pinks | ExpatWoman.com
 

pinks

pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 May 2011 - 12:52
I'll look into the tooth mousse option... If you can't find it here, when I had bad sensitivity in one tooth a few years ago, a dentist told me to put a blob of Sensodyne toothpaste on the area (ok, you cant talk to anyone for an hour or so!) as well as brushing with that three times a day and I do that too when I'm doing the overnight-whitening treatment which helps
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 May 2011 - 09:53
I've taken my Kia to the dealership for servicing for the past year - I know lots of people will shoot me down for doing so, but I've found the prices are very similar to independent garages, and the plus points being I deal with the same guy every time, I'm getting genuine parts, they have never tried to up-sell (even when I'm concerned about things like brake pads, they will tell me no, you've got xxx miles still before they need changing), and they often have deals. Earlier this month I got a 75k service for almost half price. Oh, and they turn it around in a day and they are open on Saturdays!
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 May 2011 - 09:07
Not sure if it's available here, but ask your dentist for 'Tooth Mousse'. My dentist gave me a tube back in the UK when I had my teeth whitened (did the overnight one) and it's fantastic - it looks like toothpaste but you just put a blob where the pain is (if you have overnight whitening trays then you can put it in there) and it desensitises your teeth amazingly quickly.
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 06 May 2011 - 14:33
..and I just popped into Madinat on the off chance I might be able to pick tickets up earlier (hope over experience, of course!). The ampitheatre is all screened off, and the lady at the main box office told me tickets could be picked up from 7 or 7.30 at the ampitheatre entrance, NOT the box office, so all the instructions on the email (i.e. pick tickets up from 6pm from the box office) are incorrect! At least there are no 'bad' seats there.
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 05 May 2011 - 11:00
Good morning! In my opinion, you need to attest the following documentation (in three years of being here/working this is all I've needed): 1. Marriage certificate 2. If you want to work at any point, you'll need any certificates that you mention on your CV (i.e. degree or other qualifications). Some employers just want your highest qualification, others want every single one. Assume you are coming from the UK? In which case you'll need to take these to the Foreign and Commonwealth offices in Milton Keynes, and then down to the UAE embassy in Kensington. Hope that helps!
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 05 May 2011 - 10:52
Others may know better, but that's the only ampitheatre there that I'm aware of. We've been before for free events, and there's been a bar/waiter service. At least all the 'steps' are really wide, so that it's easy to move around and get to spaces to sit down.
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 05 May 2011 - 10:40
DH and I were discussing the same last night... his main concern was that people who havent paid for the tickets would be able to hear what we've paid 200 each for! Assuming the ampitheatre is the outside area next to Noodle House? In which case it will be a free for all. Will have to be there early to collect tickets.
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 May 2011 - 13:25
Why not just connect some speakers to you iPod / laptop and play direct from the source... much easier and means you have complete control all evening?
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 May 2011 - 09:18
Safe flight home this morning CT. Friday mornings just won't be the same without you x x x :(
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 03 May 2011 - 21:27
Possibly of no use for this time, but keep some lavender oil in the house. It's one of the only essential oils you can use directly on the skin (I've trained in aromatherapy in a previous life), and if applied to a burn [b'>(only if the skin is NOT broken)[/b'> it will stop the burn from blistering and apart from a little soreness, it heals amazingly fast. As previously mentioned, with unbroken skin, get the area cool as quickly as possibly, generally under a running cold tap, and then apply. Hope it feels better soon!
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 20 April 2011 - 15:38
Caramel at DIFC is great. Don't like it there - way too noisy and I really dislike restuarants where they automatically give you a torch to look at the menu - means you can't see your food when it arrives!
