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CSH

331
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 03 August 2011 - 02:02
Try Dr Sivam at Future Dental Clinic opposite Villagio. He is UK trained and very good.
331
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 03 August 2011 - 01:57
I expect you have thought of it it - but what about the International School of music behind Lulus? Also there are some trumpet players in the QPO that offer lessons on the side - but probably most are away now on holiday. Perhaps look on Qatar Living for them?
331
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 July 2011 - 22:44
This is probably too late but for anyone else.....both the chargers went on each of my kids DSs. I went back to Virgin as the DS was within the guarantee to be told it doesn't cover the charger!! Of course!! So in the end I bought a multi-charger which works with other things as well. The girl in Virgin said that the DS chargers are useless and the one I bought (although a different make) was heaps better. So far she is right!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 July 2011 - 17:40
Dr Ulrike Bode, Al Alhi hospital. Excellent. I have seen her and my husband had a procedure with her. Very knowledgeable and efficient. Knows her stuff!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 09 July 2011 - 22:19
I found it really hard to find the right size crocs here. They have some sizes, but not all. I ended up in C4 and found some imitation ones but they only lasted one week!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 July 2011 - 16:48
If you use gas perms bring the liquids/tablets for cleaning etc with you as they are very difficult to find here. With the sand and dust people seem to prefer the soft/disposables contacts.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 July 2011 - 16:46
The Henry is great with the dust and our dog - I have allergies and it works really well. I live out of Doha where the wind is much worse so I get a lot of sand in my house! I have never had a Dyson so can't comment but I have a friend who swears by hers. If you want LG - go to Jumbo - their prices are better than C4.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 July 2011 - 16:40
Al Mushiri is a bizarre shop but I like it! If you are driving from the Ramada lights towards the Centre go down to the roundabout at the Jaidah flyover. Turn left. After 30 m you will see the shop on your left and you park right outside. I think it is a cream building. It does have local hours (shuts for lunch and early afternoon). Always ask for the best price! They have other household items such as water coolers, all cheaper than C4. The hoover I have is the Mr Henry range (they come in different colours according to size) is GB made and pretty solid. I had the same problem with the LG I had - the parts fell apart. All the clunking on the tiled floor I think is hard going on the head of the hoover.
331
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 03 July 2011 - 17:31
Overall I think I have bought about a hoover a year since being here - not sure where I went wrong other than I bought them all in C4 - including the LG one. The climate here is terrible for hoovers and they cover large areas of tiles. Having said that my latest hoover has lasted over 2 years - yeah! It is an English make - Mr Henry. No bags and very solid. The whole range (mine is the big one) are sold in Al-Mushiri - just past the roundabout under the Jaidah flyover. Would highly recommend it. No frills just a high powered bagless hoover.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 03 July 2011 - 17:27
There is a shop in the indoor part of the gold souk who sells some nice pearls - different colours. Go in and then turn left around the corner, he is about third on the left. He has some nice gems as well. There are other shops and you can haggle on prices and settings etc. They are mostly `man-made' factory pearls. The prices aren't bad as a result.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 July 2011 - 21:38
I have never had a problem ordering from the UK. In fact S and S changed my life - how sad is that!?! Although the shopping in Qatar has got hugely better over the years there are still some things you find you can't live without. I just wish Aramex would get more organised in their `office'. When they moved from Salwa Road a few years ago I hoped it would be better but it has got worse! If the delivery numbers are anything go by Aramex is obviously very popular here, even with the locals.
331
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 July 2011 - 21:31
I have had no problems with HSBC and find it easy to move money home etc. Doha Bank is fine as well.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 30 June 2011 - 16:42
What I tend to find is that when I ask for cotton they offer you poly-cotton which is very thin. If you want 100% cotton you have to hunt a bit. Have you tried upstairs in Souk Al-Asiery? If you go upstairs there is a little shop just on the left (last in the row) who has had some nice bright colours in. He is charging a little more (15-20 QR) per metre for this. But it is nice! Sorry if you have already tried upstairs!
331
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 June 2011 - 16:50
I would second Lioninthesun - I have used it for a long time and have always been pleased with their products. They usually last for a year.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 June 2011 - 16:49
I would like to come along but August is holiday month for some. Could we join later on when we are back do you think?
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 June 2011 - 19:46
In Hallmark at the moment they are selling scrapbook kits for little girls. They are lovely and my daughter loved hers. A great gift.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 June 2011 - 19:44
For future reference for anyone, they sell a good range at Al-Mushiri just past the Jaidah flyover. They have the junior range as well - suitable for girl guides, scouts, International Award etc.
