The Original BMAP | ExpatWoman.com
 

The Original BMAP

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Latest post on 11 March 2013 - 06:55
Oh yeah, would that be Gallery One? On the left as you walk from the Home Centre end towards Ski Dubai?
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Latest post on 11 March 2013 - 06:32
Yes, there is a guy called Tamer Khalifa who works via Artes at Times Square. He is an Egyptian who does altered digital art. I own 3 of his pieces and one is images of the Grand Mosque. You will see some of his work on this facebook page, but not all as he doesn't put his best stuff on there - worried it will be copied. https://www.facebook.com/tamer.faroukkhalifa/photos_stream If you go see him, say hi from Fiona in the Meadows ;-) Global village I think in the Kuwait pavillion has some naive paintings of Islamic villages. But in my opinion, they are very expensive for what is actually a mass-produced piece of work. <em>edited by The Original BMAP on 11/03/2013</em>
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Latest post on 08 March 2013 - 22:40
The only thing I have to add is... ....[b'>frozen peas[/b'>. 2 packets. One to sit on your sore spots and one to put back in the freezer while the first one melts on your sore spots. But seriously, there was a post here a couple of weeks ago about a lady taking her young daughter to be waxed for the first time. The salon used some new kind of wax and apparently it didn't hurt one bit. Might be worth hunting that down. I last time I got waxed down there I ended up wiht massive bloodblisters and welts which lasted approximately the amount of time it took for the hair to regrow. Completely defeated the purpose. After that I went and got lasered. That was 12 years ago and I haven't looked back (or down, LOL).
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Latest post on 08 March 2013 - 18:27
Happy ending already. On the way back from the security gate I found his owners looking for him. They'd only got him yesterday! Had planned to head to a vet's tomorrow to see what the microchip said, but they told me that they haven't even had time to update the microchip records yet. That will now be moved to a high priority, LOL. Sweet little thing. Was only 5 months old, apparently. I love beagles too! they have gorgeous temperaments.
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Latest post on 06 March 2013 - 20:13
I have a girlfriend in Oz who is disproportionately heavy from her hips down. Very, very obvious. She had a lot trouble getting pants to fit because of it. Small waist and arms normal but big saddlebag hips and thighs. She got into spin classes on the bike and the fat just melted off her. Doing these on a regular basis and watching what she ate, in 3 months she had normal body proportions. She had to keep it up though. She stopped for a time when she fell pregnant and it started to return. Clearly the propensity to hold on to fat in that area was a genetic thing for her.
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Latest post on 06 March 2013 - 20:08
Irish, I don't know where you live, but creative Minds in Al Barsha 2 definitely have individual packs of Harry Potter glasses. I saw them a few days ago. Not sure what time they close. I think 10 pm but you could give them a call to check 04 3237 180/81/82
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Latest post on 06 March 2013 - 16:33
The Hobbit? Would require a trip to Lulu's for braces, then down the road to Creative Minds for big ears. An old shirt and 3/4 pants.
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Latest post on 06 March 2013 - 16:06
That kid from Diary of a Wimpy Kid? Black shorts, white T-shirt. MAybe he's at least seen the movie so he can talk about the plot? ETA: I thought originally you had said 14 MONTH old son and I typed in suggesting one of the Mr Men, LOL.
