ccdoha | ExpatWoman.com
 

ccdoha

697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 05 July 2011 - 14:14
I always think the best way to answer this question is to put it out on paper (an excel spreadsheet if you will) and if you will save more here each month and you don't mind the sacrifices then it makes sense. If you are asking what salary you're worth OR BETTER YET what salary you are worth here...that is a different question :)
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 05 July 2011 - 14:09
no it just feel like tiny little pricks, each one is really quick, they must only inject a small amount in each pore/gland??
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 05 July 2011 - 14:03
I stand behind my Dyson with its 5 year warranty!! I like the Henry but I have only used it on hard floors and I can't really imagine it doing well on carpet or with the dust here as I don't think it was intended for the extreme dust. I think they are probably used by hotels because they are so durable and have very few parts that could break. I have had a look at the LG range with the dust compression feature, if no dyson I would consider those. The dyson has the washable hepa filter, not sure if the others do. There's an LG shop in CC.
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 05 July 2011 - 13:42
Mine was done by my dermatologist and yes he did the cornstarch and then he used a pen I think to mark where he would give shots (can't remember exactly)...I have no clue on the dosages but it was covered by my health insurance in the states so I am sure there was "nothing extra" included. He gave me maybe a doxen shots in each armpit I think, could have been more. amy I didn't notice any effects. I have always suffered from excessive sweating from my armpits, groin area, and feet. It doesn't have an odor. Mr dermatologist told me that botox was not approved to stop sweating anywhere else except for armpits so he wasn't allowed to shoot me up everywhere else :(
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 July 2011 - 13:57
21K?!?!???!?!?! Good grief! @Twinnie - *sigh* you're leaving *sigh* just saw your message today! Good luck to you and enjoy (I assume you're headed back to the UK)
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 July 2011 - 13:50
Is there any other match for this dust other than a Dyson?????? The amount of dust that canister pulls up from one room in my apartment...if it broke, I would pay to have another one shipped!!! edited by ccdoha on 04/07/2011 I had 2 Dysons back in UK and couldn't wait to stick them in the tip. Worst, worst ,most expensive hoovers ever maid. Now I buy Electrolux and it's stood the test of time! WOW, sorry to hear that. This is my first one and I brought it last September from the UK, it is the one with the ball and I am truly amazed at what it sucks out of my, what appears to be clean already, carpet. We have a dog that sheds and the dust blows into every crevice of our apt some how. I literally have to empty the canister after 1 1/2 rooms.
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 July 2011 - 13:43
Is there any other match for this dust other than a Dyson?????? The amount of dust that canister pulls up from one room in my apartment...if it broke, I would pay to have another one shipped!!! <em>edited by ccdoha on 04/07/2011</em>
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 July 2011 - 13:41
Just to say that a couple of friends just got a great deal on a really big villa near west bay, several rooms, large garden, completely gated. They met a guy who knew a guy...I am by no means advertising but just thought I would let you know in case you ladies pull together and are looking for a villa to rent. It is massive and I am sure he knows of others...again, I am totally not advertising any services, just wanting you to benefit from my networking :)
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 July 2011 - 13:37
I haven't had it done here but would like too. I actually had it done twice in the USA and after the 2nd treatment it seemed to last forever.
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 July 2011 - 13:36
a friend just moved here form USA and said that her dr allowed her to fill 6mths worth of her prescriptions before coming here...worth asking your dr before you leave. Also, another friend from the UK has prescriptions shipped from the UK each month, not sure if this is legal - would like to know if anyone knows...thinking about doing the same.
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 July 2011 - 13:33
You can get a serviced apt in the ezdan for under 5K I am told. I have heard that sometimes people are leaving and will sublet, etc...it's fine but for that price no kitchen just a fridge. Great location just off the corniche and walking distance to a nice petrol station and taxis. I know that there are decent, new studios for 1500 and 1 bdr for 3000 on the e ring, nothing nearby really but could see if I could get more details if you want... I hava also heard of more shabby 2 bdr apts by airport for 4K but probably not so nice... send me an email, I might have an idea... cc doha at hotmail .co .uk (no spaces)
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 July 2011 - 13:28
the ones we bought from carrefour were fine for christmas eve camping in the desert...
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 July 2011 - 13:27
@rachel - I sent you an email :(
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 July 2011 - 13:03
I'll send you a message...
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 July 2011 - 00:39
lots of fat free fromage frais at CC carrefour this afternoon <em>edited by ccdoha on 04/07/2011</em>
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 July 2011 - 00:38
I was in Hyatt plaza and the entrance nearest to homes r us has naturalizer ( I know, not what Amy is looking for but just thought I would add) and quite a few of the newer styles of birkenstocks
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 July 2011 - 00:34
Just wanted to post that I passed this info onto my friends that just moved into a ridiculously large villa with a very large garden complete with maids cottage in back. The quote was a lot more than I expected but we didn't have the time to shop around... Mr. Hari's team came out with about 25 men and spent about 12 hours and did a FANTASTIC job. I saw the before and after and it was truly a miracle!
