RuthM | ExpatWoman.com
 

RuthM

RuthM
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 18 February 2013 - 18:45
I think there is no good bank here. We are with HSBC and Emirates NBD. We recently asked HSBC for a bankers cheque from our dollar account in dollars. Three people told us this was not possible. After a long frustrating discussion we managed to get them to look into it and two hours later they finally managed to figure out this simple task is possible. That said at least they called us back to inform us, but what an ordeal. We have only had our account with Emirates NBD for a few months. Originally we asked to set up a dollar, dirham and sterling account. We have a dollar, dirham and euro account. Upon asking if the euro account can be changed to a sterling account which we originally requested there was no apology, no admittance of a mistake we were simply told no not possible. Then we asked if we can get a GBP sterling account. They told us we can open a dollar account online. We must have said STERLING GBP POUNDS UK a hundred times and they simply did not get it. Lack of knowledge of worldly currencies to me is regarding a bad thing in a bank. So I am convinced, such as everything in Dubai, all the banks are staffed by untrained idiots that don't have a clue what they are doing. If you want to choose a bank I suggest writing down all the bank names on a piece of paper. Close your eyes and point to one.
RuthM
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 18 February 2013 - 08:52
Settings -> Mail, Contacts, Calendar -> Bottom of screen [Contacts'> -> Sort Order also Settings -> Mail, Contacts, Calendar -> Bottom of screen [Contacts'> -> Display Order It's weird if you have it sorted by first name but displayed by surname!
RuthM
1042
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 17 February 2013 - 21:42
DH loves his hair more than any grown man should. I am not going to say how much he pays as it is extortionate. But he has cut, colour (seriously), wet shave and beard trim. He also seems to book a massage in as well. Very metrosexual. But I am deeply disappointed as they have never waxed his ears or nose hair. Now I feel he is doubly ripped off - I will be having words!
RuthM
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 17 February 2013 - 19:35
I have the iPad and use iBooks, Kindle and Kobo. You can download the apps for free on the iPad. Buying from iBooks is easiest and the storage in the cloud is very user friendly with them. But if a book is not available from them or cheaper on Kindle or Kobo then I'll buy from there. Not sure if the Kindle or Nook have the function to use other stores perhaps someone else can answer that.
RuthM
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 17 February 2013 - 19:12
Only by US standards, the US Food and Drug Administration requires that the solution contains a minimum 35% of alcohol. Other places in the world do not have such stringent requirements. Of course there is some debate as to whether alcohol free vanilla extract is as good as the extract in alcohol solution. You had previously posted the link to a site (http://www.blackpodvanilla.com.au/about) that sells halal vanilla extract. Did you ever purchase this? Was it as good as the "real" thing? I'm sorry I never ordered it as I found some at the shop I mentioned at MoE. The one I got there seems pretty good, it's on an earlier post.
RuthM
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 16 February 2013 - 23:59
The Real Thing actually should have about 35% alcohol in it, which is why it's unobtainable round here :( Only by US standards, the US Food and Drug Administration requires that the solution contains a minimum 35% of alcohol. Other places in the world do not have such stringent requirements. Of course there is some debate as to whether alcohol free vanilla extract is as good as the extract in alcohol solution.
RuthM
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 16 February 2013 - 22:09
Real vanilla extract (not the artificial stuff) can be found in Tavola in MoE. It is on the counter inside the shop (which looks from the outside like it is just a home appliances shop). It's also alcohol free. http://www.malloftheemirates.com/en/store/shopping/tavola.html
RuthM
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 14 February 2013 - 12:43
There will be a great 2 hour show or movie or dinner... however, the only thing that some of you will definilty remember AND bring up in this public forum is the crying baby who has not behaved for a few minutes. Is that too hard to deal with? especially in a country with a high rate of children? What is your definiation of a well behaved child? Yes it certainly is. If you are going to see a movie and you miss several minutes due to a baby crying or some toddler running around then it is an issue. Maybe not an issue over dinner but at a movie or a show it is not acceptable. Simple solution, parents should take their kids to kid friendly movies at kid friendly times. Surely this is a better idea all round. The kids will be happier seeing a movie before their bedtime so they won't be too tired to enjoy it and a movie that might actually interest them and not scare them and the people that want to go to kid free adult movies can do so later in the evening. Problem solved. As for well behaved children, ones that don't run across my table while I'm eating would be a good start. Or run up and down the aisle of a plane whilst it is landing and their mother is on the mobile phone (yes seriously, air hostess had to endanger her life by having to put this child in a seat and the mother still refused to switch her phone off - anywhere else in the world she would be put on no fly list). The problem with this country is that money = being able to do what the **** you like. From the ski slope with people skiing straight down recklessly endangering others, to the road with people speeding at sometimes twice the speed limit and switching lanes with no regard for the safety of other cars, to the cinema where selfish parents force their children to sit through a 3 hour violent drama at 10pm because 'they' want to see it even though they themselves spend half the movie on their mobile phone, to restaurants where parents leave the maids to look after the kids and the kids just run riot. In other countries this would not be acceptable and such people would be removed from the establishment they are ruining. But here the staff are too afraid to say anything and people just get away with anything they like.
