Zannie | ExpatWoman.com
 

Zannie

Zannie
506
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EW GURU
Latest post on 12 May 2011 - 16:00
This is the website he buys most parts from: http://www.rockauto.com/ Obviously, some parts can be very heavy, so best do homework on shipping costs etc and in some cases it may not be worth it. But the majority of parts we've ever needed we've sourced through here and inc the shipping still works our much cheaper. Most orders are with us within the week too. DH has just given me two examples; we needed a new belt tensioner. Trading Enterprises quoted 800 dhs. We got it from RockAuto for about 240 dhs including Shop & Ship charges. Another time we needed a new power steering hose. Trading Enterprises would have been about 1600 dhs, we S&S'd it from RockAuto for 300 dhs all in. if it's a part you need right now to get you back on the road then you've got no real choice, you have to pay Trading Enterprises prices, but if it's a part that needs to be changed but is going to hang on for a while, then look seriously at buying online. Ordinary consumable service parts like spark plugs etc aren't worth it of course. <em>edited by Zannie on 12/05/2011</em>
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 May 2011 - 15:29
We take both our Jeeps to AAA in Al Quoz opp the back of the Gold and Diamond Park. Very good and very reasonable. The only thing that's expensive here are the parts and all Jeep parts (regardless of the garage you go to) have to be sourced though Trading Enterprises. If you need parts and know what you need (AAA can always advise you), in most cases it's much cheaper to buy from the US and have it shopped and shipped over. DH has bought many parts this way and saved us a fortune.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 May 2011 - 16:31
We've had to this several time. I usually call the Ticket Office as below and they do it all over the phone or go to the Emirates office in the Dnata building on SZR and they'll even re-issue your ticket there and then. It costs £75 per ticket to change the flight date.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 May 2011 - 09:16
Not necessary. Depends on how mature she is for her age, and only you can know that! If it was my DD, we'd get her a computer, we'd set it up in the living room (not her bedroom) so we can see easier monitor her use on it (especially when she's using the internet) and make sure all the parental filters are activated.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 09 May 2011 - 21:23
Le Meridian Mina Seyahi. It's a older hotel, but has fantastic beachside location, gardens, good size rooms. Whenever we have visitors, they always stay there and say how lovely it is.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 09 May 2011 - 20:51
Actually, Fluoride in very small doses can be beneficial to you, especially your teeth: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_fluoridation In the UK, Flouride is added to the mains water supply for this reason. I've spoken to dentists here in the UAE and they confirm they see far more children with cavities here and no flouride in water is one of the reasons. Yes, I agree it's not good for you, especially in children, as you'll notice most children's toothpastes have a much lower dose as they are more likely to swallow the toothpaste than spit it out. However, the amounts in water is very minimal, and much lower than in your standard toothpaste.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 09 May 2011 - 08:50
I had slight bleeding with my DD, and more complications with DS. Both caused by low lying placenta. In most cases the placenta moves up as the baby grows bigger, which can cause a little bit of bleeding, but nothing to worry about. This happened with DD and had no problems. I had Placenta Previa and other complications with DS, but discovered this at 30 weeks, the bleeding was regular and heavy, I had to stay in hospital for a few weeks before DS was born to be closely monitored. However doesn't sound like what your daughter is experiencing. Also, if still maintaining "marital relations' whilst pregnant, that can cause slight bleeding a day or two after as there is so much more blood vessels in that area. This is normal and as long is slight and without pain. The main thing is she is going to be checked. I know from experience, slight bleeding is normal (even like a light period), but if heavy and with clots, this maybe something more serious, but doesn't mean there is problems with the baby. she just may need further monitoring, which is no bad thing.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 May 2011 - 08:52
Traffic Police Department so the roads here can be managed much more efficiently. My DH wants a IHOP to open here! Also agree with all that's been written.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 03 May 2011 - 09:26
We've been for afternoon tea there several times and I highly recommend it. Yes, it's more expensive than many other teas around, but the best in my opinion. Afterall it's not always just about the tea, it's for for Burj experience! We've eaten both in the Skyview Bar (fantastic views) and in the 1st floor atrium. The foods is lovely and unlimited for the price, lots of choices of teas and coffees (including Lattes, Cappuccinos) on offer. Just ask them to "keep it coming". Service can be a little hit or miss, but overall good. The good thing is you can have a good look around the Burj whilst you're in there. Have had tea at the Ritz Calton and was a big disappointment.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 01 May 2011 - 10:42
It's normal procedure for this bank as it happens to us. We have a loan that should be debited on 5th of each month. However, they debit it the moment by DH's salary clears our account (which can be 28/29th of the previous month). We don't mind as as the payment needs to be made from DH's salary each month, so in some ways the quicker it comes out the better. Occasionally, the payment will be made on the 5th as arranged, but very rarely. If your loan was based on a letter from your employer/salary cert, then the bank will take what is theirs the moment your salary has cleared your account. I don't know if this is normal for other banks here. Seems stupid for them to ask you to chose a suitable day if they're going to take the money as soon as you're paid anyway.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 30 April 2011 - 09:17
Clarks shoes. although always buy them when home in UK, as so expensive here compared with UK prices. DS also has a pair of Crocs (which he loves).
