Zannie | ExpatWoman.com
 

Zannie

Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 March 2012 - 22:22
Get these, they are brilliant! https://www.spacebag.co.uk/
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 March 2012 - 13:02
I've flown several times during both my pregnancies and during all trimesters. As long as you're not classes as a high risk (I.e. previous pregnancy complications) that could effect this pregnancy, then there is no reason you can't fly. Just follow the advise all airlines give you by drinking plenty of fluids, and try and move around as much as possible. Just be careful when lifting heavy luggage etc, get someone else to do it for you.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 March 2012 - 13:02
Loads in the Toy Store in Mall of the Emirates.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 March 2012 - 20:43
We're one of the lucky ones in DG. Our LL is Meeras and we have excellent service from them. Wasl manage the buildingd. The area is always clean and tidy and well maintainedm, 24 hour security, 24 hour free maintenance, free air con and the garden areas well looked after. What buildings are affected?
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 March 2012 - 19:27
Maids can only be put on your visa, cannot be on a spouse visa. The authorities are very strict about this and big fines and deportation for both parties if found out, and they do check. If you want a P/T maid you'll have to go through a maid agency. Price from 25 to 35 AED per hour. As for visa costs, no idea I'm afraid, but I would assume in the long term, cheaper to get a full time live in maid if you need something six hours everyday.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 March 2012 - 19:23
Sorry, responded to wrong maid thread!
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 March 2012 - 19:21
The police cars with the big white boxes on the top of them can read all license plates which is connected to an in car computer that tells them if the car is upto date with its registration and insurance, just like in the UK. That's why they're often seen sitting at the side of the road. They're checking your details are upto date. That's how I got caught a while back with expired registration. DH was organising, but got delayed doing for a few days and it expired. I got pulled, car impounded for a week and 600AED fine. Personally, ask the insurance co for 24 hr cover, not worth the risk.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 March 2012 - 19:15
You cannot hire a maid on her husband's visa, she has to be on yours. Only way around it is going through a maid agency and paying an hourly rate.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 March 2012 - 23:43
Geant, Carrefour or most of he big supermarkets have a good selection. There is a Party Centre in Garhoud opposite the Welcare which isn't too bad. For my DD's 1st b'day, I bought plain pink plates, cups etc (the pastic type & seemed much better quality than the paper ones, and much cheaper) and just got fancy napkins all from here. Great selection and probably the best place to go as they stock everything. http://www.mypartycentre.com/
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 March 2012 - 23:37
We bought our baby sheepskins from Skye Skyns on the Isle of Skye; http://www.skyeskyns.co.uk/shop.asp?cat_id=1&sub_id=3&prod_id=21 DS still uses his in his toddler bed, goes under his mattress protector. So easy to look after and can go in the washing machine and comes out like new after a brush. They ship to the UAE, or use Shop and Shipif you have.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 09 March 2012 - 09:31
Have you thought about having a colour analysis done? There is a lady called Janet that runs a company called House of Colour. She is based in AR. She basically gives you a full overhaul of your wardrobe and makeup you are wearing. She recommends colours that suit you and categorises you as a season, such as Spring, Summer, Autumn, Winter. The good thing is she also has gorgeous clothes to flatter all shapes and sizes. I'm a summer (colour wise) and since my confidence has soared as I know what suits me and my shape. I'm a UK size 20, so know how frustrating clothes shopping is! Janet has a stall at ARTE (on today from midday at Time Square), if you can, go and see her. She'll be able to give you a good description of what she can offer. She's very popular and comes highly recommended. https://www.facebook.com/houseofcolourdubai <em>edited by Zannie on 09/03/2012</em>
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 08 March 2012 - 08:07
You would think if he was under performing, why haven't hasn't the company raised any concerns before now? Or given him warnings? Seems fishy to me. OP's husband needs to take advice as suggested already.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 March 2012 - 18:21
Why not get a 12aed scoop and ask for an extra cup, then scoop half out into the other cup? Just have to make sure each child wants the same flavour! As for McD's ice cream, I just ask for a small cup when buying their 1aed ice cream for DS as he's too young to eat one of their ice creams fast enough. Never had a problem, just explain the reason and the staff always help. When we were home in the UK last summer, it was an average of £2 for an ice cream, so about the same price as here. These were for a regular sized cornet, not the big double ones.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 20 February 2012 - 21:34
Go to Prime Gourmet in the Gold & Diamond Park on SZR. Very good meat, I think the owner is from South Africa and knows his stuff. They supply to many of the big hotels here. Very reasonable IMO. Not sure if they have chicken yet, he was sourcing a free dance supplier last time I asked him. Does all cuts, gorgeous steaks, homemade sausages, joints .....
