NorthernLights | ExpatWoman.com
 

NorthernLights

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Latest post on 28 April 2015 - 11:38
Hi GE, I remembered reading a NYT article on this buying property in Brittany last autumn, and just found it. Here's the [url=http://www.nytimes.com/2014/09/25/greathomesanddestinations/real-estate-in-brittany.html?_r=0 '>link[/url'> If you decide to buy the manor in the photo, I'll be one of your first clients! ;) Not to sound at all patronising, but have you travelled throughout Brittany, or in a certain area to help narrow down your search? Mr NL and I plan to buy a forever home in Spain. We're taking our upcoming holiday to drive though the region we've 'almost' agreed on, looking for the perfect-for-us village. He's Spanish (and I'm not) so I'm hopeful Mr NL can navigate us more easily through the cultural and legal hijinks ahead. Best of luck! NL
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Latest post on 28 April 2015 - 11:16
Hi ladies, thanks for your feedback. We've taken it into account and will be removing the thumbs down option in due course. Warm regards EW Admin Many thanks, EW Admin. A positive move forward for our forum. Thumbs up! ;)
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Latest post on 11 April 2015 - 21:25
Hi SueB, This might not be too helpful but can you take the dried hibiscus flowers used for tea, and grind them with a mortar & pestle? If so, there is plenty in the spice souk! Cheers, NL
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Latest post on 03 April 2015 - 17:38
Cibacibute, it sounds like your son has an amazing mum! Here's a [url=http://littlefoureyes.com/books-for-kids/'>link[/url'> to story books for young children who wear glasses. It seems you can order most from Amazon. I'm also far-sighted, had a strabismus . . . and wore glasses from the age of two! I still have some of the old story books my parents read me, and that had a main character wearing glasses. The books are back home or I would have lent them to you. Good luck with everything :) <em>edited by NorthernLights on 03/04/2015</em>
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Latest post on 03 April 2015 - 17:24
Saw some in Waitrose (Dubai Mall) last week . . . might be gone now . . .
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Latest post on 06 March 2015 - 12:49
Thiptara - Thai at Palace Hotel is suppose to be fantastic! Get a table out side and look at the Burj Khalifa 1000x yes! Fantastic Thai food, ambience and service. We recently dined there for a special occasion. Not inexpensive . . . but 28 years is something to celebrate. Ring early to request one of the fountain view seats. Congratulations!
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Latest post on 05 March 2015 - 23:01
:clock: :evil: No. Really. You can trust me. Honestly. Besides, as Mr NorthernLights so lovingly reminded me, Lesley Stowe doesn't fit into my marathon training plan . . . at least, not until the Autumn when carbo-loading will absolutely be justified. Enjoy for me!
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Latest post on 05 March 2015 - 22:34
Whaaaaaat??! Fantastic. I'll be there when the doors open tomorrow! (will try to leave a few behind;) )
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Latest post on 05 March 2015 - 21:56
Oh, dear! I think that in such a fast-paced, digital world, especially out here, traveller's cheques have become a thing of the past. Are they Amex? You could try ringing the local office of the issuer, look at their website, see if this map is any help [url=http://www.aetclocator.com/TCLocator/maps.do?scountry=AE&scity=dubai'>link[/url'> Good luck!
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Latest post on 05 March 2015 - 19:28
Have to use Flydubai for one of the neighbouring countries I travel into, and almost always with an economy seat. Flew with a business seat twice because of a combined EK ticket, which was less expensive than purchasing a separate Flydubai economy ticket, and another EK business one (go figure!). Tip: I always pay USD 28 for the first row in Economy. Seat size is the same but there is lots of leg room and no one if front of you except for a half-wall separator from business (no curtain). It always feels like I'm in premium economy - haha. My two business seats trips were also nice, with comfortable seats, and you even disembark first onto your own business bus (not bad for a 'low cost carrier'). . . which brings me to the most irritating part of travelling with Flydubai: Terminal 2. If you're connecting with EK or any other airline, it can take a minimum of 45-60 mins just to reach T1/T3/Concourse A, especially if in economy. Sigh!
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Latest post on 05 March 2015 - 19:07
Sadly, no :( The Fig & Olive are my favourites!! Yum! I always bring a supply back, too. I'll try and let you know the next time I travel to Vancouver but that likely won't be until the late autumn; I live a short walk from her flagship shop. It seems she's really expanded, and the crisps can be found in a lot of posh delis including Whole Foods. Waitrose carried a 'similar' cracker at Christmas but I haven't seen them since, and can't recall the name ... definitely not as memorable as the Raincoast Crisps. Ack! Now I'm going to be craving these all weekend (and beyond) . . .