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Latest post on 06 March 2013 - 14:03
Yep. That's why I was really excited to go to Stargate! Did not look that though!!! LOL Thanks for the other links. Yes...more like a car boot sale, from my experience - but I have only gone once! A mate of mine insisted on going when he arrived a few months ago (same reason I went) and he said the same thing "bunch of maids fighting over clothes" lol <em>edited by The Original BMAP on 06/03/2013</em>
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Latest post on 06 March 2013 - 13:52
That's exactly why I went to the one at Stargate when we first arrived (same as the one in Safa Park during winter). We had an empty house and I needed to decorate it quickly. I really wanted to do it with local stuff. There was nothing to be seen. 80% of items being sold were old clothes and shoes that had just been piled in big cardboard moving boxes. If you wanted to look at them you had to fight through a phalanx of maids who were pushing and grabbing to get to the best items. 10% was DVD's The remaining 10 % was serious junk - kitchen items - some of which were broken or chipped (vases, plates etc), and household goods that were just bad taste junk. ETA: I haven't been to a car boot sale so I can't comment on that. But the market I attended was not like a flea market in an English Village or Europe as like you I went with the romantic notion of buying something regional that was pre-loved. Nothing like that to be seen. <em>edited by The Original BMAP on 06/03/2013</em>
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Latest post on 06 March 2013 - 13:38
BMAP, that is what I would imagine it to be, just a load of old junk. " Sakhifa: BMP and CMM, that's basically the definition of a fleat market....what more were you expecting?" I guess with flea markets I've been to in the past they are a step above junk. Generally you might find artworks people are turning over because they are changing their style. Second hand kitchen machines because they have upgraded. Kitchen utensils, crockery, serving ware - same reason. House accessories and decorations etc. Also old wares - like vintage things & decorations that others would be interested in buying because they are keen on retro stuff or just like them because they represent a time that is no longer... Mostly in Oz, flea markets sell things that you would sell second hand, but because they are small items, it is not worth having the multitude of people coming to your home to look at them and decide whether or not to buy. Some of the stuff at Stargate I would not have even put in a charity bin!
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Latest post on 06 March 2013 - 12:49
Has anyone been to this before? What kind of things were they selling? I went to the one at Stargate soon after arriving and it was a huge anti-climax. Basically old clothes, DVDs and some miscellaneous junk. Wouldn't do it again so wondering if this one is likely to be any better.
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Latest post on 05 March 2013 - 19:18
Yes, My Pomegranate molasses is not sweet. I was at the expat woman fair and had a chat to that celebrity cook who was there - Suzzane someoneorother. I have one of her books and it has fantastic recipes and uses a lot of pomegranate molasses. She also confirmed it is the molasses you want not the syrup or grenadine.
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Latest post on 05 March 2013 - 18:00
I asked this question a while back and was told by those in the know that grenadine was much sweeter than pomegranate molasses so not the same thing. In spinneys you can get PM in the cake making section - with the rose water etc. Tahini is in the breakfast spreads I think.
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Latest post on 05 March 2013 - 09:03
I've been bitten by a rat - at university when I was working with them. Like you said, I had to go have a tetanus shot immediately but no hospital stay. Perhaps there is some kind of virus or disease in the mice population of Thailand???
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Latest post on 05 March 2013 - 09:01
Sounds nasty. Being Australian we are somewhat used to living with deadly spiders. You can spider-proof your house to a degree - clean up your backyard so there are no little hidey-holes for them to live. They gravitate to dark places that are cooler so pots that aren't being used that might stay damp from the gardener hosing etc At least that is how it is at home. Might be worthwhile getting your yard sprayed as well - around the base of the house and the walls, your water pump shed if you have one. When my son got stung by a jellyfish off the Palm this time last year he had a bad reaction. We took him to Welcare (? The one near Safa Park). They explained to us that the only hospitals that had anti-venom in Dubai were the government hospitals and cautioned us that if ever one of the kids got bitten by something (eg scorpion etc) to get them to Rashid Hospital. HTH
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Latest post on 03 March 2013 - 15:23
Awww, gee you girls are sweet. Thanks for taking the time to respond. Sadly CMM, I don't think that's going to do the job as I need something that will liquifey at temperatures. I've seen posts about the melted chocolate (and melted mars bars!!!). It just didn't seem "right" but that will be my fallback option I think. GG - yes, I read somewhere about it being found occasionally at Safestway. I am time poor at the moment but I might have to take a look down there, just in case. It would be great if I could get them authentic. Once again ladies, thanks for your help. Much appreciated.