RuthM
1042
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 14 February 2013 - 10:03
No sons... yet, we are hoping for a baby soon. DH intends to change his name to mine so hopefully they won't be able to find his brother if it comes down to it! It is an interesting point though, I can't believe they would divide a mans estate to an irresponsible gambler. Although in BIL's case he talks a good talk about 'investments' but just doesn't have a single asset after working for 30 years . Which is quite an achievement considering that due to the nature of his work he has also never had a single rent, gas, electricity etc. bill to pay and his idea of a social life is sitting on the internet making risky share deals. He spends a lot of time tring to find out what DH is earning and how much money he has. Before we married he had keys to DH house and went to pick something up. When DH got home he also found his payslips and bank statements had moved. We are looking to set up offshore accounts in my name to try and mitigate the risks and hassle of accounts here being frozen. But life insurance is the key thing we don't want BIL to get.
RuthM
1042
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 14 February 2013 - 09:46
So far nothing. But he has arranged dinner with his boss tonight, how romantic!
RuthM
1042
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 13 February 2013 - 20:45
ooo cat websites ofc you must have: http://icanhas.cheezburger.com/lolcats My favourite lolcat (unfortunately no longer on i can has cheezburger): http://weknowmemes.com/2012/04/i-are-dunecat/
RuthM
1042
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 13 February 2013 - 14:00
Probably. I think the OP was looking for a no kids option. Frankly kids should not be at the cinema late at night let alone watching movies like the Hobbit which frankly will be beyond boring for many young children, hence they will become disruptive. It is unfortunate there are so many badly behaved children in the UAE, I recall two children running along the sill next to a table where I was eating (the sill the same level as the table) and knocking my drink over (which fortunately was nearly empty) and treading on my cutlery which their maids ignored them and their parents sat on another table oblivious to what was going on. It cannot be blamed on the children that certain selfish parents think it is acceptable their child is brought up by untrained, underpaid domestic staff. But others should not have to suffer for it. I just feel sorry for the responsible parents of well behaved kids that have no option but to let their children mix with the riff raff.
RuthM
1042
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 13 February 2013 - 12:56
They're not permitted in the Gold/Platinum seats at Vox and Reel cinemas.
RuthM
1042
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 13 February 2013 - 12:50
Depends what you like, here are a few of mine: Movies: http://trailers.apple.com http://www.imdb.com http://www.rottentomatoes.com http://www.empireonline.com http://www.hollywood.com http://www.filmsite.org http://www.film.com http://www.totalfilm.com http://www.rogerebert.com http://www.firstshowing.net http://www.moviemistakes.com Science and Tech: http://www.the-scientist.com http://www.cnet.com http://web.mit.edu/newsoffice/ http://www.sciencedaily.com http://www.macrumors.com http://techland.time.com http://www.nanotech-now.com http://www.theregister.co.uk http://phys.org http://www.techradar.com http://www.wired.co.uk http://www.newscientist.com http://thedailywtf.com/default.aspx http://www.imore.com http://modmyi.com http://www.scientificamerican.com http://www.funkyspacemonkey.com http://techcrunch.com http://appleinsider.com Travel: http://www.expedia.co.uk http://www.tripadvisor.com Video: http://www.youtube.com https://vimeo.com News: http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/ http://edition.cnn.com http://www.forbes.com http://www.bloomberg.com General: http://dictionary.reference.com http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page Humour: http://www.thedailymash.co.uk http://www.cracked.com
RuthM
1042
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 13 February 2013 - 11:59
Always get a receipt every time the cleaner comes. This is vital, because if later it turns out the cleaner is working illegally you can get into a lot of trouble. But if you have receipts from a company for her employment you can demonstrate you employed her in good faith. Someone I know had a gardener who left his company and said he was working for another company would he like to keep him on? He said yes and never thought to get a receipt for the work he was doing with his new company. A few months later the gardener was found to be without a visa. The person I knew was arrested for employing someone illegally. After many hours at the police station he was permitted to leave (with the help of a local friend). But he had to attend court some time later and ended up with an AED 50,000 fine. So always get a company receipt.
RuthM
1042
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 13 February 2013 - 11:13
Odd question here. Is it possible for my DH to disown his family under Sharia law? His brother is a gambling addict that has blown all his money on spread betting and made a good dent in his own mother's life savings, coerced from her with some unpleasant bullying tactics. DH is barely on speaking terms with him apart from Christmas and Birthday cards and text messages. If something did happen to DH I can see he would fight to get his hands on every penny he could so that he can make more crazy 'investments' and it's just not a battle I want to have with him (frankly I'd probably murder him, seriously the man is pure evil just thinking about him makes me angry). It would be nice if we could circumvent him even having any involvement whatsoever if something happened to DH.
RuthM
1042
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 12 February 2013 - 12:04
Yes we went back to Alvorada 1 after being unsuccessful in being able to get the cat scanned for microchip. We met your friend at the gate and unfortunately upon looking further up the road found the cat's collar and tag. It was very sad but at least she knows what happened to him now. It looked like he took quite a hit so thankfully he probably went quickly and did not suffer too much. I just question why people feel the need to speed around the ranches so much, it is a 40kph speed limit for a reason. There are not only pets around but also children. I wish that the police or Emaar would set up a speed trap and deal with all the speeding drivers (particularly taxi drivers) they could take in tens of thousands of dirhams in just a few hours. Whilst they are there they can drink test all the people coming out the golf club who think it's okay as they're only driving a little way up the road - the road where there are children skateboarding outside Alma. It's sad to see a loved pet killed by insensitive people. My thoughts are with the owners who must have had a lot of tears last night.
