m_king | ExpatWoman.com
 

m_king

m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 October 2011 - 12:30
Oooh... Good to hear. Thanks.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 October 2011 - 07:48
I was going to go with a caterer to do canapés for a light lunch cocktail for DH's 60th but the gift I got him as kinda put me on a tight budget (!!!) plus, I was thinking outdoors and then I remembered where we live and the weather!! Sooo... can any recommend a restaurant that can provide decent food for about 8 people. I'm thinking I might order a load of BBQed meats from Arz and then do a few salads myself but am open to suggestions for other restaurants. And doesn't have t be arabic. Also... OMG... forgot I need a cake. Might bake it myself because even if this is a surprise party, I can probably still get away with saying I want to bake him a BDay cake. But in case I decide to order one, where can I get a really good, non choc (allergic!) bday cake at a reasonable price?? MANY thanks.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 01 October 2011 - 10:01
But Gelish is not the same as Bio sculpture. I haven't tried bio sculpture yet. Want to but haven't got around to it. From what I understand, it is essentially falsies that don't damage your nails and might even help them by providing protection.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 30 September 2011 - 09:53
I am an ardent Shakespeare's fan. Am literally at my local one almost every single day. But I find the breakfast very sorely lacking. The sausages are nasty, the potatoes usually dry, the hash browns have an herb I don't care for in them (sage??) and the eggs are sometimes, but not always badly done. I find the fried eggs are generally ok, the benedict usually way over done and the omelets have a funny flavor to them! Maybe it's just me.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 28 September 2011 - 13:13
Gosh, no. Never seen them here. I got my two Advocates from the US through Shop and Ship. Was actually cheaper to do that then buy a lower end Britax from Mothercare.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 28 September 2011 - 13:10
I lived there for a couple of years. Left in 2006. And I LOVED every moment of it. And I actually think you CAN compare to Dubai. At least, I grew up in AbU Dhabi and was shocked at home 'familiar' HK felt!! Only because you're looking at a small place with a strong British influence and heavily populated by expats, so similar dynamics, I found. But I think whether or not you like it will depend enormously on what kind of lifestyle you enjoy. My couple of years there were very intense both work-wise and play-wise and although I was very sad to leave, I did the right thing to go. Now that I'm married and have a LO, would I go back... hmmmm... not sure. Maybe. But only on a REALLY good package so we could afford one of those nice big villas!
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 September 2011 - 17:43
Oh gosh... Sorry! Didn't think to just google it!! Thank you!
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 September 2011 - 17:41
I feel like such an idiot being so excited about this but yes, it's so refreshing to hear from others who are, as you say PN, on the same page! I'm sick of the pro-dress lot. Sorry but no, this is NOT a free country! And frankly, even western countries have decency laws. Ok, they may not be as conservative as here but here is not a western country.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 September 2011 - 17:08
But a company can sponsor a "cleaner" who can, I imagine, clean your home if it is rented by the company. I would think she can even live in if your place is rented by the company.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 September 2011 - 16:47
I don't think PN is suggesting it's "positive" attention. Sadly though it passes for that to those who dress for it! But honestly, it's not just people like that. I see lots of women who are simply dressed inappropriately for here. Clearly they're not trying to look slut-y but the fact remains that a skirt THAT short or shorts THAT short, paired with platform wedges and a fitted tank top is just not the thing to be wearing in certain locations / circumstances in this country. Come ON. A little respect for the country you are visiting / living in.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 September 2011 - 16:47
sorry PN... was posting at the same time! You and I, Princess_I, may regard that as not very positive attention, but unfortunately, most women see that as the most positive form of attention..its all about individual perceptions i suppose...and i noticed here, its particularly skewed...again..my guess is insecurity issues
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 September 2011 - 16:42
Gege_DXB, I think you mean Grand Abu Shakra, yes? I didn't know there was one in Internet City. I know them from YEARS ago in Abu Dhabi. LOVE their falafels and lamb chops. I know they are opening a new place right by MOE but in the meantime, can I have their internet city number? All that said, aside from them forgetting to add the hommos, I really did quite like Automatic. The food was very good. At least, most of it. Didn't really go for their fatoush, truth be told. but otherwise all was very authentic and very tasty.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 September 2011 - 16:39
