SeaofLove | ExpatWoman.com
 

SeaofLove

SeaofLove
317
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Latest post on 15 August 2012 - 10:24
Sorry, boring question I know, but does anyone know where I can get some documents printed in this area? Just a few pages, nothing fancy.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 August 2012 - 10:40
Try Cara's in G&D Park or Damas, they both do jewellry repairs and I think Cara's may be quicker. Thank you!
SeaofLove
317
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 August 2012 - 14:25
He also has to give you three months notice before raising the rent. I'd call up RERA and verify this before letting your landlord know that you won't be paying the increase.
SeaofLove
317
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 August 2012 - 08:36
Happened to us a few months ago, turns out that one of our neighbours had a penchant for expensive cigars...It was horrendous, we'd go to bed at 8 just to avoid the smell in the living room. It means that there is a leak in your AC vents, get someone to check it out for you. In the meantime maybe inform your building as its also a community matter (leaks in adjoining vents). If all else fails, maybe try to find the offending neighbour and politely explain the problem, but there are no laws against smoking in your own apartment so they're not under any obligation to do so. Good luck!
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 August 2012 - 13:58
It is time consuming, the best advice I can give is to avoid job sites, the ads are usually posted by recruiters and they generally want someone with experience. Come up with a list of companies you want to work for, call for the contact details of the hiring manager and send a CV and cover letter to that person. Always call to follow up. I can't really comment specifically on the engineering industry but this method has worked for a few people I know, you just have to make the effort and tailor EVERY cover letter and resume. I'm also a fresh graduate and found nothing through job sites, but when I contacted firms directly, it was a completely different story. I've only started sending CVs 2 weeks ago and I already have an offer and several other interviews lined up, so it really is possible to get an entry level job here. Don't give up! Seaoflove I tried that method and they usually give me the general email for recruitment which is usually [email protected] but i dont even feel they check it... I visited the companies i wanna work in and all they say... please check out website thats the only place we recruit and we cant provide you with the name of the hiring manager its confidential... is what u did similar to what I did? or should make a smarter approach? I'm not in the same industry so that might be a factor, but I just call up reception, tell them I want to send my CV in and ask for an email. Usually I get a direct e-mail address for the hiring manager and I always ask for a name so I can address it properly, it has worked for me so far. It does pay off to be persistent, when you're calling to follow up, be polite and explain why you're calling, chances are they will put you through to whoever you sent your CV to. Keep in mind that it is Ramadan and many people are away so it might get better once everyone returns from their holidays. Also, have you had anyone look over your CV and cover letter? Sometimes you do need a pair of fresh eyes to spot mistakes or ways to improve it.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 August 2012 - 13:49
I'm on a mostly raw diet, did go completely raw for 3 days but it was really hard, I felt deprived despite having a really good raw recipe book, I just missed meat too much! There's alot of health benefits from eating a raw diet and I still believe that eating large amounts of raw vegs/fruits is vital to any good diet. Give it a trial and ease yourself into it if you can, it doesn't have to be an all or nothing diet, you can start off with a raw green smoothie every day and go from there. I don't have a dehydrator and didn't have the time to make very complicated dishes so I did end up with alot of salads, you'd probably have to plan ahead alot for this diet to work. Smoothies are the easiest, a handful of leafy greens (kale/spinach etc), a few pieces of fruit (apples/oranges) and water - too easy! Add ginger or herbs to taste.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 August 2012 - 13:39
It is time consuming, the best advice I can give is to avoid job sites, the ads are usually posted by recruiters and they generally want someone with experience. Come up with a list of companies you want to work for, call for the contact details of the hiring manager and send a CV and cover letter to that person. Always call to follow up. I can't really comment specifically on the engineering industry but this method has worked for a few people I know, you just have to make the effort and tailor EVERY cover letter and resume. I'm also a fresh graduate and found nothing through job sites, but when I contacted firms directly, it was a completely different story. I've only started sending CVs 2 weeks ago and I already have an offer and several other interviews lined up, so it really is possible to get an entry level job here. Don't give up!
