verdeque | ExpatWoman.com
 

verdeque

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Latest post on 12 December 2013 - 09:10
So? What happened? Sorry I've not been on, been a very frustrating few days on this. Tried to call Alan (from Birchy, thank you!) but his phone's been switched off. Also tried another contact that my maid knows, also no answer. Will continue to try the embassy by my mother in law is in town so a bit tricky. Meanwhile, the maid has been told that she cannot leave the house if she doesn't agree to stay another two months, until the new hire comes. I don't believe that the madam will actually let her go in two months, but until I get a hold of someone who can rock up to her place and remove her, there's not much I can do. She said they will pay her overstay fines, but I think they will coerce her into signing another contract, as they've done in the past. She just told me yesterday that she agreed to the two months, and it really had me down all day. It's so frustrating being in a place where my hands are tied. The woman told her that she can't leave, that she will put pictures of her all over the Dubai airport, that she will ban her, lies lies lies but she doesn't get to leave the house or talk on the phone so she believes it. Heavy sigh. The one thing that gets me down more than anything, especially into my middle age years, is unkindness of any sort, towards people and animals. Will keep you all posted and thank so much for the advice and concern.
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Latest post on 09 December 2013 - 10:09
THANK YOU FOR CARING VERDEQUE. The other posters responses are exactly why human rights of maids can be abused and will stay abused in this country. Yeah, slip her the number of her embassy and let's just shush and not get involved, the maid is probably exaggerating anyway. Unfortunately I don't know a lawyer. Hope someone else does. I think you are being a little unfair. Apart from one of the responses, no-one has suggested that the maid in question is lying or exaggerating. It is just that in this country, things can and do go terribly wrong even with the best of intentions. So, I and others have suggested ways in which the maid can be helped properly, by her own people, who do this on a daily basis and are experienced. It is not a matter of not wanting to get involved but rather a matter of not jeopardising your family and your career/position here while helping someone - especially if you are going up against a local family. You are not experienced in "extracting maids" and the Philippines consulate is - so why not let the professionals handle the situation swiftly and quietly. I didn't take your post in that vein, and actually have been calling POLO (office of labor for Philippines) and the Consulate all morning, no answer. Before I go down there, which I'd really prefer not to do, I was hoping to reach them, or even better, a lawyer who can advise. And as I said, I'd love to help her with the next family, wrt a new visa, so I'm looking for steps to getting her new visa sorted with the least amount of hassle. I keep hearing mixed stories about best way to do it, know she won't have a NOC in hand. Thank you, really, for your advice. I want to just help as quickly as possible and get on with the holidays and visiting family, so any info to this end is appreciated. :)
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Latest post on 09 December 2013 - 10:00
THANK YOU FOR CARING VERDEQUE. The other posters responses are exactly why human rights of maids can be abused and will stay abused in this country. Yeah, slip her the number of her embassy and let's just shush and not get involved, the maid is probably exaggerating anyway. Unfortunately I don't know a lawyer. Hope someone else does. Thank you for your kind words. Her employers are known in Dubai to be quite infamous so it's no surprise she's in this situation, as they've burned many people, without going into details. I do hope someone has a few contacts for me!
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Latest post on 09 December 2013 - 09:44
Wow, you are all giving me a bit of a heart attack! I'm not new to Dubai so know that I need to be cautious in this matter, and am trying to be. And I really do appreciate your concern. I'm friends with a few women who've lived through horror stories with the 'system' here, so I've no intention of stirring up any trouble. I know that POLO can help and I'm also trying to reach them. BUT, I will get involved and help if I can. I won't be silly about how I go about this and expose myself in any way, but I can't simply ignore her situation. And I do know that it is not exaggeration, as her niece works for my friend, who spent a few months getting her out of the same house. But she wasn't there as long, so the madam let her go. I know we all get very jaded listening to the sob stories, which are unending, but it really is one of those cases that I know to be truly bad for her. My friend also knows her, and she really is a lovely lady, who is simply trying to get out from her very bad situation and needing a hand. So, anyone know a lawyer I can contact? Or anyone had experience in this?
