Rickadon | ExpatWoman.com
 

Rickadon

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Latest post on 07 April 2016 - 11:22
Good luck with your decision, both countries have positives and negatives. But understand Canada is not ALL Snow and Cold. It can be 40+ C in the summer with the humidity in some places. We lived in Winnipeg for 5 years and it was not abnormal for it to be in the 40s without the humidity. No it doesn't last for 6 months but we don't all live in Igloos and freeze our bottoms off 12 months of the year either. Fresh air, open spaces are available in both Australia and Canada, you just need to decide if a true winter is something you would like to take on. PS: Canada has lovely beaches too ;):)
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Latest post on 21 February 2016 - 16:06
Rozi44 I had one in Dec, laparoscopically, I saw Dr Ibrihim at City Hostpital. He is very calm and very good at what he does. Laparoscopic surgery is his specialty. Go and see him and see what you think. I am very happy with the outcome. Good luck
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Latest post on 24 December 2015 - 10:19
If he is that young you can wait until you get here. But would suggest starting to look when you are settled as places can be tough at schools of choice. We started doing some planning and thinking in anticipation of getting offered a job as his interview/assessment went really well. I stayed behind with the kids to get the rest done. Though he spent many a late/sleepless night getting things done. It was summer for us so no sense the kids and I being here. I followed 2 months later. Like I mentioned it can vary. He wanted the 777 and that was the timing for the next available course. Good luck
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Latest post on 23 December 2015 - 16:14
Yellow g 2015 Good luck to you and your husband this is a big decision for both of you. I can depend on start date regarding course availability and the fleet he will be joining. My husband was offered the job 2 weeks after his interview/assessment and then only had 3 weeks to get ready to move but I know other pilots is was months. So not a hard a fast answer to that question, sorry. Definitely ask to see the Meydan villas as that will be where you end up, if you have children for sure. If you have children I would line up some school visits while you are here and maybe even start the application process. If not take the time to check out the city and get an idea of what is where.
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Latest post on 09 December 2015 - 10:54
I wouldn't want to fly Emirates after having read this thread! No worries AnonDubai these comments will get deleted so the facade will continue
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Latest post on 08 December 2015 - 19:12
Ok so from an EK wife that isn't drinking the Koolaid We have been her 9+ years loved most of it struggled with some of it but know that no where is perfect. Things have changed a lot in the last few years that make most EK pilots frustrated. My hubby still loves the job but is tired of being made to feel unappreciated (will probably get deleted again). The annoying things are harder to take when you are this far away from home and can't get time off together to be a family I know my children, and us, will benefit greatly from our time here, and already have, but as I have mentioned before this is not the Utopia some like to make people think. Dubai has it's issues as do most places in the world. Here a lot of things are hidden and swept under the carpet. There is a lot more going on than we know. It is getting more expensive to live and on the radio today they have announced that there will be a VAT phased in starting in 2018. A lot of the oil rich countries are realizing they need to do something else to add to make money to run their countries to the standards they have become use to. Just a few clarifications though, [i'>Ooopsiedaisy[/i'> we DO NOT get 50% off everywhere we go, staff travel is not as cheap as one would expect considering the seat would go empty (no revenue at all), we don't get eye coverage at all (not even the pilots), we are dictated where to live (most are ok with this, but still not our choice), EK does not pay 100% of school fees and bus fees (yes may not pay as much out of pocket as some but the assumption that we get EVERYTHING covered is a lie). We don't arrive in Dubai with a driver, a maid and an unlimited bank account as many assume, the staff work hard for the things they get. Remember these things are part of the renumeration package we signed on and if given the opportunity you would too and would expect it to be maintained to that standard. At the end of the day it isn't our fault and nor should we be made to feel guilty about what we get with the EK package. There are things we were promised in the package that are no longer being followed through with. As was mentioned our discount cards, WE pay for them every month. So if you want to do the leg work to organize a big group of people here in Dubai you too get get these benefits. Back to the[b'> OP's[/b'> questions most months will be min days off which is 8 or 9, the 777 guys are doing more and more of the turns (day/evening ones are ok it is the night ones that are a struggle). My hubby seems to be away most weekends then will get the odd month he is home every weekend. They can go east and then west one trip right after another, so are often tired from this. As is any experience it it what you make of it
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Latest post on 06 December 2015 - 21:58
OP do your research, this isn't the best place nor probably the worse depending on where you are coming from. Some of these posts will deleted by the am. I had two posts from yesterday deleted, only because I was honest about flying hours (love being censored). Some will drink the Koolaid and some are very disillusioned. This is not the utopia that you will be lead to believe it is by some. Anywhere is what you make it but when all they guys are flying like crazy and can't a day off together it can be tough to do things. The Meydan Heights do look like Council or low income housing from the outside, sorry but it is the truth. They are nice inside but when you drive by not exactly a place your are drawn into. Life has changed here over the years, more expensive and such. But at the end of the day it is choosing to live with what you 'can live with or without'. Driving, you don't get use to it, you have to tolerate it. Two totally different things. No one gets use to taking their life in their hands every time they go somewhere. And yes it can be that bad.