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 August 2012 - 15:35
Its a shame that the Olympics are losing the true spirit, but I guess its a sign of the times and that countries want to be seen as all powerful and its not about who is the better sportsperson on the day. The media...well...what can you say, they have to increase circulation, sell papers, sell ads and make money and if sensationalising winners, losers and cheats gets the bottom line looking healthier then they will do it. China will always be an easy target because they dont conform to the "norm", your right SoL why single out only one country. . so is it in the spirit of the games to take toddlers away from the families and institutionalising them in sports training facilities? I think what the press is picking up on is the brutality of this....... And it does appear that China is one of the few countries to be doing this...... The parents send their children to train when they show promise, and yes, they train them hard, but which athlete doesn't? Gymnastics has a grueling training regime and the earlier they start the better as we lose flexibility with age. Once again there is sensationalism in the news and people still buy into them. These children want to win gold, and they want to follow the Chinese method which is tried and true, how is that child abuse? There was even an interview with a Chinese junior table tennis champion who complained he wasn't training hard enough. Don't knock something just because you don't understand it, there is a world of difference between Western and Chinese parenting. They don't believe they are doing their kids any favors by not pushing them to be the best, it doesnt make them poorer parents. Why are you taking the criticism so personally? Regardless of your nationality, the media loves to sensationalize stories like this so you shouldn't take it to heart. edited by Expatriate on 02/08/2012 You're right, like I said, it's because I'm sick of all these stories on the media, I know it's sensationalism but there are many who buy into it. Anyway, I have said my piece and that's that.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 August 2012 - 15:13
Its a shame that the Olympics are losing the true spirit, but I guess its a sign of the times and that countries want to be seen as all powerful and its not about who is the better sportsperson on the day. The media...well...what can you say, they have to increase circulation, sell papers, sell ads and make money and if sensationalising winners, losers and cheats gets the bottom line looking healthier then they will do it. China will always be an easy target because they dont conform to the "norm", your right SoL why single out only one country. . so is it in the spirit of the games to take toddlers away from the families and institutionalising them in sports training facilities? I think what the press is picking up on is the brutality of this....... And it does appear that China is one of the few countries to be doing this...... The parents send their children to train when they show promise, and yes, they train them hard, but which athlete doesn't? Gymnastics has a grueling training regime and the earlier they start the better as we lose flexibility with age. Once again there is sensationalism in the news and people still buy into them. These children want to win gold, and they want to follow the Chinese method which is tried and true, how is that child abuse? There was even an interview with a Chinese junior table tennis champion who complained he wasn't training hard enough. Don't knock something just because you don't understand it, there is a world of difference between Western and Chinese parenting. They don't believe they are doing their kids any favors by not pushing them to be the best, it doesnt make them poorer parents.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 August 2012 - 13:59
Unfortunately China and many other countries have abused the rules and have been caught out as drug cheats before. Unfortunately they will always be labelled as drug cheats because they failed the tests. There are ways to get around performance enhancing drug use prior to a competition and some athletes will definitely flout these rules in order to enhance their performance and results whilst other competitors play by the rules. When they threw the badminton games, they deserved to be disqualified, they were loosing so that they could play in a lower grade and get to the finals. I dont believe there is an anti-chinese sentiment to the games, the comments are being made against people who exploit the rules to win, they dont play fair. I know why they did it, and that is precisely my point, if it is in your best interest to lose, there is something wrong with the system. Indonesia and South Korea did the same, and i don't see sky news or DM harping on about them. Again, it is sports, people play to win, and they strategise for it. Re the drugs, tainting everyone with the same brush much? Or are making sweeping generalisations ok when it's about the Chinese? Show me a country that hasn't had a drug scandal, it is disgraceful how British media tainted that young girl's victory with speculations.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 August 2012 - 11:05
Carlucio's has got a picnic basket option, and they also do takeaway/delivery during Ramadan.
