Tag Archives: Dubai Mummy blogger

The Safari Collection | A fact finding breakfast

Most families I know are curious about safaris, but as everyone knows they are not a cheap holiday but they are a great education investment and experience for all the family so picking the right one is crucial.  For some families it will be a once in a lifetime experience.  How do you know the one that you chose is the right one without relying too heavily on travel agents?

Henrietta, from the The Safari Collection’s marketing team, who lives in Giraffe Manor, was in Dubai last week to co-host with Jessica Hudson of Hudsons Travel and Seashells on the Palm a breakfast to explain more about the properties in its collection, and to show a stunning and inspiring video of the various lodges including the world famous Giraffe Manor, a sanctuary for giraffes.  Typical questions that mums asked during the breakfast included the right age for children, the vaccinations requirements, flight time to Nairobi from Dubai.  We had previously interviewed the owner of The Safari Collection, Tanya Carr-Hartley, a mum of 4, who kindly answered these questions.  For more in-dept detail about travelling with children click on the link to read our Q&A with Tanya.

If you are located in in the UAE, please contact Jessica Hudson and her team who look after The Safari Collection.  For more information please go to www.hudsons-travel.com or email hello@hudsons-travel.com

For more information on The Safari Collection, please visit www.thesafaricollection.com or email Tanya and her team at info@thesafaricollection.com

Cuddledry | The award winning towel brand for children

This is the amazing award winning brand from the UK that launched from Dragon’s Den in 2007 by two long term mum friends. Most people know I love natural and organic as far as possible and this brand fits right in.  The towel fabric has been created from unbleached cotton and natural bamboo fibre, and it stays soft after washing.  The great advantage about the bamboo is that it absorbs 60% better than cotton with a natural antibacterial, and the apron means no stress of taking the baby out of the bath when you are alone at home.

My older children also loved the ‘dress up’ towels.  Bath time has now taken a little longer as they have the Cuddlepony and Cuddledeer – they are clipped around the neck so they run around the room pretending to be the animals.  The towels stay on thanks to the button attaching the towels like a cape so they don’t fall off.  It gives me sufficient time to get to bath cost centre number 4 as the older three are completely absorbed in their own games.  My little girl loves her hair towel, saved us from a lot of dripping on pillows close to bedtime. “It’s my wig, Mama” she says.

Honestly, a must if you are a first time mum to get the apron towel.  Or they are fantastic presents to give for birthdays and Christmas.

Cuddledry Dubai can be purchased from Bumblebee Dubai Mall, DbBabies, (Town Centre and Arabia Centre in Dubai and Muhaisnah, Al Wahda Mall in Abu dhabi), and www.babysouk.com 

Journey into Africa | Chantelle’s Spring/Summer 2015 Beachwear Collection | Dubai

Chantelle Paris has launched its new Spring/Summer 2015 Beachwear collection.

Summer is just around the corner, and it’s time to start picking out new swimwear.  I learnt from a girlfriend to always shop in advance and not in a rush – it’s a way to save money in the long run.  I found this to be very true so I am picking out one or two pieces in advance before the mad summer rush when school is out.

This season, Chantelle has drawn its inspiration from Africa with modern prints and harmonious colour combinations. Plain lines in vibrant colours are set off by chic details, while the two-tone and tri-colour designs give the collection a refined sense. Wooden accessories add a jungle feel whilst metal ones add a touch of light. As always the attention to detail and finishes underline the characteristics and quality of the Chantelle brand.

Chantelle swim wear range is available exclusively at Galleries Lafayette at Dubai Mall.

Baby Leonardo reviews The Boba Carrier 4G Vail

I started having children 6 years ago, and The Boba Carrier was not an available option.  I used a baby bjorn for many years with the 4 children, and it has worn well until now so it has been definitely a good investment.  The problem with the baby bjorn that it works for me only for a limited time with my children.  By 8 months, my shoulders feel sore with the baby bjorn after a short walk as all the weight is all on your upper body.  As an infant carrier I still rate the baby bjorn as it is quick to get in and out of airports and aeroplanes but after 8 months to 1 year I had to switch to other alternatives.

The Boba baby carrier has been tested by baby Leonardo and dad. (the ultimate test).  Leonardo finds the carrier very comfortable, and he feels like he is in hammock and is lulled into a slumber easily.  My husband also finds it comfortable but he would prefer to use it in a mall or abroad in colder countries as the Boba is made from strong and thick fabric and finds it too warm so would prefer the baby bjorn for a hot and humimd walk on the beach.  For me, I thought that the baby’s weight was more evenly spread across my body as the majority of the weight is on the waist and shoulders, and I could carry him for longer on the Boba carrier.  I also love the feeling that the Boba gives which is ‘the hug’ because of the position  you are carrying the child.  In my crazy schedule, I love the intimacy of holding my two youngest so close to me even if I am charging through the supermarket.  My two year boy (cost centre number 3) also enjoyed being carried from behind ‘like a backpack’.  The Boba has adjustable footstraps to help support the child too.

There are also an array of designs but this was our personal family favourite.  Neutral enough for dad to also use it.  We are looking forward to taking it away with us on holiday next month.

The Viel family rates this product 9/10.

The Boba carrier can be purchased at babysouk.com