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 July 2011 - 00:23
Hello Rachel - I sent you an email on your gmail
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 July 2011 - 00:20
there is a mini aw rawnak on khalifa st on right side traveling from city centre past the honda dealer, i think in the shopping center with mcdonalds <em>edited by ccdoha on 04/07/2011</em>
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 01 July 2011 - 17:54
I found this article, there are some telephone numbers at the end you might be able to call for help... http://www.outpostqatar.com/attachments/article/48/OQ%20Guide%20to%20Hiring%20Domestic%20Help_2011.pdf
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 01 July 2011 - 17:49
SHOUT IT FROM THE ROOFTOPS!!!!!!!!!!!!!! http://www.defra.gov.uk/publications/files/pb13582-bringing-pets-into-uk-110629.pdf Here is the real icing on the cake... * Please note – If your pet was successfully blood tested and issued with an EU pet passport before it left the UK or other EU country to go to a non-approved country, the three-month waiting period before re-entering the UK will not apply (but all other rules still apply).
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 01 July 2011 - 17:40
I tried to order from Kenneth Cole in the US and use my UK AMEX with my US S&S and they said no go. They accept paypal online though so they said that was OK. I have only ordered successfully from the Amazon.co.uk which I have always found amazon.com or .co.uk will usually accept foreign credit cards. As for time, I found everything was super fast. As for Apple, it is more so because they have some tight export laws <em>edited by ccdoha on 01/07/2011</em>
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 29 June 2011 - 15:56
I dont know what this is but I have seen printing shops in the computer souk in the old sofitel bldg which is behind souq waqif. If i remember correctly they seem to do printing for invitations and that sort of thing but it may be a start. if you need specific directions let me know.
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 29 June 2011 - 15:48
fyi -appts for Hamad IVF are well into October right now in case anyone is needing this...
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 June 2011 - 12:56
good!! my friend said to me once that the flats were more for people in transition.
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 June 2011 - 12:54
they have some in today. just came from city centre c4 there...they had at least 4 of the 8 packs on the shelf mind you the parking is a nightmare already, I went at around 1030 and it was fine but when i left it was horrible, i think this proves the theory that it is NOT the office people taking up the spots
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 June 2011 - 10:32
I am not sure about the board shorts because I was in a hurry but I went to skate shack which I think is 1 r/a past decoration r/a on the left side next to serta and they had rash guards/board shorts and really good bikes and kayaks! I'm trying to talk DH into a 2 man kayak!
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 June 2011 - 10:27
I have a friend that lives there in the villas. they seem to have stand alone villas and a block of flats. The villas are pretty standard, big and beige but because the roads are nice and paved it seems a bit more civilised then a lot of places I have seen. The villas also have wrap around gardens with grass on the side and back yard. I like the sliding glass doors to the back garden and the front of the villas all have one covered parking space if I am not mistaken and a nice are for BBQ :) It seems quiet and I think a lot of people are with oil & gas (I think Exxon and Shell). They have a store that actually stocks ice bags :) I haven't seen the pool but was told it is quite standard. Everyone I have met there is British or American. My friend tells me that the American School (ASD) fills up a whole bus there so there must be loads of Americans. I haven't been to many compounds but I think it is my favorite and I would definitely live there!!!
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 27 June 2011 - 10:21
ANYONE HAVE ANY INFO??? I have taken Dr prescribed ambien for awhile but the drs here in qatar think they know better...so I too am on the mission to find ambien somewhere in the GCC. Yesterday a woman from Egypt said that you can but this from any pharmacy in Egypt, she said her husband was a pharmacist working here in Qatar now... Can anyone confirm this?
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 26 June 2011 - 08:46
I don't think it's close but the ezdan in west bay is about 5000-6000 for a serviced apt per month. it's close to a lot of things and they have a cafe, etc all on property.
