norak | ExpatWoman.com
 

norak

norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 29 June 2012 - 12:55
In my personal opinion, Pepsi is much sweeter tasting to me than Coke. If you are a Coke person, you know the difference. I believe the reason that certain regions are more Pepsi prone is because they got into the markets first and that is what they were introduced to first. I don't know this for fact, but I think I read this somewhere a long time ago. I agree with Gorobattie in that I drink way more than is probably good for me. I read that you would have to drink 13,000 Cokes to feel the effects. Fortunately, I am just about 12,999 and safe! Speaking of Coke, I'm off to open one right now. Cheers.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 28 June 2012 - 23:06
I always suggest magazine subscriptions. My daughter loved them.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 28 June 2012 - 23:05
Almost had a heart attack when I read this thread. As a hard core coca cola addict and a Muslim, I had visions of a fatwa coming banning all coke. This is really my only vice. Absolutely there is a difference between coke and pepsi - if they don't serve Coke, its water or something else for me!
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 25 June 2012 - 20:18
I had this happen to me a few months ago. I'd had my hotmail account for at least 15+ years which contained all my saved email addresses etc., and did not want to lose it. I was able to recover the account by following the steps they outline. They will ask you certain questions that you might have answered for security reasons awhile back, but also I seem to remember they ask you if you can identify some fairly recent emails from memory and which I was able to do. Once you get the account back you must, of course, make a new password. I heard on the radio recently that a phrase is better for your password because it much harder to break. Fortunately, my email account probably bored them to tears and no harm was done. Good luck.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 24 June 2012 - 19:54
Don't know about "official" lolly sticks, but I can tell you that I noticed today that the Coffee Bean & Tea cafe at MOE (and other locations) have very long wooden (and flat) stir sticks which could be cut in half and used. I am in no way suggesting you "steal" them, but I am sure if you don't need too many that they would sell some to you for a reasonable sum. Just a thought; hope this helps.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 24 June 2012 - 17:19
It just so happens that I have just returned from seeing a dentist who was recommended on here last week. My daughter had broken a tooth, and I needed to get her seen quickly last week. She ended up needing a root canal, and we just returned a few minutes ago. We saw a dentist (lady) by the name of Tanweer Kathawala of Glow Medical & Dental Center which is over by the American University in the Arenco Building. I can't say how much she charges for cleaning, but I (and daughter) were very happy with their services and thought the price was comparable and, actually, cheaper than our regular dentist. We have to go back Wednesday to put a filling in now that the root canal is done. I've seen a number of dentists from all sorts of backgrounds over the years here, so I feel comfortable recommending her. Her card says she is US trained and her English was great. Oh, and they have inside parking (free). Hope this helps. <em>edited by norak on 24/06/2012</em>
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 24 June 2012 - 17:12
jamhind: I live in a villa in the Springs -- so no apartment. Like the other person replied, I have to wash my sheers a few times a year.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 24 June 2012 - 14:17
Maybe if your high up -- but I just threw another pair of my white sheers into the washer -last night - so gray. And, I don't open my window much except in cooler weather. I'm sorry, but I would never put white curtains up.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 23 June 2012 - 23:02
I don't know if this will help, but I recently ran into an old friend of mine who started an online t-shirt printing business here in Dubai. I picked up his card, and he has a website as well. His company is Ink Mash, and his number is 04-4486268. Website is www.inkmash.com. Maybe he can help.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 23 June 2012 - 17:04
I agree with dibdab, I could not find anything as well. I gave up and went and bought some fabric, however, found out after I bought fabric that the tailor's are all booked up with holidays/Ramadan approaching. Dream Girls told me at least one month for the few simple pieces I wanted. I did find another tailor though who was able to get them for me in a reasonable time. I like Prima Moda at MOE - cattycorner from Debenam's and across from Harvey Nichols - Ground Floor. Even though I think the are for "larger sizes", they are cut well and more form fitting. You would certainly be able to fit their smaller/est sizes.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 June 2012 - 15:47
When my son was around that age, he loved that I got him magazine subscriptions. He like the games and sports mags and, of course, they were fairly expensive to buy on a monthly basis. It's a gift that keeps on giving all year!
