Scotchanddiet | ExpatWoman.com
 

Scotchanddiet

Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 August 2012 - 00:36
We are in a three bedroom (plus maids room and study) townhouse in Alma and pay anything from 700 to 1200 dhs depending on the time of the year. We also water the garden two to three times per day. HTH Thanks Yorky. Does that include the 5% housing fee?
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 June 2012 - 15:39
Yes I found it on Amazon and got it delivered here with no problems via my USA mailbox. Another thing to try until it arrives is a tablet of Magnesium, zinc and calcium. I ground this up in a mortar and pestle and put it in my sons milk. The difference was immediate and noticeable by us, our nanny and the teachers at his nursery. Good Luck!
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 26 June 2012 - 13:42
I bought this deal too but haven't been able to use it as they never answer the phone number specified for bookings.
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 June 2012 - 09:03
The Laguna is lovely and there are several different hotels to chose from ie Sheraton, Banyan Tree, Outrigger. At the other end is Katathani which I also recommend. Both are lovely and relaxing and not too busy.
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 June 2012 - 08:57
I'm personally not a club med fan- I find then a bit restrictive and the GO's annoying as anything trying to get you involved in whatever activity they are plugging that day. Their kids clubs are good though. Other ideas: Cruise (kids have a blast in the kids clubs, you and husband chill) Sri Lanka- close, inexpensive and relaxing Esprit Family Holidays- in France mainly using ski chalets but oh so relaxing. We did one in Alp d Huez and it was fabulous. Maldives- all inclusive resort
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 June 2012 - 08:47
I have a copy of Organisational Behaviour by McShane, Travaglione. 2012 edition I got mine shipped from www.unibooks.com.au. Book depository had it on back order but do deliver here. At first when I couldn't get the text shipped , I went to the publishers website (in my case McGraw Hill) and I was able to get the ebook from there on trial for a month free of charge with the option to buy it. Can you try that? What are you studying? I'm doing my Masters and am Starting with an OB unit so I can get credit towards either an MBA or Masters in Psych.
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 May 2012 - 13:06
Terrible.. just heartbreaking :( When I dropped my LO off at nursery today, the teacher mentioned that they had recently had a fire drill and had a plan in place. They have regular fire drills at the Raffles nurseries. I have been actually been at my sons school (Star) when there was a fire drill and I saw with my own eyes just how quickly they evacuated the school. The staff were in control, had the register for each class and the classrooms empied quickly. It was very reassuring. It would certainly be worthwhile asking your LO's schools, nurseries etc if they do regular drills.
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 May 2012 - 17:44
When my oldest was scared of 'monsters' at bedtime a few years ago , I painted a small rock with sparkly nail polish and told him the magic stone would keep the monsters at bay. I also tell my kids that the CCTV in shopping malls is Santa watching to make sure they are behaving. In the financial crisis, Santa sub let the cameras to the Easter Bunny. Not entirely sure that my oldest one has worked out I am fibbing yet. ;)
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 May 2012 - 17:03
Searched several pharmacies and nutrition type stores today and couldn't find Natural Calm anywhere. Which website are you ordering from Mrs Bing?
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 May 2012 - 11:15
Lik I mentioned below , we are very much in the early stages of diagnosis and treadment etc. Also our little one is still so young- only three and a half. Things that make a massive difference to him is having consistency in his day and routine. For example, he must have his bath at 6pm or within say 45 mind of that time, followed by dinner followed by milk, three stories read to him and bed. If for any reason we aren't able to adhere to that, our nanny will step in to ensure it happens if we are out or attending to our older boy. Likewise, in the morning he has a set routine regardless of whether it's a nursery day or not. Giving him time limits and warnings of when we are to change activity are vital. For example, I might say when the sand timer runs out we will stop playing with the cars and get our shoes on to go out. Then moving onto 'the next thing' is done with little resistance. If I say 'okay put the cars away and pop your shoes on' with no countdown then all **** breaks lose! This is still very new to us and so far these strategies are working. We will be booked in to do a course soon and both of us as parents and our nanny will attend it. The nursery teacher has also expressed that she'd like to be involved too (for her own professional development as much as helping our son).
