SeaofLove | ExpatWoman.com
 

SeaofLove

SeaofLove
317
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Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 10:40
I wouldn't stress about it OP, I didn't introduce myself when I first started using this forum either (under another user name) and afterall most people who end up here are looking for help in the first place. Welcome to Dubai =)
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 10:05
We use them for our cats and found them to be very professional and sympathetic, there's a German lady there who is simply lovely and the assistant was very competent and gentle, even with our very difficult cat who was screaming the entire time.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 09:55
I followed my dreams to a university four hours away from my then BF, we were already long distance and had big plans of moving in together when I enter university but that plan went to pieces after I got my offers. I had set my heart on the one close to BF but applied to 5 other backup ones, all 6 offered a place and one a scholarship, I took the scholarship offer and never looked back. My BF was loving, supportive and understanding, we did the long distance thing for the next 4 years during which he moved to Dubai for his career. We're now married and happily settled in Dubai. Please tell your son to pursue the best education for himself, its going to affect the rest of his life and career. If they're really in love, she would want the best for him and it'd only make them stronger.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 09:36
Try The Book Shelter. You can log into their website and offer your books for adoption, its brilliant.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 08:58
We did. Our landlord was EMAAR and they tried every trick in the book to keep the deposit, DH and I had to fight tooth and nail, literally calling them up every day until we received our cheque 4 months after moving out. Stand your ground, they usually give up the act once they realise you're being completely serious about getting your money back.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 16 January 2012 - 19:05
OP, my heart goes out to you and I just want to tell you that you're going to be ok. I know that sounds like a far off place at the moment but as with all things, this too shall pass. Use this time to take care of yourself, indulge in some pampering and focus on what you need. Explain to your DH that at this time, he needs to be there for you an only you. There is no shame in acknowledging that you need to put yourself first at this difficult time, you need to heal yourself before you can heal your marriage. Please take the advice of these ladies and talk to a counsellor. Grief is a terrible thing to bear alone and you don't have to carry this burden on your own, seek the support of your friends and family. Take care of yourself, sending prayers your way x
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 11 January 2012 - 11:16
Bump, anyone???
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 08 December 2011 - 13:52
You could get an internal humidity control system in your piano, don't know where you can get it done here though.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 08 December 2011 - 12:45
I love mine to bits, DH's parents are divorced with new partners so it's like having 2 sets of in-laws! They are all loving, wonderful people who welcomed me into the family. They now send emails to me that end with love to DH!! Back home we would gather for a family dinner at least once a week and now that we're in Dubai I miss them terribly, life just isn't the same. I feel so very blessed and grateful, mostly because they did a terrific job of raising DH. Unfortunately, DH can't say the same about his in-laws...
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 November 2011 - 16:41
=) I remembered thinking it was the first time I'd seen it in Dubai, happy cooking!
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 November 2011 - 16:33
Daily Gourmet on the walk, JBR definitely has it, it's at Murjan 1, plaza level.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 November 2011 - 12:55
I know of galangal, which is similar to ginger. If that's what you're looking for I've seen some in C4. Never heard of its hair removal properties though. HTH
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 03 November 2011 - 11:50
We got our day bed from Home Centre, you might want to try that? That was around a year ago though but still worth a look!
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 03 November 2011 - 10:23
Can't help with toffee, but whenever I make a pav, I turn off the oven and leave the door slightly open until it cools down completely (usually a few hours). Parchment paper usually peels off quite easily for me, are you using a tried and true recipe? I never had to turn a pav upside down, but whenever I make one in Dubai, its never as crunchy as the ones back home because of the humidity here...
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 03 November 2011 - 07:58
So sorry to hear you had that experience SK, I'm so upset on your behalf!! On the other hand if they lacked the simple courtesy of sending you a quick text, you probably don't want to know them anyway. And no you're not alone!! I once arranged a lunch with a lady who just arrived from my country, an hour before lunch I texted her directions and only then did she say that she had to go elsewhere!! I have no kids, don't work and don't club (don't own a car either). All I can say is keep your chin up, you'll meet people where you least expect it. I've made some really good friends here and they've been a blessing, so you just have to keep looking!!
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 03 November 2011 - 07:49
Here's another.."Greeting the rising sun with energy is a great way to start the day, unlike a crowing contest with the neighborhood rooster and the eventual shouting match with its owner. Welcome the dawn with grace and calm with today’s Groupon..." ...and that's for yoga classes!!!