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 April 2011 - 09:09
From my previous post on the subject: When you buy anything in the UK over about £30 (that you will be bringing back here), you need to ask for a VAT Free Shopping Form AT THE POINT OF MAKING THE PURCHASE. Most retailers will then simply print you out an additional and very long receipt, they will sign it, and also get you to sign it to declare that you don't live in Europe or the UK and that you will be taking the goods out of the country within the next 3 months. You will also need to fill in your permanent address here in Dubai, your Passport No, the date you entered the UK and the date that you are leaving. Apart from signing it, you can fill all the other details in at your leisure - i.e you don't have to do it in the shop. I generally do them all at the same time just before I fly. Get the till assistant to staple your receipt to this piece of paper, then you can't lose it. The only shop where they have to fill in a handwritten form for you at Customer Services rather than a the till is Marks & Spencer, but still no hassle for you in the long run. When you get to the airport, and BEFORE YOU CHECK IN, you need to go to the HM Customs desk, with all your luggage. You then hand over your passport and all the forms, they check them, give you back your reciepts, and give you the tax back, minus an admin charge. Technically they can ask to see your puchases (hence you have to go there BEFORE you check your suitcase in, although I've never ever been asked, or seen anyone asked). However, if you have jewellery or eletronics (e.g. an iPhone), these have to be taken airside and you will actually be asked to show them at the Customs desk. The admin charge is a bit of a rip off (you generally get about 9-11% back, not the full 20%), but on my last trip back, I got £85 back for filling in 6 forms. It's much easier than it sounds, and MUCH better than letting the government have it! There are two VAT-back companies that shops deal with - one lets the HM Customs desk give the money straight back on your cc there and then, the other needs to be sent off in the post, but the staff at the desk do this for you and the money goes back on your cc within a couple of weeks (if you want cash, you'll pay an extra charge). Just remember to ask for a form for ANYTHING you're bring back - I even did a big cosmetics run at Boots and got the tax back!
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 April 2011 - 08:58
I had a core biopsy at City Hospital 6 months ago with Dr Alex after finding a breast lump - all the staff were fabulous (yes, I was petrified!). You're lying on a bed, and they give you a couple of local anaesthetic injections and hence you feel absolutely no pain, just a little pushing and pulling, but they use ultrasound to make sure they are going in at the right place first time. They took three samples from me, which must have taken 2 minutes tops. They then put a dressing on, and you are free to leave. You keep the dressing on (and dry!) for 48 hours, and all I was left with was the tiniest little bruise and three little marks - all disappeared quickly, and no pain or discomfort afterwards. Again, all the staff were fantastic and I'd have no hesitation going back there for more treatment.
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 April 2011 - 12:51
Hi Nasmo - is it completely deactivated or just 'hidden'? I always do updates through a VPN so havent lost it by local updates, but now the only way I can get to facetime is through the contacts list, (i.e. if I look up DH as I know he's got an iPhone 4 too), and there's a facetime button to call him through.
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 15 April 2011 - 09:04
Oh wow. Sitting here in tears now. So very true!
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 April 2011 - 18:51
What ever happened to calling your boss/colleagues when you're going to be late or off sick? I'm not just talking about the UAE (I ran teams in the UK and Europe for far too many years). I'm fed up with people texting me saying they will be off sick today rather than having the courage and courtesy to call me. Fine, if you get an unanswered or switched off phone then you can send a text, but at least try to call, as you can then explain what the problem is and how long you expect to be out. Rant over.
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 April 2011 - 13:04
I don't have first hand knowledge, but my friend was a teacher there last year with her DD (aged 16), doing IB. Both happy there - DD was involved in so many activities and sports from the beginning and made lots of both local and expat friends. She said that the teaching level was good - not the highest, but still good.
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 April 2011 - 08:56
Doesn't matter who you are - there's nothing like a bit of retail therapy ;)
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 April 2011 - 21:57
Never seen small change in Dubai, however the super supermarket Abela in Etihad Plaza always gives you every single fil back - I've started doing all my shopping there on the way back from work!
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 April 2011 - 13:14
Call your V p N provider - they can change the IP address and server associated with your connection. Many providers allow you to do this yourself, but if you are IT challenged I've found them to be very helpful!
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 April 2011 - 12:02
On the night in question we just went into C4 and there was just the one clothes steamer there amongst the irons, so we bought that. The steam, by definition, is over 100 degrees, so you can kill anything! We actually found a BB and it was dead before the steamer was even on top of him (it gets addictive!)
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 April 2011 - 11:17
(..having done ENDLESS research re the dreaded bed bugs when we had them last year...) A mere 60 degrees kills them - you don't have to go as high as 90 - and anything you can't machine wash, you can steam. We bought a steam machine from C4 (next to the irons and it was only about AED 200) and managed to steam everything, from clothes to toys to pillows. Made me feel much better and the pest control guys said this was perfect solution. I feel your pain!
