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WhiteOrchid

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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 December 2014 - 18:02
[ Have you got kids? No just the two of us and five pets, which is why we need a villa Wow, 5 pets! That must be expensive (and hard work).
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 December 2014 - 09:28
Hi and congrats! Wonderful news. I would say you could go to Mediclinic and confirm your pregnancy (although you don't necessarily need to at this stage). I used that place early on in my pg with my 3rd, and the doctors were all fine (except for one - an Iraqi lady, sorry can't remember her name). Just be careful and check your insurance before agreeing to scans etc as the cost can add up if you don't have maternity cover. Wishing you a safe and happy pregnancy xx
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 December 2014 - 09:22
We will decide when our lease is up but atm it looks as though we will stay. Although we could do with a bigger place, we have a very reasonable rent here so moving would mean a considerable hike in the current market. Plus we are actually very happy with our apt, location, facilities and the fact that staying enables us to save.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 December 2014 - 08:38
Hi I don't have any exp of SGH but a friend of mine is about to deliver there so I will update you when she does.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 December 2014 - 08:37
Hi not sure about packages, but you're not too far from Pretty Lady on Mankhool. It's a very god salon with very good prices. Hth x
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 December 2014 - 08:35
Yes, no matter how nice anywhere is there is still no place like home. feel sad for the one dislike this comment received... how bad must the conditions be back home for this person.. :( Yes, that is sad, perhaps a war torn country? Actually, I don't think that's sad at all. I love my home countries but don't necessarily believe that life there is better than anywhere else. Possibly due to my third culture kid (expat) upbringing... when you are nomadic you can find true happiness virtually anywhere :-) And yes I *love* living in Dubai... so this would be my choice right now.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 December 2014 - 08:25
Thanks for the update, minamiller. I'm about to start my own job search so will let you know how I get on. I won't be using any agencies or job sites - just contacting ppl I know and networking. Touch wood I will get somewhere. Keep trying, you will get there eventually!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 30 November 2014 - 22:23
But maybe ppl need to reassess their lifestyles a bit - personally, I don't think we 'need' large villa or a maid (unless I go back to work full time) Why is there so often an assumption that if you're struggling with the increasing cost of living here, it's because you're living it up too much? Most people we know don't have villas, don't have maids, don't live the "Dubai lifestyle" - but they're only getting by month-to-month and can't save. We're talking families with a monthly income of around 40k, which isn't amazing, but isn't particularly low either (the average monthly salary in the UAE is about 18k). Now that most companies no longer pay rent or school fees, Dubai isn't a place for families to come if they are serious about saving. It's a place to come to enjoy a different sort of lifestyle for a while, but not a luxurious one, and then to leave again after a few years with no real savings, but some good memories. I wish someone would help me reassess our lifestyle then!!! Yes between us we bring in more than 40K a month, but we're still struggling to save much. We live in a 2 bed villa and unfortunetely can't downsize as we brought our fur family with us. If our LL decides to give us 12 months notice next year we're stuffed, unless a miracle happens regarding rents by then. We run two cheap cars, neither of which is a hugh 4X4. In the three years since we arrived, we've done one brunch a couple of dinners out when friends have been over and same goes for beach days. Yes I go to a salon approx every six weeks and hairdresser every 2/3 months for a cut. Apart from this we live pretty much the same as we did back in the UK, so if anyone can help and tell us where I'm going wrong, I'd be eternally grateful. Have you got kids?
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 November 2014 - 09:20
[ For those who are paying rent, DEWA, and, for parents, school fees from their own pockets, DXB is expensive. A family of 4, needing a villa, two school places, a housekeepers, so villa with domestics room, would certainly be feeling it if they pay from their pockets. As mum of three school age kids I completely agree that life is expensive. But maybe ppl need to reassess their lifestyles a bit - personally, I don't think we 'need' large villa or a maid (unless I go back to work full time). Small changes can make a big difference and we still save reasonable amount regularly.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 November 2014 - 08:18
Hi I agree with all of the above, and would also add: a) be yourself - if they like you they will hire you and b) watch how you dress... sounds obvious, but make sure you look professional and in line with the org's culture (e.g. do not show too much leg or any cleavage, esp if it is a govt employer). Hth xx
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 November 2014 - 10:08
Yuck!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 November 2014 - 10:07
Hi a friend of mine did that course at EYES in Knowledge Village and it was very good. Personally, I would favour that over an online course as you have the benefit of face-to-face teaching and peer support. She did hers over a year in parallel with working as a TA in a school. Hth x
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 November 2014 - 08:20
http://www.nhs.uk/Livewell/Childrenssleep/Pages/howmuchsleep.aspx There's no magical number of hours of sleep that all children in a particular age group need, but here is a guide to the hours of slumber they should aim for. Sleep is very important to a child's wellbeing. A lack of sleep can cause a child to become hyperactive and disagreeable, and have extremes in behaviour. Here are some approximate numbers based on age, as recommended by the Millpond Children’s Sleep Clinic: (...) 3 years daytime: 1 hour night time: 11 hours 4 years night time: 11.5 hours 5 years night time: 11 hours 6 years night time: 10.75 hours 7 years night time: 10.5 hours 8 years night time: 10.25 hours (...)
