SEY83 | ExpatWoman.com
 

SEY83

943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 29 February 2012 - 11:37
It's your wedding...you should defnitely be involved with the plans. I think you have to suss out her intentions though, if she really is trying to help then don't be insulted and instead be grateful, but you need to sit her down and explain to her (nicely) that she can't decide everything for you. You also need to get your husband's support and explain to him how you're feeling.
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 29 February 2012 - 11:24
I can't help you with where to take lessons, but my daughter's nursery offers a half hour of quran a week, and she (4 years old) has managed to learn surah al-ikhlas, so its definitely not too early for them. I'm thinking of Arabic/Quran lessons for her myself, and in particular would like to know if there are any schools that offer programmes over the summer months.
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 29 February 2012 - 11:19
We had an email from Taziz Property Management :) They manage the property - they are based in the sales centre, if you want to pick up a copy of the new roadmap :) I can see the roadmap from outside my window!! Have been watching them flatten and reflatten the roads for the last two years and was considering spending my free time laying down the red pavement bricks to help speed things along... How do you get these emails? Is it because you and Mushypeas are both homeowners?
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 29 February 2012 - 11:10
That's amazing news!!! It will be so nice to drive along and not have to dodge oncoming traffic trying to sneak in to BB from Downtown!! How did you know about this MB?
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 28 February 2012 - 10:34
apparently everyone gets logged out automatically every 4 hours. Tis a right pain if you're in the middle of writing a big post then have to log back in.... Ahhh good to know! But if that's the case then just remove the "remember me" box! Or change it to say "remember me for 4 hours!!!!" :D <em>edited by SEY83 on 28/02/2012</em>
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 28 February 2012 - 10:00
Search function doesn't always work for me either. Plus can I also add, that the constant having to re-sign in drives me insane!!! I click on remember me, always use the same computer, but it doesnt work! Even if I have just closed EW for an hour and haven't turned off my computer. Does this happen to anyone else? It's really annoying me :-(
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 February 2012 - 21:18
This whole story blows my mind...I dont understand how he was able to drive at 45 minutes at 160 kph without hitting anything. 45 minutes!!!! If you drove from Dubai to AD then the highway stretch alone would be over in about that long, and thats driving at 130ish!! I don't know, I just get the impression that this is one of those exaggerated stories...it was probably more like 10 minutes, but that doesnt sound as exciting!
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 February 2012 - 19:26
I'm not one hundred percent sure, but I'm pretty certain the answer is no. A copy of your residency is always a requirement at embassies, otherwise she will have to apply for the visa in Australia. It's worth callin them though.
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 February 2012 - 18:55
I think they were dating whilst he was studying to be an eye doctor in the UK. The plan was never for Bashar to be president, it was his eldest brother that was being groomed for presidency but he died in a car accident. Bashar was then brought back from the UK to take the place of his brother Bassel. I don't even think he finished his studies in the UK. When Hafez Al Assad died, Bashar was 34 and unmarried. The Syrian law stated a president had to be 40 and married. They conveniently changed the law to 34 and rushed his wedding. People had high hopes for Bashar being young and modern, married to a non-Alawite. You have to actually feel sorry for him, it's known he never wanted the presidency job in the first place. Now I think it's one of two things, either he is the nice guy in the wrong place, but ultimately is very weak and has absolutely no control over his government, or he's just as corrupt as the rest of them. Either way he needs to go, but I don't think it's him hanging on to the presidency, but people forcing him to stay in power so they can continue behind him. It's all very sad...
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 February 2012 - 17:33
is looking very sombre and so very far removed from her usual glamorous image. Photos of her at the elections the other day, dark clothes none of the bling or make-up and looking very stressed and worn out. Same a few weeks ago, when he brought her out along with the children for a show of support. A little bit of me feels some sympathy for her to have married an Eye Doctor. and to now find herself married to someone in the position he is is now. I really hope there is an end in sight soon. edited by mum2girls on 27/02/2012 She married him after he came into power, his father was president before he was..,it's safe to say she knew what she was marrying in to. And yes, she is a British national but her parents are originally from Homs.
