zoco | ExpatWoman.com
 

zoco

zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 August 2013 - 11:36
It [i'>is [/i'> amazing! I've been using cakebox for a couple of years now - really friendly lady who owns it, she's super helpful and very knowledgeable as she's a cake decorator herself :-) She has loads of bits and bobs you can't get anywhere else in Dubai and will try and order anything you want that she doesn't have. Happy baking!
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 August 2013 - 09:49
What about Turkey - you could head to Istanbul (FlyDubai or pegasus for cheap flights)for a week, there's plenty to see including some out of the way things you'd have time for like Princes Island. Then head to a beach resort for a week for relaxation and plenty of Turkish baths and good food :) Or Nepal - you can fly to Kathmandu with FlyDubai, there's cheap golfing, spas, yoga retreats and you can do some beautiful trekking too. Fly Dubai also fly to Romania - cheap way to do a 'European' vacation, gorgeous scenery, mountains, lakes, beaches, skiing. HTH, have a great vacation where ever you decide to go!
zoco
162
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 August 2013 - 08:14
I have it on channel 58 too, seems to be fine... guess you're going to have to run the gauntlet of 'customer service' :( Good Luck!
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 31 July 2013 - 13:33
You can't freeze ready to roll icing as it 'sweats' when chilled, however, it does keep forever due to the high sugar content so if you think you'll use it within the next year or 2 you should be fine :) HTH
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 July 2013 - 22:25
5 times in 10 years and I never want to move again! For some reason we always seem to move in summer which makes the whole experience worse :( On the plus side i have lived all over old and new Dubai and it's rare for me not to know where anyplace in Dubai is :)
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 June 2013 - 10:17
Hi MQ, There are 3 well known clinics in Dubai - Fakih IVF, Bourne Hall (both in Jumeirah 1) and DGFC (in Healthcare City I believe). On the Dubai side of Sharjah there are also Concieve and New Hope . I believe there is also a lady Dr practising out of the clinic in Dubai Mall (sorry I can't remember her name but maybe one of the other ladies on here will enlighten you or maybe do a quick search) who does the retrievals/transfers in Sharjah but all the other stuff here in Dubai. I would recommend you google all of them, have initial consults with as many as possible and then go from there. One thing I learnt very early on is that on this undignified emotional rollercoaster of a journey you need to be comfortable with your Dr and surroundings as much as possible as well as with the standard of care offered. HTH - any further questions don't hesitate to ask! Good luck! X
zoco
162
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 June 2013 - 11:13
HI ladies, I find plain old E45 cream works well on mine - you can get it from any pharmacy here :-)
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 June 2013 - 14:36
I always use worldnomads.com - have found them competitive and super easy to arrange online - I think they're underwritten by BUPA but you can check all the details on the website.
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 June 2013 - 14:57
The Royal Buddha - Thai brunch at the Holiday Inn in Barsha, Dhs 95pp. Haven't been yet but I've heard the food is amazing! Only soft drinks included but that's not bad for that price :)
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 31 May 2013 - 13:27
[color=#6600FF'>St Ives Oat and Shea Butter Lotion [/color'>- it's really good for dry skin but somehow sinks in super fast and doesn't feel sticky or greasy. After 10 years here looking for a moisturiser that doesn't feel 'icky' in the summer heat I found this last year and have stuck with it since - love it! Bonus - it's cheap and cheerful compared to many brands and is available in C4, Spinneys etc....
zoco
162
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 May 2013 - 12:58
Dear Biba jani, I'm so sorry you're feeling so stressed about your upcoming treatment, I know it's easier said than done but do try to relax as much as you can. I am personally not a fan of Fakih clinic at all but if you have decided to do your treatment there do try to trust in them and their abilities and not to worry too much. I know plenty of people who have had successful cycles there. Unfortunately they are not good at responding to calls/emails etc but they do seem to respond 'just in time' - when they want your money ;) Don't waste your energy worrying about you can't change and focus on keeping yourself healthy and positive :) Wishing you all the best for your cycle - baby dust to you x
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 May 2013 - 10:23
Thanks so much Ecochic! I tried these in the shower this morning... I have luscious looking locks as I write! :)
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 May 2013 - 11:53
GMKSME/Ecochic, would you share your 'shampoo/body wash' recipes if you don't mind? I'm so interested in doing this, have found many online recipes but there are so many it's pretty confusing :( I would love to know of a recipe that is tried and tested!
