ShellAR | ExpatWoman.com
 

ShellAR

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Latest post on 06 June 2014 - 07:27
Thanks everyone, lots of different advice here. Yesterday I could hardly walk and today I'm fine. My DH thinks its bits of rubbish, gristle and pieces of losse bone in my knees that move about and today they are settled, so its ok. I would like to get the correct diagnosis and get them fixed. Amelia, we don't have insurance because we found it was ridiculously expensive here. We made the decision that if we needed treatment we'd either go home for it if it was major, or if it was a car accident, treatment at Rashid Hospital was free. I'd much rather have insurance for peace of mind, who do you use and does it cost an arm and a leg, so to speak? Thanks e eryone for your replies. <em>edited by ShellAR on 06/06/2014</em>
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Latest post on 05 June 2014 - 13:21
Brilliant quick reply, thanks Geordie Girl. Now, try to see Carole Smilie or go somewhere like the Bone and Joint Centre?
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Latest post on 05 June 2014 - 12:59
My daughter takes all of her jewellery there to be dipped and they never charge her either. I think they get their goodwill back ten fold as we always shop there and take all of our visitors there.
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Latest post on 19 April 2014 - 01:56
DuGym is fabulous 050 553 6283
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Latest post on 19 April 2014 - 01:54
I was in a Salon in Thailand where a girl said "Madam, you so fat now". Like I needed to be told I'd put on weight. Thanks.
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Latest post on 15 April 2014 - 04:03
Our Service Fees are around AED 15,000 per yesr in Savannah. Garage doors are allowed, most of our street have them. It gives us lots more secure storage space. Hope this helps.
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Latest post on 13 April 2014 - 05:15
There is a huge car park by the Gold Souk. You can walk to the Old Souk from there.
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Latest post on 08 April 2014 - 16:58
UK news has just said no sign of drugs or substance abuse. Apparently she's only been earing veggies for weeks! Didn't know salad could kill you.
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Latest post on 08 April 2014 - 00:40
I am currently in the USA helping my little sister who has stage 3 breast cancer and is also a single mother of 3 children, the youngest of which is just 3 years old. My sister works full-time. I am doing the school run, cooking, cleaning out cupboards, laundry and anything that is needed so my sister can concentrate on working when she can and all of her hospital appointments and chemo sessions. I have put my life on hold for 2 months, as in my book - Family come first. I will be back after summer to help her after surgery for a mastectomy. Our other sister died age 44 from Pancreatic cancer. She had 4 children. I hate cancer! I would also say go home, where you have a family network to help you out when you need it. Good luck with your treatment. Please let us know how you get on. <em>edited by ShellAR on 08/04/2014</em>
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Latest post on 11 March 2014 - 15:38
You could join the Hash House Harriers. They are a bunch of male and females who enjoy a good social. They meet an hour before sunset on a Sunday night for a regular run, walk, chat etc. Then they have lots of socials, desert camps, dining in the desert, desert safari's, camping on a farm in Hatta and lots of birthday parties and brunches to celebrate members birthdays etc. In fact about 10 of our members are currently at an Interhash event in China at this very moment. Google deserthash.org for local hash venues and timings Hope to see you there
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Latest post on 07 March 2014 - 08:04
Blast, I did C4 yesterday but didn't do the cereal aisle. Bet they're gone by next week!
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Latest post on 05 March 2014 - 23:29
My grandchikdren adore each other. We were happy to have one grandchild, we are ecstatic now to have two. They are hard work, I don't know how my daughter manages, day after day, with never a day off. But, today they brought a tear to my eyes, they held hands in the car on our way to the petting Zoo, and the baby is only 15 months old. Adorable. You must do what is right for you.
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Latest post on 04 March 2014 - 15:33
When my maid left, after several uears of loyal service, I gave her a big thank you, out of my own gratuity payment from my company. I had two little ones and couldn't have gone to work if they were sick or anything, without my maid. She did not ask for anything, normdid she expect it. But she was very grateful for it. And I felt good that I'd done the 'right' thing. I think its called Karma. I wouldn't give your maid anything, for giving you this stress! Good Luck.
