natashab | ExpatWoman.com
 

natashab

natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 June 2013 - 14:09
Hi there I was hoping someone could help me with a query. We have a UK property that is being managed by an agent and they charge us VAT for their service charge and any work carried out. I recently spoke to my financial advisor who said we shouldn't pay VAT as we are non-uk resident but the agency has said we do pay VAT because it is a service. Just wondering what other landlords do? TIA
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 May 2013 - 17:22
Hi there Have you been given induction info yet? We have accepted the place but haven't heard anything back since..
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 April 2013 - 14:19
Thanks for all the suggestions! Having discussed further with a travel consultant am thinking of going from Colombo to Dambulla and from there do the Minneriya National park - I have been told we can do a jeep safari to see the elephants which is the main thing for the kids. We can then see what else is reasonably near for us to see. I have been told Dambulla is approx 3 hrs drive from Colombo - does anyone know if this is correct? I thought about Kandy but isn't that quite far from Colombo? Thanks again
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 April 2013 - 22:05
Thanks for the recommendation - that sounds lovely! Apologies for being unclear but I meant what part in Sri Lanka that woulddn't be too far from the airport (ie more than 3ish hours?)
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 April 2013 - 14:23
Hi there Does anyone know of any good swimming instructors that will do private lessons in the Springs for a 2 and 3 year old? Also would consider taking them to a swim school if someone can recommend but would need them to have a lesson together as I don't think one will be happy to watch while the other swims! Have done a search but thought I would check for up to date info. TIA for any help.
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 25 March 2013 - 18:52
Great. Thank you.
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 25 March 2013 - 16:23
Has anyone seen any small baskets and chicks anywhere? Am looking for some to make little baskets with small Easter eggs for some children. TIA <em>edited by natashab on 25/03/2013</em>
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 March 2013 - 15:56
i am based near the floating bridge and if possible want to get rid today or tomorrow as i may have to go abroad on short notice. is this possible natasha? Yes, may be able to pick them up tonight but could be quite late, otherwise tomorrow afternoon? You can email me your number and I will call to arrange. Thanks <em>edited by natashab on 14/03/2013</em>
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 March 2013 - 14:09
Yes please! Would make a great anniversary gift for my DH! How can I contact you?
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 March 2013 - 19:51
Thanks for all your replies. Had a look in H&M and M&S but didn't find much. WIll check out Daiso. MrsB, where is Tichlibo?
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 March 2013 - 21:17
Thanks starsouthern. Was that MOE or Festival City?
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 February 2013 - 08:07
Bump
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 26 February 2013 - 20:47
Hi there If you had a choice of sending your primary aged child to WIS or JPS which would you choose and why? Not sure where to send my LO and looking for some personal experiences. TIA <em>edited by natashab on 27/02/2013</em>
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 February 2013 - 20:36
The Toy Store in MOE often has them.
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 February 2013 - 17:14
Hi Marinaki I did not have any luck finding it in Dubai and ended up getting one from Amazon UK and having it sent over. I think they don't have it here as it is not a current movie. Sorry
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 January 2013 - 17:32
Hi Nayaab We did manage to avoid the embassy charges but I can't remember exactly how! I think my maid checked in India what she would need and if I remember correctly we just needed to make sure we sent her contract with her salary stated and that was enough for them to allow her to leave India. HTH
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 January 2013 - 09:25
I have used a company called Rainbow to ship stuff over - I am not sure if you need a residency Visa but may be worth giving them a call? The number is 050 747 3986. Let me know if you have any luck.
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 January 2013 - 16:20
I don't know which school but I do know of other non-Gems schools that do the same.
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 16:34
Hi there Does anyone know where I can get a junior drum kit in Dubai? I am looking for a real drum kit, not a toy one. I know there are a few music shops in Deira but I was hoping to check if they have one before I wonder around the shops. TIA <em>edited by natashab on 13/01/2013</em>
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 January 2013 - 14:16
Hi I hear what you are saying about bringing a package back for a 'stranger'. I guess I thought it might be ok as it has been sent from a toy shop. I once had a very kind lady bring something back for me that was delivered to her directly from amazon. I think I may have found a reasonable courier company or I can open a shop n shop account and get it that way. Thanks anyway for the replies.
