marycatherine | ExpatWoman.com
 

marycatherine

marycatherine
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Latest post on 05 June 2014 - 08:34
The option is there, but it is illegal for people to care for other people's children in their homes. They are not licensed, they are not inspected, and you take your chances on safety (in case of fire or just a fall). As for the salary, it depends on where you will be working. If for American University of Sharjah, you can expect a very good package. If for a "college" of some sort, it will be substantially less.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 30 May 2014 - 07:51
Your husband needs to speak with his HR Dept. about sponsoring his family. If he has residency and makes above 10,000 salary/month (not including any allowances) and he has 6 months of Qatari bank statements showing his salary, he should be able to sponsor his family. If he meets the criteria, you will have to either (a) wait until he has his RP and the 6 months of bank statements (which the HR dept may be able to get around, it depends on the employer)before you come and register your child for school or (b) enter on a tourist visa - which is OK if your passports are one of those that get visas on arrival - they are only good for 30 days, but I believe they can be extended for certain passports one time only for a further 30 days. If the extension is not possible, you exit and return and get a new visa. Your daughter will not be able to be registered for school under either option until you all have residency - The Supreme Education Council makes the rules. Although I have heard some schools may accept the child if proof can be shown that the RP in in process with MOI. Schools have long waiting lists here (some more than a year+). You should start making enquiries now. As I said before, your DH needs to get the straight info from the HR dept as procedures and policies can vary from organization to organization and may be dependent on what their level is in the organization.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 27 May 2014 - 12:11
NOW There have been several threads where posters have mentioned they've been on waiting lists for up to a year or longer. Can't help with recommendations, but check the previous questions asked (the search function should bring them up).
marycatherine
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Latest post on 22 May 2014 - 11:28
The fact ShopandShip charges on weight alone instead of volume (like Borderlinx does - which is a lot more expensive) makes it worth it to me to use their service.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 22 May 2014 - 08:55
Burda issues pattern "magazines" several times a year and are available (on a hit or miss basis) on newsstands in Doha. Like the down loaded ones, you have to trace them and cut them out.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 22 May 2014 - 08:53
It depends on what you and your family consider essential items. Will your children only eat one kind of cereal? Is your moisturizer hard to find even at home? Look around and decide what you would take with you if you knew it wasn't available here, then come and ask. Most of us know most of the stores inside and out that we search regularly. One big issue, if not immediately on your arrival, probably next year, is a school place. You need to start researching that NOW. IMHO groceries and clothing are expensive. I tend to shop for clothes at home or online, it's still cheaper to have them brought in than buy them in the shops.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 22 May 2014 - 08:48
I have had issues with the weight being incorrectly posted. When I went to pick up the package, I got them to weigh it then and there and got my money back, in cash, on the spot.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 17 May 2014 - 19:31
I use North American appliances with a transformer. It is extremely important you buy one with a wattage that is more than the appliance. Less likely to burn them out. However, as bubblewrap said, it is a short term (probably a year or two at most) solution. If your shipping is covered, I'd bring them. As and when they die, replace them with local voltage appliances.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 17 May 2014 - 19:29
A bigger issue may be if your RP is still in progress and you exit the country, you start the process again from scratch. You cannot exit the country while the RP is being processed unless you are prepared to go back to square 1 - fingerprints, x-rays, blood tests, etc. Hopefully, your nationality would allow you to get a visitor visa on arrival when you return.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 14 May 2014 - 07:15
The jobs you are qualified for are usually very low paying. As the PP said, it is illegal for you to live with your boyfriend and you should educate yourself on possible consequences, no matter how unlikely. Your boyfriend will not be able to sponsor you either. That means you will have to do visa runs (which are tiresome and cost money) if you cannot find work that will sponsor you. In your fields, often the jobs are done by people on their spouse's sponsorship (and they will be preferred over you as someone they would have to sponsor). Costs are rising in Dubai, specifically rents. Can you afford to pay a full year's rent up front? The days of dropping in and making pots of money in the GCC are long gone, especially if one is not particularly well qualified or does not have lots of experience. You do need to do a lot more research.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 03 May 2014 - 21:12
Eleanor Roosevelt " No one can take advantage of you without your permission. " When FIL calls say "wonderful! What time should we be there?"