SeaofLove
317
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 August 2012 - 09:53
My vote is for A-levels, alot of UK universities require this and given that he's not entirely sure about what he wants for a career, it is the smartest choice for him.He would definitely need great A-levels to study economics at a good university and as another poster points out, if he decides on a career as a chef it is still transferable. It's a safe choice and a good back-up plan, at his age, he needs to keep all his options open.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 August 2012 - 16:28
Having eaten both, I can say i'd prefer worms, tasty and goes down nicely with a beer
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 August 2012 - 13:02
Asado is supposedly the best place for steak, maybe try there? Pricey though.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 August 2012 - 13:00
Thanks ladies, Once concern we have is there are a few maintenance items that the current landlord hasnt done as yet, he is trying to say that these are our concern ... things like a leak in one of the bathrooms, and air condition service... So then legally we can stay in the apartment until May next year which is good, i guess after then though we have no rights ? the new landlord can raise the rent etc ? Your current contract will simply be transfered to your new landlord, under all the same terms and conditions. After that, you get to sign a new contract with the new landlord for at least the next 12 months, if they want to increase the rent, they have to tell you 3 months before the new contract is signed otherwise it stays the same. Regarding the maintanance, check your current contract to see if it is covered by the landlord, there has to be a clause about that somewhere. Call RERA for more clarification, I found them really helpful when the same thing happened to us.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 August 2012 - 12:57
How strongly worded were your complaints? I only ask because I always use very forceful words, references to laws and threats to the media - works like magic. Call consumer rights like another poster has suggested, and send a final e-mail to Q with your complaint reference so they know a complaint has been made. I'd also head down to the store and speak to whoever is in charge again, just refuse to take no for an answer and stay put. Same thing happened to me with Home Center years ago, they gave me a faulty chair and when I visited the store they said to call/email the office. I simply refused to leave, and what do you know, I got my money back + an apology. I think stores here just try to frustrate you to the point where you'd stop trying, and it works alot of times as no one really wants to spend that sort of time and energy chasing after incompetent staff. If you show them that you're not going anywhere, they generally behave better. At Home Center I casually mentioned to the manager that I did not work and hence had all the time in the world to get my money back, the look on his face = priceless.
SeaofLove
317
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 31 July 2012 - 09:06
No one is advocating boob tubes and hot pants, we are talking sleeveless tops, and skirts/shorts which fall slightly above the knee. To start off with, there are no laws regarding this, just guidelines issued by some authorities which don't carry the same weight - if this isn't an offence punishable by law, obviously some people will conclude that it isn't that big of a deal. And given the many confusing laws that do exist here, it is a pretty reasonable conclusion. I've lived through Melbourne summers which are notoriously hot, and it still doesn't compare to Dubai's humid outdoor saunas. Yesterday I walked from one end of JBR to the other, 20 minutes later I was drenched with sweat with my clothes sticking to the skin. It takes discomfort to a whole other level. So sue me, I do go out with sleeveless tops, and some of my dresses and shorts don't fall below my knee. I carry a shawl in my bag for emergencies and put it on when I'm going indoors where there is A/C. And you know what? There is a huge difference between wearing sleeveless vs sleeved tops. The latter causes sweat to accumulate in the armpits, leaves sweat patches, and frankly looks even worse because it makes the clothing stick to the skin. Constrast that with a breezy sleeveless top which allows sweat to evaporate. And with regards to my knees, I am a size 0/2, and petite, which means that unless I buy maxi dresses/skirts (which are always too long for me), clothes that fit usually fall above my knees by an inch. Ultimately Dubai has to decide what it wants to be, a dream beach/tourist destination, or one that abides by its religious code, but it cannot be both.
SeaofLove
317
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Latest post on 31 July 2012 - 08:45
Always lived in the Marina/JBR area and love it, love the proximity to the beach, restaurants and entertainment down the Walk, and the fact that there are 3 fitness studios just 5-10 minutes walk away. I have seen some bad buildings here but also some really nice ones, generally Emaar and Trident buildings are a good bet.
