When I first read the line "conscious uncoupling" from some celebrity news, I took the words literally and questioned myself do some couples who undergo divorce were unconscious when they did it? Then I searched for the real meaning so as not to appear blank. As one blog says it is the A "conscious uncoupling is the ability to understand that every
irritation and argument [within a marriage] was a signal to look inside
ourselves and identify a negative internal object that needed healing,"
they write. "From this perspective, there are no bad guys, just two
people," they say, expanding on the blame-free, "it's about people as
individuals, not just the relationship" theory......
Maybe its not just between two people. Maybe this could also apply to a person and a place? However it will not work out very well as the city might not give me the necessary feedback I need.
But, anyway, I'll just think about it the same way. Over the span of 5 years, Abu Dhabi and I have that yo-yo relationship. I love how Abu Dhabi have blossomed into a metropolis of culture and innovation. It easily adapted to the fast pace of modernization but still cling to what is true to their culture. It is just plain beautiful. Abu Dhabi has taught me a lot of things. For that I will be forever thankful.
Leaving a place after taking root for almost 5 years is difficult. Not just physically but emotionally. The physical part takes a lot of stressful time. If you have rented your own place like a studio type accommodation, you have to get rid of everything that you can't take with you to another country. Or you can send it to your home country so somebody else can use it. Aside from selling and giving away your stuff you have to cut all your ties in that country. From utility bills, credit cards, bank accounts and sadly friendships. Not that you will be rid of those people once you leave the country. But no more impromptu dates.
----- cut ---- (I have moved my blog to this link. See you there!)
I was not able to finish this entry because I was already swamped with so many things to do. Now here I am in my jammies 12:15 pm and still thinking if I could still say I love rainy days. I am cooped up here in our new home in Australia still trying to adjust with the cool weather. It has been raining for two days. I love rain. Always have been especially when I was in Abu Dhabi when it rarely visits the city. Now, here in Sydney, rain often comes uninvited and unexpected. I don't know how long I could say I love rainy days.
From time to time, I still think about my life in Abu Dhabi. I miss some of the things we used to do there. The places we visit, the food we stuffed ourselves and the people we see from time to time. It was a good 5 years. Abu Dhabi was home for me and my husband, but some things just have to change. Change can sometimes be very terrifying especially if you don't know what's happening next. But it can also bring you to something better.
Abu Dhabi is a good country to earn a living, save up some money or send money to your love ones. But it has an ending. You don't see yourself staying there for the rest of your life because you just can't. I mean, the reason you can stay and work there is because of your working visa or your husband's working visa. If one of you or you don't have that kind of visa you can't live there. They don't grant permanent residency or citizenship. Please don't take this the wrong way. This is just my opinion and this is one of the reasons why we moved. We can continue living and working there but until when? Its one of those issues every couple must face in making a decision for the family.
No need to continue this torturous entry. I think Its too confusing. I'm lucky if somebody reads this. But I promise though, the next entries will be my first experiences in my life here in our new home Australia.
To start my life in Australia - here is my post..
Showing posts with label Abu Dhabi. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Abu Dhabi. Show all posts
Friday, September 25, 2015
Thursday, January 8, 2015
Dental Care in Abu Dhabi
January 2015 is certainly a month full of actions. And I must say it is a mixture of excitement and uncertainty. First week of the year started with a little spike of sugar and spice and everything ended up being nice. Anyway, I had my first tooth extraction yesterday. Yes, you have read it right, first. After finally reaching the age beyond the calendar days, it was time for me to experience what my brother usually calls it a traumatic affair on a chair.
I was never afraid of dentists. Back then, my monthly visits to this doctors only consists of cleaning and little check up then an ice cream treat. Most of my melt teeth just voluntarily fell off or on special occasion my Tatay will tie a thread around the wobbly tooth and give it a quick thug and its off. No injections and other steel instruments that entered my mouth. Until yesterday. I guess I could say now I know how my brother feels when he is reminded about his dental appointment.
The day of extraction started out in a haze. Did my usual morning routine then I'm off to the city. The first hitch was the bus was probably stuck somewhere unknown because I was standing at the bus station for nearly half an hour! I kept on checking my watch while on the bus, my appointment was 10:15 am and by 10:10 am I am still inside the bus. Grrr. When I finally alighted, I have to sprint (gracefully) to the clinic. I arrived at exactly 10:20 am so it was immediately my turn to sit on that dreadful chair. A quick chat with the dentist and my complain I was immediately told to open my mouth for the 4 or 5 injections. Whoa! No gel? Yes, no numbing gel. Then some time to let the anesthesia work its magic while my heart was racing like a bullet train and I was wringing my fingers but trying to appear unconcern about the whole situation. The assisting nurse noticed and began comforting me. I must have probably looked so terribly because they (the nurse and the dentist) were trying to cheer me up they even gave me a cup of pineapple juice to calm my nerves. My hands were so cold. After a lengthy speech of comfort about the extraction not being to painful it was time to brace my head and open my mouth. Everything happened quickly though, it was not as painful as I have anticipated but still it hurts. I cried a little (hey, it was my first time I have that excuse).
The deed was done no less than 10 minutes. A prescription and a receipt later, I was already walking towards the bus station again. I wanted to curl up and sleep and forget how everything happened. But, I have to be practical went home prepared lunch so I could take the antibiotic prescribed. Ending, I'm now officially pangag (toothless), but you won't know it.
For those needing dental care as we know that most medical insurance in Abu Dhabi doesn't cover dental here are some two Filipino dentists for your information:
Dr. Eriberto L. Alameda Jr.
Al Dana Medical and Dental Centre
Tel. No. 02 678 1331; 02 672 4052
P.O. Box 26156, Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates
(the clinic is on the second level of the Philippine House building along Najda St.,)
Costs:
Tooth Extraction: AED 400
Wisdom Tooth Extraction: AED 1000
Root Canal: AED 1400
Filling: AED 250
Dr. Emmy
Ibn Sina Medical CentreTel : 02 6816400 Fax : 02 6816404
P.O.Box 3084
New Al Manara Pharmacy Building
Zayed 2nd St. Khalidiya, Abu Dhabi, U.A.E
Costs:
Tooth Extraction: AED 500
Filling: AED 350
Wisdom Tooth Extraction: AED 1000
Also here is another dentist, though haven't tried seems to cost reasonably
Appolonia Dental Centre
Tel: +971 2 6444220 ; +971 2 6660997 Fax: +971 2 6672235
P.O. Box 25744, Abu Dhabi, Zayed 2nd St., UAE Khalidya Area
Email: info@appoloniadc.com
(the clinic is in the building of K.M. Trading Khalidiya)
Costs:
Tooth Extraction: AED 350
Wisdom Tooth Extraction: AED 1000
 |
| pic grab from net |
I was never afraid of dentists. Back then, my monthly visits to this doctors only consists of cleaning and little check up then an ice cream treat. Most of my melt teeth just voluntarily fell off or on special occasion my Tatay will tie a thread around the wobbly tooth and give it a quick thug and its off. No injections and other steel instruments that entered my mouth. Until yesterday. I guess I could say now I know how my brother feels when he is reminded about his dental appointment.
The day of extraction started out in a haze. Did my usual morning routine then I'm off to the city. The first hitch was the bus was probably stuck somewhere unknown because I was standing at the bus station for nearly half an hour! I kept on checking my watch while on the bus, my appointment was 10:15 am and by 10:10 am I am still inside the bus. Grrr. When I finally alighted, I have to sprint (gracefully) to the clinic. I arrived at exactly 10:20 am so it was immediately my turn to sit on that dreadful chair. A quick chat with the dentist and my complain I was immediately told to open my mouth for the 4 or 5 injections. Whoa! No gel? Yes, no numbing gel. Then some time to let the anesthesia work its magic while my heart was racing like a bullet train and I was wringing my fingers but trying to appear unconcern about the whole situation. The assisting nurse noticed and began comforting me. I must have probably looked so terribly because they (the nurse and the dentist) were trying to cheer me up they even gave me a cup of pineapple juice to calm my nerves. My hands were so cold. After a lengthy speech of comfort about the extraction not being to painful it was time to brace my head and open my mouth. Everything happened quickly though, it was not as painful as I have anticipated but still it hurts. I cried a little (hey, it was my first time I have that excuse).
The deed was done no less than 10 minutes. A prescription and a receipt later, I was already walking towards the bus station again. I wanted to curl up and sleep and forget how everything happened. But, I have to be practical went home prepared lunch so I could take the antibiotic prescribed. Ending, I'm now officially pangag (toothless), but you won't know it.
For those needing dental care as we know that most medical insurance in Abu Dhabi doesn't cover dental here are some two Filipino dentists for your information:
Dr. Eriberto L. Alameda Jr.
