Garderobe; Pre-loved Designer Accessories

Hey Loves,

I hope you all enjoyed Thanksgiving Day with your family and friends. Yesterday was the first time I've been "alone" on Thanksgiving. Typically my sister and I spend the weekend together but last year I declared to do something different... and this year, different it was. I celebrated in my new home with my new love in Abu Dhabi.

This post comes as a bit of a cheat and treat. I figured I would stay in on the traditional day of Black Friday shopping because I have a weekend away next week, so last week, I treated myself to an early day of shopping in Dubai.

While out, I bumped into one of my social media pals, Alona, in Dubai and she said that she had a treat for me. Being that Alona has lived in the UAE for three years, she knows a lot about the hidden treasures in the Emirate. The treasure that she introduced me to was Garderobe Vintage & Pre-Loved Designer Wear. 

Garderobe is an accessory queens dream. I can't say that I'm much of a fashionista but I am an ACCESSORY-NISTA. I positively and absolutely love all accessories. I love shopping for handbags, earrings, clutches, scarfs, shoes, and all types of jewelry. Garderobe completely satisfied each one of my accessory senses.

This boutique drips in sophistication. It reminds me of a shop that I would see in Manhattan, off Rodeo, or Buckhead-Atlanta. There are a variety of designers represented; Hermes, Chanel, Marc Jacobs, Prada, Gucci, and the list goes on. 

The boutique has two levels. The bottom level has a large collection of handbags, jewelry, clothing, and small selection of shoes. The upper level has a large collection of shoes, evening gowns, and a lovely changing room. Though the shop sells "pre-loved" items, I found that many of the items, particularly the shoes, were never worn or used. I saw three cute pair of LV and Prada loafers that would be perfect for work or a casual stroll in the city. Of course, the stylish shoe section did not disappoint with head-turning heels and one-of-kind kicks.

We were most gracious to the owner, Micha, for allowing her assistant to show us around the boutique  after hours. Because of her kindness and willingness to accommodate new customers, the store gets 5 stars on service. Impeccable customer service drives small business. A great selection, location, and service has made me a life long customer of Garderobe Vintage & Pre-loved Wear.

Check out more pics here.

Tags: "Garderobe" "shopping in Dubai" "designer handbags" "vintage in Dubai" 

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Happy Thanksgiving 2012

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Living Abroad; Bed Hopping pt. 2

 Lobby of the Sheraton Abu Dhabi Hotel & Resort

Hey loves,

Once again, I decided a frolic around Abu Dhabi; part business, some personal. As a person who lives in the Western Region of Abu Dhabi, (Al Gharbia) coming into the city is a curse and blessing. Because the Western Region is very rural and there is little access to municipalities, so coming into Abu Dhabi is a must.

During this trek, I decided to stay at the Sheraton Abu Dhabi Resort & Hotel. I liked its location within the city and proximity to Marina Mall. I also selected this location because of brand familiarity. I've stayed a few Sheraton Hotels in the states and figures all are about the same... and they are, kind of.

Upon entering the lobby of the Sheraton Abu Dhabi, I was immediately reminded that I am indeed in Abu Dhabi. I expected the same modern decor as the states, but as you see, it is tricked out as only the Emirati would have it; ornate and slightly gaudy, IMO.

I am not a fan of ornate decor, so this one gets the side eye. However, it's appealing to the locals, clean, and I was greeted with the freshest class of lemonade.

The rooms are a lot smaller than I expected. Because I was traveling with a colleague, we decided to share a room. We asking for two double beds, the beds are so close together. Imagine our surprise when we noticed how close we would be sleeping. Umm, way too intimate for a working relationship, but um, the room was already paid for and getting a refund here takes an act of God.

The corridors were a bit too dark for my taste and it somewhat reminded me of the movie "The Shining". Feeling like you're in a scene of "The Shining" is NOT the feeling that one wants to have in a hotel, but again, I pressed on because getting a refund in this country requires the approval of God.