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 30 April 2011 - 09:15
60K per month or per year?
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 29 April 2011 - 21:17
Have you read the notes on the official passport website? They will tell you.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 29 April 2011 - 18:08
I'm a little confused! Got an email from you (or assumed was you) on 25th. No mobile number, sent you mine and we spoke a couple of days ago. Does your name begin with a B? Hello Zannie, most likely you mean me!!! when i spoke to you my daughters were acting up I'm still in with you Yes, that's great.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 29 April 2011 - 15:57
Yes, that's what I meant. I wasn't referring to the princess part. But why can she only be queen consort? Because she was not born royalty or for another reason? The wife of a reigning king is always officially the Queen consort. It's nothing to do with birth, it's just the way it's done. All British Queens whose husbands were King were actually Queens consort, with the most recent being the late Queen Mother. To become a Queen regnant, which is what the current Queen is, you have to be next in line of succession and inherit the throne directly on the death of the previous monarch.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 29 April 2011 - 15:34
Who dressed Princess Eugene and Beatrice? Their mother? They look like their outfits are from Cinderellas two ugly sisters. Utterly dreadful! Beatrice's hat..... :\:
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 29 April 2011 - 09:51
we had 3 cheques last year, this year our LL wanted 1. We luckily agreed on two. We were finally settling in and didnt want to move The LL can't reduce the amount of cheques for a renewal. RERA's position is always that if 3 cheques were acceptable last year, they are acceptable this year. You had every right to insist on 3 again. Your LL certainly couldn't force you to move because of it.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 29 April 2011 - 09:33
You can get furnished villas and apartments here, but will be extremely expensive. Much better off getting some Ikea furniture to kit your place out or even shipping all your stuff out, when your work out what the rent will cost over a year or more. Then again if DH's company is paying your rent for a furnished place, then result!
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 29 April 2011 - 09:28
Really looking forward to it. I'm such a royalist and love UK royal history. Wish I could be home today though. Parent's are having a street party. Haven't been to one since 1977/1981 (showing my age now..LOL!).
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 29 April 2011 - 09:25
Just to add. Haven't received any other emails regarding sharing a stall. Didn't get one with your mobile no.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 29 April 2011 - 09:24
I'm a little confused! Got an email from you (or assumed was you) on 25th. No mobile number, sent you mine and we spoke a couple of days ago. Does your name begin with a B?
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 28 April 2011 - 21:10
My DD should start FS2 this September and had her name down with 2 schools from last year (which was late). Still have no place for her and have tried everywhere. If your son is starting FS2, good luck, because I'm finding it terribly difficult. The 1st choice of school I wanted have assured me she will stand a good chance of getting in for year one (2012), but nothing in the meantime. My choice is to arrange to keep her at nursery another year (if they will allow her to stay under the circumstances) or home school her until a place becomes free. I'm going to try calling around at the end of the Summer break and hope they will be a chance some of the allocated places will become free?