SeaofLove
317
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 31 July 2012 - 08:42
We had a dishwasher in our last apartment, but none in our current one. I wash our dishes in our double sinks and to be honest, I prefer washing by hand. We're two people and it takes 20 minutes for me to clean up after 2 homecooked meals so it isn't really all that time consuming. The whole process of loading/unloading the dishwasher annoys me for some reason, and my method of hand washing is more energy efficient than using a dishwasher.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 30 July 2012 - 18:37
Grapeseed oil should never be used except in its raw state, it's poly saturated and exposure to heat changes its structure, so it causes inflammation in the body. There are many other healthier alternatives if you read up on it. <em>edited by SeaofLove on 30/07/2012</em>
SeaofLove
317
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Latest post on 30 July 2012 - 08:54
Surely everyone has the freedom to choose whether or not they wish to participate in singing a national anthem, I still don't get the basis on which they should be compelled to do so? Sure, they are competing as part of the GB team, but that doesn't mean they have forfeited their freedom of opinion, why should they forsake the values just to please the masses? Are they not entitled to believe in an independent Scotland/Wales, and if they do, why should they sing along to an anthem that pledges allegiance to another? I think that it was a brave decision which took alot of conviction, especially in the wake of all the slating that has followed. Like another poster said, there is alot of history behind this and everyone has a different opinion, the point is that they had a right to theirs. Patriotism is a great quality, but it shouldn't take away another person's freedom (of opinion, or otherwise) - honestly, who are they hurting by not singing a few notes?
SeaofLove
317
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Latest post on 29 July 2012 - 09:33
Yes, he is a real mummy's boy. She didnt want us to get married you see and Ive never had her blessing, and I do feel she is very manipulative. She has isolated herself (no friends, hubby dead, and no other children) and so the emotional load on Dh is huge. Daily calls with tears about how he has abandoned her (he wont move back to his home country) He feels enormous guilt for her self imposed suffering and so she milks it. When we met I was the breadwinner earning a lot more than Dh and she tolerated me but since I quit she has kicked this into overdrive. Its hard for Dh and I to talk around the topic without fighting and may be our biggest issue. That sounds like a really difficult situation for you Hilsbils, and unfortunately common in some cultures. I have seen this many times before, and my parents, as much as I love them, are great at playing this game. I lived with it for years and it was so emotionally draining, until one day when I realised that as long as I carry this guilt with me, I will never be truly happy. I finally gathered the courage to set boundaries, and I hope that your DH will one day do the same. Stay strong x ETA: Hilsbils has your DH considered counselling? I did, and it was a very defining moment for me when I realised how incredulous the situation was from another point of view. <em>edited by SeaofLove on 29/07/2012</em>
SeaofLove
317
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Latest post on 29 July 2012 - 08:57
Sounds like you need to have a frank discussion with your DH, this might be warning signs for more trouble down the road. I think that when you're in a relationship, married or not, big decisions should always be made together, regardless of who owns what as it affects the both of you. It probably depends on the person, but I would be very concerned if my DH did this without consulting me as it means he doesn't care about my views.
SeaofLove
317
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Latest post on 29 July 2012 - 08:50
Another vote for Downton Abbey, and Game of Thrones is also entertaining. Am currently watching Spooks, always good!
SeaofLove
317
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Latest post on 29 July 2012 - 08:49
They were exercising a right and personal choice, and it's their performance out on the pitch that should count. I am neither Welsh nor Scottish, but I would personally not sing any anthem which includes a line about crushing my people. At the risk of getting slated, in Aus, I would also stay silent for God Save The Queen. I'm not a monarchist and I believe in a Republic Australia, this is a reflection of my personal values, nothing more. I see alot of people get up into arms about this but why should people sing the anthem of a country that they see themselves as owing no formal allegiance to? As long as they are being respecfully silent (as you would with any other national anthem), it shouldn't be a big deal.
SeaofLove
317
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Latest post on 26 July 2012 - 12:21
Yes Geant at Ibn Battuta will be your best bet, Waitrose at Marina Mall is not too far either. And if you're interested in organic food, Ripe also does home delivery!
SeaofLove
317
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Latest post on 26 July 2012 - 11:48
Which voucher? The thai massage or hot stone?
SeaofLove
317
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Latest post on 25 July 2012 - 13:37
In the Marina? There is Wagamamas, Thyme and also the Make Business hub all in the Oasis/ Fattan towers in JBR. Make is quite businessy with lots of laptops but nice creative atmosphere and really fantastic & healthy food Love Make! I have been over-indulging in their ricotta hotcakes, they are so good!
