siennachick | ExpatWoman.com
 

siennachick

siennachick
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Latest post on 24 March 2013 - 08:17
Thank you all so much for your replies! We have decided that India is not the place for us, before I start a debate (not my intention) we do not feel that it will be the family holiday we could relax on, so have booked elsewhere. I am sure India is a fantastic place and lots to see, however just not the place for us at the present time.
siennachick
94
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Latest post on 17 March 2013 - 13:30
Thank you!
siennachick
94
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Latest post on 17 March 2013 - 10:38
Is their one at the Dubai airport?
siennachick
94
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Latest post on 17 March 2013 - 08:18
Dragon Mart has an entire shop full of medals and trophies! Got loads their recently.
siennachick
94
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 January 2013 - 19:27
Forgive me here....but shouldn't you take the entire salary into consideration when accepting the positon?? As we all do!! Just because the school fees arent paid directly to the school but into your salary instead, isn't our problem! Emirates yes pay the school fees and housing etc, but the monthly salary is lower! When we accepted my husbands position we RESEARCHED everything! School fee costs, housing etc!! Weighed it all up to see if it was worthwhile, no nobody can predict such a huge increase in school fees rent etc...but please dont disrespect the Emirates contract and people because our salary structure happens to be different. We too are going to be out of pocket as the huge fee increase wont be covered by our "allowance" just like your "salary" wont include the increase. For goodness sake.....stop being so childish and next time before you accept a job read all the terms and conditions and research school costs etc if you have children, if you dont like it dont accept the job! [b'>Ahmen sienachick![/b'> We did the same as should everyone else and stop blaming EK for what they assume is this amazing package! Do your due diligence and make a decision from there. It appears that EK has an incredible package, and compared to some others, it is a good one. But, there are better packages out there, why not pick on them? edited by Rickadon on 09/01/2013 edited by Rickadon on 09/01/2013 Oh, here we go, the 'if you don't like it blah, blah blah' argument. Most people who come here DO research the expenditures that are expected with living here. However, when having to deal with a sudden massive and unacceptable hike in school fees, then that is unforeseen. Some of us are lucky to have their school fees, rent paid paid by our employers, most people I know in Dubai don't or now have their allowances capped. Due to the massive price hikes in rent and school fees over the last several years, many companies have scrapped or limited them. For many of us, these fees increased with such speed, most allowances couldn't keep up. Also many people couldn't just up and leave as they had commitments here. Out of interest, when researching 'everything' as you point out above, did you allow in your budget scenarios such as this? We all expect an increase in various fees here over time, it's normal. But this increase is ridiculous and you cannot criticise the people on here complaining about if. I wasnt criticising people for complaining about the increase I was defending Emirates people being "blamed" for the increase! At the end of the day, we still have to pay the difference in the fee's too!!!!! So I am not happy about the stupid increase!!! I am on everyones side here, just dont like to hear facts that arent right about Emirates, we will be out of pocket just like everyone else! However we will be fighting it, if not will find another school.....which I am sure JC realise will be difficult. To answer you question while doing our "research" no didn't predict such a huge percentage increase way above the normal! But did factor in that Emirates supplies our housing, DEWA and 80% of our school fees.
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 January 2013 - 18:39
Thanks Rickadon! Sick of having to defend Emirates and our "package" to people who really dont know, but assume alot!
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 January 2013 - 18:27
D'you think GEMS feel they have an (EK) captive audience? DH's co have not increased sch fees allowance in 4 years.... Like our housing allowance are we the only people in this situation? Not at all. A great many companies here do not pay for housing *or* school fees, they just pay a monthly salary and it's up to the employees to cover everything out of their own pockets. Forgive me here....but shouldn't you take the entire salary into consideration when accepting the positon?? As we all do!! Just because the school fees arent paid directly to the school but into your salary instead, isn't our problem! Emirates yes pay the school fees and housing etc, but the monthly salary is lower! When we accepted my husbands position we RESEARCHED everything! School fee costs, housing etc!! Weighed it all up to see if it was worthwhile, no nobody can predict such a huge increase in school fees rent etc...but please dont disrespect the Emirates contract and people because our salary structure happens to be different. We too are going to be out of pocket as the huge fee increase wont be covered by our "allowance" just like your "salary" wont include the increase. For goodness sake.....stop being so childish and next time before you accept a job read all the terms and conditions and research school costs etc if you have children, if you dont like it dont accept the job!