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Latest post on 13 February 2015 - 15:38
Thanks for being a rescue angel, SueB! A couple of years ago, I was away for six-weeks and my beloved maus did a runner. Our babysitting friends were reluctant to tell me knowing that I would have panicked, and cancelled my trip. Luckily, he was spotted in a nearby compound, returned safely home after 2-weeks, and I was none-the-wiser until he returned. A long story to say that there's a possibility your foundling's humans are away, and maybe don't know she's missing, yet. Is it possible to foster her a little while longer before putting her up for permanent adoption? And/or putting up her photo on the Bin Kitty Collective?[url=https://www.facebook.com/groups/188028987947593/photos/'>link[/url'> Just a thought. In any case, you are doing a wonderful thing and she's very lucky to have found such a caring temp home. :)
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Latest post on 09 February 2015 - 15:40
clumping is much better - if you can get the organic cat litter it's really great. I have trod on the crystals and it's really painful - i dread to think what it does to kitties paws. Totally agree, Izzy! It's like stepping on Lego in the middle of the night. But my darling rescue was trained on the crystals (my fault), and as he's as stubborn and ****-retentive ;) as his human. He turns up his proverbial nose at the lovely and oh-so-expensive organic stuff. Believe me, I've tried. And when he has a new box? Absolute kitty delight! He's crazy about the crystals. They're just not so easy to find, which is why I stock up when possible.
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Latest post on 09 February 2015 - 00:57
I've just started using one, and I'm quite happy so far. I'm running two marathons this year - Vancouver in May, and NY in November - and the data is really helpful for analysing these shorter-term and long-range training goals. Here is a link that provides a thorough review, which would match my experiences to-date [url=http://www.pcadvisor.co.uk/reviews/wearable-tech/3585633/fitbit-charge-hr-review/'>link[/url'>. The negative: definitely not the most fashionable piece of plastic to wear 24/7.
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Latest post on 09 February 2015 - 00:42
Try Spinney's. If there is none on the shelves, ask if they have any in the back (often they do). Also, the management has been good at letting me know when it will arrive next, and I've been able to have a crate/carton put aside for me.
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Latest post on 09 February 2015 - 00:38
I've worked in Jeddah and - although a rebel at heart - wouldn't consider stepping out into public (airport, shopping, restaurants, walking, etc.) without both an abaya and hijab (scarf version). The silk versions are lovely, as they are so light and breathe even when you're gasping for breath in the middle of KSA's not-so-delightful summers! Once inside your destination, you can judge how comfortable you'd feel removing the scarf. Depending on their moods, and how brazen you're being with *gasp* showing your ankles and arms, nevermind an uncovered head, the local authorities who patrol the souks and malls can be rather nasty, especially if you're unaccompanied or alone ... but that's just been my experience and it seems that other posters have enjoyed more positive reactions, which is great.
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Latest post on 23 January 2015 - 17:07
I'm vehicle illiterate (especially the mechanics) but can relate firsthand that the Mercedes GL series is a lovely ride. Great in the city, uber comfortable on the highway, and even a powerful and posh off-roading vehicle. The resale/trade-in value is great but . . . I'd suggest for you to compare service costs. The Mercedes parts and regular service are definitely not inexpensive! Yike$
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Latest post on 21 January 2015 - 15:35
You can also order a Paderno Spiralizer from Raw Bites. Takes about 3-days for delivery... http://raw-bites.ae/product-category/spiralizer-dubai/ Izzy, your recipe should be shared :)
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Latest post on 21 January 2015 - 15:06
Thanks a lot, MKZ and Tartiflette. I shall ring both and see who can fit me in. Also super grateful for the tip on Toni&Guy, which I had been considering but couldn't find a contact number. Phew! Cheers, NL :)
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Latest post on 17 January 2015 - 10:33
