Oopsiedaisy | ExpatWoman.com
 

Oopsiedaisy

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Latest post on 29 May 2014 - 09:51
Did you manage to get your car out and in last weekend? edited by Oopsiedaisy on 29/05/2014 Didn't risk it - got some expert advise telling me that if they noticed i woudl be stopped, so didn't try it. What have you done? I can't go away for a holiday without something happening am in the grace period of my registration and i dont want to renew until end of isurance period.... am being tight. Not tight, frugal.
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Latest post on 29 May 2014 - 09:49
That is why we now do afternoon tea. Fed and watered for less :) So do I, but with girlfriends only. When we have couples visiting I prefer to go for drinks after DH gets home from work. Will be trying Vault as an alternative next week.
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Latest post on 29 May 2014 - 09:47
i thought minimun spent was just for men...... so not too bad really. No, they've abandoned that over a year ago. It's per person.
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Latest post on 29 May 2014 - 09:38
Did you manage to get your car out and in last weekend? <em>edited by Oopsiedaisy on 29/05/2014</em>
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Latest post on 29 May 2014 - 09:37
There were several threads on here as to why taking guests up there was so nice etc. We have done so many times, but they've now doubled their minimum spend to 300 AED (pp) for non window and 500 AED for a window table. Am I the only one finding this over the top (as opposed to at the top)?
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Latest post on 29 May 2014 - 09:29
So this obviously also implicates those in villas who pay a gardener a few hundred dhs every month to water / tend to their garden? No it does not as they are employed by companies who have a different license, like agency maids. The "as" should be an "if". There're also gardeners who are not employed by a company, in which case it indeed is illegal. Edited twice to get the gardener right ? edited by Oopsiedaisy on 29/05/2014 <em>edited by Oopsiedaisy on 29/05/2014</em>
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Latest post on 29 May 2014 - 07:38
I'm actually quite impressed by this woman who seems to be making sure that her boy gets regular exercise. Too many kids (here and all over the western world) are being wheeled back and forth to school, sports activities etc. whereas riding a bike or walking would also be a possibility. She's walking with him so obviously is making sure he's safe. And really, 1 mile isn't too much for a 5 year old. My parents took me for hiking trips of much more when I was that age. It's just what you are used to.
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Latest post on 26 May 2014 - 21:16
we always go away in July as its both mine and hubby birthday so always choose something with our own pool - just booked a fab deal .... i know we are not suppose to recommend but I always use the travel agent that alot of the girls use on here ;-) Would you mind sharing where you're going? Looking to get away mid July as well.
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Latest post on 20 May 2014 - 23:31
Thanks.
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Latest post on 20 May 2014 - 23:26
Makes me wonder why the nannies are out with the kids at night. I would think it is their time off and that parents would mind their kids.
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Latest post on 15 May 2014 - 07:38
You might want to try this with your dad: http://blog.petflow.com/this-epic-mother-son-wedding-dance-will-blow-you-away-go-mom-go/#xyPKcy6lgxV2MR09.01
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Latest post on 14 May 2014 - 08:13
Traiteur has a full [b'>Asperges[/b'> menu at the moment. Oh lovely! Must be a new dining concept! :D Very funny, getting back to me then right? The best Asperges come from Germany and The Netherlands and that's what they are called there. Actually, it gave me a chuckle, had mental visions of being sprinkled with holy water while dining, just a lighthearted comment but if you want to take it negatively up to you. ETA did not know we were speaking German or Dutch. edited by Di@DXB on 14/05/2014 Oops, in that case, please elaborate. What does holy water have to do with Asperges???? I have no clue, not even in second thought. Asperges is when they sprinkle the congregation with holy water as a blessing, so you see how I thought the idea of being blessed while dining on asparagus was kind of funny :) ETA just a joke of the word similarity. edited by Di@DXB on 14/05/2014 Really? I had no idea. Well, asparagus are kind of heavenly, so a blessing they are. ?
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Latest post on 14 May 2014 - 07:44
Traiteur has a full [b'>Asperges[/b'> menu at the moment. Oh lovely! Must be a new dining concept! :D Very funny, getting back to me then right? The best Asperges come from Germany and The Netherlands and that's what they are called there. Actually, it gave me a chuckle, had mental visions of being sprinkled with holy water while dining, just a lighthearted comment but if you want to take it negatively up to you. ETA did not know we were speaking German or Dutch. edited by Di@DXB on 14/05/2014 Oops, in that case, please elaborate. What does holy water have to do with Asperges???? I have no clue, not even in second thought.
