10 Things I Learned in my 10 Years in Dubai

Today marks my 10th year in Dubai.

It was on March 29, 2008 that I flew from the Philippines to get my first ever UAE entry stamp on my passport. I can still remember how fast my heartbeat was while queueing at the immigration. It was my first solo out of the country trip and it wasn't just for a simple sightseeing. It was a serious move that could change my life forever! 

While waiting for my turn, I was silently repeating my cousin's mobile number and address. I should be able to say those confidently when the immigration officer asks. Frail and much shyer than ever, I took a deep breath and walked towards the counter. I anxiously smiled, gave my passport and my paper visa. I waited for a question, but he did not say a word. All I heard was a thump sound from the stamp.

And just like that, I was welcomed to Dubai!

10 years and more heart racing memories later, I still consider moving to Dubai as one of the best decisions I have ever made. This move has opened my eyes to the realities of life.

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Dear Dubai Newbie: A Letter from a Filipina Expat who is celebrating her 9th Year in Dubai

Dear Dubai Newbie,

Marhaba!

You might be surprised with this letter. You don't know me, and I am not in the position to welcome you in this mega-city. But today is special; hence, I'm writing this letter down whether you'll read it or not. I hope you'll read though. 

Today, exactly 9 years ago, I was like you. I got off an Emirates airplane and step foot in Dubai for the first time. Finally having a taste of independence at 25, I was excited, but tremendously scared. 

Looking back now, I want to give my younger self a pat on the back for taking that initial step. It was a bold move that prepared me to a lot of crazy beautiful changes, so please allow me to share some unsolicited advice today.

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Quick and Healthy Home-Cooked Meals with DinnerTime

Though Ed and I enjoy the comforts of dining out, my husband is the happiest when I cook! I'm not a kitchen expert. I hate spending long hours in the kitchen, most especially when I have to stay a little late at work or have a load of blogger tasks. I also get frustrated when my home-cooked dish doesn't turn out the way it should be! Despite of that, I still try my very best to serve something nice on the table. But since I am a wife-on-the-go, I sometimes end up preparing the easiest (quite unhealthy, most likely fried) meal.  

Then, last week, I was introduced to the concept of DinnerTime; an international company started by three Swedish women who are striving to maintain work-life balance just like me! DinnerTime offers four quick and healthy recipes per week. They deliver the freshest ingredients right at your door step with easy-to-follow recipe that only requires half an hour to prepare. DinnerTime makes cooking wholesome meals easier. 

  

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On Going Out Solo and On Eataly's Piadina To-go

If you have stumbled upon this post while searching for a good review of Eataly at The Dubai Mall, I'm sorry you're not on the right page! But, I do promise that I'd be back with a better blog post solely for the new Italian market place soon. For now, here's more of a personal post with a bit of Eataly on the side.

Last Monday, I gladly gave in to Cosmopolitan Philippines' dare for all the Cosmo Chicks to "hoof it solo once in awhile". It's such a shame, but I have to admit that I somehow became clingy and not as independent as before. Though I do have my me-time, it's usually within my zone and around friends. I haven't really been alone for the longest time in this big tough world. So, I challenged myself and went to the mall just across our home for a quick solo lunch. It wasn't as excruciating as I thought it would be, in fact I was loving the state of solitude I was in.

I took the liberating feeling a notch higher and decided to spend the rest of the afternoon at one of the largest shopping malls in the world, all by myself for the very first time! At The Dubai Mall, I went to the shops that I love without being worried that someone might get bored waiting for me. It was finally a day for me, myself and I. Then I noticed Eataly, a new Italian store at the lower ground level and immediately remembered my husband who greatly loves authentic Italian cuisine.

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Dine for a Cause

It has been a tough, but very inspiring week. Behind the tragic tale caused by the super Typhoon Haiyan or Yolanda in the Philippines are stories of love, courage, hope and faith. I am amazed by the overwhelming support that my country has received from other nations. I am also very grateful that the concept of 'bayanihan' is still alive in this modern age and time. 

Here in the UAE, there are so many people willing to help. Fund-raising activities happened last weekend and a lot more in the coming weeks. One of the activities is the Fiesta for a Cause organized by Noemi, a kind-hearted Filipina expatriate in Dubai, the blogger behind one of my favorite travel blogs www.pinayflyinghigh.com. The lunch/dinner for a cause will be held at Rosso Amore restaurant and proceeds will go to World Vision. Please check the flyer for more details.     

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Featured in InterNations

I have just received an early birthday present!!! :)

Lady and her Sweet Escapes is now bearing the "Top Expat Blog-Dubai" badge from InterNations! Can somebody pinch me, please?  I have seen that lovely badge on the blogs that I look up to and I just can't believe that it is now in the right side bar of my little pink 1-year old blog.

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