suznz

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Latest post on 22 November 2014 - 10:54

Thanks everyone! Order has been placed, now waiting for its delivery!! Yay! Should be around Thursday. I don't think my husband will be too impressed as I think this could possibly be the start of a new (bad!) habit. Still didn't order everything that I wanted, so another order will be placed soon (with some things for myself and maybe for him too as this one was all for my DD)!

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Latest post on 01 November 2014 - 09:57

My parents wanted to do a camel ride in the desert (they had already done a desert safari with a camel ride but it wasn't enough!) when they were here beginning of Oct. We went with Al Sahara stables who offer a 'Camel Encounter'. It was fabulous! We were introduced to the camels, told a lot of facts about them, then went on a 45min plus (it was more like an hour). We all loved it - including my three year old daughter who did not want to get off the camel (even after an hour!) and then did not want to leave them! To finish off the experience, you can taste camels milk if you like. Highly recommend it

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Latest post on 06 December 2013 - 14:04

It is horrid!! I had it 2 weeks ago and was admitted into hospital for two days. I don't think I have ever been so sick in my entire life! And I had appendicitis last year!! It comes on so suddenly and violently that you don't know what has hit you. I too looked like I was nine months pregnant - my abdomen was so swollen and tender. I would have vomited close to 30 times in less than 3 hours. And it wasn't even just from one end everything was coming out of - it was both!! (Very sorry for TMI but if you get it you want to be prepared with a bucket in the bathroom too!!) I spent those 2 days in hospital on constant IV fluids and antibiotics up until I was discharged and the specialist did confirm that it was gastroenteritis. The nurses said that there was also another patient admitted with it too. It took me about a week to feel 'normal' again and actually able to eat properly. I have heard of several other people who have had it too. You have to watch out for dehydration as it is a vicious circle - the vomiting, will of course, cause dehydration and dehydration will cause vomiting. I was just glad that my 2 year old DD did/has not got it (yet!). Too make things even more stressful, my DH was away in NZAus and we don't have a maid but thankfully my friends all helped to look after her and my SIL took the Sunday off work to have her for the day. I can't thank them enough!! The one and only time I was away from DD for the day/night was when I had my appendix out! NannyMcphee, I hope you feel 100% soon and don't have too much of looking after the others to do! And I agree that if you do get it, seek medical attention

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Latest post on 27 October 2013 - 16:48

I would be very interested in those terms and salary (if there is some flexibility)! To me that sounds like a perfect job! I've got a 2 year old DD in nursery a few mornings a week and have been planning what to do when I return to the workplace. The hours and flexibility sound great. I have a Bachelor of Applied Communication (majoring in Marketing and Advertising) and have qualifications in Business Administration. I have previous experience as a PA (before moving to Dubai) and customer service (cabin crew for Emirates). And my brain is always up for a challenge! If your husband does decide to take this route, please let me know as I would be interested.

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Latest post on 15 September 2013 - 23:50

I have just starting sending my 2 year old DD to nursery. Although she has only been there just over a week, I have already seen big (positive!) changes in her. Last week, she only went for a few hours every day and tomorrow is her first 'full' day (she will only go two days a week to start with). I was also dithering whether to send her or not. She does suffer from separation anxiety but is very independent once comfortable in a situation and she did not prove me wrong! I wanted her to start nursery so she is able to cope with going to school a bit easier (and also with the school assessment - I'm still undecided whether she will do foundation at nursery or at school yet) and also socialize to a bit more (and learn from) other children who are a bit older. We will still be going to other classes during the week so we can do them together. I also needed to get time away from her (as mean as that sounds, I'm a SAHM and my DH is constantly away for his job, she also needs time away from me too and I think it is great if she bonds with another adult who is not family or she sees on a day-to-day all-the-time basis!) So far she is very happy at nursery and has made some friends already. I think it is a decision that only you can make and the nursery itself plays a big role - only you know what is right for you and your DD. I was very selective over the nursery I sent her too and so far, have been very happy with the nursery, the director, DD's teachers and all the staff. If the cons out way the pros, maybe it's not the right time for you to send her to nursery or perhaps it is not the right nursery? Good luck with you decision - I know it's not an easy one to make!

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Latest post on 02 August 2013 - 17:50

The new play area opened up a few weeks ago. It's now located where Magrudy's used to be (on the 2nd floor).