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 May 2013 - 19:20
Boxes full of cardboard toilet rolls, old boxes, lollipop sticks - I was a teacher for less than 2 years more than 10 years ago and can't bear the thought that they may be useful one day!! :)
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 May 2013 - 21:56
TDB and Sammy, Just wanted to add that Elle's husband did our interfaith (Christian/Muslim) wedding blessing a few years back and we couldn't have been happier. He took the time to sit down with us long before the event to talk through what we wanted and propose a structure. The ceremony was the most beautiful part of the day (and in our case, Christian enough for me and my family and ambiguous enough not to offend anyone else!). I can highly and wholeheartedly recommend him. Wishing you both, long and blessed marriages xx
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 May 2013 - 15:28
Try www.create.net I've been using this site for a couple of years, very happy with their service, support and ease of use (I'm a complete computer klutz!).
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 May 2013 - 12:28
Oh KittyKat, I really feel for you. As you said it's such a personal thing but so overwhelming too. Can I suggest you make an appointment to see either or your GP or, if you feel up to it, a fertility Dr to get some basic blood tests done. Just with the basic tests you will be able to find out what your hormone levels are like and whether you are ovulating or not. Don't fret, there's plenty that can be done even if everything's not quite as it should be, starting with basic over the counter pills and supplements but the earlier you find out (and start taking action if it's needed) the earlier this will happen for you! I know it's easy to say but stay strong and believe in yourself.... and make a Dr's appointment :-) Big hugs xxx
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 May 2013 - 20:51
Totally agree Irooni, I've tried a number of low sodium salts and always found them to have a revolting aftertaste :(
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 April 2013 - 23:26
Big hugs to you Dorisdaydream! I feel your sadness just from your words :( We too are in a similar situation (TTC/IVF) though our circumstances are different so I'm afraid I cannot comment or advise on the procedures you mentioned. I can, however, suggest you get in touch with a lovely lady at [email protected] who has recently set up an informal IVF support group in Dubai. Although we're not meeting again for another few weeks she will add you to the email conversation and you can pose your questions there. I know for a fact there are ladies who have been through very similar experiences to yours and who will be happy to help with plenty of information. My very best to you... stay strong, it's a rough ride but there are plenty of sunny days ahead, not just the ones that feel like the end of the world XOXOX
zoco
162
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 April 2013 - 15:55
What a lovely sentiment Jules113! Unfortunately it is not allowed here in the UAE (nor are male 'donations' or surrogacy). Women have to travel outside the UAE to undergo any fertility treatment with donor eggs.
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 April 2013 - 09:41
Try worldnomads.com. Not sure if they'll do it but that's who I usually use and it takes just minutes online. They're underwritten by BUPA in Denmark and have ever had a problem with them. Good luck!
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 April 2013 - 09:46
Thunder and lightning like nothing on earth over here in Al Waha! :-/
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 March 2013 - 18:44
SarahLou and It'sonlyme - what great memories you brought back! I also remember Knowsley Safari Park and Manchester Science Museum - still have a magnet at home on my Mum's fridge!! :)
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 March 2013 - 18:26
Interesting article on this topic on the Guardian website today... the article doesn't really offer any solutions but some of the comments do :) [url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2013/mar/17/make-my-children-take-more-exercise'>link[/url'>
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 March 2013 - 18:24
I second Cafe Lilou (lovely breakfasts, lunches, coffees etc) and their sister restaurant Zoe's (nice place for dinner. Trader Vic's at the Ritz Carlton also a lovely place for drinks, snacks etc in the evening. There is a 'the Tree of Life' in the middle of the desert - hotel should be able to give you directions though be warned, it is what is says on the box - a tree in the middle of the desert, that's it! There's also a lovely fish restaurant at the Marine Club if you like seafood :)
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 March 2013 - 22:00
Hi KIwisavvy, I posted this on a thread a while back but it really was SUCH a good holiday I wanted to recommend it again to you (but was feeling too lazy to type it all out again!) They have a nice website so you can have a look and see if it might be something that suits you.... xxx We had our favourite holiday to date in Koh Samui about 6/7 years ago. I can whole heartedly recommend the Pavillion Boutique resort (www.pavillionsamui.com) - lovely rooms (plenty of pool rooms/villas available and plenty of special offers too), fab friendly staff, amazing breakfasts, beautiful beach and pool and a very personal feel not a huge resort style place. We went down to one of the fancy hotels (can't remember which now, sorry) for a Royal Thai meal one evening which was an amazing experience for any foodie. We visited the big buddha temple and took a Thai cooking course. A couple of evenings we took a cab up to Lamai beach and had some very casual dinners and walked around the shops and market but mostly we just lazed about and had a great time! I couldn't recommend the place more highly but wherever you go I'm sure you'll love it, Thailand is a fantastic place full of lovely people and amazing sights and tastes. Enjoy! X
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 March 2013 - 21:24
Amazon Canada voucher so they ca get something they need when they get there? Someone got us the same for our wedding, was lovely to do a little guilt free shopping after the big day :)
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 March 2013 - 21:21
I've had mine done a couple of times by a South African lady, Belinda Siosteen, and been very happy with the results... and her listening skills :) (I asked for a natural look for my wedding trial with someone else before I found Belinda and looked like anything but!!) You can reach her on 050 4640817.
