northernstar | ExpatWoman.com
 

northernstar

northernstar
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Latest post on 05 July 2012 - 19:23
Not sure on cost but I know the expat site includes nurseries and star fish details are on there, if you have a definite date of arrival it may be worth registering your little one now, trust me Star fish is one of the best ones, they have 3 units plus 2 units tied to companies, if you register and one and it ends up not been the nearest to where you are living you can apply to transfer easily. Good luck with it all.
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 July 2012 - 15:51
Hi Frazzle, Doha is okay, its smaller than Dubai and quieter, but myself and 3 friends from Dubai who are all new think its very friendly and making friends is easy. As for nurseries, I work at Star Fish Lane 4, well worth calling for information, its Australian curriculum, a lovely place, I am a Brit and very impressed with it. they are still open doing a summer club so worth a call. Good luck am sure you will like Doha, just hope the malls get reopened soon!
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 05 July 2012 - 15:40
We went last night, got there for 7 to avoid the rush, people were still coming in after it started at 810 (10 mins late) We were centre silver, the stadium seating is the most uncomfortable I have ever sat on being only 161cm my feet dangled and getting there early meant a long sit, began to think the expensive seats would have been worth the money! We timed our leaving perfectly at 1040 we left during what turned out to be the last bit. so we got out easily. there are refreshments available by the arena are, but only juice, water and milk shakes, we felt they could have offered more choice. But for a first big event it was ok. The show itself was okay, DH had seen them in Dubai, he felt the angle of the seating was too great, being lucky enough to see lots of shows over the years we were a bit bored in parts, but parts were blooming fantastic, we had some little people in front of us who were poorly behaved but they left at the interval which was a relief, only for the fact I could rest my dangling legs on the seats in front! Overall though glad we went next time I would sit nearer the front o get a better view. It was a full house, I was told by the director of the venue there are going to limited tickets available on the door each night, ticket office will be open from 6, people were still buying at 7 when we got there!
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 02 July 2012 - 09:55
thank you xx
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 June 2012 - 21:44
Sadly not as good as Dubai but okay we like the W spice market.
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 June 2012 - 10:51
Airhostie that is shocking people can be so Stupid! I would have been rushing for the doors to get off the plane asap, stuff can be replaced but sadly lives can't. People obviously value their carry on luggage, lap tops, hand bags more than their own lives!
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 29 June 2012 - 10:48
The way its going Doha will be a mall free zone! lots of happy husbands no where for us to spend! But who cares they need to be safe and I do wonder how safe anywhere is here. I am sure the powers that be will sort it all but it takes time
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 June 2012 - 19:41
We have been here 7 weeks from Dubai too JLT to be exact! Doha is not Dubai but its okay, renting is easier than the UAE as you can lease as soon as you arrive with a letter from the company, we found a place in 3 days of arriving, the rent is paid monthly, so you pay the first month and deposit cash and write 11 cheques once the bank is open. The RP for DH took 3 weeks as did the bank, big niggle is wives can't be sponsored for 6 months according to some or 2 months pay according to others and if you overstay your 30 days its 200 riyals a day fine! you can extend or nip over to Dubai, thats the only annoying bit really. We shipped 21 boxes with one company but got big things damaged I would suggest using move one a couple of friends used them and had minimal damage, the biggest hassle was customs clearance for our stuff. We have bought a car, so everything is a bit easier than the UAE as you can do stuff without your RP. Good luck with it all, hope this helps!!!
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 June 2012 - 19:28
shakespear and co yum yum!!!!
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 June 2012 - 19:23
Just noticed your shopping comment you won't be tempted to spend much here, as the shops aren't that good, we have come from 3 years in Dubai now thats a different story!!! <em>edited by northernstar on 28/06/2012</em>
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 June 2012 - 19:22
You will be able to find a place for 8000 a month but it won't be The Pearl or West Bay, we live near Al Sadd, I looked at some for 8000 but found a super dooper one for 10000. Good luck with it all xxxx edited by northernstar on 28/06/2012 <em>edited by northernstar on 28/06/2012</em>
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 28 June 2012 - 19:06
Thanks, better restock the kindle, dvds and work!!!
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 27 June 2012 - 20:13
I did the last 3 Ramandans in Dubai and am facing my first here in Doha. Anything open in the day? In Dubai there were limited places for non muslims to get refreshments in the day as long as you respected the rules when out in public which was fine. Anyone still here or am I on my own....
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 June 2012 - 19:51
Also got a friend who's daughter is job hunting here for something in fashion PR any ideas?