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 November 2012 - 08:31
Lane discipline and breaking distances seem to be alien concepts. Yes, totally agree and indicators I think here must be an optional extra when buying a car, as not very many people seem to use them or know what they are! Hazard lights yes however....I think some drivers put the hazards on before they have even thought to brake! ;)
siennachick
94
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 November 2012 - 08:28
No, but you do get used to it, especially the stopping wherever they want and put their hazards on, or reversing back because they missed their exit, I could be here all day listing what I have seen....my pet hate however is still when the driver has their seatbelt on but their children are standing between the two front seats, or worse hanging out the window! That is something I will never understand, but I guess as much as it frustrates and disgusts me, nothing will ever change their mentality or culture, so I just have to breathe deeply and stop myself from winding the window down and pointing out the obvious.....
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 September 2012 - 12:55
My daughter cannot not have the local milk here either, actually makes her asthma really bad, however in the USA or anywhere else in Europe etc, she can have the milk with no problems, however here as soon as she drinks it, she gets the asthma cough, so I now buy the French organic milk and she has no problem what so ever, quite scary the amount of people here that have told me similiar stories about the milk and chicken. No idea what they add or do, but I wont be ever buying local products again, concerned that the regulations here are not adhered to or as strict and wonder what the long term effects will be?
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 August 2012 - 13:56
Thanks so much bmdrtr! I really appreciate your advice! :)
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 August 2012 - 13:00
Jillp!! Thank you so very much!! Yes it has helped alot and much appreciated, thanks again for your response.
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 August 2012 - 09:26
Anybody.....??
siennachick
94
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 August 2012 - 10:18
Thanks so very much!!
siennachick
94
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 August 2012 - 09:03
Does anyone know if I can get to it without having to go onto the Trade Centre roundabout.....scares the life out of me that roundabout! Is there a back way, dont care if I have to drive 20 mins out of my way!! Seriously! I am coming from Wafi direction, thanks so much appreciate any advice.
siennachick
94
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 July 2012 - 19:18
I dont expect a mansion or a huge villa etc, just nicely presented and CLEAN! I dont expect to see, filthy bathrooms, kitchens and gardens, one villa we saw the maids room had c##p all over the toilet.....I mean really?? Another thing I have come across is the maintenance the landlord apparently covers the big things but we are responsible for the small things? That to me has hairs all over it.....and the bond? Held by the landlord not by a rental board?? Anyway....we are here so have to except it I know, but I just want to look at one villa that is at least presentable and clean. Thanks for listening to me rant.....
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 July 2012 - 18:02
Thanks everyone so very much, appreciate the support and advice! Thanks Salsb that is some great advice, didnt know about that, I guess I take everything at face value, could be in for a few surprises, hopefully not expensive ones! Thanks again.
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 June 2012 - 11:08
Pull Man Hotel, had friends from Australia stay there just a few weeks ago and LOVED it!! It is in the MOE and has a fantastic roof top pool over looking the city, perfect location for red bus tour etc and is reasonable priced. My friends said they would stay there again and to recommend it to anyone else visiting Dubai. Hope your friends have fun!
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 April 2012 - 20:44
Thanks so very much SavvyB!
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 April 2012 - 12:09
So thats why I get so upset when I see people not wearing seatbelts!! Especially the children that stand between the two front seats, what do the parents think will happen if they are in an accident, if they cut in front of me usually at great speed and I hit them and there child goes thru the windscreen.....I could go to jail?? That is just crazy on so many levels....
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 31 March 2012 - 09:11
Thanks so much Captainjacky!
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 March 2012 - 09:35
Can someone please tell me what is the best exit to take off Sheik Zyad road to get to the Jumeria Islands please?? Coming from Old Town/Dubai Mall direction. Thanks so much!
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 February 2012 - 17:17
Hiccup, I know this is an aweful thing to say and I shouldn't be advising it but it did work for me. You need to start to appear NOT to care about your husband ( even though inside, your heart is breaking) Start to make plans with friends on the weekend and bring your DS along. Just tell your husband at the last minute, "Oh, sorry forgot to tell you, going out.... You'll be alright here, won't you??. Stop calling him and texting him every day (not saying that you do) so he has no idea what you are up to. Plan a vacation to visit your parents and take your DS. Basically, make sure he sees that you have a life and don't need him. This worked with mine and gradually he got the message and started to wriggle his way back into our lives. He is taking you for granted. Just Don;t live exclusively for him. :) Take care This was the best advice I was ever given years ago by a male friend. It can be really hard but it really works. This advice was also recommended to me by a thearapist and my brother a few years ago! Worked a treat, best thing I ever did, stopped me being sick with worry and instead of waiting home for him, he ended up waiting for me!! I wouldnt normally be one to do this, as it isnt my personality type and was so HARD but trust me it works and gives you confidience. I have to agree with the others, this is a little more than a white lie, go with your gut feeling it is always right. Hugs to you.
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 February 2012 - 18:23
Will do Arohadxb! Just to be sure! Dibdab I think it makes a difference flying into Muscat with children and no husband and because I am sponsored by my husband I have to carry a letter of no objection from him and pay 200dhs, but I think I have to get my visa here in Dubai as I have heard they can turn you away at the airport, depends on the day I think.
