singingcanary | ExpatWoman.com
 

singingcanary

singingcanary
304
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 September 2012 - 15:15
Thanks!!!
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 September 2012 - 15:13
We are sub-leasing from MFRE too. At this stage I think we are ok, except for the fact that promised maintenance hasn't occurred and the lease has not been registered despite paying for that to be done. Oh, and several years of community fees have not been paid - but that is the owner, not MFRE. I guess we will need to determine what our strategy should be when the 2nd rent cheque is due to be cashed (Jan). Perhaps we should get the cheque cancelled and try and go to the owner of the villa direct? In the meantime, presumably any large scale maintenance will not be completed and technically, if their offices are closed as the article linked suggests, we have no landlord??? Has anyone actually been into the MFRE offices recently? Is it true that they are locked and no staff present? This is my EXACT situation except for that I paid in one check upfront, so no way to get any money back. I think my landlord has been given 4 checks and should be cashing the third one this month. Holding my breath that he was not scammed and got the one check upfront but I have no idea yet. But I have the same problems with no building security paid and nothing I can do about it because MFRE are MIA and I don't want to risk contacting the LL and having him start trying to evict me incase he WAS scammed. Oh and I paid for registration RERA to MFRE which also did not happen. With ALL of the laws / scams / burnt fingers in the real estate sector right now I am so scared/reluctant to move and find a new place after this.... considering living in a tent in the desert..... =(
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 September 2012 - 13:38
Hi ladies, I have a dress I bought from Vera moda that is one size too big, the in-house tailor took it in a bit for me but I wasn't happy with how he wanted to cut the sleeves to take them in so I told him to not do anything more. It's still too big in the sleeves and I need someone good with difficult material (chiffon) to finish it. Any recs? I might ask my wedding dress tailor but I know she'll charge through the roof...
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 September 2012 - 10:41
Thanks all!! =) Where do you think the best place to buy the phone (4s) itself is? C4? Or are there better places?
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 September 2012 - 10:39
Ah, thanks Di. Most of the articles I'd found were about the other company Shamyana Entertainment. This one clears things up. My rent is under market value so I'm very concerned but will just sit tight until something comes to light....
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 September 2012 - 10:34
Hmmmm. So is it possible to buy the Iphone 4s here new in stores still? And it would NOT have iOS6 already? And how does 4s work with sim card - can I just take my etisalat prepaid sim out of my Nokia and pop it in? Or do I need to buy a new one to link it to the monthly pay-as-you-go / data plan? Sorry for all the daft questions, never had a smart phone before! TIA!
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 September 2012 - 10:21
Thanks Expatriate! Okay so for a real technology dummy does that mean I can still buy a new iphone which does not have iOs6 and just refuse to upgrade? Or are all new ones with iOs6? Confused..
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 September 2012 - 10:14
Thanks! Does your phone have a working googlemaps / GPS capability (with the talking voice and everything)? I have heard somewhere that apple is now stopping googlemaps from working on the phones? Can someone clarify? TIA
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 September 2012 - 10:12
All of their UAE websites go directly to this weird page which has nothing to do with the showroom.