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Latest post on 14 May 2014 - 07:41
I would like to add my 2 cents with regards to your remark about a new cultural experience. Dubai is a very westernised city, and even though there are many people with different nationalities and backgrounds I find the cultural experience minimal here. I've lived in other Islamic countries before and as for history or culture Dubai has very little to offer compared to e.g. Syria and Jordan. That said, I do like it here and would encourage anyone to at least try to give it a go. Your bf could probably find a job as there's a high demand for qualified construction people. There are several threads on how much money one would need in order to afford living in a place like this. Try and do a search on here, as opinions tend to vary. Good luck.
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Latest post on 14 May 2014 - 07:27
Traiteur has a full [b'>Asperges[/b'> menu at the moment. Oh lovely! Must be a new dining concept! :D Very funny, getting back to me then right? The best Asperges come from Germany and The Netherlands and that's what they are called there.
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Latest post on 14 May 2014 - 06:46
Traiteur has a full Asperges menu at the moment.
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Latest post on 12 May 2014 - 10:37
You don't mention who of your families are coming. I would assume that if it was close family, parents, in laws, sister, they would not only come to see the sights and enjoy a leisurely vacation. I would assume they would come for you, your baby, and to help you out. I would also assume they would be doing the cooking etc. and all of them would be running over each other to spent time with your kids as they see so little of them. And to be honest, if it were otherwise, I would kindly tell them to postpone their trip.
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Latest post on 12 May 2014 - 10:27
Wow Singarosa, well done, in managing to get back in shape and more than that. What would I do? Ignore her completely, indeed stop giving her advice. Brush her off if she calls you. I don't think you are overreacting. Some people are just plain mean, you don't need them in your live.
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Latest post on 12 May 2014 - 07:18
Thanks Fairydust. I will give it a go then
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Latest post on 12 May 2014 - 06:59
I haven't been to see it but I expect it's been chopped to bits. It was scheduled to be shown a few weeks ago and a friend of mine was cinema hopping to try and see it - without any luck it was suddenly withdrawn from all cinemas - but now it's back in the schedules. So I guess it's been hacked to bits. Why would it have been chopped to bits? It's a genuine question, because I've been waiting to see it and as others, won't bother if it has indeed been thoroughly censored. A shame, because somehow a DVD release just doesn't do it for me. All I could see was that the cinemas indicate 1 hour 40 minutes, the same as the original.
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Latest post on 11 May 2014 - 09:11
[ The crew member did ask people at bassinet seats if they would mind moving, and only one couple obliged - but on the condition it would be for only half the flight (it was a 14 hour flight). These people didn't have a child. Neither did the people at 3 other bassinets. edited by millymoo on 10/05/2014 Has it ever occurred to you that THESE PEOPLE might have requested the seats because those seats are in fact extra legroom seats as well? Why should THESE PEOPLE have to move to the "fold up" seats in the middle? And you are talking of arrogance? Who are you to decide that you have more rights to the extra legroom seats than others? I thought that passengers with infants had priority for the bassinet seats... I don't think so. As I say, they're not just bassinet seats, they're extra legroom. In order to get them you just show up really early for check-in. As for me, I have a non-visible condition that requires the extra legroom. If I manage to show up early enough at check-in to be assigned to such a seat, no way I would give it up for someone else. I need it. <em>edited by Oopsiedaisy on 11/05/2014</em>
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Latest post on 11 May 2014 - 08:59
[ The crew member did ask people at bassinet seats if they would mind moving, and only one couple obliged - but on the condition it would be for only half the flight (it was a 14 hour flight). These people didn't have a child. Neither did the people at 3 other bassinets. edited by millymoo on 10/05/2014 Has it ever occurred to you that THESE PEOPLE might have requested the seats because those seats are in fact extra legroom seats as well? Why should THESE PEOPLE have to move to the "fold up" seats in the middle? And you are talking of arrogance? Who are you to decide that you have more rights to the extra legroom seats than others?
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Latest post on 11 May 2014 - 08:50
Was going to suggest the same. We stayed at the Jetwing Laguna in Negombo. Only one night, before flying early in the morning, but the rooms and grounds were lovely.
