ukone | ExpatWoman.com
 

ukone

ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 February 2012 - 13:21
I would say it's not a holiday, but it's what keeps me sane and rejuvenated for another year away from the family that I love back home. I love just vegging out on the sofa with my sisters and watching Eastenders or Come Dine with Me. I love that after a few days, my little niece or nephew recognise me and come running into my arms. I love re-discovering London with my kids as tourists. I love starting off where I left off last summer on nights out with my friends (appreciate the consistency of friendship you get back home). I love shopping at Tesco and marvelling at the variety of food and produce. I love seeing my kids play with their cousins and feel like they are family. And I love coming back ''home'' realising how much Dubai has come to mean home for me now, and how blessed I am to be able to live here. All the things I love about going home too :) <em>edited by ukone on 29/02/2012</em>
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 November 2011 - 08:24
We have friends visiting this weekend and just trying organize ..... have any mums heard of school closures this week or next week for New Year and National Day ?
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 October 2011 - 09:30
Thanks for all the replies, looking at the resorts, has anybody been in November and can comment on the weather and recommend any hotels and Bubblylove looking at Pokhara can you see the mountains from the town ? also anybody been to Nagarkot ? edited by ukone on 17/10/2011 <em>edited by ukone on 17/10/2011</em>
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 October 2011 - 18:50
Sounds about right... we could have had a lie in !!! School also closed tomorrow
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 October 2011 - 18:30
My children are very aware of how 'lucky' they are (I constantly remind them!!), living in this country you could so easily end up with the brat pack. I think its good to set boundaries and if they break them then they need to be punished. By that I mean, grounded, loss of allowance etc. Both mine get an allowance monthly and have to manage their money, put credit on their phones etc, so if they lose some its a big deal!! Going out, freedom, money are all privileges, if they toe the line they get the life they want, there does have to be a little give and take from both sides though, occasional earning it back is allowed, my son thinks I'm the worst parent on our community and far too strict but if he is polite, courteous and helpful thats all I want
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 October 2011 - 13:25
Which border did you cross, my kids and I did several times before our sponsorship was sorted and never had a problem once so I wouldn't worry too much, it is normal to worry they won't let you back in, just smile and pass through
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 October 2011 - 13:11
apparently kids sent home as per civil defence and KDHA, no fumes within the green community but you can smell it when you get to the school. The fire burnt long into the night and is still smoldering now.
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 October 2011 - 00:18
Not unhappy here, the question was just what I missed ..... one thing I've learnt about living here - take nothing for granted, then its a real treat when you get it or see it, as for the curry can't beat a proper takeaway curry, but each to their own
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 October 2011 - 08:38
The rain, cold frosty mornings, friends and family and a good curry
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 October 2011 - 08:24
I went for the cheaper curve as just wanted for BBM and social networking, its fab and never lets me down, I just pay the 49 dirhams a month (no internet outside of home apart from social sites) you can have the 99 dirhams which my son has and then has access to the web. BBM is also not free in the UK, I believe its approx 30 dirhams a month to connect - not sure about other countries. Also agree that whatsapp is a bit hit and miss. <em>edited by ukone on 05/10/2011</em>
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 September 2011 - 08:50
Drive out into the desert once the weather cools down, mine love to run mad in the sand
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 September 2011 - 08:42
I would recommend putting them in the age appropriate year group for this country/school they will attend, they will soon catch up. I put one of mine in the right year group for UK schooling and she is now the oldest in the year, with some children 14 months younger than her. Once they are in a year group Dubai KDHA will not allow them to move !
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 September 2011 - 18:51
Thanks thats great, can't make the meeting any updates would be gratefully received
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 September 2011 - 14:40
Hi, we also live on GC and didn't receive information, please can anyone tell me the website and what the meeting is regarding, thanks
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 September 2011 - 09:18
Looking for an update ladies, is this now in force ?
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 September 2011 - 12:47
We brought our cat and two dogs from the UK last year, used Petair, was a little expensive but service was amazing, I got their passports and jabs done then over to Bob at Petair, they collected them from the house, kept them in their kennels for a couple of days, delivered them to the airport (I even had a text telling me they checked in, boarded etc and when they landed !!) they then delivered them to the house - they used Dubai Kennel and Cattery this end.
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 September 2011 - 13:49
Thanks for some great ideas, she is into dancing, swimming and girlie make-up etc. Can anyone recommend a spa type place for a mini manicure etc, or somebody that comes to the house which could be fun
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 September 2011 - 19:48
Got 2 children in GCS, they were at a UK school then a british school over here, did also look at DBS to keep with british education but couldn't get my 10 year old in so can't comment, put them in GCS and was going to move them this year, they both refused to move, are very happy at GCS. They both say the work is hard.... but thats no bad thing !! Did lots of research about IB and UK schools happy to take both my kids back as are colleges. I think the main factor is we live on Green Community and they like being close to school (did the horrific 40 min each way trip for a while in another UAE state) and also lots of friends live on the community so always someone close by to play with. Would recommend you sort out school place first then choose where to live.