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 September 2012 - 13:31
Dolphins are so amazing and your experiences sound wonderful. I think my DD is too young to do some of these activities although we have seen wild dolphins in Kenya and St Lucia. We're off to Musandam soon and I'd love to see them there. Any ideas of how to find out about where the dolphins at Atlantis and the Dolphinarium come from? We have been to Atlantis and they did have one baby who had been born there but I don't know about the source of the adults. I should have asked more questions now that I know what you've told us. I do think this is a difficult subject and, like zoos, can we morally defend keeping such animals? I think so, but only if they are kept very well, with due respect and care and are not from the wild, where possible. Whilst I agree that the idea of animals being kept merely for entertainment is a repugnant one, zoos and dolphinariums etc do so much to encourage a love of animals, particularly in children. Those children then, hopefully and with the right encouragement, grow up wanting to do the right thing regarding animals and nature in general. I think some zoos and possibly even some dolphinariums also contribute to our knowledge of animals and have a conservation aspect. I have never been and would never go to a circus that had animals. Does that mean I shouldn't go to a zoo or dolphinarium? For me, the jury is out on that one. I'm really not sure now...but I do know that I can't wait to see dolphins in the wild again and would far rather see them in their natural habitat than in a man made one. edited by emmsie on 12/09/2012 This is exactly it. Not all establishments who use animals for entertainment are money making shams. Some of them use funds for conservation, public awareness and education, and it is always good to encourage children to develop a healthy love and respect for animals. That being said, I probably will never go to the Dolphinarium or the Atlantis despite the fact that I love seeing the animals up close because I don't trust that the region we are in does not exploit them in some way. Also - noted that just because you can do touristy activities where you spot animals in the wild also does not mean all such activities are good for those animals either. It is popular to bait wild sharks for instance for cage divers, and that is really bad for them. I've been on the dhow cruise and it appears to be fine (they attract the dolphins with noises which the dolphins come to investigate and then the dolphins seem to enjoy chasing the boats on their own merit) but you never know about the impacts of such activities. Is the constant boat traffic disrupting to normal daily patterns? Is the noise and oil pollution having an impact? While some of us get on our "high horse" about perceived "evils" to the animal world, in reality there is so much more we do that has negative effects. The best you can possibly do is research to make the most informed decision possible, and spread the awareness/information,but I feel it is not our place to judge or belittle people for the choices they end up making.
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 September 2012 - 18:17
So what do people do who own pets and live in apartments? Do they have to drop them at animal shelters? That will go down great...
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 September 2012 - 18:16
Thanks, I'm interested, but how long will it take? I only have 5 weeks =)
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 September 2012 - 15:25
Hi ladies! The big day is approaching! I have some questions that hopefully some of you may be able to answer... - Where is the best place to look for hairpieces? - What dermatologist would you recommend as being affordable, and who can give me some skin care advice and who also does facials? - Or, affordable facials for people with rosacea prone skin? - I want to go somewhere and get a makeover done and then buy the products for the wedding day if I like them. (It's destination wedding so I don't trust to use the products of the stylist whom I've never met until the day itself). What store would you rec for this? Thanks so much in advance!
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 September 2012 - 21:35
My OH and I also see Dr. O'Malley, he's wonderful. They don't do direct billing unfortunately but hopefully as we just had a check and cleaning it will be straight forward reimbursement with our insurance co - will post back if there is any problems.
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 28 August 2012 - 19:18
Ladies, thanks so much for your offers. I finally caved and bought "THE dress" lol! I might be eating noodles for a month but after looking at it again it is soooo worth it. But definitely a secondhand wedding dress business might be an opportunity for someone to pick up... I only found one place with limited selection, and I assume not all women take the time to consistently upload theirs on dubizzle after it expires. Would be great to go one place, and have someone help you, just like a regular bridal shop... but without the insane prices! <em>edited by singingcanary on 28/08/2012</em>
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 28 August 2012 - 13:22
Dear PP, is the size and style similar to what I described? Would you have time to send a photo? This is my dilemma... I've reserved "the one" at a bridal shop and they've informed me someone else is going to look at it tonight. So I have to act fast if I decide to take the plunge and buy new. I can technically afford it but the thought of spending so much on a dress I can never use after the big day seems wasteful to me... I have no problem wearing a secondhand as long as it suits me. Unfortunately haven't found a secondhand which screams my name the same as the expensive new one! I keep going back and forth right now, don't know what to do...
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 28 August 2012 - 12:35
Thanks abby_n, no problem. The search goes on!
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 28 August 2012 - 11:12
Hi abby_n_christina, no worries. Do you have any previous clients who had a dress similar to what I'm looking for who might be convinced to rent or sell it? =)
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 27 August 2012 - 22:23
I have one too ... its gorgeous Could you give details or contact info? Thanks!
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 27 August 2012 - 22:05
Thanks ladies. Zoco I've emailed you and Irooni I've added the link to the "potential" list! =) <em>edited by singingcanary on 27/08/2012</em>
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 27 August 2012 - 20:18
I'd love to buy or rent it! If you can part with your dress forever or even just a day, and it sounds like this: Size EUR 38, USA 4 or spanish style 8 (they run tiny!) or one size up Corset, empire or sash style making it tight around the natural waistline Strapless / sweetheart neckline Somewhere between A-line and ballgown silhouette (poofing out but not TOO much) PLEASE LET ME KNOW ASAP!!! =)
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 August 2012 - 18:08
My OH is Lebanese and we traveled there in January, June and early August again with absolutely no problems. His family and friends live there and nothing has happened. If you stay away from the border areas and other dodgy areas it should be fine? And avoid any protests, etc if they happen to occur... It's a beautiful place, and I never felt unsafe while there.
