taken but Sharjah is dry - and has been dry for more than 15 years (since 1996). Neither can you buy pork in Sharjah - it's just not allowed. However, they are willing to make money by issuing an alcohol permit. Ask around. If you want a drink in Sharjah - go to the Wanderers - it's literallly the only game in town because it's supposedly considered a British outpost (the airport used to be there again years ago. You are not being asked to follow the advice, this is the reality in Sharjah. I don't mead to seem rude either - but you don't seem to be aware of the laws and policies outside of Dubai - I've lived in 3 emirates in 10 years - as I don't live in Sharjah anymore I don't have that permit anymore. Ask one of your acquaintances who lives in Sharjah who has a permit ( or better yet, call the Sharjah police dept. and ask directly if you don't believe me) Here's a source which may be more current http://www.dubaifaqs.com/alcohol-licence.php Perhaps we should both back up our comments with published facts - unfortunately, Sharjah Police Dept. website won't mention alcohol BECAUSE IT'S TECHNICALLY DRY <em>edited by marycatherine on 08/01/2011</em>
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 January 2011 - 17:16
No because there IS NO outlet in Sharjah - it allows you to purchase in other emirates where there are off licenses. Here's some more info for those who might be a little concerned. While it doesn't explicitly say a Dubai license holder can buy in Ajman or elsewhere - the policeman's comments seem to cover that point. Alcohol Licence - obtaining one and why you should have one An Alcohol Licence (or License) gives expats in Dubai and the UAE permission to drink alcohol - they need a residence visa before applying for an alcohol license. It is shown at off-licences or liquor stores in Dubai when making purchases. In theory it could be asked for at a bar or club but in practice it almost never is. Apparently the law says that only hotel guests may drink at hotel bars but it's unheard of for that to be enforced. 14 Nov 2006 news. A court case acquitted a resident for drinking in a bar because he did have an alcohol license, although the police arrested him because they claimed the license only allowed residents to drink alcohol at home. Tourists do not need an alcohol licence since they are not in Dubai on a resident's visa. Muslims are not permitted to have an alcohol licence (the application form asks what religion the applicant is). Alcohol licenses are a legal requirement when buying alcohol from bottle shops like MMI, and A&E, and Spinneys in Abu Dhabi. How often it is asked for varies depending on emirate. Almost always in Dubai, sometimes not in Abu Dhabi and Ras Al Khaimah, and rarely, if ever, in Umm Al Quwain and Ajman. Alcohol purchases can be made without a licence (illegally) at several establishments in Ajman and Umm Al Quwain. Or you can present your license and buy alcohol legally. Where you're likely to get into trouble is if you have an accident between shop and home, and the alcohol is found in your car. Sharjah especially would be more risky as it is a dry emirate. Checkpoints with car searches are a possibility but very rare. If you do have a license then you are permitted to transport alcohol for personal use between shop and home. However, for those living in Dubai, you would be expected to buy alcohol in Dubai. On 03 July 2006 there was a report in the Gulf News of alcohol purchasers being followed from Ajman into Sharjah by conmen, made to pull over and threatened with being reported to the police unless a ransom was paid. Figures were reported as being 2000 dhs to 10,000 dhs. An Ajman police official apparently told the reporter that non-Muslims were allowed to transport legally purchased alcohol through any emirate to their home. Note that you need to present your alcohol license in these 'hole-in-the-wall' establishments in Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, etc to become a legal alcohol purchaser. The licence shows a monthly limit for purchases which depends on the applicants salary.
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 January 2011 - 17:04
Sorry, but I've had a Sharjah permit and used it in at least 3 other emirates. Sharjah doesn't have a liquor outlet.
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 January 2011 - 13:35
You can only get a license in the emirate of which you are resident (who issued your RP) So if you live in AD you get an AD permit but can use it in DXB
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 January 2011 - 13:32