Al Dana Medical and Dental Centre
Tel. No. 02 678 1331; 02 672 4052
P.O. Box 26156, Abu Dhabi United Arab Emirates
(the clinic is on the second level of the Philippine House building along Najda St.,)
Costs:
Tooth Extraction: AED 400
Wisdom Tooth Extraction: AED 1000
Root Canal: AED 1400
Filling: AED 250
Dr. Emmy
Ibn Sina Medical CentreTel : 02 6816400 Fax : 02 6816404
P.O.Box 3084
New Al Manara Pharmacy Building
Zayed 2nd St. Khalidiya, Abu Dhabi, U.A.E
Costs:
Tooth Extraction: AED 500
Filling: AED 350
Wisdom Tooth Extraction: AED 1000
Also here is another dentist, though haven't tried seems to cost reasonably
Appolonia Dental Centre
Tel: +971 2 6444220 ; +971 2 6660997 Fax: +971 2 6672235
P.O. Box 25744, Abu Dhabi, Zayed 2nd St., UAE Khalidya Area
Email: info@appoloniadc.com
(the clinic is in the building of K.M. Trading Khalidiya)
Costs:
Tooth Extraction: AED 350
Wisdom Tooth Extraction: AED 1000
Friday, January 2, 2015
Abu Dhabi Bus Guide
Being in Abu Dhabi for over four years now still doesn't make me a good commuter. I could still get on the wrong bus. What's worst is, I even advice other passengers on what bus to take to where ever they are going. Imagine the fate of those people. If only I could control myself from giving out unsolicited advices on bus routes.
Anyway, below are bus numbers and buildings and establishments that I am PRETTY SURE will be part of their respective route.
Buses that pass along Hamdan Street:
These buses were the first buses I have taken when I first came here in Abu Dhabi. I had some adventures with these buses. Here's to hoping that a few of us will no longer get lost.
Bus No. 5 - Along Hamdan Street, If you need to to Central Souk, Hamdan Center, Al Noor Hospital, Ahlia Hospital, Spinneys Corniche, Corniche and Marina Mall
Bus No. 8 - only a part of Hamdan Street, turns to Madinat Zayed where Taza is located, Lifeline Hospital then Electra Street. It will go straight to Khalidiya area turns left of Shining Tower and Khalidiya Mall.
Bus No. 54 - along Hamdan Street, Central Souk then turns to Airport Road. This bus will pass through Al Wahda Mall and go straight to Muroor behind Mushrif Mall. If you need to go to Dusit Thani Hotel and Abu Dhabi bus station this is the bus number.
Bus No. 11 - it will pass along Passport road (if I am correct) this is the street where Al Wahda mall is located. It will also go to Spinneys Corniche, Corniche and Marina Mall.
Bus No. 34 - Along Muroor road, Al Wahda Mall, Abu Dhabi bus station, Dusit Thani Hotel
Bus No. 44 - this bus will pass by a potion of Muroor road and after Police College will turn towards Airport road and will pass by Mushriff mall then Karama St., (if you need to go to CosmeSurge clinic this is the bus). It will also pass by Electra Street.
Bus No. 56 - Muroor Road, Dusit Thani Hotel, Abu Dhabi Bus Station and Al Wahda Mall
That's it for now. I hope this helps though. If not you can't go wrong if you ask the driver if it passes through the establishment you are going or fellow passengers. Just make sure its not me though. *wink*
Anyway, below are bus numbers and buildings and establishments that I am PRETTY SURE will be part of their respective route.
Buses that pass along Hamdan Street:
These buses were the first buses I have taken when I first came here in Abu Dhabi. I had some adventures with these buses. Here's to hoping that a few of us will no longer get lost.
Bus No. 5 - Along Hamdan Street, If you need to to Central Souk, Hamdan Center, Al Noor Hospital, Ahlia Hospital, Spinneys Corniche, Corniche and Marina Mall
Bus No. 8 - only a part of Hamdan Street, turns to Madinat Zayed where Taza is located, Lifeline Hospital then Electra Street. It will go straight to Khalidiya area turns left of Shining Tower and Khalidiya Mall.
Bus No. 54 - along Hamdan Street, Central Souk then turns to Airport Road. This bus will pass through Al Wahda Mall and go straight to Muroor behind Mushrif Mall. If you need to go to Dusit Thani Hotel and Abu Dhabi bus station this is the bus number.
Bus No. 11 - it will pass along Passport road (if I am correct) this is the street where Al Wahda mall is located. It will also go to Spinneys Corniche, Corniche and Marina Mall.
Bus No. 34 - Along Muroor road, Al Wahda Mall, Abu Dhabi bus station, Dusit Thani Hotel
Bus No. 44 - this bus will pass by a potion of Muroor road and after Police College will turn towards Airport road and will pass by Mushriff mall then Karama St., (if you need to go to CosmeSurge clinic this is the bus). It will also pass by Electra Street.
Bus No. 56 - Muroor Road, Dusit Thani Hotel, Abu Dhabi Bus Station and Al Wahda Mall
That's it for now. I hope this helps though. If not you can't go wrong if you ask the driver if it passes through the establishment you are going or fellow passengers. Just make sure its not me though. *wink*
Monday, May 5, 2014
The Life-In-Abu-Dhabi Calculator: Chapter 4 - Food and Grocery
Once you have settled in to your little comfort zone. Next to consider is how to feed your tummy. We don't want to forget that. Food is the most basic necessity of every living and breathing entity.
If you are the cooking type, it will help you save a lot in your daily expenditures. Most Filipino opt to cook as ingredients are cheaper and almost everything is available. If you are just renting a bed space some landlords/caretaker lend their cooking utensils to the renters. The thing is you have to wait for your turn if in case one tenant is using it. So if you have extra cash buy yourself a small rice cooker, a small sauce pan and a frying pan.
Some of the things you would also be needing are spoon and fork, a mug, some bed sheets, blanket and pillow case. There are some bed space that only provide mattress so you need to buy a pillow too. Before using the provided mattress check with bed bugs. It is a must. Before I came here I didn't know what bed bugs were (don't judge!). So my first week, my legs were full of red blotches. I thought it was just allergy, turned out I was feeding a huge population of bed bugs on our new mattress!! The mattress was new but the place we rented was just full of bed bugs. I guess they were there first before we did. We have actually invaded their space.
So where to buy these stuff?
Abu Dhabi is full of grocery stores and supermarkets. So you can choose where ever you want to buy your groceries from. For specialty stores there are some small grocery shops that sell ethnic ingredients. For Filipino ingredients the go to place is the Green House and Queen Saba. There are two Green House stores in the city one is corner of Najda St., and Electra St and one is along the old airport road. The Queen Saba store is in Tourist Club Area behind Al Salama Hospital.
Before we used to have a flatmate who is from Kazakhstan and she usually cooks her native dishes over the weekend. Ingredients were particularly difficult to find in local groceries and she told me, she got it from a store near Russian Embassy. I don't know the name of the store, so if you are looking for some Russian ingredients or cooked meals have a little tour around Russian Embassy area in Hamdan.
For Chinese ingredients, there is a Chinese store along Salam St., They have almost everything you need when you want to make your own "shabu-shabu" at home. For Indian ingredients most of it are readily available in big supermarkets. It is the same for Thai but a wider range of spices and sauces are available in Choitram.
So how much are you going to allot for the necessities? Here are some of the prices of grocery stuff as of 24 April 2014:
Small rice cooker - price starts at AED 49 and up, depending on the size and brand.
Sauce pan - price starts at AED 15 and up
Frying pan - price starts at AED 15 and up
bed sheet - price starts at AED 10 and up, depending on the size
blanket - price starts at AED 10 and up, depending on the size
pillow - price starts at AED 15
Jasmine rice - AED 27.00
egg - AED 3.75 for 6 pieces pack
milk - AED 4.50 for tetrapak and AED 5.50 for bottled fresh milk
cooking oil - AED 6.50
coffee - AED 15.90 for Nescafe three in one box of 28 pieces
chicken - AED 9.00 for whole frozen chicken 800-1000 grams a piece.
If you are the cooking type, it will help you save a lot in your daily expenditures. Most Filipino opt to cook as ingredients are cheaper and almost everything is available. If you are just renting a bed space some landlords/caretaker lend their cooking utensils to the renters. The thing is you have to wait for your turn if in case one tenant is using it. So if you have extra cash buy yourself a small rice cooker, a small sauce pan and a frying pan.
Some of the things you would also be needing are spoon and fork, a mug, some bed sheets, blanket and pillow case. There are some bed space that only provide mattress so you need to buy a pillow too. Before using the provided mattress check with bed bugs. It is a must. Before I came here I didn't know what bed bugs were (don't judge!). So my first week, my legs were full of red blotches. I thought it was just allergy, turned out I was feeding a huge population of bed bugs on our new mattress!! The mattress was new but the place we rented was just full of bed bugs. I guess they were there first before we did. We have actually invaded their space.
So where to buy these stuff?
Abu Dhabi is full of grocery stores and supermarkets. So you can choose where ever you want to buy your groceries from. For specialty stores there are some small grocery shops that sell ethnic ingredients. For Filipino ingredients the go to place is the Green House and Queen Saba. There are two Green House stores in the city one is corner of Najda St., and Electra St and one is along the old airport road. The Queen Saba store is in Tourist Club Area behind Al Salama Hospital.