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 February 2012 - 16:36
What a relief!!!! Thanks so much! Was told by Emirates I wouldnt be allowed to get my visa in Muscat airport as my husband (sponsor) wasnt travelling with me and I would need to apply at the Consulate. Thanks, much appreciated!
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 February 2012 - 16:44
I have had an Ethiopian Maid going on 8 years in April and have many friends with one as well, they have all been trustworthy, loyal, wonderful women, please dont judge a race by someone else's "thoughts" there is good and bad in any race in any profession. I have personally never heard of a Ethiopian maid being anything but warm hearted, loving and hard working, I would be very interested to know how "exagarated" the story of the absconding maids is and where it is to read the article to hear there side of the story! As for a "mafia" that just makes me laugh out loud!! At the end of the day, if a maid absconds, there is probably a good reason behind it and cant say I blame them the way I have seen some people treat there maids. Also would be intrested to find out how many other nationalities abscond to compare apples to apples, not only in housemaids but other jobs too.
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 January 2012 - 14:30
Yes I have! Fantastic! Would recommend without a hesitation, Adam is great with kids/teenagers which is my experience with 2blimitless, havent use anyone else there but I have friends that know Mick Todd and apparently he is amazing with corporate etc. Where did you get your vouchers from?? Have a friend that I have recommended to see Adam for her 10 year old and she would probably appreciate them.
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 02 January 2012 - 14:07
Sorry to hear this Rancher! A similiar thing happened to my 13 year old son in Silicon Oasis Semmer villa's, he was out walking our dog and a silver car datson sunny type (gardner type car) an Indian man with a moustache stopped and followed my son for a while, he didnt get out of the car but continued to drive beside him, he apparently kept asking to buy our dog!! So my son got straight on the phone and called me, but by the time I got there the man had driven off. We informed our securtity plus Emirates (it is a Emirates compound) so now we have quite a few securtiy cameras, not sure if this will help but at least it is a start! This happened to my son around the 27th December, so many reports of this type of thing happening, I just hope nobody gets abducted!! Very scary!! Hope your daughter is ok and not to shaken up.
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 December 2011 - 16:43
Thank you all so very much for all your responses! I really appreciate all the advice and support, has made me feel better all ready. Hugs to you all!
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 December 2011 - 11:41
Thanks so much everyone! You bought me to tears..... ;) really appreciate your advice and kind words, maybe it is a age thing...I am turning 39 in a few months! xx
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 02 December 2011 - 21:33
What about booking a night away in a hotel? Maybe a short drive away or book your Mum in for a day of pampering somewhere and book your Dad the same maybe the spa at wafi and have a nice lunch after? Or buy them a day pass at a beach club with a buffet for lunch or dinner? Mussadam dhow cruise tour? Day at the races coming up, maybe buy them vip tickets? Or just a nice dinner in there fav restaurant but picked up in a limo? um.... all I can think of! Or what about booking them into that restaurant that you get strapped into and it is on top of a crane or something I remember reading about it a while ago in the time out magazine, it is on like a platform above the city, sorry dont know the name or anything else....Good luck.
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 November 2011 - 14:55
Babe! Hate it hate it hate it!!! If one more person calls me babe..... ;)
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 October 2011 - 19:16
Can you imagine the outrage in the Western world from the "guests" of the Country if Australia, Uk etc did the "subsidise" for dewa bills it would be called RACISM and taken to court etc....but for some reason it is ok here!!! Disgraceful, no other word but racist, sick of how people get treated in this place and they think this city isn't 3rd world.....because of the "5 star" facade.
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 August 2011 - 11:40
I did something similiar back in April and Emirates checked my bags all the way thru for me, however it was Syd - BKK- DXB, there is no time to go to the lounge as you have to get off the plane and walk 20 mins around the terminal to get back to the same gate lounge....in time to reboard the aircraft. I dont see your luggage being a problem, if for some reason at check in it is, just ask to see the supervisor on duty and explain the situation and I am sure it will be sorted for you.
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 July 2011 - 08:54
My thoughts exactly Basil! We spend a fortune on it, but ended up using medicare when we needed anything done as not only did you pay your monthly amount, when you go to hospital you still end up with a bill! However that was 5 years ago now, so maybe it has changed. I agree it is a good thing to avoid waiting list, but in our experience we had to pay alot anyway, for not much in return. Dont shoot me down, just a personal experience and my OWN opion.
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 July 2011 - 08:49
Health insurance, well thats another issue! In OZ you can go to hospitals for free and get various things done, all depends on the urgency . Brother in law just had triple heart bypass at a well known hospital in Brisbane for heart ops for free as no insurance but needed it urgent. Nephew had shoulder re construction also for free, so sometimes u just dont need the insurance. In saying all this we had top cover all our lives there and hardly used it except for when I was pregnant. We could only keep it on hold for 2 yrs so thats gone now. Mind u because of DH salary govt made us have it!