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 November 2011 - 08:22
I haven't, but now I'm intrigued! I'm using Zuii Organics which is another Australian brand, they are certified organic, cruelty free and importantly, the products work for me. Other good brands are Lavera (for lipsticks) and Nvey Eco for eye-liners. Sorry I know that doesn't answer your question but if you end up getting Enkido please share your experience, I'm always on the lookout for good organic brands!
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 November 2011 - 08:15
Reading, blogging, and baking. I'd bake everyday if it wouldn't affect my health, but unfortunately 2 sticks of butter a day does wreck havoc on any diet! My other passion is playing the piano, but we don't own one here in Dubai and I haven't touched a key in almost a year =(
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 November 2011 - 08:11
I second (and third) Enid Blyton books! I started reading them when I was around her age and it really kept my interest in reading, even after moving on to classic literature I still find myself going back to Enid Blyton from time to time, her stories are just amazing! I'd recommend the 5 find-outers, it's about 5 friends who go about solving mysteries, very entertaining!
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 31 October 2011 - 16:28
I don't really see anything wrong with it. Bags and clutches are assessories, they're fashion statements and complete the outfit, so why not? Obviously there are some who just do it to show off their wealth but equally there are others who really just want the whole look!
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 27 October 2011 - 08:48
They have a facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/groups/fairygodmothersdubai/ You could also email them on: [email protected] HTH
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 October 2011 - 14:07
Which wax are you using? It may be worth paying slightly more for Lycon wax, or you could look into sugaring as well? These alternatives are much gentler on your skin and generally less painful as well.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 October 2011 - 08:55
I think that living in Penang will be completely different from living in KL. Penang is a laid back town popular for nature and good food, KL city center will not be much different from Dubai, infrastructure wise anyway. Its a bit of a concrete jungle, there's quite a lot of pollution (you can smell diesel walking through the city) and there are areas where you'll feel congested - its not all green and beautiful. That being said, there is a tropical forest reserve in the middle of the city so if you're looking to hike that's a good place to start. And for anyone planning a holiday to KL, I'd recommend a short break to the Banjaran Hot Springs Retreat in Ipoh. Its another state a few hours away from KL and absolutely breathtaking, its one of the most beautiful places in the world!
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 October 2011 - 08:34
I've had this for around 2 years, my dentist tells me that its because of teeth grinding (coming from stress). I don't take any treatment for it though because its just a mild annoyance at the moment, I can live with it as long as there's no pain.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 October 2011 - 13:19
Schooling: Depends on which schools your children are enrolled in. Good international schools such as GIS or Alice Smith could cost up to RM 20k per term. There are also private schools with a good mix of expats/local kids which may be significantly cheaper, but some may require knowledge of the Malay language as a prerequisite. Transport: Taxis are cheap and metered, if you're familiar with the area you could also agree on a set fare (may come in handy during peak traffic). In the city you'll be charged a flag rate of 2.00 and 10 cents for every 150m after. There's also a monorail around the city. General groceries: Really depends on where you shop. There are wet markets/night markets where locals usually do their weekly grocery shopping, you can build a relationship with the vendors and the prices are always reasonable. In my experience its much cheaper (and fresher) than what you get in Geant/Carrefour. Food: Street food/hawker stalls are dirt cheap and so yummy! We're talking about RM 10-20 per person for a main + 2 sides + drink. Fine dining can start at around 200 per person, but generally still cheaper than Dubai. Can't comment on rental or cars though, good luck on the move!
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 18 October 2011 - 08:25
You could be talking about Bice Mare at Souk Al Bahar? Its a traditional Italian restaurant, good food but pricey as to be expected at the location. Great view of the fountains, next to Rivington Grill if I recall correctly.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 October 2011 - 13:43
A friend sent me this link and I just had to share, stories like these make me count my blessings. Have a great weekend everyone! http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2048469/Soldier-returns-Iraq-surprise-daughter-school-spelling-bee.html
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 October 2011 - 15:38
I was born in a SE Asian country to parents of Chinese heritage but sound like a native Australian. It doesn't just happen in Dubai but people always ask me where I'm from. My first instinct is to state my nationality but I find that most people are not satisfied until I say that I'm Chinese, though my great great grandparents left China almost a century ago. I don't see why I have to limit myself to a single definition of where I'm from, I have Chinese heritage, was brought up in a SE Asian culture, married an Aussie and built a home and life with him in Australia - so really, the question is so open ended even I don't know how to answer it.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 09 October 2011 - 15:19
Thanks Derien!