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Latest post on 24 June 2013 - 23:10

I loved using the carrier in the airport and on/off the aircraft. It certainly freed up a hand or two for all of our luggage! I know when checking in strollers with EK, they are taken with the oversized/fragile items (not on the belt). I normally wrap mine twice in bubble wrap and then plastic wrap in airport and have never had any damage done so far (stroller has done extensive travel in 2 years - 5x return trips to NZ, several to Lebanon and one to Germany) I've always collected them by the oversize/fragile items too (except in Beirut). They have often put fragile stickers on it as well. I've seen ground handlers throwing strollers into the aircraft when they've been in a hurry to load and depart (I'm ex-crew) and heard too many stories of damaged strollers when they've been checked in at the gate. In my opinion, I would only check a cheap stroller in at the gate in case something happens to it. But I think that's just me - I just don't want anything to happen to my stroller. I love it too much!!

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Latest post on 24 June 2013 - 20:47

Carrefour sells large rolls of bubble wrap. Think it's approx round 30 aed (but my memory is a bit sketchy there!) However, I would recommend wrapping your pushchair at home, then getting it plastic wrapped in the airport and checking it in to make sure it's well protected (I do this to mine), then use a baby carrier in the airport (or EK pushchair). You may be pushed for time to wrap it properly at the gate but the main concern (for me anyway with an expensive stroller) is that strollers very often get thrown into the hold and broken. At most airports, you may not get the stroller back until the luggage carousel so I highly recommend taking a carrier with you anyway. I've travelled a lot with my DD (mainly all on my own!) and I don't think I could have done it without it!

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Latest post on 21 June 2013 - 11:47

My friend got my DD a lunch box personalised with her name on it for her first birthday with some snacks inside (Pottery Barn Kids). I love it and so does my DD! It's still going strong a year later (although I did just get a replacement one!). I actually got one for a friend's DD's first birthday a few weeks ago too and filled it with goodies including a cutlery set.

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Latest post on 09 May 2013 - 17:11

I am ex-crew and transferred to my DH's visa (cabincrew). It was almost a year and a half now and I resigned at the end of my maternity leave so hopefully I can help! It is possible to do the medical through the company and transfer the visa through them too but we found it cheaper and quicker to do it at the DNRD in Bin Sougat. I exited the country once my visa was cancelled and then re-entered with the entry permit slip (DH went to DNRD while I was away to process the entry permit) and once I arrived back to Dubai, he took my passport in to put in the visa. I know the visa was about dhs500 and took less than an hour to process. If I didn't exit the UAE, it would have cost an extra dhs500 approx (from memory) to transfer visa status. It was actually very quick and easy and no drama! I can remember that the checkin staff in Auckland (on my return to Dubai), did want to see my entry permit slip on checkin. I think the documents needed will need a certified copy of the marriage certificate, and I think know they need a certified copy of the tenency agreement (sorry, can't remember the number of photos needed though). It really wasn't difficuilt, but in the beginning we got the run around too. HTH edited to add - I would think that you would be able to get the medical blood test done at a govt clinic <em>edited by suznz on 09/05/2013</em>

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Latest post on 25 February 2013 - 18:24

Has anyone experienced a labral tear in their hip before and had successful surgery? I have just been diagnosed and was planning to have Platelet Rich Plasma injections, however, my insurance will not cover these (and we can not currently afford them on our own). So it looks like surgery is more of an option than I would have liked it to be. Has anyone had surgery for this (in/out of Dubai) and can share their experience with recovery times, etc - it would be greatly appreciated! TIA

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Latest post on 17 February 2013 - 23:22

I totally agree with you. I have told kids off in playgrounds when I've been there with DD and friends who are all under two. I was at one of the playgrounds in our complex this morning and a little boy of 3 years turned up with no one supervising him. I had no idea which building he had come from, but it was scary as he was riding a bike and could have easy been hit by a car. It's not the first time I've seen him playing there by himself. All I can think of is his safety - he did fall today off a low swing type of thing and luckily didn't hurt himself. I made sure he was alright and gave him a cuddle. He then hopped on his bike and went home. I watched which building he went to and looked to see if there was at least someone watching from the balcony (could see no one unfortunately and the majority of the playground is covered by a shade cover so you wouldn't be able to see properly anyway). It saddens me, and frightens me as well, that a little boy can be left on his own like that. What if he had seriously injured himself and no one was with him/or no one knew where he lived or how to contact his parents? What happens if he was hit by a car on his was to the playground? What happens if he runs off? What happens if someone takes him? There was no one to protect the little guy. Where are his parents or the maid/nanny? I understand that his parents are highly likely at work and they have a maid supervising him, but maybe they do not know that the maid is letting him go by himself? My husband thinks I should let it go but I keep thinking of all the things that could happen. I don't want to interfere with anyones raising of their child but I can't help it when it comes to their safety. What would you do?

