With reference to the news report TV included, whether you want it or not (June 22), my friend has had an Etisalat internet connection for more than two years whose speed is 1 MBPS, which is laughable. When he asked for an upgrade, Etisalat asked him to take their "talk, surf and call" option despite the fact that he didn't want a TV connection. He was told that he had no other option. So basically, even if one does not own a television, one has to take a TV connection to get internet services. It's a sorry state of affairs.
Kimberly Whittenberg Dezarn, Abu Dhabi
I wanted the internet and TV. No phone line. However, I was told that I had to have a phone line to have internet. They also gave me a choice of packages to pick. I did choose one and to this day since it was connected, my bill has always been above Dh1,500 a month. My package was half that amount. When I call and ask the reason, they say I have to go to their office as that information isn’t given over the phone. They charge me for the phone line even though the phone itself has never been plugged in. My internet is very weak and the television sometimes goes off, so there’s no TV until they can send a technician out to me in two days. However, they still charge for those two days of no internet or television. Are we all being played?
Favy Siasi, Dubai
Etisalat always charges for services that we don’t use. Our bills add up to amounts without justification. When we call them to ask for explanation, they give us reasons that are not convincing at all. Unfortunately we have no choice but to stick with their service.
Abeer Al Nowais, Abu Dhabi
In most cases, the landline is just as unwanted as the television. Currently, Etisalat (which is the only option) has its customers in a vice-grip. I hope this article can generate enough attention to spark change.
Alison Duhan, Ireland
Charity reflects the true spirit of Ramadan
The story Labour of love inspires is wonderful. The two businessmen who organised payment for the education of the two children of one of the five expatriates featured in the film A Place Called Home reflect the spirit of Ramadan.
Bikram Singh has spent 16 years in this country, earning Dh1,500 a month, most of which he spent on the education of his two children. I am sure the sacrifices he and his wife have made will be rewarded by the success of his children. I congratulate the gentlemen who came forward to help him.
Glenis Stevenson, Dubai
Animal protein not good option
I disagree with trainer and triathlete Roisin Thomas's opinion on Ramadan fasting (My Ramadan: An expat fasts for understanding, June 22). The suhoor should not contain animal proteins – meat, cheese or eggs – which do not contain any carbohydrates and therefore will not provide the consumer with any energy for the day.
It is imperative that complex carbohydrates or simple sugars (whole, fresh fruit) are consumed in the morning, which could include oatmeal, rice porridge, baked sweet or regular potato, or perhaps banana ice-cream. These will release energy throughout the day and ensure regulated blood sugar levels. They are much easier to digest than animal products, which are taxing on the digestive system and offer few benefits. There is more than enough protein in plant-based foods.
Soraya Beheshti, Dubai
Many reasons for bad parking
Regarding the editorial Think before you park (June 22), I think there's generally a lack of discipline in most people here and worse still, a lack of consideration for others.
Furthermore, a lot can be blamed on ignorance as well. I’m quite sure some people just don’t realise how badly they are behaving. And then there’s sheer arrogance which abounds.
Dave Pryce, Dubai
