Apparently some ENOC gas stations have become self-service stations starting today. When I first read about this about a week ago, my initial thought was "oh...the UAE has finally discovered the notion of self-service"....
Having lived in Montreal, I'm used to serving myself at gas stations...No biggie...right? OK so I'll have to get out of my car, fill up my gas, then walk up to the store to pay for it...In a way, I'd much rather that than wait 3 minutes until the attendant is available to fill up my fuel, then wait another 3 minutes after my car's filled up for him to come take my money. Eventually, this will benefit the gas stations because they'll be able to fill up more gas for more cars.
But it seems that some people are completely against the idea for many reasons...One of them is the heat: getting out of the car, in the heat, to fill up gas, is not exactly enchanting some people... Not sure if this is a valid enough reason though, I mean, temperatures DO reach -30 in Montreal, and yet people still get out of their cars to fill up gas.
One thing that would be a deterrent to me is the payment system, which is just backwards! Here's how it's going to work:
- You pay the amount you'd like to fill up at the store
- You then proceed to fill up your car
- The pump will automatically stop once it reaches the amount you've paid for
- If you fill up less than you've paid, you get refunded for the balance
Complicated if you ask me! How am I supposed to know how much I need to pay if I'd like to fill up my gas tank, but it's not quite empty? And why the inconvenience of having to go to the counter TWICE if I've paid too much? Why can't gas stations follow the North American system of filling up your tank, paying then leaving? Or better yet, you stick your debit/credit card into the pump, and it automatically deducts the amount?
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Sunday, August 10, 2008
More metro developments
As I was driving from Abu Dhabi to Dubai this morning, I noticed a bridge that crossed Sheikh Zayed road... It surprised me a bit because I didn't recall seeing it last week...but then again, I could have been distracted or not really paying attention to my surroundings.
But then I read this article and it explained it all!
It seems that I wasn't so distracted after all, and that the bridge was practically installed overnight! Pretty amazing:
I had also always wondered how people would get from one side of Sheikh Zayed road to the other when taking the metro...and now I know :) One more question remains: how will people get to wherever it is they need to get to once they've stopped at a station? So say, for example, I take the metro and I stop at the Greens station....I then need to get to my place which is around 6 streets away...Now I know 6 streets doesn't sound like much, but keep in mind that:
a) Streets are pretty big here
b) Temperatures are unbearable in the summer
Will there be shuttle buses? How will this work?
But then I read this article and it explained it all!
It seems that I wasn't so distracted after all, and that the bridge was practically installed overnight! Pretty amazing:
The approved installation method involves full pre-assembly of the footbridge including the main structure of the bridge, the external cladding, internal fixtures and finishes, and electrical and mechanical items.
I had also always wondered how people would get from one side of Sheikh Zayed road to the other when taking the metro...and now I know :) One more question remains: how will people get to wherever it is they need to get to once they've stopped at a station? So say, for example, I take the metro and I stop at the Greens station....I then need to get to my place which is around 6 streets away...Now I know 6 streets doesn't sound like much, but keep in mind that:
a) Streets are pretty big here
b) Temperatures are unbearable in the summer
Will there be shuttle buses? How will this work?
Friday, August 01, 2008
Random stuff
Been back from my vacation for around 3 weeks now, and it feels like I've never left! Good thing I have anoter small vacation coming up in 3 weeks...Yay!
A few random things that I just want to get off my chest:
- Damn it's hot! Is it just me, or has it gotten hotter and more humid MUCH earlier this year compared to previous years? I mean, I remember that in previous years, it was the months of August and September that were really bad.... Maybe we just forget!
- I am sick and tired of the fact that the exit that leads to the Greens, which is where I live, is the last free exit before Salik. This means that all the construction vehicles go through it to avoid paying 4Dhs, because the companies they work for are probably too cheap to pay the Salik tolls. This means that traffic at the entrance of the Greens usually moves at snail's pace, at any given time. Last time, I got stuck there for 30 minutes at 8:30PM! There's not supposed to be any traffic at 8:30PM!!!
- I've noticed that there are a couple of cars in my car park that have been there for a couple of years now, untouched. It's as if the owners just picked up and left. And the cars are still there, gathering dust. I know that if a car is left untouched for a few months on the main road, cops eventually will tow it away. But what happens to cars in car parks? Who's responsible for them?
- My Du saga is still ongoing. It's gotten worse actually. They cut my line while I was away on holiday. I've called them again twice since I've been back. The problem is unresolved as of yet.
- After living in Dubai for more than 3 years, I had forgotten how it feels when you get great customer service. Especially when it comes to banking. While in Montreal, I had to call my bank there for some information. Here I was thinking I had to get an appointment, go to the bank and spend time with some advisor....But no. All I had to do was speak to a very knowledgeable customer service representative on the phone, who then told me that any transaction I needed to make could be done immediately on the web! A far cry from banking in the UAE, where you have to go the bank to fill up a form to get access to online banking!
