ccdoha

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 16 July 2011 - 00:29

thanks all for the info - looking forward to doing some of these adventures very soon...as it turns out, DH has had a change of plans at work and he will now be off for Ramadan :) so...since we will have a month, we have decided to go back to the UK :)

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 15 July 2011 - 17:08

I know I bought one last year in Argos (UK)...would they ship through Aramex? It was really small and light.

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 15 July 2011 - 17:06

I bought a VERY nice Tom Tom in the UK a couple months before coming here that tells me more info that I would ordinarily need to know driving back home in the USA, I needed the extra info driving in the UK. Turned out to be handy having the extras here but I had to pay the extra 50GBP to download the ME maps. I think most people I know that have a garmin downloaded the ME maps for free off pirate internet sites but I figured I would just pay in hopes of not getting lost!

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 14 July 2011 - 10:56

Does anyone know if kids are allowed at the AWA coffee morning? There are 2 new American ladies in my building I would like to suggest this to but one has boys 4 & 8 and one has a girl 11.

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 14 July 2011 - 09:46

Yes you def need DH's permission to get a license now and it needs to be a letter in arabic. They have men in little shacks/trailers behind the DL office that will type the letter up for about 10 QR and DH has to sign.

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 14 July 2011 - 09:43

I need clarification please...so do you show the kids' passports and pay for them when the mom is getting the medical whilst at the medical commission or do you go back after mom receives RP stamp in passport. I have read conflicting info on different threads....

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 13 July 2011 - 20:39

Baf- the colour is tied to the quote and there is a quote tag at the beginning and end of the quote. So make sure you start typing your bit before or after the quote tags

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 13 July 2011 - 13:08

All the ladies here have tons of knowledge, I just happen to be unemployed with no children so too much free time on my hands!!!! :). Glad to help though!

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 12 July 2011 - 21:49

PHO - not sure if you are driving yet but I do so if you need any assistance with anything, let me know - I'm being bored housewife for now and have been for 8 weeks now :( email me on cc doha @ hotmail.co.uk

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 12 July 2011 - 18:37

Went to a little Pakistani place called Lahore sort of by telecommunications signal. Very authentic, so I am told by the Pakistani gentleman that was with us :)

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 12 July 2011 - 10:29

If you go to the portal and search family visa - it looks pretty straight forward. The application is in arabic but it's easy enough to find someone who can translate here. I only remember because I read on another forum about someone applying for one for their mother. I'm just saying because a couple of things we have learned along the way is that you can do things yourself...i.e. the hamad medical card, I waited over a month for mine and then I found out you could just go down to the medical center and get it yourself (and pay). Also, the RP, I think I've read that once you have everything done you can just wait a couple days then take it all to the post office and they process it for you...(not confirmed). SO, I think that while we're waiting around for a PRO to do things, we could be doing some things ourselves if on a time frame.

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 12 July 2011 - 09:53

have a look around the http://portal.www.gov.qa/wps/portal/frontpage site your husband may be able to apply for the family visa without his company - alternatively, if you're up for it, go to the immigration office by the airport and ask if he can or maybe ask at the Post office

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 12 July 2011 - 09:50

http://qa.reedglobal.com/home.php this is the only reputable recruiting firm I have seen...

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 12 July 2011 - 09:49

One thing though, once you've got your RP, you should be driving with a Qatari licence only. One rule I was unaware of but fortunately there were no incidents in between using an international licence, and having the Qatari licence. I thought this too but I recently looked it up on Hukoomi and there was no mention of this so not sure... Sorry - my long link was messing up the thread...go to http://portal.www.gov.qa/wps/portal/frontpage and search drivers license in top right <em>edited by ccdoha on 12/07/2011</em>

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 11 July 2011 - 21:49

just stumbled upon this by chance, OP DH's company could have a similar policy... Community College of Qatar policy prohibits new employees bringing their families to Qatar until after they receive their Qatar ID/Work Permit. (Normally this process takes 60-90 days and is at the sole discretion of the Qatar Supreme Education Council.) we know it no longer takes 60-90 days but that might be the "concept" they are working off of

