alee | ExpatWoman.com
 

alee

alee
197
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 August 2016 - 21:26
Just to also add remember when the job market is tough and companies are searching to make cuts, they will look at the most costly employees first . Have seen this happen, So while you may feel a bit fed up about the package deal , I think you may see changes in the company and packages been removed from present employees or redundancies ?
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 August 2016 - 20:39
Hi Just to add, not sure if company are helping to pay for your relocation. If not you will need to add in the cost of bringing furniture or buying it in Dubai. A lot of villas do not have kitchen equipment ie fridge, cooker washing machine.We have never had a package which included schools , housing or anything else as in my husbands line of work we just don't get them and from what I gather it's getting more common. We have lived in the Middle East for 7 yrs now, including Bahrain and Doha I have to say for our daughter and us to ithas been a fabulous experience, It's not for everyone and you need to give it time and a fair chance , if you do you may find like us we can't imagine living back in the UK ??
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 July 2016 - 15:09
Hi This really isn't much help I know and I really hope you find something for your daughter. All schools will claim to be inclusive however this is not always the case. Dubai is very much money driven even in the not for profit schools which is why you would really struggle to find schools with classes of 10. It may be you will find a school who will take your daughter however you may find you will have to pay extra for a supporting TA.Obviously you want the best for your daughter if possible would you be able to visit schools so you can see if they are a good fit for her needs . Wishing you all the best
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 July 2016 - 13:26
Hi Kentish girl I have lived in Qatar so can answer a couple of your questions. We loved Qatar however it can take some getting used to for some people .yes you will need your marriage certificate attesting for Qatar however guidelines may have changed since we were there 3 yrs ago.Area most like the Palm would be the Pearl.As like Dubai it's not common to find furnished accomadation but there is some.A multi exit visa is given by employers so yes you need to ask for one for your husband. You will be able to come and go as you like as I presume you will be under your husbands sponsor. However your husband will have to get permission from his employer each time even to Dubai unless he has a multi visa.Lots of expats work in Qatar as admin think you would find it easier to get a job there than Dubai.If you have any other questions I will try to help ?
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 July 2016 - 13:15
Well they may be regulated but there behavior is shocking!!!
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 July 2016 - 10:50
Thank you so much for your replies we are looking at an apartment in Golden mile 8 but be we did wonder if the building and traffic would be a concern. Unfortunately we have not made things easy for ourselves as our daughter will attend Dubai College and husband will work in Garhoud. Our budget at top end is 150,000 for 2 bedrooms. Littleone thank you, a home and settled life is something to be cherished this is our 3rd move within the middle east living previously in Doha and Bahrain. This one is proving to be the most challenging !!
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 12 July 2016 - 20:38
We will shortly be moving to Dubai, and on the hunt for a property. We like the Golden mile appartments although aware there is no pool or gym. Can any one let me know how they find living there it ticks lots of boxes for us as also close to our daughters school. Our other options are a very small house at Arabian Ranches, like the out of city feel but a bit remote for me as will only have one car for hubby or an Appartment in the views which is nice but has no balcony . Finding the ideal place in Dubai in our price range and right location is not proving to be easy
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 June 2016 - 18:33
Thank you samran
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 June 2016 - 11:33
Hi we are moving to Dubai from Bahrain and are looking at properties to rent. My husband likes Old town dubai, would this area be suitable with our 14year old daughter. Also how do people pay a years rent in advance there?? do people get loans or is it possible to pay 12 monthly cheques. While we have lived in Qatar and Bahrain , Dubai seems totally different and to be honest a bit daunting Thanks for any advice
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 June 2016 - 21:35
When I mean eat healthy . I am vegetarian, I cook everything from scratch , no processed foods. No dairy, no coffee or soft drinks. Drink next to no alcohol. Eat organic foods where possibly, no bread.I drink lots of water and exercise everyday. I take vitamin supplements and primrose oil. To me that is pretty healthy. I am probably weigh about 8.5 stones so definitely not overweight.I do not wear makeup and I am careful about my face cleansing. So I have tried so many things but not making any difference
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 June 2016 - 16:02
Hi Can anyone suggest a good GP to see regarding possible hormonal imbalance. I am being plagued with acne. No matter what I do .I eat healthy, exercise wear no make up etc and getting so fed up with it . Thank you for any advice
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 June 2016 - 20:55
Seriously what's wrong with you Go49erz!!!