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 February 2012 - 19:47
Dinnertime all together is difficult during the week as DH isn't often home until 6.30pm onwards, so to make sure wee ones are on schedule for an early night, they will have had their tea by then. They always sit at their table with me when having their tea and usually we sit all together for lunch/tea at the weekends.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 February 2012 - 17:48
Most companies have to file their staff salary details with the MoL Wages Protections Scheme (WPS): http://www.mol.gov.ae/english/wpsGuidelineEng.aspx It maybe worth taking a look and see if your friends company should be in this scheme as I think it's law for certain companies to protect employees from this problem on salary non payment. The Company pay the full salary amount to the MoL and they then forward to each employee. If the Company fail to transfer the funds, they can be fined or worse.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 February 2012 - 17:42
My two (4 and 2 years old) are usually in bed by 7.30pm, sometimes earlier. We're lucky they always sleep through until 6.30am (ish). Only weekends we let them stay up later as we're usually out and about. I always feed the kids between 5.30-6pm, then bath, story, bed! Then we can have our tea in peace!
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 February 2012 - 09:16
Very sad for the daughter she left behind. TBH, not surprised, was only a matter of time considering her problems.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 February 2012 - 09:15
Great thanks for that. Was sure that was the place as seen signs last month for the Golf Champ, but just wanted to double check. FiL will be pleased!
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 February 2012 - 08:52
FiL wants to visit this Golf Course. Not to play, just for a look/see, have a coffee in the club house. Can non-members go? Also, is it the one off the Emirates Road? Ta!
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 06 February 2012 - 22:52
We're in DG too. Our LL is the developer Meeras and the buildings they own are managed and leased by Wasl (800 WASL). You can lease directly through them. You can pay monthly,, plus cooling charges are inclusive. Very good LL, look after the building and maintenance is free and efficient.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 31 January 2012 - 16:18
We have used a company called Prodent and they are fantastic. They also offer a mobile dent service which we've used several times. I've recommended them several times on here. They offer this service and Robert (the owner) has informed me they are the main supplier of G Techniq Products in the UAE and a new product paint protection product is about to be launched by them in the next two to three weeks. Robert's going to keep me updated as we're also planning to have this done to our car as soon as he gets it. They're on Facebook and their Website; http://www.prodent.ae/
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 January 2012 - 09:24
Most juice places in the malls will have it. Zest in Ibn Battuta has it too. Organic Supermarket occasionally sell fresh wheatgrass in trays, for you to make yourself, but the cost of the juicers are shocking!
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 January 2012 - 23:29
Oh that's so sad. We're in an apartment, which wont be good for Pat as he'll be used to going outside. A big bump for this puss!
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 January 2012 - 20:51
Yes, she did. Can't ever remember mentioning her name on here. Anyway, I would highly recommend her. She basically prevented a very nasty rupture I nearly had and delivered my DS safe and sound into the World. She was the senior obstetrician in the operating theatre and was extremely professional and caring as I was in a bit of a state when I was first taken in there. I hadn't seen her before then, but saw her several times after whilst recovering when she came to see how I was doing. I found her to be very experienced and easy to talk to. She is an older lady and remember her wearing big Pat Butcher (from Eastenders) earrings! I'd highly recommend her.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 January 2012 - 20:37
I'll just check my paperwork to make sure. I wasn't registered with her at Al Wasl. However, due to the complications I had at the birth of my DS, she was the best qualified to perform the Caesereans and she was brought in. I'll get back to you shortly, just to make sure we're talking about the same doctor.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 January 2012 - 14:36
My daughter is saying zee not zed for Z. Keep having to correct her on that.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 January 2012 - 13:17
We've also had missing parts. Customer Services usually have a big stash of screws and other bits and pieces. We weren't charged either!