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 11 July 2011 - 21:36

Here are the details for the Fanar - the swirly building by the souq waqif - they run morning and night classes 2 days a week, 2 hours each for about 12 weeks. I don't know if they are any good but supposed to be full immersion - they only speak arabic the whole time. you pay 300qr reg fee. For admission &enrolment, queries please contact: Tel: 44250175, (Gents). 44250172 / 289 (ladies) Working days: Sunday to Thursday, from 7:30 am - 1:30 pm 5:00pm - 8:00pm [email protected] Muhamed Elhassan Fanar, Education Center Phone: +974 44250 175 Fax: +974 44250 161 [email protected] http://www.fanar.gov.qa <em>edited by ccdoha on 11/07/2011</em>

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 10 July 2011 - 15:24

there is bootcamp qatar, they are on facebook http://www.bootcampqatar.com/

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 10 July 2011 - 14:11

thanks :)

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 10 July 2011 - 11:13

I have some contacts at ictqatar, and some random contacts names at stendan college, comm coll of qatar (is run by houston community college), and qatar univ, if you want to email me directly at cc doha at hotmail. co. uk (no spaces) and I can get back to you with some direct email addresses. :) My experience in Qatar is that you don't get the job through the HR department, you have to find the people looking to fill positions and then they get you through the HR department! A bit backwards! QPWN is great and you will both make tons of contacts in one night. also check http://qa.reedglobal.com/home.php Keep in mind that everybody is going on leave this month, especially govt and universities. It seems that a lot of the HR staff tend to be arabic or indian and they seem to prefer to take leave for July and spend ramadan here - that is what I have been told. <em>edited by ccdoha on 10/07/2011</em>

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 10 July 2011 - 11:04

these are the guys I use when I need a taxi - they are 35-40 but completely reliable prakesh or abi 33813517/55611540 they work for a firm so someone will always answer and they will give you a realistic time - always less than 20 min as I think they park up at Ramada and wait for calls. If they can't get you, they will send another driver. They all drive safe honda accord sedans. These guys were a godsend when I first arrived. I don't think the price is really negotiable because they work for a private limo firm I guess but again, 100% reliable in my experience.

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 10 July 2011 - 10:15

This is incorrect information. I came with DH and on a visitors visa and was offered a family visa straight away. I didn't take it because I didn't want it but it was definitely available. I just checked with DH's colleagues wife that I took to get her RP a couple of weeks ago and her DH came to Doha April 16 and her and the kids' family visa was processed June 5 and they flew June 16 and I took them to get RPs that week. SO definitely no 3 month rule as far as the govt is concerned. DH's company also has a 3 month probation period. If DH's company insist on doing their way - don't panic - you have options - You can get just come here, get the visa on arrival - visitors visa - and that will be a renewable 30 day visa. It cost $28 usd when you arrive in Doha and then before 30 days you have to go down near the airport and renew it for another 30 days for another $28. You can only renew it one time so the company would have to give you the family visa by then. But at least that gives you 60 days. Even then, if no family visa for whatever reason (it happens) people just take a flight to Oman and literally come straight back and you have another 30 days. It is very common! As for your job. It is not exactly like back home, as long as you are in process of getting your visa sorted, there is a bit of flexibility it seems here. My first job teaching at a school I was only on a visitor visa still and my second job which was considered "consulting" didn't even ask to se my family visa and employed many people on tourist visas! If you explain to your work the situation, I am sure that they will be able to find a work around. As for the maid, I have no advice for you there. edited by ccdoha on 10/07/2011 didn't pay attention that you were already here - but I'll leave the info anyway ;) <em>edited by ccdoha on 10/07/2011</em>

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 09 July 2011 - 18:38

Yes. It is the one next door to golf gardens sorry.

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 09 July 2011 - 18:36

I would suggest jobs at the universities, starting with the American ones.

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 09 July 2011 - 12:47

My friend that lives in Golf Gardens has a 13 yo and he seems to get out about in the neighborhood. It is close enough to QIPCO so he can ride his bike to there. There is a little convenience store on site so he can pop up there. My friend said that the ASD bus fills up so there must be a lot of American kids there...the compound is set way back from the main road and on a slip road so it is "safe" for the kids to run about between the 2 compounds, I would say. Someone else posted last week that they were going for 18k-20k but I think they are very comfortable and would be suitable for a teen :) I live in an apt in West Bay and I love it but I would say that it doesn't seem like a hot spot for teens. I wouldn't want my teen trying to cross the 8 lane road trying to get to city centre mall!

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 09 July 2011 - 10:24

They seem to be at most of the sports shops just a random few styles. Also they are in the shoe mart (I think that is what it's called) at landmark.