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Latest post on 29 June 2013 - 09:06
Hi- sorry, not been on here. Yes, the Sri Lankan maid is available immediately and is great. you can pm me at [email protected] and I will send you her details.
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Latest post on 21 June 2013 - 12:21
My maid, who is great and extremely trustworthy, has a sister who is looking for a job immediately, as a maid. She works for a family now, who is moving, and she's very sweet, conscientious, and honest. Let me know if you'd like contact details and I can give you more info.
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Latest post on 21 June 2013 - 12:18
My maid is required to work weekends. In fact, those are her busiest days. Sunday is the massive cleaning day. Mondays are delivery days. Thursday are groceries. Does your maid get any days off?
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Latest post on 21 June 2013 - 12:04
We need a maid mostly on weekends and holidays, so they are never off in our house. Are you saying you don't give your maid any days off? Really? You know that the chances of your maid retaliating against you or your family are significant if you're not treating her with kindness and respect. She's a human being, not a slave, and deserves a day off.
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Latest post on 21 June 2013 - 11:57
Ok, so I've not gotten any response re a shipping/cargo co. Surely one of you has an Indian maid, or perhaps knows an Indian that you might be able to simply ask how they ship goods back home? Thank you!
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Latest post on 11 June 2013 - 10:16
Assuming I get some good feedback I'll come back to you, ok?
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Latest post on 11 June 2013 - 10:15
I'm also from California, though not for many years! Having moved here a year ago, I can't stress enough that there's no point in trying to zero in on areas till you've gotten here. You need to get a sense of what the school drives will be like (it's easy to say you don't mind traffic/driving, but you might once you're here), and what amenities you will want. Personally, I would never consider an area with no pool nearby. You will take your boys to the pool a lot, it's just that hot and humid here. Also, I thought before we arrived we'd like Arabian Ranches. Once we came for a look we liked the Meadows/Springs area. Now that we've been here a year, we plan to move, and are considering Umm Seqiuem/Jumeirah mostly, but that's because all of our kids' friends live in that area and it's just easier to be near their school and friends. We are hesitant about the move, cos we like the quality of life we have here. Great community. But I think we'll end up on a compound, which I think you should consider. The nice thing about those areas is that you are near everything, and although in Aug you won't imagine wanting to go to the beach, as the weather cools you'll see why it's good to be close to it. Again, I don't know if you like a city vibe or a burb vibe, but only you will know when you get here. Also, looking at villas now is pointless, as they won't hold them till Aug. Best to just get one after you get here. Good luck!
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Latest post on 11 June 2013 - 10:04
No, we don't have a charity license. This is just a relationship we formed when we were there in Feb, and we are planning to help them for a very long time. Fantastic woman who runs it, she's 'mom' to 38 kids who's parents either left them due to alcoholism or are no longer around. She doesn't turn them out, they stay till they finish school and get jobs. We spent time with them over two days, wonderful kids. A lot of my friends have offered to donate goods - clothes, toys, art/school supplies, blankets, etc, and I would like to send it within the next week or so. Re weight, I'm guessing 50k? Not sure yet. It's something I'd like to do on a continuing basis. Also, they are in Kerala, in Trivandrum. Thanks!
