marycatherine | ExpatWoman.com
 

marycatherine

marycatherine
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Latest post on 01 January 2014 - 21:13
If the debt has been filed as an official complaint aka court case / police report - the debtor will stay in Qatar until and unless the court releases them.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 27 December 2013 - 16:03
At home catered affair?
marycatherine
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Latest post on 27 December 2013 - 15:28
WestBay is probably the priciest place for accommodation. Without knowing where your dh will be working it is difficult to advise. Traffic here is dire and about to descend back into horrific near Westbay/corniche again for the next 4 months during prime traffic hours (0630 to at least 1500 hrs) with announcement of lane closures. Most places here are created fully furnished with mostly extreme restrictions on what you can and cannot do within "your" home. I would recommend if you can find an unfurnished place, take it. Furnishishings here are generally poor quality and even poorer in comfort and durability and they look bad too. I think you might find a good sized 2 bedroom in an older neighborhood that would have a more flexible landlord but it would take some searching. You would need to be on the ground to do so. kennels are available but book early (like 4 or 6 months in advance) to secure a dpot
marycatherine
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Latest post on 25 December 2013 - 13:58
I asked at a pharmacy today why they don't carry the big bags of Epsom salts for bathing and was informed that maybe Hamad Hospital has them. He couldn't tell me why they aren't more widely available though. I find it puzzling as they are widely used as a foot soak and bath additive for people with eczema etc. in North America. Goodness knows there's nearly half an aisle of them at a popular drug store in my home country.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 25 December 2013 - 13:55
So Cushion, we don't have to worry so it is OK to drink and drive then? It's scaremongering? Let us know where you and your friends will be celebrating this festive season so the rest of us can give you a wide berth. The two people I know personally were both Brits (one had only had 1 beer 3 hours previous to his unrelated accident - a tire blew and his car rolled, he woke up handcuffed to his hospital bed before he was transferred to jail). Hope our luck holds with idjits who think it is an urban myth they will be arrested jailed and deported. Want to hear my colleague's problems with being arrested for adultery? He was also a Brit.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 25 December 2013 - 06:14
I've seen this asked before but never seen a positive reply. There are very small containers in pharmacies but I want them for bath use not oral use. or bulk dead sea salts without any add ins?
marycatherine
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Latest post on 24 December 2013 - 19:39
Sorry Sakhifa, I know two people directly who have been convicted, jailed and deported. They were actually involved in single car accidents (with only injuries to themselves) so maybe that makes a "difference"?????? Sorry Take the keys, or report them, otherwise you are just as guilty if you knowingly let them get behind the wheel.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 24 December 2013 - 18:52
Walls are concrete blocks filled with sand. Plenty stable , difficult to drill. Most landlords do not want you drilling. However, if you clean it up and paint before you leave they have nothing to complain about. Don't know about the bag, although I'm sure it is available. Try Go Sport, Sun and Sand Sport websites to make enquiries. Everything else is available.
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Latest post on 24 December 2013 - 18:49
Moving to and enjoying a new location is what YOU make of it. There are options here to enjoy, you have to search them out or make them for yourself. This is not Dubai and will never be Dubai for many years. Most people who take work here are here for the money, not for the experience. That said, it can be pleasant, if quiet as you won't have the myriad of options available to you as you find in UAE. For example, there are no doggy day cares and generally you give others a wide berth when out with your dog to avoid any problems or confrontations (yes there are other dog owners and you can get together for play times) BE SURE TO PICK UP after your dog. I'm sure you do, many people here do not or will not especially at the beaches - because it "goes away". Just like the fully loaded diapers and KFC bags of trash brought to enjoy by the sea. From the sounds of your lifestyle, you should be OK. The traffic here is dire compared with Dubai (and I lived in Dubai during the metro construction and just got back from a visit). It is only going to get worse. Find out where your hubby will be working for sure, then make enquiries about accommodation and schools. C-ring is scheduled for major reconstruction over the next 2 years. It is a major thoroughfare so this will cause havoc on a major scale. There is a long term strategy but too many influential fingers in many different pies always changing the parameters of any given project which leads to inevitable delays.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 24 December 2013 - 18:40
If we are real friends, take their keys. If they refuse to turn them over, tell them you will dob them in and do it. They are a danger to themselves, their passengers and everyone else's loved ones on the road. They deserve no sympathy - I do this with my friends, and have lost a few "friends" as a result. No great loss. But someone else's family or family member is probably unknowingly alive as a result. I do this year round here and in my home country. Before we get all the but but buts. There is no but - it is criminally irresponsible to drive after having even one here especially when everyone knows the consequences.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 18 December 2013 - 12:52