Before we used to have a flatmate who is from Kazakhstan and she usually cooks her native dishes over the weekend. Ingredients were particularly difficult to find in local groceries and she told me, she got it from a store near Russian Embassy. I don't know the name of the store, so if you are looking for some Russian ingredients or cooked meals have a little tour around Russian Embassy area in Hamdan.
For Chinese ingredients, there is a Chinese store along Salam St., They have almost everything you need when you want to make your own "shabu-shabu" at home. For Indian ingredients most of it are readily available in big supermarkets. It is the same for Thai but a wider range of spices and sauces are available in Choitram.
So how much are you going to allot for the necessities? Here are some of the prices of grocery stuff as of 24 April 2014:
Small rice cooker - price starts at AED 49 and up, depending on the size and brand.
Sauce pan - price starts at AED 15 and up
Frying pan - price starts at AED 15 and up
bed sheet - price starts at AED 10 and up, depending on the size
blanket - price starts at AED 10 and up, depending on the size
pillow - price starts at AED 15
Jasmine rice - AED 27.00
egg - AED 3.75 for 6 pieces pack
milk - AED 4.50 for tetrapak and AED 5.50 for bottled fresh milk
cooking oil - AED 6.50
coffee - AED 15.90 for Nescafe three in one box of 28 pieces
chicken - AED 9.00 for whole frozen chicken 800-1000 grams a piece.
Monday, April 28, 2014
The-Life-In-Abu-Dhabi Calculator: Chapter 3 - Transportation
Roaming around the city is one way of familiarizing with the place. If you are a newbie going around Abu Dhabi it is advisable that you take the taxi.
Taxicabs here in Abu Dhabi is not so expensive compared to Dubai. Flag down rate is around AED 3.00 during the day then a bit pricier by night which starts at AED 4.00. If you will be riding the taxi around 9 pm and up minimum charge is AED 10 even if the meter reads less than AED 10. Another plus point when taking the taxicab is you can be assured that you will reach your destination faster and safer than by taking the bus or by walking. Taxicabs are the best solution if you want to be fresh and on time for an interview or to get to the office faster. It would be difficult to get a taxi during school days, so better be early to avoid the morning rush. You can also call a cab through number 600 53 53 53 to pick you up.
A few weeks in Abu Dhabi and you'd want to hop on that bus and explore more of Abu Dhabi. I did that once, when I was still new here, I decided to be adventurous and took a bus ride. Took the No. 54 from Hamdan going to Al Wahda mall. After a few rounds in the mall it was time to go home. From the same bus stop where I got off, I took the same bus and imagine my fright when the scenery was no longer familiar. I ended up in Umm Al Naar Petroleum Institute. Good thing the bus drivers were nice and informed me that I should alight from the bus stop across the mall. Lesson learned the hard way - I got an earful from the hubby for that.
Anyway, here are some tips when taking the bus:
a.) Bus No. 5 Landmark stops:
- Abu Dhabi Mall
- Tourist Club City Air Terminal
- Central Souq Market/ WTC Mall
- Hamdan Center
- Spinney's Corniche
- Marina Mall
b.) Bus No. 8 Landmark stops:
- Lifeline Hospital
- Khalidiya Mall
- Philippine Embassy
c.) Bus No. 9 Landmark stops
- Philippine Embassy
- Marina Mall
d.) Bus No. 11 Landmark stops
- Al Wahda Mall
- Philippine Embassy
- Spinney's Corniche
- Marina Mall
e. Bus No. 54 Landmark stops:
- Hamdan Street/ Al Salama Hospital
- Central Market Souq/ WTC Mall
- Al Wahda Mall
Bus fare is AED 2.00 if within the city, outside the city would be AED 4.00. Before boarding the bus be sure to have enough change. Bus cards or "Ojra Bus Pass" are also available in the amount of AED 30 for a week or AED 80.00 for one month. For more information regarding bus fares, cards and routes click here.
Taxicabs here in Abu Dhabi is not so expensive compared to Dubai. Flag down rate is around AED 3.00 during the day then a bit pricier by night which starts at AED 4.00. If you will be riding the taxi around 9 pm and up minimum charge is AED 10 even if the meter reads less than AED 10. Another plus point when taking the taxicab is you can be assured that you will reach your destination faster and safer than by taking the bus or by walking. Taxicabs are the best solution if you want to be fresh and on time for an interview or to get to the office faster. It would be difficult to get a taxi during school days, so better be early to avoid the morning rush. You can also call a cab through number 600 53 53 53 to pick you up.
A few weeks in Abu Dhabi and you'd want to hop on that bus and explore more of Abu Dhabi. I did that once, when I was still new here, I decided to be adventurous and took a bus ride. Took the No. 54 from Hamdan going to Al Wahda mall. After a few rounds in the mall it was time to go home. From the same bus stop where I got off, I took the same bus and imagine my fright when the scenery was no longer familiar. I ended up in Umm Al Naar Petroleum Institute. Good thing the bus drivers were nice and informed me that I should alight from the bus stop across the mall. Lesson learned the hard way - I got an earful from the hubby for that.
a.) Bus No. 5 Landmark stops:
- Abu Dhabi Mall
- Tourist Club City Air Terminal
- Central Souq Market/ WTC Mall
- Hamdan Center
- Spinney's Corniche
- Marina Mall
b.) Bus No. 8 Landmark stops:
- Lifeline Hospital
- Khalidiya Mall
- Philippine Embassy
c.) Bus No. 9 Landmark stops
- Philippine Embassy
- Marina Mall
d.) Bus No. 11 Landmark stops
- Al Wahda Mall
- Philippine Embassy
- Spinney's Corniche
- Marina Mall
e. Bus No. 54 Landmark stops:
- Hamdan Street/ Al Salama Hospital
- Central Market Souq/ WTC Mall
- Al Wahda Mall
Bus fare is AED 2.00 if within the city, outside the city would be AED 4.00. Before boarding the bus be sure to have enough change. Bus cards or "Ojra Bus Pass" are also available in the amount of AED 30 for a week or AED 80.00 for one month. For more information regarding bus fares, cards and routes click here.
Tuesday, April 15, 2014
The Life-In-Abu Dhabi Calculator - Chapter 2 Accommodation
So you have finally landed in the land of the zaby.
What's the next move? Look for an accommodation, of course. Some of you who ventured to visit UAE for employment usually has a contact here to assist you in your adventure. If its your first time to go outside your own country, the first week would probably end up as the sight seeing period. You would be so overwhelmed with the activities and the culture you are currently in. The food, the place and even the people are just so interesting. But after some time the excitement of being in another country subsides a bit, then you'd start thinking about why you came in this country. The constant issues here for expats are housing and employment.
Finding a lodging where you are comfortable, near where you will work and cheap is very hard to come by. Something is always missing among the three factors stated. One factor will always be sacrificed.
To continue reading click here. Thanks!
What's the next move? Look for an accommodation, of course. Some of you who ventured to visit UAE for employment usually has a contact here to assist you in your adventure. If its your first time to go outside your own country, the first week would probably end up as the sight seeing period. You would be so overwhelmed with the activities and the culture you are currently in. The food, the place and even the people are just so interesting. But after some time the excitement of being in another country subsides a bit, then you'd start thinking about why you came in this country. The constant issues here for expats are housing and employment.
Finding a lodging where you are comfortable, near where you will work and cheap is very hard to come by. Something is always missing among the three factors stated. One factor will always be sacrificed.
To continue reading click here. Thanks!
Thursday, February 27, 2014
The Life-In-Abu Dhabi Calculator - Chapter 1 Visa
I have been frequenting this forum where questions are posted about what needs to be done to go here in Abu Dhabi, or what is the average salary that could keep you comfortable living here or just how much everything here in UAE costs. So I have decided to break down necessary parts of living the life of an Expat here in UAE with numbers.
To continue reading, click here.
To continue reading, click here.
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Around the World in 4 Hours... or so
I think one of the best things in life is to travel anywhere in the world and discover food, culture and pocket a handful of memories. Of course, its easier if you have enough money to back your journey. But, here in UAE you can have a taste of what is like jumping from one country to the other without zooming in and out of immigration counters (we know how harrowing that part is!). In one night and in one place you can finally say you have traveled the world. Where else? Dubai Global Village.
The Dubai Global Village is located along the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road. Its hard to miss especially if you are on your way to Dubai. These entertainment park is so huge one night is not enough to visit all the countries exhibiting in it.
It opened on October 5, 2013 and will close on the 1st of March 2014. Basically the park is opened during colder season. When we visited Global Village, we left Abu Dhabi around 4:30 pm and we arrived there around 5:45 pm. As I said, it was not hard to miss because its along the highway going to Dubai. The hard part was finding a parking spot. That was a Friday so the parking lot was fully jammed. We did a little waiting until we could find a spot. It was a bit far from the main entrance, but still better than hanging out inside the car the entire night until a slot is available.
There were plenty of counters where you can buy the entrance ticket. It's at the right side of the main entrance. At AED 15.00 per person, the slightly long drive going there was worth it. Once you get inside it was chaos. Chaos in a fun way. The tuk-tuk by the entrance was enough indication that it's going to be one heck of a fiesta of culture inside.