RuthM
1042
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 11 February 2013 - 22:31
Found the owner in Alvorada 1. So sad, but at least they can have some closure. Poor kitty.
RuthM
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 11 February 2013 - 21:15
Thanks! Metallica pit booked! And now I see Gn'R are playing!!! We're hoping for a baby soon so I am trying to get in as many gigs as we can while we can!
RuthM
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 11 February 2013 - 21:07
I just can't believe someone would run over an animal and leave it there. We are heading back now so will be dropping it at security in about 20-30mins.
RuthM
1042
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 11 February 2013 - 20:25
So sorry I really don't know much about Nikon. Except all the forums seem to be raving about their entry level full frame and you seem to get more bang for your buck. With safari we took a Canon 400D with a 70-200mm f/4L USM IS and a Canon 40D with the 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM. We got some amazing shots despite my photography knowledge being limited back then. I have since replaced the 400D with the 40D and the 40D with a 7D. Our safari was mostly nighttime (dusk and dawn) and those lenses coped admirably with our amateurish skills combined with the low light. This is something to be aware of on safari a lot of things may be low light which is where the f number can be so important. I can post some of our safari shots when I get home. Another poster mentioned they have all Nikon so they may be able to advise further. Sorry I can't be offer help.
RuthM
1042
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 11 February 2013 - 12:44
Are your teeth impacted? Are they still in the jawbone or in the soft tissue? If they are impacted (i.e. not fully erupted) and especially if they are in the jawbone (this will show on x-ray) then I would forget a surgical dentist, go to an oral surgeon. They will take all four out under general anaesthetic, this should be done with an anaesthetist present preferably in a hospital rather than a dentist surgery. Otherwise then they can be done under local with a surgical dentist, but then I wouldn't do all four at once as you will be in a considerable amount of discomfort. Usually your dentist would refer you to another dentist or an oral surgeon, it is very odd that he hasn't. Be aware that having wisdom teeth removed whilst a minor surgical can cause problems if done incorrectly dry socket or even worse damage to the sinuses, so finding a good surgeon is important. Sorry can't recommend anyone in Dubai, I go back to the UK for any medical procedure where possible. If you can travel to the UK I can recommend some very good surgeons there. <em>edited by RuthM on 11/02/2013</em>
RuthM
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 11 February 2013 - 12:19
If you have a new passport number they are unlikely to be able to link it to you in any case. They can't stop every John Smith that comes through especially when chasing for 80AED. Just a note if you have a new passport.
RuthM
1042
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 11 February 2013 - 11:50
Had the Canon 300/350 and 400D. Then a 40D and now a 7D, plan on a 5D for the future. Would say if I could go back in time I might consider Nikon as they seem to be better value for money, especially once you want to go up to full frame. But if you want Canon then the 600D would probably be your best bet. Don't get taken in by lens package deals, lenses are for life they are worth spending money on. You will keep your lenses as you upgrade your camera. Package deals often promise two or more lenses with at least one with a huge focal length which can be useless if you then have a high f number and no image stabilisation. These lenses are also often plastic instead of glass and even can have plastic mounts instead of metal mounts. I recommend the EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 USM as a good all purpose lens for family shots, portraits and walkabout to start you off. It will take you all the way up to the 7D and you'll only need to replace it if you then go full frame. In fact the 7D plus this lens is the perfect keen amateur kit imo. Long focal lengths are more expensive. the 70-200mm f/4L IS USM is a great lens (my most used lens) but it is pricey. It all depends on what you want to photograph, I wouldn't bother with a long focal length just for the sake of it. I had a walkabout lens for two years and only bought the 70-200mm when I went on safari (as well as an EF 100-400 f/4.5-5.6L IS USM). That said it is now my favourite lens! Also don't be afraid to consider used lenses, people who have upgraded to full frame will have to sell their EF-S lenses so there can be some good bargains to be found.
RuthM
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 09 February 2013 - 01:57
how far in to Oman are you going? We have gone many times, with baby and dogs and lots of packing, its not a big deal at all. You stop and do feeds and nappy changes as needed, bring toys etc. Lots to see on the way too, so not a boring drive. Id say going with a baby is probably easier then bigger kids, If I took my two now we would get the endless... 'are we nearly there yet....?' You've taken dogs to Oman? How hard is it to take them over the border/back again? Does it require a lot of paperwork and hassle? Sorry a bit off topic.
RuthM
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 07 February 2013 - 18:21
Thanks for suggestion. It looked great until it said 1-1 have to be a member. I have emailed them but if that is the case will continue searching as am not joining a gym in order to have a single 1-1 session every week. Their loss.