VERY well said. I agree 100% with all you say. SO glad to see so many who do agree! just found this article on gulf news...seems it is only directed to courts/prosecution premises..in which case it is only fair....i was under the impression they were going to implement this throughout Dubai... I also agree with the rest in regards to the amount of people out here who dress inappropriately . its just pathetic to be honest. Its not that hard, and it makes zero difference in ones life if they have to cover up/dress modestly as per local law. I don't see why people continuously insist on disregarding what the local government tries to implement here. It's really not that big a deal. I love fashion and work in fashion..i keep an open mind about all kinds of tastes and preferences, and love to wear figure hugging, feminine dresses, or the occasional low cut top (all within reason of course, and at appropriate locations), but for the sake of respecting where i live i have no problem dressing appropriately in public places...it has zero effect on my life!! its not hard/challenging, nor do i feel like it limits any "freedom" rights as some like to argue...i personally think those who make such a big deal out of covering up or dressing modestly (and go out of their way to go against it) are just plain idiots with nothing better to do in life.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 September 2011 - 14:57
hee hee... gotta be said, hasn't it! PS. Legal brigade please note, Im not looking to charge the OP ;-)
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 September 2011 - 14:54
OH! Don't get me started. White LINEN or white LIGHT cotton trousers in particular!
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 September 2011 - 14:53
I go in there all the time and have never seen any kittens!! I've seen two good sized white and ginger cats. Are they two of the ones you mean? They're LOVELY!! And I have only ever seen people smile at them and be nice to them (thank goodness!!). I keep meaning to bring something for them and always forget. Must do so! Security guard can sod off. But no, sorry, don't know anything about them. In fact, seems they just appeared one day.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 September 2011 - 14:50
Agree with DubaiCat... can we extend to malls and supermarkets too?? I get a sore neck every time I go to Spinneys from doing double takes! Must add... is refreshing to hear people agree with this rather than slagging the country / people off on the odd occasion that someone IS told to leave a mall or other establishment for the way they are dressed. And no, I'm not local, I'm a westerner. Just irks me that some people can be so disrespectful of the country's beliefs and laws. Rant over.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 September 2011 - 14:43
No one have anything to add... advice, opinions, experience??
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 September 2011 - 14:42
Automatic was excellent!! Really good mtabbal (they forgot the hommos!!) and really friendly. Oh, and I really liked their meat shawerma. Thanks again. They'll definitely be a keeper!
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 September 2011 - 14:41
Thanks pollydxb... had a look but it doesn't seem like ti goes anywhere really. Just along the beachfront of the hotel!?
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 24 September 2011 - 19:02
Thank you ladies! Much appreciated.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 21 September 2011 - 07:59
Yes, agree re price and knowledge and babies. But frankly, why pay if there is a truly equally good free option??? Besides, am trying to source an option for a group and the paid options are expensive for some in the group.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 21 September 2011 - 07:54
OMG... is this some cruel joke??? Where have I BEEN?? Seriously? There's a Timmie's OPEN? HERE? IN DUBAI??????
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 20 September 2011 - 18:27
gentle bump... anyone know anything about all this??
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 20 September 2011 - 07:37
Oh yes, I had heard about this but wasn't sure what it was called. Thanks for pointing it out. But yes, a bit pricy. Can anyone advise? Is the Back To Basics worth it? Is Synergie or Health Bay better or equally good? Are ones like City Hospital's just as good? Many thanks. m
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 September 2011 - 12:23
I know there are other threads about this but they seem a bit old so I wonder if anyone can help me out with this. A bunch of us are looking to do a course. We have mostly toddlers but there are a few babies on the way. I know that Synergy and Health Bay both do courses but I heard that some hospitals like City do free ones. Can anyone advise whether the paid ones are better than the free ones, which is best, etc...? Many thanks
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 September 2011 - 16:00
Yes thanks... already found paper world. Sadly they don't have The Age!! But really like the gift basket/time capsule idea with the various things from candy to music and stuff.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 September 2011 - 14:23
