SweetSugar123 | ExpatWoman.com
 

SweetSugar123

513
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 November 2012 - 13:37
If you have insurance with AXA, they do it all for you for free. Just for info as I didnt know this for ages (while having car insurance with them), as its not really widely advertised. They send someone to your work or home who takes your car away and brings it back registered with your new card. Not plugging AXA (!) but for me personally it is helpful every year and I wish I knew about it sooner.
513
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 November 2012 - 13:29
Sorry to be the bearer of bad news but if she exits to go to Oman she wont be able to get another UAE visit visa for 30 days. Wanted to take my parents to Musandam and couldn't do it for that very reason as they were of course returning (immediately) to Dubai with us to continue their holiday. It is a pity.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 06 November 2012 - 14:17
Ok so I have met an array of new hb's but Im just not sure who is best? I want someone isnt going to leave after a year.... And waste my time like my current one on the way out. I have a young guy 22 straight from SL new to Dxb with good english but lives i n Rashidya which is quite far away, but his brother is a driver in ar and can bring him, i have an old guy of nearly 50 whos english is not great, but only wants to go home once every 2 years and lives with his wife nearby in ar? I have a few more to see but just want to get it right.... Pls words of wisdom needed. If a sticker is what you're after specifically, I would go with the old guy who doesn't want to go home often and has his wife here. Younger guys, although with more energy (sometimes, we can hope!) seem to want more / change of career / have different aspirations eventually (read 1 year down the line!). Of course a generalisation but from your post the older guy seems more likely to stick around.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 06 November 2012 - 13:25
We went there last Xmas and I recall paying about 650 for the adults. Can't recall the kids prices. They have clearly changed their policy and pricing as we took our 3 year old and 8 year old. If it is any consolation, though, we were thoroughly disappointed. Food promised much but was pretty average. Cheese selection was covered in flies and cold meats sat uncovered all day. No champagne in sight only fizzy alternative. Worst thing was that I ate something bad ( could've been the horribly salty lobster tail) and was really unwell for the rest of the day. Not to be repeated for us. I hear the westin is much, much better and the zabeel is a gorgeous hotel with wonderful restaurants so sounds like a good bet too. Strange about the kids tho as surely its all about them?! Good luck. We have to decide between the Zabeel and the Westin. Havent been to either previously for Christmas brunch. Which one is more suited to kids?? It is all about them, too true!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 06 November 2012 - 13:13
I like angsana spa for that (the one in Emirates hills, not spinneys town centre).
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EW GURU
Latest post on 06 November 2012 - 13:09
I think that some people are just going to get cellulite regardless of sitting around or being very active. I am , quite honestly, a lazy slob and fat too....but I have zero cellulite. I have friends who are slim but with loads of cellulite. They exercise too. Go figure. Lucky you! ;) OP, massages work (by reducing some water retention so the appearance only looks better) but its short term :( You need to tone up with exercise (it wont happen overnight) and dry scrub allot (try daily) before your showers. I have noticed that helps a bit.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 06 November 2012 - 13:06
Yes, what I said was misleading. It is possible to live on that salary if you are just a couple, no children living in an appartment. But for a family to want to replicate the Swiss lifestyle here, pay school fees, go out, run cars, pay rent, dewa etc..... I think this amount we be eaten up very quickly and there woudn't be much room for savings Agreed, as I said, all depends on the chocie of lifestyle ;)
513
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EW GURU
Latest post on 06 November 2012 - 13:00
I just joined this forum as me and my husband most certainly will have to relocate to Dubai during next year. I read this thread as we want to be able to save money and my question is if you think we are able to do so with a total yearly salary of approx. 530.000 Dirham(that is the total with basic salary, housing- and car allowance). The company will also pay our health insurances and 1 yearly trip home. As we now live in Switzerland I assume that the daily costs will be less than here as food and services are extremly pricy in CH. No way - not if you want to live well ( and I am from Switzerland) That will not be enough I disagree, I think its possible on almost 44,200 per month. It will depend on your lifestyle. I think the biggest expenses are accommodation and school fees and if you dont have school going children as yet you dont have to go for big/luxurious accommodation either (like a villa, garden etc), so basically if its just you and DH, I think its possible. It is advisable to have some money for upfront costs though.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 06 November 2012 - 12:00
I love Marina, but I dont know so much about "good price". Maybe wait for their sale. I have bought a few furniture over the years at lots of shops including many mentioned here and the beds and cupboards from Marina are still looking as good as it did when I bought it many years ago. In fact should we ever move, I will ship my Marina furniture but sell the others.