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 28 April 2011 - 21:05
We always get the plastic wrap on our suitcases done before we check in. Really helps protect the bags, so maybe worth doing in future. They charge about 10 AED per suitcase to do it. Good luck with your claim.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 28 April 2011 - 21:02
We're in the largest two bed (1800 Sq ft). 2 very large on-suite bathrooms and we've converted the large storage room into a third bedroom for our youngest (who's just turned 2). We also have a huge living area with an open plan big kitchen, separate utility room and 3rd toilet (a "downstairs loo" I like to call it). Building is very well maintained and we have 24 hour security here. Full of families, so lots of children around playing outside, which is lovely to hear in the evenings. Plus children's play areas with swings/slides etc. The traffic getting out of DG onto the SZR can look a lot worse than it is at peak times. Takes about 10 minutes rush-hour, but it's always moving, so doesn't take long at all. Very easy access to the Marina and JBR (my daughter goes to Jebel Ali Village Marina Nursery and takes 10 mins door to door). Plus Ibn Battuta 5 mins way. Lots of restaurants deliver here and no problem getting a cab or bus (shuttle service every 10 mins to Ibn Battuta Metro Station). As mentioned, the pools are all completed and just waiting for them to be filled up. It's quiet, no speeding cars and loud traffic noise or any construction noise (where we are). Very green, lots of birdies! We lease directly from Meeras (the developer) and highly recommend them as landlords. We've been here almost 3 years and our rent has dropped from 140K to 84k (in 12 equal monthly installments, with 13th month free!). Our air con/chiller charges are free and gas very cheap through Lootah. Also all maintenance is free and very quick. We're in the Contemporary buildings about mid way up (think these are the only ones to have 2 beds?). If you're interested, contact the company WASL, they manage the building and will be able to assist you on rent - 800 9275 (800-WASL). We're very happy here and don't plan on moving soon. Also hoping for another rent reduction too on our renewal in September! ;)
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 26 April 2011 - 15:39
Contact RERA see what they suggest and then possibly the Police. Do you have written confirmation of your LL confirming the return of your deposit as this will help.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 25 April 2011 - 12:40
I will! zannie 1 at mac dot com
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 25 April 2011 - 07:14
Pretty certain he cannot change the terms of payment, i.e. demand you now pay in one cheque when you paid in 4 the past year. He's able to increase the amount of cheques, but not reduce them. As for increasing the rent, not sure what the rent cap is for this year (if there is one), but it's more likely he should keep the rent the same or reduce it considering the economic conditions. He's obviously trying to get you out, so go to the RC get advice and if need be lodge a case. Maybe when you tell him you are lodging a case, he may back down.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 22 April 2011 - 21:34
The stall in the Ranches doesn't have flags or bunting. They have some pillows and a cute money box, but not really any decoration bits... They had a note on the stall saying they'd be getting stock in for the Royal Wedding tomorrow/Sunday. I did question the guy what exactly the stock was they we're getting. He said "don't understand Royal Wedding" followed by the blank look, even when I pointed to the sign. So no idea what they'll have, but will be worth a look in a day or so!
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 22 April 2011 - 21:31
Here is a copy and paste from a link from Aquarius Magazine on FB - sounds good! - Having some Easter fun at Benjamin Bunny’s Tea Party on Saturday, 23rd at The Palace – The Old Town. There will be chocolate egg decorating, pancake making, treasure hunts and story-telling sessions for kids, while the grown-ups can relax over afternoon tea. 3pm-6pm, Dh140 per person, kids under ten go free. Call 04-4287806. We're going to this tomorrow!
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 22 April 2011 - 21:30
We use them all the time for both our cars. Great service and very reasonable.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 22 April 2011 - 09:38
Just trying to find confirmation on the fees for renewing a UK passport. Nothing on their website unless you download the application pack (cost £15.99). On the DirectGov website it says £77.50, but I'm sure it's about £150? Or is the the price for UK citizens to pay if living outside the UK and having to send their passport to Dusseldorf? If this is the case, tempted to send all the paperwork to my parents and get them to send it to the relevant passport office in the UK if it saves me £70 or more.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 21 April 2011 - 12:59
Don't forget there huge number of crimes that are not reported, especially *** crimes and the crimes that are just not made public. If they were, I'm sure a lot of us would feel differently about how safe it is here. I don't think Dubai is *safer* from where I'm from in the UK. I've never left doors/windows unlocked (as some people do here), we always lock our car. If you give an opportunity, someday, someone may take it. As for crime in the UK, got to remember the population is much bigger and it seem most of us like to read the Daily Mail online, need I say more! To the OP, I hope the police catch the culprit soon. Did he manage to take much? <em>edited by Zannie on 21/04/2011</em>
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 April 2011 - 10:34
Personally wouldn't mention you are leaving. The bank may put a travel ban on you if they suspect you are. If it's a UK bank based in the UAE, they will be subject to laws here (though National Bank of Dubai - I think), they'll have no connection to the branches in the UK. If you leave, just make sure there is enough money to cover the mortgage each month. Once you're home, then approach them and explain. But wouldn't say anything until then, just in case.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 April 2011 - 16:07
Don't worry, have almost done that myself! Normal reaction, so don't get stressed over it.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 April 2011 - 12:57
Can't believe how expensive JK are selling them for here. Almost £20 more than Amazon. I bought one a while back for DD. She was probably too young as I ended up having to drag it along (with everything else) as she got bored of pulling it along after 10 minutes. Plus, you can't fit much in it, which is a pain. You can fit more in a kids packback and it's much easier to carry! In the end the lock broke (very easily) and wasn't able t get it fixed, so ended up binning it. They look nice though!
