RachelA | ExpatWoman.com
 

RachelA

RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 10 April 2012 - 22:10
I am as sure as I can be that they are genuine. First thing I did when I initialized them was to register them with Apple (via iTunes). Both were recognized right away, based on serial number and model. I had told the dealer than if there was any problem getting them set up I'd bring them straight back - and he had no problem with that at all. These are not our first iPhones, and between the registration and knowing how they feel and function, I'm pretty confident. Normally I'd also rather pay the price of buying from the authorized dealer, but I really wanted facetime and this is not an option with the authorized dealers in UAE or Qatar (where I'm based) unless you buy from the telecom company and use it with their sim. So I took my chance. The person who recommended the shop to me told me that the iPad she had purchased was repaired by Apple under their warranty, so that also gave me a bit more assurance.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 10 April 2012 - 21:55
I bought 2 iPhones in Dubai last week - factory unlocked, WITH facetime. The prices were the same as the unlocked ones being sold by apple in the US - pre-tax. So it actually cost a bit less than buying them in the US. This was from the kiosk in front of C4 at MOE (called Micro) on the recommendation of someone here on EW. For iPad 2 you should compare prices carefully, since the price has definitely gone down in the US and UK.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 09 April 2012 - 21:49
Maybe it's me - but what's the difference between no airconditioning and there is not airconditioning?
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 09 April 2012 - 21:47
Messeilah. And the new one next to it - Rayyan Village?
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 09 April 2012 - 21:28
No airconditioning? Of course there is! If you go to any of the big hotels and even most of the smaller ones, they will of course have AC. The last few times we went to Sharm we rented a chalet in a compound called Delta Sharm - its a resort community. There are mangement offies that rent out apartments and houses on behalf of the owners. There are loads of pools, a shuttle to the beach, and also shops and restaurants. If you're only going for a week one of the beach resort hotels might be easier - there are many. If you're thinking about one of the Hiltons, I'd suggest Hilton Fairuz - it's right on the beach. Hilton Dreams is closeby, but across the main road from Fairuz so not directly on the beach. Personally I'd not want to stay at Hilton Waterfalls - its up on the cliff which is beautiful but not as much action as the main part of town. I believe all of the Hiltons have Kids Clubs to keep the little ones entertained. Shop around for good deals - the low tourism to Egypt at the moment is leading to some incredible vacation deals!
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 09 April 2012 - 21:09
This is totally off subject, but NewbieDoha I'm in Al Areen also, and I know of at least one other EW who is here as well. We should all meet up!
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 09 April 2012 - 20:53
I have a friend who moved from Doha to Bahrain a couple of years ago. I'm sure she'd be happy to share her thoughts. She's traveling at teh moment, but I'll send her the link to this thread and hopefully she'll be able to respond early next week. Her husband was also working in Khobar most of the time they were in Bahrain.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 08 April 2012 - 15:51
I think the Dana Club might have some pool hours that are just for women/kids. It's not on the beach, but they have nice pool facilities.usually guests can come if (for a fee) if accompanying a member, but they might make an exception- it would be worth contacting them and asking. Where are you staying when you are here?
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 07 April 2012 - 23:21
Isn't Aziziyah past the wholesale market area on Salwa? That is not at all near Dhow r/a, which is at the complete other end of Salwa (after it turns into Musherib) almost at souq waqif.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 07 April 2012 - 12:30
Places I've shopped using shop and ship for delivery: Amazon (US and UK) Zappos Gap Old Navy Nordstroms Zappos
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 06 April 2012 - 22:00
Do you already have a place for him secured for September? And if so, have they confirmed that they do not have a space for the remainder of the current school year? When we arrived in Qatar (albeit 7 years ago) we came in April, and my son was 8 years old at the time. He started school here as soon as we arrived, and stayed at that same school until he completed primary - so for the remainder of that year and the following 2 years. Starting in April (term 3 - it was a British school) wasn't the easiest thing, but then by the time school started again after the summer he already knew the kids and wasn't the newbie any more, so it was much easier. Spaces come available at all points during the school year since families leave at any time. I've actually heard that for some of the more popular schools it is easier to get a spot mid-year than in September. Definitely worth asking.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 05 April 2012 - 16:59
SUccess! Bookworm has it in stock. Thanks again GoodMorning - the Time Out link did the trick. I've got one very happy DS...
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 05 April 2012 - 12:24
Serious and huge THANKS GM!!!:)
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 05 April 2012 - 06:25
Thank you!