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 February 2012 - 17:08
personally I'd rather see a Dr at a govt clinic! ;) I think I agree! At least they're not time-watching, prescribing the meds of the pharmaceutical companies that give the best payouts and sending you for a bunch of unneccesary tests!!! The Iranian Hospital is a good idea, I tried to suggest the same in my post that got deleted!
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 February 2012 - 17:02
Where did my reply on this disappear to?! I think it's harsh to accuse OP of being cheap because she asked for a reasonable priced doctor! I wouldn't go and see a doctor for myself if I was paying 350 odd for a consultation and then who knows how much extra for tests! Insurance makes a huge difference, and health care here is expensive.
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 February 2012 - 09:35
Try a company called Barjeel. They provide live-out maids for either 9 hours a day for 5 days a week, or 8 hours a day for 6 days a week and will send you the same maid everyday. The owner is a couple and the wife, Mrs. Ashraf, is usually the one to answer the phone. I have used them a lot before in the past as they are the only company that I could find which would give me a monthly rate as oppose to an hourly rate. They charge 2,500 Dhs per month. Their number is 04 2243252.
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 February 2012 - 09:23
Papa Johns...seriously too good...
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 26 February 2012 - 10:07
I've been living in an apartment that only allows electric cookers for the last two years. To be honest I dreaded switching, and I found it difficult at first, but now two years later i honestly dont think I would go back. Cooking can take a bit longer, especially dishes that need to be cooked for a longer time, as it takes longer for your saucepan to boil. For example, I make arabic coffee and on a gas cooker that boils in seconds, whereas on an electric cooker I can leave it and come back to it. Also, when I shallow fry, I dont have to constantly look over it to ensure I dont burn the bottom. Now that I'm used to it, I feel like my cooking is much more controlled and I love it. I also love that I don't have to worry about gas leakages, with the electric cooker you can just switch off the power. It gives me more peace of mind as I have small children and a maid at home alone. In my old apartment, my previous maid once forgot to swtich off the gas. We came home after about an hour and the whole house smelt of gas and she was at home with my 2 year old daughter. I thank God that it ended well, but I hate to think what could have happened. So electric cookers are a million times safer. I have an indesit, and would recommend it.
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 25 February 2012 - 00:56
I've been using the Pantene Clinicare and think its great! I Actually ran out a few days ago and have been using Pantene Herbal Fusions (which I used to love) and my hair just feels weird... Made me appreciate even more how good Clinicare is :)
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 25 February 2012 - 00:52
I'm from Aleppo originally, and it really is fantastic soap as its so natural. A lot of people in Aleppo use it as a soap and shampoo, because it's so good for u. I LOVE the smell - totally reminds me of Aleppo :-) Just be warned that the texture is a bit weird, u find that the bottom that's in the soap dish gets very squishy but that's normal and just the way it is! Also I never knew that Aleppo soap floats! U learn something new everyday...
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 22 February 2012 - 11:33
Try Right Bite. They say that they cater to children, so it might be worth enquiring if they do a lunch box program, as they tailor-make packages. I've never tried them myself, but know several people that have and the feedback on the standard and quality of food has been very positive.
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 21 February 2012 - 16:00
I just got my LO's 6 month vaccines done at 7 months and there was no issue. Poor thing bruised big time and ended up with two huge lumps on either thigh :-(
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 21 February 2012 - 15:58
Hi Norts, I have no idea how long it takes to get a passport here as I had my children in the UK so applied for their passports there (it takes about 6 weeks by post in the UK, but you can get them quicker, or same day if you go in person, but I don't know if you can do that at the Embassy here). I can tell you that I then flew back with both of them from the UK and they just get the tourist visa upon arrival in Dubai, the same like everybody else. We then applied for their residencies here.
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 21 February 2012 - 11:53
I love the Cinnabon cupcakes. Unfortunately they only have 3 flavours (chocolate, vanilla (my favourite) and red velvet), but they know how to make them very very well!!