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 09 July 2011 - 10:22

I have some come every 2weeks and to avoid some of this I have her start in the kitchen and finish in the bathrooms then I throw away all sponges/clothes after she leaves. Also, it's a good idea to take out the cleaners and say where you want them used. iMHO, if they are only coming occassionally/weekly, etc. I think you can only expect to have certain aspects of the cleaning done and not expect them to do an overall clean. i.e. My girl only cleans the kitchen, does the floors mop/vacuum, dusts and bathrooms. If there is anything else, I have to be specific. I think i have realistic expectations and then I'm not disappointed.

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 09 July 2011 - 10:13

I think that I saw something months ago about them being at asd, the american school?!? But that might of ben the boy scouts. Sorry not much help :(

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 09 July 2011 - 10:08

I've been wondering why no one has been chatting about ACS? I have heard great things too like the campus will be state of the art, completely wireless with smart boards in every classroom. Also I've heard that all teachers will definitely be qualified teachers! I'm sure there will be teething problems but because they have 3 successful schools already set up in the UK, I think they will be OK. Also, they will have the IB programme. Rachel- I've also heard they're going to be an all MAC school!

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 09 July 2011 - 09:54

Have you checked with Hamad women's hospital. A mammogram is pretty straightforward and in the USA would usually be covered annually for preventative once you turn 35. I don't remember seeing it on the pricing sheet they had but a visit to the womans dept is only 50 for first visit and 30 for follow up and the sonogram I had was only 50. The equipment was state of the art. The last time I was at Hamad I advised the "system" here...if you want an appt, you have to go to the emergency room (10-15 min wait) tell the dr your symptoms and they give you a referral for an appt. Then you just go to the desk and make an appt! I have done this twice now and although it says there's a charge for emergency room, have not been charged. I have no clue if this is what everybody else does and would love to know... Also when I was 30'ish I used to get terrible shooting pains in my breasts and my dr told me to eliminate caffeine. It eventually subsided. I've had 2 mammograms, all fine ;). <em>edited by ccdoha on 09/07/2011</em>

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 09 July 2011 - 09:38

I'm going to be factual - a teacher I know that worked at Newton wbl said that the resources were very lacking and that a lot of teachers lacked experienced. She said to the point where you would be actually be missing things from your classroom. My experience with Newton d-ring was the same as well as I felt they cut corners all the time. I know this will sound harsh but there is this saying I have been using for a lot of things here in doha and it applies to here as well, "just because you can get away with it, doesn't make it right". I don't slight the teachers, it's the conditions. I agree that all schools have there good and bad but IMHO keep looking :) Homeschooling is a great idea but those ages would be difficult to acclimate socially here in Doha without a normal outlet like school. I have a friend with a child at isl and she loves it :)

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 07 July 2011 - 12:06

I don't have kids but I would think that this is the time in their lives when they would appreciate the CASH the most! and not to sound harsh, (I know you mums out there don't like to think this of your children) he might be actually expecting the cash. NOT IN A BAD WAY, just in the way where you remember when mom would say, "you can buy that with your bday money, you know aunty xx always sends you xx...." just saying... I do like Joyce's activity gifts though! I'm sure any kid would love those!

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 07 July 2011 - 10:27

Just a reminder that if on DH sponsorship and you are on a Family Visa you DO NOT need an appt for medical. You just go in, get a number, and then for some strange reason you have to go immediately left to a little room and give them your phone number and they write in on a piece of paper. Take that paper and wait for your number to be called. Some people have full official applications but I didn't need one and DH's colleague's wife did not need one either! edited by ccdoha on 07/07/2011 <em>edited by ccdoha on 07/07/2011</em>

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 07 July 2011 - 08:31

I've posted this before but as I understand it, the whole process should only take less than two weeks from the time you do your medical. From what I understand/have gathered once you have your medical, it only takes a couple of days for the medical commission to get you in the system. Once you're in the system, your company gives your blood type, a couple days later that appears in the system and you should be able to get your finger prints, once that is in the system, it should only be a couple of days. Unfortunately, as most of us know, it can take much longer but I agree with GinaM that it is probably down to the company.