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Latest post on 04 January 2013 - 22:24

I had it a few weeks ago and it's horrid!! I hope you feel better soon. It came on so very fast and took a while to fully recover. I have never, ever felt so cold in all my life!! It went to my bones and my entire body was aching! It hit me too like a head flu, but without the normal cold (snotty like) symptoms. I haven't felt anything like this before. My husband was in fits of laughter when he came home to find me in bed with about three jumpers on, two pairs of socks, a thick duvet, a blanket, with a scarf around my neck and a woolly hat on! Then he realised how bad it was when he added more blankets, a hot water bottle, another jacket and I still wasn't warming up and was vomiting (not good when you have a throat infection too!). I had already been to the hospital that day (after a whole lot of tests, they suspected a viral infection) so had a bag full of medications. My temp peaked at 40 degrees later that night. It took me well over a week (almost two weeks) to feel 100% again. It really took a lot out of me. I also came out in a rash about 4/5 days after the first symptoms showed. My 18 month old DD had it the week before, but not nearly as bad as it hit me. Her friends had it too, so we think they must have picked it up from a soft play area we were at a few days before they all came down with it. Hope you feel better soon. Make sure you rest and drink plently of fluids x

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Latest post on 09 September 2012 - 22:46

I feel for you having a child with food allergies and especially flying with them! I have an allergy to gluten and my DD (15 months) is showing reactions too (so following several drs advice, she is on a gluten free diet as well). So packing food for both of us on long haul flights is often fun (and also pack backups in case the special meal, if ordered, hasn't been loaded or given to someone else! It's happened to me - the only time I didn't bring food for the flight, so I went hungry for 13 hours! The crew did bring a small salad and a banana however for the 1st service, but was relieved when my meal was there for the second sector!!) Technically, as your child is under 2, you will not be able to order a childs meal. However, you could order a Non-Lactose meal for yourself perhaps (but then I don't think you can guarantee that it would be egg free? Low Cholesterol/Low Fat meal does not contain milk, cream, fat, cheese, egg yolks, or fatty meats. But it is not a problem to bring on your own food and probably much safer. The crew (should!) be happy to warm it up for you after the service has finished (or if they are not too busy, during it - if they are able too). I was always happy to warm up customers/passengers own food especially in the case of a food allergy as you really don't want to deal with an allergic reaction!! Advise the crew that your child does have allergies to eggs and milk (and any medications, ie.your own epipen if needed), so they are aware of it and therefore, do not give your child something containing them out just of kindness. Whenever I travel now, someone always will try and give my DD a biscuit/chocolate/or something else containing gluten and I'm quick to grap it (I really don't want to deal with her screaming out of discomfort and getting the runs when I'm having to travel for 20 hours!) I also take a lot of snacks with me too as I find that she won't eat a lot in one go and the snacks often distract her for a bit. Hope this helps and that you have a good flight

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Latest post on 03 September 2012 - 14:35

She was born June 2011. I was expecting her to automatically take DH's nationality on her birth cert to be honest and was quite surprised that it stated both of ours and not specified hers! ETA: And yes, she was born in the UAE. At Al Wasl Hospital. <em>edited by suznz on 03/09/2012</em>

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Latest post on 03 September 2012 - 13:36

My DH and I are from two different nationalities as well - NZ and Lebanon. Our DD, at this stage, only has my country of citizenship - the NZ and therefore, the passport which of course her visa is in. And we had absolutely no problem in getting her the NZ nationality and the UAE resident visa. On the birth cert, it states both parents nationalities and religions. We haven't got round to getting her Lebanese nationality at this point but will do in the future.

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Latest post on 02 September 2012 - 12:05

It's Mirdif City Centre, but Minutes have branches in most malls. I know of Deira City Centre, Dubai Mall, Mall of Emirates, Festival City (opp. Hyperpanda).

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Latest post on 02 September 2012 - 08:09

I'm not sure I could be of much help, but I just got my Iphone screen repaired at Minutes - MCC (and they are a very similar/if not the same??) as it had taken a beating - had big crack in it from when I dropped it, then for some stupid unreason I had left it on top of my one year old DD's highchair who promptly threw it before I had realised what I had done, which finally finished the glass off! It was dhs300 and they took just under an hour.

