skyfall | ExpatWoman.com
 

skyfall

skyfall
390
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 16 November 2015 - 05:55
I am guessing you will be as 'safe' as anywhere else right now :( Check out the Global Terrorism Report from 2014, that might help put your mind at ease about the UAE.
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 November 2015 - 17:54
...have gone through the roof! Does anyone know of an online service that delivers coconut products (apart from the Organic Cafe and Shop and Nutritina)? I refuse to pay AED50 for half a litre plain coconut yoghurt:angry::biggrin:
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 November 2015 - 17:49
There is a Sports Injury Clinic on Al Wasl road called Upandrunning where Dr. Anna consults on all sorts of injuries and they have physiotherapists and osteopaths with Clinical Pilates instructors to help any type of muscle/joint related injury. I have had a good experience with them in the long run. Or you could try Dr. Charles, chiropractor. Have you ever got to the bottom of the spasm? Do you know what causes it?
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 November 2015 - 17:45
Not sure if this helps but The White Company stocks hollowfibre pillows....
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 November 2015 - 17:42
If all else fails phone Virgin Megastore at Dubai Mall as they have a musical instruments section with trained staff (found a guitar teacher/fixer from there once), they might be able to advise further...
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 November 2015 - 17:39
Dr. Hauschka and REN are really good as well although they are in the upper price ranges.
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 November 2015 - 17:37
Best is to call them and ask per stylist as well as it varies, it also depends on hair length and what you are after.
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 November 2015 - 14:14
It's cheaper to get travel insurance for her that includes emergency medical care as well from her home country. Mind you, purely health insurance costs for the elderly are extremely high across the board generally speaking....
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 November 2015 - 08:06
Utterly awful. Sad for both sides, attacks like this only leads to fear and discrimination of peaceful Muslims who don't deserve it. Hard to feel safe in today's world...:(
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 November 2015 - 20:33
Hmmm...all my years in Dubai I am yet to come across a handyman who charges by the hour :-) I know of Al Waqt services and they have a plumber and an electrician who can do the work but it is all based on a quote depending of what requires to be done. Alternatively try Jim'll Fix It...I have used them for many years now, can't fault their work though they are a tad more expensive...
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 November 2015 - 19:57
It's all about the money. Amazingly enough when finances are involved people can become considerate and respectful of others. Utterly sad world we live in. If the owner threatens to call the police, just tell them you welcome the idea as it is the Building Management's responsibility to provide ALL tenants with a healthy and safe environment to live in. Then tell police how the parents allow their children scream and disrespect people who pay service charges and try to live a peaceful life. Tell police parents encourage antisocial behaviour and disrespect of authority. Call the Municipality to say the Building Management ignore the rules they tried to implement and do 'illegal' stuff like no lifeguards at all times (Article 48&49), hassle to tenants from unruly kids, etc....
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 November 2015 - 11:20
Hmmm...it sounds like there are a few issues here: 1) The owners don't care if their child drowns or not (this depends on the kids' age as well) 2) The lifeguard is not being monitored to check if he carries out his job as per his job description 3) Management Company does not back up security guards therefore they can't enforce the rules There is a clear issue with communication and support for the guards from the management's side. These issues will have to be discussed at an open forum with the management company as it is essential for the management to back up the security guards and introduce fines to owners who don't obey building rules and regulations. The question is: is there anything that says a child cannot be unsupervised in the pool in the building Swimming pool rules&regulations?
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 November 2015 - 10:35
Dr. Hamden at HRI, JLT. Highly knowledgable with tons of experience. Keith was very good at LifeWorks, Helen Williams is equally lovely.
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 November 2015 - 10:26
I have a Le Creuset pan that I use for frying eggs, it works a treat. To my knowledge the teflon is only harmful if you scrape it with metal spoons etc that take those small particles up from the bottom that then get added to your food..?! Might be wrong though...
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 November 2015 - 10:21
Try Jenny at Origins off SZR. Or alternatively order a few from amazon as some sellers deliver here.
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 November 2015 - 10:18
No insurance is not a good thing for starters in Dubai but seeing you are in this situation already try a government hospital and ask for their prices. Otherwise best bet is the country you came from if you cannot afford the government fees either.