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 February 2012 - 17:16
Let me do you a favour and suggest that you NEVER EVER try Auntie Anne's...the place is addictive, and the lady makes them fresh, so they come out hot from the oven...honestly they should be made illegal...I'm kind of hoping they're the first to go out of business, I can't drive past it every day and not want to stop (ok I don't really wish they would go out of business, but it would do wonders for my waist line)!!! LOOL @ salon...the sign actually says saloon!! I want to rip it out of the wall!!! Or maybe it will have cowboys that are the hair stylists...ooohhh that cud be fun... :-D
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 February 2012 - 17:09
That's it the black and white one! Ok so mystery solved...nearly caused an accident trying to read the sign whilst driving this afternoon...and I still couldn't read it! I know it says Saloon...but seriously isn't it salon??? Is it just me?!??! Aren't saloon's where the cowboys hang out??! Auntie Anne's is killing me...serioulsy it cant be legal for something to taste that good!
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 February 2012 - 17:03
Near Aster pharmacy towards BK, the signs are for a Falafel restaurant, and a restaurant (russian?) called Canteen, and then there is a Saloon :D for gents and Apollo flight centre and a car hire place. Alno near Aster is the London Dairy sign. You confused me! The old places I know, although I though it was a saloon (isn't it SALON!?!?!?!?) for ladies...oh well.. I was talking about the other side of Aster is you go towards Subway...is that the London Dairy? I think that sign just went up a few days ago but I cant read it??
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 February 2012 - 16:53
Looking forward to using the pool! Looks like its getting a bit more busy.. I have two under six so ideal or us after work/school. Cheers Be warned...unless they have magically been able to fix the pools, then the water is usually FREEZING! I suggest you go test out the temperature before u get ur kids dressed up and excited in their swimsuits. My 4 year old has been asking me if we can go swimming on a daily basis and so far aall she's getting from me is a big fat NO! Where is WHSmiths??? It must be quite far after Spinneys right? I enter and exit "the corridor" around where Tower H/J is, and I haven't seen it!! Is there anything else open that I've missed??! Also, there's a shop next to the Aster pharmacy as you go towards Tower H, but I couldn't read the sign - anyone know what that is?? Arrrggghhh finally...my constant frustration with the roads!!! So I'm thinking I just go and lay down the red bricks for the pavement myself, that seems to be all thats delaying them. The road around the back of Millenium Tower is completely finished and even has road markings, altho u hit sand around the Down Town side, but thats fine!!! I'm dreaming of roads, and not having to sneak in illegally down the one way road (so happy that is now wider :-) )... Ok now final, thought of one last thing...rents are definitely going up...
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 February 2012 - 12:18
Hi CapeChick, My eldest daughter suffered from colic and we spent a few weeks (around the 8 week mark) where she would just cry continuously for about 3 hours. After that, like yours, she would finally sleep. It took a lot of carrying her around, and I pretty much felt that my heart was breaking for her watching her cry and not being able to do anything. Firstly, Infacol is hit and miss. Some people swear that it works and others dont. With my eldest I only gave her infacol when she was actually suffering from colic and was crying - it didn't work!! With my youngest, I started infaacol pretty much from the first couple of weeks, and the advice from my Health Visitor and Midwife (back in the UK), was that you have to give the infacol before EVERY feed. This worked a charm with my youngest, she didn't suffer from colic at all (except odd episodes every few days) - and you can argue that it maybe because of the infacol, but likewise it may just be her. So my advice, is to carry on with the infacol but make sure you give it before every feed, whether she is suffering from colic or not. Secondly, I found that the best way for my children to deal with colic was to lie them on their tummy aacross my knees and rub their backs. Basically so that you putting pressure on their tummy which helps them relieve the gases in their stomach. So try that and see if it works. Don't worry - I know its a nightmare, but it does get better. By around 3 months the colic is usually over - I know that seems like ages away, but soon you'll see light at the end of the tunnel. Remember that for babies this is all new to them, so they don't know how to treat themselves, once they start getting used to their bodies and the way their body works it makes all the difference.