RuthM
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 07 February 2013 - 17:35
There are definitely children in the playground in our compound, Alvorada in Arabian Ranches. Alternatively it could be some kind of wild animals judging by the extremely loud yelling and shrieking. At one point I was convinced a certain high volume child was being murdered by the sound he was making. He must have a sore throat by now making those kind of sounds. Forgive me for being a moan but our house in the UK backed onto a village primary school which was quieter than this during break times and after school when the playground was open to all. I actually enjoyed the background buzz of children playing. Expat kids clearly learn a different way to communicate, akin to a bunch of wild apes it seems. Although it does seem to be one particularly obnoxious child making most of the noise. Time to move I think. <em>edited by RuthM on 07/02/2013</em>
RuthM
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 07 February 2013 - 14:08
Earlier the better. Even if it's just to sit in the chair and see the surgery. Most dentist's will just count their teeth and hopefully make it a fun experience. Even take them along to your own appointments for the experience. If you wait until there is a problem or they need cleaning then they will just associate every visit to the dentist with discomfort.
RuthM
1042
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 05 February 2013 - 20:17
Personally, I would not draw up a handbook or contract with 'them'. I would give them a list of chores to do and approximate hours, but nothing hard and fast. Rules are strange to a lot of maids, and they appear to like to be controlled. For many of them, as women, they have been 'controlled' all of their lives, especially those from the Sub-Con. They sometimes work better with more constraints. Kindness is a great thing, but firmness must come with it, and you may find that many times that they are being co-erced by family members. I would also make it clear that they should not commit or ask about illegal acts. An employment handbook is a list of rules and regulations of employment. It is guidelines of your rights and what an employer expects from you. Put it in writing then when she needs to take a week off a the drop of a hat for her third cousin twice removed's funeral you can say "No, bereavement leave is only for immediate family and in order to take a weeks leave you must give two weeks notice". It is not just for the employee's benefit but also for the employer to be able to reference to it every time they are asked something unreasonable and hopefully get asked less unreasonable things in the future. 90% of expats are not aware of all the laws and regulations here. One of the things DH has had to do for his professional post graduate educated staff is give them a list of the more obscure rules in the UAE. So how can you expect a maid to be aware of these? Then she's not permitted to ask about them if something is legal or not?! I work extra hours all the time and I am not paid for them. I am systematically called in when they need me or called to Saudi at the last minute. Argh.... DCC, Maid contracts do not fall under the labour law you know. It is an entirely different thing. Ahh sorry I thought what you did was employment and what the maid did was employment. Must be mistaken. Both are employment indeed but not the same category of employment as per the UAE Law. Until this changes, I am not doing anything "outside the law" if I don't fix an OT rate for my maid or give her the notice she is due. Voila! Its funny how quickly people who come here forget their roots. Yes, you are correct! I mean, so many Western expats come here and hire maids yet that is so foreign in their cultures! I mean, like, you'd never get a live-in maid in the Ukay! While I was growing up in London we had a live in nanny. She even came on holiday with us. We had her until I started proper primary school (age six/seven I think). Then I had a babysitter after school and later I went to boarding school. My father had a live in nanny, a maid/cook and a gardener when he grew up (three live in staff). His sisters were very sickly as babies and required round the clock care and he lived in a large mansion in Yorkshire with a clock-tower and servants quarters attached, I believe the nanny lived in the house but the maid/cook and gardener (a married couple) lived in the quarters below the clocktower which were self contained. He too went to boarding school later, although his sisters did not. My mother had a live in maid/cook and a house boy when she was growing up. Myself and my father both grew up in the UK. All staff had a full and proper employment contracts the same as any other employee at that time. My mother's family's staff did not have such employment contracts they were not deemed necessary. But then she grew up in apartheid South Africa where I think the belief was those 'inferior' people could not cope with rules and regulations and it is best to just tell them what you want done when you want it done. After much condemnation by the rest of the world the apartheid in South Africa was abolished and it was realised that those inferior people were in fact equal to others and able to cope with employment with contracts, structure and such like. Any person I employ will have the same terms and conditions of their employment than that of any other person regardless of race, nationality or education.
