This week’s Into-yous features British (Welsh) expat Patricia Anderson.

Tell us a little about yourself
Mother of 2 rascals, Robert (11) and Isobel (8) who go to JESS Jumeirah and wife of Stuart (a Kiwi). I work part-time for local charity Gulf for Good organising adventure challenges to raise funds for children’s charities around the world

When did you move to Dubai and what brought you here?
I moved to Dubai in 2005 because of my husband’s work.

Have you been an expat elsewhere and if so, where?
We’ve moved around quite a lot, actually – Hong Kong, Bangkok and Qatar … so far!

The best advice you were given to prepare you for life in Dubai
Enjoy it! There’s a lot to do in Dubai, so get out there and make the most of it, especially during the winter months. We’re lucky to have mountains, coastline and pristine desert to explore and enjoy.

What surprised you most about Dubai?
How safe it is. I have never felt at risk in any situation.

What area do you live in?
Umm Suqiem 1

If money were no object, where would you most like to live in Dubai?
On my own private island on the far side of ‘The World’

Your favorite Arabic word or phrase you have learned so far
Mabrouk. A very positive and surprisingly useful little word!

Your least favorite word or phrase you have adopted since moving to Dubai
Dubai Time – implying that something will get done, but not necessarily very quickly. This concept drives me mad, but I have found myself using the expression to refer to events in Dubai, such as having a repair done or getting a delivery!

What has been your best experience in Dubai to date?
Getting to know people through Gulf for Good from so many different backgrounds who are all driven by a desire to make a difference in the world.

Where do you hope to spend your next holiday?
Skiing in Lebanon – I haven’t been to Lebanon yet, but have heard so many good things about it. I’d also like to hike in the Lebanese mountains – Gulf for Good ran a challenge there last year and the participants raved about the beauty of the mountains.
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Who is the person you most miss when you are in Dubai?
My family and some of my good friends from around the world. I wish I could have them closer to me

What is your favorite restaurant in Dubai?
The Smiling BKK on Al Wasl Rd – fun atmosphere, really quirky and tasty Thai food.

What grocery item do you most miss from your home country?
Inexpensive organic foods

When friends and family visit you in Dubai where will you absolutely take them?
For a long walk along the full length of Jumeirah Beach on a beautiful clear Friday morning. We often do this walk as a training exercise for Gulf for Good – it’s 13km in total and takes you past so many different aspects of Dubai life

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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).