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 June 2012 - 16:47
I don't know if you would be interested, but there is a little kiosk in the same mall there as Cara's at the Diamond and Gold Souk who do Moisanite stones which look very much like diamonds and, supposedly, better than the cubic zarconia because they will not yellow over time etc. Anyone, I needed to replace a tiny diamond on my band which estimates for real diamonds came to a little over l,000 dhs., and I ended up replacing it with this Masonite for 300 Dhs. which included the tiny bit of gold to keep the stone in. I must say I'm happy with it, and you could not tell its a diamond. <em>edited by norak on 10/06/2012</em>
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 09 June 2012 - 11:33
FYI, my son once ordered something on line and had mistakenly placed our villa address down on the delivery address as opposed to PO Box. I was just in the process of trying to figure out where to start myself, when a knock came to my door from a courier who delivered it and charged us I think 30 Dhs. We were shocked but happy. I don't know if this will happen for you, but it certainly relieved the headache as I had already been to the post office to inquire as to what will happen in this situation. Funny enough, there was a lady right behind me wanting the same info for the same situation. Hope this helps a bit.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 08 June 2012 - 11:14
You can get Ponstan over the counter here and my daughter has used Profinid tablets fairly regularly.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 06 June 2012 - 19:40
Hey Safiya, so good to hear its you. Wow, a new baby on the way, alhumdu allah. How is your mother. I think of you guys often. My phone was lost months ago and I lost all of contact numbers. Please email me if you get a chance and if you still have my email.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 06 June 2012 - 14:01
There is a second hand watch shop on beach road in the mall that has Burger King/Automatic frontage. They sell used Rolex's et al. It's on the first floor and the first shop on your left if you come in the side entrace from the parking lot. Good luck.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 05 June 2012 - 08:19
ShellFC, I will try to call them but won't hold my breath. The cracks came as a result of an underwater pipe break which was under the the sidewalk. At the time, Emaar said it was DEWA's responsibility and DEWA said it was Emaar's responsibility. I went round and round and round and round and round and round and round and round --- you get the picture. Anyway, I'll see if I have enough energy to start this fight again. Thanks.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 June 2012 - 17:55
So sorry, but I don't understand what number you are asking for?
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 June 2012 - 17:53
Thanks ladies. I was not sure if you could do it at the Dubai "Court's" building there next to Tajeel in Barsha. Will head there tomorrow. Thanks again.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 June 2012 - 16:27
Just heard an ad on the radio a couple of hours ago for a shop called big ben's costume shop. I think they are in that little mall at the corner of Iranian Hospital Road and Al Diyafa Street. The one that has the newish Brands for Less.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 June 2012 - 14:25
I, too, make mine from scratch but, if push comes to shove, I do like the Ragu Chunky made with Sundried Tomatoes and Sweet Basil. It's not that chunky really. Just that one - others are horrible.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 June 2012 - 10:18
Just to add my two cents, one of the things I remember about living in an apartment the most with small children was trying to get the groceries or shopping upstairs. Uhh! Car to lobby with children and bags. Lobby to elevator with children and bags. Elevator to apartment door with children and bags. Keys with children and bags. And that is only small shopping never mind extra trips back out to car! Don't miss it for one minute. Just thinking about it makes me shutter.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 May 2012 - 13:39
One of my closest friends (American) moved there about 2 years ago after being here for years. For the most part, she likes it very much and has settled well. I went and visted her for the day a few months back and, although it is not as "big" as Dubai, it was fairly modern, had many of the stores we have here, etc. The only thing is that she found some routine things to be very expensive compared to Dubai such as furniture, abayas, fabrics, etc. When she comes to Dubai, she stocks up on some things much like we do when we go home. That said, she likes it well enough. We popped into the grocery and found many things -- some of which is not available here.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 23 May 2012 - 19:45
You can find them at Park and Shop and Safestway too. They are my preferred nut in anything --- they are just too expensive to use all the time. I always bring a big bag back with me when I go home.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 23 May 2012 - 06:56
Agree with Sandy Dogg -- you are the one joining traffic and must wait. That said, I try to give when when I can but it is not always possible. Always better to be safe than sorry here.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 May 2012 - 15:40
My husband is promising me one very soon -- get whatever color you want. My plan would be to have it for a long, long time. Kitchens and trends will change. Lucky you.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 16 May 2012 - 15:47
I'm a philly fan all the way, but when I bake I usually use Kiri with good success. I don't care much for it to eat it straight on crackers or bagels. Kiri don't really taste bad, but it's just not Philly. That said, I know that there is a Crystal (8 oz) brand at Safestway that comes like the bar Philly. I've made many a cheesecakes, pound cakes, and cookies with Kiri and they have turned out well.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 May 2012 - 19:36
I've read that same headline so many times before. I am only hopeful. Insha allah. Those poor animals surely deserve it.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 07 May 2012 - 00:49
Redlesley, I just recently did the same. I contacted Feline Friends on their Facebook page. Someone just got back to me to inform me that they will be having a sale this Friday at the Times Square. It was suggested I take them then for drop off.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 30 April 2012 - 20:59
I have taken my tv's in the past to places in Karama. I can't say exactly name or streets, but if you know where the Mostawi (sp) carpet/drapery place is off the main road, the road that this (Mostawi) road "T's| into and then turn right -- there are couple of places there which I have had great help with - cost and honesty. I'm sorry I cannot be any clearer on directions.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 26 April 2012 - 06:57
IJust want to back up Spongemonkey, I have had the bank do the same to me a couple of times because of signatures not matching. We opened our account almost 20 years ago, and they decided they didn't like my signature anymore. It was very frustrating and I, too, had to have a new signature card made.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 21 April 2012 - 01:10
Om el banat: She did not say she wanted quality shoes -- just needs shoes that will fit - LOL. When you are looking for a size ll here - you take what you can get.;)
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 April 2012 - 22:59
Krissi, thanks so much. I'll put them in the car and, the next time I am around the area, I'll pop in and see if they will take them. Thank you again.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 April 2012 - 14:07
Just an update ladies, I was able to turn my old batteries into an Adnoc petrol station. I just happened to be at one for gas and asked. I was able to turn in an older printer and about 6 old mobiles into Sharif as well. Had I known about Plug Ins, a voucher would have been nice. On a side note, I have a bunch of books for donation as well. Out of about 35 books, the used book store only tool 5 or 6. Anyone know of any book sales coming up?