Once inside, we were so overwhelmed with so many people, food stalls and shops. We can't decide what to do first. There were so many food I'd like to try it was confusing. So we did the smartest thing to do when smacked inside a huge amusement park. Studied the map. Since it was almost dinner time, we have decided to hunt Philippine's (of course!) area so we could eat the food not readily available here in the city.
On the way there, we slip into some countries and checked their products. I particularly love Spain. Their cheese and the hand made items. There is this shop that sells beautiful printed dresses and pants, I wanted to buy some but it was just too expensive for my liking. Have to pass. Then we found one small food court that says Thai restaurant we checked out the stalls one of them serves kwek-kwek. It's the one most of my companions were dying to eat. The food court doesn't have enough tables and chairs to accommodate all diners. So we have to wait and quickly move in in case a table is vacated.
After a quick dinner, we set about roaming the entire place and win some minion at the game fair area. The place was just too huge. Every country featured in the village offers a lot of their products and food. There was even a traditional dance from the Palestine booth. It was difficult to look for the rides and game fair. When we reached the dhow indicating the country of Kuwait, a small walkway lead to the rides and game fair.
The rides were all so scary. I'm not a big fan of carnival rides. I feel like I'm going to pass out just by watching the people scream their brains out with all those rides. I love myself, so I rather watch and be happy for those who like to torture themselves. I wanted to win those big minion toys. A lot of people were carrying huge stuffed toys that they have won from the games. I wanted one so badly. In order to avail of any rides and games you have to buy a card where your money would be converted into credits to be used in the games.
We have spent like almost AED100.00 just to win one freakin' stuffed toy. Maybe we were unlucky that time. At least, we had fun playing it. We even get to ride bump cars one person free!
By 9 pm there was a fireworks display. My brother and I was so elated. For somebody who hails from the city in the Philippines where fireworks are banned, it was already something for us.
We were not able to full roam the area. It was getting colder and our feet were already tired from walking. We didn't even get the chance to buy more food from European stalls. Such a shame.
It was a fun night of discovering cultures and exotic food. Losing on games but having a good laugh. We went home without the most coveted stuffed toys but we promised to be back in the hope of finally winning one.
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The Dubai Global Village is located along the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road. Its hard to miss especially if you are on your way to Dubai. These entertainment park is so huge one night is not enough to visit all the countries exhibiting in it.
It opened on October 5, 2013 and will close on the 1st of March 2014. Basically the park is opened during colder season. When we visited Global Village, we left Abu Dhabi around 4:30 pm and we arrived there around 5:45 pm. As I said, it was not hard to miss because its along the highway going to Dubai. The hard part was finding a parking spot. That was a Friday so the parking lot was fully jammed. We did a little waiting until we could find a spot. It was a bit far from the main entrance, but still better than hanging out inside the car the entire night until a slot is available.
There were plenty of counters where you can buy the entrance ticket. It's at the right side of the main entrance. At AED 15.00 per person, the slightly long drive going there was worth it. Once you get inside it was chaos. Chaos in a fun way. The tuk-tuk by the entrance was enough indication that it's going to be one heck of a fiesta of culture inside.
Once inside, we were so overwhelmed with so many people, food stalls and shops. We can't decide what to do first. There were so many food I'd like to try it was confusing. So we did the smartest thing to do when smacked inside a huge amusement park. Studied the map. Since it was almost dinner time, we have decided to hunt Philippine's (of course!) area so we could eat the food not readily available here in the city.
On the way there, we slip into some countries and checked their products. I particularly love Spain. Their cheese and the hand made items. There is this shop that sells beautiful printed dresses and pants, I wanted to buy some but it was just too expensive for my liking. Have to pass. Then we found one small food court that says Thai restaurant we checked out the stalls one of them serves kwek-kwek. It's the one most of my companions were dying to eat. The food court doesn't have enough tables and chairs to accommodate all diners. So we have to wait and quickly move in in case a table is vacated.
After a quick dinner, we set about roaming the entire place and win some minion at the game fair area. The place was just too huge. Every country featured in the village offers a lot of their products and food. There was even a traditional dance from the Palestine booth. It was difficult to look for the rides and game fair. When we reached the dhow indicating the country of Kuwait, a small walkway lead to the rides and game fair.
The rides were all so scary. I'm not a big fan of carnival rides. I feel like I'm going to pass out just by watching the people scream their brains out with all those rides. I love myself, so I rather watch and be happy for those who like to torture themselves. I wanted to win those big minion toys. A lot of people were carrying huge stuffed toys that they have won from the games. I wanted one so badly. In order to avail of any rides and games you have to buy a card where your money would be converted into credits to be used in the games.
We have spent like almost AED100.00 just to win one freakin' stuffed toy. Maybe we were unlucky that time. At least, we had fun playing it. We even get to ride bump cars one person free!
By 9 pm there was a fireworks display. My brother and I was so elated. For somebody who hails from the city in the Philippines where fireworks are banned, it was already something for us.
We were not able to full roam the area. It was getting colder and our feet were already tired from walking. We didn't even get the chance to buy more food from European stalls. Such a shame.
It was a fun night of discovering cultures and exotic food. Losing on games but having a good laugh. We went home without the most coveted stuffed toys but we promised to be back in the hope of finally winning one.
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Wednesday, February 5, 2014
Documented Expat
Being an OFW, (well used to be one) but being married to one is not all fun when you are going home to your own country.
One would think, you don't have to worry about documents and identifications if your destination is yous hometown. However, that is not the case for Filipinos. I must say, we just love to make everything so complicated. We adhere to these laws not knowing exactly what it is for. Yes, I am talking about OEC, Pag-IBIG payment and SSS. You need to pay for all these documents before flying back home. Or for some, before going back to where you are located abroad.
I must admit, I have never understood why our government requires everybody to have all these documents. Okay, the SSS (Social Security Services) is helpful. It is sort of your bank where you get to loan if in case you need additional cash. Ever since I started working, I have already contributed to SSS and never had the chance to use it. Some warned me that idle accounts are sometimes used by other people. How can they call themselves Security Services if the member won't be secured with their system? Then the Pag-ibig membership, if you are buying a lot or a house and lot in the Philippines, it is better if coursed thru Pag-IBIG. I'm not really sure about it too. And last in the list is the OEC - Overseas Employment Certificate.
Before I plow further with my dislike on the issue. Last December 2013, while I was preparing for my brother's visa going here, I was informed by the travel agent who processed it that aside from securing an Affidavit of Support, I also need to provide an OEC so my brother won't be hold at the Philippine Immigration counter. That's the thing, every time I apply for visa a new requirement comes up. Philippine Immigration just can't seem to make up their mind. They try to stop people from going out of the country - why? Can the country offer better opportunity compared to what these hopeful OFW's wll be earning? Sigh.
Anyway, those new requirement pushed me to visit Philippine Embassy here in Abu Dhabi. So aside from the Affidavit of Support, I have to apply for an OEC, but since I am not employed we have to get one for my husband. We visited the embassy around 3 pm and was informed that they only serve 300 people per day. We were advised to come early so we could get a priority number. The following day, we were surprised when we got there, at 6:30 am there was already a queue. It was DFA Davao city 2008 all over again. Some people were already there as early as 3 am. Who does that??? Apparently Filipinos itching to go home for Christmas.
Anyway, at 7:30 am, somebody from the embassy was distributing forms to be filled up. The first 150 will be served in the morning and the remaining 150 will be in the afternoon. Warning to those who will be getting their OEC during December, start early and take the day off as the process will take up the entire day. And it won't be a Philippine institute/service without fixers. Yes, even abroad they still thrive. One "Ate" was lurking among a group of people who was giving unsolicited advices and suddenly say "madali lang namn po yan, pwede ko po ipasok yan dun para mas mabili..." Alam na! It is so typical Filipino. It is embarrassing.
I might have covered the entire post with my rant over my experience at the Philippine Embassy here in Abu Dhabi. Additional infor for those who needs direction going there, bus numbers 8, 9, 10, 11 and 161 passes by the area. Or if you have extra cash you can always take the cab.
I hope, one day the system will be fixed. A better service will be provided for the OFW not just for the documentation but also for those who really needed assistance. OFW's are worth more than a dozen of Vhong Navarros, you know. I'm just saying.
One would think, you don't have to worry about documents and identifications if your destination is yous hometown. However, that is not the case for Filipinos. I must say, we just love to make everything so complicated. We adhere to these laws not knowing exactly what it is for. Yes, I am talking about OEC, Pag-IBIG payment and SSS. You need to pay for all these documents before flying back home. Or for some, before going back to where you are located abroad.
I must admit, I have never understood why our government requires everybody to have all these documents. Okay, the SSS (Social Security Services) is helpful. It is sort of your bank where you get to loan if in case you need additional cash. Ever since I started working, I have already contributed to SSS and never had the chance to use it. Some warned me that idle accounts are sometimes used by other people. How can they call themselves Security Services if the member won't be secured with their system? Then the Pag-ibig membership, if you are buying a lot or a house and lot in the Philippines, it is better if coursed thru Pag-IBIG. I'm not really sure about it too. And last in the list is the OEC - Overseas Employment Certificate.
