EXPAT DIARIES: CHELLIE – ILONGGA IN DUBAI

 Wikipedia) ‘An Expatriate (often shortened to Expat) is a person temporarily or permanently residing in a country other than that of their citizenship. The word comes from the Latin terms ex (“out of”) and patria (“country, fatherland”).

This blog aims to discover people who are adventurers like me, venturing out in a new place to call home and creating memories. I have previously lived with my parents and siblings in the Saudi Arabia when I was in high school. I have enjoyed and cherished my memories in the beautiful Sandbox I once called my home. Now, I am in a new adventure with my husband and son here in Singapore.

I am featuring Expats in different countries every two weeks to share their experiences and adventures with you and me.

Today’s featured expat is fellow Ilongga. Meet the pretty Chellie who is now in Dubai ”

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1. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and where you are originally from?

My name is Chellie, I am 26 years old and I came from Iloilo City Philippines. Currently, I work as Beauty Advisor for Burberry in Dubai International Airport.

2. What made you move to Dubai? How long have you been there?

To be honest, moving to Dubai was a long forgotten “plan”. Way back in college Dubai was starting to wow the world, and I had adventures in mind to work and explore a new world. I had a stable job right after college so I kind of put it aside. Then after several years of working in Iloilo I met up with an old friend who came from Dubai and learned that it was full of opportunities and adventure. I visualized my college dream again and decided to give it a shot. This is my third year in Dubai and I always thank God for giving me strength everyday.

3. What do you miss about your home country?

The food of course! haha! Sure, it’s easy to find Filipino stores and make my own versions of my mom’s dishes, but nothing beats home cooked meals after a long day at work. My palate is still not used to a lot of dishes here, and thanks to that I have learned to cook meals I want without Skyping my mom or YouTube.

I miss also the times where I can bond with my family and friends anytime. Here I have to consider the time difference and the schedules just to call them and ask how their day went.

4. What are the wonderful discoveries and things you like about Dubai?

Dubai has a lot to offer. I mean a lot! I haven’t even visited half of the places here. The tourists destinations, beaches, malls and parks are among the nicest place to see. Dubai is very welcoming to tourists making it even easy and convenient to tour the city. Recently as we celebrated Christmas, they made a Snow Park in Souq Madinat, one of the luxury hotel resorts near the famous Burj Al Arab. There, people from all walks of life had the chance to experience the Spirit of Christmas. There they had a food festival, Christmas music filled the air and gingerbread houses were decorated by children and adult alike. It was amazing.

5. What are the 3 tips you can give to fellow expats in Dubai or those you planning to move there?

Be flexible. Anything can happen here, so always be ready.

Always save money. Honestly we cannot be here forever, so might as well save money. Sale and shopping are your frenemies here- it never ends and it’s very tempting; but as for me, I learned the difference between want and need.

Travel. Dubai is a transit hub for a lot of countries, especially Europe. So take the opportunity to travel once in a while to travel.

6. I have lived in Middle East before and I realised many misconceptions about living in the Middle East. Can you share with us some misconceptions in living in the Middle East?

When I was new here, I thought Dubai was like in the stories- men are feared and women have little rights. But I was surprised that times have changed. Women here have careers, they drive cars and treated with respect. We even have a special cabin in trains and buses. People here are opening up to the idea that everyone has the right to live their life.

7. The LITTLE MISS HONEY community gets inspired through travel, food and books. Can you tell us your current FAVOURITE TRAVEL SPOT, current FAVORITE FOOD/RESTAURANT DISCOVERIES & current FAVORITE BOOK?

During my free time, usually I go to The Beach at Jumeirah- it’s like a food strip and shopping destination in one near the Jumeirah Beach Residences. It’s convenient to go to and I love the relaxing ambience it offers. The best part is strolling in the shore! Currently they are constructing the Dubai Eye- similar to the London Eye.

As for fave restaurant, hmmm. now that it’s winter me and my boyfriend are craving for something with soup and Asian flavors. Our comfort food is The Noodle House, an authentic Asian restaurant. My favorite is the Pad Thai noodles and recently I discovered they serve Laksa too!!! I was so happy because it’s my favorite noodle soup dish!

Recently I haven’t had the time to read, and I have a lot of books on queue. Still my favorite is Paulo Coelho’s the Alchemist.

8. Can you share with us your favorite makeup products?

Okay so my latest fave and essential is the Burberry Luminous Fluid Base in Nude Radiance. It’s not just a face primer, it’s a hydrating make up base which gives your skin an effortless glow. I absolutely love it! I love contouring and highlighting, so another of my fave is the Burberry Highlighting luminous pen and contouring pen. Very easy to apply even for daily use whether in a hurry or not. And lastly, I love how red lipstick brightens any look.

9. What are your three favorite travel essentials?
Scarf- it always comes in handy during flights when you suddenly feel cold and still look fashionable

Neck pillow- for that comfy snooze minus the stiff neck

A good book always comes in handy

10. Where do you get your inspirations? Who or what inspires you?

I am always thankful for where I am now and for what I have become. I never thought I would be this independent in my life. My family always inspires me to do more and always give back to those who helped me. Even if tired and sometimes homesick, I always think of how happy I make them feel.

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Thank you Chellie for sharing your Dubai story with us….

If you are an expat or know any expats who are interested to be featured, drop me a line at littlemisshoneyblog@gmail.com.”