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 24 June 2012 - 19:49
Spoke to FF Again who said mall management keep changing what they tell them so no news, they did hint to me the closed days will be added on the to end of our membership, we paid the full years fees!! so hoping we get the closed days back, because its a British company am sure they will compensate members, its just frustrating, but lives were lost so its a small inconvenience to make sure the mall is safe!! Lets hope it reopens soon
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 June 2012 - 21:53
I arranged to transport a friends car from Dubai to Doha and it arrived in one piece, try move one in Dubai a really good relocator, we shipped 21 boxes by sea, the only hold up was customs here, but we did get some stuff damaged, didn't use move one, but wish I had a friend in dubai her husband is a senior manager with them, I had already signed Relogulf because at the time move one went doing small shipments, they are now. A couple of friends here used them (for full contents) and were happy, we used Relogulf and have got damages to claim for, Relogulf packed us up and did a months free storage which is standard amongst relocaters. Good luck with it, Don't know if you could find a BA flight Abu Dhabi to Doha, but BA allow you to take up to 10 extra pieces of luggage for minimal charge.
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 June 2012 - 19:20
Fitness First told me today that the civil defence will inform the mall management tomorrow what is happening, fingers crossed it reopens soon we want to get back into the gym! But not holding my breath.
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 June 2012 - 22:31
Apparently the mall got shut so they could check the alarms, sprinklers and fire equipment, apparently it will be open tomorrow, we are members at Fitness First and they said the mall will reopen tomorrow. Fingers crossed
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 15 June 2012 - 18:18
You also need to produce your marriage certificate to connect electric, another tip is once you get married in the UK you will need your marriage certificate stamped in Milton Keynes and then stamping at the Qatar embassy in London, as well as all yours and partners qualifications, worth getting it done before you arrive as they need stamping for the visa process. You also need a police clearance form from the UK too. We are new to Qatar afar 3 years in the UAE, we got married to come to the gulf, what you need to remember is it is illegal to live together here and if you get caught its prison then deportation and you won't ever be allowed back, don't mean to worry you, the laws in the gulf are black and white, unlike the UK which is very grey, its a great place to live and bring up children you just live by the laws, booze is available with a liquor licence and you can get pork from the booze store too., start planning your wedding the gulf won't disappoint, good luck with it, the schools are good and so are the nurseries. As a foot note, a friend of mine in Dubai got locked in her bedroom the door jammed they had to call the fire service, the police came too but the first thing the authorities did when they arrived was to check passports and the marriage certificate! <em>edited by northernstar on 16/06/2012</em>
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 08 June 2012 - 12:04
Dent master under time square we have used them no problem.
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 22 May 2012 - 13:00
Great would be interested in knowing how much email me on slimmingworldjulieatbtinternetdotcom sorry for slow reply we have been moving x
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 May 2012 - 22:24
I lived and drove in Dubai for 3 years, but was told by friends who had been there years the driving is now much better with the completion of new roads, I drove all over town and to Abu Dhabi, seeing people over taking on the hard shoulder, riding your bumper, honking like mad and weaving at high speed. Yes I am new to town but at the moment we are living far out and am doing the rush hour drive to take DH work without any hassles, the weavers live here, but generally the manic bit is roundabouts, maybe so far I have been lucky, but I do find the driving more chilled here because of all the speed cameras and there are also alot less huge cars than in Dubai.
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 May 2012 - 22:09
Hi Desert Diva, will you be selling your nissan as we may be interested if your selling?
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 May 2012 - 11:33
I have just got here from Duabi and the driving is OK, in Dubai they honk their horns a lot sit on your bumper and flash you and if you leave the correct breaking distance someone will driver into it! In Doha generally its more relaxed, the roundabouts are fun as generally people don't seem to understand which lane to be in! As long as you take it steady you will be fine! We got a sat nav and its well worth means you concentrate on the driving rather than trying navigate and map read. But Doha is much smaller than Dubai and fairly easy to get around. There are loads of speed cameras too so everyone generally drives to the limit. Good luck with it.
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 May 2012 - 11:26
I was thinking of a day one but maybe an evening would would work also I guess it depends how much interest we get, we need to spread the word and see if anyone else would like to join us too. I will be living near La Cigal in Bin Mahmoud as of tomorrow! at the mo I am miles out, we used to take it in turns to host, the advantage we have here Doha isnt that big, Also a Doha Divas coffee group is a must, I know lots of people are leaving for the summer now, but I will be here over the summer so would be good to get going as soon as we can. If you are interested in Doha Diva Coffee group or a Doha Divas book club email me on slimmingworldjulieatbtinternetdotcom. So we can make plans. xx
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 19 May 2012 - 10:14
I am on it! Will look around and report back think Jones would be good, but could be rammed for a few weeks being new, I am moving into my new pad on Sunday, so will take a few days as I will be busy, But will sort it, watch this space......
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 May 2012 - 09:16
thanks Apple so that would be 2 of us :) I know a couple of girls here already who would be interested, I will research venue ideas do you have any? As a newbe to Doha, but Dubai trained as our first posting I know the benefits of a weekly causal coffee group to dip into, any suggestions on a day?