I openly admit to a carpet addiction, and Mr NL is co-dependent! We've spent a lot of time in the neighbouring countries across the Gulf, and here, and have amassed a fair collection of incredible, original pieces. That being said, the most important to me when looking at carpets is: do I l really love it? To me, carpets are art - they're subject to personal taste. What style and design I like, will probably differ from yours. Lolacat said it best: research, research, research. I've spent untold hours sitting with carpet sellers, drinking endless cups of tea, and having carpet after carpet shown to me, and explained its qualities. I've also made it very clear up front that I am likely not buying today or tomorrow or even next month but that I'm trying to learn more about what goes into making the carpet what it is whilst waiting to find one that 'speaks to me' (unfortunately, it usually says "buy me, you need me". Sigh!). There are many, many books and websites that will hep your research, especially if you don't have the time to sit with the sellers. Also, finding one or two sellers that carry carpets you like, and who you can build a relationship of sorts with, is helpful. As for prices ... oooffff. Some carpets, I've felt like I've somehow stolen whilst others were very very costly. But I've never paid more than I believed the carpet was worth to me, and the seller has never sold for less than what would mean forgoing a profit for him. I guess what I'm trying to say is, buy a carpet for you because it is a piece that will remind you of your time here, and pay what you feel comfortable with. The research will help you understand the differences in regions, styles, and quality, and what a reasonable price should be. Your budget and style preference will determine the rest. Ohhh ... and bringing a friend with knowledge of carpets is always a good thing! I travel a lot but am always up for a bit of carpet shopping and bartering ... ;)
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Latest post on 06 January 2015 - 20:18
I have been given the impression, get on these planes - but leave your EK BA QA experiences at home and you will be fine! They are not in the big leagues for a reason I second, third and fourth pollydxb1's caveats! Point A to B in economy is tolerable. Fares are okay but service and cabin cleanliness are hit and miss, and business seats are not worth upgrading yourself from economy ones (I'd attach the photo of 'champagne' served in a paper cup, if I could)... although the Business Lounge in Istanbul is really fantabulous.
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Latest post on 28 December 2014 - 10:23
Thanks a lot, Di and Rose! We found something at Car Fare - much appreciated. Happy Holidays, NL :)
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Latest post on 08 December 2014 - 14:38
Oooohh, lucky DH! So much fun ahead. I suggest adding: 1. Polarizer filter - reduces glare; improves colour saturation; sharper images, etc. 2. Portable power pack - GoPro 4 battery life is about 1.5 hours, and a pack will quickly recharge whilst out shooting for up to 5+hrs Optionals: 3. If he wants to take it diving, a head-strap + QuickClip 4. For off-road/4WD, a roll-bar mount 5. For mountain biking or motorbike, a helmet mount In other words, it's a bottomless pit of fancy option$ ;) Enjoy!
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Latest post on 04 December 2014 - 23:38
I remember seeing stuffed camel toys with Santa hats in the Camel Company shop. There are two shops at the Dubai Mall- one on the LG floor and the other on the second - I'm not certain about the other malls. You might want to ring and see if they have any stock or the size you're looking for.
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Latest post on 01 December 2014 - 15:44
I've just sent a mail, and you can delete your address now :)
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Latest post on 01 December 2014 - 15:22
Friends have used Posh Paws and were happy, and so were their three very vocal dogs. They also had similar positive experiences with DKC, if that might be another option to consider. DKC were just fabulous with my cat, and I really appreciated the email and photo updates they sent me.
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Latest post on 01 December 2014 - 15:02
Oh, no! Poor Coco and poor you. Hope you don't mind me asking but are you travelling with your other puss in the hold? A few airlines will allow one cat on-board, which would reduce your costs in getting both back to the UK. I have a little experience with sending my DC (darling cat) out of DXB, and assisting other friends, and can offer some advice if you want to exchange emails.
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Latest post on 01 December 2014 - 13:18
Hi GB, A bit late but maybe you'll need something for your return flight? Melatonin works like a charm for me. I usually take 2 or 3 mg during the safety demos, and by the end of the first meal service, I'm ready for a long-haul sleep. I've never felt groggy on arrival like I have with prescription sedatives. Bonus: you'll have some on-hand for any jet lag at your destination. Hope your trip went well - safe travels! Cheers, NL
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Latest post on 16 October 2014 - 19:06
Mille mercis, Nayls85 & Guinness2 Al Quoz sounds like a good strategy for my morning shoots! :)
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Latest post on 16 October 2014 - 10:39
These are all great suggestions - thanks! The Creek in the late afternoon, and construction workers at night are super ideas. Now only need to schedule my early a.m. ... Redrec Tangle, I need to take the 20 photos all on Oct 20th so I'm trying to prepare my shooting day in advance. Will try and work in Breast Cancer Awareness to at least one of my shots. Oopsiedaisey, I worry that I wouldn't waddle away from the 5th or 6th chocolate shop ;)
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Latest post on 15 October 2014 - 14:38
The Dubai Mall Waitrose has the large, carveable ones, and adorably wee decorative ones.