SeaofLove
317
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Latest post on 25 July 2012 - 13:28
I just wanted to say that I hear you. I'm in the same boat myself, while DH has a great job and I graduated early this year, I sometimes feel as if I have single handedly killed my career before it even began by moving here. You're feeling frustrated and helpless, I get it. It's only natural and a lot of us have been there. But don't put yourself down, it isn't you (no, REALLY), ask anyone who is looking for a job at the moment, it's simply not easy. Chin up, and just keep looking, remember all you need is for one person to recognise your potential! It also helps to practice gratitude, count your blessings, there are many people in this world who don't have roofs over their heads, at least your DH puts one over yours =) Keeping my fingers crossed for you x
SeaofLove
317
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Latest post on 22 July 2012 - 07:54
I don't think there's an 'average' as it always depends on budget and taste, but my wardrobe essentials are: - Dark jeans - Light jeans - Great fitting white shirt - Plain t-shirts - Plain Black dress - Plain White dress - Tailored blazer - White pants (in dressy material) - A line skirt (black) - A few pairs of flats in primary colours - Black heels - Statement necklace/earrings/bracelets/rings Start off with those items, the best quality you can find and afford as the idea is to use them for a long time. If you get them in basic colours (black/white) you can easily build a wardrobe around them. Be creative and look online for inspiration (there are many lookbooks that you can view now, I love NYlookbook =)
SeaofLove
317
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Latest post on 18 July 2012 - 14:27
I would take a look at JBR, it is next to the sea and has a great holiday feel to it. That being said, I have never heard of house sitting in Dubai. I live next to JBR and my building doesn't allow short term lets (less than 6 months), don't now if that is the norm but in any case, I doubt that you would find a villa on the Palm for a month's rent.
SeaofLove
317
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Latest post on 11 July 2012 - 12:51
Thanks so much for the info and stories, it gives me hope! AmyAus82, are you also an Aus law graduate? I've asked a few UK law firms about training but all of their schemes are held in the UK and not Dubai, I never heard about the possibility of training here before. Should I be looking at local firms then?
SeaofLove
317
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Latest post on 11 July 2012 - 12:36
good luck! i used to have a problem with oily skin, but i use clarins night oil at night now, and although it sounds strange, your skin stops producing oils when you apply it, takes a few days for your skin to get used to it though, maybe when you come back? when i got out, i just use a bit of cheapy boots loose powder and im matte most of the ngiht (unless i dance!) Yup...sounds strange...will definitely give it a try once i am back.....am tired of this sticky feeling....:( Clarins Orchid oil was recommended to me by a facialist, it smells heavenly! And what do you know, my previously oily skin is now close to normal. Give it a go!
SeaofLove
317
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Latest post on 11 July 2012 - 12:34
SeaofLove remember everyone has to start somewhere! With your good enducational background/grades from a reputable Aussie Uni you should find something. Give Miller Hay recruitment a go (near DIFC of Shk Z rd), I saw a while a go they had some positions going with law firms at entry level, perfect to get your foot in the door somewhere. Goodluck! ;o) Thanks for the tip C&P, I have been looking at job sites for a while and never saw an entry level legal position before, good to know they actually exist! I can't wait to start work and put my degree to good use.
SeaofLove
317
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Latest post on 11 July 2012 - 11:26
Thanks for the encouragement ladies, I'll get started on a list of contacts and work from there. Em2san thanks for the details for Al Tamimi =)
SeaofLove
317
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Latest post on 11 July 2012 - 09:43
You and your DH did a very kind thing OP, and as some other posters have suggested, there are many kitties here who are looking for good homes! Cats are a blessing and they really do make a house feel like home.