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 September 2011 - 16:29
We bank with ADCB, no issues, very helpful, husband was taken to them by previous employer - bonus point you earn touchpoints on all spends and they can be converted to skywards miles - which whole family used to upgrade to business with !!
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 September 2011 - 16:08
Depends on the school and their cut off dates - GCS works from 1st Jan to 31st Dec - so for example to be in grade 5 they have to be 10 before the end of December - although you will find various ages within the year group - depending on which country they have come from.
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 September 2011 - 12:01
Dubaiden - didn't see this one just replied on your other post - contact the school again as they have been really busy with hundreds of new kids - I have a child in G5 and I think they have a little space, not sure about the other years, good luck
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 September 2011 - 11:58
My husband also works in AD thats why we chose GC, its a straight run, from here. Not sure about time to Gems as never leave the community at that time of day and if I do I leave via the back exit. GCS have expanded a huge amount this year and I believe there are wait lists for some of the classes - I think they have around 200 new children - great for the kids - nightmare dropping and collecting !! It was chaos first couple of days so I would drop them another email.
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 September 2011 - 08:43
Hi Green Community has a mix of most nationalities, we are from the UK and have several british friends here, and several from around the world. The only school I can tell you about is Greenfields Community School. It follows the IB but again there is a really good mix of nationalities, We are very happy with it, my kids went to a British school in UAE first but we moved them to GCS and they are both very happy. The school has grown this year and is now fully operational - with a few teething problems - but this is the UAE !! If you need any further advice please ask
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 September 2011 - 14:15
Just looking at this myself, can I ask if you spend more than 5,000 is the cap still 4,000 miles or do the miles keep going up in line with your spend ?
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 July 2011 - 11:35
Used to live in Al Ain, beautiful place for a weekend away, yes it is hotter - can be in the 50's at this time of year but is a nicer heat as there is no humidity like Dubai, places to stay Rotana as mentioned, Hilton, Intercon (changed names now) and of course Jebel Hafeet which is at the top of the mountain - my personal favourite and the childrens. You do have the zoo and Hili fun city but a little hot at this time of year, although the zoo is open till midnight I think
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 July 2011 - 08:42
as in the flame under it? yes to keep the oil hot, thanks cleopatra will have a look
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 July 2011 - 08:34
I wanted it for a fondue - any suggestions
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 July 2011 - 07:23
Hi does anyone know where I can buy this, tried Ace they didnt have any ?
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 July 2011 - 07:16
thanks for the replies, I like the fact that if I use the UAE one I avoid speeding tickets, having paid so many over the years !!! Just one point I lost my uk licence so applied on line for a new one and was sent here via my postal redirection. I posted a while back on the excess insurance and a lady gave me a link to annual insurance covering the excess, thanks for this as when I contacted them they have reduced the premium from 50 to 38 pounds.
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 June 2011 - 11:41
has the 2nd chance option closed now.... can't find a way to apply on the site
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 26 June 2011 - 08:29
I used the 4 hour service earlier this year - make sure you phone for an appointment, when on the phone they ask for a UK address, if you ask they will send the forms to the address so they are waiting for you, made it much easier all round - got the passports back in 3 hours which was a bonus !!
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 June 2011 - 08:38
Mine too !!! then they get all the attitude !!! Try Jumeirah Music Centre, they do voice lessons - not sure if anything over the summer, how old is she ? she maybe able to get a job with the holiday clubs, they pay or certify the hours if your child is doing DofE
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 June 2011 - 08:42
Agree Europcar do it, but would only deliver to the address on my UK drivers license !!! as house was rented out couldn't do that, tried several others (in the south) couldn't get anyone
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 June 2011 - 08:29
this happened to me in Jan, husband visa cancelled, we left the country at 32 days to fly to the Uk, when you get to passport control they call someone over and take you aside to a little room, after much discussion they let me leave - had to pay a fine (seemed quite a lot but was flying home for a funeral so just paid it and also thought I'd miss the flight !!) wasn't too much hassle tho, just allow extra time !! Came back 1 week later and we had no problems, not even questioned, just stamped us with a visitor visa, we then got our new residency within the month. I would try and do a border run NOW, every day costs more money - at least then you will have no probs at the airport.
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 June 2011 - 18:59
Thanks spearssk, been to party world got a fab wig .... for anyone else interested its a good shop, loads of party bits, costumes etc
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 June 2011 - 13:54
thanks party world is closest to me can you tell me where it is once in motor city - thanks <em>edited by ukone on 15/06/2011</em>
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 June 2011 - 19:36
It does make them more rounded individuals (my person experience) has changed my son so much he is even working at school and looking forward to uni !!! Some children find the whole project work hard, mine thrive on it, it really gives a focus, having spoken to a couple of UK uni's they are very pro the IB - please feel free to contact me if you want to know anything further - happy to help, when are you moving ? And yes the roundabout does get easier !!! takes a while tho (let me know when you have the email add so I can take off) <em>edited by ukone on 15/06/2011</em>