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 March 2013 - 12:40
Hi Buttercup, I haven't anything useful to add I'm afraid and can't even begin to imagine how you're feeling. Just wanted to wish you good luck for tomorrow, and to let you know that I'm thinking of you (after almost 500 hits I think it's safe to say I'm not the only one) and am praying for you, your sister and your family. Big hugs xx
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 March 2013 - 16:46
Hi Marsbar, I got ours for the second time a couple of months ago. Depends on the time of day/ day of the week I think as to wait times, first time waited about 2 mins, second time waited over an hour but only a few minutes when I went to pick them up! Our visas were processed within 24-48 hours, and despite DH paying for the express service for his visa they were both ready at the same time so I'd advise you not to bother with that! All in all it was a relatively easy process tho :)
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 March 2013 - 13:50
Hi BEG, Try 'Acoustic Rain for your wedding. We heard them at a big street party a few months ago and had a great time, fab tunes that suited everyone - loads of people up dancing all night! I recommend them simply because I remember telling DH that had we known about them when we got married I would definitely have had these guys at our wedding! :) I think they're fairly new so you might be able to get a pretty good deal too. I know they have a FB page, not sure of the exact link but I guess if you just search under Acoustic Rain they should come up.... HTH
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 February 2013 - 10:14
I've had similar issues in the past - if you're getting no replies from people one thing you can do is arm yourself with snacks and a book and go down to the office and refuse to move until someone sorts it out. Not a very nice tactic, I know, but it stops them from putting your issues on a 'to do later' list. Good luck!
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 February 2013 - 12:27
Hi GA, I just wrote a whole long reply and managed to delete it instead of posting it! So apologies if this time round it's a bit basic, got to go out shortly... We had our favourite holiday to date in Koh Samui about 6/7 years ago. I can whole heartedly recommend the Pavillion Boutique resort (www.pavillionsamui.com) - lovely rooms (plenty of pool rooms/villas available and plenty of special offers too), fab friendly staff, amazing breakfasts, beautiful beach and pool and a very personal feel not a huge resort style place. We went down to one of the fancy hotels (can't remember which now, sorry) for a Royal Thai meal one evening which was an amazing experience for any foodie. We visited the big buddha temple and took a Thai cooking course. A couple of evenings we took a cab up to Lamai beach and had some very casual dinners and walked around the shops and market but mostly we just lazed about and had a great time! I couldn't recommend the place more highly but wherever you go I'm sure you'll love it, Thailand is a fantastic place full of lovely people and amazing sights and tastes. Enjoy! X
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 February 2013 - 11:32
Hi Gouldian, At present they only go up to grade 9 but every year or 2 they are opening higher years as they grow so depending on which of your children needs the support it may still be feasible for you. However Amy's list is a great one and I would follow up on that as I have no affiliation to Mirdif Private and don't know much about it TBH - just visited once but was impressed. Best of luck in your search!