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 November 2015 - 10:16
Genuinely accurate information is hard to come by at times in Dubai:\: Usually when I call RERA/Municipality I ask for the person's name and designation as well as that tends to put me through to someone who actually for sure know what they are talking about:cool:
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 November 2015 - 10:14
Your first step is Building Facilities Management Cc-ing the whole world on all emails quite literally, demand to be heard at one of their meetings and try to get support from fellow tenants, preferably owners of units. Keep all correspondance with them. If your Building Management is genuinely terrible, it is something the Owner's Association (if there is one where you live) can change. Otherwise call the Municipality and report them. It is mandatory to have a lifeguard during operational hours of a swimming pool: “Lifeguards are important and must be available full time at swimming pools during the opening hours,” he said. “The lifeguard must be qualified and certified for life-saving technique, first aid and CPR procedures.” Got this from an article from March this year. Hope this helps.:)
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 November 2015 - 10:02
L.O.V.E. I.T.! :biggrin: Today's sky is more blue and fresher too...gorgeous day!
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 November 2015 - 10:00
I used to go there with long dyed hair, they did an awesome job though I must warn you it always depends on the stylist you book with. They do tend to change them a lot. Quality is not an overall factor across the board so to say. If you are ultra worried, I recommend Patrick for colour at the Ritz Carlton as he corrects others' botched dye or highlight jobs as well and been going to him for donkeys years, they have a guy there who does amazing blow dries too and an English lady who cuts hair beautifully.
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 November 2015 - 09:55
As others stated before, the rent can go up after the 1st year. It is always whatever the RERA calculator says.
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 October 2015 - 19:20
Dr. Christian Jozsa did the same laparoscopic surgery on me at City Hospital, went smoothly, felt very reassured and super happy with him and staff there too :)
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 October 2015 - 12:23
If all else fails, order it on Amazon and get it delivered here. I've ordered a bunch of stuff and always manage to find some seller who delivers here ;)
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 October 2015 - 12:12
Cherpie, has your situation improved?I hope you are doing well after reading this thread...
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 October 2015 - 12:02
I'm sure Stepping Stones Center in Healthcare City will be happy to give guidance as they are always in need of extra hands! They are an amazing special needs organization and volunteering there is a very rewarding experience that will also look good on any CV in the future.
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 October 2015 - 11:54
I have transported candles many times with no issues, wrapped in bubble wrap and safely secured in hand luggage to counteract for any room for movement. Have never been asked to open it and show, etc... BUT just to be on the safe side as you never know with airport security, best to put them in your checked-in luggage (if you'll have one).
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 October 2015 - 11:52
Icicle in the Marina, where a Greek lady, called Eva does funky and unusual Shellac styles with a passion, 3D nails, etc...lovely, educated conversation, tea&coffee, nice owner = great atmosphere.... Tried NStyle, Shellac came off after a week, went back again to give them another chance only for the same thing to happen...it was all very robotic as well...but I guess some people need a quick in and out service at times of rush so for those it could work well...I prefer to relax, have an educated conversation with a quick and quality service.
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 October 2015 - 10:10
Welcome to the sandpit! ;-) I can understand what you are going through as I went through the same as soon as my feet hit the ground here. Constant fatigue, lack of energy, zest for life zero, all I felt like doing was eat and sleep. Then a thyroid diagnosis made me realize it wasn't really 100% Dubai that created this feeling in me but a genuine disorder as well. Now, that's not to say the constant AC, awful air quality or just simply the lack of fresh air did not have an affect on me. You can either fight it or do something about it. After fighting it for 2-3 years I finally gave in and chose the latter. Wish I had done it earlier. There are tons of things to do in Dubai and the surrounding Emirates, it will take time for you to find where you belong, to create a tight circle of friends, to build up a routine. Once you accomplish all those, it will become so much easier. I experienced breakouts as well, no hair fall though and rather interestingly both my hair and nail grow like crazy here! Nonetheless, we have invested in some water filters for our shower (MoE sells them) and cleaned the tap filters everywhere, also stopped drinking the tap water as it was too full of metals that can cause mood swings, fatigue, etc... Respiratory illnesses are of abundance here, in my family we all had pneumonia within 6-12 months of arriving (plus bronchitis, throat infection, sinusitis, asthma) so as a precaution we take vitamins now, try to eat healthily, pay attention to personal hygiene a bit more (always sanitize hands after travelling on the Metro, etc) and touch wood, been illness free for a couple of years now. You can swim, cycle, run, play tennis, volleyball, netball, hike, do water sports, go to the gym, do tons of different classes (if you tell a gym you've never been and are thinking of signing up they'll give you a free trial class winkwink), train for challenges like the Desert Warrior, do crossfit, polefit, twerking, burlesque, pilates, yoga, zumba, martial arts....the world is your oyster! Everyone is in the same boat trying to find exercises that suit them which in return has generated a very wide variety of interesting and most importantly fun activities that were not available 10 years ago to this extent. You can find most also offer ladies only groups if that is your preference. If you are worried it might be something more serious, run some blood tests for thyroid, vitamin B&D, full blood count, oh and that pregnancy test everyone is talking about :-D Your body will adjust, give it time. But more importantly give yourself time and your mojo will be knocking on the door. :biggrin:
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 October 2015 - 09:36
We are thinking of getting rid of our silver TEKA fridge/freezer...It does make a loud crackling noise when the freezer compartment automatically defrosts now and then but apart from that works like a treat, fits into a 60cmx60cm space.