513
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EW GURU
Latest post on 06 November 2012 - 11:55
I applied for her Emirates ID card and sent her for her medical on the same day. Chose 48 hours and got the result within 24 hours. Went to immigration the next morning and got the typing done and received the contracts all within 45 minutes. Took it home, had her sign it and returned it the next morning for the stamping in the passport. From start to finish, it was 3 days. The visa can be done the same day if you have your maid with you to sign the contract at immigration. Really quick and simple.
513
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EW GURU
Latest post on 06 November 2012 - 11:30
Mine was here recently (also 60) and these were just some of the things we did: Brunch at Emirates Palace, At the Top (Burj), Global Village, 2 day big bus pass (they dont have to get off at the beach or malls, they have a few new things to do like boat cruises and lots of historical things down in the bur dubai area), dinner at thiptara, the palace (got a great view of the fountains), dinner at beachcombers (great view of the burj), high tea at royal mirage, nails and spa treatment for mom, dhow cruise dinner, quite a bit of shopping too at all the big malls (but my mom loves shopping so that was ok!) Enjoy...
513
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EW GURU
Latest post on 06 November 2012 - 11:17
I got a machine as a wedding present a couple of weeks ago and I have become obsessed with it. (started using it yesterday as first day back from honeymoon). I am going to get the 7lbs in 7 days book and give it a try. I am already addicted to the green power juice. Who would have thought spinich, brocoli, cucumber etc could taste so delicious! Even if I don't loose weight, I don't care. Just think of all those wonderful natural vitamins and minerals getting into your system. Watch some Jason Vale videos on you tube or his website and join the 'Juice Revoloution'! I got the 7lbs in 7 days book as well as a "recipe" book for free with my juicer as its the recommended Jason Vale one :) p.s. I would recommend the App over the book as it has all the recipes as well but most importantly and helpful is that it calculates your shopping list for you so you will know exactly how many of each vegetable to buy for the amount of days you want to do the fast. So simple... edited by SweetSugar123 on 05/11/2012 Hi SweetSugar Can you please share which juicer you bought and what is the name of the app? Thanks Hi, it was the Phillips wide chute one, I *think* its called Avance. It was the only Juice master one at C4 so really easy to pick out. It was either 899 or 999dhs. The fruit can be put in whole which makes it go super fast and you get maximum juice. Hopefully any salesperson should be able to show you which one it is if you say that. For the App, simply search for the "lose 7lbs in 7 days" Jason Vale ipad app via the app store or google. Costs about $7. HTH.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 05 November 2012 - 12:35
Try Hays as well. They have a Division that specialises in Finance roles.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 05 November 2012 - 12:22
Saw a great one at IKEA.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 05 November 2012 - 12:21
Jebel Ali Village Nursery. You can drop off until 8.30/45am.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 05 November 2012 - 12:05
I got a machine as a wedding present a couple of weeks ago and I have become obsessed with it. (started using it yesterday as first day back from honeymoon). I am going to get the 7lbs in 7 days book and give it a try. I am already addicted to the green power juice. Who would have thought spinich, brocoli, cucumber etc could taste so delicious! Even if I don't loose weight, I don't care. Just think of all those wonderful natural vitamins and minerals getting into your system. Watch some Jason Vale videos on you tube or his website and join the 'Juice Revoloution'! I got the 7lbs in 7 days book as well as a "recipe" book for free with my juicer as its the recommended Jason Vale one :) p.s. I would recommend the App over the book as it has all the recipes as well but most importantly and helpful is that it calculates your shopping list for you so you will know exactly how many of each vegetable to buy for the amount of days you want to do the fast. So simple... <em>edited by SweetSugar123 on 05/11/2012</em>
513
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EW GURU
Latest post on 05 November 2012 - 11:59
I dont know anything but I have seen some very good results from people who have gone for surgeries at Cosmesurge. Apparently they have some of the best surgeons around.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 05 November 2012 - 11:55
TDB, I have always worked however I had about 5 months maternity leave with both pregnancies. I have struggled with this too, especially the guilt but you may find you probably have more reason to work after no.2 comes along. Kids are expensive and I love to spend time with mine BUT I would rather be in a position to be able to provide for them than spend time at home with them and worry about finances. I also enjoy having my "own thing". They are 2 and 5 now and I am so proud how they have turned out. We have a lovely maid that joined us when DD was 1 and she loves them both to bits. Just try and make the most of your situation. You of course need to juggle more and its all about priorities but its manageable. Enjoy your time you have with them, remember its about quality time spent, not quantity (not necessarily being home all day). Find an excellent helper and be glad if your child is happy with them. Hope it all goes well.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 05 November 2012 - 11:44