Before I plow further with my dislike on the issue. Last December 2013, while I was preparing for my brother's visa going here, I was informed by the travel agent who processed it that aside from securing an Affidavit of Support, I also need to provide an OEC so my brother won't be hold at the Philippine Immigration counter. That's the thing, every time I apply for visa a new requirement comes up. Philippine Immigration just can't seem to make up their mind. They try to stop people from going out of the country - why? Can the country offer better opportunity compared to what these hopeful OFW's wll be earning? Sigh.
Anyway, those new requirement pushed me to visit Philippine Embassy here in Abu Dhabi. So aside from the Affidavit of Support, I have to apply for an OEC, but since I am not employed we have to get one for my husband. We visited the embassy around 3 pm and was informed that they only serve 300 people per day. We were advised to come early so we could get a priority number. The following day, we were surprised when we got there, at 6:30 am there was already a queue. It was DFA Davao city 2008 all over again. Some people were already there as early as 3 am. Who does that??? Apparently Filipinos itching to go home for Christmas.
Anyway, at 7:30 am, somebody from the embassy was distributing forms to be filled up. The first 150 will be served in the morning and the remaining 150 will be in the afternoon. Warning to those who will be getting their OEC during December, start early and take the day off as the process will take up the entire day. And it won't be a Philippine institute/service without fixers. Yes, even abroad they still thrive. One "Ate" was lurking among a group of people who was giving unsolicited advices and suddenly say "madali lang namn po yan, pwede ko po ipasok yan dun para mas mabili..." Alam na! It is so typical Filipino. It is embarrassing.
I might have covered the entire post with my rant over my experience at the Philippine Embassy here in Abu Dhabi. Additional infor for those who needs direction going there, bus numbers 8, 9, 10, 11 and 161 passes by the area. Or if you have extra cash you can always take the cab.
I hope, one day the system will be fixed. A better service will be provided for the OFW not just for the documentation but also for those who really needed assistance. OFW's are worth more than a dozen of Vhong Navarros, you know. I'm just saying.
Tuesday, February 4, 2014
Chicken Kitchen - First Chow Test of the Year
As 2014 kicked off with quite a bang, we started our "nom-nom" adventure with a chicken meal.
In one of those Fridays where we don't have a specific activity set, we found ourselves wandering around The Gourmet Republic of Al Wahda Mall's extension. At 11 a.m. most of the restaurants there just opened. So not much diners in the area. Or maybe because only a few knew about the area. On that floor, there was the Mc Cafe, Papa John's, Burger Bureau and Chicken Kitchen. Since I was craving for anything chicken and fried we decided to give it a try.
The menu was simple, all chicken! What else?! I was sort of missing this fried chicken patty back at home so I scanned the menu for something similar to it. Luckily there was, I just hope it tastes as good though. I ordered the Chicken Schnitzel with fries and sauteed vegetables while hubby ordered the 1/2 rotisserie chicken and corn as side dish. We ordered fountain soda a.k.a bottomless soda drinks. I asked if I could get a glass of service water, turned out they don't provide one so I have to order a bottle of water. Bummer.
Our orders came after half an hour. I don't know why it took that long, considering there was only me and my husband as their first customer. They could have been prepared at 11:00 a.m. Anyway, we were surprised with the size of the plate my order was placed. It was huge. I mean really really huge. It took almost half of the table. Presentation wise it was appealing. So we dug in and first bite was okay, second bite it was not as appetizing as it looked. My stir-fried vegetables were all so soggy and overcooked. The chicken was coated with something sour and it just doesn't blend well with the crispy coating. Husband's order was acceptable but honestly it was not as good as Kenny Roger's Roasters as what the waitress was bragging about.
The serving was huge. So I was ready to pop when I finished 2/3 of my plate. The over all experience was mixed. The yellow rice that go with the roasted chicken was good. The roasted chicken was juicy but not so tasty. For the schnitzel, better not order it again. It's not that good. Unless you like crispy sour chicken for your meal. We paid a total price of AED 125.00.
In one of those Fridays where we don't have a specific activity set, we found ourselves wandering around The Gourmet Republic of Al Wahda Mall's extension. At 11 a.m. most of the restaurants there just opened. So not much diners in the area. Or maybe because only a few knew about the area. On that floor, there was the Mc Cafe, Papa John's, Burger Bureau and Chicken Kitchen. Since I was craving for anything chicken and fried we decided to give it a try.
The menu was simple, all chicken! What else?! I was sort of missing this fried chicken patty back at home so I scanned the menu for something similar to it. Luckily there was, I just hope it tastes as good though. I ordered the Chicken Schnitzel with fries and sauteed vegetables while hubby ordered the 1/2 rotisserie chicken and corn as side dish. We ordered fountain soda a.k.a bottomless soda drinks. I asked if I could get a glass of service water, turned out they don't provide one so I have to order a bottle of water. Bummer.
Our orders came after half an hour. I don't know why it took that long, considering there was only me and my husband as their first customer. They could have been prepared at 11:00 a.m. Anyway, we were surprised with the size of the plate my order was placed. It was huge. I mean really really huge. It took almost half of the table. Presentation wise it was appealing. So we dug in and first bite was okay, second bite it was not as appetizing as it looked. My stir-fried vegetables were all so soggy and overcooked. The chicken was coated with something sour and it just doesn't blend well with the crispy coating. Husband's order was acceptable but honestly it was not as good as Kenny Roger's Roasters as what the waitress was bragging about.
The serving was huge. So I was ready to pop when I finished 2/3 of my plate. The over all experience was mixed. The yellow rice that go with the roasted chicken was good. The roasted chicken was juicy but not so tasty. For the schnitzel, better not order it again. It's not that good. Unless you like crispy sour chicken for your meal. We paid a total price of AED 125.00.
Monday, January 6, 2014
Shakin' Shake Shack
The food adventure continuous.
A while back, I posted a blog about checking out IHOP in Dubai. Next to the restaurant is another joint that looks interesting. It was a burger joint that doesn't have too much decor on its interior but the queue is long it's a sign that they are probably serving good food. It certainly is all about the burger at Shake Shack.
Who would have expected that a restaurant with a name as Shake Shack spells fab burgers. Of course, beef burgers often go hand in hand with a vanilla milkshake. A lethal combination to guarantee a coronary blockage. But! Let us forget about that for awhile, besides, I haven't eaten a beef burger for months already. Beef is not a star on our grocery list - so it is always a treat to have some.
Since visiting Dubai is always reserved for long weekends and holidays, we thought testing Shake Shack goodies will just have to wait. So while I was hungrily checking their menu, turned out they have already opened one in Abu Dhabi at Dalam Mall. Hooray!
Truly Dalma Mall is a dark horse when it comes to shopping and dining. I'm beginning to like this mall already. As you would know, I am partial of Al Wahda mall. Aside from being near our home it has everything I need. Anyway, the Shake Shack is not hard to miss as you approach the mall a signage in metallic silver can be seen from afar.
The menu was not so extensive. It was basically burgers, fries, hotdogs, shake and frozen custard. For the menu click here.
The ambiance of the restaurant was lay back and relaxing. Late diners occupy some of the wooden tables with an engraved logo of the joint. It was pretty cute. Also, it was noteworthy that their wooden chairs are really sturdy. The design looks like the basic foldable picnic chairs but it holds.
So here is what we have ordered:
Shack stack - AED 37.00
Single Cheeseburger - AED 28.00
Single Shack Attack - AED 21.00
Single Design your Own concrete - AED 12 + 3 (addition of Peanut Butter Sauce)
Cheese Fries - AED 18.00
The overall meal experience was satisfying. I was not so happy with the concrete. I was expecting it would be like milk shakes. I guess I ordered the wrong item. Turned out the milk shakes were at the other side of the menu. My mistake. Usually frozen goods are listed right next to the desserts. My husband liked it though. We'd probably visit it again the next time we visit Mussafah area.
A while back, I posted a blog about checking out IHOP in Dubai. Next to the restaurant is another joint that looks interesting. It was a burger joint that doesn't have too much decor on its interior but the queue is long it's a sign that they are probably serving good food. It certainly is all about the burger at Shake Shack.
Who would have expected that a restaurant with a name as Shake Shack spells fab burgers. Of course, beef burgers often go hand in hand with a vanilla milkshake. A lethal combination to guarantee a coronary blockage. But! Let us forget about that for awhile, besides, I haven't eaten a beef burger for months already. Beef is not a star on our grocery list - so it is always a treat to have some.
Since visiting Dubai is always reserved for long weekends and holidays, we thought testing Shake Shack goodies will just have to wait. So while I was hungrily checking their menu, turned out they have already opened one in Abu Dhabi at Dalam Mall. Hooray!
Truly Dalma Mall is a dark horse when it comes to shopping and dining. I'm beginning to like this mall already. As you would know, I am partial of Al Wahda mall. Aside from being near our home it has everything I need. Anyway, the Shake Shack is not hard to miss as you approach the mall a signage in metallic silver can be seen from afar.
The menu was not so extensive. It was basically burgers, fries, hotdogs, shake and frozen custard. For the menu click here.