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Latest post on 01 September 2012 - 22:36

Sorry that this has happened to you at this stage of your pregnancy - not an added stress that was needed! I delivered at Latifa in June last year (also a high risk pregancy) and highly recommend them. However, you do have to register with them before 29 weeks (but I doubt they would turn away someone as far as long as you though and in need). It will cost you at least dhs 12,000 (dhs5,000 antenatal - we were told that everyone has to pay this - and dhs7,000 for natural). Your husband will not be allowed in the labour suite but will be in the delivery room (but you are able to go out and see him until it all becomes too much or you have epidural of course!). So ,in your case, I think you need to bite the bullet and go to Iranian. Do you have any close friends that you would like to be there with you and will support you? I had a good friend with me in the labour suite and she was a life saver (poor thing, however, did not expect to be that person and unfortunately for her, turned up just as it all got too much!) But she was brilliant and I did need her there. I used to work as cabin crew and I strongly agree that you do not fly. Apart from getting a letter from your OBGYN for clearance, you also need to get clearance from the medical department of the airline (which being high risk and very late, I doubt you would get). The aircraft is not a clean environment to delivery a baby and since your pregnancy is high risk, you do not want medically untrained cabin crew delivering your baby (yes they are trained in delivering but not indepth) and if something goes wrong, it takes time to divert and get to a hospital. Personally, I would not put myself or my baby at risk. I had a high risk pregnancy as well and was unable to fly home so had to change our plans, at 29 weeks, to have our DD here (and we didn't have insurance as I was insured through work and when I declared the pregnancy, it ceased) . I hope you manage to sort it all out soon. Go down to Iranian tomorrow and find out more info and talk to the drs and have a look at the maternity ward. Good luck and hopefully you will be holding your precious bubs very soon

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Latest post on 08 July 2012 - 12:08

Hi, my daughter will be joining Emirates in a couple of weeks, coming from the US. Should she bring UAE currency, credit card or traveler checks to get her settled for the first few days? I don't want her to be stranded not being able to buy food or basic necessities the first few days. Any other tips to get her started ould be great as well! Thank you! She will be given money when she arrives here. The first half of her salary That is enough for food and other items like a cellphone sim card. She already has a landline telephone in her room. She doesnt need to buy tv's,computers,ipad etc. in her first month. Most crew buy it later with their salaries unless she is high maintenance...I had a flatmate whose mom sent money to her bank account as she was crying over the phone because she didnt have enough money for Gucci sunglasses! She will also have basic food items and cleaning items given to her. Theres no need for extra money. Im surprised a previous crew member suggested it. They will take well care of her when she arrives. Dont worry. edited by Appletiser on 08/07/2012 Of course they will take good care of her, but that advance that they give is primarily for basic needs to get you through the training. Why are you surprised that I suggested bringing over money? I'm not high maintainence, but I know some go overboard and get themselves into trouble in the first few months. And I wasn't suggesting that the first thing to go and buy is a tv, laptop, etc - I was just wanting to highlight the fact that she may have to buy a tv,etc at some point, not necessarily right away! Yes, EK do look after new crew extremely well but some are overwhelmed by the shopping and partying that Dubai has to offer that they find themselves really struggling.

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Latest post on 07 July 2012 - 23:10

In my opinion and experience, it is best if she brings as much money as possible to get her through the first few months. Although she will get an advance during the training period, they will deduct it from her salary so money could be a bit tight for a while! Also, depending on her accommodation, if in new and depending on flatmates (if any), there are added costs - tv, internet, microwave, kettle, iron, etc. If she is lucky to get in an 'established' apartment, it's highly likely that the existing flatmate/s have already bought the essentials and will share them (that of course, if they will!) When I joined, I was lucky enough to move into an apartment where previous crew had left items when they moved out but as there are lots of new crew accommodation these days, it doesn't happen (or can't as they are brand new buildings!) I think that there are two items that she should purchase when she first arrives (or as soon as she can) - 1) Dubai sim card/phone (either Du or Etisalat) and 2) Iron - as silly as it sounds, it is her responibility to make sure that her uniform is uncreased and presentable (during training it's the red EK t-shirt and her own black pants). Some new crew forget this and spend all their money on going shopping or partying (which is very easy to do!!) and not buying items that are necessary! Like the others have said, there are places in the airport to exchange money. And all the malls have exchange places too, so it is very easy to exchange almost any currency in Dubai! I was going to suggest that when she arrives, and of course if she wants to, I could meet her and show her round Dubai to get her bearings a bit as I know it's all very daunting to start with. But unfortunately, I'm trying to get on a flight to go home for a few weeks. But I'm more than happy to do when I get back (should be the beginning of August). Hope she enjoys her last few weeks at home. It's such an exciting time - I still remember it clearly and that was over 6 and a half years ago! HTH

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Latest post on 05 July 2012 - 18:40

Sorry, I really did write a book!