RuthM
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 04 February 2013 - 13:03
Any contract that two parties enter into freely is legally binding. I am having this debate myself however and have decided rather than a contract I am going to go with an 'Employee Handbook'. Yes you can tell her what to do but simply writing it all down, especially laws regarding adultery, sleepovers leave etc. it is helpful to be written down. Telling her is all well and good but she can't possibly remember anything. Can anyone here tell me the contents of the employee handbook at their company. Also I am putting in something about grievance. I want to be sure if she is unhappy she will tell us about it rather than running away without us knowing what was bothering her. I am probably going to get accused of all sorts of things here, but to me, a maid is an employee, no different to any other employee at any other company. I want an employee handbook that covers everything it can not only for her, but for me, so that if a question comes along that I haven't previously covered I don't have to make it all up as I go along. There is nothing worse than working for someone who changes their tune from one week to the next. Therefore I am trying to make this booklet as full and informative as possible, something not only she can reference to but I can as well. I am working on this right now. Here are the things I have noted I think need to be included for some ideas. It is by no means a final draft, some items are just pointers, I am checking with others to see what they do before finalising and fleshing out. The lady we are hoping to employ can read and write English very well, this may not be suitable for someone who cannot. Employee Handbook for Domestic Staff No sleepovers Female visitors permitted/ not permitted with agreement ??? No advances Paid Salary(monthly/weekly/four weekly) - into bank account Cash Allowance (weekly) Christmas? Friday off Public holiday off? Working week/hours state? End of year bonus - discretionary Contract hours state Overtime rate p/h 30 days annual leave a year (5 weeks) Notice for annual leave For a days leave one day notice For a weeks leave two weeks notice For two weeks leave four weeks notice For more than two weeks leave eight weeks notice Internet Usage - illegal websites etc. Mobile phone usage Looking after dogs No pork permitted in house Travel with Employer - lump sum payment, extra working hours Confidentiality Health Insurance Termination Extenuating circumstances Grievance Death or bereavement leave Medical leave - More than 3 days will require doctors certificate Items in room owned by Employer not to be removed from premises Laws in UAE adultery, alcohol etc. [b'>Appendices[/b'> - Confidentiality Agreement - Job Description - Inventory of maids room owned by Employer - items not to be removed from the house 1 No. Mac Mini, keyboard, mouse and power supply 1 No. 26" television wall mounted 1 No. Du box 1 No. bed 1 No. bedside stand 1 No. rug 1 No. bathroom mat 3 No. duvet covers 6 No. pillow cases 3 No. bedsheets 2 No. pillows 1 No. duvet Bicycle? 1 No. safety deposit box for personal items - Timetable for week <em>edited by RuthM on 04/02/2013</em>
RuthM
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 04 February 2013 - 11:32
No idea with Australia, our two came from UK it was about GBP 1200 for two medium sized dogs in separate crates with Emirates - we arranged everything ourselves. Adults cannot share a crate. Dubai Kennels and Cattery should be able to advise. http://www.dkc.ae/what-we-do/global-relocations-pet-exports.php There are three things I think you need to do in the UAE: Vaccinations - these need to be done by law in the UAE anyway, but get a rabies serology test as soon as the rabies is done then keep up to date with the vaccinations so the animal will be ready to fly at any moment, not sure if Australia has a pet passport scheme. Crate - The shipping fee goes on volumetric weight and will vary by a huge amount based on the size of the crate the animal is shipped in. There are guidelines regarding how much space they need but they should be able to stand up and turn around comfortably. Guidelines on crate size http://www.iata.org/whatwedo/cargo/live-animals/pets/Pages/index.aspx Veterinary Check - They need to be checked that they are 'fit to fly' normally within 30 days of flying, in the UK this is a certificate issued by DEFRA in Dubai is is probably issued by the MOEW. If you know what size pet you want you can estimate the crate size and get a shipping quote direct from one of the airlines, the other costs will not be much by comparison. (the vaccinations are obviously an ongoing thing). Please note the vet check the airline does at the airport is in addition to the MOEW certificate. Airlines Emirates http://www.skycargo.com/ourservices/animalCare/animalcare.asp Qantas http://www.qantas.com.au/travel/airlines/travelling-with-pets/global/en#bookings Arrival in Australia information: http://www.daff.gov.au/aqis/cat-dogs/cat4?name=the%20United%20Arab%20Emirates Qantas may also be able to provide some advice regarding this, Emirates were able to provide advice bringing ours to the UAE. It's possible Emirates may have some information on Australia too. Finally, I would just like to point out a few things regarding getting a dog or cat. A pet is not for your son, it is a family pet and although your son may have lots of enjoyment with the pet please remember a dog or cat will be part of the whole family, especially as children have a tendency to grow up and go to college or university and then you will have the pet when he is away. Please do not buy an animal in the UAE, adopt a homeless animal (preferably from a shelter) or if you want a specific breed import one yourself, probably from the UK, maybe from Australia, this will require a huge amount of effort and research however. Pet shops here import poorly bred animals, which come from shocking conditions do not believe the sales pitch they give you. Sorry if this sounds a bit preachy, with the length of your post it was hard to tell if you were aware of these things and if you were then please ignore. Hope you find the right pet for your family. Updated to note: There are some homeless pups someone is looking for foster and presumably permanent homes for if you are interested: http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/topic199294-want-to-help-save-a-mom-and-pups-from-the-streets.aspx http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/puppies-needing-help-in-the-middle-east <em>edited by RuthM on 04/02/2013</em>
RuthM
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 04 February 2013 - 11:02
Well DH has now written to the 'manager' and informed her his next step is to contact the CEO for the insurance group and the UAE CEO (thank you linked-in - I also note the UAE website has NO details whatsoever about who the managers are, but the Global site does - now isn't that a surprise). He is absolutely furious. Not only have they refused to cancel the policy within the terms in their own policy document they have also just made up a different excuse every single time. Really shocking. The insurance with our credit card is with AXA and it isn't much different to the one we've paid for, well except that they respond when you ask them for a policy document which is always a bonus. If all else fails I may have to have some kind of really expensive mishap on our next holiday, what's really expensive and doesn't hurt much?
