This week’s Into-yous features Australian expat Nathalie Hodgson.

Tell us a little about yourself
I am an adventurous, energetic communications & marketing specialist. My favourite hobbies are yoga, swimming, charity work, travelling and spending time with my family and friends. Married with 2 kids (under 2) I am always busy and make the most of every precious moment.

When did you move to Dubai and what brought you here?
I moved to Dubai in 2008 as apart of the opening team at Atlantis The Palm, Dubai, as Marketing Manager. An amazing experience and would do it all again in a flash.

Have you been an expat elsewhere and if so, where?
South Africa, Johannesburg for a short time.

The best advice you were given to prepare you for life in Dubai
You must enjoy constant sunshine and heat. Invest in a nice place with good air-conditioning and close to some water (beach or pool) and your own transportation is a must.

What surprised you most about Dubai?
The number of different cultures.

What area do you live in?
Marina Walk, Dubai Marina

If money were no object, where would you most like to live in Dubai?
Jumeirah (overlooking the beach) in a 4-5 bedroom villa with a big backyard.

Your favorite Arabic word or phrase you have learned so far
Shukran

Your least favorite word or phrase you have adopted since moving to Dubai
Don’t really have one but do have a least favourite gesture, that is the cupsing of the fingers that are then placed in front of the face. This is usually used when you are cut off in traffic or when someone pushes in front of you in line.

What has been your best experience in Dubai to date?
Opening of Atlantis The Palm, meeting all the celebrities and seeing the most extraordinary fireworks across the whole of Palm Jumeriah.

Where do you hope to spend your next holiday?
Istanbul or Cyprus

Who is the person you most miss when you are in Dubai?
My nephews, sisters, parents and best friends – they are all equally missed so much.

What is your favorite restaurant in Dubai?
Da Shi Dai – Dim Sum resturant

What grocery item do you most miss from your home country?
Chocolate Koala Bears

When friends and family visit you in Dubai where will you absolutely take them?
Dubai Mall

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The team at Expat Echo Dubai would like to feature you in our Into-yous section

Please complete our 5 minute interview and submit your answers along with a profile picture (in JPEG format).