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Latest post on 05 July 2012 - 18:39

I developed a massive DVT at 29 weeks and was admitted for just over a week. At the same time, it was discovered that my DD had an etopic heartbeat. They were also concerned as my bump was very small. For the remainder of my pregnancy, I was having fortnightly scans at the Foetal Maternal Monitoring Unit to monitor the baby (as well as my fortnightly/then weekly antenatal appointments). I was induced at 37 weeks as she had not grown since the previous scan, and to top it off, I also had pre-eclampsia. I was admitted that afternoon and was not allowed to leave to go home and get my bag (and DH was away at the time and I stupidly had not put my hospital bag in the car! There was talk of inducing, but thought it would be a few days away!) As I was taking blood thinning injections (and took one only a couple of hours before the scan), they had to wait till the next morning to start the induction incase there was any complications. However, all went well! DD's heartbeat had corrected itself before that last scan but had an ECG done on her second day before we were discharged to make sure everything was okay. It did show some stress to the heart, so we were kept in for another night to be monitored and a repeat ECG. It was a good thing however, as by that stage she did need light therapy treatment for her jaundice. The day after we were discharged, we had to return to get her jaunice levels checked and they had gone up so we were then admitted overnight for more treatment. Once discharged again, we had to go back several times the next week to make sure that they were decreasing. The aftercare you receive from the Lactation Consultants are amazing and I have never heard of such good care/help with breastfeeding anywhere before. The overall cost of the first week in hospital was very small. It was around Dhs2,500 for 8 days/nights (in a shared room - I didn't mind and when I private became available, I was too comfortable where I was and the company was actually quite nice! The majority of the time, I was either the only one in the room or there was only one other patient. Being stuck in a bed unable to move was bad enough and I had to call a nurse to take me to the bathroom (which was only about 4 metres away) as they would not allow me to walk for the first 4 days or leave my room (being pushed in a wheelchair). My DH almost had a heartattack when the nurse told him to only take me near the emergency dept in case part of the clot had broken away and went to my lungs or if I did go into preterm labour!! When I delivered, we requested a private room and on the second day one did became available, but again I was quite happy to stay in the shared room. To me, it was just like the public hospital in NZ (where I would have been if I had delivered there - it was the plan, as I was due to fly out to NZ on my 30th week!) I also paid the Dhs5,000 antenatal costs, Dhs7,000 for delivery and think it was under a Dhs1,000 for two ECGs, a night stay in the paediatric ward with the phototherapy treatment. They cover all medications needed while in the hospital which was good as the clexane injections cost almost Dhs100 a day! I also had a couple of postpartum appointments - one was free and the other was Dhs250. Blood tests cost extra depending of the tests (but not very much) and specialist appointments are Dhs250. If I had gone privately when I was first admitted with the DVT, we worked out that it would have been well over Dhs10,000. And as I lost my insurance through my company when I declared my pregnancy (but did get the health card), I was glad that we went to Al Wasl (Latifa)! Because of the care I received during that week, I was very happy to continue and have the delivery there. I know that its 'no frills/not fancy' isn't for everyone, nor having to see a different dr at each appointment suits some, but for me it worked and it was quite a good thing to get a different approach/take on a situation. You are assigned a head consultant and their team of drs. They all knew my case in detail and I felt that I didn't have to explain my situation at all at each visit. The head consultant had the final say in almost every aspect of my care and I could not fault her. While I was in labour, she did come and check up on me to see how things were progessing. The only thing that if I would complain about it, but to me I wasn't that bothered by it, was that labour suite. DH could not come in while I was in labour as it's a shared room, but I spent the early stage of labour out with him and only went in to the labour suite for the CTG's and when it all got too much. I was lucky to have a very good girlfriend who was in there with me. And for the actual delivery, you are moved to the delivery suite where DH can be with you for the birth! You may have to wait a while at your appointments but I discovered it was best to book as early as possible in the morning, even trying to get the first appointment of the day. Some days, I even saw the dr earlier than my booked appointment time. Sorry, I have realised that I've written a book here! But I had a very good experience in Latifa and I will be back there again for the next one (if we are still in Dubai of course!) and even though our insurance covers (yes, I have private insurance now!) private hospitals, it would be my first choice.