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Latest post on 05 December 2015 - 17:16
I dont have babies yet, but I know that I would much rather raise them in UAE then in North America. a few reasons: - there are no drugs here - its MUCH more difficult for a teen to get their hands on liquor - there are no topless girls on magazine covers in the lineup at the grocery store (except the odd cosmo at waitrose...), and no half naked men on billboards while driving along the high way - there is much less pressure on teens to do adult activities I think Dubai has a lot more flexibility in parenting then a lot of other countries! No matter where you go, someone will always judge the way you do it, but here there are sooooo many nationalities and cultures mixed together that you wont be the only strict parent if you decide not to let your daughter our to the mall at 13, and you also wont be the only parent in the school that allows their child to run around the neighbourhood alone at 8 if thats what you decide to do. Brie03 Drugs very much available here Alcohol easier than you think Don't need half naked people on magazines kids do what most kids do, send half naked selfies The belief that teenagers are more sheltered here isn't as spot on as believed. Don't get me wrong they aren't exposed to all that they would be in other countries but to believe they aren't exposed to the 'regular' teenage things is a misconception. There is a lot more going on amongst this age group than a lot of people realize, some supported by parents (alcohol). OP you are a VERY long way off from these concerns but please don't come thinking this Utopia. It is great with little ones, great weather to be out a lot, a lot of groups for little ones and often an abundance of moms looking for other moms to get together with. I was fortunate to be able to stay home with my little ones, a gift really, Dubai allowed this to happen. Life changes and you adjust to those changes. Again good luck
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Latest post on 07 November 2015 - 17:32
LaDIDa00 Local Hire means being hired living here in Dubai, opposed to being hired from overseas. I am a local hire for my job, usually have to be on Husband's or Father's Visa. Most likely only going to be salary without any other benefits
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Latest post on 07 November 2015 - 08:51
To be honest if it is a local hire and non-teaching, unless senior leadership position, it will most likely cover nothing beyond your salary. Especially with a GEMS school. Local Hire positions in Dubai rarely include anything except salary, some may but not the norm. If you need/want more be sure to get it in writing. Good luck
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Latest post on 19 October 2015 - 17:30
Great news but the big question is: Will it be enforced?? I live near a small shopping centre that has signs at the door stating No Skatebords, Scooter, Rollerblades or bikes inside. I can't tell you how many times I see kids with and without parents riding one of these inside. :(
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Latest post on 09 May 2015 - 09:56
Gigi Like others have said this is a very tough decision and one only you and your husband can really make, you know your son best. Our son was asked to repeat FS2 and yr 1 but we refused, he is a very bright boy just took a little longer to meet some of the British expectations, for us the social implications were too big and are very glad 8 years later that we stuck with our gut and didn't repeat him. I know there were some that thought we were making a mistake, one teacher even went as far as saying "he will always be 'one' of those kids who always needs support, if you don't have him repeat". He had some support with handwriting until year 3 but excelled every where else. There are studies that say that children that repeat in primary don't finish secondary/high school and I have seen this happen in my family. Ultimately at the end of the day you know your child and what is best for him. Best of luck it isn't an easy decision, just know you are doing what you know is best for him which ever way you go.
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Latest post on 30 November 2014 - 21:15
Tallybalt Have you ever been to Canada?
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Latest post on 27 November 2014 - 11:49
There is a kiosk at Mercato Mall upstairs that does them as well. I get all of mine there and they are reasonably priced with varying sizes.
