The idea of having self-service petrol pumps is welcome (Self-service fuel a loss of luxury, February 4). However, it worries me. I often question the common sense or lack thereof of some people regarding their actions.
I have seen people smoking in their cars while getting their tanks filled.
Samantha Anderson, Abu Dhabi
I’ll gladly pump my own fuel. I have no issues with bagging my own groceries. I am happy to carry my own purchases to the car, and regardless of the time of year I switch off the ignition before filling petrol. Rarely, if ever, do I call in for deliveries. Personally, I say bring it on. Welcome to the real world.
Alissar El, Abu Dhabi
Self service is a loss of luxury? Really? I’d say it’s just a touch of reality at last and a little less of being treated like a spoilt, helpless (or hopeless) brat.
Dave Pryce, Dubai
What about all the unskilled workers, who would be out of work? Their families need them to remain employed. Not to mention that it would take 10 times longer to fill tanks. So it’s not a good idea.
Once upon a time, some western countries also had the full service, until all the staff were laid off so that the operators could make more money. That’s exactly what it’s all about.
Anthony Edwards, Dubai
Affordable home – what’s that?
Regarding the article Affordable Dubai homes will keep residents in UAE for longer, says expert (February 3), sometimes I feel that these experts are living on another planet. Where is the affordable housing they are talking about? The only ones I was informed about are still in the making.
Considering that many developers are delaying handovers, I can see myself moving to one of those homes much later than expected. Some time ago, I was contacted by an agent who wanted to advertise an “affordable” property and he began the conversation by asking me what kind of investment I was looking for. If such people are still trying to hunt for investors rather than real homebuyers, then forget about affordability. It is pointless.
Wissam Halwani, Dubai
Alternative view on medicine
It may be true that some alternative treatments are not very good, but it is also true that no one has any idea how to cure cancer either ('Patients must not use herbal products, February 4).
We live in a toxic environment where our food is laced with chemicals, preservatives and a range of often dangerous ingredients.
Farming methods today are not what they used to be 50 years ago. Foods are grown in chemically rich soil, as opposed to nutrient-rich soil. They are harvested prematurely, meaning that they do not contain the amount of nutrients they are supposed to have. They are stored with chemicals so that they appear fresh even after a year. Many of these crops should be picked and eaten within a few hours of harvesting.
There are supplements available that can help build the immune system and provide the ability for the body to “heal” and develop resistance.
However, those are not financially lucrative for the medical and pharmaceutical industry. There are scientifically-proven safe alternatives.
Name withheld by request
Don’t neglect your children
Parents need to spend quality time with their children. Many are unable to do so because they are too busy. So they buy their children – sometimes as young as 3 or 4 years old – tablet computers to keep them occupied. This is a bad practice as it affects the development of a child’s personality.
Too many parents seem to ignore the fact that a young child needs emotional support. Allowing them to spend hours watching cartoons and playing video games will reflect on their personality when they grow up.
It also means a lack of interaction with other children and no outdoor activities. We all know that it has dire consequences. Parents, please be careful.
Farooq, Abu Dhabi
