JillMV | ExpatWoman.com
 

JillMV

JillMV
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Latest post on 31 July 2011 - 20:34
In the past, I have gotten take-away lunch (sandwiches and salads) at Paul. Other than Paul, I've gotten some things at the Carrefour counter - fried chicken, that sort of thing.
JillMV
445
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 July 2011 - 14:20
Thanks- will give it a try!
JillMV
445
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 19 July 2011 - 09:11
It depends on the compound. A compound we lived in previously refused to remove anything from the house, and told us that if they removed it, we'd have to pay for storage of the items! I know of a few compounds that are like that, but I think most are happy to remove items.
JillMV
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Latest post on 19 July 2011 - 09:08
oh wow - does he have a recipe he'd be willing to share. I never even thought about trying to make it myself. Do you need a carbonater? We have never found one here -- and although we find them in Europe, we can't figure out where you'd get the CO2 bottles...
JillMV
445
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 18 July 2011 - 15:47
At least they sell it! When we first moved here it was no where to be found and now I can finally find it fairly regularly.
JillMV
445
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 July 2011 - 11:58
Ccdoha-- you can definitely renew RPs at the post office -- iv'e done it a few times. I'm not sure if you can get the first one, but probably. My husband and I did all of my paperwork when I moved here, and our maid's as well. We did need a letter from dh's company, but it was MUCH faster if I did it than if I waited for them to.... and I did not want to be apart from my passport. Unfortunately, I don't really remember much of the process anymore, but it's not that hard.
JillMV
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Latest post on 12 July 2011 - 09:51
things may have changed--but 5 years ago, I got a temporary Drivers License before I got my RP, because we owned a car. its insurance was only valid if the driver had a valid Qatari license (and temporary is considered valid).... The insurance company very specifically told us that, but it's possible that different companies have different policies. As I understand, I could have driven a rental on an International license for 6 months, or on the US license for 1 week.
JillMV
445
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 10 July 2011 - 11:56
The Education City university HR depts are definitely open all summer --- it's usually busy season getting ready for all the new employees:)
JillMV
445
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Latest post on 10 July 2011 - 09:36
at ASD they play Lacrosse in gym class, but I'm not sure if they have a team. The Rugby club is the best place to start -- there is (or was) also an Aussie football group here which is remotely close to American football...
JillMV
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Latest post on 10 July 2011 - 09:32
execlawyer -- I went to a private middle school and the whole time we had 14-15 max in our class... we even broke up into two sections for math and science! The small class was not a problem socially -- it just meant that a lot of people had friends in both the grade above and the grade below..
JillMV
445
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Latest post on 10 July 2011 - 09:28
Cornish Girl -- I had never heard anything about drs not treated alcohol related issues... What do you mean by that? If you are drunk in your own house, then fall and hit your head, would they not care for you? Or is it that they won't give alchoholics a new liver?
JillMV
445
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Latest post on 07 July 2011 - 12:17
I like to go to Picasso's at the ramada for this type of thing -- it's tapas, so you don't have to have a big meal, and it usually seems to be relatively inexpensive... plus, then you could always go to Bubbles after... there are a ton of restaurants and bars in the Ramada and they're generally cheaper than the other hotels...
JillMV
445
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Latest post on 06 July 2011 - 15:34
Thanks Amy! definitely, if you water your own plants, do it ridiculously early in the morning and late at night -- that way the water doesn't evaporate before it hits the gournd! My dh rigged up some irrigation system -- it actually isn't that complicated, but it has a timer and works pretty well.
JillMV
445
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 July 2011 - 14:13
Thanks! Where is Al Zajel pet center?
JillMV
445
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 July 2011 - 11:49
can't help with the gardener -- but where did you get the dog door? we always talk about getting one -- because at the moment, our dog just opens the back door, but never learned to close it when she comes back in and all the AC goes out the door!
JillMV
445
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 July 2011 - 09:34
We also have a couple of sleepping bags from Carrefour - and they're perfectly fine for any night in Qatar... have used them a bunch. I have noticed that GoSports has started to carry a bunch of hiking and camping equipment. They have a surprising selection of backpacks and gear. I haven't looked for nice sleeping bags there, but it they might have some.
