singingcanary | ExpatWoman.com
 

singingcanary

singingcanary
304
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 13:55
Thanks! They are on my list.
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 13:50
The thing to remember about online forums, or any type of conversation that is held via text only (email, online chatroom, text message, ect) is that often people misinterpret the tone of someone's sentence because we are relying on words only and not facial expression, vocal inflections, etc. I think sometimes bluntly asked questions are not meant to be rude, especially taking into account the number of users who are not native in English. I also agree with a previous poster, I think it's worse when the OP does come back, but then begins to argue with or dismiss all the replies. Comparatively, I think not having the time to jot down "Thank you!" is not that big of an issue. As for new posters not contributing? First off, obviously they can't contribute when it comes to finding items or services or the like as they just got here. Secondly, I think it's far more annoying when posters come on and comment when the comment has no helpful information whatsoever. Especially when it's only serving to "fan the fire" in a debate, or putting their own opinion out there in a contemptuous way that is not relevant to the original query. If I have nothing helpful to add to a discussion, I don't say anything. When I do, I say something. Plus, I usually avoid the catfight threads because I don't like getting my posts ripped apart by people. This is the one exception I'm making by posting on this thread... because I feel you're making other posters feel uncomfortable. Basically I think it is too quick to judge those who ask simple questions and don't post on other topics that much. This is the internet. We use this site to make connections, to get advice, and help, as living as expats. This isn't a place to raise your children. If you don't like someone's posting etiquette? Don't help them. Although personally I think that's even more rude.
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 00:32
GA, great post. Agree completely.
singingcanary
304
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 00:29
Make him at least apply!!! Tell him there's no hard in applying still, especially schools like MIT and that caliber. Convince him that you back his decisions and plans but, to at least apply as originally intended, as a backup plan, or an option to think about if he DOES get accepted. Tell him this way he can make a choice after acceptance and never say "what if I had applied? Would I have gotten in?" Later, when he gets an acceptance for a prestigious school, he'll have a hard time turning it down, even for a girlfriend I would think. I nearly chose my undergrad school to follow a boyfriend - glad I didn't. We broke up 3 months into uni. This is the case in nearly all high school relationships, even the ones that go to the same school. My best friend followed her fiance around for 5 years giving up better schools and jobs the whole time and they just broke up two months ago because of the resentment she felt. Really, really really don't let him follow the girl!
singingcanary
304
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 January 2012 - 13:07
[i'>Where[/i'> is the degree from? Is it a well known institution that ranks highly for that particular field? That could have some impact - both in the abilities of the graduate as well as the likelihood that he/she could find other opportunities and move on quickly.
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 January 2012 - 12:59
Hi Jules, Good for you for going rescue! Like you say, a young puppy requires a LOT of training and time. Honestly for your situation I would recommend getting an older dog (2+ years) because they tend to be calmer and less prone to puppy mischief. If you go to a reputable rescue center and explain your situation, they should be able to find a dog that has been previously assessed with cats and young children with positive results. Just because a dog has not grown up with cats does not mean it won't get along with them. Also you can do a trial period, like fostering, to see if the cat and dog will get along? Good luck!
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 December 2011 - 23:01
Hi ladies, I am looking to make environmental/ecologist contacts from Oman. Government, private, university, non-profit, it doesn't matter, I just need to begin networking there in order to expand a project I am working on involving an endangered Arabian species. If you know someone who may know someone - please post your email here and I'll message you directly. Please pick your brains ladies - if anyone can help, I would be extremely grateful!
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 December 2011 - 15:42
Does anyone who wants to do this live near JBR?
singingcanary
304
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 December 2011 - 09:29
While I agree with you Tallybalt that many Western expats can live a very similar personal lifestyle in Dubai as to home, what is unique about the position is the work itself. Environmental work in the Middle East would definitely stand out on a resume in the field. I also agree about the car bit... it is not my offer/hire to make though. I am simply seeing what peoples opinions are regarding the package. As ChiliPepper said, that is really what it is about. Young adults probably fresh grads looking for a start up job to boost the career and maybe as an in between experience before going back to grad school. While finding the perfect candidate in the UAE already would obviously be the simplest solution, realistically it will be harder to find someone to fit the position who currently lives here than someone from the USA or Canada or Australia, etc.
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 December 2011 - 00:01
Well its not meant to be a dead-end continuing job. It's a project on a grant for 1, 2 years max. So it would be more like a yearly contract. Would you still think its not reasonable as a travel-abroad-gain-experience stint that pays just enough to get by? Thanks for your varying input and opinions ladies, lots of info to think about.