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 October 2015 - 09:22
If you are comfortable with a male doctor I highly recommend Dr. Christian Jozsa at Health Bay Polyclinic he is affiliated with City Hospital, he operated on me there. I have been seeing him for years and years....
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 June 2015 - 13:24
There is a tailor next to Nespresso in MoE, been taking clothes there forever, they do a good job. They might be able to help with the sleeves too. Jumeirah Beach Hotel also has a tailor on the 1st floor, might be worth giving them a call too, if for nothing else to check the price.
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 June 2015 - 12:11
Please keep me posted on how it goes! If they are very good I will go with them too as they are cheaper :-DDDDDDD Thanks!
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 June 2015 - 12:07
Icicle spa in Dubai Marina does kids haircuts...call them for a price :-)
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 June 2015 - 12:05
Try this website, you can sit an exam in certain courses in Dubai too and they do send out Certificates from the relevant universities/colleges. https://www.futurelearn.com If you are into fitness Real Pilates at JLT has an instructor that is an Examiner for STOTT Pilates, they might be able to help...
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 June 2015 - 11:54
I second Dr. Donatella. Really lovely and listens. :-)
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 June 2015 - 11:46
Elmex is something I literally buy by the bucket load when I'm in Europe. You can buy lots of things here but not everything is of the high quality you might be used to or is that healthy. I would bring very specific spices too that are local to you, as again, the colour or taste of it here might be very different despite of the 1000's of variations :-D
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 June 2015 - 11:41
Best bet is the German Neuroscience Centre without a doubt. Good psychiatrists will cost you money, same as other mental healthcare workers who give you their time and true attention. When they cost a lot of money and all they want to do is prescribe medication after only 15 minutes you know to leave. Make sure they know you as a whole, with blood tests for vitamins/minerals/hormones/adrenal functioning/etc...plus your life history, behavioural patterns, diet and exercise regime, sexual health and wellbeing, your support network of family and friends plus psychometric testing, THEN after that let him/her come up with a label. If they make you feel bullied, guilty, forced or intimidated just leave. I have seen way too many with belittling authoritative streaks. Diagnosing someone accurately is complex, there has to be an understanding that you are not only there to swallow pills though they might form an important part of recovery (don't forget that most doctors in private practice get paid to prescribe drugs by the pharmaceutical companies, especially for schizophrenia). [I had a very dear close family member who I accompanied to many visits with many different psychiatrists over many years in various parts of the world and this is my experience of what I saw with her. It wasn't a pretty one but it helped my relative and I do hope you find the help you are looking for.'>
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 June 2015 - 08:16
This might be a daft question, but have you called the Whirlpool after sales Service?! After sales & service number Phone: +971 4 2310300 Timings:8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Hope this helps.
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 June 2015 - 08:06
I struggled finding a place that genuinely passes unwanted items onto people needing them. So now I usually ask the security guards at our building if they have families/children and give it to them, they are only too happy to receive them. I also give any unwanted items to our cleaner and her extended family.
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 June 2015 - 08:01
After trying various AC maintenance companies I just stuck with Jim Will Fix It, yes, they are probably the most expensive BUT they do turn up on time, do the job very well which includes: cleaning the filters in every unit, cleaning the grills, flushing the system with small amount of Dettol added to the water, cleaning the long white air duct covers, checking that all units work well, checking if your ducts need to be cleaned, if your controls work, etc...Booking is very easy as the person answering the phone is usually British. They charge AED350 per unit and in case of 4 units the job lasts two and a half hours. I used cheaper companies before that charged AED200 for all the units per hour, etc but they were very unreliable, didn't clean the grills, had to be told everything, damaged my walls, didn't speak any English or Arabic...got very fed up after so many years. Somehow the mouldy smell always came back with those companies too but with JWFI it has disappeared forever. They also do a big clean that involves getting all the ducts cleaned too and it is recommended every year once, the other let's say every 3-4 months, but I only do it every 6 months. The big clean every 2 years. The prices are what I get quoted, not sure if it changes according to location or it is the same for everyone. Works for us and our respiratory systems, having struggled with pneumonia and chest infections constantly.... P.S. I am not affiliated with them just before someone asks, just very happy with their service, so far, fingers crossed. I do wish they charged less though.