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 April 2011 - 08:42
Thanks Zannie.. we had a look into DG's but it seems a bit far for us as we like to stay close to Media City / Marina.. and Traffic seems kinda a pain around 6PM. But very spacious rooms there and i love how the finishing is dark brown! DH works in DMC, and TBH the traffic looks worse than it actually is. It's always moving and usually takes him about 20 minutes door to door at rush hour. However, if you have the budget for the Greens, then that would be a good option as you have the bridge straight into Knowledge Village, so journey time should be quicker.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 16 April 2011 - 23:59
The apartments in Discovery Gardens are very nice and spacious. We're very lucky to live in a building which is well maintained and have never had any issues you've mentioned. Our landlord is the developer Meeras and the building managed by Wasl. They accept monthly payment too and 13 month lease for the price of 12. Also air conditioning is included.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 April 2011 - 23:44
Check with the Rent Committee. I'm sure a landlord has to rent his place out for a minimum of 2, maybe three years? Things may have changed though. If he does manage to force you to move, he has to prove he is moving in there. If he releases the place straight away, you're entitled to compensation.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 12 April 2011 - 16:04
Googled them: http://www.primegourmet.ae/Home-Delivery/
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 April 2011 - 09:16
Looks like the wet weather is here for the week: http://news.bbc.co.uk/weather/forecast/252?&search=dubai&itemsPerPage=10&region=world
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 April 2011 - 09:13
Not too mad Marina end. Did a round trip from DG to the Greens and back via SZR and absolutely fine. Few puddles on the side roads, but nothing to worry about.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 April 2011 - 09:10
I'm in DG, still bright, but when dropping DD off at camp earlier, seriously black clouds rolling in from the sea, so hopefully will be expecting a belter of a storm!!
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 April 2011 - 09:08
We live in building 120. We're not close to any shops, so need a car/bus to get there, but we really like it here. As Cyclone mentions, plenty of buses to and from the metro and Ibn Battuta. Also lots of taxis. Our building is owned by Meeras (the developer) and managed by Wasl. They are very good and the building is always clean and well maintained. Plus very swift service (with no cost to us) if we have any maintenance issues in our apartment. it really depends on who the owner is as to what service you'll get. They also offer monthly payment and one month extra free (13 month lease for the price of 12). We're currently paying 84K for the largest 2 bed, but hoping to get a reduction (again, it's come down from 140k when we first moved here) when we renew our lease in September. Plus our aircon is free through Meeras, so one big monthly expense not to worry about. Not sure if free for tenants in all buildings?? Give Meeras a call and ask to speak to their DG person. We have 24 hour security, and very family friendly area. The traffic out of DG to SZR can be heavy, but it moves quickly, so looks worse than it is. Just got back got from Regent school in the Greens, it took 30 mins round trip in rush hour, so not bad!
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 April 2011 - 16:47
Not dark at all over DG, just hazy. Looking forward to the rain *if* it does come.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 April 2011 - 16:45
Personally, I think it's a rip off to charge such a large joining fee and then 40 AED+ an hour. It's a lovely place and both my LO's were signed up to their memberships, but heard the joining fee is 600AED+??? (which is nearly double on a year or 2 ago). Could be wrong, just what I've been told.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 April 2011 - 16:42
Thanks for that. We're very lucky we've got a good deal and 13 month lease for the price of 12 in monthly cheques. Just wondered if any other places, such as JLT or elsewhere were going similar deals?
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 April 2011 - 16:06
I'm interested to know what 85K will get you at the moment (in monthly/12 cheques)? We're paying 84k in DG for the largest apartment. We like it here and not planning to move, however, would be interested what else is out there, maybe we'll change our minds when our lease is up in September. Mirdiff or that end of town is too far out. Would need to be New Dubai end or central.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 April 2011 - 07:20
My two year old DS is an Alexander or Alex. IF he'd been a girl, he would have been an Alexa. Nice name for either boy/girl.
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 09 April 2011 - 20:51
Never seen any here TBH. You may have to shop and ship: http://www.childrenspartyshop.co.uk/Partyware/Fast-Fire-Engine-/293-Fire-Engine-Fun-Party-Bag-Puzzles.html
Zannie
506
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 09 April 2011 - 20:46
Have both. We also have a Madeleine, and although we both were 100% on that name, we bickered over the middle names. We originally agreed on Elizabeth as this is my middle name, but I always loved Rose or Rosie (our surname begins with an R, so DH wasn't keen). In the end, all three names sounded lovely together, Madeleine Elizabeth Rose, so that is now her name!
 
 
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