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 07 July 2011 - 08:26

Kellie is definitely the expert in this topic but I just wanted to add that it wouldn't hurt to get all of your documents attested to while you are home. University degrees, certificates, licenses. I don't know what this means exactly for where you are at, for the US, we only ha to get our documents notarised which can be done for free at your local bank. I have read horror stories about people having to go to an embassy, etc. I know that in England, to get something notarised I was told we had to get a solicitor to do it and the one I called was wanting 100GBP for the service. One friend that has been trying to get hired at Hamad for months in a lab tech role was told that she had to get her licences attested to and have the medical ministry in her home country sign a form saying she was licensed to work in her country. She is still battling it out with them. So, my advice would be to gather as much paperwork about yourself as you can and keep in touch with Kellieb about it. I would even get a CRB check and bring it with you since they are cheap and easy to get in the UK. They will require another one once you arrive but I think the more paperwork you have the more likely they will think you are "processable" and "hireable"

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 07 July 2011 - 08:17

go figure, I just googled carrefour fromage frais and got all the details http://www.fatsecret.com/Diary.aspx?pa=fjrd&rid=1511265

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 07 July 2011 - 07:24

So I'm always giong on about this great tasting fat free fromage frais at carrefour and now I'm looking at the tub and I don't see anything that says fat free on the little yellow pot!?!? I need a translation as google translator doesn't get it : 20% mat. gr. sur extrait sec. I don't have the bit that went around the pots so if anyone knows anything else please let me know. Please tell me the wrapping said fat free Day 5 of my diet, going from very lean protein to lean protein and carbs found in certain fruit and veg...and a few other treats. Was sooooooooooooo looking forward to this little pot of fromage frais. tia

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 06 July 2011 - 14:55

yes, she's drinking :) she has only thrown up the carrot. I'll try making her some rice. She has not been eating much but she never turns down table food!

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 06 July 2011 - 14:52

50 Quid!!!! Is that even legal? Listen, the secret is that you have to water the grass BEFORE the sun comes out. A few minutes in the a.m. and a few minutes in the p.m. but not when it is hot and the sun is out :) the grass is porous I guess and it closes up in the sun/heat so the water just sits on the ground and dries up. This is what my gardener told me in Florida.

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 06 July 2011 - 14:52

I have tried growing basil and oregano in FL before several times with no luck :(

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 06 July 2011 - 14:17

I don't know any gardeners but maybe Mr. Hari that does the villa cleaning might have someone as they do garden work as well, give him a call Mr. Hari at 55532351

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 06 July 2011 - 14:15

and why do you need a gardener every day???

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 06 July 2011 - 13:52

tell me more...if Im coming from the four seasons/diplomat area...

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 06 July 2011 - 13:51

OMG - my fridge smells GORGEOUS from the mint - it's intoxicating!!! Well, actually, probably the endorphines that are released because my brain thinks I'm getting a mojito :) I'm on Day 4 of my diet and I have been treating myself to tonic water + splenda + lime + mint = to fool myself into thinking I'm having mojitos...at noon!

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 06 July 2011 - 13:21

Thanks ladies The basil is in the window sill and the mint I am trying all options. I suppose I should ask my little brother how they keep the mint so pretty and fresh as he works in a local pub at Uni :)

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 06 July 2011 - 10:18

Does anyone know the best way to keep herbs fresh once you buy them? I like to buy Basil and Mint from megamart but it seems to go brown quickly - any tips?

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 06 July 2011 - 09:46

Thanks ladies and for the location baffled. I too have read in my fancy mag that Oman is GREAT this time of year with the weather staying in the 20's in some parts as there appear to be valleys and mountains/hills and the picture has lots of GREEN in it!

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 06 July 2011 - 09:42

actually, since you are not here yet, I have put a call into them for you to see...they said they have to check and call me back :) WIll let you know :) Ok, they called me back and they knew what they were but they said that they don't stock them and that htey have to order them, They couldn't tell me how long it takes, they said depending on the company they order from...they said they have to measure your eyes and then place the order. A visit their for my DH cost 300qr but I felt they were very thorough and he saw 3 different people for different eyes examination during the one visit. <em>edited by ccdoha on 06/07/2011</em>

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 05 July 2011 - 19:49

Thanks everyone - we are trying to stay close to here and somewhere we wouldn't go to when we move back to the UK. Also somewhere that a week will be enough time to see a bit. IF truth be told...my real motivation is I am after my prescription that I am unable to get here without a fight and is available OTC in EGYPT - WIN WIN. So Egypt is my first choice. I am told it is fine there now but the Parliamentary elections are planned for September 2011 with the Presidential - November 2011. Having said that - all should be quiet for EID, insh'allah :) @kerboo - I haven't a clue who to contact, I will try airarabia holidays as jonners suggested below. DH brought home this travel mag called Kanoo Traveller and it had an advert for egypt and it says through kanoo holidays but I cannot find anywhere in the mag that tells you where to call or book, I will google eventually but just thought I would ask around. Let me know what you come up with...feel free to email me at cc doha @ hotmail.co.uk if you come up with any deals! A friend was just in Thailand and that looked fantastic and affordable but again - trying to stick with egypt!