marycatherine
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Latest post on 03 May 2014 - 09:43
How long were you visiting here? If you have never lived abroad before, Doha can be a very big surprise, in some ways pleasant, not so much in other ways. Only you can judge your ability to cope, but what would you do if, say, your husband was posted to New York or Singapore, would you feel the same? There are lots of resources and information about social groups etc. on these pages. Take a closer look, you might be surprised. As a mother with a young child, you may actually find it easier to meet people and make new friends because hopefully you'll be looking for opportunities for him/her to socialize with other children. What are your own interests? There are lots of continuing ed courses at Virginia Commonwealth University for painting, fashion, photography and other creative arts. Enjoy dancing? Get out with your DH to the salsa and tango evenings. Looking for other physically active people? There are several running groups, kayaking/paddling, etc. There are a couple of sailing clubs and diving clubs as well. All of which will enable you to meet new people. Good luck. Doha can be very tough if you don't have a positive outlook. It's like any other city in the world, it is what you and your family make of it. Take a second look, you might surprise yourself.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 26 April 2014 - 03:46
Your racial status is not at the top of your list of considerations. More important is your marital status. If you are not married, he cannot sponsor you and it could prove problematic in getting the benefits associated with a married hire. As an interracial couple, you will stand out and moreso if you are not married AND are in company accommodation where his colleagues will be well aware of your situation. Is it done? Sure. But the consequences can be severe. If you are planning to be married before you come, not an issue. If you are not, then educate yourself on the legal ramifications.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 24 April 2014 - 23:19
And how do you sponsor your son without your husband's "permission"? You need to educate yourself on your legal standing. If your husband decides that he wants custody of your son, this could get very ugly no matter his earnings.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 22 April 2014 - 20:16
Never had a problem with either books or DVDs in moving to 3 different countries including Doha. Could it be a problem, sure, anything is possible. No one I know ever had issues except for a friend with figure skating videos in the 90s in Oman (skimpy outfits must be investigated carefully!)
marycatherine
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Latest post on 21 April 2014 - 02:25
Flew business class on Qatar Air to North America last summer - mediocre at best. No comparison with Emirates. However, my connecting flight with Air Canada which has very old airplanes and poor layout (again, business class) surprised me with one of the best meals and service I have experienced at any time. My airline of choice is Emirates barring an extortionate fare. Their ground and air crew are both light years ahead of Qatar Air which is the airline of my place of residence. Oh, and when you buy your ticket with Emirates you are always given a copy of the terms and conditions before you complete the purchase - which I believe from previous postings they are honouring for those who purchased tickets before the changes. It is the buyer's responsibility to ensure they read and understand those terms and conditions. BTW Qatar Air had changes to their baggage allowances about 16 months ago, and despite passengers arriving with tickets with the previous terms and conditions (as they had purchased them before the change) they were hit with large excess baggage fees). edited by marycatherine on 21/04/2014 <em>edited by marycatherine on 21/04/2014</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 20 April 2014 - 20:37
I have a moulinex electric yogurt maker with individual glass jars. I bought it at C4 about 4 years ago. Very reasonable.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 17 April 2014 - 03:39
You're kidding, right? How can you be guaranteed legitimacy in any country anywhere from any man (or woman)? You're either incredibly naïve or a troll
marycatherine
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Latest post on 13 April 2014 - 09:04
Is this an item you could buy from amazon.co.uk (or similar)? Because then you could have it delivered to Doha and not worry about the volatage as the UK is the same as here. I use Aramex Shop and Ship which gives me a US, UK, Chinese, Turkish and someplace else street address for deliveries in the particular country and then it is shipped by air (calculated by weight not volume) to Doha for pick up. Usually 5 to 7 business days from ordering to delivery in Doha from the US.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 05 April 2014 - 17:41
In normal circumstances you would not be able to sponsor a son when he is older than 18. If he can be enrolled in an appropriate tertiary educational institutions he may be eligible for a student visa. You may be able to plead your case that he needs ongoing parental support but it would probably be an onerous process with no guarantees of a successful outcome. All of these would apply anywhere in the GCC.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 04 April 2014 - 10:26
