marycatherine | ExpatWoman.com
 

marycatherine

marycatherine
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Latest post on 30 May 2011 - 20:10
Welcome to the Gulf? Qatar is about where the UAE was 10 years ago in terms of consistency. I buy twice as much as I know I will need to try and get thru the droughts where I can't find the right cat food or litter. (Or the "right" toilet paper for myself for that matter). Things are brought in in bulk, people like me snap up what they think will be missing in action for days, weeks, months at a time. Other than that, can't help, but don't block me from getting the canned food my girls like!!!!
marycatherine
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Latest post on 30 May 2011 - 17:03
My place is a little side street, mostly philippina ladies, and one does an excellent job on my hair. I'll try to find the name and give some directions and it is probably the shady side of 100 Riyals for wash cut and blowdry but I get what I want. Sometimes it's hard to make a recommendation because we all have such different expectations etc. Good luck on your search.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 30 May 2011 - 17:00
On D ring road just as you pass Rayyan Road going towards Land mark you will see a large treed lot that looks like it would be good to walk dogs and get shade - worth checking out - there is a school across the street (Modern English School maybe?) I have always taken my dog out at 0500 hrs to avoid hot pavement/ground.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 30 May 2011 - 06:09
I would suggest a stand alone villa rather than a compound both in terms of yard space as well as minimizing possible complaints - especially from people of various cultures who do not have dogs as pets usually. As for places to walk - I've used various large empty lots near where I live where puppy can run around (my dog comes when it's called) without fear of traffic and without frightening anyone who doesn't like dogs. For myself, I wouldn't like a compound for my dog (but then, I wouldn't live on a compound if I had the choice even if I didn't have the dog). <em>edited by marycatherine on 30/05/2011</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 29 May 2011 - 10:08
You may also find it in the cleanser aisle - Arm & Hammer brand (I think) says on the box "freezer/fridge deoderizer" (which baking soda can certainly be used for) - so it's stocked in the cleanser aisle.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 28 May 2011 - 21:25
Try Lucky's in Sharjah (4 warehouses full) - variety of shapes and sizes and they deliver
marycatherine
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Latest post on 28 May 2011 - 20:57
I'm always really surprised at this kind of reaction - after all, do we wonder if our masseuse is enjoying it more than we are???? (Given we are both female) My question to such a reaction is usually - do you consider yourself so physically attractive that the masseuse will jump you? Get real. You're not Brad Pitt. (or insert movie star of your choice). Men have a lot to learn IMHO about what is and is not attractive and what is and what is not a job.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 28 May 2011 - 08:05
Sorry Baffled, thought you might not be aware of how it works - no offense meant.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 27 May 2011 - 19:50
I doubt if the Sheikh who owns Karwa would have allowed you to compete anyways. That's why there's only one taxi company here.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 27 May 2011 - 11:45
Be careful what you wish for Baffled, they do have a ladies only taxi service (or did) in Dubai. If you think the fellas are surly and uncooperative - try putting a sourpussed cow behind the wheel. I tried them a couple of times, went back to using the regular cabs.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 27 May 2011 - 11:39
Inside is CBQ
marycatherine
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Latest post on 27 May 2011 - 11:38
I am very glad you've come to this decision glot, I am sure it wasn't easy (and your life won't be easy alone at first) but it is YOUR LIFE - you have a RIGHT to be happy, you have a right to expect understanding, support and nurturing from those who love you. All the best for the future - you are no longer a victim, you are in control - good on you.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 26 May 2011 - 21:09
Try Giant at Hyatt Plaza, spice sectio where the bags of spices are hung on a rack. I'm sure I've seen it there. What other food allergies are you interested in? Megabucks has a relatively good stock of gluten free products if you're willing to pay for them. Relative to what is another question
marycatherine
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Latest post on 26 May 2011 - 21:05
If you're not sure about meat, poach it in a vaccuum bag - it's cooked. Now freeze it , you can thaw it and brown it or BBQ it and it will be OK. Frozen veg are sometimes even a better option than fresh both in terms of quality and price. I freeze bananas, I can't stand soft ones for eating out of the skin. I use the frozen ones (skin on) for banana bread or smoothies. For smoothies the trick is to thaw them to where you can squirt/scoop the contents out without them being too liquid.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 25 May 2011 - 23:14
or you can cook the meat and then freeze it. I poach chicken quite often and freeze it for later use.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 25 May 2011 - 19:57
Bareeze has outlets in both Dubai and Sharjah and not only sell silk chiffon but embroidered silk chiffon which is gorgeous and priced accordingly.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 25 May 2011 - 19:55
Try Lakeland for the cupcake stuff as well - pricy but cute
marycatherine
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Latest post on 25 May 2011 - 07:31