- Here's a great thing about living in the UAE: low cost of telecommunications! I got a Montreal number while I was there, and it was so expensive! I wasn't making many calls... only necessary ones to get in touch with friends... But I must have spent around $100 on phone cards in 10 days! Ridiculous! And the other ridiculous thing is that you pay for the calls that you make as well as the calls you receive!!!
- Does anyone know if August 6th is an official day off (the day HH Sheikh Zayed became president in 1966)? I wouldn't mind another long weekend :)
That's it for now. I've rambled enough as it is. Be back soon!
A few random things that I just want to get off my chest:
- Damn it's hot! Is it just me, or has it gotten hotter and more humid MUCH earlier this year compared to previous years? I mean, I remember that in previous years, it was the months of August and September that were really bad.... Maybe we just forget!
- I am sick and tired of the fact that the exit that leads to the Greens, which is where I live, is the last free exit before Salik. This means that all the construction vehicles go through it to avoid paying 4Dhs, because the companies they work for are probably too cheap to pay the Salik tolls. This means that traffic at the entrance of the Greens usually moves at snail's pace, at any given time. Last time, I got stuck there for 30 minutes at 8:30PM! There's not supposed to be any traffic at 8:30PM!!!
- I've noticed that there are a couple of cars in my car park that have been there for a couple of years now, untouched. It's as if the owners just picked up and left. And the cars are still there, gathering dust. I know that if a car is left untouched for a few months on the main road, cops eventually will tow it away. But what happens to cars in car parks? Who's responsible for them?
- My Du saga is still ongoing. It's gotten worse actually. They cut my line while I was away on holiday. I've called them again twice since I've been back. The problem is unresolved as of yet.
- After living in Dubai for more than 3 years, I had forgotten how it feels when you get great customer service. Especially when it comes to banking. While in Montreal, I had to call my bank there for some information. Here I was thinking I had to get an appointment, go to the bank and spend time with some advisor....But no. All I had to do was speak to a very knowledgeable customer service representative on the phone, who then told me that any transaction I needed to make could be done immediately on the web! A far cry from banking in the UAE, where you have to go the bank to fill up a form to get access to online banking!
- Here's a great thing about living in the UAE: low cost of telecommunications! I got a Montreal number while I was there, and it was so expensive! I wasn't making many calls... only necessary ones to get in touch with friends... But I must have spent around $100 on phone cards in 10 days! Ridiculous! And the other ridiculous thing is that you pay for the calls that you make as well as the calls you receive!!!
- Does anyone know if August 6th is an official day off (the day HH Sheikh Zayed became president in 1966)? I wouldn't mind another long weekend :)
That's it for now. I've rambled enough as it is. Be back soon!
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
CNN's most viewed story today?
This one!
The Michelle & Vince after-shocks have begun!
Not sure if this is newsworthy enough to have it be on CNN, but I guess that:
a) It's a slow newsday for the CNN team
b) Any mention of Dubai these days will generate interest...
The Michelle & Vince after-shocks have begun!
Not sure if this is newsworthy enough to have it be on CNN, but I guess that:
a) It's a slow newsday for the CNN team
b) Any mention of Dubai these days will generate interest...
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Hello...Goodbye...
Been out of touch for a while. The past couple of weeks have been hectic...trainings, meetings, big projects, not much sleep!
But the good news is, I've got a vacation coming up! Unlike previous years where, by the time I'd take my vacation in August, I'd usually be drained physically, mentally, emotionally...This year, I'm actually shocked at how soon my vacation's coming up! It's almost as if I am not tired enough to be going on vacation :) But hey, I'll take the break anyway!
And the best part is, I'll be taking another short vacation end of summer...so when I come back, I'll have something else to look forward to! Woohoo!
Still, I won't completely ignore this blog while I'm gone...I'll try to write some posts over the next couple of weeks, so stay tuned!
But the good news is, I've got a vacation coming up! Unlike previous years where, by the time I'd take my vacation in August, I'd usually be drained physically, mentally, emotionally...This year, I'm actually shocked at how soon my vacation's coming up! It's almost as if I am not tired enough to be going on vacation :) But hey, I'll take the break anyway!
And the best part is, I'll be taking another short vacation end of summer...so when I come back, I'll have something else to look forward to! Woohoo!
Still, I won't completely ignore this blog while I'm gone...I'll try to write some posts over the next couple of weeks, so stay tuned!
Sunday, June 01, 2008
Dubai's (not so secret) nightlife
A friend posted a link on Facebook about this PBS/Frontline documentary on prostitution in Dubai. Nothing new, nothing we didn't really know of or see before, but still, it shocks me that this sort of thing is happening in my backyard (well...almost!)