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Latest post on 05 July 2012 - 17:21

I developed a massive DVT while I was pregnant (29 weeks) and was admitted to Latifa. The care I received was excellent and I would highly recommend them. I was put on Clexane 60mg every 12 hours for the remaining of the pregnancy and for three months after. On investigations at 3 months postpartum, they discovered that I had Protein S Deficiency and will need to be back on Clexane for the next entire pregnancy (if not before we start trying). That's if we have another one - not looking forward to injecting every 12 hours for at least 12 months (just having to take the injections for flights is bad enough)! I haven't been to another Ob/Gyn here in Dubai regarding this, as I decided to stick with the drs at Al Wasl (Latifa - under head consultant Dr Josphine, the best one and her team of drs). If you do decided to go governmental with your care, all your appointments will be at the hospital itself as you're classified as high-risk. I have been to see Dr Khan,who is a haematologist/oncologist at American Hospital, who was very friendly and knowledgeable. HTH Edited to add: This was last year. <em>edited by suznz on 05/07/2012</em>

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Latest post on 05 July 2012 - 17:04

Last year when I delivered there, you had to register before the end of your 28th week. I'm not sure whether this is still the case but call them (before 2.30pm if calling the hospital) to check. I was 29 weeks when I was admitted in an emergency, and the Dr who admitted me was unsure whether they would (rather, have the space for me) as I had not registered. I continued to have all my care and delivery there (as both my baby and myself) were high-risk and I can highly recommend it. If I have another baby while in Dubai, I will definitely go back (for the level of care and previous history!) Congrats by the way on your pregnancy and hope it all goes well!

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Latest post on 20 June 2012 - 21:43

My mum could have written this 6 and a half years ago!! Congrats to your DD. It's such an exciting job and city to live in. I only left end of last year after having my baby and am still a little bit sad about it! My husband, however, is still cabin crew. I'm sure that between all of us here, we can answer any questions that you and your daughter may have.

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Latest post on 10 June 2012 - 22:23

Am going to run out tomorrow and get some! I'm getting desperate as nothing seems to be working either. I never had spots like these ones before and they are huge, under-the-skin bumps and almost always in the same place - blaaaaah... no amount of concealor can hide or disguise them! Thanks for letting us know of these Egg. It's much appreciated!

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Latest post on 05 June 2012 - 02:30

Just wondering if anyone knows if you still have to pay for the chicken pox vaccine at the govt clinics now that it is part of the NIP (I think since March)? Not that it costs very much, but just interested to find out! TIA

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Latest post on 27 May 2012 - 09:36

Centara! We stayed there on our honeymoon in June a few years ago and loved it! As it is not peak season, the island was almost empty - lovely! The staff are great (I have coeliac disease and everytime i walked to the buffet, there was someone there telling me exactly what I could or couldn't eat! The even had glutenfree pasta at the italian restaurant and the chef changed the 5 course meal to suit me! Never had service like that before or since!) The villas are lovely and the spa is great. We actually said that every year in June we would go back, but then our little one arrived in June last year so we've had to put that on hold till hopefully next year!

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Latest post on 13 May 2012 - 19:31

Dr Kowatli is a specialist in sleeping disorders at Amercian Hospital. They also have a sleep lab where they will monitor you overnight. I found him to be good (but he was the only specialist I saw in relation to the sleep problems I was having so can't compare!) HTH

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Latest post on 11 March 2012 - 20:54

Mamas and Papas sell them for Dhs499 (I think). They had them in a few weeks ago (in MCC) so don't know if they still have them

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Latest post on 05 March 2012 - 13:00

If you really need to go back to NZ, I would be going well before my 36th week! NZ is such a long way and with at least two take-off and landings to get there (possibly more), there is a lot of stress on your body. I was also cabin crew and have just resigned after having my first baby. Just to add to what Appletiser has said (and agree), that on route to Australia, the aircraft is at least three hours from the closet airport (on the main part of the flight). So diversion is not a 'quick lets land'. It's the equivalent of flying from Auckland to Sydney. And you can not guarantee that there will be a dr on-board. When you do fly, drink lots of water, keep walking and wear compression tights (not just socks) to prevent DVT. I was admitted into AW at 29 weeks and was unable to fly back to NZ for my DD's birth. And I knew the risks and thought I had done enough to prevent it. On the flights I did, I drunk litres of water, was very active but it was not enough. I had a clot from above my pelvis to my ankle that came almost immediately. And DVT inflight is a medical emergency. And I, up until that point, had the 'perfect pregnancy' with no issues! It all went wrong after that!! And just to add that I'm not overweight (nor was I during my pregnancy), am young, relatively active and was not on high risk to develop DVT so it can happen. The Dr's were surprised that this is what I had and just how big it was. And the first dr I saw, didn't diagnose DVT so you can't expect cabin crew or the medical team used on the ground (inflight) to correctly diagnose it. I didn't have the 'typical' symptoms of it which it why it was missed. I don't want to scare you, but to look at things that you may not have known or thought of. I hope that you have a good flight whenever you travel and that the rest of your pregnancy goes well!