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 April 2011 - 11:12
AXA also have very good global annual cover. They have Worldwide, and Worldwide excluding USA (which is normally cheaper) but when I asked for this one they told me they are both the same price
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 31 March 2011 - 16:15
New company, new team, no PA as yet, so am helping organising meetings. Requested catering for an all day meeting with external guests today... got an email back saying "Light snakes only." Very tempted to respond and ask for a supplier!
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 30 March 2011 - 22:02
www.counsellingdubai.com/about-me.html Can't recommend Helen highly enough - she is very experienced in dealing with loss. Big hugs to your friend.
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 29 March 2011 - 17:53
Must admit to always booking first (telling them I have vouchers even if I havent)and [i'>then [/i'>buying the vouchers, as I'm convinced if I do it the other way round I'll end up out of pocket with vouchers and no table! But given the amount that were bought today, I think they are trying it on, as the T&Cs clearly stated that it was valid on Fridays only
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 29 March 2011 - 17:49
and another to ???? ...complain about on maid threads!
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 29 March 2011 - 17:40
Hmmmm... we're only a table of 5 - not sure if that makes any difference? I'd call again and ask nicely!
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 29 March 2011 - 17:38
We're running two laptops in our apartment and paying for 8meg with du - my speed this week has gone from bad to worse, (either without, or especialy with the v p n) but when DH does the speedtest.net on his laptop, he's getting speeds of 11meg - don't understand it!
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 29 March 2011 - 17:34
Did you ask to go on Saffron's waiting list? I did this morning, after being told it was fully booked, and the restaurant (rather than the reservation's desk) called me within the hour to confirm my reservation. I think they do that when it's near capacity, so worth a go.
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 29 March 2011 - 13:57
Hi If I remember correctly (and I'm probably wrong!) it's 5,000, (this was a while ago so may be higher now) but if you just take your passport to the counter with your ATM card you can have as much as is in your account in one go, no questions. <em>edited by pinks on 29/03/2011</em>
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 26 March 2011 - 21:20
Hi Rachel She shouldn't have any problems getting tested whilst unmarried - my DH (then boyfriend) went through full testing here at one of the fertility clinics when we were looking at IVF (I was still living in the UK at the time) and then got the results sent through to London. He didn't get asked by the clinic, but when going to the doctor to get referred, just mentioned that he was going to get married - he's Muslim - and I think they assumed it was a pre-requisite for the marriage, but he didn't encounter any dfficultly, would assume it would be the same for women. Just remember an FSH level test will only tell you how your fertility is NOW - it can fall off a cliff or gradually decline - nothing guaranteed sadly... She may be perfectly fertile and then meet a man who isn't...
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 26 March 2011 - 18:40
Oh Sham, you have my sympathy! Had the three bed bug spraying sessions this time last year, and it felt like we were living ou of black bin bags in the living room for months, not days... Keep strong!
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 25 March 2011 - 19:16
Hi - if you have a resident's visa here, then by default you are not a resident in the UK and do not have to complete a form. There's lots of Q&As on the official website: http://www.census.gov.uk/ in for those people who still have a house there that they don't rent out (not your Mum's address!) that explains it all simply. So ignore it and don't worry!
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 25 March 2011 - 09:09
pinks - we feel your pain and you know the door is always open (and a bottle) at my house!!! How many times do I have to say this? ADOPT ME!!!!!! ;)
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 25 March 2011 - 08:09
JS, I have a sneaking suspicion you're probably still eating way more than you think and that what you're eating is high in sugar and fat. So perhaps you could write down everything that passes your lips for the next week just to make sure you are actually eating as little as you think you are. In my personal experience there's no weight loss surgery that cant be cheated, no matter how much a person wants to belive otherwise. I'm sorry if this sounds harsh, it not meant to, but to have had the op and to not be losing weight has to be faced up to truthfully. edited by DesertRose1958 on 24/03/2011 Strongly agree with DesertRose - be completely honest with yourself and write everything down for a couple of weeks, you'll probably be surprised what you are eating AND drinking. Really suggest doing this and then going to see a nutritionist who can help you make the best choices, and also make sure you are getting the correct macro and micro nutrients to keep your body in best of health. You may even be having days where you are not actually eating enough, hence putting your body into 'starvation mode'. Please, go and see a professional nutirionist/dietician who will have experience of your situation and be able to help you long term.