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Latest post on 17 February 2014 - 15:54
No, I'm sorry but I don't know his surname. I don't know how to use twitter and won't find him on Facebook without a surname I guess. Such a shame, he's brilliant with a pair of scissors.
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Latest post on 01 February 2014 - 17:45
My son and my daughter both use a sort of back pack that clips very snugly on the toddlers and has a nice lead to hang on to. One is a turtle and looks nice, and the kids love it. If you want me to ask my son which website he ordered it from let me know and I'll ask him.
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Latest post on 01 February 2014 - 17:42
I take my normal, cheap bike to Adventure HQ and the guys there are very nice and helpful whether its an inner tube change or complete service and new gears and chain or just fixing a bell and lights on for me. I'd highly recommend them. They are pretty quick too. I went to that well known place a couple of years ago and they couldn't fit me in for weeks, so I found Adventure HQ. i'm glad I did.
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Latest post on 18 January 2014 - 08:55
I live at the Ranches and love it. I take my dog for long walks, the perimeter paths around the Ranches is 10k and a lovely walk or run, if you can. Its a lovely community, we have shops, golf club for drinks, supper and even golf if you play. We also have a feeder bus to Mall of the Emirates where you can get the Metro to everywhere in Dubai, if you don't want to drive. I would recommend joining the Hash www.deserthash.org. They are a group of expats who meet every Sunday evening an hour before sunset for a walk or run and socialising afterwards. Not only do you get some exercise and food and drink after the run/walk, you get a group of like-minded expats who have plenty of events and parties going on from desert safari's, camping trips, and lots of entertainment. This weekend there were 2 events on Thursday, 1 on Friday and tomorrow is the regular hash night again. Your housing budget is very generous so you should find a lovely villa with pool for that and your kids will love coming to visit you and get a nice tan by your pool. I know mine do. If you need any more help, don't hesitat to ask.
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Latest post on 12 January 2014 - 12:00
Ok, so I didn't do the order myself, my son did it for me so I've just checked the confirmation e-mail and it actually came from Apple in Ireland. He did the order online, it was engraved and delivered by DHL, free delivery I think, and I got it about 5 days later. That's why I thought it was ordered locally.
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Latest post on 11 January 2014 - 22:46
I bought my DH a new IPod, which was engraved for me bu Apple. I ordered it from their website locally. My DH loves it.
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Latest post on 21 November 2013 - 06:18
We got a loan from the Uk against our house in the UK, so it was at a very (and I mean VERY) low interest rate. This does make things easier here as WE own the property and not the finance company/bank. We wouldn't be able to afford to live here if we hadn't bought a property as we are now semi-retired. So we live in our gorgeous house, near our grandchildren at a fraction of the cost of renting and we have the added luxury of knowing a Landlord can't throw us out "to move a relative in"! It really does give peace of mind. Good luck with your purchase.
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Latest post on 21 November 2013 - 06:06
Thank you very much, we went last night and it was delicious. I Don't think AED 150 for 3 of us for fish and crispy prawns was cheap, but it was delicious. Yes, it was busy but we only had to wait about 20 mins, so the same as a 5 star restaurant really. I'd highly recommend it for someone who's done most other experiences in Dubai.
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Latest post on 19 November 2013 - 22:31
Does anyone have any information on the fish restaurant on the beach? I've heard how they get the plastic stools out and the fish is fresh from the fisherman, but where exactly is it, and what time do they serve the food? Thanks. <em>edited by ShellAR on 19/11/2013</em>
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Latest post on 16 November 2013 - 19:00
Ha ha, I think its too far to swim, but thanks. Flying looks easy, but they wanted to do a scenic, touristy route. So, could he drive through Saudi with his daughter with no visa issues?
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Latest post on 15 November 2013 - 22:11
Yes, we paid around Dhs 22,000. The best part of it was for a Trade Licence that we were not given, cannot trade with, but had to pay for. It would be very useful if my husband could use the Trade Licence we paid for as he is a self employed consultant, but without a trade licence, he can't consult in the UAE, even though there is plenty of work here for him! When we started the process, we had no idea it would cost over Dhs20,000. You pay a few hundred and have to go back, the. You pay a couple of thousand, and go back and pay this and that and keep having to go back again. We did it ourselves, and it took about 2 months. Yes, we had the Dhs 3,000 visa from Emaar about 7 years ago, which was much easier and cheaper. At least we are legal for 2 years. We'll probably have to leave then edited by ShellAR on 15/11/2013 <em>edited by ShellAR on 15/11/2013</em>
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Latest post on 15 November 2013 - 07:09
My husband and I got one about 6 months ago. What do you want to know?
