Today’s Into-yous features Norwegian/American expat Sigrid Kjeldsen

Tell us a little about yourself
I grew up in the USA with an American father and Norwegian mother. I lived there until I was 24 and then moved to Oslo, Norway. I work as a life coach and run my own online coaching practice where I coach stressed out moms – stressedoutmom.com
When did you move to Dubai and what brought you here?
We moved to Fujairah a year ago in March. My husband got a promotion as the regional manager of DNVPS – a Norwegian ship certification company.

Have you been an expat elsewhere and if so, where?
No, this is my first time living the expat life, although my husband grew up as an expat kid – leaving Norway when he was 7 and spending 15 years abroad (Singapore, London and the US).

The best advice you were given to prepare you for life in Dubai
My twin sister, who lives as an expat in South Korea gave me the BEST advice. Don’t compare anything in the new country with that in the old, take everything for what it is. That enabled me to really see this country and its people.

What surprised you most about Dubai?
How big and spread out it was and its modern and almost “western” feel.

If money were no object, where would you most like to live in Dubai?
In a massive, modern villa in Jumeira.

Your favorite Arabic word or phrase you have learned so far
Mashalla… I love the way a compliment is given without envy – beautiful concept.

Your least favorite word or phrase you have adopted since moving to Dubai
La! My 3 year old says it constantly!

What has been your best experience in Dubai to date?
My husband and I escape Fujairah for weekends in Dubai. Trying out new hotels is our new hobby! Media One is just my favourite – funky!!

Where do you hope to spend your next holiday?
We are going back to Norway for 5 weeks this summer but Italy, Switzerland and Oman are top places on our list.

Who is the person you most miss when you are in Dubai?
My twin sister and her children, my lovely niece and nephew!

What is your favourite restaurant in Dubai?
We love the restaurants at the Grand Hyatt.

What grocery item do you most miss from your home country?
Brown cheese, Norwegian chocolate, and Aquavit (Norwegian liquour).

When friends and family visit you in Dubai where will you absolutely take them?
Dubai Mall, the fountains, the souks and the beach hotels in Fujairah.

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

Please download our 5 minute interview and email your answers along with a profile picture (in JPEG format) to us at info@expatechodubai.com