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Latest post on 10 June 2013 - 13:29
Hi. What age is your child? I have two at Safa, and it's our first year in Dubai, and we agonized over the decision re schools when we moved from the US a year ago. I have friends with kids in both Safa and EC. I also have a friend who's got one child in EC secondary and one in Safa primary, and she wouldn't dream of moving her younger to EC. Another friend is moving her younger from Safa to be with his brother at EC. I think a lot of parents move them in secondary to EC. From what I understand, Safa facilities are better. I have have ups and downs there, and was offered places at DBS after first term at Safa and turned them down, after a lot of soul searching. What I like about Safa is that the kids are having a great time, and the kids are good kids, and it's a really fun, close knit, nurturing, creative school. What I worry about is that it will grow again next year, so maintaining that culture may be a challenge. But the staff there are very committed to making it a success. My biggest gripe is the lack of communication from the teachers, which I hear is better at EC. It's been a big issue for me, but my kids are thriving there, and are challenged, and tell me they love it, so I don't really want to rock the boat. I think if your child is into sports, Safa might be better. And as another poster said, Safa is very good in the pastoral side of things. I would, though, insist on a tour of EC, cos you need to get a good feel for the school. I think there's a wait list because the kids don't have to change schools out of primary. Best of luck!
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Latest post on 26 February 2013 - 10:11
Thank you all very much! I've got some calls to make now! Really appreciate the recommendations.
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Latest post on 25 February 2013 - 12:22
Trader Vics from 6-8, half off bar bites and cocktails. Very watered down cocktails :-( Huh, I don't agree with that. Every time we go we seem to get off our feet in short order.
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Latest post on 25 February 2013 - 11:30
Trader Vics from 6-8, half off bar bites and cocktails.
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Latest post on 25 February 2013 - 11:20
I have just started seeing (twice) Amanda at Hair Corridor and plan on taking my son and daughter there, too. She does a lot of kids' hair, and she knows how to give trendy cuts. I've also struggled with stylish cuts for my kids. I really am thrilled to have found her.
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Latest post on 25 February 2013 - 11:18
I had my short hair done by him and never went back. Just ok cut, to be honest. I'm very picky and have just found Amanda at Hair Corridor, and I'm pretty much sold, after being the 3rd hairstylist in 6 months I've been to. She's superb.
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Latest post on 25 February 2013 - 11:16
head to Bahri Bar afterwards, it's fab
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Latest post on 25 February 2013 - 11:13
I have short hair and I can shout from the rooftops about my new hairdresser, Amanda. She moved here from Scotland a few months ago and is BRILLIANT at short hair, and has years and years of experience, including Toni & Guy (who I know are big on razor cuts). I am picky about my hair cuts, and like them edgy but feminine, and it's impossible to find a good stylist here. I've been asked for her number while I'm out and about, it's that good. She's at Hair Corridor in the Park & Shop on al Wasl.
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Latest post on 31 January 2013 - 11:33
Hi Just thought I'd put the word out that we're having a sale at Safa school, which is just past the Bowling Centre on Meydan Rd (opposite Godolphin stables) this Friday, from 9:30-11:30. Tables are available for 100 dirhams, and there are still a few available. You can share a table with friends, too. Hope to see some of you there! bumping, still some tables if you want to have a clear out! or just shop!
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Latest post on 21 January 2013 - 13:02
Majoe - I think I might have just sent your listing to my husband, and if so, it's fate! Can you email me your ad and I may be your buyer, as I'm tired of renting! I'm at [email protected] Thanks!
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Latest post on 19 January 2013 - 08:59
Dragonmart all the way! I went to Ikea for a few windows, then tried Satwa, and got similar quotes, then paid about 2-300 dirhams per set of curtains there. Was amazing! I know they can also come out and measure and install, too.