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 January 2012 - 13:15
Can he not get a consolidation loan, pay off and get rid of the credit cards, so he will have one monthly payment over a duration that suits him? As long as he's not in arrears, he should have a problem. As long as he gets rid of his credit cards (or keep one with a low limit), his situation shold be easier. 100k isn't that much IMHO. Lots of people here have to have rent loans which are around that amount. Trouble is they only allow personal loans over short periods of time these days - that's the problem and makes the repayment amounts each month very high. Depends on the bank. We're with HSBC and they have been great with us in the past when we had to do a similar thing a few years back. Sat with one of their advisors and she went through all the different monthly payment options over a number of durations until we settled on one that was good for us (3 yrs).
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 January 2012 - 11:23
Can he not get a consolidation loan, pay off and get rid of the credit cards, so he will have one monthly payment over a duration that suits him? As long as he's not in arrears, he should have a problem. As long as he gets rid of his credit cards (or keep one with a low limit), his situation shold be easier. 100k isn't that much IMHO. Lots of people here have to have rent loans which are around that amount.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 14 January 2012 - 08:24
I'm following a HE plan also and found the Union Coop in Barsha was fantastic on prices for fruit and veg. Got a big trolley load for just over 300aed. Broccoli approx 8 to 9 dirhams per kilo (29+ aed per kg in Waitrose!). Bunches of large cleaned spring onions for 2aed. Also Geant had fresh Strawberries for 5.95 and Blueberries 9.95 per punnet. They were lovely. What is annoying, when watching pennies you have to travel to several supermarkets to maximise the savings. Also, when joining a gym, why can't you pay monthly? I know Fitness First do, but with the set up fee, joining fee, admin fee, first & last month's installments on top comes to nearly 2000aed, before you've set foot on a treadmill!
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 January 2012 - 11:11
Get a jam jar, empty ashtrays into it. Fill will some water and let it ferment. When you get the craving. Undo the lid and have a good sniff of the contents. The smell will make you feel ill. Has worked well alongside patches. Friend of mine did this and he is now cigarette free for several years. Whenever he gets he craving, remembering that smell soon turns him off.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 January 2012 - 10:17
Get a Government Health Card for your children and take them to your local Government clinic for their immunisations. They will be free. That's what we do. Also consultation is only 40 aed. There are some additional immunisations you can have, which are charged, but optional.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 13 January 2012 - 10:08
She'll also have to pay PAYE and NI on her salary.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 09 January 2012 - 20:46
I used to work in the Euston Tower in London (Capital Radio). One night when a friend and myself were having a break in the downstairs offices, we experienced a horrible poltergeist experience. Weird unexplained noises, seeing 'something' lurking in the corner of your eye, things moving in front of you on their own, chills, sudden smell of decay and being touched (pushed) when nobody was near to you. It was terrifying, and both of us left the office and went outside to calm down. We both couldn't believe what we had experienced and were both reluctant to go back inside the building. It was a fear I had never felt or had since and never want to experience again. DH also used to work there and says he never experienced anything and thinks its all BS! However, one or two of the overnight DJs wouldn't do a show on their own in the studios as they had been spooked and several other DJs and colleagues had their own weird spooky encounters. The whole area (so we've been told) used to be a mass grave for victims of the Sweat/Black Death from the 13th century onwards before it was all developed. Not sure if this is true, but may explain these occurrences which also happened in Thames TV building next door (since pulled down).
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 05 January 2012 - 14:32
Didn't mention biscuits, so better just to be on the safe side. :)
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 05 January 2012 - 14:25
Well done for posting this. I've just been down there this morning to donate due to this thread. I'm A Neg, their reserves for this group are very low. Very straight forward and painless procedure. Was in and out within the hour and no I'll effects. Just told me no exercising and to drink plenty of fluids. So laying on the sofa with a cuppa, Dr's orders!