I like the Blue souq (or as it is officially named, the Central souq) for my "carpet guy" Rashad at Sheba Carpets, the helpful fellows at Latas for silver jewellry and knick knacks. There are a number of gem stores as well where you can buy loose stones and have them made up for you in what ever design you wish.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 24 May 2011 - 08:04
I haven't lived in Sharjah for several years, my villa was near the big mosque on the book R/A. It had a great big yard was well arranged inside (3 bedrooms all with ensuites etc. etc). The only drawback was the kitchen - not very big. It backed onto a nursery school so the neighbours were no problem (no kids afternoons or weekends). So no idea about prices but drive around - mine was a single story villa (which I prefer) had huge patio doors on the front opening to the front garden from the dining room and living room and a separate maid "house" from the house.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 23 May 2011 - 18:49
if you're looking at a flat be sure it has assigned parking attached to the building especially in the corniche area. Parking of any kind is rare and starts to add up for a permit. I lived in Al Jazzat (near the "book" R/A or AKA Quran R/A) which is now an intersection. I had a great older villa, but perhaps that was because I had a great landlord. Near to airport road and not too bad to get to "downtown Sharjah" or Ajman
marycatherine
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Latest post on 23 May 2011 - 18:44
Have seen white corn tortillas in the dairy case at C4 on occasion - one of those hit or miss items.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 23 May 2011 - 09:01
Have you tried ECCO shoes, the range is a little limited but they have dress shoes, sandals and boots. I find (for me) that they are very comfortable from the first time I wear them
marycatherine
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Latest post on 23 May 2011 - 06:15
maybe take a copy of the list to your doctor to ensure it's not there under another name? I would also carry the doctor letter and the presciption. I guess a pertinent question is, is the medication available in UAE? If it is, even under a prescription, the letter and your prescription should be OK. I doubt if your own embassy/government would stick its neck out in such a case. Can you contact the UAE embassy in your country for assistance if you are still concerned?
marycatherine
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Latest post on 22 May 2011 - 21:56
I use liquid stevia - but I buy it at home and bring it back. Have only seen powdered stuff here - perhaps if enough people ask for liquid stevia they might stock it?
marycatherine
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Latest post on 22 May 2011 - 06:35
You can buy big American appliances here no problem. I can buy poppy seeds in the local mart in Doha - organic no less. Agree about clothing being more expensive generally.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 21 May 2011 - 07:37
US appliances work on 110v - electric system here is 220v. You can get step down transformers but you have to be careful of the wattage of the appliance you plug into them.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 20 May 2011 - 20:04
I'm a banker with years of international funds transfer experience. Cheques drawn on local banks have to clear within 24 business hours. It's the law with Qatar Central Bank. Cheques drawn on banks outside this country can take weeks and probably months to clear (and it's not cheap)
marycatherine
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Latest post on 20 May 2011 - 20:01
I would tell the bank that owns the ATM that they are responsible for all transactions at that ATM and that duplicale communciations will be filed witth the central bank. They can afford to be snotty with you they can't with the UAE central bank
marycatherine
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Latest post on 20 May 2011 - 19:58
I hope this is resolved quidkly and amicably for all concerned. However, it is a cautionary tale for thoes who have outstanding debts here - it may not be easy to leave as it is to acquire debt. Not saying this man did anything wrong, but it's fact of life and one worth remembering when buying property or going into debt.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 20 May 2011 - 17:17
There are motion controlled lighting systems. Is there such a thing as motion controlled sprinklers? I don't know, but I am practically positive it would keep the cats out. As an alternative, can you get some kind of wire (chicken wire for example) and put it down around the plants weighing it with some largish stones? If the cats can't dig, they are unlikely to poop
marycatherine
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Latest post on 20 May 2011 - 17:14
Per Qatar Central Bank, the day a local cheque is presented for payment it must (no ifs ands or buts) be sent to QCB for clearance by the end of business. The cheque must then be at the drawee bank (paying bank or where the account holder has his account) before 11 am of the next business day (to check availability of funds and signature). AT THE VERY LATEST the cheque should clear within 3 business days - most do within 24 hours. If they don't - you can file a complaint with the QCB on their website.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 20 May 2011 - 06:41
File a report with the bank that owns the ATM as well as your own bank. You have the receipts (give them the transaction #, the date, time and place) - the bank has cameras on or around the machine (they all do). It will take an interminable amount of time, but I would expect you will get your money back. You won't if you don't file a report though.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 19 May 2011 - 19:44