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 April 2012 - 14:07
Just an update ladies, I was able to turn my old batteries into an Adnoc petrol station. I just happened to be at one for gas and asked. I was able to turn in an older printer and about 6 old mobiles into Sharif as well. Had I known about Plug Ins, a voucher would have been nice. On a side note, I have a bunch of books for donation as well. Out of about 35 books, the used book store only tool 5 or 6. Anyone know of any book sales coming up?
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 April 2012 - 09:44
Have you tried Brands for Less or Payless?
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 April 2012 - 23:38
Vixen, I think your husband can sponser him so long as he is in school full time. What we did is register him for University and then get a letter from them saying he is enrolled for the term (you may even have to pay some or most of it). That letter then gets taken to the immigration where you will pay a deposit (returnable) of around 5,000 Dhs. His visa will be for one year -- renewable each year so long as he stays in school. Your timing is a bit off so because of the school terms etc. It might be beneficial to do the visa run until you travel and then make arrangements when you get back and he gets enrolled -- but at least get paperwork at a university started. I hope this helps. It is a bit annoying as each year he has to go for a medical checkup (bloodwork), photos, and the renewal pain, but you need the letter from university and deposit to get it done. An alternative is to have the university sponser him -- again so long as he is a full time student etc. Hope this helps. My son will be be finishing university this spring -- then he truly has no choice but get job for visa, continue a master's degree, or do the visa runs. Such a headache for someone who has been here since he was 4 years old.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 April 2012 - 14:19
Well, if it rains, you are welcome. I washed the car this morning. It always happens.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 April 2012 - 09:22
Tephi, I don't think it matters matters as to where the Notary is from. That said, the embassy does the notary by filling out the the usually "predesigned" form, signs, stamps and embosses. The local notary here will affiix a rather large sticker (9cm x 15 cm) on the backside of the document which is printed in Arabic, signed etc. There is also a small square stamp affixed which shows the date and clearly says Notary Public on it. This small square stamp is also stamped on each page. Downside, you need to take a number and wait . So, in my opinion, I would think that either place will serve you no matter where the document is intended for. I just know the Embassy is quite expensive and the Dubai Court's only charged 60 dhs per document. (I was a Notary for years.) I hope this helps.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 April 2012 - 00:01
If you are looking for a Notary like used in the States, it will be difficult as usually Notaries are Notaries for their states only. That said, the American Embassy has a notary public service which is costly for what it is but at least is applicable to any state. The UAE does have notaries over at the Courts in Barsha. I have never taken a prepared document (like from the States) directly there, but I have had POA's drawn up here which we had notorized there.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 15 April 2012 - 18:57
I bought a package of 50 from Safeway a year or so ago just to have them on hand. They are so useful. I have not looked lately, but I am sure if you go you may find them.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 15 April 2012 - 12:36
I don't know if this will help, but there is a Singer (sewing machine) dealer over by Abu Hail. They just might be able to help you track one down. Sorry, don't have number but do know location if you need further directions. Hope this helps.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 April 2012 - 22:11
My friends have always appreciated the "alladin lanterns", the fake pasmina's and, of course, dates.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 April 2012 - 22:08
There have been many attemtps by the public to push Dubai to do something about the Zoo. From what I have gathered over the years, the Zoo people themselves are so overwhelmed with the increasing number of animals they have taken in with no where to put them. The people actually in charge of the day to day zoo facilities are known to be doing their absolute best with what they have to work with. The only time we ever hear from anyone who has has the ability to make it happen is when they are announcing for the upteenth time about a new plan that never comes to fruition. I can remember at least 3 or 4 major announcements over the years with pictures and maps etc -- not one has actually happened -- sadly.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 April 2012 - 15:26
Have look at "Takiwall.com". They are locally based wall sticker company and, apparently, they do customized stuff. I think you can just tell them what you want it to say, how big you want it, and they will quote you a price. I have bought stuff from them. Hope this helps.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 April 2012 - 11:46
Welcome Bubby. Hang on; it's going to be a bumpy ride!
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 09 April 2012 - 21:46
Of course it depends upon how much you want to spend, but I would suggest a really nice brief case (either male or female), or a good piece of jewelry which will then have the memory of who and why attached to it.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 06 April 2012 - 23:34
I remember being paid $4 for notorization. My, how times have changed -- or rather they are overcharging for the service!
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 05 April 2012 - 14:59
So loved that. That young man was shaking so incrediby. Thanks for sharing.
norak
711
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 April 2012 - 00:49
No problem. My mother used to put it on fried chicken right after it comes out of the frier. Just say when!
 
 
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