The bed was comfortable but the pillows were horrendous. I had neck cramps and a painful headache because of the pillows.

The balcony was a small Julian Balcony but served its purpose. 

It seems that most of the money was spent on the bathrooms, which is good because a bad bathroom is completely unacceptable.

 The too close for comfort twin beds.

Look at the little office nook. I love this part. It is always my expectation that I am going to come here and get lots of writing and blogging done.... doesn't happen. (though I am penning this post from the very nook).

Since I took the initial pictures, I've stayed at this hotel three times. It's pleasant for the most part but again, the pillows are horrid. I love that it's minutes away from shopping and the beach. The room service is great as well as the dinner from Bravo and El Sombero; restaurants in the hotel.

I am a SPG member but I don't understand the perks like I get at other hotels in the area. I prefer immediate perks like the Rotana chains offer. Because of that, I may put Sheraton Abu Dhabi on the back burner for a while.

See more photos here.

Happily bed hopping.....

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Living Abroad; Dating & Travel

Hey loves,

I hope all is well with you. Things are going well for me and I am truly getting into my experience. It's almost mid-November, President Obama was re-elected, it's almost Thanksgiving, National Day, and then the trimester will be over. We have 3 weeks off for break and I am going to travel a bit. I'm excited about my trip to Rome, then home, then finally ringing in the new year in Paris.

Within all of this excitement is a hint of sadness. My three weeks away from Abu Dhabi means three weeks away from my honey. 

You guys: YOUR HONEY

Me: Yes my honey

When I moved to Abu Dhabi, I wondered how the dating scene would be. Being that this is a Muslim and somewhat conservative country, I thought the dating process would be tough and hard to navigate. I've heard a range of tales; women dating Emirati men for riches instead of love, dating for convenience, the assumption that black women are prostitutes, being a 2nd or possibly a 3rd wife, or perhaps truly finding a life partner. Like home, in the US, the dating scene yields a variety of people and experiences. Unlike home, there is a wealth of interracial dating especially in Dubai.

I am completely open to dating across racial lines because it offers a broader pool and a greater chance of finding my Mr. I've never held to the notion that my Mr. had to be African-American therefore, I somewhat expected to date outside my race once I arrived. 

I have received a few emails from African-American women who seek employment here and inquire about dating. I always express that an open mind is needed (professionally & personally) and if you're looking for your prince to be African-American, this may not be the place to find him. There are African-American men here but not in abundance. In addition, like home, they are dating outside their race as well, or dating on the side because they are married. (Just my opinion) Therefore, I strongly encourage African-American women to become open to new dating possibilities.

Courtship in the UAE is a bit traditional and conservative. I've met a few guys and none of their approaches were overt. Each meeting was subtle and respectful which left a lot of mystery and cause to want further engagement. However, only one of the guys truly caught my eye. I would see him out often and there would be an extended greeting or slight rub on the hand and the glances between us became longer. One day, by chance, we exchanged phone numbers, texted, went on a date, and haven't been apart sense. 

Dating here is certainly not impossible. In fact, most ladies in my circle are dating or have dated. They are all open to dating men other than African American. One dated an Egyptian, a Pakistani, Indian, a guy from South America, a white British, and an Emirati. The experiences vary but being open to new experiences have afforded them and me, the opportunity for dating, romance, and love.

Tags: "love" "romance" "dating in Abu Dhabi" "dating in the UAE" "ADEC" "teaching in Abu Dhabi"

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America's Vote 2012

Tags: "Obama2012", "2012" "Obama" "vote 2012"

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November; 30 days of thanks

There's something about November that encourages people to reflect on the things that they are thankful for. In the blogging community, many are accepting the challenge to post daily notes of thanks and gratitude. As much as my heart wants to do this, I know my schedule plus procrastination won't allow for such; so I shall cheat a bit...and compile one post. 