JillMV
445
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 30 June 2011 - 17:50
There is a Birkenstock store in "The Mall-" I don't know if they sell any shoes that could deal with the water, but for sandals, they have pretty good arch support. Might also try Timberland / Sun, Sand and Sports in City Center.
JillMV
445
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 07 June 2011 - 10:12
There is a store I know of in Najma that may do it -- its name is literally something like "Store for mirrors and glass." Although, I think they may only do straight plates of glass - not sure. We used to go there for framing, they were always good, but I haven't been there in a few years. If you drive down mansoura St from Muntazah/ najma area toward Al Matar Rd, it's almost at the end on the right -- pretty close to the intersection of Mansoura Rd and Al Matar. As Sam said, otherwise, you should probably be able to find a place in the najma hardware souk.
JillMV
445
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 06 June 2011 - 10:34
Unfortunately, calling seems to be useless at the hospitals (and most places in Doha!) If they answer, they can't answer your question and tend to drop your call! You can get appointments at Al ahli, but there, the appointment system is also somewhat worthless, as they take walk-ins as well. Hamad does appointments as explained below. At Al Emadi, they only do walk-in, and you don't wait too long.
JillMV
445
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 01 June 2011 - 10:39
I'm with Gina on this one... I fly all the time, and Doha is SO quick and easy. I love it. Dubai is very nice and I like their restaurants, etc, but the immigration line always seems to be horrendous, and it takes forever to walk through the terminals. But Dubai is a really huge airport - don't really think you can compare the two. Yes, the buses to the airplane in Doha are annoying and the secondary screening for US flights is a pain, but I'm glad they have that screening because the rest is not the best. I love that I can get to the airport the minimum time in advance and not worry about missing the flight. I also love that it is so close to all of Doha. It makes traveling a breeze! My main airport in the US is JFK-- and let's just say it is NOT the same experience! Have to travel 2 hours to get there (or 4 in traffic), then have a battle of the security line, and could miss your flight jsut getting to the gate. I'd take the Doha airport anyday!
JillMV
445
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 30 May 2011 - 11:50
FINALLY!!!! I am always make a fuss and demand to get a coin instead of gum..... When I first moved here and wasn't successful getting the coin, the next time I went to the store, i took back a packet of gum to pay the .50!
JillMV
445
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 29 May 2011 - 10:48
Fabios Fabios Fabios!!!! by far the best... Only take-away. They deliver or you can pick up. Only draw-back is that they are cash-only. The pizza shop has a table to sit at as you wait for your pizza to be made, but it's not an eat-in restaurant. It's located in Azizya... on the street between the big one with Garveys etc and Sport city Road. Sorry can't give you better directions. Although it's located in Azizya, they deliver anywhere. I only go there in person if I'm already out in that direction and I think by calling ahead and picking it up I might get it a little faster.
JillMV
445
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 May 2011 - 19:19
my stepdaughter got her RP this summer and was 16 at the time -- they gave her a Qatar ID.
JillMV
445
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 May 2011 - 19:18
Blue Salon is the only liscensed distributor, I'm 99% sure, cause looked into buying one a while back.
JillMV
445
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 May 2011 - 19:16
I do not connect to people I don't know--- unless they have written me an email with a good reason of why to connect (like we're in the same industry, etc, etc). Maybe check how public your profile settings are. you may have more people looking at it than you really want..
JillMV
445
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 May 2011 - 19:14
Have only had great experiences. Would recommend asking for a window -- and if it's a birthday/ anniversay/ special occassion, mention it when you make the reservation. The chocolat fondant w/ vanilla ice cream I had there a few weeks ago was honestly the best I've had in my life... would suggest that!
JillMV
445
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 May 2011 - 10:22
Thanks. Great news:) I'm just going to go while I'm at the airport. I'll be there early enough with time to kill I'm sure!
JillMV
445
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 May 2011 - 09:15
We came thinking max two years -- now we'll hit five in Sept! And if things continue as they are, we should be here until atleast June 2013....
JillMV
445
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 16 May 2011 - 23:57
The big problem is when his RP expires and he's out of the country. then you pull your hair out and scream! Now it's just some money (maybe). Hasn't happened to me, but happened to a friend. Don't advise letting it happen to you!