So far as I know the only Emirate that does not issue a liquor permit is Fujairah - even Sharjah issues permits. You can use your Sharjah permit in Dubai or UAQ or RAK etc - the shops in UAQ and Ajman will either stamp your permit or not (your choice) - however, if you get picked up without the stamp the police will charge you. I imagine the shop would just say he didn't get it here and what proof would you have to the contrary. There was a blackmail scheme going a few years back where unlicensed people were buying in Ajman and then were followed and hit (minor fender bender, no damage) - the scammers would then tell the person with booze in his car but no permit that they would call the police, inform them that they had booze in the car unless the unlicensed person paid them XXXAED. Not worth the risk IMHO - getting a license is relatively painless and covers you in case of an accident in which booze is discovered in your car (but NOT if it's in your system). As for the old hole in the wall in Ajman - it was just across the sand from the Ajman law courts - the authorities were well aware of the practices there - like so many things though, unless there is a complaint or trouble - they turned a blind eye. DXB police used to conduct random checks at various hotel car exit points to catch people who had been drinking and then got behind the wheel. Don't know if that's still the case. <em>edited by marycatherine on 08/01/2011</em>
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 January 2011 - 12:16
This has always been the the law in UAE - however it is not always enforced. Technically you are only allowed to buy for your own personal consumption (no sharing even in your own home) and take your purchases directly home - no taking it somewhere else. Also, you're supposed to have a license to buy in a bar - hotel guests are allowed to buy without a permit at the hotel they're staying at. In practice, it would be rare for CID to take an interest in you and your alcohol consumption practices so long as you're not stupid and you're not bootlegging.
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 08 January 2011 - 08:34
Was in Giant last week and got some lovely veg from Lebanon - certainly comparable to the stuff from Holland in appearace but about 1/2 the price and actually tastes good - the stuff from Holland often tastes like the cardboard boxes they're shipped in. FFC has some good veg too - again, beware of the imported stuff from Northern Europe - it's so not worth it. Carrefour at Villagio had whole fresh turkeys from France at 20QAR/kilo - actually not too bad a price for fresh - it was delicious and am still enjoying sandwiches anda have frozen the carcass for soup later on. I agree with others, you can't go to just one store and get everything you want/need - I'm on the lookout for my brand of coffee beans but haven't found them yet (visited 3 different shops - I hate grocery shopping in Doha for exactly this reason, fortunately my brand of toilet paper reappeared on shelves before my supply ran out :) )
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 January 2011 - 16:13
Just visited the Ritz Carlton website - Porcini chef was offering a class and meal today and the masterchef class is offered on the 28th. I've made my reservation. I am still going to approach other hotels to see if a Saturday morning regular (monthly?) class can be arranged as many people (including those who responded to my original inquiry) are interested if the classes are held on Saturdays. Will keep you updated.
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 January 2011 - 07:24
If the villa is not new, can you ask to see previous months Utility bills at Kaahramma or from the landlord? Are there occupied villas nearby similar to yours where you might ask questions? Keep in mind your lifestyle will affect the costs - some people aren't home all day or don't have the AC on in rooms they aren't using - others have them going all day everyday while the heat lasts. When I paid for utilities I had ceiling fans installed in all my rooms - it made a big difference, but that was in another GCC country. Is the water currently on in the villa - go through and turn on all the taps, including showers, and flush all the toilets. Also check that the water pump (it will work on providing water to/from the tanks you see on most roofs or to the side of your home) is functioning properly. Do the same with all the light switches and perhaps the electrical outlets (take something you can plug in to test them. It sounds silly but it is really aggravating to move in and then try to run the kettle for a cup of tea and find the electrical outlet doesn't work (let alone the toilet doesn't flush). Make sure all the windows do open and that they have screens. If it is in a compound, try to visit at different times of day to get a feel for the traffic, the child situation (if any - some families allow their children to run riot on a constant basis and often late into the night). If the compound has a pool or other rec facilities, are they maintained properly (cleaned, etc) are they very busy, etc. HTH Forgot to add - who will be available for maintenance issues? Are they on site if a compound? Ask the neighbours what issues they have had and whether they're happy with the services provided. <em>edited by marycatherine on 07/01/2011</em>
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 07 January 2011 - 07:14
I used Qatar Pet Relocators (they have a website if you google) and was very happy with them. There are a couple of others I believe but can't comment from personal experience - but from what I've heard they're also quite capable.
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 06 January 2011 - 19:41
I found the last two times I sold up - I got my cleaning lady to help. I told her - get the highest price you can I'll give you 10% of the proceeds. Worked well for me, but my cleaning lady was also honest
