MKZ | ExpatWoman.com
 

MKZ

MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 July 2015 - 16:09
If you call them and order over the phone, they will accept an international CC. I have done it several times now. I have found that most US companies, who will not accept Intl. credit card payment online, will accept International CC when you call them and order by telephone.
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 July 2015 - 10:20
Not available in Dubai, you can Shop&Ship, it's easy.
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 July 2015 - 20:14
We got an exemption for my DD last year. We had an Ed Psych report and the school really supported the recommendation to apply for an exemption, there is a huge amount of admin on the schools behalf to pull together the application. We had no contact with the KHDA at all, the school handled everything for us, it took about 6 months of processing before we were notified of the exemption, the school had warned us it would take some time, so we were prepared for that. I think the school's input is probably as equally influential as the Ed Pscyh report. Silk, is your report from a Dubai based Ed Psych ? I understand that is also very important in how the KHDA view the report. Did your school submit the application or did you do it personally ?
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 June 2015 - 18:06
LOL Silvstet, too true !
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 June 2015 - 13:27
I didn't 'punish' her, she will be paid at end of month as normal, I just didn't make any exceptional arrangements as per her request. Last year she asked and I gave, this year she asked and I didn't, there was no precedence ever set.. DH is around, so animals should be safe, she may be p'd off with me and fed up housekeeping, but she is a big animal lover..
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 June 2015 - 09:47
Thanks for the replies everyone. Before I left, I was doing my usual clear out, I always give her first choice of helping herself to whatever she wants, the rest I give to friends and the remaining to charity. Before I even had the chance to finish pulling everything out and offer them to her, she was asking me if she could help herself, of course, I said yes, but was biting my tongue to not mention that she thinks "I'm mean". She also asked for her summer salaries in advance, which I always used to give her while we were away, but this time I told her that DH will pay her at the end of each month as normal, she was shocked and not happy at all. Her work is getting worse by the day according to my DH, she burnt something she was making for herself and never even bothered to clean the equipment, he had to point it out to her, usual response "I'm sorry, I forgot!". He also was looking for the cats to put them out and he looked behind the sofa and he said it was filthy, had not been cleaned in months. If he is complaining (he never notices anything) than the writing is on the wall,
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 June 2015 - 20:16
Thanks you all very much for the replies. Daza, yes I have taken screenshots of the comments. Beebers, that is it really, I have enough stress to be dealing with, she is here to help and not add to the stress. Cherpie, no, that wasn't me, this is the only time I have discovered FB comments. Tallybait, it's not my first time having a housemaid, and you could be right that we have crossed the line but generally I don't think so, and even though my kids are FB friends with her,, they really don't bother with FB anymore. It seems everyone (except the old foggies like me) have moved on to Twitter and Instagram. Regards her workload, I absolutely know it is a light workload and plenty of time off, there is no ambiguity about that whatsoever. Maroosh, especially here in the UAE where there are such strict social media rules about slander etc, a bit foolhardy on her behalf. I will never want to be her friend on FB, but it didn't bother me that the kids wanted to friend her or vice versa, I didn't think there was anything untoward about it. My kids only posted music stuff and she was only posting religious stuff. Anyway, glad they were FB friends, and that their Mom snoops on their FB page, LOL, otherwise I would never have known. PinkLily, I could absolutely do without her, my kids are older now and I don't need that flexibility anymore, that you need when you have little ones. Having thought about letting her go now, the timing is just wrong, as we are leaving this week for the summer and I need her to stay in the house and look after the animals, I just wouldn't have the time to find someone else before we leave.. I was very tempted to write a comment on her FB page, but decided against it. When I come back in August, I will let her know that I know about her comments and her complaints about me, her contract ends in October and she can go home then or earlier if she wants. I won't be giving her an end of employment gratuity, if we were leaving Dubai and having to let her go, than I would have done so for sure. But now that she will be leaving because of her dissatisfaction with her employer than she will leave with nothing more than she is entitled to. Silly girl, as we would have been very generous to her and she could have had a nice little lump sum to help her on her way. Thank you again ladies.
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 26 April 2015 - 15:03
The other downside is that they don't do school term times. So you buy 3 month blocks of 2 sessions per week (can't do 1 session). So those who went away for spring break missed 4 sessions and they don't allow make up sessions. The next 3 month block runs until end of July (or maybe mid July), so those who leave end of June are paying for 3 or 4 weeks of sessions which they cannot use. <em>edited by MKZ on 26/04/2015</em>
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 26 April 2015 - 14:57
much more than 20 in the gym, maybe 40 to 50, trying to imagine how many, but for sure when they start each class there are at least 4 rows of at least 8 to 10 kids per row (and that's the girls only). They are split into different levels, but all in the same room using the same equipment. I am sure there are session times when the classes are less crowded, but I think the classes from 4pm onwards are over-subscribed. Fit Republic did a customer satisfaction survey recently and they said they have had lots of complaints about the class sizes, so I guess it will take them a while to figure out how best to manage the demand. <em>edited by MKZ on 26/04/2015</em>
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 26 April 2015 - 14:07
Overcrowded classes, and I mean REALLY overcrowded. It's still a bit disorgansied, Facilities are good and it seems the trainers are well qualified, on paper at least. Don't know how they can operate in such a crowded environment. I doubt it would be the place to send serious gymnasts though, my DD is a beginner and will always only do it for fun, so I think it is fine for that.