Cheques drawn on a bank outside Qatar are handled on a collection basis. They have to be sent back to the overseas bank for verification of signature and sufficiency of funds. No bank here has access to overseas accounts. The time delay is to allow for the posting/receiving/verification of the cheque and then the remittance of the funds by the overseas bank. This can be very expensive. Anything handled manually by the banks attracts surcharges. Usually not worth it for anything under the equivalent of USD100 and only if you'll be happy with receiving less than 50% value. Better to get a bank draft issued on a Qatari Bank (yes it is possible) or an electronic wire transfer. Faster and less expensive.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 19 May 2011 - 19:40
If you're looking for quality cotton (shirt weight) or suiting materials, go to a men's tailoring shop. I go to Al Awadi just off Bank Street (officially Grand Hamad street). Coming from the Mall turn right onto C ring left at Toyota (Airport Road). Under the crossed swords and next set of lights to second set (near the Islamic tower) u-turn, first right. Al Awadi is on that street on the right hand side. BUT IT IS EXTREMELY DIFFICULT to get a parking space on that street. Suggest you go early (they open at 830) and park on Grand Hamad where the banks are. HTH For raw silk etc, Bombay Silk is supposed to be the best but someone else will have to provide directions.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 18 May 2011 - 17:28
One item I would suggest you stock up on, if you're particular (like me), are bras. IMHO, the bra selection anywhere in the GCC is very poor - perhaps it's just my body type, but I see a lot of women whose "girls" are hanging around their navels.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 18 May 2011 - 17:25
You should go to the municipality - the info they give over the phone is not always accurate. Go and take a look for yourself for your own peace of mind.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 16 May 2011 - 20:40
Unfortunately? I'm one of those people who will complain about disruptive children at any paying venue - I'm not paying to "enjoy" their lack of parenting (this is not a commentary on maids - but lack of parenting skills). That said, I spent last Friday at a brunch where the parents (not maids) made sure their children were entertained without disrupting other diners. Bravo to them. As for maids at brunches, leave the children at home with them (and meals and an environment they can all enjoy) if the employer does not allow a day off (which I also don't agree with, but that's another thread)
marycatherine
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Latest post on 16 May 2011 - 20:28
Purex liquid detergent
marycatherine
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Latest post on 16 May 2011 - 17:50
If you can buy a "cloth" one rather than the usual plastic/latex. Can't tell you where to find them here as I got mine in my home country. It obviously is stretchy but not nearly as pinchy, tight or painful as a latex cap.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 16 May 2011 - 09:44
Have you tried Spinney's? Sometimes they carry it but like many specialty items, it's hit or miss.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 15 May 2011 - 20:07
I've had a double coated dog here since 2001 - and yes they are susceptible to overheating IF THE OWNER DOES NOT LOOK AFTER THEM PROPERLY. They have to be kept in AC for 4 - 6 months of the year, if not more. When exercising, especially in the hotter months, they have to be controlled so that they don't over exert themselves (tough to do with active , younger dogs) I always have bottles of cold water in the fridge and when we go out I have at least 2 - 1.5 l bottles of cold (if not partially frozen water) with me, one for the dog to drink frequently, the other to pour over shoulders and back if I think she's getting too hot - I usually only use about 1/3 - 1/2 bottle at a time.Owners also have to be aware of what to do if the dog does actually overheat. I have a separate freezer with at least 3 bags of ice - if my dog overheats, I can get her into a cool tub - the hot water heater is turned off at this time of year and I use the hot setting as my cold (and add ice gradually) to reduce her temperature gradually if needed). I've only ever had to do it once BUT THE OWNER HAS TO BE PREPARED AND VIGILENT for warning signs of overheating. If you are not the primary care giver, can't provide AC 24/7 especially this time of year and don't have an emergency plan in place, don't get a double coated / cold weather breed. I am sure you consider yourself to be a caring and educated animal lover, I give the information above to be helpful and to alert potential dog owners as to the requirements of these types of animals in this climate. Good luck. Huskies also have a rep for being vocal (hopefully your home is such that it won't disturb neighbours) and for being destructive if not kept active (read a moon scape for a garden). Good luck. <em>edited by marycatherine on 15/05/2011</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 14 May 2011 - 21:27
From what I understand it is because of the shabby treatment and poor administrative support. Grade 10 has been promised for at least 3 years and always come September it doesn't materialize.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 12 May 2011 - 20:15
Sorry Amy should have offered you the opportunity to talk a little more today. If puppy is "freaking out", wait until there is a lull to let her out of the crate. She will eventually associate being calm with being let out. It's not easy (hence my recommendation to lay in a supply of tissues for yourself - been there done that have the T-shirt). But it will work, it takes time. Waiting for a lull is a good start, add 30 seconds everytime you do so. When you shut her in the crate give her something to work with - I have used a kong and a "bone" (hard to explain, it is a real bone but you can put treats in it like a kong and it relieves teethng as well as giving puppy something to do for a while after you leave. Any jaw action also is a way of relieving excess energy, it has to be directed - need any tennis balls?