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 26 June 2011 - 08:43
I know that back home my family is allergic to every type of soap and detergent except for any Tide, which is readily available here...if that helps :) <em>edited by ccdoha on 26/06/2011</em>
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 26 June 2011 - 08:39
angelaupward @ yahoo .com.au this is the correct email :)
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 25 June 2011 - 09:43
Anyone know specifically where this is. Maybe a cross street?? Tia
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 23 June 2011 - 11:41
Ok so are you coming from the USA or the UK. I am not being funny but driving here is seriously difficult, especially if you are coming from the USA. I would hate for your visit to be filled with frustration when it is meant to be setting your mind at ease about your decision. Even to drive at 7pm from the airport in the dark is going to be an experience. I might be over reacting but roundabouts are no joke here. If you have never driven in the Middle east, I strongly suggest you take a taxi from the airport to hotel, they are super cheap 25 QAR to start and then about 1.40 a mile or km I can't remember but cheap. There is no such thing as an address here for anything to put it bluntly. I am not trying to sound pessimistic but if you really want to get things done in that short amount of time, seriously reconsider using drivers. My guy charges 40 QR just about everywhere and he could probably work you a deal 33813517 or 55611540 it is a private car service and they are 100% reliable and only use Honda Accords, well dressed and well mannered. For instance, Ah ALi is on the c-ring road just about a mile south of TV Roundabout !?!??! Doha Clinic is about 2 miles farther down the c-ring off on a little side street al mirqab al jadedd street according to google maps but good luck finding that. When I first came, I used the driver for about an hour and he only charge be 100QR and took me on a major mission to clear my bags from customs, the atm, the customs agent, etc. I think you could probably negotiate with them...and that in my opinion would be your best bet. Don't get me wrong, I not faint hearted when it comes to driving, I have driven from LA to Miami, in 3 days with a friends, Minneapolis to Orlando in 1 1/2 days, Straight through from Amsterdam to London, but driving here is so frustrating, I am only thinking of you trying to get all your stuff done. I hope someone else backs me up here :) Good Luck whatever you do.
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 22 June 2011 - 14:20
indeed! The top floor was empty anyway, maybe all the office workers parked on the bottom floor, of which I did not look :)
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 22 June 2011 - 13:53
LOL xptmmm - Yes, if you are coming from the USA probably turn the job down as we have not been conditioned to live and work by these terms...if coming from the rest of the world, probably you'll be OK. It's all what you make of it. But have an exit plan...as in, make sure you have enough money to go home if you hate it! To answer your questions: I've met a few young teachers and they seem to like it here just fine. I am assuming 88 implies you were born in 88 and are still young... I actually interviewed at that school and the facilities are fine. If it is the same Headmaster, a retired guy from the UK, he was actually quite nice and Gulf area experienced. The school is pretty far from all of the good stuff here in Doha, so you'll struggle to get around until you meet others with cars. Taxi's are not common in that area I don't think so you'll need to collect many umbers of private drivers, a good reliable one I use cost 40QR to go pretty much anywhere. I know a lot of the young teachers where I worked went to the Rugby Club. I can't think of any resorts near you, they are actually on the opposite side of town from you in West Bay/West Bay Lagoon. You will find it to be inconvenient and traffic is horrendous. Aspire Zone/park will be nearer to you (assuming the staff housing is close to the school). Also, I think you'll find the resort memberships to be pricey on a teachers salary...I know, been there, done that. better to get to know people with pools and facilities in their bldgs and compounds :) A friend is just involved with a 5 a side womens footy but again, not near to you, it's in Wakra www.qsportsleagues.com/leagues I am sure you will find that all the young'ish teachers will band together so if you were one of those kids that didn't make friends at summer camp, you'll find it hard here, otherwise...just have an open mind (I cant believe I am saying all this) and come here with the idea that you'll hate some days but hopefully are gaining experience and saving money! The school will be similar to a free school back home when it comes to books, supplies, kids, even though they are charging tuition, and education rules in Doha are usually just guidelines and sometimes optional...OH and just because it says it's a British Curriculum, it will probably be more Quasi-British :) I don't know if you could order one online but try to get your hands on a Marhaba - it's like a local guide that is published twice a year, it will tell you everything you need to know about Doha. <em>edited by ccdoha on 22/06/2011</em>
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 22 June 2011 - 13:38
I had to google it...I always wondered what those were called. I saw them first on the Discovery Channel once and I see them here sometimes carried by workers... I still wonder if there is sometime of method of packing the meal in the tin ones so that maybe the hot stuff is on the bottom and the heat rises to keep the other stuff warm? Just wondering?