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Latest post on 02 March 2013 - 22:13
Littleone, could you let me know how they turn out? I might look for some coconut oil and try them with that and I will post feedback in here in case it's helpful.
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Latest post on 02 March 2013 - 21:36
LOL Thanks Cherry ripe, I just found the other thread. Strangely it didn't show up in my first search. But I've also found this blog suggesting coconut oil might do the trick... http://noshwithme.com/tag/copha-substitute/#.UTI3VzCdt1E
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Latest post on 27 February 2013 - 11:44
Is there just one RERA office? I'm glad to hear that "damsels in distress" can actually get help... :-) We were under the impression that as it is DH that is sponsoring me he has to do all the running around to the various places. As far as i know, yes, just one office - in the Lands Dept. The [u'>Rent Committee[/u'> are up in the Municipality Building. Like you, I have a DH who is flat out like a lizard drinking. In all our upsets regarding DEWA, RERA, LL absconding etc, I have been the one to go to the government offices. Just take an NOC from him giving you permission to discuss and you will be right. I have actually never been asked to produce ours, though I've had it at the ready. ETA: Also take a copy of his passport and visa. <em>edited by The Original BMAP on 27/02/2013</em>
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Latest post on 27 February 2013 - 10:37
My recommendation would be that you go into the RERA Offices (Lands Dept) and find the actual EJARI office. The Manager of EJARI is on the same floor as RERA. Tell him your issues and I believe he might be able to help you - I have found him helpful and sympathic in the past. IMO it is better that you go as I think they like to help "damsels in distress".
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Latest post on 21 February 2013 - 21:45
SM - there were 2 independent sightings of a leopard prowling around The Lakes yesterday apparently.
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Latest post on 21 February 2013 - 16:05
LOL I was going to ask whether it had spots or not...maybe it was the alleged Leopard lurking from yesterday at the Lakes. ;-)
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Latest post on 21 February 2013 - 14:08
Norak would you be ok if I posted this on the Meadows, Lakes, Springs Community Facebook Group? We have a couple of ladies in there who are actually living in Emirates Hills and they might know where it belongs. Thanks https://www.facebook.com/groups/356982741075640/
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Latest post on 20 February 2013 - 22:43
Have you asked at a pharmacy? That is where they would be sold in my home country.
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Latest post on 20 February 2013 - 20:41
LOL well if we're going to head down that route, I have some rather large breasts that would be good for stuffing. Probably feed a tribe of Ethiopians for a month ;)
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Latest post on 20 February 2013 - 15:07
CD, forgot to mention, one of the last cats that went missing in Springs turned up in a close neighbour's garden shed, so maybe just see if you can ask the neighbours if you can check those too.
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Latest post on 20 February 2013 - 13:39
Hey Crazy Days :) I'm sorry to hear about Daisy. Do you want to put a picture of her up on the Meadows, Lakes, Springs Community - Dubai page on Facebook? We have dog-walkers, runners and families riding bikes on there who can keep an eye open as they travel around. If you have a photo, here is the link to the Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/356982741075640/ I hope you find her.
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Latest post on 19 February 2013 - 15:29
Heavens! Whatever are you using it for? Now I am really curious :-P
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Latest post on 19 February 2013 - 11:44
I currently use a Braun Silk-epil epilator. I've been epilating my legs since 1988, so 25 years now. In that time I've only had 2 different machines. I only have to do it once a month and it doesn't hurt at all. I'd recommend them. Yes, I believe it hurt to start with but once you've used it a few times you don't seem to notice it. It doesn't get the really fine hairs, but you don't notice them visually and your legs do feel nice and smooth. For convenience and price, I'd totally recommend this method.
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Latest post on 19 February 2013 - 07:02
Wow! I had no idea. Thank you both so much for your comments. Looks like I've got the cart before the horse. Was only going to spend a couple of days in Marrakesh then the rest in Casablanca and my husband was planning to head into his office in Casablanca so I [i'>would [/i'>have been out on my own with the kids! Looks like I'd better re-think the whole balance of the trip before I book the accommodation. Very much appreciate this information.