RuthM
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EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 04 February 2013 - 00:49
It's an annual policy. It was not cheap 3000 AED. We can't have travelled as we had no travel documents. We did enter the correct email address as they email you a quote which you then click on to buy. We asked them for documents once we found our card had been charged. They did not respond. We asked for documents again after another four days. We finally received documents but were not happy so requested to cancel within the cancellation agreement which is clearly stated as within fourteen days of receipt of the documents (we were within three days of receipt). The annoying woman's boss is copied in on the correspondence. They have come up with so many different reasons why the can't cancel it is blatantly ********. 1) Ask for reason to cancel 2) Claimed it is not within 14 days. I asked them to confirm the date the documents were sent they said 27th. I read the part in the document to them that said it could be cancelled within fourteen days of RECEIPT of documents. Then they said we should have chased them for documents. Informed them we did after ten days but had no response. And wtf?! We have to chase them?! Then... 3) Tried to claim changes have to be made within seven days. This is not a change it s a cancellation as detailed in the documents. Correct changes are seven days but cancellation is fourteen days. Seriously I never want insurance with these people can you imagine what they would be like if we actually had to make a claim?!!! Will be writing to their sunny global representative next. Could not be more annoyed.
RuthM
1042
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 03 February 2013 - 19:27
KitchenAid are changing their entire small appliance product line in March. There has been a new mixer launched (the 6.9l) so whether this is the update to the mixer or whether the old mixer will also be replaced I cannot be sure. But they have a big product launch in March. So I would wait. In the meantime I have bought a Kenwood KMix from the UK for a bargain £260. The Kenwood Chef has very good reviews, especially if you don't already have a blender etc. bad thing about Kenwood however is it is made in China the Brits apparently don't care about their manufacturing industry (makes me angry). KitchenAid is proudly made in the USA, sometimes I wish I was American!
RuthM
1042
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 01 February 2013 - 01:08
If it is an Apple authorised service centre I would suspect the replacement would not have FaceTime as it is not permitted to be sold here (Apple has an agreement with UAE authorities). That said if it is not an authorised service centre I would expect them to repair not replace the handset. If possible you would be better to take it to an Apple Store in another country where they may replace the handset. However they may just send it in for repair which can take time. To be sure it will be best to speak to ABM directly - even if you do take it in they should not be able to replace it without your consent so ask before accepting any replacement. Good luck.
RuthM
1042
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 31 January 2013 - 23:31
If she's flying business and therefore paying for a superior service, isn't Marhaba, or the equivalent, automatically included? Unfortunately not, business just means priority check-in, priority baggage, lounge access, flat bed seat and better meal. It does not provide assistance from check-in to plane and from plane to exit which is what she really needs. Technically the airline should provide assistance as she is elderly but last time they messed it up which is why I want to book something this time.
RuthM
1042
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 31 January 2013 - 23:23
Thanks for all your input. DH is drawing up a contract and including things like visitors etc. He is a lawyer so it is looking quite comprehensive. Even including notice for taking annual leave, death/bereavement leave, doctors certificate for medical leave over a certain number of days, disciplinary procedure, grievance procedure etc. and a confidentiality agreement. He may have gone a little overboard. To be honest I would not be comfortable with a strange man staying in the house and DH travels a lot so I intended on putting in no visitors staying over whatsoever. Is this unreasonable? Firstly, your husband being a lawyer is of no use to you whatsoever and any contract you draw up is not legally binding. Your maid will be on a Domestic Servant visa and will work whatever hours and days you require. Regardless of what you write, she knows that is is a load of nonsense and you an pick and choose whatever you want. If your husband is a lawyer, then ask him to research the law here on house guests. You cannot have strangers sleeping in your maids room, even if they are family, it is illegal. If they are visiting the country they can stay in your house, but not her room. I was going to respond in depth to this but DH pointed out to me it was a waste of time. Let me rename the contract 'Employee Handbook'. Thank you for the other helpful answers.
RuthM
1042
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 31 January 2013 - 18:38
Thanks for all the input. I was leaning towards Marhaba as they mention something about wheelchair on their website. But I am going to phone Ahlan and see what they say. She doesn't need a wheelchair but can't walk quickly and can get very nervous when people are bustling past her as she's been knocked over a few times and broken both hips. So if they have a buggy I am sure she will prefer that as she hates being pushed around it makes her feel incapacitated. The lounge isn't a problem as they are flying business anyway so will have access to the business lounge. Although perhaps the service will only agree to take them to "their" lounge. Thanks again. <em>edited by RuthM on 31/01/2013</em>
RuthM
1042
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 30 January 2013 - 01:23
Thanks for all your input. DH is drawing up a contract and including things like visitors etc. He is a lawyer so it is looking quite comprehensive. Even including notice for taking annual leave, death/bereavement leave, doctors certificate for medical leave over a certain number of days, disciplinary procedure, grievance procedure etc. and a confidentiality agreement. He may have gone a little overboard. To be honest I would not be comfortable with a strange man staying in the house and DH travels a lot so I intended on putting in no visitors staying over whatsoever. Is this unreasonable? Fortunately her English is good and she can read and write very well. I am guessing we have a good six months or so to think about it. She has a key to our villa and often comes when we are out and we always come back to find the place cleaned better than we expected, so I don't think she will go crazy when she is not working for an agency. DH overpaid her last summer by about 600 AED and she argued with him that he MUST take the money back, eventually after a long time of her explaining he realised his mistake and told her to take it as an Eid bonus which she did reluctantly but then thanked him. He travelled again last week and left too much money again (by one visit) and she told him not to pay her when she came the next time. She does not have many phone calls while she is here. In two years she has once gone outside to see a friend who was leaving Dubai. She asked me first. I know she has two children and a dog back home. I will ask about a husband in due course I think. With regard to her finishing at the agency can they make it difficult for her to move? She will have completed her three year contract/visa period. I guess I'm just still not sure if I want a live in maid. But everyone keeps on telling me we will need one when we have kids and I have a major disc issue in my back and am so worried it will go during pregnancy or after and I will be incapacitated, on my own and DH travelling. When my back becomes an issue I cannot stand, not through pain (although it hurts a lot), but my back physically will not go upright, people in Spinneys try to call an ambulance for me all the time it's really embarrassing and miserable and I cannot imagine coping with a baby on my own like that, I can't even get myself around and certainly cannot lift anything.
