norak | ExpatWoman.com
 

norak

norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 28 February 2015 - 13:58
Dryer sheets have all but disappeared from the market -- don't know why. I, too, bought some Waitrose ones recently. If you find any, buy as many as you can. As for Bisquick, have purchased for a long while, but I last bought some from Choithram's. Lulu's might be a good for Bisquick as well. Good luck, and please report if you find the dryer sheets anywhere.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 February 2015 - 21:24
Been a long while but last I saw some was I think at Lulu - Barsha. Hope this helps.
norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 09 February 2015 - 00:23
100 Dhs to add Oman to the policy for "a year" is reasonable to me. I did not understand your original comment to say that she was at the border at the time and had no choice. What I find more interesting is that I have done well over 20 visa runs and have not once been asked about my insurance --- although I am covered.
norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 February 2015 - 22:15
Gosh, I remember year's ago having Oman added at no cost. We just called them up and picked up the rider. I'm sure it is not the case anymore. 90 Dhs seems a ridiculous amount for 7 days--just my opinion. I would call around.
norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 February 2015 - 20:16
Wickedangel, I have not been the the Blue Souq in a good while. Any chance there is a better quality one of the Amira. Can't wear a Shayla for the life of me - makes me crazy.
norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 February 2015 - 17:37
Sorry to sort of hijack this thread, but does anyone know where I can find a better quality Amira hijab here -- I have given up even the cheap Amira hijabs are becoming scarce. I prefer the two piece ones -- not the ones with what I can the "duck" front piece which is stitched to the top of the one piece ones. Anyone?
norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 07 February 2015 - 21:59
Now that you have brought this up, I don't recall that I have ever seen them here at all even around Valentine's Day -- not even Safestway. Plum, conversation hearts are the little hard candies in the shape of hearts that have little messages on them like "I love u", "miss u", et al. What I miss are those little cinnamon hearts that are a bit hot.
norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 04 February 2015 - 16:02
I have had glass done for me in Satwa many times in the past. There are few shops there that do glass.
norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 03 February 2015 - 21:01
I popped into the Wilton Decorating Center in the Diamond Gold Souq by the |Mall of the Emirates. They have a wider range of available colors I think. Don't know what part of town you live in, but if you are in the area, it seemed like a nice shop. I think it is owned by Travola, but I am not positive of this.
norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 31 January 2015 - 21:10
Untouchable, try the little Indian markets called Adil Trading. They carry a whole range of different flours and products, and that is where I generally get mine. There is one by the MOE, and there are others I think in Karama . If you look them up online, I am sure you will find one relatively close to wherever your location is. Good luck.
norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 13 January 2015 - 22:40
Another vote for Dragon Mart. It was dead easy to install -- I did it -- not my husband. All you need is a drill (with a ceramic bit if against tile), a screwdriver, and caulk. Really was easy, I promise.
norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 09 January 2015 - 23:53
Might be beneficial for you to break the bill amounts into its sub components - water, electric, housing, sewer etc. in order to make an informed answer. I don't have a pool, but I let my lawn die a few years ago because the cost to maintain was so much for so little. Hope this suggestion helps for those who can comment with pools.
norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 January 2015 - 18:10
The little experience I have had with these operations are they don't want to pay hardly anything no matter the condition or the quality. I would rather donate than accept the pittance they offered.
norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 January 2015 - 18:05
I usually do a visa run around the 4 to 6th day over the 30 day limit. The operator of the tour I take for the visa run recommends no more than 9 days over.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 08 January 2015 - 18:02
I haven't been for a number of years, but I will say that all locations or themes on the resort itself are pleasant and clean and give you access to the parks. You will find that you will not be spending much time in the rooms themselves as there is so much to do. If you want to spend more on a better room for your luggage to enjoy, by all means go ahead -- LOL. Enjoy yourselves and have a great time. (My grown kids still have their 'allowed" one stuffed animal from their trip when they were probably 6 to 8 years old.) I can't get them to get rid of them.
norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 07 January 2015 - 21:24
I would shred the beef and make a good beef broth to soak it in. From that, you can make roast beef sandwiches with horseradish sauce, etc., cheesesteak subs, etc. Another option is to make a beef potpie.
norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 07 January 2015 - 21:19
I used to purchase my kids magazine subscriptions to the game magazines, sports magazines, etc. It was a gift that would come each month and they would look at them forever. The posters in the both types of magazines we used to have blown up at DESCO and Ikea framed. Magazines are generally pricey month to month so it is a good value subscription wise, and they looked forward to them. I did the same with my DD with the teen magazines etc.
norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 07 January 2015 - 19:17
Yeah! Great new feature.
norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 05 January 2015 - 20:16
Safeway is your best bet. They used to carry it; I don't know if they still do though as I have looked in that isle lately. You might also try LuLu as well. You might also request Park and Shop to bring it in as they have a "suggestion" board for people to post their wants. Hope this helps.
norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 03 January 2015 - 19:25
Wear stretchy waist pants --- allows for expansion. Other than that, I got nothing! LOL Enjoy
norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 02 January 2015 - 22:32
In that case ....... never mind -- LOL.
norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 02 January 2015 - 20:48
Sorry Lovebob, but I think the stores are relatively new. I know that I have not even had a chance to get into the furniture stores there in Barsha. Maybe when people get back to normal routine people will pop online. I, myself, thought today was Saturday and set my alarm last night --- only to discover it was Friday. LOL.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 December 2014 - 15:19
You can find the canned bisquits at a number of places such as Spinneys, Choithram's, Safeway, and even Park and Shop. The normal size cans are easiest to find, but the Grand's is very much hit or miss. As the other responder mentioned, Safeway may be your best bet for the Grands. By the way, they are not a frozen product and in the dairy cases. If they become frozen, they are no good. <em>edited by norak on 27/12/2014</em>
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 23 December 2014 - 17:08
You can't go wrong either way. I'm American, but Canada is a wonderful place too.
norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 23 December 2014 - 17:05
I saw some thawed ones in the meat case at Choithram's at the Green's last night. Don't know if they were stuffed, but looked ready to cook. I believe they were about 4 kg and the price I noticed was about 284 dhs. Hope this helps.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 22 December 2014 - 19:51
Butterball no longer sells here as they no longer do "halal" birds. I've had no problem with Norbert either. I saw some raw turkeys (around 3.5 kg) in Choithram's just a bit ago in the meat case -- don't know if they were stuffed, but the price was around 285 Dhs.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 21 December 2014 - 23:30
Agree with Texas Roadhouse.
norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 21 December 2014 - 21:16
I think that when it comes to the metro, ACE is in no-man's land. I think the closest is the one for First Gulf Bank which is a fair distance towards the MOE, and the other is close to Al Habtoor which is a fair distance in the opposite direction and not doable by foot. Best to look up though - I could be wrong.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 21 December 2014 - 14:59
My son told me the tickets sold out within a few hours after going on sale. He wanted them also. I know the radio is giving some away - good luck with that.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 21 December 2014 - 14:43
I thought Wafi was supposed to be the place to be at Xmas. I've not been myself, but I'm sure others will be able to add to your recommendations.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 December 2014 - 19:38
As the former owner of a game shop, I highly recommend that you go to the Computer Plaza in Bur Dubai (close to Ramada/Spinneys). There are many shops there that deal with gamers and, it is even better if you have an idea of what type of specifications you want - graphic's card, etc. They can recommend as well if you don't know yourself. You can find recommendations on line as well for game specifications-better graphic cards etc. Shop around a bit there - compare prices from shop to shop. They can put together a computer to your specifications within a day or two (unless they are swamped with xmas). On top of that, the prices are pretty competitive. My only "warning" is make sure you tell them you want genuine chips, boards, etc. and, make sure you get a separate graphic's card as opposed to one integrated into the motherboard. When it comes to gaming, the graphic's card is one of the most important things. Oh, and another thing, If possible, I highly recommend gaming computers that are desk top as opposed to lap top. When gaming, the heat generated from the graphics is the number one problem and laptops are notorious to overheat -- even with the new fangled devices out there that are supposed to keep them cool. Make sure it is well ventilated and a strong fan. Nothing ruins a gaming computer quicker than the heat. I hope this helps. :cool: <em>edited by norak on 19/12/2014</em>
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 December 2014 - 20:14
I've seen peanut oil on occasion at Choithram's and I think Safeway. If you do it, please let us know how it turns out. I keep hearing about deep fried turkeys, but I don't know anyone who has done one (even from home). By the way, peanut oil is not cheap, so that will be an a very expensive turkey.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 December 2014 - 13:25
I am on my second Pajero. The first one was a 4 cylinder, and the newest (LOL) one (2008) is a 6 cylinder. I do prefer the 6 cylinder. Other than regular maintenance, it still runs well and looks great. The air conditioning system is very good. I had seriously looked at the Land Cruisers and other similar when replacing the first Pajero but, at the end, went for another Pajero. I never really paid attention to how many miles per gallon in a very long time, but I can tell you that it takes approximately 130 Dhs. to fill up an empty tank. Hope this helps.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 15 December 2014 - 16:59