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 June 2011 - 19:19
Is there something I should know ?
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 June 2011 - 16:56
Yes I believe its non refundable, My children are in G4 and G9 and we are overall very pleased with it, yes like all schools in the middle east there are issues, that you have to accept. We moved here from another ME state (and that school to had its issues). I also looked at british schools, narrowed it down and took the kids to visit - both liked Greenfields over the other schools, they both commented that the work is harder (Many say IB is an easy option - but I think mine having done both UK and IB would disagree !!) They spend a lot of time in the primary working on assesments and encouraging the children to complete themselves, hurrah I hear you say !! Not sure if you live on GC ? but for my two that was the pull - they have many friends on the community who then in turn introduced them to kids from all over the place. The school has a village school feel to it, it is a growing school and I believe a huge amount of new children are starting in Sept, this we hope may bring more into MYP which is at the moment a small school and will benefit from the growth. If you need any further info - just ask, and don't worry about the roundabout Buy me a pony - You do get used it it !!!
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 June 2011 - 16:09
i just want to add that not all breeders are dodgy. we bought our puppy from a breeder in AR and they are the most amazing people. the puppies are well cared for, all shots done by the time we picked him up, all papers ready and legit and the family was genuinely 'sad' to see the puppy go (but very happy that he was going to be taken care of properly by us). so there are some good breeders out there too. Lol...they are by definition "dodgy" if selling animals in the UAE. Illegal unless they are a registered pet store. It's good to hear your feeling is that they genuinely care about their animals. Whether they are "good" breeders is a whole other looooooong thread though. ;) I appreciate this is a very difficult subject, If you can only buy from a registered pet store (who I believe, please correct me if Im wrong) are not the best choice, how else can you get a new puppy here .... would appreciate any comments or help as new to all this, would also love to know the breed of the dog and if it was recent dikane. One other point why wouldn't good breeders breed here ?
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 June 2011 - 13:18
This broke my heart to read .... but yes should be posted - perhaps if more people read a post like this before getting a dog they would think of the huge commitment it is - I do not feel blackmailed by it as I am one of those who wants a puppy, loves their animals and would give every thing I had to have my dog who passed away last month back. This should be posted at all rescue centre doors.
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 14 June 2011 - 09:33
Mine was cancelled back in Jan when my husband changed jobs, you get 30 days after cancellation to leave the country or do a border run - unfortunately we were 32 days when we flew out on vacation, wasn't a huge problem just got pulled aside at immigration and had to pay a fine before they let us leave, came back in on a visit visa then applied for new residency
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 June 2011 - 18:47
I also am looking for a puppy, large breed dog (we imported both our dogs with us when we moved here 18 months ago, sadly one of our dogs passed away last month. I fully appreciate K9 friends and what they do, unfortunately I have also heard some horror stories from various friends living here with regard to rescue dogs) I have a young family and do know the type of breed I want, we are very dedicated to our animals, hence bringing dogs and cats with us. I appreciate everybody has their own opinion but fully understand where you are coming from, given that it appears in this country no breeder can be trusted (I wish I could find one who could !!! we will give a loving home to our new pet) your only option seems to be importing - we are going to look when we return home this summer and take it from there.
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 June 2011 - 13:53
Hi, I have 2 children at GCS and we have had to pay a 4000 (2000 each) aed deposit for next year which does come off the first terms fees. Most of the schools in Dubai ask for the fees before the end of the previous term but I know a lot of people (including me) don't pay them until the start of the new term, I guess it depends what year your child is, what the waiting lists are like etc.
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 June 2011 - 15:41
This post was such a good reminder .... have just given my gardener a coke and he was so grateful, a little kindness goes a long way, I for one would not want to be outside working in this heat, doing the school run was hard enough !!
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 June 2011 - 20:40
Thanks for all the comments, everybody seems as fed up as me .... the man at etislat is even fed up with me !!! one further question - My husband tells me that you can only get Abu Dhabi sport on etislat .... does anybody have any ideas !!! or does anybody have both systems ..... a desperate lady who just wants to watch a bit of TV !!!
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 June 2011 - 18:20
Thanks ladies ..... so is OSN better ? the reason we had to have !!! elife is for my husband to watch the football, any other suggestions - will switch if I can offer him an alternative -
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 June 2011 - 16:13
Many thanks, will contact them, I presume that you don't then take out the excess with car hire ?
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 May 2011 - 18:09
just saw your post and sitting here laughing as my son is upstairs watching the match, lots of shouting !!!! lets hope they win ..... are you guys from Reading
ukone
56
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 May 2011 - 17:55
Hi a while since you posted but I've just read your post. We brought 2 dogs from the Uk last year, both very similiar to your story, used to being free, no leads etc. Both adapted really well to living in this country, If you drive out of town there is always places they can run free, my dogs have had no problem adapting to the heat, one of which sadly passed away last week but was a maremma - used to being in the mountains in italy and never showed any signs of heat problems over the last year. I think its harder for us than the animals as we have to adapt - getting up early to walk etc.
 
