marycatherine | ExpatWoman.com
 

marycatherine

marycatherine
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Latest post on 30 January 2013 - 06:19
9am to 9pm everyday except Friday
marycatherine
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Latest post on 29 January 2013 - 19:09
Hello admin - the restaurant section for Doha needs monitoring too. The Beijing restaurant near C ring was demolished nearly 3 years ago. If time out is a source used they are not very reliable in my experiencem
marycatherine
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Latest post on 29 January 2013 - 19:01
If your home doesn't need 4 hours worth of cleaning how about including ironing changinging bed clothes washing and hanging laundry emptying dishwasher etc - would that get you closer to the 4 hour min? unfortunately 4 hours seems to be the going min.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 28 January 2013 - 20:47
Just a caveat about Time Out - some info is out of date (by years, plural) or inaccurate. I suspect some info is net direct rather than actual research. Always a good idea to verify here first for accuracy and up to date info. Or just ask - we were all newbies at one point.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 27 January 2013 - 23:21
If this is your real name strongly suggest you make an alias asap. Companies here as at home monitor sites like these. Better safe than sorry in case a post is misinterpreted.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 27 January 2013 - 15:18
Here's an older thread about beauty supply shops, might be useful http://www.expatwoman.com/forum/messages.aspx?TopicID=91057
marycatherine
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Latest post on 25 January 2013 - 10:14
Adultery is illegal in all the GCC. Adultery is defined here as having s3x with anyone you're not legally married to. Penalties can be as severe as arrest, jailtime, lashes (not usual but has happened) and deportation. Those are the worst case scenario, more likely you would be arrested and deported. Do unmarried people have s3x and live together? Yes. But you need to be informed of what the consequences are no matter how improbable they may be. Also, be aware that neighbours or colleagues who are irked for whatever reason can report you - while the police won't come looking for you if you are discreet, they will act on complaints. Without a job you cannot get a residency visa or a work visa. Your boyfriend cannot sponsor you - you will have to find an employer who will do so - language schools like Berlitz DO NOT provide sponsorship, they usually hire people who are sponsored by their spouse. It is illegal to work here without sponsorship - again fines and possible deportation if caught. The more desirable employers demand and get qualified/certified K-12 teachers who have the documentation to teach in their home countries and curriculums. Schools that would hire a non-certified teacher are probably going to abuse them (non or slow payment, no benefits, long hours, little consideration). You need to educate yourself on what is available to someone with few certified qualifications for teaching and what is legal and illegal in UAE for living and working. <em>edited by marycatherine on 25/01/2013</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 24 January 2013 - 11:22
Thank you!
marycatherine
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Latest post on 24 January 2013 - 08:37
Does anyone know what the timings are for QAWS on the weekend? I've looked at the facebook page but can't seem to find them (but I'm hopeless with facebook :()
marycatherine
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Latest post on 23 January 2013 - 20:07
The water may very well be potable and palatable at the source. However, given construction and inspection standards,quality of materials used, and often open holding tanks (dust is the least of contaminants - try dead insects birds or small mammels) I'll buy bottled water thankyou
marycatherine
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Latest post on 22 January 2013 - 15:23
Undici is not far (part of the Marbella Resort) I would recommend calling ahead and arranging for a large group like yours. Heading away on Corniche Street (the souq is on the lagoon, keep that on your right) from the souq with the corniche on your right - the cafe is on your right about a 10 minute walk away. Parking can be difficult, I'd leave my vehicle at the souq. Remember Shajah is dry so you won't be able to indulge at lunch. <em>edited by marycatherine on 22/01/2013</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 22 January 2013 - 15:14
If you have cleaning help, either do without, or have someone in only once a month to do a "big clean". If you each have a car, get rid of one. Do you have it washed/detailed regularly? Do it yourself. When you do need to buy something, buy good quality. For example, I buy "good" cleaning products, use about 1/2 the amount specified on the package and almost always get good results (this works for laundry detergent especially). Do you send clothes to the cleaners? Why? If it's just hubbie's shirts and anything that requires pressing after a regular laundering, don't do it - wash it and press it yourself (and make sure he does his own , I wouldn't do someone else's ironing, it's a job I hate). I do it while watching TV or a movie once a week. If you pay your own utilities, run full laundry and dishwasher loads, turn off the AC in any rooms you're not actually using and try to accustom yourself to a warmer setting when the weather starts to turn.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 22 January 2013 - 15:05
stuffed pepper (refried beans with chorizo)
marycatherine
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Latest post on 22 January 2013 - 15:04
No doubt it is meant as a deterrent (and as a repsonse to previous complaints from tenants) about those who invite their friends for the day and abuse the priviledge. You could try approaching the landlord/property manager and seeing if there is a compromise for visiting family, but don't hold your breath.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 22 January 2013 - 14:12
I think I saw it at MegaMart last week.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 22 January 2013 - 11:23
I can, what are the hours on the weekend that I can drop them off?