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 November 2014 - 08:15
Hi there, I feel your pain. I don't have help either, and with 3 kids find it hard to get everything done and get them all into bed at a 'reasonable' time. What *seems* to work best is sorting out the pack lunches (which take me at least half an hour) when we get home from school in the afternoon (after 2.30pm). The kids are tired at this time and need to relax. They normally have a snack around then. Then we start homework at around 5pm, although I would like it to be earlier. My eldest gets quite a bit, so sometimes we leave some (e.g. reading) for after the 2 youngest are asleep. I try to get my kids into bed at around 8pm... but they don't get up until just before 7am. I read somewhere that at this age kids need somewhere between 10 and 12 hours sleep. Everyone is different, but personally I would find 5.30pm much too early for my youngest (nearly 3) to go to bed. He just isn't tired enough at that time as he has a nap at school. Plus my dh doesn't get home until later and I feel it's important to spend time together as a family.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 09 November 2014 - 11:18
It is annoying when you have to fill in your details on job sites with your DOB, nationality, gender, marital status and even religion! If companies asked for that information in the UK they'd be in sooo much trouble. You don't think that people in the uk clock this info about you? and decide accordingly True... studies were carried out in the UK showing that candidates with muslim-sounding names were much less likely to be contacted than those with English ones.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 08 November 2014 - 10:54
Hi, not an expert on this topic but as far as I'm aware they run a specialist breast cancer clinic at AH. http://www.ahdubai.com/medservices/specialty.aspx?spl_id=42
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 08 November 2014 - 10:39
This is why it's best not to use 'traditional' routes to find a job here. Much better to network and meet people in person. Once they see you face-to-face you stand a much better chance. In my experience, discrimination is mainly practiced by junior HR staff who follow clear 'rules', while more senior ppl tend to be more open-minded.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 08 November 2014 - 10:21
Add to that, the adverts that ask for thin, beautiful applicants aged 18-25 and only CVs with full length photos will be considered. I once saw a vacancy that required a female PA that had to be 'slim in body, able to travel with the director, open minded but private'. Omg.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 November 2014 - 21:54
Admittedly, it is easier to gain weight here than elsewhere - the immediate availability of pretty much anything, the relentless advertising of junk food, the weather, etc. - but it all comes down to choices. There is nothing in the air here that inflates our fat cells beyond our control. If you make healthy food choices, say no to the garbage that is everywhere, exercise a few times a week and drink plenty of water you will not gain weight. Simple as that. I have actually lost weight during my 2 years here... *ducks for cover* Me too.. especially since having had 3 kids without help at home. I just eat when I'm hungry(ish), avoid big meals late at night, drink very little and keep brunch for special occasions. When I do go I try to stick to 3 courses - and not huge ones.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 October 2014 - 15:37
Polish Room behind Lime Tree Cafe, Jumeira (near Iranian hospital).