331
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 16 June 2011 - 17:10
Yes, sounds right. They moved from the Al Ahli recently. Don't be put off by admin or front desk attitude. They are typical of medical places here but they have good doctors. If you go there, explain what you want they will give you an appointment. This is much the best way - forget the telephone. I can never get what I want anywhere over the phone!
331
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 16 June 2011 - 17:04
I do think some of the roundabouts have improved since they had traffic lights put in - eg Sports roundabout. However, roundabouts are the absolute worst stress creator.......my worst moment was when the lorry in front of me tipped over on its side! I never drive on the inside of lorries on roundabouts now, if I can at all help it. I definitely agree - personality transformation whilst driving is the norm for me around Doha.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 June 2011 - 17:29
If his situation is that unique why don't you go the Magrabi Ear and Eye clinic? D Ring. They should offer a specialist service.
331
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 15 June 2011 - 17:27
Another gyne at the Hamad I would recommend is Dr Riad (male, Arab) and not IVF, just regular ob/gyn. Very experienced. Beware of private clinics that may only offer money making treatements. The Hamad is best. I do know Dr Abdul Rahman and he is a ob/gyn and he specialises in keyhole type surgery. He used to work at the Hamad a few years ago. You sound like you definitely need a second opinion. Keep trying to find a doctor until you are happy. I have had my own saga here so fully sympathise. Good luck.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 June 2011 - 16:25
If you want fresh and local, drive out to Shahaniya and go to the nursery. Go beyond where you would usually stop for plants and park at the end. Just wander in and see what they have. Their celery is definitely the best I have ever seen here. Or there is a fruit and veg shop that used to be good (haven't been for a while) - it is just along from Immigration in Al Garaffa. Arabic name. If you leave the Immigration building and head towards Qatar Foundation, stay in the slip road, and the shop is the last on the right. Park outside. I think most of it is Lebanese. I juice a lot and I'm afraid I just shut my eyes when the bill comes!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 June 2011 - 16:29
Would you recommend a printer to go to for this TP? It sounds a lovely idaea. Also what size works best do you think? Thanks
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 June 2011 - 16:26
My kids really like it as it is casual and relaxed. They would choose to go to the Ramada first over any other hotel. If you just want a good meal in relaxed circumstances then it is great. Personally I like the food - it is not the smartest/grandest place but the service is excellent. Try it!
331
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 11 June 2011 - 15:36
The Islamic Art museum gift shop has some unusual things which make nice gifts.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 June 2011 - 22:29
I arrived here pregnant and went to the Hamad without an RP or Health card and they saw me without problem. Undoubtedly it would be easier to have both, however, don't let it put you off. You need medical support and they will offer it. The Hamad was way better than I experienced in UK, once you get to the doctors!! Good luck whatever your choice. I hope you have a safe delivery.
331
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 June 2011 - 16:50
There is a shop just by the Jaidah Flyover which sells Bernina machines and Elna machines. It also services them. It has all the parts etc. I take mine there and have never had problems. It is called Al-Mushiri. From Ramada lights go down to the roundabout under the flyover. Turn left. Almost immediately on the right is this shop. It opens morning until 12 ish and then again in the evening. It is a great shop - sells all kinds of things including quad bikes, electronics, household goods etc. Worth a look!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 June 2011 - 20:46
Just walk into the Hamad Hospital with all the usual documentation including marriage certificate and register - go to the outpatients department. They will make you an appointment asap. The first question they always ask is `you pregnant?' - but I expect you look like you are anyway!! The Hamad is the public hospital.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 June 2011 - 20:43
Take all the documents to Immigration near the Al Garaffa flyover. It used to be that the original sponsor had to take all the paperwork, but it may have changed.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 June 2011 - 20:42
Babies are vaccinated at three days old - before they leave the hospital. Beware - for some schools it is compulsory that all children are vaccinated against this. Personally, I would vaccinate and be safe - all that spitting that goes on here!! As a disease I believe it is on the increase around the world so if you travel there is a risk as well.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 June 2011 - 15:18
Personally I think they should build the new airport out of town - near Shahaniya - and cut all the traffic around the airport. In Abu Dhabi the airport is out of town and it is fine. I don't understand this thing about building on reclaimed land. As for queues....I have stood outside at 5am waiting to get in the departures terminal -with kids, in the heat and it is not fun. I have nearly missed a flight twice despite being there 90 mins early. So I think it depends on when you travel as to what experience you have at Doha airport!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 May 2011 - 16:44
I'm pretty sure my husband did this online last year. It was really easy. MOI website. Is your maid registered to `beep' your phone when she passes through immigration by the way? This is quite a handy thing to have - also on MOI website. Our maid returned to Qatar when we were in the UK and knowing she was (for definite) back in Qatar was really helpful.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 May 2011 - 19:11
Souk Al Asiery is the best for that. It is air-conditioned. Drive down Grand Hamad Street towards the corniche and opposite Souq Waqif you will see a right turn. Take that and continue for a few hundred yards, go over the mini roundabout and Souk Al Asiery is on the left - maroon/grey pillars. Go early - 8.30 am and get a space to park. Don't forget to haggle for the price per metre!