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 02 March 2012 - 22:15

I was induced at 37 weeks due to low birth weight/size but I also had other issues too. But the main reason I was induced at that particular time was due to my DD's small size otherwise the OBGYN said that I probably could have gone another week. I was having scans done at the FMMU (due to DD having irregular heartbeat) so it was a specialist doing the scan not just an OBGYN. Apparently, my DD hadn't grown since the last scan two weeks earlier so they thought it was best that she came out rather than staying in. More damage than good can be done by staying in if they are not doing well. I didn't have an option on whether or not I did induce, if they could have done it that same day they would have done but I had taken my blood thinner injection just before the appointment so they wanted to wait at least 12 hours before they started the induction! My DD was still small when she was born but was slightly bigger than was estimated by the scan. You have to do want is right for you and your baby. And work out the risks involved (if any) in waiting. If you're still not 100% happy, no harm in getting a second opinion! Best of luck

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 01 March 2012 - 19:23

Minutes do it - opposite Hyperpanda. I had a pair of shoes resoled and they did a good job. It took 2/3 days to be done and they weren't that expensive (around DHS30 I think). HTH

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 23 February 2012 - 20:42

Am so sorry to hear of your loss. With heartfelt sympathy, may you feel everyones love embrace you during this difficult time xx

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 23 February 2012 - 17:46

I would definitely recommend Dr Jaffer Khan as well. He removed a suspicious mole from my face with little to no scarring. However, I do believe that it is also a good idea to get regular mole maps done as well. You can never be too careful!

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 11:58

Twins must keep you busy! I only have one 7 month old at the moment and she is enough to cope with so I can't imagine what two would be like!! Is there anyone that could take/look after the twins for you (friend), say once a week for even an hour? That way you could get some 'me' time and give you a break? If you would like to meet up at some stage, I'm more than happy too (and maybe, if you are comfortable with it, I wouldn't mind looking after your twins while you have a break). I know that could seem rather random - a stranger who has just offered to look after your children??!! I like what CABear has said 'sometimes just some adult conversation is really helpful!' And in my opinion, husbands just don't get how we are feeling all the time! I'm going back to NZ tomorrow for 2 weeks but will be back at the beginning of Feb, so if you would like to catch up please let me know.

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 16 January 2012 - 22:38

I'm sorry you are feeling this way. It is horrible when you can't sleep. It affects everything you do and how you feel (especially if it's continuous). I can sympathise with you as I have have times of insommia and a tendency towards depression (but of course can never fully understand just how you are feeling). I was even referred to the sleeping clinc at American Hospital once where it came back that I 'worry' before I sleep and was handed anti-depressants. I agreed that I am a worrier (especially when I have to operate a 14 hour flight when I hadn't slept in 5 days, yes I do worry! I was a cabincrew and I'm sure I wasn't very nice or positive to my now DH at that time) The dr even prescribed sleeping tablets for me but hey only worked the first night, then never again after that! I think that your feeling in your chest is due to anxiety (like others have said) It sounds like you have a lot going on at the moment. Take some time out to do something relaxing for yourself. I found hot baths and camomile tea (and others that help sleep) helped and also going for a walk. I think from what you have said about your husband's work situation, that you also have to allow yourself to have low moments (without going too low if that makes sense, you have every right!) Talking to someone that is a good listener is essential. I've had to teach myself that I can't do it all on my own (as I tried to in the beginning). But just getting how I'm feeling out into the open about a situation is good for me. Are you taking anti-histamines to try help you sleep? Several drs have told me to avoid taking them near bed time as they can actually keep you awake (even though some do make you feel drowsy). I also recommend that when you are able to (when you have medical insurance), get a full bloodwork done to see if there are any areas which you are lacking in incase they are also causing the insommia and fatigue (from my experience this does make a big difference). I hope this helps and that you manage to get some sleep soon

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 13 January 2012 - 12:45

That is wierd that they are being fined and shocking too. They have it stated on HR direct that the date residents/expats need to have it is 31st May 2012 (as I said earlier) but who knows?! I and my DD travelled on the 31st out of Dubai and entered on the 1st and nothing was said. I'm travelling again next week (but this time my visa is cancelled!) but DD should be needing hers. The thought of getting fined for her.... ohhhhhhh...

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 12 January 2012 - 22:56

You probably saw me there on Monday for several hours (actually I seem to be there most days lately!), although I wasn't waiting for the ID card! My DH spent a day coming and going doing his! He went in at 7.30 and got home at 4pm (but he came home a couple of times and went to several banks, and waited an hour before he finally processed it!) I still need to do mine but waiting for my visa to be changed. Going to be fun waiting with a baby!! Not exactly looking forward to it!