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 December 2011 - 22:56
As a western educated (@ degree level) single westerner my first salary here was about 6k. I shared an apartment with friends, got the bus and did simple things like have shwarmas on the beach and had/still have like minded friends who do the same. :) but wasn't that in 1066? :) B.C. ??? ;)
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 December 2011 - 22:22
Yes Lady of Bubbles that I think is one of the selling points, the experience. It is not a position for those looking for financial gain, but rather for a starting point in this particular career. Anna-panna: It is not an office job with no future prospects. While the job itself is a short contract it is valuable experience in the field itself. The people currently working in this position are supported by spouses and so can work for the relatively low pay. My concern was whether a single overseas candidate could expect to come here, set up, and live off of the offer. It would be good to add someone to the team but I want to be honest about if it is realistic to expect someone to make ends meet with it. Also it requires a BA minimum as well as some research or field experience, and while nobody would be turned down due to nationality, the problem is that not everyone wants a job involving physical outdoor work.
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 December 2011 - 17:33
No I quite understand your point dibdab. It's a tricky situation. I wouldn't want to convince someone to come over unless I rightfully believed they could make it work long term (at the very least one full year) and that it was a positive step for them. What I've found is that by creating my own social events I am able to negate spending 1000+ dirhams a weekend socializing. Instead of clubs we do cocktails at home, rental movie nights in rather than at theaters, potlucks instead of brunches, group board games and other creative ideas (themed parties where all chip in- for halloween, thanksgiving, christmas etc) and this way the socializing costs are cut considerably. That being said though it is difficult to do this without the group of friends first. (And even more difficult in a studio I guess!)
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 December 2011 - 17:08
Basic health insurance is included. I forgot to say that. Isn't is mandatory in the UAE? The reason a car is necessary is that the work is in and out around the UAE, not based solely in Dubai where public transport is enough. The estimated cost of 1,000/month is assuming the total cost around 2,000 is split with another person (which is an option for the person in question). The reason there is not more offered by the company is because this is a position that is part of an environmental project funded by a grant, so the budget is limited. It is looking like it would not be possible without at least a slight increase in salary to make living comfortable and not barely scraping by. Also, 700 a month on food seems amazing to me! I try to live frugally when it comes to food expenses and I estimate its around 10 AED per meal at home, which is where I got 1000/month (30 a day, 900 a month plus an extra 100). And do you never ever eat out?
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 December 2011 - 16:48
Looking for Western educated so (most likely) would also be of Western nationality (but it is not necessary). That is why it is a hard sell. While the taxfree salary is good, many young adults - in the US at least - are taking advantage of living at home so the rent, transport costs almost negate the positive difference.
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 December 2011 - 16:44
3,000 one flight over ? startup costs (furniture/house stuff, drivers license/other paperwork fees not covered by company) 2,500 rent /month ? utilities/month 1,000 rental car + gas + salik /month (if costs split with 1 other person) 1,000 food/month (minimum - no eating out) What other necessities am I probably missing...? Again this is not for me. Looking to convince overseas people to come over for this package, trying to see the reality in it - is it enough for someone to move here. Thanks for your help!
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 December 2011 - 16:11
So - if you share apartments, whats the minimum you think rent could be brought down to? Also, how does one go about finding roomates etc. ??
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 December 2011 - 15:03
Thank you, will try the one in MOE!
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 December 2011 - 14:07
No one has seen anything like?
singingcanary
304
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 December 2011 - 14:05
I've seen it at both Al Maya and Carrefour
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 November 2011 - 18:26
I'm doing it in Al Ain so every time I must return to do something that HR forgot to tell me about or didn't know, it is very annoying. HOPEFULLY, tomorrow I will just rock up and finish the fingerprinting and then turn it all in to HR for immigration... and that should be all... there can't possibly be another problem. RIGHT? =P
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 November 2011 - 18:13
Busybee, How long ago was it just the typing center receipt needed? I'm thinking maybe it was also a case of the particular person my visa application went to was a stickler for the new rules while others were just content with the typing center application. Can you believe its taken my HR department 6 months to get this stuff sorted?