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 June 2016 - 20:53
Seriously what's your problem Go49erz it was obviously a typing error!!! and as far as I could tell this was a request for thoughts on school choice not fuckin grammer . Get over yourself!!!!
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 May 2016 - 15:09
Hi We did this move but Doha to Bahrain 2 yrs ago and now moving to Dubai and wishing we were staying in Bahrain or going back to Doha. Anyway schools it will definitely be a case of where you can secure places. School I would recomend are Doha DESS, and Doha College. There are schools like Park house , Doha British school and sherbourne but as I said it will be where you can get a place . Good luck and hope it all goes well . We have lots of great memories of Doha ??
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 May 2016 - 16:57
Yep lots of dust at all times of year , and the summer is crazy hot . The first year was hard adjusting to climate but obviously plenty of people cope so don't worry to much. My husband and daughter both have allergic reactions to the dust however funny enough it always seems worse in the winter when the weather is cooler. I'm sure you will all be fine best of luck with the move . Think of the great opportunity, Doha is great . You will meet so many people embrace a new culture and enjoy sunshine, swimming year round ????
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 May 2016 - 16:47
Doha Collegd for sure!!!
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 May 2016 - 14:05
Hi , my daughter is at St Christophers at the moment, so yes a British school and I am aware the costs of schooling. It's all the other costs I'm a bit confused at. Housing costs, Derwa, road tolls . Bahrain is I know much cheaper as a place to live for accommodation, school cost are similar. We live in an Appartment in Bahrain which includes wifi, water , ac etc. is there anything else cost wise I should be aware of. Thank you Horizon Mum2
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 March 2016 - 10:18
So why is Dubai so different from the rest of the Gulf. We have lived in both Qatar and Bahrain,both have a high turnover of people coming and going . However we have never had to pay a full years rent in advance.
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 March 2016 - 10:18
So why is Dubai so different from the rest of the Gulf. We have lived in both Qatar and Bahrain,both have a high turnover of people coming and going . However we have never had to pay a full years rent in advance.
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 February 2016 - 12:02
George Town is great visit the Unesco world heritage clan houses , follow street art trail. Eat at Teksen for amazing local food. Go to Penang Hill for amazing views . Also Kek Lok Si temple . Great street food at Guerney drive and if you want a taste of the rainforest and hiking Penang national park. Hope u enjoy we loved Malaysia and penang
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 February 2016 - 11:53
Can definitely recommend Seven Terraces, Muntri Grove or Muntri Mews all beautiful in the centre of Georgetown . Boutique hotels stunning interiors super locations and amazing food
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 June 2015 - 14:51
Yes it's allowed here. Jeans are widely available as are everything the shopping mall is just like one anywhere with the usual stores Zara H&M, top shop GAP etc
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 June 2015 - 09:19
Hi ukexpat123 I had to add a reply to your post. Bahrain is a quiet place in comparison to some of its neighbours. So it can be difficult. Where are you based?? and do you drive? . A lot of people here are members at the rugby club, British club etc which would be a good place to meet others.They have lots of activities and social events, some during the day not just on an evening. Do you have any hobbies or interests there are lots of places here where you can do art workshops etc. It is not much fun been stuck at home all day alone, I know!! I am based in Seef and have lived in Bahrain 1 yr , Doha 4 yrs. coming to the Middle East from UK can take a lot of getting used to . If I can help in anyway you can contact me anytime, even if it'sjust for chat overcoffee. I am older 46 with a daughter here aged 13 at St Chris.My husband also works crazy long hours and then suitably falls asleep when gets home LOL The Middle East can be a truly amazing adventure, it would be a shame if you missed out on it
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 February 2015 - 21:08
Hi Melanie2015 I know this isn't much help but thought I would like to try and answer . I really don't know if it's possible to send your dog in May but I can tell you the temperatures will be extremely hot during those months. Temperatures can be unofficially 50 plus. The morning and evening will also be considerably warm ie in the high 30s so even going out for a walk at these times can be uncomfortable.You may be already aware of this but just so you know even if you can bring your pet at this time it may take a bit of getting used to the weather and conditions . Good luck with your move if I can help at all let me know. We have lived in the ME for nearly 6 yrs, 5 in Qatar and almost 1 here in Bahrain. Bahrain is friendly I'm sure you will enjoy it ?? <em>edited by alee on 18/02/2015</em>
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 December 2014 - 14:44
The last school the head was at charges over £6000 per term and is all girls on the outskirts of York quite a different kettle of fish to what he will I counter in the ME I imagine.