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Latest post on 13 November 2014 - 10:17
Guinness2 Regardless of skin colour there is a HUGE difference between a qualified Nanny and a Housemaid. One is educated, as Oopsiedaisy mentions, to care for young children and their needs the other is someone that is capable of cleaning and keeping a household organized. The two are not the same at all. <em>edited by Rickadon on 13/11/2014</em>
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Latest post on 15 September 2014 - 22:07
InWhySee At this point hotels are probably booked up and very expensive. Haven't looked personally but know friends that have and a 'run of the mill' hotel in Yas is asking 3000 AED/night. The hotels know it is EID so tend to jack up prices. Probably best to directly contact hotels for deals. Rixos is the all inclusive in RAK. There is only one pool area and it isn't big enough to accommodate the number of people staying there. Unfortunately we encountered a number of people more interested in taking advantage of the all inclusive booze then being considerate to others staying there. Happy searching
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Latest post on 18 August 2014 - 06:54
Business Bay I know numerous people that have tried to work with EK accommodations and they are far from 'reasonably flexible' if anything they are very rigid and not at all helpful. The ones that I know that have been moved are last minute moves and not necessarily to nicer villas but to ones closer their children schools. I am guessing you haven't actually had to deal with them or if you have and had a positive experience you are very lucky and of the minority Why don't you go back to EK and renegotiate? They're reasonably flexible about moving (pilots') families around if they're not happy. I reckon it would be a big mistake to move out of company accommodation. Rents in the "real world" are sky high!
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Latest post on 09 July 2014 - 01:17
tdot77 Check out the jobs section here on EW there is a position posted for a grade 1 teacher at American School of Dubai. I believe they pay well. Worth checking out. I know they were looking for substitute teachers at one point as well. Best of luck
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Latest post on 28 June 2014 - 07:44
Leena125 Just to add Ramadan starts tomorrow (Sun) most restaurants will be closed until at least 6:30 or later depending on the timing of sunset. I only add this as when my children were under 6 waiting that late for dinner wasn't easy. If your children are accustom to eating later, ignore me :-) Enjoy
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Latest post on 21 June 2014 - 05:47
Those positions are for the Secondary school. Pretty sure the primary school is closing still.
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Latest post on 04 June 2014 - 16:46
Whilst-UK While-North American (sure it is used else where but not going to assume :-) ) Same same really.
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Latest post on 01 May 2014 - 14:50
Thanks Sarahlou123 Perfect!! Much appreciated! Aarika
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Latest post on 01 May 2014 - 14:39
Hi We are going tomorrow and all I can find is that the doors open at 4 and the concert starts at 5:30. I believe Maverick is first billing but not sure if there are other acts before him. Anyone have more insight into the actual line up and potential time frame? Thanks <em>edited by Rickadon on 01/05/2014</em>
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Latest post on 27 March 2014 - 11:36
Sorry didn't mean to 'dislike' you. Was trying to be cheeky/nosey and see who had! Though I am liking this new feature. Sometimes it is nice to be able to give support (like) a poster without having to write something.
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Latest post on 24 March 2014 - 12:02
Hi Gorobattie I don't think so. Our youngest started school in 2007 at age 4 and it was covered. Unless things have changed though I don't know how they can as the law is children start school in FS 2 at age 4. Sorry can't be any more help.
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Latest post on 24 March 2014 - 10:24
Gorobattie EK starts paying at age 4, FS2 in the British Curriculum. I think it is called KS2 in the American system. FS age 4 is the first expected year of children in the BC to start school. They have to be 4 before the school cut off date (often August 31st of that year). Even if your child turn 4 before the end of FS1 school year they will not contribute. Bongo74 you will have to pay for all three of them this year and next year FS2 will be covered for your oldest. Hope that helps.
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Latest post on 14 March 2014 - 13:17
Hi Irooni DESS/DESC and JESS are highly sought after schools here in Dubai. I know that DESC has about 300 children on the wait list for year 7 for Sept and 30 + for other year groups. And we all know that the wait list at JESS is often very long as well. Your statement below leads one to think these schools are 'below par'. I may be misunderstanding this statement. I think she would be happy at either school. As has been mentioned on here many times schools are a personal decision, it can be difficult to make this decision based on what others think/feel. [i'>[b'>She is not really keen on either as the children go to a top prep school in London, which is why she has stayed there until now. Unfortunately her husband is not keen on spending much more than the EK allowance on the schools and these two schools are her only options.[/b'> [/i'> I can't answer your questions in regards to DESS or JESS but have a child at DESC and she is thriving, happy, learning and being pushed to her full potential. Honestly I would hope your friend would be happy with either school though it sounds like she is very attached to and happy with the school they are already at. So it is hard to say if these schools will ever meet her wants/desires for her children's educational journey. Logistics of where they will live changes things a bit too. Best of luck to her. She is fortunate to have the decision to make as many don't edited by Rickadon on 14/03/2014 <em>edited by Rickadon on 14/03/2014</em>
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Latest post on 04 March 2014 - 06:25
Contact Safa School. I know they had a little guy a few years ago with Down Syndrome. They had a plan in place between the family, the school and the teacher. Worth getting in touch with them and seeing if they can help.