marycatherine
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Latest post on 11 May 2011 - 18:57
No problem, you have mail. Let me know what you want to do and we'll get those gates between puppy and possible mischief. Don't forget to delete your telephone # etc from here to keep the creepy crawlies from inundating you with unwanted attention!
marycatherine
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Latest post on 11 May 2011 - 16:24
I have 2 baby gates that I have used with my dog. You can borrow them until September (hopefully your pup won't be that long in learning;) Can you post an email or telephone # and I can contact you? Or, if you want to arrange a meeting somewhere tomorrow afternoonish - I live near Sports Round About and work near Landmark that would be fine too. I will not be available until about noon until about 3pm edited by marycatherine on 11/05/2011 <em>edited by marycatherine on 11/05/2011</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 05 May 2011 - 22:58
I would be interested to know the statistics of these Canadianese ladies at the consulate who have spent more than 10 consecutive years (at any time) in Canada. Let alone plan to live out their golden years in Canada. I work with a man who spent a grand total of 3 years in Canada, now has a Canadian passport (and considers himself to be a Canadian as a result) and has no intention of returning to Canada. Sorry, gets up my nose. Yes, I live abroad, Yes I spent 25 years contributing to the Canadian government coffers for better or worse from the time I started working until I came here.. And yes, when I leave here I'll be going back to Canadaand taking up where I left off. I get no benefits from the Canadian government while I live abroad nor do I expect any. Let any political upheaval take place here (heaven forbid) I have plans to get myself out. My Canadianese colleague will be at the front of the line at the Canadian Embassy waving his 3 year old passport around (while having his retirement home in his original country of origin- he has absolutely no intention of ever living in Canada ever again ) to get on the first plane/boat out. <em>edited by marycatherine on 05/05/2011</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 05 May 2011 - 18:20
The closest link to officialdom I can come up with is this http://www.emirates.com/uk/english/plan_book/essential_information/banned_substances_in_the_uae.aspx but I can't make the lik to the MoH's list of banned substances. On a practical level, carry your doctor's prescription with you. Do not be stupid. If asked, declare it. If told it will be confiscated, let it go. I doubt very much if you are polite, respectful, and non-confrontational (and are sober, white Westerners) you will even be questioned. But carry the prescriptions with you.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 05 May 2011 - 18:04
As for bussing - don't fly Qatar Air thru Doha - even in much poorer countries you get ramp service. Not on the "world's 5 star airline" even if you're flying business or first class - you're a bus passenger in Doha no matter how much wasta you have - they don't have ramps for embarkation or disembarkation - you get a bus. And the departure terminal is a disaster.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 05 May 2011 - 17:59
I choose Emirates for two basic reasons - excellent customer service (and no, I don't always get what I want), and good flying options. Are there other cheaper options available? Yes, but their customer service both s ucks ad b lows. I am willing to pay a premium to be treated with respect and get relatively good baggage allowances as well as good connections to my destinations of choice. It's a trade off for me. Others wish to get the best distance for their buck but not so much on the service or allowances side. To each his own. I choose Emirates.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 05 May 2011 - 17:41
I don't know about your employer Genie, but my employer would be required to pay me double time if I worked and did not take my vacation and they would be required to pay my ticket home whether I went there or not. Is it different for domestic help? Don't know.
 
 
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