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 February 2012 - 12:06
Lifestyle have a huge selection. Different shapes, sizes, colours, price ranges...
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 February 2012 - 12:04
Try Shorooq in Mirdif - three beds are nice, and there in a nice compound (altho no facilities I think). The last I heard was that the 3-beds were 136,000 and include a maids room. They're a good size, but there may be a waiting list - definitely worth checking out.
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 February 2012 - 10:37
Executive Towers? Good prices, central location, near the metro...
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 February 2012 - 10:13
Brittany Murphy?
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 16 February 2012 - 17:58
I don't know if this is of any use to you, but there was a LivingSocial deal today for planning a kids birthday party with a company called Purple Frog. I have never used them, but the deal is that you pay 1,000 Dhs instead of 2,000 Dhs for a kids birthday party upto 25 children.
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 February 2012 - 17:18
Hi Orchard, I haven't got a clue about GRDS to be honest - it would be good if somebody can shed some light. I left my daughter at nursery to do FS1, there are advantages and disadvantages. Nurseries are smaller so easier for children to adapt, and they generally have smaller class sizes and shorter hours (plus fees considerably less if you're personally paying). The disadvantage is that its harder to get into schools - apparently it's easier to get children into FS1 at school because there is less demand (legal required age for schooling is FS2). I would say keep trying for FS1, a good indicator is if you view your child as ready. How are their social skills, etc? Usually the nursery teacher can advise you as well. If you get a place for FS1 at a school then you will have to make the decision. Alternatively put your child's name down on waiting lists for FS2 2013 from now which gives you a much bigger chance of getting the school you want. I am 100% happy with the decision to leave my daughter at nursery, but everyone is different.
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 February 2012 - 16:09
Carrefour definitely has them. Strange you didn't find any at Ace, that's where I got both of my safes from - did you try the big Ace at Festivaal City?
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 February 2012 - 16:06
where can i get one of those IP nanny cams? and how much would it cost me You can get them from any of the Etisalat branches, and they're around 650 Dhs. You then need to buy a SIM card which you place in the camera and you can make video calls (you need a phone that does video calls) to the camera which is charged at a rate of 0.75 fils per minute. It's quite good because the camera rotates, zooms, etc. I have one in my living room, they also do continuous recording but I don't use it. My maid knows its there. CDXB I know how you feel, leaving your baby at home with a maid/nanny is tough, especially for the first few weeks. Trust me it gets easier, many days I'm so busy I don't even call. I don't use it to check on my maid, but to check on my baby - it puts a smile on my face to see her playing when I've had a long day. I trust my maid completely so I definitely don't feel like I am spying on her, and I have reassured my maid of the same.
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 February 2012 - 11:34
I've always used underwired bars even while pregnant.. not so much of an issue. Think none at all. Same here...I've never swtiched bras while pregnant and I've had no issue breastfeeding. BF first for 9 months, and LO now 7 and a half months and still breastfeeding. Enjoy underwired bras whilst you can. I've been in nursing bras for the last 7 and a half months and I HATE IT!!!! Can't wait to burn the things!! <em>edited by SEY83 on 14/02/2012</em>
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 February 2012 - 15:03
I did this for both of my pregnancies and it worked out perfectly fine, I travelled back to the UK at 36 weeks and I didn't have any issues. I did tell them that I was in Dubai and took all of my antenatal notes with me. In honesty they only really cared about my blood tests. What I did do straight away though, is inform my GP in the UK that I'm pregnant so she opened a file for me. I also travelled back to the UK twice during my first pregnancy and once during my second and made sure that I visited the midwife whilst I was there. The midwife prepared my Green NHS maternity notes book and registered me at the hospital. My notes clearly stated I had my antenatal treatment in Dubai, and I was very open about it all, but nobody asked me to pay for my treatment and I was able to go through the NHS. When I returned to the UK at 36 weeks I resumed antenatal care in the exact same way as everybody else in the UK. However, I have heard that different parts of the UK are different. I'm from the West Midlands, however I know somebody from London who found the whole thing more difficult as they were more skeptical about her going through the NHS, even though they did allow it at the end. I recommend you try and speak to your GP in the UK to see if they can open a file for you. I have another friend who travelled last week to go back to the UK, but she's turning up unregistered at a GP and is going to see how it goes, even if she has to go down the private route.