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 July 2014 - 17:20
I was just about to add that as majority are classed as 'local hires' you probably won't get any benefits, will have to be on a father's or spouse's visa and the salary isn't that good. Almost all jobs advertised on expatwoman require family sponsorship, so I second this...not sure OP's friend would come alone or with husband/family?!
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 July 2014 - 17:01
Hi ladies, Are any of you working in the offices (non teaching positions) e.g. Admissions/Registrar/admin etc? My friend is planning to move to Dubai and is from UK - she has a lot of experience in Admissions and other office based roles in the education industry. She has tried contacting a lot of agencies in dubai but none deal with education. She also tried Linkedin and also sent her cv directly to schools and universities. Does anyone know of any good Recruitment agents dealing with these type of jobs? Also anyone know of any vacancies in their schools/universities? What type of hours do you work during the week; holidays and rough idea on salaries would be really really helpful. Thank you I know of an educational insitute where only certain nationalities seem to get these jobs, at least at this institute, and the salary is generally speaking quite low for even a 9-5...
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 July 2014 - 16:57
I would ask for an appointment to see the Facilities Management and the Building Management personnel and give them a huge telling off. Always works for me and miraculously foul smell, dripping AC sorted...emails dont work that well in my view in this part of the world. Let them put a face to the mails....This is if the smell is due to the building's fault. Don't forget everything that happens within the flat is the landlord's responsibility, this includes ceiling and walls too. Building is not liable for this. Does foul water smell come from your taps too or drains? Btw if it comes from your roof/ceiling, I would get a handyman to investigate it as it could be that insulation needs to be changed on the AC pipes within your apartment, the water heater is leaking/broken...etc...in both cases let the landlord know of this and proceed to book a handyman, first getting a quote for call out, conveying that to your landlord and go ahead, get receipt and get money back. We had very similar issues, turned out our water heater was leaking, plus AC needed servicing causing pipe blockage causing water dripping into ceiling. Plus the insulation came apart which resulted in even more water dripping into the ceiling. Maintenance of pipes and water heaters plus AC has to be done every 6 months in Dubai I learnt. <em>edited by skyfall on 06/07/2014</em>
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 July 2014 - 16:49
*bump*
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 July 2014 - 16:46
I'm also concerned about the plastic water bottles. I've decided to get a filter and BPA free bottles (long-lasting ones) . I have been using a filter in the form of BRITA jug but the water is still gross with brownish residue and slime in it though it has been cleared by DM to be bacteria free, I am still concerned. I have always refused to spend on bottled water as its just awful for the environment and your pocket but now I have to buy it...so frustrating...
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 July 2014 - 16:44
The cost of these should be paid by your employer, not you. They are about 1000-2000 dirhams. This was not the case with me, I had to pay for both when I started work for a big financial company many many years ago...has it changed now? I believe it has always been the same, ALL recruitment fees must be paid by the employer in accordance with labour laws. Guess I was taken for a ride back then...doh!
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 July 2014 - 08:00
The cost of these should be paid by your employer, not you. They are about 1000-2000 dirhams. This was not the case with me, I had to pay for both when I started work for a big financial company many many years ago...has it changed now?
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 July 2014 - 07:53
I disagree that all state schools are rubbish. My friends little ones went to a school in SW London, only had to pay for usual, uniform (which was only an apron, but did the job perfectly well) and books, etc...all children are extremely bright, well-mannered, took part in music lessons, lots of creative classes, etc....they learnt to deal with people from all cultures, religions, ethnicities... The fee mentioned by her is accurate though for private....
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 July 2014 - 07:17
Champions in DIFC, been going there for 6 years without an issue, had silk, all sorts of materials cleaned by them...suits...etc... <em>edited by skyfall on 06/07/2014</em>
skyfall
390
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 July 2014 - 07:14
Hijack continued (apologies): I would advise getting Paula Begoun's book on cosmetics if you are looking for the best affordable eye cream, bit of an eye-opener and if you believe that a AED580 eye cream will do the trick you might want to think again. (not saying you do) It's brilliant for all types of make-up, skincare products and you might find what you are looking for in there without wasting too much money. She recommends Olay Regenerist Eye Lifting Serum or Olay Pro-X Restoration Complex. She is independent and bases this on the fact that eye creams don't actually do more than your regular face cream but have added ingredients that are beneficial for skin ANYWHERE on the face. Other eye-creams (in ingredient) are no better than your regular moisturizer, this is a fact. It's a money making machinery..it's a well-known marketing strategy, smaller pots selling the same products for higher price under a new name with a few ingredient changes that make no difference. Some people of course are convinced they need a separate eye-cream... edited by skyfall on 06/07/2014 <em>edited by skyfall on 06/07/2014</em>
 
 
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