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 November 2011 - 18:08
Add turkish labneh =)
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 November 2011 - 18:05
So the story of my continuing problems with acquiring a residency visa is far too long to tell here... but trust me it has been so, so so frustrating. If you can help at all, please answer any of the following questions regarding the NEW RESIDENCY VISA PROCESS FOR ABU DHABI, STARTING OCT 16::: - As I understand it, this is now the process: 1) Get entry visa 2) Typing center translate passport/fill out Emirates ID application 3) Health center medical checkup 4) Emirates Identity Authority fingerprinting- just walk in, no appointments given anymore... then at this point, all should be good to send your papers to immigration to get your residency visa? My HR is saying that I need the physical Emirates ID card which is RIDICULOUS because it's going to take 3+ weeks to get it, and my entry visa is expiring in 2.5 weeks!!! I don't even want to open that can of worms if my entry visa expires before I get my residency visa!!????? Please help if you know anything about this at all... yeh the rule came in oct 16 its easy really, all you need to do is go to typing centre with passport and visa and money fill in the online form, and get a receipt once you have that you can start the visa renewal etc. when you fill out the form you will be given an appointment to go to eida offices and do the fingerprint/photos etc. that may be a month or 6 months later. in order to fulfill any of the processes in abu dhabi such as visa renewal and now as of a few days any traffic services you need to go and do the typing etc. keep the receipt as then you can show to immigration and to traffic if you need to renew your car etc. once your application is in the system they are linked to immigration so your pro etc can then do the visa process. Actually busybee this in incorrect. I did this exactly, went to the typing center and got the receipt, and immigration sent back my residency application stating that I must first finish the registration process for the ID card. They want people to complete the fingerprinting as well. Instead of getting appointments they tell you to go directly to the Emirates Identity place and do fingerprinting after you do typing center and medical.Thanks for your input though, I think it is correct that I should not have to wait for the physical card. Once I find out 100% tomorrow I will repost to let people know the new process for visas.
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 November 2011 - 17:33
It is a brand new rule (oct 16) as they are trying to link visa and ID card process together - so that people are forced to get the card sooner. Also, the procedures for Dubai and Abu Dhabi are different. I have read 4 articles that say something vague like "once you have completed the ID registration process, you can continue your visa process like normal". Just trying to find out if this means having the physical Emirates ID card -or just completing the typing center translation/fingerprinting at EIDA stuff. siiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiigh
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 November 2011 - 14:29
louisedvs, how much food was there? I will be making cornbread muffins and a yam dish and there will only be 7 or 8 of us so do you think I still need to make more roast potatoes and veg? How about the pumpkin cake is it big enough for 8?
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 November 2011 - 20:58
As in the bottled spice section? Duhhhhhhhh I should have thought to try there
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 November 2011 - 20:54
Hi Ladies, Where does one find cloves around here? The little brown kind used often in Indian dishes? I've heard they are good at fending off house flies. Alternatively, if you have a suggestion for house fly repellent, that would also work. TIA!
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 November 2011 - 19:09
Maaam- wow you must be a kindred spirit! I had my heart set on a Musandam trip and I also already know that I want a daytrip to the Al Ain Zoo. The problem with Musandam is that I can't leave the UAE, so that got canceled =( So now, the only thing I have planned is the Al Ain Zoo trip. Definitely will look into your other suggestions! Liwa looks beautiful and Hatta looks nice as well, will give the other suggestions a think =) Thanks ladies!
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 November 2011 - 13:26
Checking availability now =) Any other ideas ladies? Daytrip recs?
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 November 2011 - 11:59
Thanks all for sorting this for me - I will begin the ID process. I had researched and researched and researched all the steps and documents and places I would need to go and all the things I would need to do and made a comprehensive list way back in June when I began the paperwork - of course though being Dubai they would change things in the course of those 5 months! Sorry busybee but I read the top stories when I do have time to read the news - emirates card updates are rarely featured on the google news front page.
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 November 2011 - 11:25
HR is saying this is a "really really really new rule". Anybody out there still in the process of getting a residency visa come across this?
singingcanary
304
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 October 2011 - 17:42
Lol @ shamat! I work as an ecological field researcher. =)
singingcanary
304
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 October 2011 - 17:30
Hi PJ, if Fluffy is still going strong in December, I would be fine to take him. Have had many dwarf hamsters, love the critters.
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 27 October 2011 - 14:59
Thanks =) It has its pros and cons, but I suppose not too many people can say they get a wicked tan while they work!
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 27 October 2011 - 14:51
If you think that's bad, I work on an uninhabited island where the only access to the mainland is via local fisherman boat. The boatman who takes me over and back daily often changes times sporadically and is late for pick ups (to be fair, he has a day job which is not schedule consistent, so it's not exactly his fault). Often he will be anywhere from 20 minutes to 90 minutes late. Its not too bad in the morning when I can wait inside for him, but imagine sitting on the beach just wanting to go home and being entirely dependent on his schedule!