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 February 2012 - 14:44
Hansten I don't think having different interests or personalities is a bad thing at all. In fact, I actually think that opposites compliment each other quite well. I think it may take longer for you both to get used to each other and to learn to accept your differences, but once you do you actually end up with something quite special as you get to view situations from two different angles and end up making an evaluated decision. I think you have to prepare yourself for some heated debates in the first couple of years when you don't see eye to eye, but after that you just begin to understand each other, and to an extent you both change and become more similar without even realising thaat it happens. I think it's healthy for a relationship to have different hobbies and interests, if he wants to stay at home and watch tv whilst you go out with your friends then that should be fine as long as you're both agreed. You can't force him to go places and he shouldn't force you to stay at home - thats when the issues arise. I love my husband dearly, but I'm very thankful for the "me" time that I get, and I think its important as our time together is then quality time. Having said this, it doesn't mean live separate lives - its give and take. Sometimes you do what he wants, sometimes he does what you want and sometimes you do your own thing. It sounds to me like you are willing to give this a chance, and I think you should, but be very open and honest with him that you are unsure of your feelings so that he is under no false pretences, and then let him decide if he wants to pursue a relationship or not. I honestly don't think you have anything to lose, in fact it may be a good thing. If you try being a couple and it doesn't work, then maybe that will help him get over his feelings for you. Alternatively, it might turn out to be something beautiful. Just be honest with him.
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 February 2012 - 14:24
It's Wellington Primary School, which is behind the Shangri-La, next to the Al Badae Clinic and the Canadian University. I registered back in September and they are now allocating spots. I know they do now have a waiting list though, but I think you have a better shot there than many of the other schools. They do have the 500 Dhs registration fee though. Have you tried GEMS Royal Dubai School? I got a rejection letter from JPS today, but in the letter they stated that GRDS still have places and are taking registrations on a first come first serve basis. They sell the school well in the letter! I googled it and its near Mirdif, which may or may not be ideal depending on your location. I know how you feel mk-in-dubai, and this whole school thing is very stressful. It might be worth enquiring with GRDS to at least make sure your child has a seat somewhere for next year.
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 February 2012 - 10:52
Hi Suzq, just send them an email. Based on this thread I just sent an email to the registrar (email address on their website) and she responded straight away by emailing me the registration form. I then filled it in and emailed it back to her, and voila my daughter is now on their waiting list (and no registration fee for a change!!!!). I think the registrars are all working this week, as I have contacted several schools this week in my frantic panic to find a place for FS2 2012. Although I got an acceptance email from WPS this morning...so relieved and so happy to have a place somewhere :-D I really was beginning to panic...I thought I had done the right thing by applying in September 2011 for September 2012, apparently that is too late for many schools :-(
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 February 2012 - 22:58
Ok I'm writing this whilst mentally preparing myself for all the backlash (some of you EW ladies are tough!!). In all honesty my 4 year old doesn't go to bed until around 9pm and sometimes even 9:30. My 7 month old, probably falls asleep somewhere around 10pm and then I get a couple of hours with my husband before I go to sleep. I know that seems very late to some people, but I work and don't get home until around 5:30pm. If my kids were in bed by 7pm, then I will have only have spent a couple of hours with them and my husband wont have seen them at all. I just feel like I didn't have children to then not spend time with them, I already feel guilty that I work and leave them at home all day. Now in all honesty I'm lucky because my 4 year old doesn't wake up until 7:30am, as she still goes to nursery and so doesn't have to be up at some ridiculous hour. Likewise, with the baby, I'm happy for her to sleep in late in the morning as I figure less time with the maid during the day, and more time with me at night is better for her. At the weekend, I'm happy for them to stay up longer, as the good thing is both will sleep in late if they go to bed late. This routine works for us. I know some people won't agree, but for me its the way I get to spend more time with my kids. Having said all this, next year I'm sure we're all going to be sleeping earlier - all the schools I have applied at have said that kids have to be in by 7:30am! Bring on the 6:00am mornings :-(
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 08 February 2012 - 15:02
Awww that's ashame!! Good thing you called and checked. Definitely put it on your list of places to try, but make sure you go when the weather is nice because they really do have a lovely outdoor seating area.