The ambiance of the restaurant was lay back and relaxing. Late diners occupy some of the wooden tables with an engraved logo of the joint. It was pretty cute. Also, it was noteworthy that their wooden chairs are really sturdy. The design looks like the basic foldable picnic chairs but it holds.
So here is what we have ordered:
Shack stack - AED 37.00
Single Cheeseburger - AED 28.00
Single Shack Attack - AED 21.00
Single Design your Own concrete - AED 12 + 3 (addition of Peanut Butter Sauce)
Cheese Fries - AED 18.00
The overall meal experience was satisfying. I was not so happy with the concrete. I was expecting it would be like milk shakes. I guess I ordered the wrong item. Turned out the milk shakes were at the other side of the menu. My mistake. Usually frozen goods are listed right next to the desserts. My husband liked it though. We'd probably visit it again the next time we visit Mussafah area.
Wednesday, December 4, 2013
Popcorn Heaven - Garrett's
It's December already!! How else are you going to start it with but with a sweet bang! Since we all know December is that time of the year when your gym's exercise routine gets lost. It is also the time when you lose control with spending and when your waistband just miraculously expand with non-stop Christmas parties. My sweet treats started right in the first week of December when I saw the blue stripes logo of Garrett's at Dalma Mall in Mussafah.
Imagine my delight when I saw the shop. Garrett's finally here in Abu Dhabi! I don't have to run to Dubai just to have those sweet and salty popcorn. Who could resist caramel covered popcorn while watching tv or a movie? Garrett's leveled it up by adding nuts like almonds, walnuts and cashew. Or if you want the old school type they also have the buttered popcorn and they also have the cheese if you prefer salty type of popcorn. However, if you are like me who eat sweet and salty alternately, you can always the Chicago mix. This is a combination of the caramel and cheese popcorn. I'm not a big fan of cheese but it will do for the salt requirement. The buttered popcorn was just too salty for my liking.
So, if you feel like indulging in good quality popcorn, visit Dalma Mall's Garrett's Popcorn.
You can never go wrong with that blue tin container (or pink tin container if you're in Singapore) - worth every penny, even Oprah voted this as one of her favorite things.
Imagine my delight when I saw the shop. Garrett's finally here in Abu Dhabi! I don't have to run to Dubai just to have those sweet and salty popcorn. Who could resist caramel covered popcorn while watching tv or a movie? Garrett's leveled it up by adding nuts like almonds, walnuts and cashew. Or if you want the old school type they also have the buttered popcorn and they also have the cheese if you prefer salty type of popcorn. However, if you are like me who eat sweet and salty alternately, you can always the Chicago mix. This is a combination of the caramel and cheese popcorn. I'm not a big fan of cheese but it will do for the salt requirement. The buttered popcorn was just too salty for my liking.
So, if you feel like indulging in good quality popcorn, visit Dalma Mall's Garrett's Popcorn.
You can never go wrong with that blue tin container (or pink tin container if you're in Singapore) - worth every penny, even Oprah voted this as one of her favorite things.
Wednesday, November 27, 2013
The Asian Záhuò diàn
The winter chill is slowly creeping in the city. This means that the a/c can start taking vacation from over-cooling the houses of Abu Dhabi. Colder weather means hot chocolates and warm soups. When I say warm soups, I meant those spicy Chinese noodles. Ah, I miss my days in Singapore. I can have noodles anytime of the day. So how do we cope with cravings such as this? Yes, we go to the shabu-shabu. But, if moolah is a bit tight the best option is to make your own at home. I don't mean buying those instant noodles with Chinese characters you can not read. I meant, make it from scratch. The noodles, the dumplings, the meatballs, and the vegetables. So where to get all these? Where else but at the Chinese grocery!
A friend showed me the place a few months before. And what I have discovered was something that will keep me coming back to the store whenever the nostalgia for noodles and anything Asian hit me.
The store with a huge Baqala signage and a smaller signage that reads Chinese Store is next to Beijing Restaurant along Salam St.. It is exactly in front of a bus stop. If you will be taking the cab you can tell the driver to take you to the bus stop of HSBC bank along Salam St.,
Every time I visit the store, new items are displayed and it just makes me smile. I remember, during the Autumn festival, they have tons of mooncake displayed. I was so overwhelmed, I ended up buying nothing. But I got some mochi instead. They have all kinds of instant noodles if you are feeling lazy but want to eat noodles. Fresh vegetables and noodles are also available and amazingly cheap. They have all kinds of Asian condiments that you could think of. Even refreshments that I used to see in Singapore but never dared to try are also being sold. Frozen goods are also plentiful, I highly recommend buying those handmade frozen dumplings. I can't get enough of those.
I will be posting some pics, but I apologize if its not that good, since I was a bit hesitant to take some pictures, the lady at the store saw me taking pictures and she was eyeing me suspiciously. Do come and visit the store, it was like Little China in there.
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| The Signage - Chinese LLC 02 491 9508 |
A friend showed me the place a few months before. And what I have discovered was something that will keep me coming back to the store whenever the nostalgia for noodles and anything Asian hit me.
The store with a huge Baqala signage and a smaller signage that reads Chinese Store is next to Beijing Restaurant along Salam St.. It is exactly in front of a bus stop. If you will be taking the cab you can tell the driver to take you to the bus stop of HSBC bank along Salam St.,
Every time I visit the store, new items are displayed and it just makes me smile. I remember, during the Autumn festival, they have tons of mooncake displayed. I was so overwhelmed, I ended up buying nothing. But I got some mochi instead. They have all kinds of instant noodles if you are feeling lazy but want to eat noodles. Fresh vegetables and noodles are also available and amazingly cheap. They have all kinds of Asian condiments that you could think of. Even refreshments that I used to see in Singapore but never dared to try are also being sold. Frozen goods are also plentiful, I highly recommend buying those handmade frozen dumplings. I can't get enough of those.
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| Instant Noodles (sorry its blurry) |
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| Aisle of Asian Vegetables |
I will be posting some pics, but I apologize if its not that good, since I was a bit hesitant to take some pictures, the lady at the store saw me taking pictures and she was eyeing me suspiciously. Do come and visit the store, it was like Little China in there.
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| My loot! Vegetable Dumplings, Egg Noodles and Instant Noodles |
Wednesday, November 20, 2013
Indian Night at Kebabs and Kurries
Ethnic restaurants have always drawn me like a firefly drawn to a lamp. Unfortunately, I don't always get the chance to actually dive into it. Partly because my constant meal-mate is not as adventurous as I am and partly, I'm scared myself, especially if the restaurant is known to be for boys-only type.
While I am still into the Indian cuisine (I think I'll never get enough of their food, promise!), we visited Kebabs and Kurries at Souk Central Market. We had a hard time looking for the restaurant as it was actually located at one of the entrances of the mall. I'm not entirely sure which one but its right next to where a guy makes handmade bangles and other hand intricate jewelry.
It was a Friday night and it was not packed. Two tables were already occupied. One table was obviously tourists and the other was occupied by an Indian family. The staff immediately seated us and gave us the menu. Good thing I have already checked the menu online so we could give out our orders immediately. We ordered chicken biryani (what else??) and kadhai chicken. For drinks, we ordered iced tea and mango lassi as this was highly recommended by the staff. While waiting for our order a bread basket was serve with some dippings - mint and yoghurt.
The food took some time to arrive, hence, the bread basket was empty after a few minutes of waiting.
The mango lassi was good. Too rich for my liking. The chicken biryani was good while the kadhai was not that memorable. It just tasted like the Indian style buttered chicken. It was not so spicy so it was okay.
The serving was enough for two people. But if you are really hungry, you might end up ordering more. I guess, another bread basket would have been good as there was enough sauce from the kadhai to dip into. The food, the service and the price of the food was all in all a B-.
I would still visit this place just because the place is comfortable and the price was reasonable.
For the menu click here.
While I am still into the Indian cuisine (I think I'll never get enough of their food, promise!), we visited Kebabs and Kurries at Souk Central Market. We had a hard time looking for the restaurant as it was actually located at one of the entrances of the mall. I'm not entirely sure which one but its right next to where a guy makes handmade bangles and other hand intricate jewelry.
It was a Friday night and it was not packed. Two tables were already occupied. One table was obviously tourists and the other was occupied by an Indian family. The staff immediately seated us and gave us the menu. Good thing I have already checked the menu online so we could give out our orders immediately. We ordered chicken biryani (what else??) and kadhai chicken. For drinks, we ordered iced tea and mango lassi as this was highly recommended by the staff. While waiting for our order a bread basket was serve with some dippings - mint and yoghurt.
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| Bread Basket with mint and yoghurt dipping |
The food took some time to arrive, hence, the bread basket was empty after a few minutes of waiting.
The mango lassi was good. Too rich for my liking. The chicken biryani was good while the kadhai was not that memorable. It just tasted like the Indian style buttered chicken. It was not so spicy so it was okay.
The serving was enough for two people. But if you are really hungry, you might end up ordering more. I guess, another bread basket would have been good as there was enough sauce from the kadhai to dip into. The food, the service and the price of the food was all in all a B-.
I would still visit this place just because the place is comfortable and the price was reasonable.
For the menu click here.