SeaofLove
317
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Latest post on 11 July 2012 - 09:40
I finished my last units this January and I'm finally getting myself in gear for the much dreaded job search, but word on the streets is that it is extremely difficult for fresh grads in Dubai as most people look for experience. I'm not trying to take advantage of anyone's generosity here (I remember a thread on this forum about this), but I'm genuinely seeking answers. I entered a great law school in Australia (ranked top 15 by QS) on scholarship,had good grades throughout high school and completed a work placement at a top tier, but I've been told that it doesn't make a difference as even paralegal roles require at least 2 years experience. I always look at the positives but at the same time, I want to be realistic - would anyone ever consider hiring a fresh grad when there are many others with years of experience behind them? Honest answers appreciated =)
SeaofLove
317
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Latest post on 10 July 2012 - 16:35
I went to Hanoi yesterday to get some food for take away. I got the spring rolls- when I bit into one of them i broke my tooth on a piece of metal that somehow ended up inside it. I called the restaurant right away to a) warn them so they can ensure no other bits end up in their food and b) to see how they suggest we handle the situation with regards to the damage i sustained to my tooth. I spoke to an employee who was unable to help in any way or form and only after chasing her for a response several times did she give me the number of the owner. There was no answer when I tried calling and until now, no response to my text message. Only after contacting the restaurant again today did I recieve a text message from a restaurant employee informing me that her boss said that they dont accept any liability and I should take it to court if I want any money from them. Pretty rude! As some of you here may have already experienced- Dubai dentists are not cheap.... and whilst the food may not be bad ( other than the spring roll I didnt get to eat anything else) the way this has been handled has left a more than bad taste in my mouth....!! Call DED on 600545555. All services should be carried out with due care and skill, I'm not sure if restaurants are covered under the Consumer Code but even if not they will be able to point you in the right direction. It is deplorable how they responded to you and I would pursue a complaint.
SeaofLove
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Latest post on 10 July 2012 - 15:02
Apa khabar!! Can't help you with much but just wanted to say welcome to the board =)
SeaofLove
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Latest post on 10 July 2012 - 09:06
It really isn't your place to say anything, and if he asks, then you can say that you are only a tenant and not fully aware of everything. Bluff your way out. Or tell them that it is not your place to be involved. Your LL has been good to you, now you return the same. You don't need to lie, just avoid discussing things that are not your business. I'm conflicted about this, because it is partly my business. If the sale goes through, this could be my new landlord, and I can't imagine that he would be too happy when probems start appearing. Like I said, I like my landlord, but he has told us that this is the time to discuss any concerns we have with the buyer. Primarily, I'm concerned over the service charges, half of the owners in this building have not paid them and are contesting it as we speak, and if the new buyer decides to go down this route it would mean trouble for us. Part of me feels like I should raise these issues before the sale, and not after.
SeaofLove
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Latest post on 10 July 2012 - 08:55
Im had a nightmare with my apartment a few months ago. The landlord wants to sell it and about 4 agents were / are dealing with it. I was constantly getting calls to arrange viewing times and it was driving me nuts as my husband would ask them to call me ! The buyers would come over and walk around and have a snoop which is fine.. but what annoyed me was the agents would then start opening the wardrobes to show them space :\: ticked me off because it has all my stuff in it ! the agents would then park themselves on my sofa and start chatting with the buyers and they would too without asking ! then theyw ould ask to come around at say 7pm ( dinner time in my house ) or on a friday. at the end I was sick of it and specified what time I was in the apartment and when viweings were allowed. Im not being awkward but it was the attitude of the pushy real estate people and the lack of respect that annoyed me. Specify times and when they can come and look at the apartment. You just need to open the door basically, the real estate agent will show the buyers around. Ugh, that's what I'm afraid of! I don't really want people trampling all over the place, and even though we had specified to the landlord that we needed a week's notice, we only found out a few days ago after we had made other plans for tonight. I'm not sure if there will be an agent today, if there is one I would probably have to stay quiet about the problems, no?
SeaofLove
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Latest post on 08 July 2012 - 17:00
So sorry you're in this situation, I haven't seen the Torch, but have you looked at Mag 218? Failing that JLT would also be in your budget.
SeaofLove
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Latest post on 08 July 2012 - 16:55
Any other comments ladies? None else has said the three magical words first? I did. We were in the car after he picked me up from the airport (we were in a long distance relationship) and the moment just felt so right, I literally couldn't help myself. And he said it back! He later said that he had been waiting for a special moment before I ruined it with my big mouth... And no, he didn't get the upper hand in the relationship because I said it first. Saying I love you wasn't about giving up control, it was about expressing feelings that I had felt for years towards him. We've been together for almost a decade and I certainly don't feel like the weak person in this relationship.