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Latest post on 18 February 2013 - 21:42
Bump... for the night crowd?
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Latest post on 18 February 2013 - 14:12
I try to stop at crossings when it's safe to do so, but there are some crossings placed in hugely unsafe locations and I have to confess (based on past experience) I now (like October) do not stop at those for fear that someone will either ram me up the behind if they are travelling too close or fly down the inside lane and take out the hapless pedestrian because they don't notice them. I would rather, in those instances, force the pedestrians to wait until there are no cars. Examples of badly located crossings: 1. The one about 5 m outside the roundabout at Little Spinneys in Meadows. Cars hurtle around that roundabout without looking at what is happening just off it. I have seen several rear endings and one car almost took a person out when I had stopped and they walked in front of my car. 2. One on the main road at Media City opposite the amphitheatre - comes straight out between parked cars so you cannot see the pedestrians on approach. 3. One about 2 metres round a blind corner on approach to the American University in Media City. It is hidden by the corner and by big bushes. If you jam on your brakes there for a person who's stepped out, you are very likely to have someone up your ****. <em>edited by The Original BMAP on 18/02/2013</em>
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Latest post on 17 February 2013 - 22:12
We saw it this evening when driving home via Al Khail Road. It landed in the desert area opposite DIA. No idea what it's about or why a helicopter would be landing there. Maybe it a pilot practising? Could that be possible?
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Latest post on 12 February 2013 - 17:22
Oh, good thinking MrsM. I hadn't considered that! Mina a Salam sounds nice. Also close to home and we haven't been there. Will have a look at their website. Thanks for the suggestion Yorky.
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Latest post on 10 February 2013 - 08:32
Personally, I would consider this offer with great caution. Another Brisbane girl (Northern Suburbs) and I have to be honest I would not have moved here to live in Ajman and for that financial package. I would be concerned that your DH's company is trying to scrimp on the money side of things. Why house you in Ajman when he works in Dubai? The other posters have made some great points. Ultimately, I think you might feel very isolated and not have enough money or resources to make a decent life for your family. Before we decided to move to Dubai (I stress "Dubai" - different emirate to Ajman ) we did some research on the costs of moving and living here. Now it may not be accurate for life in Ajman (which is poorer and less developed) but some of it might help you. If you follow this link, you will find the details within the thread: http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/messages.aspx?TopicID=156959 Good luck with your decision.
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Latest post on 08 February 2013 - 07:25
I know there's often talk on here about this mascara. I bought some in Australia for just over $50 (c.200aed) and am reallyhappy with it so 119 seems like a good deal. Thought I'd mention it's on a groupon offer today. Disclaimer: I have never bought anything from Groupon but have been warned that sometimes they don't deliver on their promise...
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Latest post on 08 February 2013 - 07:11
What about doing a breakfast buffet at atlantis? 155 aed and you can have a little bit of whatever you choose - American, English, Indian, Asian, Middle Eastern breakfasts? And a wander around the hotel after. It's at Kaleidescope next to the big fish tank.