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 31 December 2011 - 00:39
Both. I haven't dealt with them personally, but have friends that have and be happy with their service. As far as I'm aware you don't need the original receipt you got when you bought the item.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 30 December 2011 - 23:49
Cara's in the Gold and Diamond Park SZR do. Ask for Kieran.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 28 December 2011 - 16:35
It might be for all Western UAE residence, however, we had family from UK with us, so just paid in one lump. Cash only.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 28 December 2011 - 16:31
We've been there a few times. Lovely place, scenery stunning. Just take your passport and UAE visa and they will issue Omani visas at the border. It's about 150 approx. per person I think. Has been a while since we last went. Just make sure your car insurance covers Oman as they may ask to see the cover note.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 December 2011 - 11:59
Thanks. Just called Spinneys in Town Centre. They have a few and are reserving a smalish one for me.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 26 December 2011 - 20:06
We went a few weeks ago. It was open, but 50AED each, waste of money. Unless you love cars, otherwise I'd give it a miss. More like an oversize garage, hardly any info on the cars and most of them nothing special IMO.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 25 December 2011 - 10:39
They had several in Spinneys Spring Town Centre last night.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 24 December 2011 - 19:13
Yes, I'm sure the rent you've paid to your LL would have covered the Service Fees, however, if he has chosen to keep that money for his/herself ang not paid, then it's the LL you need to follow up, not Nakheel. Nakheel's arrangement is not with the tenant, it's with the owner, and if they don't pay, then they do have the right to withdraw services. The fact that the owner has decided to lease out his property is not Nakheel's concern. It's basic common sense. I'm surprised several of you expect to have the right to use these facilities, if the service fees have not or ever been paid. Your landlord is in breech of contract and they should be the people you should act against as they have defrauded you out of services you have paid for as part of your rent. I would be straight down to lodge a complaint with RERA and if LL refuses to compensate me, be lodging a complaint with the Police.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 23 December 2011 - 22:26
Then that is a matter for the tenant to take up with RERA, the landlord and if necessary Police. IMHO, it's not Nakheel who is at fault, it's just unfortunate the tenant is the ones being punished. You can't expect Nakheel to keep everything maintained as expected if owners/landlords are not paying their service fees. Obviously, from what has already been mentioned, the maintenance and public areas are becoming run down and neglected. This is probably due to lack of fees being paid. It's cheaper for Nakheel to shut these areas down, than continue to run them (poorly), until overdue fees to cover running costs are paid.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 23 December 2011 - 22:03
To me, after reading all the replies, it seems the only way to resolve this is for whoever is living in these apartments, be it owner or tenant, they are solely responsibible in paying the service fees. Obviously, the rents will have to drop, but at least then tenants then have the choice, don't pay you can't use the facilities. Simples!
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 December 2011 - 23:08
We went a few days back and thought it was pretty good. Didn't go with high expectations, but was pleasantly surprised. We went at dusk, so lovely to see the light come on. The Santa wasn't that bad. He was very well 'done up' and was great with the kids. It was 35aed to take a picture with your own camera (inc a free gift, mine got cute Penguins) or 65aed using their professional camera inc gift and photo. I wouldn't say go there for gift shopping, as nothing to buy, however, had some lovely Mulled Wine and to just soaked up the atmosphere. Got some lovely photos. Felt quite festive afterwards.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 December 2011 - 13:34
DH and DS have had really bad chesty coughs for the last two weeks. DS mostly over it now. DH still suffering and now on antibiotics. A lot going around.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 December 2011 - 12:37
My daughter was also 2 when my son was born and we had the same problem. It wasn't too bad when me and DH were out together, but if wanting to take both the kids out on my own, it was really difficult. We considered the buggy board, but made it awkward to walk along with it, plus DD would get tired, so wanted to sit down, So, we decided to get a Tandem buggy. Absolute godsend, plus easier to manoeuvre around shops than a side by side one. DS was able to lay flat on the back seat as it reclines fully and DD had the best of both worlds! I'm actually selling my Tandem buggy. It's a Graco Stadium Duo in a two tone Latte colour. The front canopy and cosytoes have never been used and the buggy is in excellent condition. It folds down very easily in one piece and pretty light for a double buggy. Loads of storage space too. Here's a look/see of one identical to mine, except the colour: http://www.mothercare.com/Graco-Stadium-Duo-Tandem-Pushchair/dp/B003FUN798 If you're interested, let me know on zannie1 at mac dot com. And I'll send you more details. I'm selling for 600aed. <em>edited by Zannie on 17/12/2011</em>
 
 
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