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 07 August 2012 - 13:42
Okay, more specific question: Anyone gotten Dubai London Clinic dentist cleaning reimbursed by ADNIC? They don't do direct billing but I'm leaning towards going there over Welcare.
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 07 August 2012 - 13:40
I'm on the GNPLUS network through my employment and I'm not a fan. I have quite a bad case of plantar verracua, been there for years, getting worse, quite painful to walk, etc. And they will not cover consultation nor treatment for it as they claim it is "cosmetic"! As if something on the bottom of my foot is cosmetic... the only thing I've ever gotten covered was an emergency visit for an allergy attack, 50 copay only. I'm now trying to find a dentist that is covered directly because I am very wary about just choosing any dentist and attempting to get it reimbursed...
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 July 2012 - 23:29
Thanks nams! I think I will anonymously call the dept. to see what they say. Actually I might call multiple times to see what 2 or 3 different people say, because that's the only way to find out something for sure lol I'll update on here what I find out
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 July 2012 - 19:27
Thanks, but doesn't say what to look for on the new silver license? However, I am thinking it probably is only automatic, as another person who transferred their American received an automatic only UAE license. Oy...
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 July 2012 - 18:20
Haha you're much more like OH, he says I am way overthinking this. But I am the kind of person with bad luck for things like this, whenever I try to just "let it be" and not scrutinize all the rules and make sure I am totally by the book, I get caught out!
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 July 2012 - 18:10
I want to, but I'm nervous about insurance policy and getting fined if something happens?
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 July 2012 - 18:07
I can't either, but I need to learn for work. So... this is my dilemma, if my license technically allows me to drive manual, then I just need to take like, say, 8 lessons or something for my own learning, nothing with paperwork about it. However, in the event that it does not cover manual, what rule applies? The whole shebang all over like I don't have any license at all, 40 required lessons testing etc. for total beginners? Or would I need 20 or 30 lessons instead instead of 40 like they require if you have a non-transferable country license? But still needing to do the official testing, etc..... sighhhhhhhhhhhhh
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 July 2012 - 17:58
Sorry I meant I transferred my American to obtain a UAE license as opposed to taking driving lessons/tests here in the UAE, which are more straightforward with manual vs. automatic as you choose which during the lessons and test. But for transfers are they automatically assuming to give you an automatic license only? Because in the states, one license covers both, which is what I had - get why I'm confused? Lol
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 July 2012 - 17:46
So, I have a new silver license where it states "Light vehicle". No dots or * even though I wear glasses. So... ? (BTW thanks I couldn't find the older thread about this similar topic?)
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 July 2012 - 17:38
Thanks - but where is the dot? Why can't they just specify "Manual" or "Automatic" on the license and make it clear =(
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 July 2012 - 16:42
Exactly - but nowhere on the license does it say "Automatic" or "Manual". And I know in the UAE the licenses are not for both - Manual covers both, Automatic only Automatic. So which one do I have!?
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 July 2012 - 16:28
Thanks!
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 July 2012 - 16:24
You CAN eat roosters. But I wouldn't lol... So, confused. They are both pets or they are both wild? The neighbors keep the rooster indoors and feed the duck, but claim they are not theirs?
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 July 2012 - 16:18
What do they do?
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 July 2012 - 13:04
If its a wild duck and they stop feeding it, it will leave.
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 July 2012 - 08:45
I hated Dubai when I first came last summer, but when the weather cooled and it became beautiful, when I met some good friends, and when I started to acclimate to the area (getting used to the driving, finding my favorite restaurants, etc) I began to love it. I even thought I might stay 'forever' (as long as possible anyways). However it seems to me that they are implementing lots of change, and not in the more "liberal" direction... more rules, more strictness. I understand this is not my country, blah blah blah, but regardless, the atmosphere around here is changing in my opinion, and I no longer want to stick around very long... There were always lots of pros and cons balancing themselves out, but for me, recent changes are pushing the "cons" side a lot more than the "pros" side.