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 January 2013 - 09:34
It is with my uncle in Houston. Will the US postal service send a package to Dubai and is it reliable?
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 November 2012 - 15:59
My dentist recommended extraction as it is the wisdom tooth so he feels the tooth is not necessary. It is not a deep cavity but I have never had a filling before and have heard extraction is very painful so guess I wanted to hear which is less painful!
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 November 2012 - 15:48
Bump - anyone else?
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 November 2012 - 10:54
Hi, yes it is for Sep 2013. JPS haven't done assessments yet, WIS don't do assessments. I think WIS have started offering places. <em>edited by natashab on 20/11/2012</em>
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 November 2012 - 07:59
Where in Thailand? We went to Phuket and stayed in holiday inn mai khao beach, not too far from the airport and very kid friendly. They had a kids club and children's playground and staff loved were very friendly to our little ones.
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 November 2012 - 19:52
Hi there We are currently in the process of buying a buy to let in the UK and have had no problem re mortgage although you need a bigger deposit and will pay higher interest than if it is residential. We used Liquid Expat mortgages but the mortgage is with Natwest and I think it would have been better (cheaper at least!) if we had gone directly to Natwest but if you feel you need a range of options to choose from a broker like Liquid Expat could give you a few options to consider (I think they give you an idea of what is available before you make a commitment anyway). Good luck!
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 October 2012 - 17:34
Hi I used them earlier in the year based on recommendations here and have to say I wasn't very happy - the guy who does stuff back in the UK seemed very good but Stuart gave me a LOT of incorrect information and I don't think the application process was particularly smooth, in fact I would say he wasted quite a lot of my time. I definitely would have been better off going directly to the bank. We have now got a mortgage so they will help you find one but it may be worth considering going directly to the lender, depending on who the lender is. Some are very familiar with dealing with expat mortgages. HTH <em>edited by natashab on 07/10/2012</em>
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 September 2012 - 16:39
Hi again My husband thinks we need to hold on to the stroller for a bit longer - sorry. I think Mothercare in Dubai Mall stock them. Also, not sure if mine is the GT model - what is the GT model?
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 September 2012 - 14:22
Hi Do you mean the mini jogger? We have one that I might be selling soon - when do you need it by? (When I say soon I mean mid to end Oct). <em>edited by natashab on 11/09/2012</em>
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 August 2012 - 18:55
We use Neil at Prosperity based on a few recommendations from here and have been happy so far.
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 August 2012 - 17:12
Thanks. Where can I get natural Shea butter?
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 August 2012 - 16:29
Thanks for your replies. I have been using the L'Occitane cream which has shea butter i think and it does help but anytime i forget the crack bleeds and is very painful. Will go to the podiatrist and see what they say.
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 August 2012 - 12:55
We go to a salon called 'youngsters' in JLT. I think they charge 35 + 10 for a first haircut certificate with a lock of hair. I like them because my son is reluctant to get his hair cut but they have iPads, DVDs etc to help entertain the kids. They are in lake plaza I think which is cluster T, basement level. <em>edited by natashab on 18/08/2012</em>
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 August 2012 - 15:56
Thanks for your reply - it is actually the mortgage company asking me.
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 August 2012 - 20:27
Have checked with the bank and they said it is fine to start a new contract with the same tenants but they cannot renew a tenancy. Looks like I misunderstood what it meant! Thanks for your replies. <em>edited by natashab on 10/08/2012</em>
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 August 2012 - 18:17
It does seems crazy. I will call the bank on mon and see what they say. I wondered if this was standard but people just didn't follow it. It would be a real pain to find new tenants every year!
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 June 2012 - 14:18
Hi there We got ours from the UK but they had them in Mothercare in Dubai Mall when I was looking. When are you looking to buy it? We aren't selling ours yet but may do in a few months.
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 June 2012 - 21:44
Haven't seen any toys/books but have seen t shirts and pyjamas in Marks and Spencers.
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 April 2012 - 20:52
