This week’s Into-yous features French expat Florence Chabert d’Hieres

Tell us a little about yourself:
I think that I am a lucky ”citizen of the world”.. Why ? I was adopted by French – Italian parents from Sri Lanka,30 years ago !  I lived and study in France and in the US.

Have two baby girls and a wonderful husband !

I have created two companies Coach4expat to help new comers settle in the UAE. Becoming a mum I created Dubaikidcare to answer all our babysitting needs !

When did you move to Dubai and what brought you here:
We moved just after our wedding in 2010, My husband shifted from Nigeria to Dubai, I am cross cultural coach and trainer so I can work any where !

I love beeing a mompreneur !

Have you been an expat elsewhere and if so, where?
Yes in New York, Geneva and Melbourne …

The best advice you were given to prepare you for life in Dubai:
Everything is possible as long as you work hard !

What surprised you most about Dubai?
I am still surprised everyday , It is not because it is different that it is bad !

What area do you live in?
Jumeirah Heights

If money were no object, where would you most like to live in Dubai?
We just bought so I love where we live !

Your favourite Arabic word or phrase you have learned so far:
Mashallah, what people say when they see my baby girl !

Your least favourite word or phrase you have adopted since moving to Dubai:
Yes ma’ am !

What has been your best experience in Dubai to date?
Dune bashing and Desert camp

Where do you hope to spend your next holiday?
South Africa

Who is the person you most miss when you are in Dubai?
My Italian grandmother

What is your favourite restaurant in Dubai?
Bussola when I miss my Italian background !
Icho for the teppaniaki and a beautiful view of Dubai !

What grocery item do you most miss from your home country?
La France , La France !
Cervelas – A French sausage with pistachios – unique from my city LYON ! & of course the ”real” pain au chocolat for breakfast !

When friends and family visit you in Dubai where will you absolutely take them?
In the desert and Madinat Jumeirah