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 26 March 2015 - 18:55
Had he flown in that morning or was it an overnighter in Barcelona?
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 26 March 2015 - 18:44
It beggars belief. What were the chance's of the Captain leaving his seat on a short 2 hour flight though? Mass murder, RIP to everyone
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 March 2015 - 21:51
Yes, GP, I was just looking at the images and trying to figure out the location, it is definitely not attached to Dubai Mall, and not in the location I thought either, so it's right in the centre of Downtown then? I can't believe they are building an extension to Dubai Mall, unbelievable.
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 March 2015 - 21:39
I think the Opera District is totally separate to Dubai Mall, i.e. on the opposite side of the road on DIFC side. Need to check it out again though.
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 March 2015 - 20:20
Tragic and terrifying. RIP to all those on board, and strength to all the affected families.
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 March 2015 - 20:00
polly, what do you mean about the Opera house going where the More Cafe used to be? are we talking about the same location? in thebasement opposite Pottery Barn?
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 March 2015 - 14:32
Dubai Mall one is closed also, went there the other day and it's gone. The company must have gone out of business.
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 March 2015 - 13:59
It was suggested to me by someone who was selling it, but when I really researched it online, there is no proof it has any health benefits, in fact, it's the contrary, using ionised water can cause health problems. So I passed on it. Do plenty of online research before you part with your money. <em>edited by MKZ on 22/03/2015</em>
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 March 2015 - 22:51
Muscat.
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 March 2015 - 09:30
"You must be PMS'ing", guaranteed to send me ballistic.
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 02 March 2015 - 10:38
So sorry Cherpie, Would he allow you to work? at least if you are going to stay until the kids are old enough, having something else in your life might make the next few years somewhat tolerable.
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 02 March 2015 - 09:29
What about support from some social organisations that support women and children suffering domestic abuse.
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 02 March 2015 - 09:00
Oh you poor thing, don't know what to say to you. I know you have said you will never leave without your kids. If you had money, I have read about organisations that help 'rescue' kids who have been abducted in custody battles, it's extreme and don't know how it works or if its feasible. Why will he not let you leave? he obviously has no feelings for you at all, other than hatred. I feel for you and your poor kids.
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 25 February 2015 - 18:51
Thanks Blondie, I will try there next time.
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 25 February 2015 - 18:50
I absolutely should have checked beforehand, lesson learned. I am reluctantly 'happy' to pay over the odds for the hair stylist, but a threading is a threading and doesn't warrant their excessive prices.
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 February 2015 - 10:57
They are very different curriculum, ASD is purely American curriculum and GWA is IB. I think most North Americans have a preference for ASD, it is a well recognised school with fabulous facilities and great teachers and support, everyone I know with kids there are very happy. GWA has fabulous facilities but the reputation is mixed, it is still a relatively new school and a lot of parents are not happy there. ETA, Personally I would not be swayed by the bus route or the fact the school allowed you to retain the grade you wanted. <em>edited by MKZ on 21/02/2015</em>
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 February 2015 - 08:17
And another building apparently plagued with false fire alarms. Thank god it seems everyone got out okay, well done to the fire teams and the residents.
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 February 2015 - 11:34
Fifth disease is doing the rounds, my DD just had it. It starts with a fever and then a rash all over the body and big red cheeks, I initially thought she had somehow contracted measles too. Check it out and see if your sons rash is similar. My DD had an allergic reaction a few years ago and she was given a cortisone injection, so it is not unheard of.
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 February 2015 - 11:10
At first I thought that Chris Fade segment was pre-planned, or the couple set it up for the fun of it, but the guy sounded genuinely shocked and upset, and Chris Fade and the others were adamant it was not staged and was genuine. Moonflower, what a laugh hahaha. Has to be a 100% wind-up, can't be anything but.
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 February 2015 - 18:34
Yes, welcome to Dubai ! What Meadows are you in?
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 February 2015 - 22:35
No I am not Jordanian, just sick at the depravity of these animals. RIP young man and all the others too.
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 January 2015 - 08:04
The nice thing about Dubai is that even with a long work day, DH is still usually home for dinner, the commutes are very short compared to living in other big cities. When we lived in London my DH was a weekend dad. he left home before the kids were up and he arrived home after they went to bed. Here, he can drop them to school every morning and still be in the office by 8.15am. If the company does provide a travel allowance, it is usually for the whole family. There is so much to do here in Dubai and so many visitors, that we just spend money like water, maybe Bahrain would be a better option if you wanted to save (although I have no clue what kind of things to do in Bahrain, but can't be as exciting and available as Dubai). That being said, I am loving living in Dubai, long may it last.
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 January 2015 - 13:07
Faulty goods should be refunded. Tell the store that you will be contacting the Consumer Rights department and at the same time do contact them. Most places here state that they only do exchange, but if the goods are obviously faulty, they should be refunded if you don't want a replacement. Particularly in your case where the items are less than 7 days old.
MKZ
34
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 January 2015 - 01:18
This is what is scary about the 'new' terrorism, it is now the lone wolves riding below the radar who are the scariest and most dangerous, , the organised groups can be detected and monitored, but it's the crazy one's who are the ones to be feared.
 
 
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