JillMV
445
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 May 2011 - 21:28
-Her passport and ID (not sure her ID was needed, but I took it with me) -Photocopy of your RP & ID -debit/ credit card A form signed by the sponsor -- they have the forms at the post office so if you go there and are the sponsor, you just have to sign the blank form. <em>edited by JillMV on 14/05/2011</em>
JillMV
445
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 May 2011 - 21:13
I just did this in April -- but seem to have forgotten the price. It wasn't high enough to leave an impression! I'm pretty sure it was QR 900 for 2 year renewal with Renewed ID card as well. Did it at the Post Office -- it was simple, no line, really fast.
JillMV
445
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 09 May 2011 - 22:43
I had an ovarian cyst rupture not too long ago - big ordeal. Up until that experience, I had no similar problems, so I am not sure how related it would be to PCOS. But from my experience, the Ob/Gyns at Al Ahli were not so great, even the ones who get consistant praise on this board --I'm sure they're wonderful for delivering babies, but i'm not sure about other issues. I have had excellent experiences with Dr. Sonia Abu Saba at Al Emadi - who is always wonderful and also Dr. Rehab (?) at Al Emadi (who I saw when Dr. Sonia was on vacation). Dr. Sonia knows her stuff and has an excellent bed side manner. I am also very confident that if she is not a specialist in this, she would refer you to a good one -- she is not confined to the Doha mentatlity -- she let us know about medication that is available in Dubai & Lebanon, but not in Doha, and fortunately, my husband was able to fly and get it. I would say start with her, and even if it isn't her specialty (which it could be, I have no idea), she could point you to the best dr. One thing about Al-Emadi -they seem to like to ask new ob/gyn patients for their marriage certificates !?!?! It never happened to me, but it has happened to two of my friends, so may be best to be prepared. <em>edited by JillMV on 09/05/2011</em>
JillMV
445
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 08 May 2011 - 21:49
For what you're looking for, I agree that Fox is probably the best option. You can rent a Fox Limo for the day for QR 300---- I think it's probably the best bet because a)it's what you'd spend on lots of individual taxi rides 2) they know where they're going and 3)if it's a dedicated taxi for the day, you don't have to worry about finding a taxi. +974-4462-2777 Al Muftah rent a car also rents cars with drivers for the day for a similar price. google them online. There are definitely private cars available, but unfortunately, the ones I use cannot committ a full day during a work-day :(
JillMV
445
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 08 May 2011 - 21:42
interestingly, I have found the same exact paintings at ID Design as Home Center... there was one of NYC that I particularly liked, purchased and hung in my bedroom from HomeCenter. It cost QR 100. Then I was at ID Design, and the same exact pic at ID Design was QR 1000!!!! Studio Qatar on Salwa showcases some local artists and photos of Qatar landscapes. some of the assorted arts & crafts fairs seem to sell better art than the local stores.
JillMV
445
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 May 2011 - 01:39
I swam too much and worked the rest of the day every summer.... DH and I are trying to come up with worthwhile stuff for my stepdaughter to do during the summer... I know about all the Education City programs --- and they're fantastic, but I'm not sure if they'll work out for our timing this summer. Did anyone do anything fantastic as teenagers that they think all kids should do??? (doesn't need to be available in Qatar!!!)
JillMV
445
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 04 May 2011 - 01:24
Think the first question is... what country are you from? If you're from one of the 32, no prob... but if not- you will need a visa. Also check what your boarding card says--- if you want to go into Doha, make sure you have two different boardng cards. Other question -- what airline are you flying, and what class? For some airlines/ classes you might even qualify for you to go to a hotel. <em>edited by JillMV on 04/05/2011</em>
JillMV
445
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 02 May 2011 - 09:54
FYI- The US State department has issued a world-wide alert. Essentially to be cautious and prepared for retalitory attacks....