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 08 February 2012 - 14:33
It depends how long she has been with the company for. I think, and ladies correct me if I'm wrong, you get 21 days base salary (i.e. not benefits) for every year you have served with the company for the first five years, and then you get 30 days salary for all additional years.
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 08 February 2012 - 14:31
Al Muna is in Madinat Jumeirah, in the Mina Al Salem hotel. You can valet park at the Mina Al Salem. Buffet was 195 per person I think - I cant remember if that includes soft drinks or not, your best bet is to call them.
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 08 February 2012 - 14:29
Usually the t-shirt printing kiosks in the malls have lots of different coloured plain t-shirts. Also, Okaidi used to do plain t-shirts in various colours, although I'm not sure if they still do.
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 08 February 2012 - 14:05
We went to Al Muna - food was lovely! Plus if the weather is nice, it's lovely to sit outside, you sit right next to the water canal.
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 08 February 2012 - 09:44
It depends what you mean by locked. If you're refering to trying to use the phone with another sim card, then you have to either do what Sumi suggested (which may be difficult if your iPhone uses a microsim) or just call etisalat. If you're referring to "locked" as in so of the features don't work, then yes, usually iphones from etisalat are locked. The feature that is primarily disabled is Facetime (still dont understand the logic to this!!!) but some countries have disabled Facetime so when you buy your phone from Etisalat then this feature simply doesn't exist on your iphone. Plus you can't download it. What you can do is jailbreak your phone and then install it. Skype is another option, but I think even Skype cant be downloaded, but I may be wrong about this. Alternatively, when purchasing your iphone, dont go through Etisalat - many of the retailers sell factory unlocked iphones which has all features. Once you have a device that has Facetime, it works perfectly with wifi.
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 07 February 2012 - 20:49
Yeah I know exactly what it feels like...I've been on maternity leave twice, and my company are fantastic so I can't really fault them at all... I just wish maternity leave was as long as in other countries. Apparently some companies here don't even let u have the full 45 days, and make up all sorts of reasons to justify u having to come in to work earlier. I know somebody that was allowed 20 days off for maternity leave...I've had holidays significantly longer than that!
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 07 February 2012 - 20:26
Is it bad that I would love there to be some shops??!! I would love to have a few retail outlets I can browse thru when I'm bored... Oh and in complete contrast to Muesli Bar, I would love a McDonald's!!!!
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 07 February 2012 - 20:18
Unfortunately yes, unpaid is unpaid. My company allowed me to take unpaid maternity leave and I got no salary or benefits for the unpaid time, the only thing that still stood was my medical insurance, but that's probably only because you're insured anyways. I remember reading the labour law, and legally ur not even entitled to unpaid leave unless you are medically unfit to return to work, so just be thankful that they're allowing u unpaid leave in the first place. I know it sounds harsh (and it is!!) but I guess that's the law here :-(
943
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 06 February 2012 - 12:53
If you do want to fly direct then the cheapest option, I have always found, is Virgin Atlantic. I just booked flights for Easter, and the cost for 1 adult was 2760 Dhs (compared to Emirates at 4000+). I'm travelling the weekends either side of Easter, my husband is travelling on Easter weekend and its more expensive at 3,360, but then everything else is more expesive as well. The cheapest option though was Qatar and I've tried them before and not had any complaints at all. I think the flights at Easter were around 2300 (this was a couple of weeks ago). I opted for Virgin in the end because I'm travelling with a child and infant and preferred direct flights.