Ok... finally settled on a gift idea. And will throw in a little surprise catered cocktail party. But I'm really icing this idea too: "An all about 1951 album including things like..." from CycloneT. And I know you can buy these year gift basket things online and some are really good. But they're all from US or UK web sites and DH is Aussie. Does anyone know if such a thing can be found from Oz so he can relate more???
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 August 2011 - 19:46
FIFTY NINE small gifts AND one big one! I get on here because I'm having difficulty with the one big one and I get told to come up with fifty nine more!?! LOL... It's a great idea but OMG... 59 small gifts!! I do like the lordship title!! Hmmm... ok, one small gift down... ! K... I may just be mad enough to try it but in case anyone has any other ideas in the singular, please do share.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 August 2011 - 15:34
Google "Home Movie Depot". They have an "Easybox" option where you pay a flat fee (much less than standard rate) to digitise anything (photos, slides, negatives, 8mm film) that you can fit in a 13 x 18 x 3 inch box. They're in the states so don't know if shipping will make it too expensive or if it's still worthwhile.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 August 2011 - 15:28
Ok, So DH turns 60 in two months and am at a total loss!!! I tried googling and all the ideas are about being over the hill and about making the man in your life feel he is still needed!!! My DH is SO not even half way up the hill and we have an almost 2yo and he's the type who can fix anything and is very fit! Problem being he's also the laid back type who needs/wants nothing and sees NO sense in having expensive things when there are perfectly decent less expensive options (clothes, shoes, watches etc...) We can't go away for a romantic weekend or anything like that since we have a 2yo. And there are no 'experiences' (bungee jumping, dinner hanging from a crane, etc) that interest him!!! I'm sure many of you know the type! Any of you come across any brilliant solutions to this problem?? WHAT can I do???
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 August 2011 - 15:05
They do say your sense of taste sharpens. I never noticed anything like that but could be that. Congrats by the way!
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 02 July 2011 - 15:47
Thanks. I'll ask her if she's tried that.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 02 July 2011 - 05:28
Thank you both. Will try to find out what she is considered and try to take it from there. If anyone can add anything, please feel free. <em>edited by m_king on 02/07/2011</em>
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 01 July 2011 - 06:29
I second Istanbul! Absolutely MARVELOUS place for SO many reasons and in SO many ways.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 01 July 2011 - 06:22
The cross is fine, as long as it's worn respectfully. I don't think the locals would take too kindly to an early Madonna look! LOL... And gym gear is fine too as long as it's not too revealing. I mean, if it's leggings and a loose top, you're fine. If it's a little halter-type top, then no. Sorry, not sure what you mean exactly by a 'brief t-shirt'. In any case, you wouldn't wear an abaya. That in itself could be considered offensive if they knew you to be a foreigner who hasn't converted. I have to add that people wear all sorts of completely inappropriate clothing in Dubai and they generally get away with it very easily. But assuming you want to be respectful, which you clearly do, then... well, see answers above! Good luck with the packing!!
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 01 July 2011 - 06:15
I found this in the Labour Law but I'm not sure that I understand it!! As I said, she's on a 2 year contract. This article below starts off saying that "If the service contract is of an indefinite duration" but then part 2B, which is the one that would apply, sounds to me like all she has to do is give 2 weeks notice. But it seems contradictory to start off referring to a contract of indefinite duration and then to be talking about contracts of less than 1 year or more than 1 year and less than 5... etc... Article (49) If the service contract is of an [b'>indefinite duration[/b'> any of the two parties thereto may terminate it without giving the reasons for the termination. In this case the party intending to terminate the contract shall notify the other party in writing as follows:- 1. In respect of the workers who receive their wages annually or monthly, the notification shall be given not less than one month prior to the date of the termination if the period of service is five years or less. If the period of service is more than five years, the notification period shall be at least two months prior to the date of termination. 2. In all other cases the notification shall be given in accordance with the following periods: A) If the period of service is less than one year the notification period shall be at least one week. B) If the period of service is more than one year and less than five years the notification period shall be at least two weeks. C) If the service period is more than five years the notification period shall be at least one month. If the contract is terminated without observing these periods, the party terminating the contract shall be obligated to compensate the other party for an amount equivalent to the wage for the notice period or the remaining part thereof.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 01 July 2011 - 05:56