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Latest post on 07 February 2013 - 21:14
I can't speak for the other destinations but highly recommend the Fairmont Mara Safari Club. You "glamp" on a cliff right above the Mara river where you can watch the hippos play during the day and listen to them squabble at night. Brilliant guides too. Check out Trip Advisor for lots of tips. For example, make sure you get an open sided 4 wheel drive - preferably a landcruiser. A lot of packages will outsource the driving in to minivans and they just cannot cope with the terrain. You will see a lot more if you have the right car. ETA: We flew to the Mara from Wilson airport with no problems. I would not want to do the drive. I met people who had tried it and it had taken a lot longer due to roads blocked by flood. <em>edited by The Original BMAP on 07/02/2013</em>
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Latest post on 07 February 2013 - 21:09
It would all depend on the maturity, competency and trustworthiness of the child in my opinion. There is no "blanket" age for this kind of decision. By maturity I mean their ability to make mature decisions about their behaviour eg not put popcorn on the stove in hot oil and walk away (as my BIL did at age 15 and subsequently burnt down the kitchen). By competency I mean their ability to handle an emergency in the right way (eg not stop an electrical fire by throwing water on it). By trustworthy I mean not inviting their friends around without parental permission while no adult there to supervise or not going onto Youtube and sourcing inappropriate material etc. Hmmm, re-reading that, I would say about 40 years old for boys and 25 for girls, LOL. edited by The Original BMAP on 07/02/2013 <em>edited by The Original BMAP on 07/02/2013</em>
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Latest post on 06 February 2013 - 06:49
I've seen them in MoE - Emu ones - not sure which shop but on the left as you walk towards Ski Dubai from the Home Centre end.
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Latest post on 05 February 2013 - 20:48
Have you tried Adventure HQ at Times Square? Or what about ringing these guys and asking if they sell them or know where you could get them? http://www.climbingdubai.com/pricing.html
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Latest post on 05 February 2013 - 20:25
Oh many apologies. I'm sure you're right, I had LASIK. Thought that was a typo and didn't realise there was another method. I'm so sorry if I caused you any additional anxiety. Yes , there was definitely a flap on mine. I hope it all works out. It is amazing when it does and I'm sure you'll feel it was all worth it.
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Latest post on 05 February 2013 - 19:51
You felt pain? I don't recall pain, just the horrid smell and a gritty feeling afterwards.
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Latest post on 05 February 2013 - 19:50
Oh dear. That doesn't sound right to me. I had it done 13 years ago and from my recollection even by the time I'd got home after the surgery I could see better than I could without my glasses previously. I followed doctors orders and stayed home with my plastic specs on the next day. By 24 hours later everything was hunky dory and sharp as a tack. So it really was a 24 hour turnaround for me. I understand there's probably a bell curve of normal for recovery though. Perhaps you are still within the bell curve but just at one end?
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Latest post on 05 February 2013 - 12:51
I think the nearest post office would be in Knowledge Village but I don't think they have post boxes there. I looked into this when we first moved here, and the closest post boxes I could find were at Karama (Media City used to have them but then closed down apparently). So we just have everything directed to my husband's office. That was 2011 though and things might have changed since then...
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Latest post on 05 February 2013 - 09:25
Funny, we used a company called Exclusive Links too and the agent lied by ommission and did a runner when things went wrong. This was for a rental though and I believe the agent has now moved on to another agency. It really is a lottery.
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Latest post on 05 February 2013 - 09:21
7 Days. The article says the driver pushed her arm. Someone told me they heard on the radio she was actually sitting on the car.
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Latest post on 04 February 2013 - 13:03
I'm pretty sure Australia has a mandatory quarantine period for all animals entering the country, because they are a "rabies-free zone" That would be a deal breaker for me if it was my dog! edited by Talia8089 on 04/02/2013 I'm not sure what you mean by this Talia. But yes, they do have mandatory quarantine. If you get the proper shots at the right times, you can minimise the quarantine period to one month, but nothing less. Otherwise the animal needs to have the shots and stay here for 5 months until they're ready to head home and do the final month. They won't quarantine them for 6 months as they consider it too cruel for the animals (based on my discussions with an AQIS Officer before leaving for Dubai).
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Latest post on 04 February 2013 - 12:59
Jet Pets did our pup from Oz to here with Dubai Kennels and Cattery collecting her at this end. Might be worth sending them an email to get figures. They were very helpful and did an excellent job. I'm so glad you're already thinking long term for your pet. Many people don't and just abandon them when they leave. And I second what Ruth M said about adoption it would be so much nicer to adopt a pup who's already been socialised and is looking for a home than buying a puppy farm animal.