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 December 2014 - 13:42
No for sure, if your daughter is In a good school in Dubai. There is noway I would uproute my family by choice and go back to UK.
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 December 2014 - 12:20
Hi Kitten67 Although not in Dubai we were previously in Qatar for 3 yrs with our daughter. We went back to the UK as we had thought it was for the best for secondary. She went to a girls independent school which we thought was a good choice. We stayed for one yr and then came back to Bahrain. I guess it all depends on your child and circumstances, but I really felt she benefitted more from being in the Middle East. If I could choose again I would certainly stay put if you have a good school here.
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 26 November 2014 - 09:53
Good luck with your move.Really don't want to be negative just to warn you. There is no holiday for New year in Qatar. No celebrations as far as fireworks etc.People usual organise there own partys or go to hotels .Prehaps the school you are working for can link you up with other teachers already there
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 November 2014 - 08:31
Hi Eleonor I suppose the most magical experience for us was visiting Ras la Jinz to see the turtles lay their eggs. We stayed in the hotel there and got up in the early hours and our Bedouin guide took us down to the beach where we watched the turtle cover her eggs and return to sea. My daughter was totally in awe of it . If you love nature Oman is definately a must visit. The Mountains and wadis are beautiful, however do be aware of rainfall in these areas which can be sudden and treacherous. Sur on the coast is interesting for photos and beautiful in a ramshackled way.Take a boat out to see the Dolphins ,honestly there's so much. We truly loved Oman and you will have an amazing time it was such a refreshing place to us compared to Doha. We didn't spend as long there as 10 days but I would love to. Enjoy ??
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 November 2014 - 12:01
To be honest my experience of independent schools here and in the UK has been rubbish all talk and take the money but **** education. State schools and not for profit all the way!!
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 21 November 2014 - 11:08
Coming from York I am familiar with Queen Margaret's and all I can say is money ,money money!! despite what they say about how wonderful they are and the caring ethos .They say what parents want to hear what they deliver is a different matter!!
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 20 November 2014 - 16:53
Hi Eleonor, We have travelled to Oman with our only daughter and many other places too. We have all had a great time and our daughter has never been bored in fact at that age she loved having our company. In Oman there are so many family things to do its just how you go about it. The forts were always a plaground of adventure for my daughter, the sea is filled with dolphins, turtles and beautiful fish, tThe sights and sounds at Muscat souk ( be aware this is not at a all like souk Waqif) Star spotting in the desert. The friendly faces of the Omani people. Really it's a time to treasure together this time goes all so fast. My daughter is almost a teen now who wants to spend all her time with friends. How I wish for those days when she was 9 . P.S only children live in a world where they are always the only one this is all they know they don't need to be around anyone quite often they are happy doing their own thing <em>edited by alee on 20/11/2014</em>
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 October 2014 - 11:03
So sorry to hear this, is it a local company??? To be really honest I would have thought it really hard to get anything once you have left Qatar.Some companies really don't care about paying what they owe ?
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 September 2014 - 17:17
Hi Eleonor, Sorry I can't help with the American school system, however I can give you my experience from sending my daughter to school in Qatar. We are British and the first school I sent my daughter to was definitely not the right fit academically. In the UK she was in an outstanding rated state school. Coming to Qatar over 5 yrs ago it was even then extremely difficult to get a school place. I was not happy with the standard or level ofteaching so pursued other options .We were offerd a place at DESS thankfully, if this hadn't been the case I was all for returning home. I guess what I'm saying is even when you get a school place and even when it's in a so called good school it's not always the right fit. This is also the case in the UK and I'm sure any where else. We while waiting for a new place did some home teaching at the level my daughter was capable of. While at the time I was really fed up with the whole thing I now look back and see the benefits and experiences my daughter gained from schooling and life in Qatar. She gained an amazing knowledge of geography and the world which couldn't be taught.