SeaofLove
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Latest post on 08 July 2012 - 16:47
Florence, Italy is top of my list. Stunning views, great food, and a very friendly vibe. Venture out of the city and hike the Cinque Terre, and then a gorgeous seafood dinner at Manarola or RioMaggiore. I'm aching to go back again, DH and I travel heaps but it is one of our favourite vacation spots. Dream destination would be Seoul, Korea. Mostly because of the yummy food =)
SeaofLove
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Latest post on 05 July 2012 - 13:43
Bloomingdales Home is worth a look, DH and I had been looking forever for a large L shape sectional and finally found our dream couch there, they had the best selection by far, mostly classy, beautiful pieces.
SeaofLove
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 July 2012 - 11:58
I understand people getting frustrated at rude cabin crew, I've been on the receiving end of really bad service from Emirates before and while I can appreciate that they are human beings as well, hello? They're in the service industry, so serve! Some of the crew I've encountered lack the most basic courtesy and it simply boggles the mind, before anyone speaks about tainting everyone with the same brush, some of my friends are Emirates CC and they are fab, I just count myself unlucky to have met a few very bad eggs on my flights! That being said, why care so much about their attitudes? We pay a stupid amount of money for BC, but not for the customer service. When we fly long distances I care alot more about the lie-back seats so we can get a good sleep in, or the better selection of food/free alcohol etc. My interactions with the crew would last a few minutes at most, the rest of the time I get to enjoy a comfortable flight. In the end, that's all that matters, to me at least, but to each his own I guess.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 June 2012 - 09:08
Consuming unfermented soy products (i.e. tofu or soy milk) may not be the best thing for your body, even detrimental. They contain phytic acid which stop important nutrients from being absorbed, especially relevant for women as we need iron. Phytoestrogens in soy also mimic oestrogen, not a good thing! A vegan diet doesn't necessarily mean great health, if you're seriously considering it, educate yourself on healthy meat substitutes and soy products. You don't have to cut out all soy, just eat fermented soy products such as miso and tempeh. Should add a disclaimer that I'm not a professional, just a health nut who reads alot =)
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 18 June 2012 - 08:42
Given that the question asked 'what would you do', I'd answer just that. And I'm not a mum so this is all hypothetical... I would take the school place in a heartbeat, and I can't fathom how anyone could even hesitate in this. Education is tmy first priority, and in this case a top grammar school, with what I can only assume first class teachers and proven results wins hands down against any 'lifestyle'. You only get this one chance in educating your kids, every test, and every exam score will stay with them for the rest of their lives, it affects their university, degree and career choices, and I personally will not stop short of the best education that money can buy. You list the sea, and cosmopolitan lifestyle in Dubai, all good things but not exclusive to this place. Your child will have plenty of opportunities to see the sea or mingle with different nationalities when she is grown, and in my opinion it isn't a good enough reason to let go of a top notch education. Obviously, parenting style depends on your own background and culture, and I know alot of people who do not understand the Asian focus on academics. All I can say is, it worked for me and many others, and it's how I will raise my kids.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 June 2012 - 12:32
You may be missing out on some things when you move to Dubai, and I won't lie, yes, there will be times when you wish you were back home. But, there is so, so much to gain by living here. You will wake up to beautiful sunshine days (all year round!) and hear the call for prayer in the evenings. There are gorgeous sandy beaches and you will spend many a weekend listening to waves breaking on the shore. Romantic nights out could mean dining under the stars at Pier Chic with a view of the Burj Al Arab, or champagne with nibbles on the beach at the One and Only Royal Mirage. Indulgent Friday brunches (especially at Al Qasr), abras across the Dubai Creek, bargaining at the Gold or Spice souks...This is a huge step, and a big adventure for all of you, but chances are, you are going to love it here =)
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 June 2012 - 12:16
LOLOL...the lengths some women will go to avoid leading a healthy lifestyle never cease to amaze me! No need to be mean, from OP's posts it seems like she is a young new mum, there could be many reasons why she asked this question, being lazy and wanting to avoid being healthy may not be one of them. Whatever it is, to want to go to these lengths shows an insecurity in her body, you don't have to be sympathetic but try refraining from unhelpful comments. OP, have never tried any of those belly binders, maybe someone else could help you out with that. But hopefully you are also making permanent healthier changes in your lifestyle. There are many core exercises you can do that will help tone up your belly.
 
 
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