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 October 2011 - 10:02
I feel for you Mrs Orchid, its incredibly unfair but as several has pointed out, it seems that your DH may just have to put up with that while he looks for another job. I won't have high hopes about complaining at MOL without any solid evidence. Sidetracking a little here but the corporate culture in Australia has always been to work to the bone. DH works in corporate finance and his contract would say 9-5 but there's also another clause that says he has to stay and finish his work even if it means being overtime. Before we moved to Dubai he was working past 7pm every week night, sometimes he doesn't come home and a lot of weekends have been spent at the office. This was the accepted culture at big 4 accounting firms and big law firms, my lecturers in university used to warn us about the sacrifices we have to make and I graduated with the knowledge that I will be giving up nights and weekends to work in that environment. Here in Dubai, DH leaves work at 4.30 and is home by 5.30. From this thread it sounds like we've just been incredibly lucky...
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 October 2011 - 09:46
I'm avoiding all Apple products at all costs, mainly because I am disgusted that a large American company with substantial influence is choosing to turn a blind eye to atrocities commited by their Chinese supplier. I think that if everyone stopped buying ipads or iphones, it would make both Apple and the Chinese government sit up and take notice. That however, would never happen because it seems that everyone I know nowadays own an Iphone (including DH).
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 October 2011 - 08:58
Hi Nadiya, The words 'natural' mean nothing, if you're looking for organic, look out for an organic certification (USDA or EcoCert are very stringent). You can also going onto the skindeep website which gives a safety rating for products based on their ingredients, try avoiding anything above level 3 (but read through the ingredients list first). NYR are pretty good with their ingredients, they don't seem to be certified organic but at least there are no parabens which should be avoided at all costs anyway. Burts Bees is also a good bet, again not certified organic but much less harmful. I personally use Aubrey Organics, not all their products are USDA certified but the shampoo I use is vegan, cruelty free and uses safe ingredients. HTH Hello SeaofLove - thanks for the details. I have been to that site which you have mentioned - unfortunately a lot of products for these brands are considered around 4 and above. Its really confusing! so I assume that NYR from my list of brands is probably the more organic and lower in chemicals than the rest? or i guess organic means natural but not less chemicals? I just went to the website and typed in NYR's Invigorating Seaweed Shampoo (just as an example, i haven't tried it). Its got a rating of 1 which is excellent, if you scroll down to the page you see that the most dangerous chemical in that product is Potassium Sorbate. Given that it was the last on the actual ingredients list, I assume that it is a very low percentage. The concern listed include allegies and to be honest that does not bother me too much as you can't avoid every allergent on the planet. Overall, the product seems to be quite safe to use. You just have to go through every product and its ingredients and make an informed choice. I would say that in comparison to Kiehls and Lush its probably the better choice (just my personal opinion) as most of the ingredients are organic.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 October 2011 - 08:39
Hi Nadiya, The words 'natural' mean nothing, if you're looking for organic, look out for an organic certification (USDA or EcoCert are very stringent). You can also going onto the skindeep website which gives a safety rating for products based on their ingredients, try avoiding anything above level 3 (but read through the ingredients list first). NYR are pretty good with their ingredients, they don't seem to be certified organic but at least there are no parabens which should be avoided at all costs anyway. Burts Bees is also a good bet, again not certified organic but much less harmful. I personally use Aubrey Organics, not all their products are USDA certified but the shampoo I use is vegan, cruelty free and uses safe ingredients. HTH
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 September 2011 - 07:43
I use Aubrey Organics, decent price and amazing range of shampoos. There's also an organic range (sorry, cant' remember the name) sold in Geant, I just tried the shower gel and its bliss! If you're concerned about the safety of your products, go to this website: http://www.ewg.org/skindeep/. You can type in the name of a particular product and a safety rating will come up for it, it also lists down any potentially dangerous chemicals. I personally avoid anything with a rating of 4 and above.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 September 2011 - 11:00
Don't have children but personally, I am so very very grateful that I am not an only child. My childhood memories are filled with all the things we did together (which was pretty much everything!), life just wouldn't be the same without a sibling.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 September 2011 - 19:49
Laydeeday, did he explain why antibiotics would affect your liver? Or did you mean that you take the former choice? I was on a course of roaccutane for 8 months and monthly liver function tests were mandatory every month. If you have to take tests, your usual GP would be able to go through them with you instead of paying expensive derm fees? That's what I did after my acne cleared up ( but continued with the meds ).