It will really depend on where you are living whether you have some access to some green space. If you are in a villa with a garden, you're sorted. If you're in an apartment, there may be access to grass maintained along the roadway by the municipality. Importantly, you will need to ensure up front your accommodation allows pets. Some don't. My dog got along fine, she loved grass too but when needs must, sand is the answer. It is important to be aware that dogs are not considered pets per se in Islam. They are generally accepted if they serve a "purpose", guarding sheep, etc. But you will encounter a lot of people who view them with terror (mostly because they are viewed as carriers of disease/rabies or potential attackers). I just give everyone a wide berth. My dog is friendly and likes people but people aren't always friendly or like dogs. I don't force the issue. Also be aware that every now and again, some one with an ax to grind will put down food laced with strychnine (sp?)near where people regularly exercise their pets. I choose lonely places with few if any other dogs visiting on a regular basis. Better safe than sorry. This happens in other places in the GCC - although sometimes the poison is for rats/vermin and not meant for the dogs and cats that might also be poisoned. I don't mean to alarm you, but you should be aware of the possibilities. My dog has survived 10 years here. <em>edited by marycatherine on 18/12/2013</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 10 December 2013 - 13:58
JRR Tolkien did this for his children and a book was published (my mother has a copy) and it is delightful. Your idea is great too. Good luck! One of my best Christmas stories is my father, calling my sister's home, got my 4 or 5 year old nephew on the other end and asked spontaneously. "Hello this is Santa how are you?" "Hello Santa I've been expecting your call." My sister had previously explained to her son that they were too late to send a letter but Santa did telephone calls too - intending to ask a friend to fill in. However, our Dad called first and stepped in without any pre-knowledge. My nephew was thrilled as was my Dad. Yes Virginia, there is a Santa Claus - I believe in Santa
marycatherine
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Latest post on 06 December 2013 - 15:21
Doha is not Dubai. Visiting is not the same as living here. Doha can be more "difficult" than Dubai especially for those new to expat living Doha is more expensive than Dubai. Any employment requires sponsorship although trailing female spouses have a little more latitude. TEFL will get you a dead end job nearly everywhere in the Gulf. Get a CELTA it will serve you better. If you are looking at the GCC as a place to improve your quality of living and ability to save you had both better have the experience and qualifications to get the jobs that will allow you to do so. From your posts you need to do a lot more research before making a move
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Latest post on 05 December 2013 - 08:33
In our stockings we get, an apple and an orange + a favourite snack (roasted cashews for example)+ a magazine (usually something trashy - like a celeb gossip/ufo sightings type thing) + a pair of socks or similar inexpensive item. For children, small toys, maybe a deck of cards, etc. We always have lobster sandwiches on Christmas Eve.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 05 December 2013 - 05:52
It is illegal for her to work for anyone but her sponsor. While I have never known a sponsor here to be fined the law is on the books. The OP would have no recourse if she employed someone illegally and they stole from her. JLS74 - I can only suggest you keep trying the agencies as you don't need/want to sponsor a FT maid
marycatherine
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Latest post on 02 December 2013 - 06:34
I agree cold medicine here are pretty useless. However, you should be aware that some North American otc meds contain substances that are controlled here. Codeine is considered a narcotic for example. Bringing in one or two packages might be let go by authorities but "tons" may attract more than an enquiry. Expatmum experience has been all good. That doesn't mean everyone's will be. You hit the wrong inspector on the wrong day? Who can say the outcome. I've seen one couple pulled over for trying to bring in pork. Would you probably be okay? Yeah. But you should inform yourself of possible consequences no matter their probability to make informed choices.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 27 November 2013 - 10:56
There's also concern about the damage open net farming does to the environment. Here's a [url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/nova-scotia-moves-its-first-batch-of-land-raised-salmon-1.1332529'>link[/url'> to a short news item from Canada that gives an idea of some of the issues and how they are being overcome. If they can be grown organically inland then it would remove the issues with medication/hormone use as well
marycatherine
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Latest post on 22 November 2013 - 16:18
You can get a decent contract with good experience and qualifications. It take time and persistence. However all companies here will not duplicate benefits and payments. One couple I am aware of do not take into account employers can and will claw back duplicate payments ( housing, tickets etc). They are taking the view that the female is getting the benefits same as her hubby so that IsOK. They are in for a rude and expensive awakening. Hubby in my case is taking the stance of I am the man so this rule will not apply. He is also being careful not to bring his circumstances to the attention of his employer. <em>edited by marycatherine on 22/11/2013</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 18 November 2013 - 21:29
Never been an issue in 5 moves over 12 years. I have always had OSN dishes left behind and landlord has never even noticed to my knowledge let alone quibbled <em>edited by marycatherine on 18/11/2013</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 18 November 2013 - 09:36
Unless the spouse is being considered for THE senior position in an organization, I very much doubt it. I've never met anyone who was brought in for a visit until after the offer of employment had been made - and then only for the very very top level positions in an organization
marycatherine
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Latest post on 17 November 2013 - 20:45
Al Awadi has moved to Al Sadd. They are across the street from Food Palace which is 2 streets behind Royal Plaza
marycatherine
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Latest post on 15 November 2013 - 19:46
Is the kit sealed? I ask for hygienic reasons.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 15 November 2013 - 19:44