marycatherine
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Latest post on 22 January 2013 - 10:37
In my own experience, my employment contracts here and in my home country have required that I do not discuss my salary with anyone inside or outside of the company, that the information is confidential. If a potential new employer asked me for the info, I would refuse to give it on those grounds. I've never been asked.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 22 January 2013 - 06:40
Why not pay it if you are indeed guilty of the infraction? The only people I know who have had fines reduced are local and doesn't inspire respect. I also doubt being new would be acceptable for speeding or crossing a red light those are infractions everywhere.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 21 January 2013 - 09:11
I support the OP in her plan to get to a country where she will have at least equal rights under the prevailing legal system before confronting her husband. If he and she wish to work on their marriage and get past this infidelity, kudos to them, but no way I'd risk losing my children to a legal system that does not recognize me as an equal to any male under the law.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 20 January 2013 - 10:00
This is the one I bought http://www.amazon.com/Rainshowr-CQ-1000-MS-Shower-Filter-Massaging/dp/B0007DFJII/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1358661330&sr=8-3&keywords=water+filters+shower Rainshow'r CQ-1000-MS Shower Filter with Massaging Shower Head is the product name if the link doesn't work. HTH
marycatherine
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Latest post on 20 January 2013 - 06:51
It is illegal to bring p0rk into Qatar and this is announced on all Qatar Air flights. If caught it will be confiscated and a note put on your file at Immigration. That said lots of people do bring it back but are well aware of the consequences.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 19 January 2013 - 14:07
Kimmc3 - you might want to try a water filter for the shower head (and/or tub) to try and alleviate your skin issues. The tap water here (besides the holding tank issues) is desalinated but not to the equivalent of the type of water we get from the tap at home. Since I bought mine online my hair has been less brittle and behaves more like it does when I leave here. There is a brand Blu available here, but I thought it was overpriced and bought mine through Amazon.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 16 January 2013 - 19:30
I find that the posts blend together and it's hard to figure out if someone is being quoted or if it's a double post. <em>edited by marycatherine on 16/01/2013</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 16 January 2013 - 19:29
I always crush the tablet first then mix the PB or whatever you're using. My dog loves canned cat food - stares at the cats until they've had what they want and then cleans out the bowls
marycatherine
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Latest post on 16 January 2013 - 19:26
Ezdan didn't open because of the knock on effect of the Villagio tragedy. Until that happened, and the resulting actual safety inspections and requiring buildings to meet codes it it probably still would have been delayed but not this long. IKEA was supposed to break ground 3 or 4 years ago and be up and running nearly 2 years ago. I didn't believe it then as there was no works started. However, when Al Futtaim (the group that runs IKEA in the Gulf) started hiring people nearly 8 months ago, and actually made an announcement last month (and they have a very good reputation in the GCC generally) I dared to get my hopes up, even though I've been in the Gulf for 12 years. Apparently the hold up is not that IKEA is not ready, but that Civil Defence is so bogged down with doing inspections everywhere still, that IKEA has not yet got to the top of the To Do list.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 15 January 2013 - 16:51
I had my last cut at Pour Elle at the Radisson (used to be the Ramada) corner of Cring and Salwa Road. Very happy with the cut and the service. I don't colour my hair so I can't help there. I have seen other posts in the past where people were happy with colour/highlights there too.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 14 January 2013 - 22:11
Not worth it. It is not just the voltage but also the wattage. If it is something you cannot live without maybe but be prepared for it to fry or pay $$ for high wattage step down transformers.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 14 January 2013 - 06:57
Can you source these items from a UK supplier? Then the voltage would be the same.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 19:54
Most importantly WHY? This is not a Western friendly investment real estate market. The legal system is not what most Westerners are familiar with and can change tomorrow and from case to case. Construction is poor andmaintenance often worse. Careful research is required. As with any investment -how much risk is she prepared to take and how much can she afford to lose?
marycatherine
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Latest post on 13 January 2013 - 19:47
I would get a confirmation on what the age of your car is according to the rules. A 2007 is a 2007 no matter when it was first registered in most jurisdictions and for insurance purposes nearly everywhere.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 12 January 2013 - 14:48
Daiso at Hyatt plaza?