I have always had OSN for nearly 14 years. Reception is sometimes poor 2x year in Spring and Fall when there are sun spots(?) but only briefly in the afternoons. Other than that, it's been very reliable.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 02 April 2014 - 16:14
In 10 years I don't know anyone who has ever gone to the American Hospital. To be honest, it always looks a little deserted. If you think the name reflects the nationality of the staff and an american education, I would suspect not. In Qatar, like much of the Gulf, I can call my organization the Uzbekistan Stationery Shop - with not relationship to that country at all in sight
marycatherine
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Latest post on 27 March 2014 - 06:21
I am getting it (not much on it so far) but I have the OSN connection. Can't help with DU
marycatherine
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Latest post on 22 March 2014 - 11:45
You can get them at Carrefour but be sure to get one with the correct wattage for the appliance or you will fry it.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 21 March 2014 - 13:30
ECCO might be worth a look. Sometimes the styles can be a bit Grandma-ish but usually quite good.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 21 March 2014 - 07:15
I would suggest you do a LOT more research on working in the EFL field in the GCC. The better jobs/employers require a related Master's degree in EFL + at least 3 years post grad experience (prior to the Master's won't cut it in most cases) preferably with Arab speakers. And those employers get a lot of qualified applications. Also keep in mind for the good international schools, they will have similar requirements and may even require a BEd. They too can afford to be picky. Are you aware you need to be sponsored to work in any country in the GCC? You don't just come here and pick up work, that's illegal. Could you work for a language school? Maybe, if you can get a work visa (and you need a sponsor), they won't give you one, and the pay is not very good, probably not enough to cover your housing, and you won't get any of the other benefits (tickets, medical, etc.). They usually hire trailing spouses on their DH's visa. Also be aware that nearly all good employers do not recognize online EFL certificates. <em>edited by marycatherine on 21/03/2014</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 18 March 2014 - 10:37
I'm getting myself psyched up for next Wednesday!
marycatherine
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Latest post on 18 March 2014 - 10:35
It may also be related to a condition called rosacea - that needs diagnosis by a doctor. In my own case, I had to have antibiotics for a month to clear up the acne completely and I use a prescription creme on a daily basis to keep it in check. I know you said you don't have insurance but you really should get a correct diagnosis from a good physician. I'm sure someone here will be able to recommend one. I got my diagnosis outside the country so I can't help you there.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 13 March 2014 - 07:53
This is why I bring my own when I get a manicure/pedicure. Then I know exactly what I'm getting.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 10 March 2014 - 21:48
Unfortunately, there are laws in place in Qatar and elsewhere in the GCC. Enforcement and accountability equally amongst offenders are what are lacking. Qatar doesn't enforce their own traffic laws, they don't hold sponsors responsible for bad recruiting practices (which can be done if the will is there or can be "encouraged" by law enforcement). Education is a big part of getting people to change. Enforcement is the other half of the equation.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 09 March 2014 - 21:30
I have seen it at Geant Hyatt Plaza but no idea if it is organic. <em>edited by marycatherine on 09/03/2014</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 06 March 2014 - 17:44
Is your passport eligible for a visa on arrival? If so, what do you plan to tell the nice people at immigration if they ask the purpose of your visit? Most tourist visas are good for only 30 days and it is extremely unlikely a conversion to a work visa could be accomplished even if you were offered a job the first day. There are medical checks, attestation of documents, maybe a security certificate from your home country and of course fingerprinting. where will you stay? Doha is not cheap. Do you have any job leads? Also, you may get a less than desirable offer if they smell hunger or desperation.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 27 February 2014 - 18:30
A link to Doha News www.dohanews.co (not com). The MOI says it was a gas cylinder on top of a popular restaurant located near the petrol station. Current update is 12 dead 30 seriously wounded. <em>edited by marycatherine on 27/02/2014</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 15 February 2014 - 07:35
[email protected] is one step closer. Maybe ask for a phone call back to follow up on an email message?