Insurance companies offer different packages, so it depends on your package. AXA and BUPA offered us that but it does not offer that option in all their packages. You would need to check with the insurance company. Its so much easier dealing with a broker as they will do all the work for you and just present the best options to you based on what you are looking for. Brokers gets their fees from the companies so it costs you the same as going direct. I have used the same broker for the past 8 years (both personal and at work), a very good option.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 05 November 2012 - 10:53
I think it depends on what you came here for, to save or to enjoy the lifestyle. If you can do both, great for you! Its an expensive place though and things really add up faster than you think so if/when you can save do it but if you cannot, dont beat yourself up about it as long as you hopefully have a long term plan. We do manage to save 50-60% of our combined salary but some months are harder than others especially when you need to factor in holidays, when cheques like rent, school fees are cashed etc. Annual bonuses are saved 100% though. While we are managing to save (although the % varies some months), we will stay.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 05 November 2012 - 10:48
I know they had one this year Jan as I bought new sofas just before Christmas last year and was kicking myself when I saw it discounted a few weeks later...aarhghh..
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EW GURU
Latest post on 05 November 2012 - 10:46
DR makes a good point, you want someone taking care of it all on the day for you. I had a planner for my wedding and thought it was worth it even just for that reason. If you plan to have it in a hotel, yes they have planners but they are not exactly professional wedding planners by experience or qualifications. Also, hotels are expensive so that option may not suit you/your budget. I know some planners do consultations with you to set you up/give you ideas etc and you can just use them for that, if you decide to go ahead and hire them, the consultation is free. I know someone who may assist with smaller scale events. If you leave your email, happy to pass it on. If you decide to do it by yourself, it is very doable and I am sure you will have fun with the planning process. Congrats and good luck.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 05 November 2012 - 10:37
Hi, I have. It's mostly water weight at the beginning (if you do a 3 day one) but if you do a 7 or even 14 day one, you will notice the difference in weight. I have the ipad app and bought the recommended juicer at C4. Its well worth it and you feel sooo much better after the 3rd day. The first 2 days I suffered from very bad headaches. Its good to do once every few months for both detox and weightloss (which is really inevitable after the initial toxins are flushed out). Would recommend!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 21 October 2012 - 10:47
At 4.30pm, I think it still is...sorry. We were out on a terrace for dinner last night and it was really nice and comfortable but that was almost 10pm!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 21 October 2012 - 10:44
ACE in festival city has the biggest selection I have seen so far....rows and rows of it. Really nice ones too.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 21 October 2012 - 10:41
Hi, I did this recently for my parents and I did not show any identification etc. I have not been asked previous times either. Its really simple and straightforward. I always go to jebel ali immigration centre and have never faced any problems. I think the cost was approx 1200 per person....
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EW GURU
Latest post on 21 October 2012 - 10:40
Hi, I did this recently for my parents and I did not show any identification etc. I have not been asked previous times either. Its really simple and straightforward. I always go to jebel ali immigration centre and have never faced any problems. I think the cost was approx 1200 per person....
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 October 2012 - 19:19
Jane Norman has some really pretty ones. Also try Wallis and most of the designers at Debenhams. I personally like Coast and Oasis.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 October 2012 - 17:20
My parents recently did the big bus tour and really enjoyed it. I bought a 48 hour ticket so they split it between the beach/mall tour on one day and the old dubai sites the next. I also took them for high tea (at al qasr and the ritz), booked them for spa treatments and we did some weekends away. Spread it out though, one day out, one or even two days to rest if they are coming for a long time.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 October 2012 - 16:59
Jumeirah Beach Hotel! Enjoy buffet lunch at Beachcombers, that also has a play area for the little ones. If you are going on Saturday you can use the Entertainer vouchers, it is only not valid on a Friday (Brunch).