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Latest post on 14 November 2013 - 13:15
Report it to your security guard at the gate or the office by the main gate at Arabian Ranches. They are very good and will co e around and remove the offending branch.
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Latest post on 14 November 2013 - 13:15
Report it to your security guard at the gate or the office by the main gate at Arabian Ranches. They are very good and will co e around and remove the offending branch.
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Latest post on 14 November 2013 - 13:14
We did Al Ain Zoo with alls the grandkids and it was fantastic. Spent the whole day there, plenty of shade, but wear a hat of course. We all loved it and can't wait to do it again. Like you, we started early and made a whole day of it. Enjoy! Don't know anything about the Ahlan service, sorry.
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Latest post on 13 November 2013 - 07:53
Hi, A friend wishes to travel from Bahrain to Qatar with his daughter. Is there a ferry doing this route? Is there a tourist bus. How would you do the journey to maximise sightseeing? Are there visa issues? Your advice would be greatfully appreciated. Thanks in advance
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Latest post on 11 November 2013 - 14:42
This is what I like about Expatwoman - the nice ladies. Thank you
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Latest post on 11 November 2013 - 12:50
I have a Global bread knife which is absolutely amazing. I feel that I could slice my loaf into 100 slices if I wanted to, its fantastic. Global knives aren't cheap though. I've just check on Amazon and the Global bread knife costs £89, which is Dhs 523. I bought my set of Global knives in Tavola Mall of the Emirates and they were much cheaper than the UK.
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Latest post on 11 November 2013 - 12:50
I have a Global bread knife which is absolutely amazing. I feel that I could slice my loaf into 100 slices if I wanted to, its fantastic. Global knives aren't cheap though. I've just check on Amazon and the Global bread knife costs £89, which is Dhs 523. I bought my set of Global knives in Tavola Mall of the Emirates and they were much cheaper than the UK.
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Latest post on 08 November 2013 - 08:34
Good Luck on your wedding today TDB. Half of Dubai are waiting to hesr what a beautiful day you have. We'd love to see some photos. Enjoy!
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Latest post on 25 October 2013 - 10:34
I went to Black Place Beach, near Dubai College last Friday and there were 2 horses galloping back and forth. It was lovely to see them and the Police didn't bother them.
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Latest post on 25 October 2013 - 07:37
So sorry to hear of your sad loss. We were much luckier. Living here in Dubai literally saved my DH life! We had the usual warnings, got a colonoscopy and found he had colon cancer. Our medical insurers medivacked us back to UK. We took the test results, knew where the cancer was and the size of it etc. Our doctor fast-tracked us through the system and he got an appointment with the specialist in one month. We decided not to wait, flew back and had the colon resection the next day. We had to pay, but that is the best investment I have ever made! Our surgeon in Dubai could not believe they would wait one month before even seeing my DH. The cancer had grown a lot during the week it took us to go to UK and back again. Luckily it had not grown through the colon wall and into other organs. Thankfully I still have a DH of 39 years, my kids have their Dad and grandchildren have some precious moments with grandad.
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Latest post on 18 October 2013 - 19:22
Mostafawi by metro station near Karama have done ours several times. Good, reasonable service and they come when they say they will.
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Latest post on 14 October 2013 - 09:27
I always tell our visitors the house Rule which is "If we have it, you are welcome to it and if you use the last one, p,ease write it on the board and we'll replace it". I think that makes them feel welcome, and that they can help themselves to a beer, glass of wine or cup of tea. Saves me running around getting drinks for them all day. Then, when we go to the supermarket, we check the board to see what we need. Our friends always split the bill, they know they are onto a good deal as we usually use vouchers, so its cheaper to go with us than on their own. Roll on my UK Half Term visitors next week.