I had an Irish couple who wanted nearly everything, would pick up and pay for the lot on a certain date. They never showed or called. I sold everything the next day to someone else for cash the next day and the first couple griped. I did not feel badly at all.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 14 November 2013 - 16:44
Save a life. Adopt one from one of the animal rescue groups. There are fees to cover vaccination, spaying/neutering costs usually but you would be paying those anyways as a responsible pet owner. Please do not buy one. Most for profit shops and breeders here care only about $$$$ not about the animal or you. edited by marycatherine on 14/11/2013 <em>edited by marycatherine on 14/11/2013</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 12 November 2013 - 16:56
A middle ground has to be found. Want a month to month lease with monthly payments?? The landlord can charge a higher rent because the lessee can give a calendar month's notice to quit. On the flip side the lessor also has the right to give tenants a calendar month notice to quit no matter the reason. Want a yearly lease with monthly payments? Usually lower rents to encourage good tenants to stay. However, lessor and lessee have the right to give 3 calendar months notice prior to the end of the lease to quit to leave without penalty. This is how it works in my home country with no RERA to appeal to no matter what happens in the market. I would be interested to know how it works in the UK or OZ or SA? <em>edited by marycatherine on 12/11/2013</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 07 November 2013 - 16:41
Why are you bothering yourself about this? You have your own family and new baby to care about, look after and look forward to. Tell big brother that you too value your relationships and his with his niece but you and your DH have a family to nurture and grow. Such is the cycle of life. Your brother needs to grow up as he sounds very immature. I have found it to be a good strategy to say my piece and then stop. I have no need to explain or justify my decisions concerning myself or my family. I have 5 brothers and sisters and in way would I allow them to manipulate me or MY family into doing something we did not care to do. I wouldn't invite him either - you and your family need to take it easy before new baby arrives. <em>edited by marycatherine on 07/11/2013</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 06 November 2013 - 16:00
I have a considerable amount to lose and a family wedding next summer as motivation. Would anyone be interested in meeting at a local park on Friday or Saturday morning(s) for some mutual motivating etc.? I live in Al Sadd and the park is fairly central and close to the expressway for access. As an FYI there are usually a few labourers who visit the park as well as a chance to relax on Fridays particularly (I imagine they get chased away from other busier parks) but there are also 4 or 5 security guards so while I don't enjoy the stares, I don't feel unsafe. There are also toilet facilities but I haven't needed to use them so can't comment on cleanliness. I suggest the morning so that I can get it done and out of the way for the rest of the day. The earlier the better suits me best as well. Fewer people are there (not that it's crowded unless one of the local football teams is practicing) If you want directions and the times I usually go I can be reached at marycatherineqatar at gmail dot com
marycatherine
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Latest post on 02 November 2013 - 17:23
How long is a piece of string? It would be better for you to determine what you can't live without and ask about specific items. Unfortunately, we don't know you or your tastes (yet) so it is almost impossible to advise.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 30 October 2013 - 20:36
The fine in Dubai for doing this is/was AED10,000.00. The same rules apply there too. If you live in certain areas of Dubai, the police DO go looking.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 30 October 2013 - 15:33
I believe the going rate is QAR30 per hour plus transport costs if needed. You supply the cleaning supplies That said. If you are not sponsoring this person and she is not being hired directly from an agency what you are doing is illegal. Do lots of people do it? Yes. There are fines if you are caught but I haven't heard of anyone I know being caught/fined. However, be very aware that if the maid steals from you, you will have no legal recourse because what you are contemplating is illegal too. The police won't search you out but if you report a theft, then you'll have questions asked of you too.
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Latest post on 12 October 2013 - 20:39
But do the ROP and Omani authorities view it the same way if an accident occurs in Oman? How do Emirati insurers view this? I don't see the relationship between UAE government past practices and what the insurance company actually does especially if the accident occurs outside the UAE. <em>edited by marycatherine on 12/10/2013</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 12 October 2013 - 19:08
Assuming you have full insurance cover, file a claim with your insurance company.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 12 October 2013 - 19:07
Check your insurance conditions. Many policies include a clause that if your car is not registered your insurance is invalid.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 21 September 2013 - 19:44
Cost of adoption vs undying love and acceptance, 24/7 companionship and (if you're lucky) foot warmer and non battery operated massage (heated) . = Priceless
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Latest post on 19 September 2013 - 18:36
If you are not prepared to take on full time care the same advice but change the where location you feed it every time. Sorry SD just assumed it hadn't been neutered from a subsequent post. The poor thing has to learn to fend for itself.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 19 September 2013 - 17:48
1. Feed at different times of day. 2. Feed near the bins where they regularly forage. 3. Do not feed every day only 3 or 4 times per week max 4. As another poster said get it neutered ASAP for its own health and to prevent mor kittens 5. In this way the cat can maintain its place in the bin cat pecking order and not become dependent on you. It is unkind to regularly feed bin cats - doing so on a random/sporadic basis is okay If you will also neuter them. Some vets give a discount for feral cats.