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 October 2012 - 16:56
Hmmm, totally agree with you DB. Very confused.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 October 2012 - 16:51
We stayed at the Eton hotel in July and it was really good and location wise, second to none. It is one street away from the Night Market and close enough to the Ladies Market as well. You can take a quick taxi ride but we walked back to the hotel as well. And of course, it is just down the famous Nathan road as well....We also took the kids to Disney and they had a fantastic time. DS is 2 and DD 4....HK is great and has sooo many things to do. Enjoy!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 08 October 2012 - 16:48
I too had a great experience the other day. This guy just came just to fix the shower head spring and ended up doing all the things we (read DH) have not gotten around to for more than one year! A jack of all trades and very helpful. Reasonably priced too. His number is 0566059246. Hope its helpful as I know how frustrating it can be to get things done here, not only reliably but properly and with someone who understands what you want.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 28 August 2012 - 11:36
My DD had already dropped her last nap by the age of 3. His bedtime appears to be too late. Try to align his and DS2's routines. If he is getting cranky by 5pm without a nap, that is fine, so after dinner start winding down and have him down for bedtime at 7.30pm latest. He will do a straight 12 hour sleep then. If he is very cranky and his body clearly still needs a daytime nap, maybe put him down immediately after he gets home from nursery but just for 1 hour. I do think though if you bring bedtime forward he may be just fine, their bodies adapst easily.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 28 August 2012 - 11:25
The more you feed the more milk you will produce, that was true for me. Another thing that worked wonders for me was ginger beer, I was amazed!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 28 August 2012 - 11:10
So my maid seems to be forgetting things more and more each day. They not small things though. Like this morning, before leaving for work, I told her to call me when my folks are ready to leave the house to go shopping and I would decide at that time if DD and DS should go with as DS was not too great when I left. Just wanted to get them out of the house a bit to play etc. Just called now and my folks are already at the mall, she mentioned nothing to them, kids are bored at home. I asked her why she did not call me and she goes silent for a while and says "I forgot mam". This is ofcourse just one example. I know everyone forgets things but she does so often, she's only 34 and I have tried everything in the book to help her including books to write things down, alerts on phones which I supplied etc. She's a sweet soul, so I am genuinely wondering if there is something wrong with her (medically), if she just has too much on her plate (which would also be strange as her workload has decreased while with us over the past 4 years).....really not sure. I dont want to let her go after almost 4 years with us but all these things are adding up to be a major source of frustration for me. Anyone have some sound advice?? <em>edited by SweetSugar123 on 28/08/2012</em>
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EW GURU
Latest post on 27 August 2012 - 16:45
This is helpful. Thanks so much for taking the time to share Di. I will look into that option for sure....