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Latest post on 17 January 2013 - 15:47
huh, I'm gluten free and I've never even heard of those kinds of noodles. Pretty much any supermarket will have gluten free pasta. I personally don't like the rice ones, but rather, the corn ones. The BEST, IMHO, are made of quinoa. Closest to wheat based pasta I've seen. Not sure if I've seen it here, though. Maybe in the O Shop. When I was in the US at Xmas I was delighted to find some really good English Muffins, so maybe there's hope here, too. Bread is tough in Dubai to find, esp when I can get great bread in the US. I second the Doves flour reccy. One has xantham gum, the bread flour, and the other doesn't. I just made superb banana muffins the other day that you would never know were gluten free with it. In general, I can do a like for like switch out from normal to GF flour in recipes. If you're doing bready-cakey things, you need to add xantham gum or use the Doves with it in already. If anyone knows of a great bread that's GF here, I'd love to hear about it. In the meantime, I eat potatoes and corn tortillas and rice cakes, to satisfy my bread hankerings. :)
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Latest post on 14 January 2013 - 11:03
I swear it was easier being a mum in the old days. I dont think I could have been trusted with all this 'knowledge' mums have nowadays. The internet has us all thinking that our kids are dying of meningitis half the time, too. LOL. I feel sorry for docs, but on a positive not, it is pretty empowering being able to have an intelligent conversation with a dr, and to not just blindly trust them. I'm def guilty of being one of the challengers, and have an appt with my 6 yo this afternoon. Should be interesting! On a side note, I've absolutely been thrilled with the health care here so far. I think Dr's in other countries would likely say the same thing as the OP's did. What I think is odd, though, is that patients often ask for antibiotics, long before they know whether or not it's viral or bacterial. We tend to wait things out for several days to a week, and if no improvements in symptoms, it's often bacterial. Just got hit with bronchitis a few weeks ago, and are going in for suspected parasites today. Ewwww!
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Latest post on 14 January 2013 - 09:46
you may be able to get a loan elsewhere to pay off your loan here, just a thought. Honestly, it sounds like you don't want to go at all, and that your mind was made up before you even posted originally.
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Latest post on 14 January 2013 - 09:43
OP, having lived in Rhode Island, I would say it's absolutely beautiful in the Summer! So is Cape Cod, outside of Boston. Newport, Block Island, Narragansett, Hyannis (Mass), so many places, lobster, loads of kids running around, fabulous. Re Mexico, I've been a few times to Playa del Carmen, Tulum, Cancun, Mayan Riviera, etc. I'd not hesitate to go now, it's so gorgeous there!
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Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 22:15
Depending on what sort of stuff you're into, you should really look at Portland, Lake Oswego, West Linn. You really don't need to work, if your husband is ok with that. You can find plenty of time to do your own thing with part time nurseries, and spend time with your child. You can also find part time work there, but I'd wait till you got there. I was petrified about moving here, and SunDevil thought I was nuts, lol, as I'd just moved from the West to the East Coast. And I really did NOT want to come at all. But, amazingly, I loved it from the get go. You may feel the same in the US. Again, Texas is a bit conservative for my liking.
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Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 21:22
fyi a live in aupair would run you about $1600 per month, if you're lucky, which is why you may want to consider just being with your baby and bonding with him/her, and finding some part time nurseries, which there are a lot of in the US. :)
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Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 21:21
Go to Portland! You would love it. We still have two houses there, and I always go back. Re a live in, I'd look at greataupairs.com. Best affordable bet for you, I have friends in Portland who did that and had great success with a few girls from Brazil. Re budget, you can totally afford Portland, and I'd skip Hartford, personally. I think you should go. Life is an adventure, and as I said, we always have choices. You know what you have here, and you can always come back, and your friends will still be here when you come back.
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Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 21:17
This is very interesting to me too...it looks like we'll be moving there later this year. I haven't been there before, other than a brief layover in NYC - sorry to hijack the post, but to Beebers, may I ask why you wouldn't be keen on going back to California? That's where we'll be going, probably somewhere in San Francisco Bay area. Hi Beany, I have been all over California for business & pleasure, but didn't like living in LA and SoCal as much as I liked Texas. My best friends and extended family live there, so that's where my heart is. I am a midwest gal, but wouldn't move back to my hometown because of the winters! If I had to pick one city in CA, it would probably be Sausalito and that area. Truly it's lovely :) My cousin who has a couple of homes in SoCal has dealt with numerous issues over the years (mudslides, earthquakes, smoke form fires) and I don't know if that sounds happily ever after for me. That's all. Lovely to visit though! Truthfully, no plans to move back the US! ETA: Yes, my budget may have been on the conservative side, but it is not uncommon at all for Texas, and I did not include entertainment or shopping; just my "musts." I have friends that pay much less for rent and their vehicles x edited by Beebers on 13/01/2013 It's funny, I have a friend here who just bought in LA and is dying to get a green card to move there. I haven't really ever loved it there, either. Always been a nor cal girl, and agree Marin County is great, but v different from other parts of the Bay Area, mentality wise.