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 May 2012 - 16:12
It should be in your contract clearly stating what you need to do if you want to break the lease, for example we have just signed for a new place and it was made very clear that if we need to break the lease it 3 months notice, if DH loses his job 30 days notice as Qatar labor law, or as an alternative if we could relet it you can break the lease, I would check back with your letting agent and read the contract you signed carefully. Good luck with it all.
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 16 May 2012 - 16:07
We should start a coffee group somewhere in West Bay area, The Pearl has a coffee group, I live near Hamad Medical city, and would like a regular weekly coffee group, I tried the Ramada one yesterday but found it a bit over whelming as its so big, even though I enjoyed it, I don't really want a breakfast type meeting and something so formal, Really would like a 'expat' style one like in Dubai, which isn't as formal as the Tuesday one, I am new to Doha, and it seems to be light on regular coffee meet ups. unless there's lots out there I don't know about!. Would anyone else out there be interested in a West Bay area one on a weekly basis I know we are fast approaching summer and Ramadam but not everyone leaves. If there is interest I would be happy to coordinate.... I await your thoughts girls
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 04 May 2012 - 21:34
DH is working on Hamad medical centre so want to be near there 2 beds would be good villa or apartment fully furnished too!! Any chance on a 10k a month allowance?
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 26 April 2012 - 20:25
Thank you for that
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 18 March 2012 - 06:58
Think you will find it a struggle. Discovery gardens could be an option though
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 17 March 2012 - 13:11
Thanks for that . I have looked at that document. Already, also anther or his colleagues had been terminated too on same day but he has not been asked to take his leave. Think I need to call the ministry and ask them for clarification
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 March 2012 - 20:06
I need advise please, DH was told at the end of January his company may be terminating his employment. The letter stated maybe and was very uncommitted, they have now issued another letter yesterday saying he is out of work in 2 and a half weeks, we thought they had to give us 30 days official notice, they have referred back to the notice of intent letter and are using that can they do that? Any legal eagles out there who can help? TIA x ps he was on an unlimited contract and been here 3 and a half years.
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 03 March 2012 - 19:58
Any one know how long it takes to cancel an Abu Dhabi visa? DH s company reckons 2 weeks? Also will the company cancel mine too or does DH need to do it? TIA x
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 February 2012 - 17:05
Thanks, so cafes are open at 8! cool even on a Friday? in mirdiff mall.
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 February 2012 - 16:42
Thanks how much is it?
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 February 2012 - 16:18
I need help, we have a friend visiting Dubai for work and he can only see us Friday morning before he has to be at the airport for 12. Can anyone suggest somewhere good for breakfast, He is staying in Mirdiff we are in JLT. I could fire up my frying pan but would be nice to go somewhere nice, I thought about Mirdiff Mall, but I dont think the restaurants open until 10. Ideas please!!! TIA x
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 02 February 2012 - 08:11
Don't know whats happening yet! But we have no debt here so no worries really, but we were worried accounts could be frozen and we would not be able to access out account. Maybe I should draw all the cash out and keep it under my mattress ;) x
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 01 February 2012 - 06:46
thanks girls for all the help so far x
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 31 January 2012 - 17:19
DH has been made redundant, what is the redundancy payout under uae law? he is on a open contract with a uk company. hes been here 3 years and 5 months. <em>edited by northernstar on 31/01/2012</em>
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 31 January 2012 - 17:13
haha blond moment am the same x
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 31 January 2012 - 09:05
She wont starve, be bold turn it off show her your in charge, she may object for a while but you need to be brave and hold your nerve while she objects and she will! But if you stay strong she will soon learn and forgot all about the TV! Good luck!!
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 31 January 2012 - 09:00
Angelina he has work until 20 march ironically the bid they are working on is keeping them all busy sadly after that they have nothing hence he will be redundant! am sure he would prefer to be flat out on the sofa ;)
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 31 January 2012 - 08:33
anymore inspirational ideas?
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 January 2012 - 19:50
thanks girls passing it all on, ironically he is flat at at work at the moment so may take a few days to respond!
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 January 2012 - 17:13
Hello there, we are currently based in the UAE but DH was put on notice yesterday, everyone tells me Qatar is booming!! He is a design manager in the construction industry with 30 years experience in Qatar, South Africa, UAE and the UK. Does any of you lovely ladies have any contacts in Qatar, either companies or good recruitment agencies. TIA XX
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 January 2012 - 17:07
he is looking everywhere, but his biggest problem is that he has an HND not a degree, even though he has experience in South Africa, Qatar, here and UK about 30 years worth!
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 January 2012 - 16:42
Thanks Kelly x
northernstar
170
Posts
EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 30 January 2012 - 16:40
coffeemate is it worth sending you his cv anyway?
 
 
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