This week’s Into-yous features German expat Stefanie Opitz

Tell us a little about yourself:
I am an expat mum of two boys living here with my family for 6 years now. After a first glimpse of an idea my dream came true: I have written and illustrated my first children’s book which is called  “Friendship is About Dubai”

When did you move to Dubai and what brought you here:
I moved to Dubai in 2008 because my boy friend got a job offer to work here.

Have you been an expat elsewhere and if so, where?
No, this is our first time living abroad, though I travelled a lot before.

The best advice you were given to prepare you for life in Dubai:
After 13 years finally get married to your boy friend before you move there.

What surprised you most about Dubai?
The existence of Ladies Nights in an Arab country. (Love it!)

What area do you live in?
The Springs

If money were no object, where would you most like to live in Dubai?
Mmmh, actually we are very happy in the Springs.

Your favourite Arabic word or phrase you have learned so far:
Shukran. I would love to learn more Arabic…

Your least favourite word or phrase you have adopted since moving to Dubai:
The need of doing FOLLOW UPs for (nearly) everything.

What has been your best experience in Dubai to date?
I had goosebumps, when I picked up my first two mock up books from the printing press. After having worked for many months on the Mac it was just great to have the real book in my hands.

Where do you hope to spend your next holiday?
Maldives– for diving. Tibet – for hiking. Tanzania – for wildlife.

Who is the person you most miss when you are in Dubai?
My parents. Happily, they come over often.

What is your favourite restaurant in Dubai?
Hard to say… there are so many good ones in Dubai.

What grocery item do you most miss from your home country?
Bienenstich, a german cake.

When friends and family visit you in Dubai where will you absolutely take them?
For a camp fire in the desert underneath the starlit sky.

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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).