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 June 2012 - 15:50
Thanks! I've actually contacted the guy in that link, will see what he has to say (website was old, so maybe he doesn't do it anymore? not sure). For husband visa sponsoring the wife, how does this work when you are not married in your home country? Do I still need to send the documents to the USA to be attested or can they be done in Greece or here in the UAE?
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 June 2012 - 16:13
When I was looking for a job, the best thing I ever did was not search recruitment agencies, or job sites, I spent a whole Saturday (well not a whole Saturday, but several hours) searching for ALL companies in my field. I opened a word document, then went to each of their websites and listed on the word document: COMPANY NAME WEBSITE EMAIL CONTACT NUMBER I then wrote an email and cover letter. I then spent several hours sending my cover letters and CV to each of the companies on the list. Each time I would change the name on the cover letter so it was personalised. if you email 30 companies in your industry in one day, at least 2-3 will contact you if you've got a good cv and cover letter. If none do, search for more in your industry or look for another industry where your skills may be useful. If you exhaust every single company and no one calls you it's time to go home or go to another country as if you've contacted EVERYONE and no one is in need then you'lll know you're wasting your time - and the chances of that happening are pretty slim. Good luck! This is what I've done too. Unfortunately there are only about 20 professional entities in my profession in all of the UAE. I did not get any offers, but two or three replied back with a "we can use you in the future, we'll remember you" and I did get a summer internship at one of those places. Unpaid, but I'm gaining more experience and networking with the people there. This probably isn't an option for you however... wishing you good luck as well, I know how frustrating it can be.
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 11 June 2012 - 12:56
Ishehere - roomates are illegal? I was under the impression that same-*** roomates were legal (with a limit to a certain number per apartment of course)
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 11 June 2012 - 12:47
What do you do if you have AD work visa but live in Dubai? What do you do if you share with a roomate whose name is on the tenancy contract? What do you do if you live in Dubai, have an AD work visa, but the tenancy contract is your husbands? do they really mean to say everyone on a visa must have their own accommodation?!?
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 11 June 2012 - 12:45
http://www.emirates247.com/news/emirates/new-rules-for-expat-visa-renewal-visit-sponsorship-across-uae-2012-06-06-1.461858 Does anyone know more about this?
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 11 June 2012 - 12:44
I found this on google: http://www.meetup.com/English-Arabic-Conversation-Dubai/ No idea when/where they meet though...
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 11 June 2012 - 12:29
Just wanted to concur, Fellowship of the Emirates is great, by far my favorite sermons and always a nice way to start the weekend =)
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 June 2012 - 15:20
Jordan also makes a wonderful 5 or so day trip - just enough time to go from the airport, drive down and visit Dana, Petra, Wadi Ramm, Aqaba, and then the Dead Sea on the way back. Air Arabia has cheap flights. We went last July and while it was still very warm, it was far less humid than here. Plus, it is the tourist off season, so very quiet comparatively, we were told.
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 June 2012 - 15:16
I am also at a low-intermediate level but cannot continue with my current teacher as I cannot make daytime class anymore. I have a contact for a private arabic teacher if you are interested.
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 June 2012 - 22:10
As an ecologist and conservationist I would like to add... the thing that concerns me most is the effect on vulnerable or endangered species, and this is much more of a problem in the fur industry than the meat industry. How many snow leopard burgers do we eat? In terms of animal welfare, I agree that animals are treated inhumanely in many ways, whether it be from cruelty towards pets, poaching and killing for fur or other parts, slaughtered for meat, laboratory testing, etc etc etc I could go on. What you choose to do to minimize your contribution to particular areas that most upset you is a personal choice. On a last note, humans are definitely not ecologically vegetarian. We are naturally omnivorous and historically needed meat proteins to survive, although the quantity and source definitely have changed in modern times.
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 30 May 2012 - 20:03
Bump for the evening people! =)
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 30 May 2012 - 12:56
Bump for another question - does anyone know if there are "teaching assistant" positions offered at any of the Universities? Sort of like a graduate assistant type position, without being a graduate student.
 
 
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