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Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 20:56
Look at Al Mizhar American Academy, too.
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Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 20:37
This is very interesting to me too...it looks like we'll be moving there later this year. I haven't been there before, other than a brief layover in NYC - sorry to hijack the post, but to Beebers, may I ask why you wouldn't be keen on going back to California? That's where we'll be going, probably somewhere in San Francisco Bay area. Funny, I'm from the Bay Area, and I would absolutely move back, but would really make sure you really look at the areas before you go. When I think about where we'll end up some day, I always dream about going back to crazy Cali. It's a great place to live, especially if you're on a pretty good income.
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Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 19:59
OP, I'm an American, in Dubai for 5 months now. I'm from California, and have lived in Portland, Providence, San Francisco and most recently in the Rochester, NY area. I've been all over the US, both for business and pleasure. I think the comments are really interesting here, as so many people seem keen to be back there. Personally, when we went for Christmas, while it was good to be home, I was also appreciating Dubai and couldn't wait to get back. Yes, you can aspire to live the American dream. But I see many entrepreneurs here, as well, so I'm not so sure you are that limited by your ambitions in Dubai. Pros of the US - shopping (yes, it's cheaper, especially with stores like Target and Costco); if you're in the right area, your kids will be out playing in the streets with others; people are pretty friendly, on the whole; it's great to experience the many seasons (oh, I miss that); walks in the woods/nature; freedom (though I haven't really felt an absence of freedom here, frankly). Cons of the US - taxes; an attitude of detachment/indifference amongst youth that astounds me, along with a growing lack of work ethic (my guests here now, who are graduating Uni and are 21, noticed this difference immediately here); the fact that it's not only ok, but also cool to be dumb - look at reality shows and daytime talk shows; you won't get the bling and glam of Dubai (I'm not even a glam sort, but I notice it here); you will not be able to have the help you have now, which I'll elaborate on - I'm sorry, but on the whole, you will be paying at the least, $10 an hour to an illegal alien or college kid, and up to $35 an hour to an agency cleaner. Sitters are anywhere from $6 an hour for a 14-15 year old, up to $12 an hour, depending on where you live. My friends here from India and Africa and the ME are always shocked that I have been doing everything alone for all of these years, which makes me laugh. I was always overwhelmed, but that was also because I do our finances and manage a few rental properties, and get pretty involved in school life. I also hate cleaning, so I paid someone to come in once a week, but that was a luxury at $75 per week, considering the many other expenses. Having said that, we have a full time maid and I miss our privacy. I think I'd prefer to have someone come a few times a week instead. If you are used to a live in, you will be in shock, but perhaps you will enjoy the freedom, too, of having the house to yourself. If you are Indian, take the time to explore other areas. I personally don't like Texas, but admittedly haven't spent a ton of time there (mostly because I don't like it). Most areas will welcome you, but not all. I find that there is a lot more racial and religious tolerance in Dubai than in the US. Re your budget, I think beebers' budget is a bit on the conservative side. If you are used to throwing money around, then you should pick an affordable part of the US, as rent will be your highest expense. You should also explore schools, as well. And do you want a city life or burbs, or nature? Depending on your answer, I can point to some areas, too. Do you want heat year 'round or seasons? Do you want a house in the burbs or a small flat in a vibrant city? Money magazine puts out a yearly best cities/places to live in the US that's pretty cool. Look it up. I think that your income is enough depending on the lifestyle you want. The thing that's great about your life and my life is that we have the good fortune to have these sorts of choices. To be honest, if your husband is keen then I'd give it a whirl. The worst that can happen is that you come back in a few years, but imagine the adventure you'll have. And it is an opportunity for you to become very close to your little one. I couldn't imagine not having had that time with my little ones. You can find part time work, or not, and just hang with your kid/s. If you choose a quieter or more suburban area, then your life can slow down and you can relax into a different life for awhile. Spend time looking at areas. The east and west coasts are generally more liberal, but Americans are ridiculously outgoing, so you'd be able to find friends. Also, don't assume that schools there are better. Do a bit of research there. Happy to help if you describe a bit more what you're into. And if it helps, we're still not sure where we'll end up! We've got houses on both coasts, lol.