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 12 January 2012 - 22:32

I've read that UAE ID cards for Residents/Expats that they are needed by 31st May 2012 (from HR). Maybe he was an Emirati who was fined as I think they had to have theirs done by the end of 2011? Just to let you know (if you didn't already) that at EGHQ they only take 120 people (I think) per day for the UAE ID card processing, so you will need to be there at 7am ish as they fill up fast and it is a very long day if you are one of the last (have a good book or go for lunch/coffee while you wait)!

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 12 January 2012 - 21:44

My DH has had exactly the same problem with his! He's gone almost everywhere in Dubai to try and fix it and no one has ever seen or heard of this problem before! He tried restoring it several times but with no luck. The most bizzare thing is that the problem only occurs with a UAE sim card - Du and Etisalat, but with the NZ sim card it works perfectly fine! I think he did try restoring it using iTunes (not sure what he was doing before!) which was successful (I think but only works with Du which the phone was purhased through) The apple stores here are of no help (just to let you know) and that if you call apple directly (they aren't much help either!!) Must check with DH if his iPhone does work with Etisalat but he would rather not risk it as that's his main number! Haha... sorry I'm not actually much help here. But can't ask DH what happened with it as he's actually gone to bed early tonight (it's a first!) Hope you get it sorted soon

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 12 January 2012 - 21:20

I just checked it again and it has both mother's and father's nationalities. I must of missed seeing mine when I had a quick look earlier... my bad!

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 12 January 2012 - 19:41

The baby automatically gets the father's nationality on the birth certificate. For example, my baby's nationality on her birth certificate is Syrian (my DH's nationality which he entered the UAE) and then I had to apply for New Zealand Citizenship by Descent and then the NZ passport. So at present, she only holds the NZ passport from me although she is entitled to get the Syrian or Lebanese passport (we will decide later on which one!) I also hold a British passport but she is not entitled to that as I was born outside of the UK. There are certain criteria to nationalities which are good to know now, so like sandfly said, talk to your embassies. For example, if my DD has a baby born outside of NZ, that baby will not get NZ Citizenship, although if she has a baby in NZ they will be NZers (on the level of citizenship she has now). We will need to live in NZ for several years (can't remember how many... oops!) and then apply for a Citizenship Grant which will mean she is a 'fully pledged' NZer and her children born in NZ or not, will be NZers. I know this is all about NZ, but maybe other countries have similar rules, but am using this as an example over issues that may not affect your child but their children. Also in relation to Dubai, although my DH visa is on a Syrian passport, he is of course sponsoring DD on a NZ passport. We just needed to get the marriage certificate attested from his embassy to say that they agreed to the marriage when we applied for DD's visa (as we where from different countries as they put it!) Hope this helps a bit

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 02 January 2012 - 17:11

I got mine at Pottery Barn Kids. It's very nice and soft and washes well.

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 18 December 2011 - 22:59

I can highly recommend Dr Khan at American Hospital. I found him to be very knowledgeable and understanding. He took the time to explain everything in detail and answer any questions that we had (I suffer from a blood clotting disorder). He personally followed up the results with me by phone and email. I was most impressed with him and his mannerisms! Best of luck and I hope it's good news for your child. HTH

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 06 December 2011 - 21:10

Your nephew and nieces can only get tickets under wider eligiblilty (like others have already mentioned!). However, your sister needs to be on a confirmed ticket as well otherwise they will not issue a ticket for her children (ID50 not ID90). They will need proof of this. You also have to check which flight these are offered on (when it is busy, they may not offer these tickets). Hope this helps

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 06 December 2011 - 14:52

Sorry I'm not stoke victim, but I suffer from a blood clotting disorder. AH is in Oud Metha Road, Dubai. As your friend is taking warfarin, it is important that she has a regular dr to keep checking the levels (I was on heparin so don't know much about it really). All the best for your friend and hope she gets it all sorted soon.

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 05 December 2011 - 19:07

I recently saw Dr Khan at American Hospital. He's a haematologist/oncologist. I found him to be extremely knowledgeable and understanding. But more importantly, he took the time to explain in detail everything about my condition and any questions that we had (I haven't really found that with a dr here!) and even followed up the results personally with me (by phone and email). My husband and I were most impressed! But it could have been as he was still relevantly new (from Canada) and before he gets too busy! I hope this helps and your friend gets the help she needs.

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EW NEWBIE

Latest post on 01 December 2011 - 14:59

I just saw them in Starbucks in Uptown Mirdif the other day. I was looking at them for a Christmas present for my grandfather so I hope they still have some left!

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