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 September 2011 - 19:28
Sent you an email SN, ask away =)
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 September 2011 - 15:04
No worries, drop your email addy here and I'll email you
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 September 2011 - 09:08
Dh and I pretty much settled in straightaway, we both loved to travel and have lived abroad before (not with each other) so we treated Dubai like a new adventure. We like this place despite it's quirks, but having our cats here makes it more like home. That being said, we have very few friends here. We're both very young, 22 and 24 now and been here 2 years, I was barely out of my teens when we moved! Dh looks older than his age, and we're a mixed couple so at first glance we fit a certain stereotype. I've heard some snide comments from strangers who didn't even have the courtesy of keeping their thoughts to themselves, and have been mistaken for a maid on numerous occasions. While I joke about this now I must admit that it was hurtful and coming from Australia, it was very new to me. Our age and the fact that we have no kids makes it hard to relate to most of the people we meet here, all of our friends have kids and while I love socialising with the parents, I still feel out of place at family barbecues where kids run amok. I have a tight knit group of friends back home and there are times when I just miss them to bits!
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 September 2011 - 08:29
DH and I used Skype, which can be very unrealiable and frustrating at times. You could install Whatsapp in your mobile phone so you can text each other for free, as long as internet is included in your pre-paid plan. No other ideas apart from that I'm afraid, when DH and I were living in separate countries normal calls were reserved for emergencies only, if Skype didn't work we would just IM each other on MSN messenger.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 September 2011 - 07:52
Bump for idea on prices pls? TIA JS, I read that everything is around 70% of the original price.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 20 September 2011 - 14:47
Glad I could help AA, hope everything gets sorted soon
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 September 2011 - 11:06
You could try contacting Migrante UAE, its an organisation promoting the rights of overseas Filipino workers. Website: migranteuae.org. HTH
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 September 2011 - 10:14
I used to fly with Jetstar frequently within Australia, never had a problem with them. They are obviousy a budget airline so you do pay for what you get (i.e. seats not too comfortable) but no different from the others.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 18 September 2011 - 10:35
We arrived at 10.30 and the big family box was sold out, so we got two small boxes of veg. There were green capsicums, alot of potatoes (more than a week's worth), tomatoes and portobello mushrooms. I was pretty disappointed by the lack of salad leaves but its still better than nothing.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 September 2011 - 14:31
Its not a gift basket, but you can get original newspapers and magazines from Paper World complete with certificates of authenticity. Website: paperworld.com.au
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 September 2011 - 14:14
:\: Off to double lock my doors now!! PS Its the name of a song
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 September 2011 - 13:49
hmmm, I will mention the Prime Gourmey butcher to hubby - sure he will be delighted to hear :) Seaoflove, what is the RIPE market? RIPE offers organic boxes of veg and fruits for collection at the Dubai Garden Center every Sat. From what I know, its a new company and the first market will be held this Sat - very excited about this!
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 September 2011 - 09:34
Ladies, watch the documentary movie 'Food Inc.' and you'll wish we could live of off Love & Air :-( It is appaling what our food has come to and it is not country specific, it's everywhere. Makes me miss life before Dubai, we used to grow our own organic veg in the backyard, I still remember the scent of beautiful lemons and herbs picked fresh from our garden. Its hard to make conscious and informed choices when there is so little information given on the produce. I avoid buying veg with the highest levels of pesticides (celery/salad leaves etc) unless they are organic, you can taste the difference but the high cost is a real pain. That being said, I'm looking forward to the RIPE market on saturday.
SeaofLove
317
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 September 2011 - 09:23
I have tried many Barefoot Contessa, Nigella and Jamie Oliver recipes with great results, BC in particular is always my go-to guide. Also recently tried some of Luke Nguyen's recipes and loved them so far. Because of the high fat and sugar content I only cook these dishes on special occasions. I still get ideas and inspiration from these shows but I modify them for healthy everyday meals.
 
 
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