 
Top 5 UK curriculum online schools for expat families and kids abroad

Top 5 Online Schools For Expat Families in the Middle East

How expats in Germany can get German pension refund

Bye Bye Germany - Hello German Pension Refund?

UAE Emirati Lawyer Awatif Khouri in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Meet the Emirati Woman Breaking Grounds in UAE Law: Awatif Khouri

Mashreq NEO NXT Account | Why Kids and Teens Need Financial Education

Why Teens Need Real-World Financial Education?

International university transition tips

How to Make the Transition to University Life Easier

How to apply for Germany VBL Pension Refund as an expatriate | Germany Pension Refund

Bye Bye German Public Service Job - Hello VBL Pension Refund

Tourist SIM cards in Dubai guide

Tourist SIM Cards in Dubai: Where to Get One and Package Prices

World's most expensive cities to live in 2024

These Are the World's Most Expensive Cities To Live in 2024

Dubai ranked as one of the best cities to work in 2024

Dubai Ranked Among Top 5 Cities in the World to Work In

What are the signs that your online date is a fraud

8 Warning Signs Your Online Date is a Scammer

10 Expat Experiences You Should Check Off Before Repatriation

10 Expat Experiences You Should Check Off Before Leaving For Good

Best and Worst Countries to Get Started Abroad for New Expats

Best and Worst Countries for New Expats to Get Started Abroad

Under the Mango Tree by Robyn Fok | Expat Books

Expat Author Robyn Fok's 'Under the Mango Tree' Deals With Pet Grief & Loss

Expat Wife, Happy Life: Interview With Expat Author Florence Reisch

(Images: Supplied)

Expat Interview: Meet Florence Reisch, Author of 'Expat Wife, Happy Life!'

Remembering Queen Elizabeth II: A Tribute by UAE Expats

Remembering an Extraordinary Woman: A Tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

10 reasons why expat women love the UAE

10 Reasons Why the UAE is a Popular Choice for Expat Women

6 Common Fears of Moving Abroad By Yourself and How to Overcome Them

Moving to the UAE Alone: 6 Common Fears and How to Overcome Them

Ultimate Babyshop Baby and Toddler Travel Packing List

These Baby Travel Essentials Are Must-Haves For Your Next Family Getaway

Requirements to apply for a UAE Golden Visa

How Do I Obtain a UAE Golden Visa? Requirements, Eligibility, and Process Explained

5 Tip for Expats to Survive Long-Distance Relationships

5 Tip for Expats to Survive Long-Distance Relationships

Opening a bank account in the UAE

A Newcomer to the UAE? What to Consider When Choosing a Bank for Opening an Account

Culture shock in the United Arab Emirates for expats

14 Ways You Will Experience Culture Shock in the UAE

Why you shouldn't upload your resume on your LinkedIn profile

5 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Upload a Resume to Your LinkedIn Profile

10 Secrets to Happiness as an Expat

10 Secrets to Finding Happiness as an Expat

4 Ways to Network as an Expat

4 Ways to Network as an Expat

8 Expat Problems That Are Just Too Real

8 Expat Problems That Are Just Too Real

How to Make New Friends in a Foreign Country

How to Make New Friends in a Foreign Country

Top 10 Countries with the Best Quality of Life

Top 10 Countries with the Best Quality of Life

The best European cities for new expats

Pictured: Prague

The Best Cities in Europe for Expat Arrivals

House in Husavik

10 Amazing Things To Do In Iceland

How to Make Your Own Life as an Expat and Why It’s Important

How to Make Your Own Life as an Expat and Why It’s Important

The Labriz eforea spa location

Why Seychelles is One of the Best Holiday Destinations

The Real Expat: Chasing Your Dreams to Find Your True Purpose

The Real Expat: Chasing Your Dreams to Find Your True Purpose