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 July 2011 - 14:43
Australia is definitely a lifestyle choice, certainly dont go if you want to get ahead finacially...not only is it a very expensive place to live, you pay 40% tax as well, when we left if you earnt over a certain amount you had to have private health insurance, which in my opinion isnt worth the paper it is written on. Very proud to be Australian but wont be hurrying back anytime soon, to be honest with a young family we cant afford to give the opportunities we can offer them here, this is a personal choice however and many people I am sure would disagree. One thing I do find ironic is generally we can buy Australian products here cheaper than in Australia, anyway good luck with your decision, Australia is a wonderful country, however like any other country in the world has it's issues, just depends on what is important to you.
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 July 2011 - 09:31
Thanks for the directions, appreciate them very much, as for the map, well yes however even though I bought a "new one" it was printed in 2003 and it didnt have much detail, you see I havent had a reason to go to the Meadows before and I was a little confused between the Springs, Meadows and the Greens....and didnt want to be driving around at night confused with children in the car. Sorry if I dont know all area's of Dubai, but I promise to study my map for future reference, but I really do appreciate your directions.
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 June 2011 - 18:27
Both my DH and me work for EK so it's not cos I am jealous. Just think it's kind of private. EK gives us a lifestyle package and we do pay for our privilege cards. I guess I just don't think it's appropriate to announce to all and sundry what we get. Fair enough! I agree with you and I am sure Emirates would too.
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 June 2011 - 16:46
maybe Tonix or her husband are EK staff and don't want everyone knowing what they get? had that happen in Asia....the local paper posted salaries of top ten employers. My husband was in that top 10. So, you get in a taxi and the driver starts with the questions...where you from, you live here etc. then came oh you live here, where do you work. If the top 10 employers were mentioned we were tagged with WOW, you guys make LOTS of money....tip tip tip!! Drove me crazy, however I don't think all drivers were after the bigger tip. As for EK discounts, most people here ( in dubai that is) know about EPC and FACE cards. And EPC cards are not just for EK pilots...Etihad, VIP Operators and ATC guys get it too. What I dislike is...... where are you from, what are you doing here, what kind of package are you on, do you ahve a good housing allowance, school included in that and what about DEWA. Ya...tired of those questions and again, having lived overseas for 10 years it seems as though Dubai is the worst for the nosey questions! Maybe Tonix wishes she worked for EK.... Swings n roundabouts Tonix, every job has it's advantages and disadvantages.
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 25 June 2011 - 18:01
Thats because there isnt one....you have to email the whichever hotel directly and ask if they give a "industry rate" some do, some dont and sorry but New York in summer dont like your chances! But pays to ask, I guess, also I dont think we are suppose to "advertise" on forums that we get such discounts. Good luck and enjoy New York.
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 June 2011 - 10:28
Thanks everyone! Was hoping that was the case, can plan a night out with the girls before summer!
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 June 2011 - 09:34
Hey Ash, welcome to DSO..... ;) no you dont have to put in an extra water tank, as usual the gardeners are just trying to rip you off and the one water tank is more than enough! We have a family of 5 and a large garden and have never had a problem! Our experience with DSO Headquarters or Muppet Head Quarters as we "affectionectly" call them are on the take from the gardeners, as we were told by our gardener that he had to pay money to be allowed in to the villa compounds to look for work, DSO call it a "gate pass" Sorry cant help with a gardener who wont cost the earth, we used Al Tarouth but to be honest I think they are all the same, see an expat in a villa compound and charge you triple. Good Luck.
siennachick
94
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 June 2011 - 13:54
I hear you....our grocery bill was getting embaressing!! Was allowing 6000 dhs per month to feed 5, including cleaning products and 3 animals!! So I decided to do something about it to and went back to basics, dusted off the cook books and got out my Mum's old receipes and started to cook from scratch....for kids lunches I did a mass cook up on Saturday, like slices, cakes etc and froze them individual portions and did the same with pasta sauces etc, I was finding I was throwing out alot of uneaten cakes etc so just froze everything and took out what I needed. I was finding I was shopping everyday for bread and milk and therefore buying extra things everytime I went so I would either send our teenager or house helper to the local shop just down the road so I wouldnt be tempted to buy everything in sight.....that I didnt really need. It is a pain on Saturdays some times as you have other stuff on, however it free's up my weekdays. I also noticed that alot of my Mum's receipes were big enough for 2 meals, so I would freeze the other portion for next time ( like casaroles and curry etc) anyway enough about my shopping/cooking habits....good luck.
 
 
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