Dubai's so good at showcasing its glittery, shiny, modern side, we often forget (or choose to forget) about the seedy nightlife. And although I am horrified and disgusted by what these women have to go through, this documentary did make me wonder whether there really is a "good side" to prostitution, as stipulated by the reporter...meaning that prostitution keeps the rest of us women safe while keeping the men satisfied. Sad....but true.
(PS: Click on Watch Video to see the 12 minute documentary)
Dubai's so good at showcasing its glittery, shiny, modern side, we often forget (or choose to forget) about the seedy nightlife. And although I am horrified and disgusted by what these women have to go through, this documentary did make me wonder whether there really is a "good side" to prostitution, as stipulated by the reporter...meaning that prostitution keeps the rest of us women safe while keeping the men satisfied. Sad....but true.
(PS: Click on Watch Video to see the 12 minute documentary)
Sunday, May 25, 2008
It's almost here! The Dubai Metro
The Dubai Metro is almost here. There was apparently a test run in Jebel Ali a couple of weeks ago. Still...we'll have to wait another year and a half almost before people like you and me get to experience the metro system.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Abu Dhabi always seems to get it right
I was at the Bon Jovi concert last night at the Emirates Palace, and yet again, the organization was flawless. This was also the case at the Justin Timerblake concert last December (and apparently at the Elton John concert in January, which I did not attend).
It took all of 15 minutes to get to the Emirates Palace, parking was widely available, we walked to the wristband exchange area, got our wristbands in 7 minutes, and walked into the venue. A far cry from the Shakira concert last year.
The police were there, directing traffic, making sure there was no congestion. Security was efficient and quick. Service at the VIP hospitality tent was impeccable. The Emirates Palace is really ideal for such an event, thanks to its immense lawn which easily accommodated over 19,000 fans last night.
The concert itself was also incredible. I went there with no expectations, but came out of the concert truly impressed (and with a slight crush on Jon...)
Bon Jovi are real performers, and although I'm not too fond of their newer stuff, they did belt out a lot of their classics such as Living on a prayer, I'll be there for you, Bed of roses, Keep the faith and In these arms (but no Blaze of Glory or Always unfortunately).
Yet again, Abu Dhabi has proven itself as a city that can attract big names and organize great events. So who's next?
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
An inspiration
I do not know the Dasmals, and I do not know Negin, but a friend of mine forwarded this blog to me, with a warning: "it's sad...don't read if you don't want to cry".
But I read it, and yes it's sad, but it's also an inspiration. Negin, a young businesswoman who is the driving force behind successful ventures such as N-Bar and 1847 Men's Spa in Emirates Towers was recently diagnosed with cancer, while pregnant with her fourth child.
Her husband writes weekly updates, informing us about Negin's treatment and progress, and how the family has adjusted to the situation.
The way Negin has been dealing with her illness, and the way her husband has been supporting her throughout her ordeal is truly touching, moving, inspiring and it definitely makes you put things in perspective.
Suddenly, that annoying colleague, or the daily traffic, or that unresponsive telecom provider are no longer a priority... Rather, your focus shifts to the important things in life: family, friends, health...
Here's hoping that Negin stays strong in her fight against cancer, and that the members of this lovely, loving family always stay there for each other.
But I read it, and yes it's sad, but it's also an inspiration. Negin, a young businesswoman who is the driving force behind successful ventures such as N-Bar and 1847 Men's Spa in Emirates Towers was recently diagnosed with cancer, while pregnant with her fourth child.
Her husband writes weekly updates, informing us about Negin's treatment and progress, and how the family has adjusted to the situation.
The way Negin has been dealing with her illness, and the way her husband has been supporting her throughout her ordeal is truly touching, moving, inspiring and it definitely makes you put things in perspective.
Suddenly, that annoying colleague, or the daily traffic, or that unresponsive telecom provider are no longer a priority... Rather, your focus shifts to the important things in life: family, friends, health...
Here's hoping that Negin stays strong in her fight against cancer, and that the members of this lovely, loving family always stay there for each other.
Thursday, May 01, 2008
Someone at Du obviously doesn't care...
...because I called again to explain my situation after not hearing from them for about 10 days. That was towards the end of last week, and the customer service representative listened to my story and said that he will make sure someone calls me back regarding the outstanding amount of Dhs 1200 that magically appeared on my bill.
I'm not going to even think of paying that bill until I get an explanation from someone, somewhere....And I don't care if they cut my phone line...I'll still have my mobile...with good ol' Etisalat :)
I'm not going to even think of paying that bill until I get an explanation from someone, somewhere....And I don't care if they cut my phone line...I'll still have my mobile...with good ol' Etisalat :)
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