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 06 January 2011 - 17:42
Get the passport renewed/replaced first and get the new RP in the new passport. While the RP is still valid, it's just an extra aggravation you don't need and you have time to fix it before you travel again. I have entered with an expired passport with current RP (RP renewed in June in old still valid passport and renewed passport while out of the country in July) entered with old (with RP) and new passport. They accept it at immigration but it's not liked. I had it switched over, a few days - painless <em>edited by marycatherine on 06/01/2011</em>
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 06 January 2011 - 14:28
Best to find a place that explicitly allows cats - that said, many people have them and so long as they don't make enough noise to disturb others, aren't smelly (litter tray), and you're prepared to foot the bill for any damage caused - may landlords allow them unofficially as well.
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 05 January 2011 - 20:44
The good doctor should visit any of the government hospital "pneumonia" wards (Al Qassimi, Al Rashid etc hospitals). HIV is unfortunately "alive" and well amongst the population in UAE (and the sufferers who remain in country are not expats) - a lot of local ladies (I have taught in UAE) are well aware too many male relatives visit local prostitutes or travel to places like Thailand for the *** tourist trade -
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 05 January 2011 - 20:01
If your furniture is unique and not easily available (at an affordable/comparable price) in NYC - take it with you if you really like it. Let everything else go. I have certain pieces (including a dining room table the entire RiverDance ensemble could perform on and it wouldn't budge) that I will take home because I will never find it in North America. Period. Taking the car is a waste of money - get what you can for it. Low mileage and Western lady driver (always a plus in the ad!) you may get a slight premium despite it being a Hyundai (they have a lower resale value than the Toyotas and Nissans which get better second hand prices).
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 04 January 2011 - 19:33
So glad to hear he's back home. I "lost" my dog a few months ago (cancer) after 14 years. I miss her terribly. I can't imagine not knowing where she was, it's hard enough knowing that she's gone for good. And she would have chased the cat and followed your husband home too! (she knew what side her bread was buttered on!!)
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 04 January 2011 - 18:21
There are many new Canadians who have no intention or desire to live in Canada long term. I work with one (and have worked with others who have no intention of living anywhere else but Canada). Someone referred to the former as Canadianese. They have met the terms and conditions of the Canadian government to get a Canadian passport. I would like the Canadian government, as do many other countries, require immigrants to renounce their "citizenship" with their birth country and take on the Canadian passport only. The person I work with has no intention of returning to Canada and will live in a 3rd world country until and unless (witness Beirut in 2005) they feel they "need" to go to Canada at the expense of the Canadian regular citizen. Before anyone asks. I spend 2 - 3 months in Canada (vacation time) per year and have no desire to live anywhere else permanently (I live in the GCC and earn $$$ like 99.99% of all of the expats here togo back to my HOME country and retire and spend $$ and pay taxes). The person I specifically refer to has no desire or intention of doing that, his idiotic email messages reflect it "greetings from God's country Kerala" and his real estate investments there (and divestments in Canada) confirm it. He is not shy about using the Canadian immigration system - and that's what burns most Canadians, you want to come you want to stay you want to contribute, welcome!! Otherwise, make your own country work. In many instances you have a democracy (in this particular case the largest in the world) - USE IT.
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 03 January 2011 - 20:02
As a suggestion, if the suit is a great fit and cut - find yourself a good tailor and get it copied if he needs/wants another. I have a friend who bought an Armani suit in Dubai at an end of season sale, had it altered in the Armani shop and then had it copied by a tailor. The copy was better looking and better made (IMHO) than the original and cost a 10th of the sale price including fabric
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 03 January 2011 - 19:59
Nearly everything is cheaper in Dubai (or surrounding emirates) than Doha. And choice is much greater in UAE as well. Having lived in Oman, UAE and Qatar - choice and price are better in the Emirates
marycatherine
1759
Posts
EW EXPERT
Latest post on 03 January 2011 - 19:56
Try to contact local vets and animal rescues i.e. K9 friends. If no luck contact me! I'd be interested if he's (a) housetrained and (b) knows his place amongst cats ( at least my cats would teach him)! Labs are lovely but they have destructive tails if your coffee table has knick knacks!
 