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Latest post on 02 October 2014 - 03:35
Great news, tonight I called again for Priti, and about 30 minutes later she was standing at the back door looking in. She is quite skinny, but ok and very hungry. Unbelievable, tears in our eyes that she is ok. Thanks everyone for your help. Yaay!! So happy for you and for Priti :) Furry hugs all around ...
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Latest post on 26 September 2014 - 15:47
Nope, not just you. I booked a flight on-line last week. I had to re-enter my log-in several times, and refresh the pages many other times before getting the flight information I needed. The ticket purchase was just as painful, and the site was unable to process my seating selection until after several tries. Signing out and logging back in seemed to be the trick. I sent a message to Emirates but have not heard back (yet?).
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Latest post on 24 September 2014 - 21:31
Thanks everyone for all of your helpful suggestions. I'll definitely check out the websites, which is something I hadn't thought of before - great idea. Just looked at roadrunnersport and it does looke helpful. Thanks, again! A dedicated running store would be very much welcomed by me :) And a Lululemon, too ...
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Latest post on 21 September 2014 - 23:01
Yep, like the recipe says, just chuck in the nuts and whir away. I always do a blend of nuts and often don't actually have any peanuts in there at all. The current batch is brazils, cashews, almonds and macadamias. Ohhh, that sounds scrumptious, Daza! I've been wanting to try macadamia for a while but have worried that I'd become addicted despite the 1-millon calories per spoonful ;) My latest batch is pumpkin seed, sunflower seed, and almond.
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Latest post on 21 September 2014 - 22:44
Thanks, madamerose Think I'll also have to 'make peace' and buy the Saucony ones that seem to fit best but are poorly constructed. (I'm beginning to wonder if the shoe companies release lesser-rated models here). I, too, miss my neighbourhood Running Room, and will have to stock up when back home at Christmas.
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Latest post on 21 September 2014 - 22:31
Have you been to Essa at JLT. I love their Dermalogica facials. When you say cheap what price are you looking at? Hi saralou123, Could you recommend anyone from Essa for facials? I have very sensitive skin. Their website is not working. Thanks, NL Miss Dani. She is really amazing. I have really sensitive skin. Just started my treatments with her and it's really amazing. But they are very busy though. Waiting time for an appointment is about 4-5 weeks. Try calling 04 374 4288 - that's their number. Thanks, Tjasha. Four-ish weeks is just about when I'll need a facial. Will try to make an appointment with Miss Dani. Cheers!
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Latest post on 20 September 2014 - 20:35
Hi Parisienne, I began making peanut butter after the same frustrations with finding a healthy, organic brand whilst living abroad. It's surprisingly easy! I've pasted a link that explains how simple it is; you only need a food processor. I also make almond butter the same way. Yum! http://www.browneyedbaker.com/diy-homemade-peanut-butter/ Cheers, NL
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Latest post on 20 September 2014 - 13:36
Oh, Peta. Don't lose hope. I had a lost kitty who re-appeared in the middle of the night after 3.5 weeks. We went out searching each night because of cats being nocturnal, and our presumption that he was likely hiding from the heat and sun during the daytime. Sending lots of pawsitive thoughts ...
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Latest post on 20 September 2014 - 13:25
Have you been to Essa at JLT. I love their Dermalogica facials. When you say cheap what price are you looking at? Hi saralou123, Could you recommend anyone from Essa for facials? I have very sensitive skin. Their website is not working. Thanks, NL
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Latest post on 20 September 2014 - 13:19
I found Arabian Adventures use the small bumpy dunes out behind AlAwir instead of going out to the big red dunes. The dunes there are small and frequent and make for a very bumpy trip. There are many companies that go out to the big red dunes which are a smoother and more fun ride. Is there a local name for the 'big red dunes' or what would one ask for? Also, is there a company as well-reviewed here as Arabian Adventures that goes to these dunes?