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Latest post on 11 May 2014 - 08:15
As for good work shoes though (not moccasins, but still) DH buys Church's. There's a shop in MOE which sells them. They aren't cheap, but they last and last and last. Also very comfy too, I'm told. :) I tried to google Church shoes in Dubai, but nothing comes up (exept this thread, lol). Does anyone know if they are sold anywhere here? Or Crocket&Jones or similar shoes. DH is really struggling to find decent work shies here. Unfortunately that means I'm struggling with him, so any help would be highly appreciated.
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Latest post on 07 May 2014 - 06:55
In that case the course might very well be the reason for her dismissal. Those agency's prefer dependent women and are not in favour of maids wanting to improve theirselves. If she gets a 6 month ban, unfortunately there is nothing you can do. I thought if something else, if you really want to help her and fully trust her you can bring her back (after 6 months) on a tourist visa and give her the opportunity to find a new job. Good luck.
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Latest post on 06 May 2014 - 23:23
Unfortunately there is nothing you can do. As a sponsor it's up to the agency what to do. All I can think of is you find her a new sponsor who will bring her back. Unless her current agency puts a ban on her, in which case she can't return. Do you know why her visa is cancelled? Maybe there's something she isn't telling you?
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Latest post on 06 May 2014 - 20:23
I think he should treat YOU to a nice cup of tea to celebrate your 7000th post ? Congratulations. On the other hand, maybe you better not tell him, after all, he may think you prioritise EW to his well-being.
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Latest post on 06 May 2014 - 10:15
Or maybe even ask a neighbour? I would help out in a heartbeat if my neighbour or a friend would ask. And I don't have kids. It sometimes surprises me how pople here seem to often not think about the most obvious solution. As another poster says, if you don't ask, you don't get it.
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Latest post on 06 May 2014 - 09:30
No, but our help and support is appreciated as always. I believe Megsy, Daza an Sourskitt are merely being helpful.
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Latest post on 06 May 2014 - 08:05
We earn Skywards miles thru credit card and convert them to business class upgrades ;) Do you mean the airmiles you get from your HSBC credit card? Didn't know you could use them for upgrades as well. Do you need to upgrade before the flight via the airmiles system, or can it be done at the airport? TIA.
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Latest post on 06 May 2014 - 07:43
Here for the long run. Dubai has never been top of my list, but it has grown on me and I really like it here. Haven't yet reached the "love it" stage. Don't think I"l ever get there, but there're worse places to live.
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Latest post on 05 May 2014 - 10:21
Call Derek on 056 115 6652... no agency fees, just a flat transfer fee... Same difference!
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Latest post on 05 May 2014 - 09:40
I use Earlybird, but only for the bulk items like water, soda's, BBQ coals and ice. Pretty sure it is more expensive than going to the supermarket, but sooooo convenient, Reliable too, they show up on exactly the same time each week.
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Latest post on 05 May 2014 - 09:34
why such a big 4x4 when not needing it for offroad? I know petrol does not cost anything here, but should we not think about the environement!? I agree. Why do people always feel the need for such large cars. I love my Scooby XV. Good for you girls. Lovely example of starting a discussion when OP asked a simple question.
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Latest post on 05 May 2014 - 08:31
Landcruiser anytime.
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Latest post on 05 May 2014 - 07:51
I would recommend that you find an ethical breeder that is registered with the Kennel Club - in a country which supports ethical breeding. I would not recommend that you get a rescue dog if you have small children as you do not necessarily know how the animal has been treated. My Aunt had a rescue dog that used to bite any male (no matter the age) - was soft as with women / girls, we suspect that she had been terrorised by boys when she was a tiny puppy. Prepare to get slaughtered dear Izzy. I'll miss you ?
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Latest post on 05 May 2014 - 07:46
No No Dad is cool with them going! We are just trying to make a decision in everyones best interest… And he would want them to be with me:) Im super mom and besides we would arrange to see each other every month. He flies to NYC almost monthly for work now, so it could work. This is not a nasty split or anything like that... just wanted opinion on what others (expat women) would do in my shoes. No battles here! This sounds like a perfect solution to me. I'ld go for it.
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Latest post on 05 May 2014 - 07:37
That is a very nice thing to do. I'm contemplating to do the same next year. Not because it's too hard to say goodbye (she'll have to do that when he comes here as well), but because that way her family will not be able to strip her of all her savings. As far as I know your maid or her DH can sponsor the son for a tourist visa her/him self. Ours brings over family members on a tourist visa all the time. They then find a job and the sponsor transfers it to a domestic or working visa. I don't know about the costs, but it will probably depend on nationality. Alternatively you can sponsor the kid, but again, I don't know about costs. Assuming your maid lives with you, the son could as well, after all he'll be a tourist so there's no legal objection to him staying with you. I'll be watching this thread for answers. Maybe I'm completely wrong.