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EW GURU
Latest post on 27 August 2012 - 16:35
Thanks ladies... :) Simples, I actually have tried pillows before (3 different ones) and it didnt feel right or at least it was quite "different". DH loves his pillow though. The guy at the showroom says the ones I tried, which we bought at pharmacies, are not suitable for me and it could also be due to using the pillows with a bad mattress. Not sure...I did like the mattress today but then I also have back ache currently so all round its hard to be objective while in pain. If only they gave a trial period! Apparently its 90 days in the U.S.! I wish....and am so confused :( Did it take a while to "wear in" or was it comfortable from the beginning? Thanks!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 27 August 2012 - 14:12
The gift is a good idea and about all I did. My DD was the same age as yours when DS was born. I also tried to include her allot, like "helping" mommy by fetching things for the baby. Also try to spend as much time as you can with her after DS comes home, which is not too difficult as they tend to sleep allot during the first few weeks. I felt it was just important to keep her feeling included and she was therefore more proud than jealous of her baby brother. Good luck!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 27 August 2012 - 14:07
I have had BUPA, Axa and Daman and found them all to be good. We use a guy called Anand (0506513322) from future insurance brokers. Dont know the company well but know him and have always moved with him as a client as he is honest and reliable.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 27 August 2012 - 11:31
suze63 replied : Actually I think Bubblicious is one of the best for kids entertainment! Mina a Salam is also a good one (that's probably the one we go to most). I'd be happy with either of those to take guests to. That's interesting suze63, I've never seen the kids area at either of those brunches but have just looked on Time Out - where is the petting zoo and bouncy castle?! Also, has anyone been to Ibn Battuta? What sort of food is on offer (none of the reviews seem to mention that but they do rave about the kid's entertainment). Thanks both :) The ibn battuta one is really good, but without the price tag of Al Qasr etc. They have a huge bouncy castle, a big screen for movies, access to the kids club which is beside the restaurant and the petting zoo. My kids loved it and DH loved the dessert room, yes room, you read right! :)
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EW GURU
Latest post on 27 August 2012 - 11:27
Thanks for your suggestions. Beachcombers would be good but just wondering if JB Hotel have changed their policy, as they used to stop people using their outside restaurants during the day, saying they were for residents only. I think we will go to JB Hotel and if we can't use Beachcombers will settle for the lobby area. Amelia, I have not had a problem before, sometimes with or without a reservation. If you get stopped just say you are going to beachcombers. The guards stopping you are also not always there as you exit the main lobby area, so its hit and miss. Hope you get to go to beachcombers, its so lovely but it always makes me wish I was on holiday sunning myself on the beach :(
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EW GURU
Latest post on 27 August 2012 - 08:02
Beachcombers in jumeriah beach hotel serves tea etc. you wont know it as they are so famous for their buffets but I went there a few times and ordered a tea and snacks off the menu. Its hot now so the balcony may be out but if you can get a window table you should still have a perfect view of the burj...
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EW GURU
Latest post on 27 August 2012 - 07:58
We used saniservice too, we had around the same quote. They are good. I must admit, I didnt notice a major difference at first, especially in terms of smell, but it became more noticeable as time went by and the kids are not as sick as they used to be. There is definitely a huge difference since the cleaning.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 27 August 2012 - 07:55
My DS dropped his afternoon nap (3-4pm) at about 18 months. He still takes his 10-12 morning nap....he is now 2.5 years. There was a time when he would also just play for a while or play during the entire 2 hours! It depends on what you want to do. If he still seems like he needs a nap during the day, keep putting him down and his body will adjust again. If you want to cut it out, you can just stop altogether and follow the signs as to days he seems tired and only out him down then.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 27 August 2012 - 07:50
2 is a good age to start. I did the same with my two. It gives them confidence and prepares them well for the school and it has the added benefit where they can speak and tell you how things are going. I tried slightly younger with my eldest and it didnt work so I took her out and sent her back at 2. I think it may be more difficult (take slightly longer) to adjust at 3,4 etc. Every child is different of course, but thats worked for us.
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EW GURU
Latest post on 27 August 2012 - 07:46
As difficult as it is, I do just tend to ignore. You get all sorts, it does seem, more so in Dubai though! But analysing it will just depress you further, so try to focus on the positives and dont have any expectations (like expecting a thank you when opening the door etc. although to us it seems like the most obvious, normal thing to do) because with expectations will only come great dissapointments when those expectations are not met. Chin up!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 27 August 2012 - 07:41
Apricot, can you please let me know which Simmons you bought/recommend? We have "shortlisted" the king coil and simmons but have yet to decide and I have to do so soon as my back is killing me :( We like the anniversary model and the black model. It is so expensive but I feel it will be worthwhile but would love to hear feedback from someone who has and had one before. TIA!
513
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EW GURU
Latest post on 25 August 2012 - 22:40
Thanks October and Noddy, very helpful info! We are quite happy to invest but buying a mattress is such a gamble and buying the most expensive one is just not a guarantee, so I am really hoping we will make the right choice. We have been 3 weeks in total into our new one and its killing us, literally! I just want to get rid and start over! Hope we are more lucky this time!
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EW GURU
Latest post on 25 August 2012 - 10:32
October, what did you eventually settle on? We are now in the same boat and need to get a matress ASAP...backache very morning is no fun! :( Also, where is the king coil showroom? I cant find the info on their site... TIA!