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 04 April 2012 - 20:40
Lots of shoppers and handbag lovers on this forum!! It would help if we had an idea of how much you are looking to spend, if you are thinking designer, etc. :cool:
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 04 April 2012 - 20:38
I also have a friend who had knee surgery at Aspetar, and it is the only place I would consider if I needed orthopedic surgery. Their physical therapists are fabulous as well. It does take a while to get in, but well worth it. My advice would be to go in person and set up the appointment with the receptionist rather than doing it on the phone. At least until you have an active file there. The big drawback of Aspetar (other than the long waits) is that they do not take any insurance. You have to pay up and then claim it back from your insurance assuming the treatment is covered. We've had services there (consultations and physio) while covered by AXA and QIC (at different times) and never had a problem being reimbursed.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 04 April 2012 - 20:34
Yup, for Commercial its 10K per day from current or savings account.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 03 April 2012 - 00:08
I always get SD from iTunes and the quality is great. HD might be better, but I'm more than happy with the quality of SD. On the new iPad it would probably make more of a difference.. Safe travels!!
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 01 April 2012 - 11:06
Any hotel business center. I've sent faxes from the Marriott a few times.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 01 April 2012 - 09:49
Thanks GoodMorning and realist! I was at MOE last night and actually spoke to the guy at that stall! Their prices were as close to those of the US apple store as I've seen, and he did confirm that the phones have FaceTime. I asked around at a few othe shops and stalls - some were more $$, others just had a dodgy feel, so I was actually planning on going back to the stall in front of C4 to buy. Now I just have to decide Iif were buying 1 or 2...:\:
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 31 March 2012 - 11:30
Thanks. I can always wait until I get back to Qatar, but figured I'd be more likely to find one with FaceTime here. I'm okay with an import, but don't want to go the hacking route.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 31 March 2012 - 09:03
Bumping for the morning ladies...
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 30 March 2012 - 08:12
When I lived in SF, I never tired of the clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl at fisherman's wharf. I know it's really touristy - but still so delicious!
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 29 March 2012 - 21:17
Still QR 1/liter for the highest grade.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 29 March 2012 - 21:03
I don't think you'll find spaces at ASD for those grades - unless the job in question is for one of the companies that has a direct arrangement with the school (in which case your fees would be 100% covered). ACS is expanding its intake for next year so more likely, but still filling fast.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 29 March 2012 - 09:48
There are really only 2 American schools in Doha - ASD and ACS. Fees are on their sites, and vary by grade, but they are high, so check them out and factor this in to your negotiations. Spaces are not easy to secure - especially if you are looking for September. Benefits tend to vary widely too. Some get school, housing and international medical. Some get none of these, and some a mix. The key is to be realistic about these expenses and make sure the salary can cover them or the allowances are adequate, whichever the case. Housing for a furnished 3 bed can is likely to range from QR 14-20,000/month, with the opportunity to go much much higher if you want. I don't think we live particularly extravagantly, and for a family of 3 plus maid our expenses are quite a bit higher..we don't have a gardener (live in an apartment) and petrol form1 car seems on par, but for the rest I'd say we spend close to double those figures.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 28 March 2012 - 17:30
I've done shellac mani and pedi there - it was fine. Nail services are actually a branch of Nails. I spoke to the Lebanese (I think) guy who does hair, and he seems to be very knowledgable and easy going, but I can't really comment on his skills.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 27 March 2012 - 21:58
We went there a few months ago when we were selling our car, just to see what they were about. They were very honest that we would likely get a higher price selling it on our own (which we did) but that if we were, for example, in a rush to sell, they were a good alternative. I agree that they were very professional, very up-front and I would not hesitate to do business with them.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 27 March 2012 - 21:51
Might be worth clarifying that ASD is an American curriculum school (American School of Doha). I only mention this because the OP said her son is going into Y4, and generally this is the terminology used by British schools, whereas American schools would call it Grade 4 (or actually Grade 3, which is the American equivalent to the UK Year 4).
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 26 March 2012 - 01:04
Try deleting the app and re-installing it. My son got me started on this game this afternoon. Been playing with him for hours - thankfully he's now fast asleep. But I'm not getting any rest, as now I'm playing with my 12 year old nephew in the US, who will still be up for hours!! Addictive fun! :\:
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 25 March 2012 - 12:30
I was driving up Grand Hamad street the other day coming from the Corniche. On the right side where Souq Al Ahmed used to be, right in front of Souq Waqif, there was a sign on a white building that said "Gold Souqs." I'm guessing that means there is a plan to move them from the other side where they are now near the bus station. One day. Ladyluna if you follow Silver6's directions you'll be fine - it's just past the Al Fardan building as you are heading up Grand Hamad. Happy shopping!