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 October 2014 - 23:00
Just wondering why someone would thumb down our maid having a two day weekend and being off when DH gets a day of? We value our privacy, is that so incomprehensible? edited by Oopsiedaisy on 24/10/2014 If we had a FT maid, we would be exactly the same! :) Same here! Amazing how someone can get thumbed down for treating their helper well.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 October 2014 - 12:29
TB Yep that's exactly it, I'm going there right now to take a look! Soon we won't be able to move for developments .... Thanks pollydxb, let us know what you see! Would like to pop up there too but need to rush out.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 24 October 2014 - 09:35
Omg! Are they closing the entire beach off? How far to the hoardings go? How annoying - just as the weather had got better and we were about to start going again!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 October 2014 - 12:27
Personally I wouldn't bother with agencies atm as the mkt is v crowded. Instead do your own networking and suggest meeting ppl for coffee to discuss opportunities. Once they meet you face to face it's a completely different ball game.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 October 2014 - 10:35
What a shame... I liked her in the 1st BJ movie (and Jerry Macguire) but she is now *totally* unrecognisable. Her inset eyes were her trademark - now that they're gone, she is just any old Hollywood actress. Oh well. I always did think Kate WInslet would have been a better choice for BJ.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 October 2014 - 17:46
Hi 3rd time lucky, this is the type of villa I meant: http://dubai.dubizzle.com/property-for-rent/residential/villahouse/2014/10/13/3bed-maid-in-satwa-compound-2/?back=ZHViYWkuZHViaXp6bGUuY29tL3Byb3BlcnR5LWZvci1yZW50L3Jlc2lkZW50aWFsL3ZpbGxhaG91c2UvP3ByaWNlX19ndGU9MTUwMDAwJnByaWNlX19sdGU9MjAwMDAwJmJlZHJvb21zX19ndGU9MyZiZWRyb29tc19fbHRlPTMmcGxhY2VzX19pZF9faW49JnBsYWNlc19faWRfX2luPTU3JTJDJmtleXdvcmRzPSZpc19iYXNpY19zZWFyY2hfd2lkZ2V0PTAmaXNfc2VhcmNoPTEmYWRkZWRfX2d0ZT0mY29tcGFueV9pdGVtX2lkPSZmdXJuaXNoZWQ9Jmxpc3RlZF9ieT0mc2l6ZV9fZ3RlPSZzaXplX19sdGU9JmJhdGhyb29tc19fZ3RlPSZiYXRocm9vbXNfX2x0ZT0mcmVhbF9lc3RhdGVfYWdlbnQ9JmxhbmRsb3JkPSZwcm9wZXJ0eV9kZXZlbG9wZXI9&pos=1
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 October 2014 - 08:38
Hi Mairam No, I went to school just outside Paris - at the Lycee International in St Germain-en-Laye. It is a fantastic school, and I *believe* there is a similar one in Toulouse (probably for Airbus expats). The great thing about international 'lycees' is that they enable your kids to experience the French system while maintaining their level of English and exposure to British culture. As such they come out perfectly bilingual and 'bicultural'. 'British' international schools, on the other hand, may be good at teaching the BC but would not expose them to French culture to the same extent. As such they may end up just living in an expat community and not really benefiting from their time in France (imo - others may disagree of course). They are also *much* more expensive. Mainstream French schools have a high standard, so it may be quite hard for your ds to adjust at first. But within a year of being totally immersed in the language he would probably be completely fluent. And if you say that he is good at languages, that's a great start. And the long term benefits of being exposed to the French system are fabulous - including access to (virtually) free university education. Feel free to email me on [email protected].
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 October 2014 - 07:48
Hi I have heard good things about l'Arc en Ciel on Al Wasl rd, near the Life Pharmacy junction. In fact I got a flyer from them yesterday advertising a holiday camp.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 October 2014 - 07:46
Hi our Dewa bill is AED750 per month... but that's because we live in an apt so irrelevant to you I guess! Lol. I have friends who live in villas with 'reasonable' bills e.g. under AED1k in the winter. They are on older Arenco developments without a pool and with central a/c (as opposed to window a/c) in the Al Badaa area. I would say you could just about get a villa for your budget around there (some are AED170-175k atm). Good luck in your search, and welcome back :-)
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 October 2014 - 22:52
Hi mairam, Congratulations on your upcoming move. France is an amazing place and moving there is a fantastic opportunity for your kids. I went through the French system at both primary and secondary levels, although I had a 3 year break from 11-13 years. I'm interested to hear that you think it is based on rote learning though. Personally I would not sat that at all - quite the opposite. Granted, it is very academic but I don't recall learning much by heart at all. Far more emphasis is placed on how you structure your thoughts and present them in a logical manner. I attended an international school based on the French curriculum, but with additional lessons in English and history (taught through English). It was a fantastic way of achieving s bilingual education. I'm not sure whether there is any such school in Tours though (there is in Toulouse). I'm happy to answer any questions you may have on French schooling. Hth x