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 22 June 2011 - 12:54
I saved this in my notes last year that someone else posted...(thinking one day DH would take me on holiday to somewhere exotic :) ) Just thought I'd let you know...I went to the new Messaimer clinic today and it does appear they still have a dedicated Vaccine Unit. It's on the front end of the building as soon as you drive in the gate. The nurses did my baby's four month vaccines without any hassle but they did say at the end that this clinic is more for "travelers and visitors" and they prefer the babies to go to a local clinic so they can be seen by a doctor and all. That being said, it was super quick, free and one hundred times better than the neighborhood clinics. Location is next to Qatar Scientific Club, very near to the liquor store. Off Salwa take Wholesale Market R/A (away from Al Waab) and it's down the road on the right. <em>edited by ccdoha on 22/06/2011</em>
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 22 June 2011 - 12:35
I was told yesterday by a government office that regardless of my sponsorship, I would be entitled to Single female housing benefit even though my husband is entitled to a housing allowance. My thinking was that he would have to switch to single housing allowance also...in the end it didn't work out because my husband is semi govt and they said the single female housing allowance didn't apply because DH gets a "govt house" instead of an allowance. Also, the company can give you the allowances regardless of your sponsorship, it is just negotiating them. At one job they led me to believe the local hire package was restricted but then I found out others were getting allowances even though they were local hires. In some cases, it benefits the employer if you go on your DH's sponsorship so I would just ask. <em>edited by ccdoha on 22/06/2011</em>
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 22 June 2011 - 12:14
they are putting up the ticket boxes at the car park entrances and exits as I type!!!! edited by ccdoha on 22/06/2011 I have to mention that I read the article and it made since but I was there this morning at 9:30 and the car park was EMPTY which leads me to believe that most people that work in the surrounding offices were already at work, don't you think? SO I am not so sure if it is the people that work in the offices around there taking up the spaces?? edited by ccdoha on 22/06/2011 I agree baffled, they should have put the first couple of hours free and charge after that. <em>edited by ccdoha on 22/06/2011</em>
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 22 June 2011 - 12:04
If you just want blood typing done, which I am not sure why that would need to be done on a visit but anyway, you can ask any taxi to take you to Doha Clinic and go to the 1st floor (if your british, if your american we call it the second floor :) )and it will cost you about 100 QR and takes about 30 min all and all. If he is doing the medical, which I doubt because that would mean he is staying for now as you cannot leave while your RP is being processed, then that is a different story. Word to the wise, taxi drivers will try to take advantage but they are very passive, you just have to let them know you are not to be taken...so always negotiate the price first...they always seem so sweet and say "no worries ma'am, you pay what you think" and when I pay what I think, they get all stroppy with me so it is just easiest to tell them to "put the meter" and "I need a receipt" I personally never wear anything shorter than capri pants. at night I almost always take a scarf (pashmina) to busy areas just in case. BTW - Friday is the major day off (Prayer and noon'ish) here so most things will be closed in the a.m. of course and everything, including the roads will be completely different to during the week. I too came to see Doha on a Friday and we left on Saturday and WHAT A SHOCKER when we moved here last year!! LOL
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 22 June 2011 - 11:52
OMG --- If I were coming from the USA right now my suit case would be bulging at the seams with the following... Victorias Secret Bras and panties spanx Aleve alka seltzer good ear plugs from target or walgreens - dont laugh - you might live in flight path or near mosque Hidden Valley ranch dressing packets Adobo spice OPI nail polish in my fav colours Bare minerals sun block powder/mineral Bare minerals eye liner in BROWN A decent bathing suit and board shorts/rash guard Nice shoes for work crocs styles that i like in every colour Dog bisquits/rawhides boxes of generic crystal light packets from walmart or target I would seriously consider treating yourself to an ipad ...not necessarily in that order :) I am sure that I could think of more as the day goes by... <em>edited by ccdoha on 22/06/2011</em>
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 21 June 2011 - 13:20
mystery solved...there is no NEW law, just govt agencies have been forced to enforce the 2009 law. :( Apparently, the govt office that is recruiting me is the last govt agency to convert to this "new" law, which is cutting the total package for govt employees (in my case) to about HALF. AAAAARRRRGGGGHHHHHHH
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 20 June 2011 - 10:27
do you mean the place next to the airport? If so, I went in the afternoon to extend my tourist visa, I can't say for sure what time but it was definitely after say 3...
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 20 June 2011 - 10:04
When they first went on sale I think it was virgin that had an open one that you could flip through.
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 20 June 2011 - 09:59
thanks ladies!!!
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 20 June 2011 - 09:56
I saw them in lakeland and also virgin, virgin had superhero ones for boys so maybe they will get some in again.
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 June 2011 - 14:48
I like Star of India. Personally I don't really like the dishes I've tried from Royal Tandoor but that is probably down to my amateur Indian palette - as in, I have only had Indian food in the UK :) so I don't really know what I am talking about :) Star if India is near TV roundabout and I just call and give them an idea of what I want and they send it, 4486 4440. They are open for lunch I think but then they close and reopen at 530 each night <em>edited by ccdoha on 19/06/2011</em>
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 June 2011 - 12:32
Being the good wife that I am...I just drove over there and got an appt for a couple of days later. DH went and was pleased with the level of care and the examination. It was 300QR. and yes, the admin staff were not very nice and even seem to think it was funny that I should actually be concerned or inquire regarding the experience of the dr's they have :(
697
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 June 2011 - 11:27
I will be happy to pay as it is sooooooo frustrating to not be able to go grocery shopping because there are no parking spots. I understand from a "mall shopper" perspective that it may seem unreasonable to have to pay to visit the mall but as this is my local grocery store, I really need to have a space to bring my groceries home.