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Latest post on 22 February 2014 - 18:15
It is a rumour. They will move Jumeriah and Umm Squiem people first anyway, due to the rental costs.
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Latest post on 20 January 2014 - 12:57
Just wanted to add, as it has been brought up, I am white blonde haired and blue eyed, my daughter looks like me and I still get asked. My son looks more like hubby with brown hair and brown eyes, as is evident by seeing hubby's passport picture. My children have been asked if I am their mom and where is their dad, they look at the guy kinda stunned as in: 'of course this my mom and my dad is working' but they are kids and what is normal to them doesn't always seem normal to others. It is a precaution and can seem like a hassle (trust me I have rolled my eyes a few times when asked) but having a letter is very easy and saves that hassle. <em>edited by Rickadon on 20/01/2014</em>
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Latest post on 20 January 2014 - 07:50
Sometimes I get asked and sometimes I don't. I have traveled with and without a letter but started keeping one with our passports, just saves a hassle (as some costumes/immigrations agents like to show who is boss). Our letter states my husbands name and the names of our children. It also states that he is aware I am traveling by myself with them. I also have a copy of his passport and residence visa attached. There is no date as I was told by a US costumes person it was ok to be opened ended. It is not notarized either. I am Canadian and therefore travel on a Canadian passport so think it more depends on the agent you encounter. Have only been asked for said letter in the US or Canada. Hope this helps. <em>edited by Rickadon on 20/01/2014</em>
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Latest post on 04 December 2013 - 17:25
Goldilocks You brought back memories of my first year of nursing clinical. I cared for many a patient in a CPM, what a pain they can be :-). Maybe try the Hospitals in particular their physiotherapy departments? Hope you have some luck <em>edited by Rickadon on 04/12/2013</em>
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Latest post on 01 December 2013 - 21:23
My daughter has an American Girl doll. We didn't find much here but Ikea use to sell a doll's bed. It fit her doll perfectly. I don't know if they still have them but worth a try. Goodluck
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Latest post on 30 November 2013 - 20:55
Fatimasaq It is never easy to have your child go through surgery but sometimes it is for the best. If he isn't eating and loosing weight then sounds like it is the right choice for him. Though not knowing your child or his medical issues I can't speak for his medical needs. Best of luck
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Latest post on 30 November 2013 - 09:27
Hi Fatimasaq I have cared for many children with G-tubes. They are very safe as long as monitored properly and kept clean. There is a fear that it can be pulled out but that doesn't happen as easily as assumed.
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Latest post on 27 November 2013 - 09:57
It is Horizon School (British curriculum). Though imagine most others will announce and/or be off too as Horizon is often late in confirming last min days off.
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Latest post on 11 November 2013 - 10:00
Tru Blu Very curious indeed! I know there were two children that waited until very late but were placed in the end. There were some that didn't get the school of their choice but did get places. Also there were some that left the country but that wasn't due to school placements. I agree if you want a [i'>very academic based school[/i'> Horizon isn't the place to be. If you want a great community, that nurtures your child to be a positive part of society then yes this is a great choice. Best of luck to the OP and anyone searching for the right school. edited by Rickadon on 11/11/2013 <em>edited by Rickadon on 11/11/2013</em>
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Latest post on 11 November 2013 - 05:32
Tru Blu I am not sure where you got your information from or who you have spoken to but I am a mom of one of the children from year 6 last year. All of the children secured places in the end. Yes some had to wait longer but that was more to do with the awful way places are granted here in Dubai then just Horizon. There were 4 or 5 that secured places at Dubai College last year, about the same that do every year on average. At the end of the day Dubai College isn't for everyone. BarshaLady 1 No Horizon is not a HIGHLY academic school but those who have chosen this school have done so partially because of this. If you want your child pushed academically then this isn't the school for him/her. If you want your child to expand on what they are learning at home, to be kind, responsible positive contributors to society then yes this is a school for you and your child. As I have said before picking a school for your child is a very personal decision, one you have to make for reasons that suit you, your child and your family. Every school has it's challenges/issues you just have to be able to make them work best of your family. My oldest has moved onto Secondary and is blooming! Goodluck edited by Rickadon on 11/11/2013 <em>edited by Rickadon on 11/11/2013</em>
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Latest post on 08 November 2013 - 09:21
Unless it has moved, it is gone. There is a new restaurant in the space it was in on Umm Al Sheif (sp?). Not sure what happened.