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 05 July 2011 - 19:36

I would contact magrabi, I think they are the best in town for eyes, their number is 4423 8888

697

Posts

EW GURU

Latest post on 05 July 2011 - 19:34

yes I saw the microwave ones also at Daiso, they were in the middle section where the womens toiletries are - kind og facing the back of the store

Top 5 UK curriculum online schools for expat families and kids abroad

Top 5 Online Schools For Expat Families in the Middle East

How expats in Germany can get German pension refund

Bye Bye Germany - Hello German Pension Refund?

UAE Emirati Lawyer Awatif Khouri in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Meet the Emirati Woman Breaking Grounds in UAE Law: Awatif Khouri

Mashreq NEO NXT Account | Why Kids and Teens Need Financial Education

Why Teens Need Real-World Financial Education?

International university transition tips

How to Make the Transition to University Life Easier

How to apply for Germany VBL Pension Refund as an expatriate | Germany Pension Refund

Bye Bye German Public Service Job - Hello VBL Pension Refund

Tourist SIM cards in Dubai guide

Tourist SIM Cards in Dubai: Where to Get One and Package Prices

World's most expensive cities to live in 2024

These Are the World's Most Expensive Cities To Live in 2024

Dubai ranked as one of the best cities to work in 2024

Dubai Ranked Among Top 5 Cities in the World to Work In

What are the signs that your online date is a fraud

8 Warning Signs Your Online Date is a Scammer

10 Expat Experiences You Should Check Off Before Repatriation

10 Expat Experiences You Should Check Off Before Leaving For Good

Best and Worst Countries to Get Started Abroad for New Expats

Best and Worst Countries for New Expats to Get Started Abroad

Under the Mango Tree by Robyn Fok | Expat Books

Expat Author Robyn Fok's 'Under the Mango Tree' Deals With Pet Grief & Loss

Expat Wife, Happy Life: Interview With Expat Author Florence Reisch

(Images: Supplied)

Expat Interview: Meet Florence Reisch, Author of 'Expat Wife, Happy Life!'

Remembering Queen Elizabeth II: A Tribute by UAE Expats

Remembering an Extraordinary Woman: A Tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

10 reasons why expat women love the UAE

10 Reasons Why the UAE is a Popular Choice for Expat Women

6 Common Fears of Moving Abroad By Yourself and How to Overcome Them

Moving to the UAE Alone: 6 Common Fears and How to Overcome Them

Ultimate Babyshop Baby and Toddler Travel Packing List

These Baby Travel Essentials Are Must-Haves For Your Next Family Getaway

Requirements to apply for a UAE Golden Visa

How Do I Obtain a UAE Golden Visa? Requirements, Eligibility, and Process Explained

5 Tip for Expats to Survive Long-Distance Relationships

5 Tip for Expats to Survive Long-Distance Relationships

Opening a bank account in the UAE

A Newcomer to the UAE? What to Consider When Choosing a Bank for Opening an Account

Culture shock in the United Arab Emirates for expats

14 Ways You Will Experience Culture Shock in the UAE

5 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Upload a Resume to Your LinkedIn Profile

10 Secrets to Happiness as an Expat

10 Secrets to Finding Happiness as an Expat

4 Ways to Network as an Expat

4 Ways to Network as an Expat

8 Expat Problems That Are Just Too Real

8 Expat Problems That Are Just Too Real

How to Make New Friends in a Foreign Country

How to Make New Friends in a Foreign Country

Top 10 Countries with the Best Quality of Life

Top 10 Countries with the Best Quality of Life

The best European cities for new expats

Pictured: Prague

The Best Cities in Europe for Expat Arrivals

House in Husavik

10 Amazing Things To Do In Iceland

How to Make Your Own Life as an Expat and Why It’s Important

How to Make Your Own Life as an Expat and Why It’s Important

The Labriz eforea spa location

Why Seychelles is One of the Best Holiday Destinations

The Real Expat: Chasing Your Dreams to Find Your True Purpose

The Real Expat: Chasing Your Dreams to Find Your True Purpose