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 May 2012 - 17:36
After a 7 hour drive yesterday, it's going to either be my son on something, or me on valium! I have also heard great things about neurofeedback but haven't tried that yet. Frustrating process, isn't it? Oh I hear you on the valium! My user name isn't just an random name I plucked from thin air beleive me! ;) I've not read much about neurofeedback but I think Banana Muffin/Bran Muffin/Baked Moussuka (or whatever name she is up to these days!!) had explored this a bit. Agree totally with the frustrating part- but I feel we are on the right path at last- or at any rate off the rough and onto a semi beaten track ;)
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 May 2012 - 16:09
Hi Perces- firstly wanted to say that you are not alone and that there are people that understand that complete feeling of frustration when you start to try and find out relevant and useful information. I am sure that I don't have to tell you that there are great places here in Dubai to seek help and some very very average ones that are very keen to seperate you from your dirhams. For what it is worth, we've found Kids First at Al Wasl very good so far. We are very much in the beginning of the diagnosis process ourselves (having done the usual hearing tests, audiology, speech assessments and now educational psychologists) and I'm thrilled to hear that there is a support group here- [b'>thanks Plum2[/b'>- that will come in handy down the track I'm sure. [b'>Verdeque-[/b'> is Natural Calm available here in Dubai? We are currently trialling extra Omega 3,6,9 suppliments, in the form of Kids Smart (think they used to be called EyeQ) with our three and a bit year old with moderate results (certainly no significant improvement). Obviously we are trying natural solutions first (food elimination, behaviour, therapy etc) but we are open to medication if necessary in the future. Our view is that if you have high blood pressure (for example), you would modify your diet and exercise but also might also require medication. ADD/ADHD should be considered the same way, in that you should feel comfortable to tackle it with everything available in the arsenal. Just my own humble opinion of course ;) Best of luck to you Perces...
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 May 2012 - 20:08
Hey October- if a tree falls in a forest and no one is around to hear it, does it make a sound? And exactly how long IS that piece of string ? ;)
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 May 2012 - 18:44
No. The accident already happened before you ran over the piece of the car. Who knows what the insurance would say though if you got your car damaged and wanted to file a claim. Interesting question. Yep that's what I was wondering. Today I did see three cars collide and I did run over something- not sure what- possibly a piece of plastic that covers the tail light or head light or something? At any rate, something small enough not to cause any damage to my car but large enough to make a huge noise as I went over it. It caused me to wonder what would happen if the item was larger (like a flying hub cab or a bumper ) and would I need to stop to get the appropriate paperwork for repairs. In any event there was no harm done and I continued to drive. Just made me think... <em>edited by Scotchanddiet on 14/05/2012</em>
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 May 2012 - 14:56
Interesting. So let's say it was a big part like a bumper or a hubcab or something - that could potentially cause damage I guess. So on the other end of the spectrum, using the same theory if you ran over glass debris are you still involved?
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 May 2012 - 14:33
If you are driving along and the three cars in front of you collide and you consequently swerve to miss the collision and run over a random piece of car are you technically 'involved' in the accident? That's my random and bizarre question of the day...
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 May 2012 - 10:33
The teacher supply place at the Beach Centre in Jumeriah (near the Zaks uniform shop) has some. They aren't as big as the ones I think you mean but they are different colours and length of time. If you want the ones like this that are used in nursery/school for additional needs kids and young kids: http://media-cache9.pinterest.com/upload/42925002668603333_hiLI8qeC_c.jpg You can order them online from the US. Let me find where I ordered from..
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 May 2012 - 09:25
Love Texas and would move there if employment took us there without too much hesitation. I wouldn't be too concerned about the lack of green card (for the wife working I mean... obviously your husband would require one for you to even be there for a job!) as Texas and other states near the border aren't quite so strict on checking such things if you are the right fit for an entry level job (restaurants, bars, stores etc... professional jobs are a different story) Check to see if you are eligible for a H-1B visa if you have tertiary/college/university qualifications (in any field). You could qualify for a work visa on your own steam under this classification. In a slightly related question, have you ever watched Big Rich Texas on the style network? It's "reality" tv (as much as a directed reality show can be anyway!) set in Dallas. Love it- soooo trashy!!
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 May 2012 - 09:17
My little one loves: We're Going on a Bear Hunt The Gruffalo Dear Zoo Dear Santa One Woolly Wombat The Box Oh the Places You'll Go- Dr Suess (well that's actually *my* favourite... I once based an entire Sales and Leadership training course on this book and it was a hit)
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 May 2012 - 10:10
We pay 9.8% for a property in Paddington/Red Hill. Gold Coast is about 9% It totally depends on the market- better property managers can charge higher amounts and RE's in lower income areas can charge less. Which area is the property located?