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 February 2013 - 09:57
Try Mirdif Private School. Added bonus they are a bilingual school :-)
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 February 2013 - 16:00
I got a nice one from the big home store in ibn battuta (sorry, I can't remember the name but I think it's home centre or homes r us). It's a german made brand, various patterns, there are big rolls by the entrance/exit and you just pay per metre/foot. I remember paying about dhs 150 for mine (6 seater table).
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 February 2013 - 08:37
My Indian half of the family used to peddle the same story! :-) So when we were there we'd never be allowed to have fish and dairy together but my English grandmother used to almost religiously prepare fish in a creamy white sauce (it was one of the few things my sister would eat) for us week in week out. The other one that always amuses me is that if you have a cold or a sore throat you shouldn't have anything cold or any dairy products. In the UK we would quite happily consume copious amounts of ice cream for sore throats and cold custard/rice pudding was a treat reserved for feeling ill :) 34 years on I don't seem to have come to any harm from either!
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 February 2013 - 18:40
Thanks! :)
zoco
162
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 February 2013 - 17:54
You can just get the visa on arrival at the immigration desk. It is 20 JD/Euro pp and you need cash. There is a cash machine and an exchange before the queue begins in Amman airport but better if you bring the cash with you, you can beat the queue a little :-) Not sure about how many pages are necessary but as far as I'm aware you don't need whole pages, they just put a stamp and mine are all over the place and on pages that have been previously used by other nations.
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 February 2013 - 18:05
Try www.jellybean.ae for really good quality party bags. The lady who runs this does customized party bags with decent gifts (ie watches/drinks bottles/backpacks/colouring sets etc), for a really reasonable price. She will customize for you based on the child's age, interests, theme of the party and your budget. I'm always grateful not to have bags filled with sugar and toys that fall apart in 5 mins! ;)
zoco
162
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 February 2013 - 15:49
Loads of options along JBR's The Walk (and now they've opened the new car park it's a much better prospect!). I'd highly recommend PQ and Paul's and if you want something a bit more regional there's a fab new place called Simsim's opened - they have beautiful fresh arabic breakfast options. Tried IHOP last week - worst breakfast we've ever had! :(
zoco
162
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 February 2013 - 15:44
I heard rumours there are aqua classes there (aerobics and swim style) - anyone know if this is true and if so who to contact? Thanks!
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 February 2013 - 15:42
The Address Marina and the Address Downtown both have serviced apartments. Nuran in Al Murjan towers next to the Yacht club on the Marina and Nuran in the Greens are also pretty decent options depending on the location you want to be in. Good luck!
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 February 2013 - 15:38
Not a very fancy option but NEXT have a new range of "sexy high waist jeans" - supposedly they do wonders for your bum and tum! ;)
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 December 2012 - 12:45
This year we're doing magazine subscriptions for Mum and Dad as well as vouchers for all of us to go to a fancy afternoon tea in the Lakes for family day out as it's the first time in 8 years we will all be together in the UK. My sis is getting a glue gun (don't ask!), Nespresso accessories and a few bits and bobs. Stuck with DH though :-( Needs to be something small size wise as we'll have to carry it to the UK and back (and our suitcases are going to be full on the way back with all my supermarket goodies!) Any ideas welcome....
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 December 2012 - 21:36
I saw organic essential oils and base oil in Neal's Yard in Wafi yesterday :)
zoco
162
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 26 November 2012 - 19:09
I use a recipe with prunes - sounds weird but you can't taste them and they come out sooooo soft and fudgy (plus they use a lot less fat and sugar so they're healthy....ish!). Need to find the recipe in my mountains of recipes but try googling low fat prune brownies meanwhile - I promise it's worth it! Mmmm, salivating just thinking about them..... :)
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 26 November 2012 - 19:01
I agree, such a shame when you were so excited but I think this is a big fat warning sign to you! :( There will be other jobs and more scrupulous people who don't take you for a ride, good luck!
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 26 November 2012 - 17:41
Hi ladies, Somewhat late in the day, I've rashly promised one and all that I would make our Christmas cake this year! Now I need to find ingredients quick smart :-( Does anyone know where I can buy candied mixed peel (and/or mixed dried fruits) in Dubai? TIA
zoco
162
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 November 2012 - 16:33
There's a number of varieties in Spinneys :-)
 
 
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