331
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 May 2011 - 19:07
when people start talking about where and when they going on leave........
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 May 2011 - 19:04
The baby shop on the third floor of City Center - next to Eli France restaurant - sells some Chicco bits.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 May 2011 - 16:34
Souk Al Asiery is the one with maroon coloured pillars the next block up from Al Diera. It has much the better selection for cottons and everyday materials. Al Diera is great for evening style materials though.
331
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 22 May 2011 - 16:32
The Grand Hyatt does have some child-friendly food which is good. There used to be a room across the lobby which had a tv and some play mats in. However, it is not visible from the restaurant. OK if you have older children or someone to supervise. When it's not so hot you can sit outside there and then the children have plenty of space to play. Not sure about 4Seasons. Our kids like the GH though - great food selection and the staff are friendly towards children.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 May 2011 - 15:40
Why don't you use aramex and get what you want that way?
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 20 May 2011 - 16:59
My kids always ask to go to the Ramada - their preference, not necessarily mine. They feel more relaxed there I think.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 20 May 2011 - 16:58
Souk Al Asiery or Souk Al Diera both sell textiles of varying quality and price. Have a look in Marhaba book for map - all the souks are marked. Go upstairs in Al Asiery for a better price. Happy shopping!
331
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 May 2011 - 16:47
I remember when we had to physically go to the immigration building by the airport in order to get our exit visas before the flight! That really was a pain. I guess it is the same building behind the airport but just is used less!
331
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 May 2011 - 16:43
We are about to start our 8th year here......yes, lots of people have come and gone but so have lots of buildings!! I guess you either love it or hate here. And we were expats elsewhere before coming here. Will we ever go home I wonder??!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 May 2011 - 17:48
If you have a contact in HR at work they will guide you through it. It means doing the paperwork yourself and going to Immiigration etc. If you have no guy at work then I would go to Immigration (Al Garrafa) and ask. It could take a while.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 05 May 2011 - 17:47
Some of the larger Qatari companies take ages!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 May 2011 - 22:00
I don't know if you can get these now but a few years ago I had to order a sleeping bag for my newborn (I swear by them!) and then I had to order larger ones as well.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 April 2011 - 20:03
Yes it is. I know a few people who have done it. Contact the Uni and they will give you the details. You have to find a school to support you in Doha for you to do it.
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 April 2011 - 17:28
I also go to Faces, either in Landmark or City Centre. They sometimes have visiting make-up artists for the brands they sell. Ask when one is coming. I went to see the Bobbi Brown one a few months ago and he was fantastic. Either way I think they stock the better ranges and usually carry more stock. Sephora - personally I think thye are useless!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 April 2011 - 17:26
Drive from the Ramada lights along the C ring - Hamad direction. Go past Al Saad junction and then on the right you will see shops like Blue Salon and some car showrooms (BMW maybe?). Just after the car showrooms there is a right turn next to some really old apartment buildings. Go down there and about 50 metres on your right pull in and park. Oriental carpets is around the back of the building - you will see signs. Happy shopping!
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 April 2011 - 22:16
Definitely go indoor skiing - my teenage boys love it. We try to go each year. See if there is something else on such as a sports event, or concert which they might like. What about Atlantis or Wild Wadi? Atlantis have a deal on at the moment. While they are skiing you can shop at The Mall. I think you can go up the tallest tower now as well- they renamed it - can't remember the name! There is plenty to do!
331
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 April 2011 - 22:12
You can't book a private room at the Hamad until you have had the baby......so there is every chance you might not get a room. However, when all is said and done you will get good clinical care I'm sure. They will try their best not to give you a Csection unless you really need one.