Bingo, I gave it a try a month or so ago but it did not work for me but, in all honesty, did not give it a real go. My wart is about the size of a small pea, and it was very hard to keep the cider pad in place and dry (dishes, bath, et al.). I think it could have had a shot if I could have kept it in place as it did tingle and became irritated after a short while at the beginning. Give it a go if yours is in a more "convenient" place. Since we are speaking of warts -- has anyone had a wart that is smooth all over -- not spikey or irregular. I am assuming it is a wart as I have had them in the past --- but not like this type.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 15 December 2014 - 13:51
I was a little reluctant to answer as well but, prior to buying our villa, we moved at least 4 times over a 11 year period. I have never had to repaint my apartment, and I have always gotten my deposit back in full. I remember one company tried to find a way to keep the deposit but, in the end, I received it back in full. I do also recall at least one of our leases saying we had to repaint as part of the standard language. OP, I am glad it worked out for you.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 15 December 2014 - 13:51
I was a little reluctant to answer as well but, prior to buying our villa, we moved at least 4 times over a 11 year period. I have never had to repaint my apartment, and I have always gotten my deposit back in full. I remember one company tried to find a way to keep the deposit but, in the end, I received it back in full. I do also recall at least one of our leases saying we had to repaint as part of the standard language. OP, I am glad it worked out for you.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 07 December 2014 - 12:09
As other Springs owners may know, I have two windows for the bathrooms which are the type that unlatch from the top and open downwards/backwards but stop after only opening about 7-8 inches at the top. Has anyone been able to figure out how to completely open them without taking them apart. I can't get a good clean on them, and it is driving me crazy. The one downstairs I could get to but since the screen is down, I don't want to mess the screen up trying to force it from outside. Anyone else have this problem or know if there is some magic to these windows. Thanks.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 December 2014 - 20:06
I always take mine to the ARTE Craft fairs they have at Times Square or Festival City. There is a large used book sale there where the proceeds benefit animals (not sure of name). They gladly receive donated books, and I love buying them. There may be one this weekend.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 30 November 2014 - 23:04
Saw some a park and shop -- didn't look at price though. Sorry.
norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 30 November 2014 - 22:55
I saw something similar at Home Center awhile back. It was not that big though, it was more like a bench seat.
norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 28 November 2014 - 20:31
Apricot, how did your pumpkin pie turn out. Just took mine from the oven. Turkey tomorrow for me.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 November 2014 - 16:36
My memories -- from someone who has poor memory - LOL. I arrived in early 1993 or 94. We lived in Diera by Al Ghurair Center until our apartment was ready. The two main places to grocery shop was either a small Spinneys there in Diera or a big trip over to the Co-Op there in Karama --- that was my adventure for the week. The Co-Op is still there, of course, it seems so small now but it was great then. Also, when you bought groceries there, you paid for things individually -- like meat was paid for at the meat counter; then bread at the bread counter, and veggies at the veggie counter, etc. Fortunately, all the real basics were here at the time, but it did make you have to cook and bake just about everything from scratch. We did most of our vegetables at the vegetable market in Diera every couple of weeks, and I remember so vividly buying boxes of melons, potatoes and cucumbers and tomatoes etc. for practically nothing! If you wanted parsely or mint, they'd stuff a plastic grocery bag full (heaving) for 50 fils. Now, you can barely get a few sprigs for a dirham. Humour fish was plentiful and cheap from the fish market. I remember the first first Dubai Shopping Fest. It was held mostly in Diera on Al Rigga Road or by the Creek where there were so many little stalls of goods, foods, lights, etc. on the sidewalks along the whole road. There were so many people out walking, eating, shopping and having fun. We'd usually spend some time at Safa Park or the Corniche in Diera on the weekends. When the Creekside Park was built and newly opened, I remember it being so baren -- the trees where little sprouts waiting to grow. I remember once there was a "sale" advertised in the paper for a shop in Bur Dubai just before the tunnel. Let me tell you, it felt like the entire city turned out for this shop and it was a little shop (like Karama size), and it stopped traffic. Cars stopped in the middle of the street to let the women in Abaya's sworm to the place buying everything and anything and, I remember, when we finally got in, there was nothing left. I had never seen anything like