Monday, November 4, 2013
Eid Al Adha 2013 of the Homebody
It has been a week that has passed since the busy Eid Al Adha holidays. While most of the working class are nursing holiday hangovers, I am still busy finishing my to-do lists. For a homebody like me, the holidays do not really mean a thing anymore, but an excuse for me to go out of the house and do something crazy-ish.
A few weeks before the big holiday some friends were asking me what are our plans for the three-day holiday. Its one of the anticipated holidays of the year here in Abu Dhabi so why not do something extravagant. I am such a killjoy because I opted not to go out and do excursions, instead we did our Christmas shopping in advance. Yep, you read that right, Christmas shopping in October, I even started wrapping up some of the gift I have already bought. For those who are not an expat, December is the busiest time for all couriers all over the world, I think. At least it is here in UAE. Last year, a colleague informed me that if I want my balikbayan box to arrive just in time for Christmas I have to send the box by September. Yikes!
Back to the holidays, we went to Dubai Outlet Mall to shop. We were not prepared to see the outlet mall full of Filipinos who were also shopping. Like shopping crazy. We spent the entire day shopping and believing me it was not enough. We have to do some pit stops at Emirates Mall to pick up my baking ingredients. The second day activity was the same. While most of my friends were relaxing at the park enjoying the cooler weather, my husband and I had to do more buying.
On the last day, we took a break and decided to have brunch at the beach. The last time I went to the beach here in Abu Dhabi was 3 years ago. July 2013. So in the morning, I made breakfast burritos, corn dogs, store-bought fried chicken and fried rice and went to the beach. We took gate number 2 as this is the part of the corniche where there are bungalows. Unfortunately when we got there, all are occupied. We settled on a nearby grass and opened our blanket to start our little picnic.
But after some time, a cottage was available and we moved our stuff under the shade. Advice for those who are considering going to the beach in this area, if you have food, its better if you bring your table and chairs. Although blankets and mats are okay there are ants. Just to avoid biting into them, its better to bring something to put your food at.
By lunch time the beach was not so saturated anymore. It was a nice day to relax and enjoy the breeze and people watch. We stayed there for.at least two hours. Yes, i know not much time to totally get a decent sun tan, but the heat was just a bit too much already.
By the way, the entrance fee was AED 5.00 for kids and AED 10.00 for adults. Grilling was not allowed in the area. Gate number 2 is the entrance near the Tiara Express kiosk. It is also the entrance in front of the intersection with the Chevrolet Showroom.
A few weeks before the big holiday some friends were asking me what are our plans for the three-day holiday. Its one of the anticipated holidays of the year here in Abu Dhabi so why not do something extravagant. I am such a killjoy because I opted not to go out and do excursions, instead we did our Christmas shopping in advance. Yep, you read that right, Christmas shopping in October, I even started wrapping up some of the gift I have already bought. For those who are not an expat, December is the busiest time for all couriers all over the world, I think. At least it is here in UAE. Last year, a colleague informed me that if I want my balikbayan box to arrive just in time for Christmas I have to send the box by September. Yikes!
Back to the holidays, we went to Dubai Outlet Mall to shop. We were not prepared to see the outlet mall full of Filipinos who were also shopping. Like shopping crazy. We spent the entire day shopping and believing me it was not enough. We have to do some pit stops at Emirates Mall to pick up my baking ingredients. The second day activity was the same. While most of my friends were relaxing at the park enjoying the cooler weather, my husband and I had to do more buying.
On the last day, we took a break and decided to have brunch at the beach. The last time I went to the beach here in Abu Dhabi was 3 years ago. July 2013. So in the morning, I made breakfast burritos, corn dogs, store-bought fried chicken and fried rice and went to the beach. We took gate number 2 as this is the part of the corniche where there are bungalows. Unfortunately when we got there, all are occupied. We settled on a nearby grass and opened our blanket to start our little picnic.
But after some time, a cottage was available and we moved our stuff under the shade. Advice for those who are considering going to the beach in this area, if you have food, its better if you bring your table and chairs. Although blankets and mats are okay there are ants. Just to avoid biting into them, its better to bring something to put your food at.
By lunch time the beach was not so saturated anymore. It was a nice day to relax and enjoy the breeze and people watch. We stayed there for.at least two hours. Yes, i know not much time to totally get a decent sun tan, but the heat was just a bit too much already.
By the way, the entrance fee was AED 5.00 for kids and AED 10.00 for adults. Grilling was not allowed in the area. Gate number 2 is the entrance near the Tiara Express kiosk. It is also the entrance in front of the intersection with the Chevrolet Showroom.
Thursday, October 3, 2013
The Royal Treatment
Thai cuisine has always been on my top list of go-to food whenever I feel like binging. I have tried cooking Thai but its always a disaster, so I rather have it ordered than cook it myself.
A have this voucher expiring soon and its from Royal Orchid. I was not so keen in using it because the name of the restaurant doesn't ring a bell. While I was feeling a bit adventurous, I checked the net for any information about this Royal Orchid Restaurant. Lo and behold, I was surprised that this restaurant has received a number of awards.
So we decided to try out the place. The restaurant is located behind ADCB bank corner Salam St and Electra Street. It is also near ADNOC with the Marry Brown fast food. We wanted to make that night a little bit special with a bottle of red, that's why we opted to eat dinner at home (by the way, alcohol is not normally served here). Around 6:30 I called to make the order and to pick up the food. I was informed that they will only open around 7 pm. So they will not be taking any orders until then. When we went there, there's no customer yet, I was greeted with two lovely ladies, and immediately accommodated me.
The ordering didn't take much time. I was informed that it will only take 15 minutes. We have to buy something else, so I told them I'll just come back. A few moments later, I received a call from them informing me that my order is already ready. When I got to the place, they were already waiting with my order.
I must say, the service is excellent. At home, when the table was set and ready to go, we dug in. We ordered Lettuce wraps with Peking Duck, Honey Lemon Crispy chicken and Chicken Pad Thai. All of it are amazing. We couldn't stop eating until there was none left. There's only a few Thai restaurants in the city and most of them are not so good except for one place - Taste of Thailand in Al Ain Palace Hotel. They have authentic Thai food but quite expensive.
The food, the price, the service - Royal Orchid is something one should visit whatever the occasion may be.
A have this voucher expiring soon and its from Royal Orchid. I was not so keen in using it because the name of the restaurant doesn't ring a bell. While I was feeling a bit adventurous, I checked the net for any information about this Royal Orchid Restaurant. Lo and behold, I was surprised that this restaurant has received a number of awards.
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| (got the picture from roundmenu) |
So we decided to try out the place. The restaurant is located behind ADCB bank corner Salam St and Electra Street. It is also near ADNOC with the Marry Brown fast food. We wanted to make that night a little bit special with a bottle of red, that's why we opted to eat dinner at home (by the way, alcohol is not normally served here). Around 6:30 I called to make the order and to pick up the food. I was informed that they will only open around 7 pm. So they will not be taking any orders until then. When we went there, there's no customer yet, I was greeted with two lovely ladies, and immediately accommodated me.
The ordering didn't take much time. I was informed that it will only take 15 minutes. We have to buy something else, so I told them I'll just come back. A few moments later, I received a call from them informing me that my order is already ready. When I got to the place, they were already waiting with my order.
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| from left to right: paking duck, lettuce, lemon chicken and pad thai. |
I must say, the service is excellent. At home, when the table was set and ready to go, we dug in. We ordered Lettuce wraps with Peking Duck, Honey Lemon Crispy chicken and Chicken Pad Thai. All of it are amazing. We couldn't stop eating until there was none left. There's only a few Thai restaurants in the city and most of them are not so good except for one place - Taste of Thailand in Al Ain Palace Hotel. They have authentic Thai food but quite expensive.
The food, the price, the service - Royal Orchid is something one should visit whatever the occasion may be.
Wednesday, October 2, 2013
Making a Good Choice at The Choices,Yas Island Rotana
A recent opportunity lead us to Yas Island on a sunny Friday afternoon. As much as we want to laze around and sleep practically the whole day, the brunch service of Yas Rotana hotel is only from 12 noon to 4 pm. We have to make the most of it. Besides, who could pass up a chance for an international buffet?
Yas Island is a short drive from Abu Dhabi city. This is where Ikea (weeho!), The Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld and the Formula One racetrack is located. Locating Yas Island Rotana was easy because it is situated on the part of the island near the race track. If you are coming from Abu Dhabi you can take Corniche Road thru Mina Road. Once you are in Yas Island, follow the signage that states Yas Leisure Drive. It will lead you to all the hotels in Yas Island - Centro, Crowne Plaza and Radisson Blu. The drive was tricky, because the main entrance is a bit narrow and you won't easily notice it. Both Yas Island Rotana and Centro share the same driveway.
The parking is at the basement of Centro hotel and doesn't have an entrance to the Yas Island Rotana hotel. So you have to pass thru the Centro hotel before you get to the Yas Island Rotana.
The Choices restaurant is just one of the restaurants of the hotel and its located on the ground floor, opposite the main front desk. Friday brunch is always a jam packed day for the restaurant. We had to make a reservation a week ahead.