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Latest post on 14 October 2013 - 09:13
We use SnS all the time, it not only gets here but it arrives super quick. Be sure not to put the value too high though as customs put on a handling charge, sometimes as much as AED 200! I think customs is free if its under £35. Lots of thngs have never arrived when sent by airmail so I would highly recommend SnS.
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Latest post on 13 October 2013 - 05:38
I'd love to do Bed and Breakfast in Dubai - I have a lovey villa, pool, garden, good location for bus and metro tec. After all I do it all the time for family and friends, I'd love to do it for a business but I fear its illegal here. About 7 years ago, several guests stayed at a B&B when they came for my daughter's wedding, it was good, budget accommodation. Not sure why theyndon't allow it here.
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Latest post on 13 September 2013 - 07:23
Thanks, that's exactly what I needed to hear to encourage me to take the dog for an hour's walk, rather than a 10 minute summer walk.
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Latest post on 12 September 2013 - 17:05
I bought a large Budda the day before we left Thailand as a keepsake. When thepackers arrived, they said it wasn't allowed to pack the Budda as it was sacred. I wrapped it in a towel and bought it here in our suitcase. No problem. Still love it!
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Latest post on 11 September 2013 - 10:02
We used this company, and in particular Mr David Rae and they were brilliant. We now need some more work done and there is no answer from their phones. Has anyone used them recently? Thanks in advance.
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Latest post on 11 September 2013 - 05:25
We got a company to fit them for us. I think our whole roof is covered by solar panels. Don't know, we can't get up there.
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Latest post on 09 September 2013 - 12:19
I'd definitely ask him for the receipt and get what you want. My DH always buys me shoes in a size 5. I am a 5.5 or even a 6 these days. So, I can never wear my new fitflops on Christmas Day as they are always too small. Last year I asked him what size he would buy me and he said "Size 5, the ones I always buy you". I pointed out that they were always too small but he stuck to his guns as he ALWAYS buys me size 5! Try to train him whilst he's young. <em>edited by ShellAR on 09/09/2013</em>
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Latest post on 09 September 2013 - 12:14
Hi, We have the steel and gunite pool. Up to you if you install a heater/chiller. We don't need one as we don't use the pool when its too cold, Dec, Jan, Feb time. We have solar heating which extends our use by a month to six weeks after others stop using theirs and we can use it about a month to 6 weeks earlier if we put the solar heating on. I guess we use our pool for 9 months of the year. We do use it absolutely every day. We have some shade so it doesn't get too hot in July and August. We love ours and wouldn't be without it. Good luck
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Latest post on 09 September 2013 - 12:01
Hi Fran, Did you go last night? If you did, I'm sure they made you very welcome. I'm so sorry but I've been in bed with flu for 3 days. Was hoping to recover by last night but it didn't happen. Feeling much better today though.
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Latest post on 09 September 2013 - 11:59
How much are they asking for them now? I was interested in the first few that were renovated at AED 75,000 per year but I expect they are asking too much money for these ones now. They are after all just prefabs.
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Latest post on 07 September 2013 - 19:36
Hi Fran, The Desert Hash are currently meeting at 6.15 so you should just be able to get there on time. Yes, of course you are welcome to join the Barbie hash any time. All ladies welcome. First Tuesday of the month. Unfortunately you've just missed one last week.
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Latest post on 07 September 2013 - 08:39
Do you work on Sundays? Do you finish work by 5.30pm? If you can get away, why not try the Desert Hash? Its a running club with a difference. They run or walk an hour before sunset and then socialise afterwards. Look them up on deserthash.org. Hashes are all over the world, and are always a good place to meet new people. Only last week I went on the Desert Hash on Sunday, had a nice walk in the desert followed by supper. I went on the Barbie Hash on Tuesday night, this is a group of girls who meet on the first Tuesday of the month for a little gentle exercise followed by bubbles and supper. On Wednesday I went on the Creek Hash, a walk around Jumeirah followed by drinks and food and socialising. There was a party last night but I was hashed out. There is usually a party or get together almost every weekend. Its a great way to meet new people. We've often had wedding of people who met on the hash. Come and join us. Everyone welcome.
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Latest post on 16 July 2013 - 04:29
Thanks Blossom Hill. What are you doing up at this ungodly hour?