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 October 2011 - 20:10
Yes, I meant the license. Thanks! That helps. Well, it's bad news. But it helps haha
singingcanary
304
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 October 2011 - 20:09
Thanks babyrat, I will remember that Hertz does this.
singingcanary
304
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 October 2011 - 20:08
I know that technically you are supposed to have the Emirates license once you receive residency, but I was asking this question as I am sure other people have been in this in-between situation? (You can't automatically get your Emirates license the minute you get your residency visa, so what do people do to drive in the meantime??) I'm hoping there is a solution? Do other ladies know? And, isn't there some companies that will rent a car out providing you also buy special insurance for Oman? My friend just did this with a long-term rental, is it not possible with short-term rentals??
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 October 2011 - 20:04
Just as a thought, many people mistakenly think only "small" dogs thrive in apartments. What matters more is the dogs temperament (which can be influenced by breed, though not always). For instance many Beagles and Jack Russel Terriers are small dogs, but are bad "apartment dogs" since they need plenty of exercise and time outdoors to be happy, while larger dogs like Collies are calmer and can actually can be quite content with more modest exercise. Many of K9's dogs are medium sized - still quite manageable, and with regular walks outdoors and good kennel training, can be a great addition to any apartment (if they have a calm temperament). I am sure the volunteers at K9 would be able to tell you which dogs would be good fits personality wise for an apartment. Apologies if you already know this and just prefer small dogs; but just so other people know =) I thought I'd share. Good luck with your adoption!
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 October 2011 - 13:19
THE COVE is heartbreaking =(. However, it doesn't mean that all establishments involving dolphins are evil, wild-baby-dolphin stealing, money extortion establishments. Reputable centers that tend to do rescues and self-breeding only are fine to support - generally these establishments are the ones advocating public awareness about the environmental crisis and how people can help (don't litter, reuse/recycle, etc.). The use of well-loved animals like dolphins is then meant to reach out to portray that message. However, it being Dubai, I am not so sure which category the Atlantis/Dolphinarium fall into...
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 October 2011 - 13:12
There are loads of reasons why they could be washed up. If it looks "fishy" (pardon the pun) you can always report it to the Emirates Marine Environment Group (google for contact info).
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 09 October 2011 - 21:47
WHAT!? NO WAY CLEO! YAAAAAAAY! Please please please if you get a chance let me know the name of the pharmacy!
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 September 2011 - 19:18
What bothers me the most is not long hours, exclusion from events or frequent travel... the unpredictability is what drives me INSANE! Never know when he'll be done for the day (could be 4PM... could be 4AM, seriously), never know when they might ask him to travel with only 24 hours of notice, never know when they'll make him work weekends, never know when we can go on vacation (they can ask that you change your vacation after you get it approved and tickets and reservations! UGH makes it impossible to plan anything)... as someone who always plans for the future and never procrastinates on being prepared it drives me NUTS! And it doesn't help that sometimes he forgets to mention things that he DOES know in advance! Oyyyy
singingcanary
304
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 27 September 2011 - 13:09
The Dubai Public Prosecution is implementing this for people entering the premises of...? Where? The entirety of Dubai?
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 September 2011 - 01:09
Thanks! I heard all the starbucks around here started using powdered milk this summer instead of fresh; maybe that's why your frapp tastes different? Ever since getting wind of that rumor I started avoiding starbucks so can't be sure; just what I heard!
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 September 2011 - 01:00
Ooooh really, where is that please? The first time I tried it, I hated it! But after a few times I began to love love love it. OH was the same. It kind of grows on you. Now it reminds me so much of Cali, would love to have a little taste of home.
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 26 September 2011 - 00:30
Anybody else love it? I got addicted when I lived in California... I know this is a long shot but recently had a craving for it and wondering if anybody had ever come across it in Dubai? =) Let me know please if you have!
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 20 September 2011 - 13:49
Oooh, you use hard lenses. I don't have that problem, but I refuse to use any contact solution other than "Clear Care" which is not sold outside the US (I think)... so I brought over 8 bottles when I moved here =D
singingcanary
304
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 September 2011 - 14:59
Australian Haas. And you have to know how to pick the ripe ones. Not too mushy, not too hard, the right dark color on the outside, and DEFINITELY no air pockets on the inside. Rather like Goldilocks.
 
 
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