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 24 March 2011 - 20:57
Thanks girls - am feeling stronger!
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 24 March 2011 - 20:50
thank goodness you have EW :D ...and vodka (she says, carrying round a continually 'almost finished' small bottle of water :\: )
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 24 March 2011 - 20:48
miss balamory replied : oh! why do you have to hide the alcohol??! Muslims?? Worse, they're Christians but have taken the Pledge/think you're an alkie? I hadn't thought of that - that might actually be worse!
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 24 March 2011 - 20:47
Yes, eldery and strict. Luckily DH isnt practicing (born and brought up in London), but he does toe the line when they are around, so we all have too! It's a very long five weeks! <em>edited by pinks on 24/03/2011</em>
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 24 March 2011 - 11:50
- just off for a meeting but will be in touch this afternoon! <em>edited by pinks on 24/03/2011</em>
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 24 March 2011 - 11:42
Hi DebsDebs Do you have everything 'ready' and know what format, size and words you want in it (i.e. exactly how you want it to look)? I might be able to help if you do?
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 24 March 2011 - 11:37
Pleasure! I know so many people that don't do it, and the queue at the HMRC always looks worse than it is, but free money is free money! Even if I claim 10 quid back on a trip, it all adds up...
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 24 March 2011 - 11:26
If you are a resident of another country (i.e. have a visa in your passport), when you buy anything in the UK over about GBP 40-50 (different shops have different rules), ask for "tax free shopping" - lots of shops have the tax free logo in the window. Some places like out of town retail parks such as Bicester will print you a tax receipt there and then - you just have to sign it in front of them and fill the other details in later (date of entry and exit into the UK on this trip, passport number and permanent address in the UAE), and others like dpartment stores will ask you to take your receipts to customer services to process it. Then, when you get to the airport, [b'>before you check in,[/b'> (as they can ask to see the goods, though I dont know anyone that this has happened to, apart from electronics) you go to the HMRC counter, hand over your tax forms/receipts, and 10 days later the VAT (minus an admin charge) goes back on your credit card! You generally end up with 10% back, which for a few minutes of form filling-in, is a darn sight better than the government getting it!
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 24 March 2011 - 11:10
Everything I use is cheaper in the UK... You also get the buy 2 items and get a whole load of free stuff offers, samples from department store counters (go ask - they do give them to you) plus the added bonus of 10% tax back if you have your residence visa for here :)
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 21 March 2011 - 14:44
Helen Williams would be perfect. You'll find 101 recommendations for her on here. Good luck! www.counsellingdubai.com
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 20 March 2011 - 10:20
Also, does anyone know about outlet shopping in the UK. I went to Bicester Village (25 km away from Oxford) this summer, only because it was between our planned Stratford-Upon-Avon and Oxford route and we had a rental car that week (there is a train that goes from London to the outlet). Bicester is FABULOUS. I buy all my clothes and shoes (plus all my makeup and skincare when they have it in stock) there. They are also great with Tax Free shopping. You just have to make sure you are there when they open at 10am (then stop for a late lunch at Carluccios or Villandry!) <em>edited by pinks on 20/03/2011</em>
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 March 2011 - 09:39
I had the same problem and had to re-register. When I checked back, I had recieved an email advising me that due to 18 months inactivity on my account they were cancelling it. That would explain it! Have just reregistered, thanks all for the reminder / advice
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 March 2011 - 08:44
Tried to do it and got locked out saying I was putting in invalid password when I knew I wasn't but will try to re register. Thanks for the reminder. I always have the same problem trying to register... Not sure what to do!
pinks
714
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 March 2011 - 21:29
Hi - I use www.cottages4u.co.uk (used to be Hoseasons and Blakes) when I go back to the UK - you get choice of 3, 4 or 5 star properties, all over the UK and can see immediately if they are available. Have always had suberb weeks, and the website has a feedback section so you can see what previous 'tenants' have thought. Generally always fully furnished with linen, and well equiped kitchens.
 
 
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

6 Annoying Things Expats Hate Hearing

6 Annoying Things Expats Hate Hearing