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Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 19:07
It depends on how much time you have, but I would do Portland, Mt Hood, Oregon Coast, then drive up to Seattle and hit the San Juan Islands (breathtaking scenery), such as Orcas and San Juan, then go to Victoria BC and Vancouver. I did this trip years ago, and kayaking and sailing and ferrying in the Puget Sound is brilliant.
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Latest post on 05 December 2012 - 10:37
OP, I have a 5 yo daughter who's the same way, and I miss our library like crazy, too. She reads a few hours a day. Maybe we can do a book swap? I have quite a few here, and am about to bring some back from the US, too.
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Latest post on 04 December 2012 - 20:50
Personally, I wouldn't send my kids to Regent, not with all of the the administrative issues they have, and the Prim School Head mysteriously left a few weeks ago. I know a few people who love the teachers there, though. I've also had parents tell me they are pretty happy at Gems SO, too, but if you had to choose between the two, I'd take the latter. But, you don't say if you're American or English, or what sort of curriculum you want. You also don't say what sort of lifestyle you're into. My husband works in Internet City, we live in Meadows, kids in Safa (which I would highly suggest you look into), and who's new, better, KHDA ratings will be out soon. We looked at a ton of schools, and our kids are thrilled there. All the new kids say the same, as well. We've been here 3 months, and we will likely move to Umm Seq or Jumeirah next year, though I always assumed we'd be in Meadows or Ranches before I actually lived here. Given the choice between Meadows and Ranches, I would never choose the Ranches, funny enough. It just feels too far out for me. But I know people like it there. I happen to love the vibe of the Meadows, but wish we had just done Springs 1, which is so nice an walkable. Most of my friends and kids' friends are in Umm Seq and Jumeirah, and now that the weather is nice, I get it why people are there, and we will head there when our lease is up here. Having said that, I LOVE coming home to the greenery, the chilled out driving, the little oasis that is Meadows, and I'm sure Ranches people would say the same. edited by verdeque on 04/12/2012 <em>edited by verdeque on 04/12/2012</em>
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Latest post on 27 November 2012 - 12:43
brilliant, thanks. I will check out Co op first as it's near the school. Fingers crossed!
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Latest post on 27 November 2012 - 11:27
thank you! I'll check them out.
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Latest post on 27 November 2012 - 11:20
OMG I just read this as I'm searching for my 8yo and also live in Meadows. Would have paid to see him dancing on the footie pitch. Hilarious post! My son has taken dance before and is also keen to start again, so have you managed to find anything?
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Latest post on 27 November 2012 - 10:37
bump - I really have no idea re best parts of Sri Lanka, and am open to Maldives, Africa, wherever. But if anyone has any tips re best way to book & research, I'd appreciate it. :)
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Latest post on 27 November 2012 - 10:24
Hi between myself, a friend and a lovely caring lady from this forum we have been trying to find the kitty which has disappeared. I can't tellnyou how guilty I feel now about not doing more for the kitty when it was in front of me. I thought best would be to get some help but with hindsight shouldnof grabbed hold of it when it was in front of me. Got everyone from security to cleaners and I will keep looking too... it's ok. Will keep in touch but I fly tomorrow night...hope to get some good news by then... Hi, it's the 'caring lady' here. If you have the chance to have a look one more time today, please let me know if you find it. I hope you managed to leave a tin of food and water, too, and that you found where the cleaners had moved the blanket. Mel has my number and I'm happy to have the cleaners get in touch if they find it. I told them to put the kitten in a box. I understand your distress, that is NO place for a kitten. Poor poor baby.