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 13 July 2014 - 11:40
Hi , my husband works in the construction industry. I would say your husband is most likely going to be working long hours given our experience. The pressure to finish projects with unrealistic time frames means he hardly ever works the hrs he was supposed to. Regularly working weekends and very long days . I hope your experience is not the same,
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 June 2014 - 00:40
Likes The sights , smells and sounds of Souk Waqif The Winter weather Having everyday access to a swimming pool, gym and tennis courts Great photographic opportunities Meeting people from all over the world Dislikes Lack of human rights and discrimination Standard of driving and traffic ahhhhh!!!! Sponsorship system ,exit permit!!! Cost of living Difference between haves and have nots <em>edited by alee on 28/06/2014</em>
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 June 2014 - 12:03
Hi Jabah I think your going to have a struggle on your hands as waiting lists for schools are a nightmare. It will be a case of grab a place where you can . Sorry that's not much help :(
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 May 2014 - 22:27
Sorry, but with that budget it's going to be a struggle for a 4-5 bedroom. Take in to consideration rental prices are going up quickly as demand increases. I would try if possible driving around Gharaffa to ask at the compounds about availability, but my feeling is this are is going to be more and more popular as its very close to Education city and Sidra. Good luck with your search
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 May 2014 - 23:26
At the schools we have attended in the middle east all have asked for a vaccination record. Not sure if it was compulsory or not. To be honest I would strongly advise you to also look into the consequences also of not having your child vaccinated.
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 09 May 2014 - 23:18
Doha College West Bay Or Doha College Al Waab Al Waab has a secondary school. If it's the primary school you will not get a choice of which campus and will need to know for Definate you have a place to confirm your location. Hope it goes well :) :)
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 March 2014 - 20:19
Think this would be a crazy idea. You clearly have not visited Doha before.Its not a move to take lightly !!!
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 March 2014 - 16:53
Well best of luck Peace with 4 hope it goes well whatever you decide :) <em>edited by alee on 06/03/2014</em>
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 March 2014 - 16:06
ok, we didn't save as much as we thought we would in Doha it is expensive I have got to say. But we didn't have school fees paid. School places will be your next biggest head ache the waiting lists for the best schools are long very long. Also don't expect the standards of accomodation to be up to the standards of Dubai. Sorry this all sounds negative its not meant to just so that your aware of what to expect
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 March 2014 - 14:51
sorry wasn't sure if you meant your housing or school fees were to be paid extra. But if your paying school fees for 2 at American school I would say 50,000QR is not enough
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 06 March 2014 - 14:48
Something else to consider, you will need to pay a deposit on your house usually a month in advance plus give a years worth of cheques, The cost of rent is quickly rising, don't be surprised if your rent rises quickly ours rose by 20 percent. Also I don't know if you intend to buy or rent cars or if company is providing one but again another cost. Qatar is very good at keeping its money. Also add costs of flights and holidays you will definitely need time out to escape Doha even if its for the weekend.I enjoyed our time in Qatar but it was quickly becoming to expensive for us. Good luck
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 11 February 2014 - 13:25
No there wouldn't be anything that exactly floats my boat about a hotel however you could use there beach or pool if nothing else also you would again be able to get a taxi from near there easily.I would still go for the one near Katara .Katara has beach access with activities although you have to pay.There is also restaurants and art galleries lots of events etc and it's a nice area to walk around.If you haven't been to Qatar for a few years you will be surprised how much it has developed and how difficult it is to get around which is set to get a lot worse.Some of the areas you like have been demolished and the area around al muntaza is all earmarked for further development. Definitely live near where you are going to work!!! Getting from al muntaza to Westbay can take take approx 1 hr during morning rush sometimes more Be aware there has been a shortage of taxis and taxi drivers are picking and choosing there journeys. <em>edited by alee on 11/02/2014</em>
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 February 2014 - 00:11
Property is not easy in Qatar and it certainly helps if you are there ready to move in. Try Nelson Parks property. Websites are generally out of date. Everything is going up in price due to high demand.Yes it is normal to give a years worth of post dated cheques and depending on agent a months commission fee also.Sometimes it best to just pick your area and drive around and ask at the places you like if anything is available
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 10 February 2014 - 00:02
Apartment in west bay at least you can walk to hotel if nothing else and probably easier to get taxi if needed.It's also easy for corniche.Just would feel a lot more central.
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 February 2014 - 14:43
I would be amazed if you found a decent villa or apartment for under 10k property rises are shooting up as demand is high. Ain Khalid gate has great furnished and very reasonable apartments 2 beds at the moment approx 9k but are going up to 12k and 14k..Your budget will not get you anywhere in west bay. Try al asmak property not sure that's right spelling but you will need to go to offices to get any sense. Al farden property will definitely not be affordable.
alee
197
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 31 January 2014 - 00:44
As with most schools in Doha you will find mixed views.Some will love it some will hate it.It depends on your child, nationality and expectations. You could live in Alrayan, gharaffe or al waab, but getting to city centre by 7.30 after drop off, I imagine would be a tall order given the state of Qatars roads and traffic at that time of the morning
 
 
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