marycatherine
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Latest post on 12 January 2013 - 13:33
There is a small shop in City Centre on one of the upper floors. Jarir Bookstores are probably the best bet for craft supplies - there is one near the Radisson (aka Ramada) intersection and another on Rayyan road after the Rayyan petrol station next door to FamilyvFood. If you're after something that you can't find a lot of us have a Shop n ship account with Aramex and shop online.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 10 January 2013 - 21:02
Personally, I wouldn't buy property in a country where the rules can be changed at a whim and without legal recourse. There are many people who have bought in UAE for example but being able to get residency with purchase has since gone wonky, many more own a flat 15 stories up in an invisible building and given the construction quality and inspection standards, you may not own anything in 20 years even if it exists today. You have to decide what degree of risk you are comfortable with, how long you realistically plan to stay and what kind of curve balls you're prepared to return.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 08 January 2013 - 18:58
Ask them to print off the repayment schedule and make an appointment with the Loan manager to explain it to you. Take your documentation of payments made and the loan agreements you signed. Should they balk tell them you will open a file with the central bank to pursue theenqiury ... And follow through. The central bank nay want a copy of your written request to Hxxx so make yourinitial interview request in writing and keep details of names/titles.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 08 January 2013 - 17:50
Most people have maids with child care experience. Neither paramedics nor childminders are likely to command even a comparable wage to western or european countries. These are jobs filled primarily by the afore mentioned maid/nanny who at best is making AED OR QAR 1500 per month live in working 6 day weeks. Most paramedic jobs are held by nonGCC arabs or Asians.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 08 January 2013 - 17:39
I doubt if you will find it here. If he needss it for the Dubai marathon perhaps he can get some when he lands in U A E if he can' t wait for an online order to be delivered.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 06 January 2013 - 19:38
Reporting him for the finger will bring charges. For bad driving a slap on the hand. The police didn't see either but take the former complaint more seriously. Go figure the logic.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 06 January 2013 - 15:46
US licenses are no longer automatically exchanged. I don't think you have to take the lessons but you will have to take the test. <em>edited by marycatherine on 06/01/2013</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 05 January 2013 - 16:45
Leaderpack
marycatherine
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Latest post on 05 January 2013 - 09:43
Don't bother, they are more trouble than they're worth as you will need a step down transformer with appropriate wattage - and those are big, bulky, and as parkclark said, not cheap. You can get satisfactory appliances here that won't break the bank. One of my favourites is a Braun stick blender which comes with a whisk attachment and a small chopping bowl with steel blades. Doesn't take up much room and makes creaming soups a breeze right in the pot.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 05 January 2013 - 09:39
Tavola, Lakeland, Family Food (Airport, upstairs), Daiso. The first 2 places are probably your best bet for a choice of sizes but they're also the priciest.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 03 January 2013 - 19:58
Qatar Air is not in the same league as Aramex in terms of customer service. I've had my fair share of set backs with Shop and Ship over 6 years, but they are quick to respond and to offer options/explanations. QA does not in my experience, ever.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 03 January 2013 - 19:22
If you are dealing with things second hand it can be extremely frustratng. I am assuming that your dh is employed and you are a trailing spouse? If so you need to sit back, take severeal deep breathes, and get on the good side of the PRO. One thing that will ease your sense of isolation is to get the number of a reliable driver. Fox Limo is one but they are so good you may have to book well in advance. Forget karwa. If you want to know more on where to shop for setting up essentials etc post here, the ladies are very helpful. There are various social groups take a look at some recent posts for options. Good luck
marycatherine
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Latest post on 03 January 2013 - 10:25
this has been announced nearly every year for the past 11 years. I'll believe it when I see it.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 02 January 2013 - 20:24
Give it a go and report back.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 02 January 2013 - 20:23
If you can make contact with one of the ice hockey teams you should be able to find someone who can sharpen your skates. The rinks here are not geared for people who want good skate sharpening. My contact (not in UAE) bought his own machine for the ice hockey community.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 02 January 2013 - 19:45
In my experience QA is second only to my national carrier in ignoring any customer query or complaint. Apparently deep pockets can get any star rating required for marketing purposes.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 02 January 2013 - 16:05
Unfortunately morning glories and the name that escapes me plant are often invasive although beautiful. Good luck if you're trying to eradicate it as morning glories tend to travel underground.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 02 January 2013 - 16:04
Buy live North American/Canadian lobster. Boil a large pot of water with lots and lots of sea salt (you want water similar to sea water) Plunge the lobster (without the rubber bands on their claws) into the water, put on the lid and let it cook for 12 - 18 minutes depending on how big the lobster is. Remove from the pot plunge into as cold water as you can, then remove and let drain for a few minutes. Crack and serve. You can have melted butter as a dipping sauce but not necessary IMHO
marycatherine
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Latest post on 01 January 2013 - 21:01
If it is the one I think you are referring to, it is not a morning glory or iponema. Someone once told me the name but sadly I have forgotten. The flower is an intense blue/purple and looks more like a sweet pea flower (which also grow well here) but not conelike like a morning glory? They develop seed pods and the seeds are quite easy to sow and grow. So if you have a neighbour or a plant nearby, harvest the pods, dry them, extract the seeds and voila - beautiful creeper
 
 
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