JillMV
445
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 25 April 2011 - 10:11
The only Catholic Church I know of is the official one near the industrial area. I don't go there - but have friends who attend regularly. There are various services throughout the week in different languages - French, Spanish, Italian, English, Malayam, Tagalog, etc. Website: http://www.rosarychurchqatar.com/ I have always found churches to be welcoming and an excellent place to meet people -- not a place to worry about knowing people beforehand. I would say pick your language and you are likely to find people of a similar background. And of course- everyone would be an expat-- don't think there are any Qataris going to mass!
JillMV
445
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 23 April 2011 - 21:42
It seems like we're missing part of the story-- was he turned around at passport control or did Fly Dubai refuse to issue him a boarding pass? Sometimes coming into Qatar, it is easier to get a visa if you book with Qatar Airways, just as it is easier to get a visa to Dubai if you go on Emirates... but it would not make any difference leaving...
JillMV
445
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 April 2011 - 23:08
I think you may need to go in person to one of the branches :/
JillMV
445
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 21 April 2011 - 22:59
I have received gift certificates to Virgin and Marks and Spencers. I'm pretty sure Faces does them too. I have had vouchers to the ritz and marriott for spa treatment-- so they may do them for restaurants as well.
JillMV
445
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 20 April 2011 - 23:15
Mail seems to be subject to different regulations... I seem to think you can't send anything that could be considered food without a special permit -- and I think seeds may fall into that category. If you didn't have to stopover in Australia, then you could bring as many seeds as you wanted -- fresh fruit even... no laws about that sort of thing here - there's not much native produce to harm!
JillMV
445
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 18 April 2011 - 22:36
I have a bunch of favorites for different occasions: Laid-back but great food: lo Spaghetto (off all Saad st) Take-out/ delivery pizza: Fabio's (al Azizya area, but delivers all over) Nice dinner out: Pampano (Pearl) Anniversary Dinner: Le mer (Ritz) Relatively Cheap eats & Drinks with group: Picasso's (Ramada) Local Flavor: The Qatari restaurant in the Souq or Al Majlis off Al Saad or Dip Club if have guests who want Arabic & booze.
JillMV
445
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 17 April 2011 - 15:33
I only know of two. 1) The official Al Fardan dealership shop-- which is in the Industrial Area 2)Another shop-- off Salwa Rd. Unfotuantely, I don't remember the name or number, and now with all the construction, the easiest approach is from the road parallel to Salwa-- you'll see a bunch of old Landrovers parked there. As I remember - coming from the industrial area - it's on the right just before Sports City Road. We took our car there recently. It was cheaper than the dealership, but I was not impressed and wouldn't really recommend them. Plus I think they only accept cash.
JillMV
445
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 16 April 2011 - 22:07
I think Trinity Talent might be able to put you in touch with someone. http://www.trinityqatar.com/
JillMV
445
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 16 April 2011 - 21:56
A handful of places have thursday afternoon off and friday off (I'm thinking particularly of some clinics/ doctors offices). But a lot of people have friday & saturday off.
JillMV
445
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 14 April 2011 - 16:01
In addition to everything below: Would also recommend giving Qatarat and the Pearl a visit-- perhaps dinner at one of them. ON hot days have enjoyed the Dohaland/ musheireb barge by the sheraton for a quick mini-museum and escape from heat. My mom enjoyed going to the horse races -- every thursday night (but the season may be over -- or it will be soon). Maybe point out Education City on the way to Zubara or Sheikh Fiasal's. Have a picnic at Aspire park on a weekday.
JillMV
445
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EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 13 April 2011 - 10:09
Like Rachel said -- one time I had a Loading in improper zone fine (or something like that). I asked the PRO at work -- and when he looked it up on the internet -- in Arabic it actually said Speeding.
JillMV
445
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 April 2011 - 21:39
We had a couple of business guests request to move to the Ritz because of the plane noise (and they had stayed at the Ritz many times before and I think just prefer it....) but we have had plenty of other guests stay at the Sharq and rave about it. I have never been in a guest room -- but in the ballrooms, spa, lobby, and restaurants/ bars, I have never noticed the planes -- but outside by they pool/ beach, they are loud, low and frequent.
JillMV
445
Posts
EW EXPLORER
Latest post on 12 April 2011 - 19:42
qatar living would probably have them for sale... but I don't know how easy it would be to find a good 2nd hand laptop... usually people only get rid of them when they stop working well :(
 
 
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