Reginia's 30 items of gratitude and thanks;

1. My spiritual connection 
2. My mom, step-father, and late father. They are kind, gentle, smart, and giving.
3. My sister. I have the best sister ever.

     4. My wisdom

     5. University education

     6. Acquaintances

     7. Ability to travel

     8. Home ownership

     9. Common sense

   10. An open heart

  11. The internet

  12. My PC

  13. My MacBook Pro

  14. The wisdom of my Grandma O

  15. A driver's license

  16. The option to vote

  17. My sunglass collection

  18. My coffee cup collection

  

  19. Starbucks

  20. Super Target

  21. Friendships

  22. My height

23. Talkatone and MagicJack Plus so I can make free calls the US.

24. The United States of America

25. Great leadership

26. Mentors

27. Other smart people

28. My blogger buddies

29. Good credit

30. The ability to be thankful and have gratitude.

  

Tags: "health" "relationships" "love" "November" "gratitude" "thankful"

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Eid Mubarak; Celebrations and Weekend

Last week, I participated in my first Eid Mubarak. It was absolutely one of the best times that I've had since moving to the UAE.

I searched the web for a while trying to find an accurate and acceptable translation for Eid Mubarak and this is what I found via ILM.com.

Eid refers to the occasion itself, and Mubarak means ‘Blessed’.
Throughout the Muslim world there are numerous other ways of greeting for Eid ul-Adha and Eid ul-Fitr.
Eid is an Arabic term meaning “festivity” or “celebration.” Muslims celebrate two major religious holidays, known as Eid al-Fitr (which takes place after Ramadan), and Eid al-Adha (which occurs at the time of the Hajj).

It was quite festive around the Emirates. We had celebrations at work and within the city. The students all received a gifts, money, a huge feast, and had lots of fun. All of the mothers came out to support the school and I loved how everyone had a great time.

Because Eid Mubarak is a "holiday", we had days off from work. I originally wanted to take a trip out of town but I decided to hang out in Dubai instead. Dubai is an amazing city. It is so diverse and has lots to do. The shopping is abundant, the night clubs remind you of Miami Beach, LA, and even NYC. The general feel of Dubai is very welcoming to say the least. It's a city that has everything you want and in a variety of flavors.

Fortunately and unfortunately I was sucked into Dubai Mall. My intension was to go for two things; a camera cord and lunch. Wellllll, it turned into an entire day of shopping, eating, pictures, and socializing. Dubai Mall is the largest mall in the world and for this reason, I should have known that dropping in for two things wasn't going to happen.

One corridor of Dubai Mall has all of the designer stores. Outside of the Hermes Store is this large Hermes bag that you can walk through. It's quite the attraction because many people stop for a picture; including my friends and me.

A true fashionista would have had a fantastic time in this corridor. It had everything from Tom Ford to Dior to Louis Vuitton. To my amazement, many of these stores were very crowded. The mall also has traditional stores like Bloomingdales, Tiffany's, Gap, and even Payless Shoes.

Snack time and break spots are needed in Dubai Mall. A quick coffee or cupcake does the trip every time. This is the cutest cupcake shop (they serve coffee too- YES!). The female workers wear pink wigs, pink trousers, and a black top. The seating area is pink and black and is positioned in front of the aquarium. 

(FLASHBACK)

Before heading to Dubai, I stopped at Marina Mall in Abu Dhabi to get my list of spa treatments. After, I needed a little snack from Lips Cafe.

(BACK TO DUBAI)

I'm not sure if I can ever properly explain all things Dubai. The city is just extraordinary.

Of course the weekend had to end and back to work I went.

If you'd like to see more picture, please stop by my FB Page. I also have September and October pics of the day upload.

Tags: "Dubai" "Eid Mubarak" "Dubai Mall" "Lips Cafe" "Project Cupcake" "ADEC" "teacher in Abu Dhabi" "Abu Dhabi Teacher" "teacher for ADEC" "teach away" "teach anywhere"

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