Hi. The one you are looking for is imported and I think the only supermarket that sell it is Choitrams but they don't always have it available.
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 March 2012 - 12:46
I met the lady from uk yesterday as she is in Dubai this week and next, who sorts all of this for you, from finding it to letting it and she can put you in touch with mortgages and tax advisers, and coordinates the whole sha-bang.... she does not advertise though and you have to be referred, she uses liquid mortgages too... if you want to send me your email address I can refer you - as technically I might be a client soon so I can refer you or you can ask liquid about her... Hi wendyone - does she charge a fee and if so how much? my email is natashabdubai at hotmail dot com Thanks
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 March 2012 - 10:56
So am i right in thinking we would have to pay tax on any 'earnings' from the rent based on what we have left after the mortgage is paid? I think we have tax free allowance up to a certain point as well. Then, for Capital Gains tax, this would only be paid once the property is sold and it is based on how much we 'earned' with an annual allowance of 10000 GBP? Is that correct? Thanks
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 March 2012 - 10:00
Thanks for the advice so far. We have spoken to liquid mortgages and lloyds and have a mortgage in principle. Location will definitely be important and we will choose something near the tube station. WIll also factor in ground rent/maintenance when comparing. Have spoken to various agents in the area and they have said 1 and 2 beds are the most popular lets but some people prefer maisonnette as it has a garden. We are looking for professionals - am not too worried about it being let, am just trying to decide what would be a better investment. Thanks <em>edited by natashab on 29/03/2012</em>
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 26 March 2012 - 14:17
Sorry to hear of your experience. I have used Union Movers based on recommendations from two of my friends and then recommended them to another two friends who also used them and we all found their service to be excellent, they packed and unpacked everything for us and did it all in one day - we were very pleased with them and would def use them again. Again, am sorry you had a negative experience, moving is such a pain without the added pressure of not being happy with the movers.
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 March 2012 - 11:10
Thank you very much
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 March 2012 - 11:54
Hi there I need to send some baby stuff (pram, bouncer,carrycot etc) to the UK - approx 30kg I think. Can anyone recommend a company that will either go by weight or will come and have a look at the stuff and give me a quote? TIA
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 March 2012 - 13:15
Hi there For my husband's 29th i sent him on a treasure hunt to find his gift. I started with a helium baloon with a little rhyme to lead him to the next clue (i actually had small gifts with each clue until he got to his big gift, just silly little things like a box of matches, candle, cupcake, voucher for kisses etc) and i gave him 29 'gifts' but you could easily reduce this if you just want to use clues to find his gift. He loved it and made him feel really special. Clues were things like, 'well done, keep going, you're doing so well, the next place to look is where clothes lose their smell' (washing machine). If you have time to do it i think it is a nice personal idea. HTH
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 February 2012 - 11:35
Hi there I think it is an element of personality, DS was very chilled and independent whereas DD would only sleep if someone was carrying her! Are you breastfeeding? With my son he would cry and scream and we thought it was colic but he actually wasn't getting enough milk (I know people say youproduce enough for your baby but i didn't find this to be the case) so we started giving him formula which seemed to help. WIth my daughter she would scream and cry and was also quite windy so i changed the formula she was on and this seemed to help and swaddling her also helped. Not sure if these are the case with your son but just possibilities to consider. It may not feel like it right now but it really does get better. <em>edited by natashab on 19/02/2012</em>
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 January 2012 - 08:05
We went to Thailand but didn't like it! Alhough think maybe we went at the wrong time of year and to the wrong place so would give it another go but are there direct flights from here to anywhere in Thailand other than Bangkok? Green-ish whereabouts in Italy did you go - we have been to Italy pre kids and loved it but not sure about travelling around with the kids.
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 January 2012 - 13:06
Hi there My Magic Bullet blender isn't working and i was just wondering if anyone knew where they stock it in Dubai or where I can get it repaired? TIA
natashab
151
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 December 2011 - 15:10
The memorial service starts at 10am at Al Mas towers in JLT.
 
 
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

6 Annoying Things Expats Hate Hearing

6 Annoying Things Expats Hate Hearing