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Latest post on 16 September 2013 - 12:08
Carrefour in Doha carries live North American lobster on a regular basis. Perhaps you could inquire as to whether any C4 in Dubai carries them?
marycatherine
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Latest post on 15 September 2013 - 16:20
I don't know about UK licenses but my home country one has the class of vehicle I am licensed for and any restrictions (like glasses) noted. I am not saying this is intuitive that one [i'>should [/i'> know but were they unwilling to copy your UK license? If so it's a real bummer. Good luck on the second attempt:cool: <em>edited by marycatherine on 15/09/2013</em>
marycatherine
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Latest post on 15 September 2013 - 15:40
A good source of information for DLs and other things is here on this site under the looking for answers box to the right of this screen. You are only allowed to drive with your home country license for 7 days. If you have an accident after that time it will probably invalidate the car insurance.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 14 September 2013 - 16:22
You may need to spray 2 or 3 times over a 60 day period because of the tickets lifecycle
marycatherine
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Latest post on 04 September 2013 - 09:22
You can buy stamps at the main post office on the Corniche. The only other place I know of is at a smaller post office in Mansoura at the Al Meera Food store outlet. I imagine you would be able to buy them at gift shops in the bigger hotels and I think a friend bought some while buying post cards in Souq Waqif. How long it will take for a letter to arrive at its destination can be iffy.
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Latest post on 04 September 2013 - 09:18
No booze, the Omanis do check (they look in your trunk/back of vehicle). You have to exit UAE getting your passport stamped at Hatta then stop at the Omani border facility to get your visa. You need to show proof of car insurance for Oman, it can be purchased at the border crossing if necessary. I generally go through the Hatta Fort crossing - it's straight up from Dubai, cross the border go straight to the first R/A at Shinas, turn right and go straight until you get to Muscat. Be sure to keep any little pieces of paper they give you at the Omani check point as they will ask for it when you return to UAE. <em>edited by marycatherine on 04/09/2013</em>
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Latest post on 02 September 2013 - 13:39
I expect you would have to go first to the police station and file a report - they may even want a police report from the country where it was stolen? Hopefully someone else will be able to be more certain - or else you may have to find out on your own.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 02 September 2013 - 13:38
AED 63K/year for a large (clean and decently maintained) 2 bed apartment is not even close to what you need for something in Doha. There are parks etc in Doha proper but very few public beaches (only one that I know of on the Pearl) all other beaches are private for the hotels which you can access for a price. Are there things to do? Yes - but not nearly the variety and price ranges available in Dubai simply because of the size of the population. I would only come if my employer was contributing all or nearly all for my accomodation and for my daughter's future education. Both accomodation and education costs are rising steadily.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 24 August 2013 - 15:21
Does the Hair Corridor have a shop here in Qatar?
marycatherine
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Latest post on 23 August 2013 - 20:42
Try command hooks - they are adhesive and come in a variety of sizes for attaching a wire/string to the sides of the windows. They are also removable. Available in Family Food stores in the hardware/kitchen gadget sections.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 23 August 2013 - 20:39
In my country unlimited personal use of a company provided car is a taxable benefit and must be declared on income tax returns. In fact, employers are required to report such to the government and provide the proper forms for the employee to use at tax time. In the GCC, I have been allowed to use company cars but the mileage is tracked and if I want to be reimbursed for petrol used on company travel I need to provide receipts. The car is also signed in and out. Sounds like the OP was really lucky with her company car in the past. Perhaps she should do as a recent poster stated - ask for a transportation allowance in lieu of an actual vehicle.
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Latest post on 21 August 2013 - 23:18
I shipped my household goods by sea and the freight forwarded delivered the container to my home once it cleared customs. No extra charges for household goods. I had other goods sent by air cargo and there were a few fees at the airport - about QAR150 if I recall correctly nothing major.
marycatherine
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Latest post on 21 August 2013 - 23:16
YonKa products
marycatherine
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Latest post on 21 August 2013 - 23:14
In my last villa the landlord paid for the landscaping (very basic, nothing fancy) and he paid the gardener too. I paid for the water (which can get very expensive if your gardener is enthusiastic.
 
 
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