RuthM
1042
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 29 January 2013 - 16:37
I have a mac but I'm not as technically competent as I need to be. I need to send some photos as jpegs or pdf files. When in iphoto, the option to send a photo by email sends the image. It does not send the photo as a pdf or jpeg file. I'm probably missing something really obvious, but how can I turn a photo in iphoto into a pdf or jpeg so that I can then email it to someone who needs it in that format? TIA! If you use Mac Mail and iPhoto it should send it as a jpg. I just tested this. They display on the email but then you can download them from the email as jpg files. Are you emailing them using the share function on the bottom right of iPhoto? Do you have your preferences set to email using iPhoto or Mail? By all means you can copy it to your desktop then drop it into the mail but it's a bit of a convoluted method.
RuthM
1042
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 29 January 2013 - 16:20
Hi Could anyone please recommend a computer expert, I am having issues trying to sync my iPhone and iPad after having transfered iTunes files from a desktop to a laptop. I'd really appreciate it if anyone knows anywhere I can take my laptop to have someone look at it or maybe someone I can call? I have tried PlugIns without any success and I am slowly going demented! Thanks in advance. Claire Have you opened the files and manually sent them all to i tunes? It is laborious but you have to click on each song individually and open with itunes Once they are all in i tunes plug in iphone and at the top of the i tunes page it says music, apps etc click that and you can check the box to sync all songs and playlists then click apply on the bottom right of the screen. I could help but i would need to see the laptop WHAT?! You do not have to do this, blimey if I had to do this I would still be copying my iTunes next century. My iTunes folder is just under 2TB and I have over 8,000 songs in lossless, about another 15,000 in mp3 (gradually converting library to lossless) not to mention the 300 movies and 1200 TV episodes. And as Apple forgot about quality control (I have had to repeatedly send my new MacBook back) I have had to move the music part of this library four times in the last three months! Are you using a mac or a pc? If it's a mac you just need to copy over the entire iTunes folder onto the other mac replacing the existing iTunes folder (don't do this if you have added anything new to the laptop iTunes folder as it will REPLACE the contents!). The iTunes folder can be found in User/Music/iTunes. Then when you open iTunes hold down the Option key (alt) and it will come up with an option to choose iTunes library. Choose the library file iTunes Libray.itl (or something thereabouts) from the iTunes folder you just copied over. All the contents from your desktop iTunes should now be on your laptop. For windows it is shift key you need to hold down as you open it. But I would have to check where the windows folder is stored for iTunes (not seen a windows machine for about five years). If this is not the problem then post more detail and I can see if there is another solution.
RuthM
1042
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 29 January 2013 - 16:05
The base station is the thing that is connected to the ethernet (phone like) plug in the wall. The extender is the thing you are using to try and extend the range of your network. Some base stations and extenders are not compatible. Out of sheer laziness I use the Apple ones, I have a Time Capsule (Airport Extreme with a HDD) and an Airport Express. We are on Du in the Ranches so when you plug something into the ethernet port it just works (no modem etc. required). If you have this setup from your ISP, Du or Etisalat, (I think they are all the same but am not sure). Apple devices are very easy to set up. You just plug in the Timecapsule/Airport Extreme Base Station and go to Airport Utility (which is in Applications/Utilities) on your mac. It is as simple as setting up your email tbh. If you then buy an Airport Express you can configure that using the same software. Here is a picture of how the software looks: http://www.flickr.com/photos/90163622@N04/8426973620/ I don't know about other devices but if you want to check they are compatible post what they are and I can check for you. Some other manufacturers may have equally simple software for setting up. Otherwise I've never used Plug-inns but I'm sure they'll be able to help, if they do say your hardware is not compatible however then I do suggest looking at the Apple ones as you should have no trouble setting them up yourself and then you won't need anyone to come round if anything goes wrong in the future.
RuthM
1042
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 28 January 2013 - 18:13
Sorry I don't know anyone. What base station and extender are you using? Are you using MS Windows, Mac OS or something else to try and set it up?
RuthM
1042
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 28 January 2013 - 18:09
The White Company delivers to Dubai from UK as well. They have a sale on in the UK atm. On a personal note I go for lower thread count egyptian cotton percale. After having had 600tc organic cotton sateen sheets which were amazing I then did some reading and the consensus seems to be lower thread count and percale are 'cooler' to sleep under. The coolest thing it appears for sleeping is linen, but I've yet to find any I like.