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 May 2012 - 11:15
Do you happen to have a great recipe for your southern mac n cheese? Shoulder cut is best but I have had success with the pork that is in the frozen section of spinneys pre cut into cubes as well. I put it in the slow cooker on auto for 6-8 hrs with a BBQ sauce. It then pulls with a little effort (two forks usually does the trick) Sadly my kids and husband don't like true Southern Mac n cheese so I end up serving it with coleslaw. Mines pretty stock standard: butter, flour, milk, grated cheddar or jack cheese, bit of salt, bit of pepper and pasta elbows. I know lots of people use Velvetta cheese (in the blue box) as well. Just to qualify- sadly I'm not a born and bred Belle (although I do have painted toe nails year round, rarely wear White after Labor day and my pearls are real. I do confess however to hating grits... Sorry)
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 April 2012 - 16:20
You may be eligible for LAFHA which is basically a small tax break for Living Away From Home (Allowance) but I think the current government has been trying to close this loophole.
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 April 2012 - 16:16
Also be aware that private health insurance is set to be 'means tested' shortly meaning that higher income earners will pay more for this AND be hit with a Medicare Levy and possibly a Medicare Surcharge of their health insurance is not sufficient under the tax ruling. Previously one was able to claim back 30% of the cost of health insurance from the government. From what I understand this may not be possible for higher income families. Furthermore, for every year you are over the age of 31 yrs and previously without recognized insurance, your premium will be higher than a same aged person that has had insurance. Confused yet? Perhaps that's the idea ;) Just something to add into your calculations.
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 April 2012 - 16:08
For those with KitchenAid, when making bread does your mixer look like it's working hard. Any odor, wobbles etc? No not at all. I don't make a lot of bread but when I have used the dough attachment it's been fab. Mine is Candy Apple Red .... Cos obviously red ones go faster ;)
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 April 2012 - 16:04
I love my GHD and can't live without it. I have very thick, very very curly, long hair and GHD is the only one that does the job. I've tried Cloud Nine but didn't love it enough to switch from my GHD. I just wish they'd been invented three decades earlier - I'm sure my photos from the 80's and 90's would be far less cringe worthy !
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 April 2012 - 16:42
Rather than start a new thread: how much approximately is a driver for a week? If we provide the vehicle?
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 April 2012 - 16:40
I've just had two screens replaced (really... Two... Three year old boys, iPods and hard tile floors don't mix well). I happen to have the reciept with the phone number on it right in front of me The first one I went to an Apple Service cehe in Bur Dubai. It's on Khalid bin Whalid st opposite the York Hotel. The number is 0435 23040 The second one was a bit more expensive but much easier to get to. On SZR nearly opposite the Burj Khalifa right at the entrance to the metro station. It is a computer store next to Ocean View Real Estate. 0434 66990 <em>edited by Scotchanddiet on 29/04/2012</em>
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 April 2012 - 08:59
There's a fairly new building with brown panels on the front (main road side of JBR) behind Oasis Tower and there is a business centre in there. Maybe they would have one. Thanks Amelia :)
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 April 2012 - 08:58
Ah I didn't think of hotels. Maybe the bigger ones like Hilton etc might let me even if not a guest. Good tip Cornish Pixie!
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 April 2012 - 08:57
In Abu Dhabi- the Zayed Sports Complex regularly recruit. I don't have their details to hand but a quick google should point your friend in the right direction. Others: Super Sports Francis Clark Any of the beach clubs - Habtoor , Le Meridien, Jebel Ali etc.
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 April 2012 - 21:36
One of the schools they authorised to be a World School was, at the same time, being investigated for teaching their kids that Jews descend from apes - go on, google it and you'll see what I say is true. And this is a World school that embodies IB principles? I see the problem...they should update their teaching methods since we all evolved from apes and not just Jews. Oh pickle juice- I LIKE!
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 April 2012 - 21:30
Shoulder cut is best but I have had success with the pork that is in the frozen section of spinneys pre cut into cubes as well. I put it in the slow cooker on auto for 6-8 hrs with a BBQ sauce. It then pulls with a little effort (two forks usually does the trick) Sadly my kids and husband don't like true Southern Mac n cheese so I end up serving it with coleslaw.
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 April 2012 - 22:01
This was one of the most emotionally intense books I have read in recent years,particularly as I read it when in the latter stages of pregnancy with my youngest son. The subject matter haunted me for months and I'm not sure I could put myself through watching the film.