We arrived there around 1:45 pm and it was already buzzing with hungry diners. Most of the diners were hotel guests and some expat's family. I was so ecstatic because they have a counter for Ethnic food. And they have chicken biryani! The international menu was impressive. Especially the roasted meats. I love their roasted chicken. It was juicy and tasty.
I nearly overlooked the salad bar, because it was situated opposite the mains. I was hoping that the arrangement of the salad would be right next to the mains. Unfortunately, the sushi bar was around the corner next to the mains. Hohum. Plus, there's not much salad ingredients and dressings. It was a bit of a letdown.
They also have a crepe station and you can choose whatever topping you want.. I was sort of hoping for a pancake or waffle station since its a brunch. I was not so happy with the dessert station. Yes, they have the chocolate fountain which is a hit with the kids, but there is nothing appetizing with chocolate dripping (Sorry, I'm not a chocolate lover).
About the dessert bar, while I was checking what they were serving. There's not much that could fix my sugar craving. So I got some chocolate pudding on a shot glass, some banana beignets and some French macaroons. Although, they serve some mini cakes, I didn't get some as they look too dry for my liking. I like my cake dense or fudgy. Hey, I'm choosy when it comes to cakes, so no judging.
I didn't take much pictures as I felt too embarrass to take some. All in all the dining experience in The Choices restaurant was incredibly scrumptious. The service was also good. Everybody was accommodating. And the plates were cleared immediately. A lot of the staff roam the floor to assist diners in their needs. A must visit if you feel like splurging on good food with a classy ambiance.
Yas Island is a short drive from Abu Dhabi city. This is where Ikea (weeho!), The Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld and the Formula One racetrack is located. Locating Yas Island Rotana was easy because it is situated on the part of the island near the race track. If you are coming from Abu Dhabi you can take Corniche Road thru Mina Road. Once you are in Yas Island, follow the signage that states Yas Leisure Drive. It will lead you to all the hotels in Yas Island - Centro, Crowne Plaza and Radisson Blu. The drive was tricky, because the main entrance is a bit narrow and you won't easily notice it. Both Yas Island Rotana and Centro share the same driveway.
The parking is at the basement of Centro hotel and doesn't have an entrance to the Yas Island Rotana hotel. So you have to pass thru the Centro hotel before you get to the Yas Island Rotana.
The Choices restaurant is just one of the restaurants of the hotel and its located on the ground floor, opposite the main front desk. Friday brunch is always a jam packed day for the restaurant. We had to make a reservation a week ahead.
We arrived there around 1:45 pm and it was already buzzing with hungry diners. Most of the diners were hotel guests and some expat's family. I was so ecstatic because they have a counter for Ethnic food. And they have chicken biryani! The international menu was impressive. Especially the roasted meats. I love their roasted chicken. It was juicy and tasty.
 |
| my biryani! |
I nearly overlooked the salad bar, because it was situated opposite the mains. I was hoping that the arrangement of the salad would be right next to the mains. Unfortunately, the sushi bar was around the corner next to the mains. Hohum. Plus, there's not much salad ingredients and dressings. It was a bit of a letdown.
They also have a crepe station and you can choose whatever topping you want.. I was sort of hoping for a pancake or waffle station since its a brunch. I was not so happy with the dessert station. Yes, they have the chocolate fountain which is a hit with the kids, but there is nothing appetizing with chocolate dripping (Sorry, I'm not a chocolate lover).
About the dessert bar, while I was checking what they were serving. There's not much that could fix my sugar craving. So I got some chocolate pudding on a shot glass, some banana beignets and some French macaroons. Although, they serve some mini cakes, I didn't get some as they look too dry for my liking. I like my cake dense or fudgy. Hey, I'm choosy when it comes to cakes, so no judging.
I didn't take much pictures as I felt too embarrass to take some. All in all the dining experience in The Choices restaurant was incredibly scrumptious. The service was also good. Everybody was accommodating. And the plates were cleared immediately. A lot of the staff roam the floor to assist diners in their needs. A must visit if you feel like splurging on good food with a classy ambiance.
Monday, September 30, 2013
The Biryani Experience
The first time I had Biryani was way back 2005 while I was doing my post-graduate study. One of my classmates suggested we try this Persian eatery near the campus. I was a bit hesitant since I was not that adventurous with food yet. Since I don't want to be the killjoy of the group, I tagged along. Majid's is a small eatery serving Persian food locally prepared everyday.
The kababs, the yoghurt and the biryani were a delight to the tongue. It is something you'd definitely be ordering again and again. Before I could go on though, let me tell you what a biryani is. Biryani is a dish based mostly with basmati rice mixed with different spices. The dish is usually accompanied by chicken, mutton or fish.
A few months back, my sister and her family took me to Ras, an Indian buffet in Singapore. It was everything I hoped for and more. I had biryani for like three rounds! And by the time I was in the middle of my second serving, my mouth was already burning and a thin sheet of sweat was already forming on my upper lip. I love it!
Since I came here in Abu Dhabi, I have tried a few biryani but most of them are just plain forgettable. Only a few that I could remember which I would definitely be ordering from again. The first one is Green Darbar. We discovered this place when we were living in Tourist Club area. It was cheap but very filling. One serving is already enough for two people. And one weekday night I had a Biryani 101 crash course. It was mouth burning, tummy filling and culturally enriching dinner.
Where else can you find all types of Indian food in one place? Yes, the food court, but not just any food court, its at the food court of the extension of Madinat Zayed.
For our main meal - the biryani - our biryani guru lead us to Biryani Hut. We had the Malabar Chicken Biryani and the Hyderabadi Biryani. The prices for this biryani range from AED 14 and up. Depending on the protein you will be choosing.
As part of our menu, we also had, Beef Fry, Dahl and Paneer Masala. Our guide informed us that there are two ways to prepare beef fry the dry one and the wet one. We ordered the dry one, I figured it would be spicier. But actually its not. The dahl is a vegetarian dish made of lentils cooked in their special spices. The winner of the night is the Paneer Masala. It is a cheese dish cooked in a spicy masala sauce. This made an absolute fiesta inside my mouth. I simply love it. It was burning hot and its sauce. Plus it made me eat more rice than what I would have liked.
The Malabar Chicken Biryani was highly recommended by our guide, and true enough, it was good. It's not as what I usually have but its good. Perfectly go well with the Paneer Masala.
Our night ended when I could not swallow more rice anymore. As much as I want to shove more paneer into my mouth, I just can't feel my tongue anymore. The minute that it happened I can't wait to go home and gurgle some milk to take away the burning sensation.
It was a good mouth torture, but I will definitely do it again and again and again...besides, I always have a carton of milk standing by.
The kababs, the yoghurt and the biryani were a delight to the tongue. It is something you'd definitely be ordering again and again. Before I could go on though, let me tell you what a biryani is. Biryani is a dish based mostly with basmati rice mixed with different spices. The dish is usually accompanied by chicken, mutton or fish.
A few months back, my sister and her family took me to Ras, an Indian buffet in Singapore. It was everything I hoped for and more. I had biryani for like three rounds! And by the time I was in the middle of my second serving, my mouth was already burning and a thin sheet of sweat was already forming on my upper lip. I love it!
Since I came here in Abu Dhabi, I have tried a few biryani but most of them are just plain forgettable. Only a few that I could remember which I would definitely be ordering from again. The first one is Green Darbar. We discovered this place when we were living in Tourist Club area. It was cheap but very filling. One serving is already enough for two people. And one weekday night I had a Biryani 101 crash course. It was mouth burning, tummy filling and culturally enriching dinner.
Where else can you find all types of Indian food in one place? Yes, the food court, but not just any food court, its at the food court of the extension of Madinat Zayed.
For our main meal - the biryani - our biryani guru lead us to Biryani Hut. We had the Malabar Chicken Biryani and the Hyderabadi Biryani. The prices for this biryani range from AED 14 and up. Depending on the protein you will be choosing.
 |
| the feast |
As part of our menu, we also had, Beef Fry, Dahl and Paneer Masala. Our guide informed us that there are two ways to prepare beef fry the dry one and the wet one. We ordered the dry one, I figured it would be spicier. But actually its not. The dahl is a vegetarian dish made of lentils cooked in their special spices. The winner of the night is the Paneer Masala. It is a cheese dish cooked in a spicy masala sauce. This made an absolute fiesta inside my mouth. I simply love it. It was burning hot and its sauce. Plus it made me eat more rice than what I would have liked.
 |
| Hyderabadi Chicken Biryani |
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| Malabar Chicken Biryani |
The Malabar Chicken Biryani was highly recommended by our guide, and true enough, it was good. It's not as what I usually have but its good. Perfectly go well with the Paneer Masala.
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| Dahl and Beef Fry |
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| Paneer Masala (I know it doesn't look appetizing - but looks can be deceiving!) |
Our night ended when I could not swallow more rice anymore. As much as I want to shove more paneer into my mouth, I just can't feel my tongue anymore. The minute that it happened I can't wait to go home and gurgle some milk to take away the burning sensation.
It was a good mouth torture, but I will definitely do it again and again and again...besides, I always have a carton of milk standing by.
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