it -- it was so surreal. Driving down the new SZR from the Diera bridge there was really only the Trade Center on the horizon. Past that, there was those large apartments on the left, and Ramada Inn on the right. Then nothing until you got to the Defense R/A -- or the Safeway Exit now -- where there were those tall apartment complexes on each corner. Then nothing again until Safa park -- and certainly not much of anything past that. Safa Park was packed just about any day of the week, but the weekends were so busy. On Al Wasl Road, there was not much past Safa Park as well. I once visited a friend who lived all the way down at the end (almost to the Police College), and we had this great road (Wasl Rd), but there was nothing but sand on either side until we got to my friend's house. There were just three houses there next to the road all by themselves going towards the Beach Road and not much else. Oh, another thing I remember was any shops or apartments or places hardly had any asphalt or brick finishing around them. We had to constantly walk through sand to get to anything -- parking as well was always in sand. I just remember feeling like I was certainly in a foreign country and everything was so new and different -- yet had a bit of home by the ability to buy some western products. One thing I learned so long ago that I practice to this day -- do not hesitate to buy something if you see it because it is never there when you go back. Of course, it is no where near as bad now as it was then, but I remember so many times "hesitating" to buy something -- large or small, only to go back and it would be gone. This applied to groceries, furniture, nic-naks, etc. Oh, and Karama was the place to buy some real bargains. It is nothing like it used to be - sadly. And animals of all sorts were everywhere -- not unusual to see goats, chickens, camels, sheep roaming around on the roads. <em>edited by norak on 27/11/2014</em>
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 26 November 2014 - 17:35
Lezbell, honestly the easiest way to do a visa run is to book through a place like Go Tours. Tomorrow I am doing another visa run, and I have found it less stressful than driving myself. Cost if you book online is 150 plus the 50 Oman visa. They pick up from Dubai Marina Mall and drop off there as well as other locations. They apparently do a number of them a day, so you can pick the time that works for you -- it usually takes about 3 1/2 hours round trip. They walk you though the procedure, and it's very easy. I bring along a book and a bottle of water, and it's done.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 22 November 2014 - 16:31
Just an update for anyone who might be interested, found some sort of ordinary fans at DG Sharaf for 99 Dhs but they had to bring them from the back. I had a choice of two different brands, same size, same price, but one had the remote --- who knew fans needed a remote - LOL. Thanks ladies for the suggestions.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 22 November 2014 - 14:25
I was surprised too -- although people wanted to direct me to heaters now when I mentioned fans -- but anyway, never thought to look online. I am heading to DG now as it is only my way to another appointment, so if that does not work out, I will go the online route. Anything around 100 Dhs seems somewhat reasonable to me at this time of the year. Thanks for that! <em>edited by norak on 22/11/2014</em>
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 01 November 2014 - 02:17
Don't know about that DT, but, honestly, find their logging in process tedious. No disrespect to the EW crew -- just saying.
norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 31 October 2014 - 14:39
Clare, I feel your pain, as I sort of have the same problem. I live in the Springs and fortunately or unfortunately I have a drain right in front of my villa. All the run off from homes up from me who constantly wash their cars, wash their concrete car ports all make its way to my drain. But, here is the kicker, right before the drain, the leveling is not there, so once the weigt of the flow dissipates, the water just sits there just inches from the drain. I have an almost daily curb with water and debris just sitting there just short of the drain. This has led to me having a permanently discolored brickwork to my carport because my tires are always wet when trying to enter or leave my house. I saw this problem way back when we did the walk through and had it on our snag list. Like so many other things, and believe me there were many, no one cared no matter who I called. Sure, they would send people out, but it was always a matter of whose job it was to do it. Here I am almost 10 years here now, and I still have the same problem. Not to be flippant, but good luck with that. I share your frustration.
norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 29 October 2014 - 20:29
I vote for Coco's for the cake as well. Won't go wrong.
norak
711
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EW GURU
Latest post on 29 October 2014 - 20:28
Thanks so much everyone. Will seek out the chocolate and pretzels, but no luck for the dryer sheets I guess. Lulee, don't mind at all. I saw it awhile back but can't remember where. I'll give it some thought and see if I can prod my domant brain. <em>edited by norak on 29/10/2014</em>
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 29 October 2014 - 15:14
Been on the lookout for quite some time for dyer sheets, the Snyders flavored pretzels, and now the chocolate covered raisins. Anyone seen any of these things recently?
 
 
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