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Latest post on 04 May 2014 - 21:05
All is relative I guess. I find books here often cheaper than in my home country. But when I'm in the UK or US I tend to buy a whole suitcase of them because they're so incredibly cheap there.
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Latest post on 04 May 2014 - 20:54
Give RTA a chance. More often than not the lost goods are returned to their owner.
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Latest post on 04 May 2014 - 20:51
You've given it a go for 5 years. I'ld say it's your turn now. Why can't DH do the same? Why can't he give you 5 years, move back with you, then after 5 years you decide. I agree, why is it often (not always) us women who give up their jobs. Sounds as if you ad a good career. If you stay any longer you will have difficulties getting back in. So to answer your question: go. <em>edited by Oopsiedaisy on 04/05/2014</em>
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Latest post on 04 May 2014 - 20:32
Not necessarily a recipe for disaster. Our maid did this with her husband, sister, brother in law, aunt and now a niece. They all found legit jobs. Everyone happy. She did however tell me, but basically she doesn't have to. Apparently Immigration doesn't ask questions. <em>edited by Oopsiedaisy on 04/05/2014</em>
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Latest post on 04 May 2014 - 08:22
I would say it means that they can't believe it's a question. As in they know the answer already?
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Latest post on 04 May 2014 - 08:20
As for speed limits I am not aware of any roads that have a 140kmph limit, however for some reason some areas have a 'grace limit' although this does not mean you need to race along at that limit as standard. I am quite sure the speed limits are set for a reason and the traffic department who set those limits by studying traffic flow and accident statistics probably know a fair bit more about driving in Dubai than anyone on these forums. It's like preaching to teenagers sometimes. Most AD highways (including the AD parts of Dubai-Al Ain and Dubai-Abu Dhabi) have a 140 km speed limit. It has nothing to do with a grace limit, so if I were you I would make sure to be properly informed before starting to compare others to teenagers.
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Latest post on 04 May 2014 - 07:37
Cafelatte, as I see it you have two options this Friday: 1. Accept your FIL's (non) offer to eat at their place.. 2. Order food. Either way you'll be fine now that you've vented and decided not to put up with it any longer. And your dh is backing you, so that's all you need. Good luck.
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Latest post on 01 May 2014 - 16:49
Al Barsha The distance between Barsha and Sharjah is a minimum of 50 km. The commute out of Sharjah in the mornings and into Sharjah in the evenings is horrible. It may take him anywhere between 1 and 2 hours twice a day. If you're looking at affordable housing you're better of looking at appartments in silicon oasis. But you will need a car as I don't think there's public transport between Silicon Oasis and Barsha. I don't know about schools there, maybe others can advice.
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Latest post on 01 May 2014 - 16:36
Mine uses a different cup or glass every time he has a drink of water, he'll put the glass down next to the dishwasher (not in it) and then 2 seconds later take another glass out of the cupboard. edited by starsouthern on 01/05/2014 Hmm, it seems as if my dh belongs in the multiple wives thread ?
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Latest post on 01 May 2014 - 14:50
But how do working mothers manage. Does everyone has a nanny. Thats strange That's a Dubai fact. Most have. Or they manage to land a job at a school where they can also enroll their kid. Part-time work is hard to find here. <em>edited by Oopsiedaisy on 01/05/2014</em>
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Latest post on 01 May 2014 - 14:40
The American School of the Hague has three weeks in December, always has. People like to go home to the States. From Dubai, two weeks would be tough with the jet lag, it takes us 22 hours total time to get home. 6 hour time change is not bad, 9 would be tough. I talk to the principal and it's not as bad as I thought, 2 weeks at Christmas, 2 at Easter and 2 days at Thanksgiving. What are the SEPT holidays, we just got her in Jan? Principal said if we missed 1-2 days in October it would be no problem. I am just not one to yank her out of school like some people do. Sorry, didn't realise you were talking about international schools in The Netherlands.
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Latest post on 01 May 2014 - 14:32
But you get lots of extra days/weeks for Eid al Adha and Eid al Fitr compared to The Netherlands. And what schools give a three week break for Christmas in The Netherlands? Surely it's only two, which is the same as here. Why can't you go home for 2 weeks? Alternatively you could ask family to join you here over Christmas and spend the money you would on your own tickets on theirs.