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 October 2014 - 19:02
Hi Bonbon, I have attended weddings/black tie receptions at all of these except for Monarch/H Hotel. My view is that the food and service is much of a muchness as they are all experienced at hosting these events. •Park Hyatt: Beautiful hotel but once you are in function room it looks like any other. Still high standard though. •Monarch/H Hotel: N/A •Grand Hyatt: Great for very large weddings (e.g. local ones). V experienced due to size and age of hotel (over 10 yrs). •Hyatt Regency Deira (not sure of location due to heavy traffic and area near souk and naif): Lovely views of Creek but obviously older hotel. Also agree re: location. •Fairmont on the Palm: Very nice brand new ballroom. Only issue may be access (on Palm - not everyone likes driving there). •Al Qasr (seems way over her budget): Definitely not worth the extra as once you are in function room it looks like any other hotel and you don't benefit from the surroundings. •One and Only Royal Mirage: I love this hotel. More established *and* luxurious. Ladies toilet are fab (lol). May need to double-check size of ballroom though. •Westin: Very good all round. Am guessing it might be expensive though. Others with large ballrooms you may wish to try are the Intercontinental in FC and the Movenpick Oud Metha (v popular for local weddings). Good luck! Hth xx <em>edited by WhiteOrchid on 15/10/2014</em>
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Latest post on 15 October 2014 - 16:35
Hello ladies, just to let you know that the thread I started asking for advice on moving back to the uk has been moved to the UK board. I didn't know it existed but it is specific to repatriation etc. A great idea :-)
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 October 2014 - 16:29
Thanks for the responses so far, ladies! Keep em coming :-) He didn't actually specify England, although that's where we lived as a young family (London then Cambridge). I know what you mean re having relatives/friends around. He is actually from Ireland originally but says he doesn't really want to go back there as he's been away for so long. Thanks again xx
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 October 2014 - 15:19
Hello, my dad is looking to retire back in the UK after over 30 years as an expat. Can anyone suggest any nice areas? Ideally, he would like: - Beautiful countryside and wildlife - Somewhere outside of London commuter belt - Good access to airports. He'd like to buy a house with a bit of land so that he can have animals on it. Any ideas? I know it's a bit vague ;-)... I love the UK but my knowledge outside of London is a bit limited. Lol! TIA x
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 October 2014 - 22:09
For me, it's actually a class issue. Upper class people treat everyone that works for them with respect and lower class people don't. I doubt very much that there are any upper class expats in the UAE. I don't agree with that - I've met many people I would consider upper class. What make you think they are upper class ? Usually the way they behave. Aaahhhh... the dreaded C-word. I think there are different interpretations of the term 'upper class'. In the UK, this category is limited to the aristocracy, super-wealthy and those who detain considerable political power. I don't think there are many of those in Dubai... at least not in the expat community. Lol ;-) Definition of 'upper class' from Wikipedia: "The upper class in modern societies is the social class composed of the wealthiest members of society, who also wield the greatest political power. According to this view, the upper class is generally contained within the wealthiest 1-2% of the population, and is distinguished by immense wealth (in the form of estates) which is passed on from generation to generation.[1'>[unreliable source?'> This popular definition is at odds, however, with how the upper class views itself: as members of families that have been long distinguished not merely by wealth or fame which are ostensibly available to all in a democratic society but rather by generations of leadership in public service, education, charity, the military, and the arts."
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 October 2014 - 21:53
I don't think we can debate the subject honestly without going down the nationality route and that can never end well... Personally, I take exception to the assumption that Westerners are new to employing help...a crass thing to say, imo. Well, historically, westerners did employ full time help (until WW2). After that it became very expensive to do so, and the invention of white goods made them pretty much redundant. So the *current* generation of Europeans do not have experience of having 'staff', and grew up in much more egalitarian (if not classless) societies. This is why Western expats see helpers as a real luxury and, for the most part, wish to treat them as equals. Personally, I cannot for the life of me think of a single reason not do treat someone with respect.