Does anyone have any idea about this... If someone is signed to a 2-year contract and wants to leave after completing one year and is prepared to pay whatever fee for breaking the contract, can the employer refuse to let them out of their contract? I don't know if it makes any difference what the person does but this lady works as a maid for an agency that provides part-time cleaners/maids. Really appreciate if someone can advise on this as this poor woman is desperate to leave the company and the country. Thanks in advance.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 June 2011 - 13:28
Ah! Thanks SO much! Was scrolling through and was taking forever and wasn't finding anything. WIll look for these. DD will be delighted as has been very confused as to why I won't provide cartoons when she hands me the remote!
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 June 2011 - 11:17
I just wanted to say thank you for all the ideas. I am now armed with a mini etch-a-sketch, Little People, plastic animal figurines, all packed into little bags and packages. I have triangular crayons that won't roll away, a tiny cuddly toy dog that barks, and a little purse full of funky hair bands that DD loves to play with. And of course, my iPhone with lots of videos of her that she likes to watch!! Happy travels everyone.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 15 June 2011 - 08:44
Yes. Excellent idea. In fairness I was thinking Madinat but, a dhow dinner cruise! Bateaux Dubai is the best isn't it?? Great idea! Thank you. They do alcohol, yes?
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 15 June 2011 - 08:04
Thank you all.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 June 2011 - 14:01
Staying at Grand Millenium. mmm... I went to Beachcombers for their lunch buffet and strongly disliked it!! Maybe dinner buffet is better?? Also, was kind of hoping for something a little less casual. Again, maybe it's not so casual for dinner??
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 June 2011 - 12:14
Thanks gemm but no, it wasn't this one. Although, I could always give him a try! But the thread I had seen was one where numerous people were raving about someone. Can anyone else recommend either Mike Small or someone else?? Thanks.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 June 2011 - 22:20
minxy, went into Daiso today and didn't find them! They only had packs of 2 that look a bit naf. Bought them anyway as am quite sure LO won't care. But just wondered if anyone had seen them.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 June 2011 - 20:58
Sorry if I'm asking a repeat but I can't seem to find the thread I had once seen where everyone was highly recommending this guy who I think was an international financial or investment advisor. I really need one. Anyone?? Thanks.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 June 2011 - 20:56
exile, I plan on valium but for me rather than the LO!! eu-sweetheart... just think... we might have done the trip together!! The closer we get, the more I regret that that's not happening!! I forget who asked but I got a tiny etch-a-sketch from ELC Does anyone know where I can get those little sheer, cloth gift-bags with the drawstrings?
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 June 2011 - 19:57
Oh, thanks so much for that famn. Is the Pullman as well priced as the Grand Millennium? I've gotten really good pricing so far and would kind of like to stick to it as this is more of a 3 to 4 star conference rather than a 5 star one, if you know what I mean.
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 June 2011 - 16:24
No one has anything on the Grand Millennium??
m_king
618
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 June 2011 - 16:17
fluffyfrank, I saw the aquadraw things at ELC yesterday but thought maybe my DD might not be too interested yet. We haven't really gotten into drawing! I always thought she was too young and we're always out and about really. Maybe I should get her one and see if she likes it. If she's into it, I'll take it along and if not, it can wait a couple of months until she's more interested. thanks sallystreet... never crossed my mind to try carrefour!!
 
 
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?

UAE Emirati Lawyer Awatif Khouri in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

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

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

10 Secrets to Happiness as an Expat

10 Secrets to Finding Happiness as an Expat

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

How to Make New Friends in a Foreign Country

How to Make New Friends in a Foreign Country

Top 10 Countries with the Best Quality of Life

Top 10 Countries with the Best Quality of Life

The best European cities for new expats

Pictured: Prague

The Best Cities in Europe for Expat Arrivals

House in Husavik

10 Amazing Things To Do In Iceland

How to Make Your Own Life as an Expat and Why It’s Important

How to Make Your Own Life as an Expat and Why It’s Important

The Labriz eforea spa location

Why Seychelles is One of the Best Holiday Destinations

The Real Expat: Chasing Your Dreams to Find Your True Purpose

The Real Expat: Chasing Your Dreams to Find Your True Purpose