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Latest post on 30 October 2013 - 10:53
Hi Chickadee2 As Feefmick says it is doable. Depends on where you will be living to make it really work though. If you are close to DESC could drop the oldest early and still get the youngest to DESS on time. If you aren't living close DESC then the bus for your oldest may be the best option. There is a late bus for after school activities so will make life a little more manageable. Good luck and welcome to Dubai
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Latest post on 17 May 2013 - 09:58
Hi Lillybucket Any luck? We are about to bring home a bearded dragon and my biggest concern is getting her live food. She is eating veggies but know this won't be enough. Thanks
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Latest post on 12 May 2013 - 21:17
Hi Alyna FS1 and FS2 get out at 1:10 Sun to Thursday. The rest of the year groups get out at 2:20 Sunday to Wednesday and 1:20 on Thursday. Hope that helps.
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Latest post on 01 May 2013 - 11:03
As Cherry Ripe mentions, logistics can be a nightmare so if kids are at schools close to each other and close to home, makes life easier.
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Latest post on 01 May 2013 - 10:32
Lilly72 Tough to give a simple answer to this question. As you will soon discover school placements are taken very personally here. Both are great schools from my understanding. Lots of parents happy to have their child go to either. If one is closer to where you will be living then that would be a deciding factor for me...given both are equal in providing your child what he/she wants/needs. If you have had a look around at both and feel one better suits your child then I would, personally, go for that one. If you are keen on DESC in the end I would pursue them. Communicate with them frequently. I have found over the years when it comes to school spots "the squeaky wheel gets the oil". Goodluck, schools spots here can be very distressing.
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Latest post on 24 April 2013 - 16:55
Hi Tru Blu Just an FYI Horizon has three classes per year group above FS1 so only 2 extra classes not 3 or 4 as mentioned below. I appreciate your frustration with this. We struggled with spots for primary and have just gone through the secondary rounds (what a pain). Best of luck. Keep bugging the school you are interested in, this seems to work.
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Latest post on 04 March 2013 - 22:59
Hi Sorry for late reply. Class sizes, as I mentioned, depends on venue. We live out in Silicon Oasis and the classes aren't too big during the week. I would say Saturdays would be the busiest day and therefore bigger classes. My kids have never had more then 10 in their group. Right now my DD has 6 max and my DS 8. That being said my children are 11 and 9 so can't speak first hand on how engaging the instructors are for little ones. Though when I did watch the younger age groups they appeared to manageable sized group and I think sometimes there were two instructors. As well the kids were participating appropriately. Sorry, not sure if that really answers your questions. Good luck with your decision.
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Latest post on 03 March 2013 - 08:05
Hi Britchick4 My kids have swam with Speedo for a couple of years now. We are happy with the instruction and classes. Class size can depend on venue and day of the week. Sat tends to be their busiest day. I have been happy with the instruction they have received. HTH
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Latest post on 25 February 2013 - 10:49
Hi Mumcurious Halifax is home for me, beautiful city! Are you staying downtown? If so lots of walking around to see the historic sites. The waterfront is lovely with some shops and restaurants. They have a Harbour Hopper which gives a tour of the city on land and in the water. Citadel Hill, old fort, is worth a visit. They still fire off a cannon at noon each day. Will you have a car? A drive down the South Shore is worth it as well. There is a lovely Farmers Market it is open all week but the busiest day with the most vendors is Sat. If it is raining there is a place called Discovery Centre your son would enjoy it is on Barrington St. If you want more let me know will post my email for you then delete it. Hope that helps. The two coast are very different but both lovely to see
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Latest post on 09 February 2013 - 12:40
Good luck SueB! What should be simple here never is!
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Latest post on 09 February 2013 - 10:20
Hi SueB My sister is coming in March on a CatC so I just double checked it and it doesn't say Standby on hers either. Maybe as Angela suggests recheck what was booked. I know very annoying! On another note are we able to sort out the visas for them here or does she have to do it in Canada? What a headache this has become! Good luck