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Latest post on 20 September 2014 - 13:14
Forgot to add below that I've ordered twice from Eileen Fisher (you can also go down in the sizing) but both shipments took more than 3-weeks to arrive! Will likely wait to shop in-person. If you don't mind the wait, her pieces are lovely and great quality. I have one long jersey-silk skirt that I've been wearing non-stop for years ... eileenfisher.com
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Latest post on 20 September 2014 - 03:46
I'm in love with Gudrun Sjödén, a Swedish store with fab on-line service. The designs may not be to everyone's taste - ethnic prints, bold colours, lots of layers - but they're perfect for my work where I have to cover myself in long and loose clothing, and for my large amount of travel ... functional and versatile whilst being stylish! Well, as stylish as possible in full-body cover :) My orders are shipped to Dubai (by UPS) and all have arrived within 5-7-days max. with a full-return policy. The shipping is free but I have to pay the customs fees on delivery :( If you decide to order anything from Gudrun, enroll into the (free) club membership, as you'll receive discounts on all orders, and special discounts on other items throughout the seasons. A small caveat: everything seems to be designed for the long and lovely Scandinavian body-types so tunics, dresses and trousers are looong (check lengths on the descriptions), and you can easily go down one-size, e.g. from L to M. I'm 5'6" and have to shorten most things. They provide very reliable sizing guides on each piece, as well as care instructions. gudrunsjoden.com
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Latest post on 20 September 2014 - 01:47
As Mama1 says, and also in Waitrose ...
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Latest post on 26 August 2014 - 11:07
Thanks a lot, Plum2! Will do. Cheers, NL
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Latest post on 23 August 2014 - 22:33
What and where is the Organic Shop? Will I find lots of fresh and packaged vegan / vegetarian foods there? Or any suggestions for a someone living Downtown? So far, it seems to be hit and miss with trying to do one-stop shopping at most of the larger supermarkets.
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Latest post on 15 August 2014 - 13:34
Hahaha ... Kids in dirty trolley seats ... #firstworldproblems :) But, seriously, I do miss my Whole Foods days, with their lovely smelling, free-range, organic, whatever ;) sanitiser wipes for baskets and trolleys, and (free) drinking water. As for any sort of excrement on or near an eating surface - dine-in or dine-out - ewwwwww!
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Latest post on 15 August 2014 - 13:14
Hi JJBAUS, Sorry but I'm wondering if it depends on your member status, i.e. silver, gold, platinum? :( I travel a lot (too much) and have a gold tier status. Maybe I've just been lucky but I've had no problems upgrading although what Dally says is correct - there are 24 hour rules for certain fares, and some departure points and routes won't allow upgrades until check-in. I ran into this recently with being able to upgrade the DXB-BKK leg on-line but couldn't do the same for the return flight until at the airport. Sucks but I'm still pretty "brand loyal" to Emirates, especially for their inflight service and crews; the ground service, not so much. Interestingly, a colleague was actually seated on-board her overnight flight when it seemed like the surrounding passengers might not be the most conducive to sleeping (a rowdy group of fun-loving travellers). She was able to upgrade right then and there! Cheers, NL
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Latest post on 15 August 2014 - 12:31
Hi Maichka, What GeordieExpat says here: http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/topic225923-absolute-best-colourist-in-dubai--help-please.aspx Essentials on Al Wasl Road. Meghan and Holly are fab! Cheers, NL
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Latest post on 15 August 2014 - 12:11
Hi BB, Very sorry to hear about your son and his accident. Although I'm a (non-practising) nurse-practioner, I don't think that anyone in the medical profession should be providing you with specific advice - on a forum - without first examining your son, and reviewing his medical history. If you are concerned with receiving conflicting recommendations, then I suggest you quickly seek a second opinion from a qualified and recommended orthopaedic surgeon and/or sports medicine orthopaedic specialist. I wouldn't completely rule out a paediatric orthopod, as your son is still growing at age 16, including his legs ;) Just find someone you feel comfortable with. All of the above being said, I have had a similar injury with a fibula/tibula fracture & ankle dislocation that also needed open reduction and internal fixation (plates, pins, screws). In general, the approach is to remain non-weight bearing for at least six weeks but to remove the cast as soon as possible, and use an air cast or splint (preferable) in order to maintain and promote muscle and ligament movement & strengthening. It can be a long recovery so be prepared for that. Your son should be back to water sports soon enough but running and impact sports will take longer. A good (sports medicine) physiotherapist will be invaluable, and speaking from my own experience, finding one that your son will trust, and will work well with, is key to a speedier healing. Hope he's feeling better soon, and that your concerns are also alleviated soon. Let us know how you get along! Sending lots of positive thoughts . . . Cheers, NL (apologies - I'm too new to Dubai to recommend anyone) edited by NorthernLights on 15/08/2014 edited by NorthernLights on 15/08/2014 <em>edited by NorthernLights on 15/08/2014</em>