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 26 April 2012 - 20:41
Twigger- I'd love to hear an update on this. Did your son do the college tours? Has he decided on MIT?
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 26 April 2012 - 10:26
Thats ok, I got to write and sign my own authorisation at an airport the other day...to use my husbands credit card to buy tickets and fly ;) Ah yes- I have signed many an NOC (often in front of the company I require it for) with my husbands signature. Poor b*gger doesn't know what he's given me 'permission' for over the years!
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 April 2012 - 20:16
Thanks Tigerlily. We took the place and so far am very impressed with the teacher and the vice principal. I feel that it is a good move for my little one, especially for him to do FS1/KG from September.
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 April 2012 - 20:12
So they want you to pay THIS terms fees even though your child isn't starting until September AND then pay for the Fall term by September 1st? Tell them to blow it... NO WAY! Schools can ask for payment o secure a place but that is deductible from the next terms fees. Which school is this?
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 April 2012 - 17:01
Yes please! Can you email me to discuss logistics : scotchanddietdxb at gmail . Com
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 April 2012 - 13:28
Oh I am SO sorry! I got GCS and Nibras confused!!! Please disregard my post below. Oops!!!
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 April 2012 - 13:16
I'm about 90% sure that I saw it recently at Debendems at Ibn Battuta. I don't use it but noticed it as an Australian brand. Hope that helps!
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 April 2012 - 13:07
Oh and check your health insurance policy that should be provided by your husbands work. We have excellent cover but still find that audiology, speech therapy, assessments, Ed psychs etc are not covered and we pay out of pocket for all of these. Just something to budget for. ENTs are often covered for some reason.
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 April 2012 - 12:56
I have heard horrendous things about Greenfields. If you go to the desert speak forum you will see what I mean. There are several Raffles schools. I beleive the West Campus is the better one.
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 April 2012 - 12:45
Hi NZfamily- I have not had experience personally with that clinic but have heard good things. One thing to keep in mind is that the waiting lists for SLT here in Dubai are *horrendous*! Get onto wait lists as soon as you can. I finally got our DS in after hounding our prefered centre for a ages and saying we could be there within minutes in the event of someone canceling or no- show. This eventually worked and we have been assigned a lovely SLT now at Kids First. Obviously you can't do this until you're here in Dubai but it does work. As for Audiology, the American Hospital at Healthcare City has an excellent paediatric unit that is a Cochlear centre for excellence if you need to go down that road. Good luck with your move.
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 April 2012 - 11:40
Wonderful!! Thanks so much ladies! I ended up copying and pasting onto a word doc, resizing and printing. Very simple in the end- thanks for all the suggestions.
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 April 2012 - 20:58
I looked unsuccessfully for them for ages and eventually got a pack of 100 from Australia. I use them for craft stuff, cooking microwave popcorn with no additives and a gazillion other things. Very useful!
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 April 2012 - 11:38
We are still paid in AUDs and pay tax in Australia, so for us, it's for the life experience and having the opportunity for both us and our kids to mix with people from other cultures and backgrounds. Yes, Australia is lovely, but it can be quite parochial as it is so distant from the rest of the world. For example: Muslims have got a lot of bad press in Australia over the last few years, so one of my prime reasons for coming here was to enable our kids to learn that just because someone is from another religion or culture it doesn't mean they don't want the same things as we do, feel the same way as we do etc. In Australia, their school is pretty much pure WASP. Over here they have friends from all over the world and I love that. There are kids across 78 different countries in their school now. I hope that it will mean as they grow up they won't necessarily take the generalisations, stereotyping and dramatics of the media as gospel and instead think for themselves about the people they have met along the path of their life and judge people on their own experiences of them. LIKE!!!! x 1000000 (except the bit where you pay tax. That part I 'unlike' !)
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 April 2012 - 11:15
I have been looking at propertyfinder and saw some Springs villas that have a study that has been converted into a maids room. How does this work? Have they added a bathroom? Or added an external door? I'm having trouble picturing this.
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 April 2012 - 11:13
Oh lovely Amy and Sleepy :)
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 April 2012 - 11:12
Money Cheaper of cost of living in Dubai than Australia Escape a socialist government that doesn't encourage working harder- 47% personal tax Proximity to the rest of the world for travelling Money Career advancement Did I mention no tax? Better quality of life Money
Scotchanddiet
298
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 March 2012 - 17:00
http://m.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/garuda-in-worlds-worst-category/story-e6frev69-1111113113479 This is an older article but you get the drift...
 
 
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