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Latest post on 13 October 2014 - 21:28
It's true that now both main French schools (Pompidou and Aflec) have uniforms. The only remaining one *may* be ICE (new French school at Meydan)... but I wouldn't be surprised if they also rolled one out soon as they are owned by Aflec.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 August 2014 - 14:13
I went to the Mankhool travel clinic yesterday and had a vg experience. Was seen asap and ended up getting 6 different jabs incl yellow fever. Cost about AED650 in total. Hth x
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 August 2014 - 14:10
I had a good experience with Belhasa 5 years ago. My advice would be to go the VIP route - more expensive but better instructors and shorter waiting times. Oh and always dress modestly - esp the day of the test. I'm pretty sure some women fail (despite driving perfectly well) due to inappropriate clothing (e.g. short skirts, short sleeves etc). Good luck - learning to drive here is nowhere near as bad as some ppl say.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 20 August 2014 - 22:25
Instead of thumbing down posters who are willing to pay a decent salary of 3000aed, why don't you just reply to the OP and mention what you pay or would be willing to pay? I agree that 4000-6500 is excessive, but 2750 or 3000 certainly isn't in my book. The maids pay anything between 700 and 1000 for a bed in Satwa and their transport, clothing, toiletries and most of their meals are also paid from their live-out salaries. And as for 2 days off, for many employers with a live-out maid privacy is the main reason. I don't want her hanging around in the weekend, and she also gets every day DH gets. Thanks Oopsiedaisy... not quite sure what was so controversial about the package I described ;-). LOL!
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Latest post on 20 August 2014 - 22:13
Sounds good. Whereabouts in Satwa is it?
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Latest post on 20 August 2014 - 22:11
I would say that given the current state of affairs (global recession, v low interest rates), it is mainly about capital preservation - i.e.earning money, 'parking' it somewhere so as not to spend it (as pollydxb says) and waiting until there are more worthwhile investments available. Regular saving plans sound like a good idea, but as with any commitment, it's important to read the fine print carefully. Some charge high fees and impose a penalty if you pull out within a year or two. Ultimately, what's most important is that you *do* save - whether you pay into a pension scheme, transfer it to an offshore account or just stick it in a mattress! Lol.
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Latest post on 20 August 2014 - 22:03
Good I hope so! The UK account is looking rather low! Ours too. We were advised to sit tight for now though, as they are expecting the GBP to be worth less that AED 6 soon. Fingers crossed. That would be great. Pound is way too strong atm!
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Latest post on 20 August 2014 - 21:55
Is it part of the Repton group? Yes, I think so.
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Latest post on 20 August 2014 - 21:50
And IMHO you don't want to live in Dubai without a pool :) I have always stayed where there was a pool and only ever done in once when i was living in Hilton AD any years ago and only because i wanted to see the view at pool level as they'd begn billing the island off the corniche. Since that - not touched pool water. Possibly... but a pool is a major bonus with kids. Especially in the warmer months when it's difficult for them to exercise outside.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 August 2014 - 10:18
And, at the risk of sounding very earnest and un-British, self-depracation is what I love most about the UK. That and its open-minded, liberal embrace of multi-culturalism. Oh Lord, definitely move away from Guardian readers. Thanks Lolacat, I take that as a compliment :-).
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Latest post on 17 August 2014 - 10:15
The points made were about protocols and respect, shall i Google translate my posts into US English to see if that helps with the comprehension. lol Maybe you should keep to your promise and hold your tongue. How condescending can you get. Or am I not allowed to comment, not being a British national .... I agree, Oopsiedaisy. That post is incredibly rude and, ironically, un-British in its pomposity.
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Latest post on 17 August 2014 - 10:10
And, at the risk of sounding very earnest and un-British, self-depracation is what I love most about the UK. That and its open-minded, liberal embrace of multi-culturalism.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 August 2014 - 10:07
[ The Brits are known for being self depreciating? Where on earth do you get that idea? Perhaps changing one's social circles may be in order. Errr... yes. Fyi: "Self-deprecation is a trait that permeates British culture. It is a national characteristic - evident in a sense of history that, possibly uniquely, dwells on 'glorious' failures (the Charge of the Light Brigade, Dunkirk, Scott's race against Amunsden). The British have a horror of what they call 'blowing your own trumpet', and are deeply averse to earnestness, pomposity and self-importance. Statements that, in another culture, would simply be attributed as confident expressions of self-esteem, are misinterpreted in Britain as boastful and self-aggrandising. If you want to avoid being misunderstood, learn to downplay your attributes and resort wherever possible to understatement. People will read between the lines and admire your modesty. - See more at: http://www.debretts.com/british-etiquette/british-behaviour/r-s/self-deprecation#sthash.doprX6Sw.dpuf".
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Latest post on 17 August 2014 - 10:03
Hi I am planning to hire a live out helper soonish and pay her aed3k + bens (sponsorship, flights, health insurance etc). Sorry I forgot to mention she would also get 1.5-2 days off and money for xmas, bdays etc.