RuthM
1042
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 28 January 2013 - 14:55
We have an agency maid who comes three times a week, she started at our villa two years ago on her first work day in Dubai. We have been looking for a live in maid for about a year, not seriously, but we are hoping to have children soon and would like a live in maid for when that time comes. However we like our agency maid so much we have just stuck with the agency and without a baby being on the way just yet it doesn't seem hugely urgent until that happens! We had previously decided if we got a full time live in maid we would go through an agency so as to not end up another tale of woe. I have extreme difficulty in telling people what to do so can just see a maid in our home could be a potential disaster. That said I am a great list maker and would be able to create a great itinerary it's just the telling I struggle with. The agency maid who comes three times a week has just advised us her visa ends in December and she is looking for a full time live in job. Should we offer her a job? It seems so perfect but I hear so many horror stories of people doing this. She really is fantastic, she understands good English, she loves the dogs and she can read my husband's handwriting which even I can't read! I cannot imagine her suddenly turning nasty once we are her sponsors but have been so put off of getting anyone live in from the stories on these forums. Furthermore she is Sri-Lankan. I don't quite understand the nationality issues in Dubai and have quite a few Sri-Lankan friends back home but again everyone says to me - don't get a Sri-Lankan. DH driver (an Indian) gave me a twenty minute lecture on how they 'all' steal. A friend advised me they will try and move their husband and family into our house the list of Sri-Lankan horror stories is endless. So questions: Has anyone taken an agency maid (one that works in many places) on full time after the end of their contract? And has it worked out? Does anyone have any good (or bad) stories of having live in Sri-Lankan maids? Any advice would be appreciated. <em>edited by RuthM on 28/01/2013</em>
RuthM
1042
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 27 January 2013 - 11:21
They stock a brand of food which I have been looking for, for a while. But they only had small dog food, in the small bite size. So they told me to buy lots of bags for my Labradors. I told them to get lost. Oh and lets not forget the poor little dog I saw dragged in there and having about ten different 'outfits' put on him to see which one his ridiculous owner liked best. Owner should be put down. Shop should be closed down.
RuthM
1042
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 27 January 2013 - 10:54
With regard to sedation and stress during the flight with our dogs I got them to sleep in their cargo crates for six weeks before flying (the longer the better). I started with the plastic crates (http://www.skykennel.co.uk/) and took the tops off and put their own vetbed in it. Once they were used to it I put the lid on. Once they were used to that I closed the door for a short period at a time, but not long enough for them to become stressed. I also plied them with treats while they were in the crate, to try and associate good things. At the airport I had them on the lead when I took them in and when it was time for them to go in the crate the airport assistant was surprised when they both jumped straight in and curled up and went to sleep. It is definitely worth getting them used to a cargo crate before they travel if you have time. Even more so with cats who become disorientated if they are not surrounded by their own scent.
RuthM
1042
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 26 January 2013 - 11:39
My grandmother is coming to visit us in Dubai within the next few weeks. She broke her leg last September and needs a perching stool/chair in the bathroom. Does anyone know where I can hire or buy one of these from? TIA. Try Life Pharmacy - the branch on Al Wasl road (take SZR interchange 1, direction Jumeirah). They have a good selection of mobility aids etc We have one to lend you if you like :)...your grandma needs to purchase a cast cover from life pharmacy though so she can cover the cast :)...let me know if you want to borrow ours oh, reread, chances are she is not still in a cast :)....anyway, she can still borrow the chair :) edited by SueB on 25/01/2013 That would be so helpful thank you. She is not here until 27th February but is staying until 24th March. If you're sure you don't need yours during that period and don't mind me borrowing it for that length of time then please drop me an email buttmonki at gmail dot com. Thanks again.
RuthM
1042
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 26 January 2013 - 05:33
Sorry I can't recommend a paediatrician. However have you considered adenoid, tonsil, middle ear or sinus problem? It could be caused by allergies or an infection. The dry air from air conditioning can create havoc with sinuses in Dubai. A post nasal drip would make him feel as if there was something catching his throat all the time, and sinusitis would make his nose feel blocked although it may not be producing much catarrh as it could be blocked from inflammation rather than mucus build up. If you think it's a possibility then perhaps look for a paediatric ENT to get it checked out? Hope you find the issue and a solution soon.
RuthM
1042
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 25 January 2013 - 11:16
*Fringe (won Saturn award, nominated for Emmy) *Battlestar Galactica (the new one from 2004, more political drama and action than Star Trek, won Saturn award, nominated for several Emmy Awards) True Blood White Collar Rome Life *Mad Men (Emmy awards 2008-2011 until Homeland came) Firefly *24 (Emmy Award 2006, Golden Globe - 2003) Chuck *Boston Legal (James Spader and William Shatner two Emmy each awards for this series and one Golden Globe) *The Shield (Golden Globe - 2002) Arrow *Six Feet Under (Golden Globe 2001 - Drama, nominated and won a number of Emmys) Castle Criminal Minds The Pacific Band of Brothers Warehouse 13 Life Justified Haven Big Bang Theory The Mentalist As previously mentioned SoA and Game of Thrones Helpful website: http://www.tv.com/shows/ My top three, Battlestar Galactica (action drama), Mad Men (drama) and Boston Legal (comedy drama).
 
 
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