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Latest post on 27 November 2012 - 10:21
OP, if you are planning to move here, anyway, then coming before won't make a difference. You will find your own way once here. But, if you can, I would wait till you come before deciding on schools, if you don't tour in advance. It's only once you're here and touring them that you get a good feel for the schools. And what I read on this forum about schools and what I am actually experiencing and hearing since being here are MILES apart. You may wish to reach out to Fiona Coutts if you won't be able to come first. She's good about understanding what your needs are before helping you pick the right school. Re housing, I am sooo glad we did short term let first, but having said that, although it gave us time to check out various areas, we're still very likely to move next year, anyway. We've been here 3 months and really like it so far, and are really happy with our school. There is another child in my son's year 4 class who is over the moon, having recently switched from another Dubai school. I would also add that the experiences your child will get here are amazing, and the lack of crime is a great comfort, as well.
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Latest post on 25 November 2012 - 23:15
I'm a sporadic EW user so put my name in a new thread if you don't hear back from me. Moving in Dubai is not a big hassle, as the removal companies are fantastic here, and they pack up the whole lot and unpack on the other end. A full service move for a 3 bedroom would be 2-3000 dirhams. We are planning to move again when our lease is up, as much as we love our landlord. Where you will work will be a factor. Can I suggest you go on dubizzle.com and look at short term lets through Arabian Escapes or PK Properties (who we used). You can rent for a month at a time in a furnished place and have a look at the areas you like. We did our first month in one while we waited till our stuff arrived. If/when we move next year, we will either go to Springs or to Umm Seq/Jumeirah/Al Safa, though it will be tough beating our lives here.
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Latest post on 25 November 2012 - 21:16
I should add that the main reason I'm not thrilled about it is it doesn't seem as green as the others. In others, you see a bit more of an effort from people that live there.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 November 2012 - 21:14
we have friends there and I wouldn't choose it, personally. It's not as green as some of the others, but having said that, you can always move if you don't like it. I prefer those that are closer to the main road, or Springs 1 is fantastic.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 November 2012 - 19:23
The real estate agency will handle the paperwork for you, but our contract had to be revised in a lot of areas, which they were happy to do. There are some standard Dubai clauses, but the contract we were given had some clauses that weren't to our advantage. If you do rent in Springs, I'm happy to send you a contract with wording that's fair for tenants. We moved from temp housing in Springs to Meadows, and I completely regret not moving to another Springs property. We nearly moved to Springs 11 and man I'm sorry I didn't. You may want to look at Springs 1, depending on whether or not you have school runs (as the traffic is bad at those times from there) I'd just stay away from some of the main roads, such as street 1 in Springs 14. Some Springs are nicer than others, and you'll want to make sure you've got easy access to and from work.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 November 2012 - 19:16
our half term is Feb 10-14. Is there an equivalent or Thomsons or the like out here?
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 November 2012 - 23:17
I would really enjoy an election breakfast party! I would only enjoy it if "my" candidate won ;). Otherwise, I'll be wearing black all day :) I'll be wearing black for weeks!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 November 2012 - 23:15
Of course people care about the elections! And I am trying to figure out if I'm going to pull an all-nighter tomorrow to watch it all. It will be a very dark day if Romney is elected. Ask anyone who supports Obama what they think of Romney, and they are passionately against him, for a multitude of reasons. If it weren't so late, I'd go on a bit of a rant, as I can't believe a comment such as 'does anyone care?'