marycatherine
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Latest post on 11 February 2014 - 19:11
As we don't know your taste, far better to list what you cannot live without and then you will get better advice.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 10 February 2014 - 11:36
If you have explained your reasons and communicated your wishes on parenting, it is now up to your DH to sit down with HIS mother and explain that DS is your DS and you and your DH make the rules about his care and upbringing.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 05 February 2014 - 22:35
As an FYI Melj, QDC is almost certainly aware you "snuck" in. They do sometimes overlook one visit after your card has expired or they may even be well aware that you do have valid residency despite holding an expired card. In any event enjoy your successful visit but don't entertain the idea that one can put one over on the authorities especially in a sensitive area like alcohol.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 31 January 2014 - 17:47
Here's an answer for these socially inept idjits. "Why do you think you are in a position to ask me that?" Then turn away and decline to engage. They are idjits and not worthy of any further conversation. <em>edited by marycatherine on 31/01/2014</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 25 January 2014 - 20:18
And of course higher shipping and related costs as well so lower volumes sold and higher storage costs have no bearing either. Sorry, can't jump on the conspiracy wagon just yet. <em>edited by marycatherine on 25/01/2014</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 25 January 2014 - 16:49
Isn't Al Futtaim the owner operator of Festival City and they are the sole GCC partner for IKEA too? So greedy landlords wouldn't be the answer to the increased prices if this is the case.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 25 January 2014 - 15:50
While the Netherlands are famous for tulips I was surprised to learn they originated in the Middle East. If you like I can forward you some info on the cooking class I took as well as the name of a really good guide/tour company who cater to single or small groups - I used them and recommended them to a friend and their daughter who also liked the service.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 24 January 2014 - 12:02
Sorry but terminate her now and send her home ASAP. You are being played and the stress and aggravation she is causing you is not worth it. Once she is gone you will be able to focus better on your options. The way she is behaving does not deserve your kindness to let her find other work in UAE. It is very harsh advice I know but you need to concentrate on yourself and your family. Move on. If you need household help until you leave, get an agency maid.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 24 January 2014 - 07:53
Not to miss:Topkapi (go early), cruise on the Bosphorus, Grand Bazaar, Aya Sophia, Basilica cisterns, Blue Mosque (take a head scarf), below/behind the Blue Mosque are some interesting shops including one that sells the most luxurious bath towels. Just across the bridge from you is the spice souk. Food - fish restaurants on the Bosphorus and just at the bottom of the Hill from the Grand Bazaar. I usually have lunch at hole in the wall type restaurants that cater to locals employed in the area. If you have time, look for a cooking class. You will be there for tulip season, tulips everywhere you look. Magnolia and other flowering trees. Beautiful, especially in contrast with Doha
marycatherine
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Latest post on 21 January 2014 - 05:29
The bigger issue on schooling is finding a school that has places for your children. The better schools always have waiting lists although random grades might have a place. If you do a search here you will get a better idea of the school situation
marycatherine
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Latest post on 19 January 2014 - 16:18
There are a couple of shops off D-ring at the exit after Lulu going towards Rayyan. It's the big intersection going down towards that underpass. Unfortunately the shops are across from where you come down in the strip mall. HTH
marycatherine
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Latest post on 18 January 2014 - 17:17
Stevia is a natural sweetener from a South American plant if the OP was worried about chemical sweeteners. A quick google will give you lots of info.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 17 January 2014 - 20:56
Make your own juice. Bring an equivalent amount of frozen/fresh cranberries and water to a simmer for 20 minutes. I.E. 3 cups berries 3 cups water. The berries look like they're exploding. Drain using a paper coffee filter. Take the juice and add your sweetener to taste. I use a lemon flavored stevia from Spinners. Stevia is a natural sweetener from the Stevia plant. The original recipe I had called for lemon juice and sugar. This way I control the sweetness and the sweetener.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 12 January 2014 - 19:38
Search www.dohanews.co dragon mart has not opened because of failure to meet code. Unfortunately other malls, closed after the Villagio fire still fail to meet code but have been reopened and are operating welcoming unsuspecting patrons and their children each day. <em>edited by marycatherine on 12/01/2014</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 08 January 2014 - 06:10
They are most likely a type of cormorants. I often see flocks at sunrise/sunset this time of year
marycatherine
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Latest post on 07 January 2014 - 18:58
I am of the opinion that in any situation like this there are two sides and in most cases the truth is somewhere in the middle. I am not saying the OP's child is not telling the truth as s/he knows it but aren't we all guilty (for lack of a better word) of putting ourselves in a better light in situations than we may merit? The OP should certainly meet with the teacher and go from there based on the information she gets. However, being menopausal and a teacher (not K-12 but some of my students act like they are about 13) I can tell you there are lots of students and parents who also try to bully and intimidate teachers - Oh, I try do not "rant" in the classroom as my students need a role model on how to deal with normal student push back.
 
 
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