 
UAE Family Law 2026 | Divorce, Custody & Personal Status Guide for Expat Residents

Divorce in Dubai Explained: A 2026 Guide to UAE Family Law, Custody and Your Rights

Best music schools for kids in Dubai | Aureus Academy UAE

The Case for Music: Why Dubai’s Expat Mums Are Choosing Aureus

The Legal Framework of Real Estate in Dubai | Awatif Mohammad Shoqi Advocates & Legal Consultancy

The Legal Framework of Real Estate in Dubai

Top Online Schools in the UAE for Kids and Teenagers: CambriLearn

Why Expat Families in the UAE Are Choosing Online School Over Traditional Classrooms

How to get a divorce in Dubai as an expat resident

Marital Breakdown & Divorce: A Guide for Expat Mums Living in Dubai and Across the UAE

10 Essential Steps to Secure Your Child’s Educational Future

The Education Plan Every Expat Parent Wishes They’d Started Sooner

Kisari Kids - Awareness Parenting Coach Eva Szorad Interview

Getting Kids to Cooperate Without Punishment or Rewards - Aware Parenting with Eva from Kisari.Kids

UAE Emirati Lawyer Awatif Khouri in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Meet the Emirati Woman Breaking Grounds in UAE Law: Awatif Khouri

Top online British and US High Schools in the UAE: CambriLearn

Back-to-School, Reimagined: How UAE Families Are Choosing a Smarter Start to the School Year

Top 5 UK curriculum online schools for expat families and kids abroad

Top 5 Online Schools For Expat Families in the Middle East

How expats in Germany can get German pension refund

Bye Bye Germany - Hello German Pension Refund?

Mashreq NEO NXT Account | Why Kids and Teens Need Financial Education

Why Teens Need Real-World Financial Education?

International university transition tips

How to Make the Transition to University Life Easier

How to apply for Germany VBL Pension Refund as an expatriate | Germany Pension Refund

Bye Bye German Public Service Job - Hello VBL Pension Refund

Tourist SIM cards in Dubai guide

Tourist SIM Cards in Dubai: Where to Get One and Package Prices

World's most expensive cities to live in 2024

These Are the World's Most Expensive Cities To Live in 2024

Dubai ranked as one of the best cities to work in 2024

Dubai Ranked Among Top 5 Cities in the World to Work In

What are the signs that your online date is a fraud

8 Warning Signs Your Online Date is a Scammer

10 Expat Experiences You Should Check Off Before Repatriation

10 Expat Experiences You Should Check Off Before Leaving For Good

Best and Worst Countries to Get Started Abroad for New Expats

Best and Worst Countries for New Expats to Get Started Abroad

Under the Mango Tree by Robyn Fok | Expat Books

Expat Author Robyn Fok's 'Under the Mango Tree' Deals With Pet Grief & Loss

Expat Wife, Happy Life: Interview With Expat Author Florence Reisch

(Images: Supplied)

Expat Interview: Meet Florence Reisch, Author of 'Expat Wife, Happy Life!'

Remembering Queen Elizabeth II: A Tribute by UAE Expats

Remembering an Extraordinary Woman: A Tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

10 reasons why expat women love the UAE

10 Reasons Why the UAE is a Popular Choice for Expat Women

6 Common Fears of Moving Abroad By Yourself and How to Overcome Them

Moving to the UAE Alone: 6 Common Fears and How to Overcome Them

Ultimate Babyshop Baby and Toddler Travel Packing List

These Baby Travel Essentials Are Must-Haves For Your Next Family Getaway

Requirements to apply for a UAE Golden Visa

How Do I Obtain a UAE Golden Visa? Requirements, Eligibility, and Process Explained

5 Tip for Expats to Survive Long-Distance Relationships

5 Tip for Expats to Survive Long-Distance Relationships

Opening a bank account in the UAE

A Newcomer to the UAE? What to Consider When Choosing a Bank for Opening an Account

Culture shock in the United Arab Emirates for expats

14 Ways You Will Experience Culture Shock in the UAE

Why you shouldn't upload your resume on your LinkedIn profile

5 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Upload a Resume to Your LinkedIn Profile

4 Ways to Network as an Expat

4 Ways to Network as an Expat

8 Expat Problems That Are Just Too Real

8 Expat Problems That Are Just Too Real