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 24 March 2012 - 10:56
Thanks to you all! EW comes through again!
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 24 March 2012 - 02:10
She might just have a hard time saying goodby. I know plenty of people who avoid "goodbyes" like the plague so I don't think it's a question of her turning her back on you. You have been very kind, and whether she expresses it or not, she is probably very appreciative. However, I personally find a gift of the value you are saying - AED 12,000 - to be excessive. But maybe that's just me.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 24 March 2012 - 01:01
Thanks very much nole. I feel much better using an agency that has been recommended. I've contact them - thanks again.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 23 March 2012 - 16:25
Congratulations to you and your family! :)
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 22 March 2012 - 07:45
That was me DebK - thanks! I found some at Spinneys on someone's recommendation, and now have a serious supply on hand! Basic elbow shapes, but it'll do!! Gotta love the search feature :\:
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 21 March 2012 - 12:25
:) Sorry no answer but the question made me smile.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 18 March 2012 - 23:32
ccdoha I have no idea if any of the local clinics to x-rays. I think your best bet would be to go to the Al Ahli emergency room -- I know of plenty of people who have gone there for injured bones and had xrays done there. Aspetar is sports orthopedic hospital, but by appointment only (with LOOOOOONG waits - as in weeks or months) and they don't have an emergency room as far as I know.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 17 March 2012 - 11:13
GinaM have you tried the place on Mirqab that I went to. It was a few years ago, but still worth a shot. Also for other iPod related repairs we've had some luck at TCC (also the Mirqab branch, at the FCC end of the street). We haven't used them for screen problems, but they do a lot of iPod repairs so if they can't do it they might be able to direct you.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 16 March 2012 - 11:10
Reddington is a place not a person. I just remembered that we brought some HP laptops and printers there for repair years ago. It's on the C Ring Road -- opposite side from Gulf Cinema, a bit further toward Ramada.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 15 March 2012 - 22:05
Flying out of JFK I have found that they are usually pretty forgiving of a couple of kg. Of course it helps if the flight isn't too full, or if your son has the same name as the check-in agent and you can get into a nice conversation about how you chose the name (I swear that happened to me once, and tadaaa! no charge for about 15kg overload!).
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 15 March 2012 - 13:53
We've eaten at Zaatar w Zeit in souq Waqif -- and I'm pretty sure it was in the "cheap eats" range! I also agree with Vapiano AND MBC in the Gate.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 13 March 2012 - 18:03
Me three, both .com and .uk :cool:
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 12 March 2012 - 23:31
Opium Is a poppy derivative. Remember the Sienfeld episode where Elaine failed her drug test because she'd eaten poppy seed bagels?
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 11 March 2012 - 01:02
If she's American and you only want to have her with you for 3 months, the easiest thing would be to have her come in on a tourist visa on arrival. That's good for 1 month, and renewable for another month. Then a quick visa run to UAE or Bahrain and then a month again on re-entry. That's 3 months taken care of with the least amount of hassle. If you want her with you when you arrive, that's your best bet. You wouldn't be able to sponsor any household help until both DH and you have your residency sorted, and in any case I doubt you'd be able to sponsor someone from the US on any kind of domestic help visa.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 10 March 2012 - 23:20
It's attached to salaam plaza - across the street and down the road a bit from City Center. It's still pretty new, and full of high end shops. I've also been to a restaurant there (call Montreal Bread Co. I think) that had lovely sandwiches and soups, etc.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 10 March 2012 - 22:49
According to their website, opening in April. Looks good! The other night I ate Vapiano, also in The Gate. Yummy fresh pizza and pasta and very reasonable prices and a fun, casual atmosphere. Will absolutely be back.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 09 March 2012 - 19:28
If you're looking for a small-ish car that can hold lots of gear, check out the Peugeot 308. We had one for years and really loved it. The hatchback area is huge - much bigger than it looks from the outside - and held loads of equipment. Bigger than the Tida I'm pretty sure. And the car handled beautifully - I really had no complaints about it at all.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 09 March 2012 - 18:19
Thanks Jonners - that's the one!!
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 09 March 2012 - 15:01
I'm trying to help arrange for a tourist visa for my husband's niece. Have checked it all out, and our only option it seems is to do it via a hotel. I remember a while back there was a thread that mentioned a hotel that will do it without exorbitant charges. I won't even bother with the search function as it's pretty much useless on Doha forum. So if anyone has info about this, please share. Thanks!
 
 
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