RachelA | ExpatWoman.com
 

RachelA

RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 14 August 2011 - 17:19
Garangao is pretty specific to Qatar. I've never heard of it being celebrated in expat compounds, even where there are a lot of non-Qatari Arabs.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 14 August 2011 - 10:28
Do you mind telling us how much it cost? I'm heading to Dubai (from Qatar) for a few days next week, and would be really interested in having this done. Thanks!
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 14 August 2011 - 10:06
Great photographer, wonderful teacher (photography and photoshop classes). Highly recommend: http://lydiashawphotography.com/
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 06 August 2011 - 20:07
I was at Villagio today too Jill - would have loved to run into you!
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 04 August 2011 - 10:52
Lori is the slingbox queen! We subscribe to mlb.tv and watch online - but that obviously only covers baseball. I think I mentioned little league in a previous threat. They generally get started early October and the season goes through the spring. Generally very well run - my son will be started his 5th year, and really loves it. Range of skills, nationalities and competitiveness keeps things interesting. Maybe we should take this to email? Clearly we're not talking about buying TVs anymore (but I should mention that we bought one at the Samsung store on a good sale, but that Carrefour and Lulu generally have good prices and selection). My email is rachelawad at gmail dot com. If you write to me I can add Lori in if she hasn't already replied here.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 04 August 2011 - 01:17
Oh no, she's not the only one who got the PA connection! I'm a Philly girl myself... Not a huge football fan (but if I had to choose I'd say "go Eagles!") but in my family it's baseball all the way! My son - 14 - will be back in Qatar late August, and he's always happy to meet http://www.expatwoman.com/qatar/forum/topics.aspx?ForumID=24 her American sports fans. Maybe we can all get together? Lori when are you guys back? <em>edited by RachelA on 04/08/2011</em>
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 04 August 2011 - 01:12
Wow - thought you were here announcing that Cheesecake Factory was opening! I'm both saddened and relieved to find out it's not...
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 03 August 2011 - 19:05
I know I've seen crisco in Megamart - keep checking back.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 03 August 2011 - 00:43
There's a range, of course. The Philippine Embassy has set a requirement of $400 (approx. QR 1400) for Filipino housemaids. There are people who pay more, and many who pay less. Also some people pay additional for food/groceries, and others include that in the salary. Law here is a ticket home every 2 years, and again, some folks provide this annually. Hope this helps...
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 02 August 2011 - 20:14
I've used the one K3 mentioned a few times - haven't been disappointed yet. And I didn't even know we had one of our compound! :\: Email me Phokoje - Let's try to connect on Friday or Saturday - I'm traveling again on Sunday! ;) <em>edited by RachelA on 02/08/2011</em>
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 02 August 2011 - 20:10
The Grand Hyatt as a lunch special (12:30 - 3:00) during Ramadan which includes choice of starter, main and desert for QR 75, in the Grill Restaurant. Went today - all was delicious!
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 02 August 2011 - 00:23
Thanks for sharing - great info! I was at Landmark this afternoon and was happy to learn that Paul's is open for take away all day. They start serving in at 6:30. I didn't look, but I think they have an iftar special going also.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 01 August 2011 - 01:37
Have never used the Nook so it's hard to compare, but I love love love my kindle and wouldn't ever want to be without it. One of my favorite features (and maybe Nook has this too - like I said I can't compare) is the ability to download a sample (usually the 1st chapter or 2) - akin to browsing in a physical bookstore.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 28 July 2011 - 19:27
Phokoje am I correct in remembering that you are in Riviera? I'm back next week for a few days, and would be happy to sit with you and our respective iPads and help get you sorted if you've not got it solved by then.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 28 July 2011 - 03:06
Without a doubt Riyaz (from amy77's link) is the one to buy from. You'll feel more like you are talking to a museum curator than a salesman.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 28 July 2011 - 02:46
I'm in Egypt at the moment and the Ramadan spirtit - including the lights and music - are everywhere! Ramadan Kareem to all!
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 11 July 2011 - 21:51
Phokoje I am also in Riviera - although away until sometime early to mid August. I don't know of any other EW's who are there, and would love to meet for a coffee when I get back. Feel free to email me (and let me know when you've got this so I can delete my address). Rachel <em>edited by RachelA on 14/07/2011</em>
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 08 July 2011 - 14:47
Its the nature of Expat living that kids come and go throughout the school year. When we first arrived it was the start of Term 3 and my son (8 years old at the time) did just fine. The schools are used to it and teachers tend to be quite supportive.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 08 July 2011 - 14:43
Not sure what the rents are like, but Beverly Hills Al Rayan is pretty close to Sherborne.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 07 July 2011 - 17:39
According to the contract required by the Philippines embassy in Qatar, the requirement is for a ticket to Manilla. But I always buy my maid a ticket to her hometown. The cost difference is a lot less significant to me than it is to her, and this way I book it as a single ticket. I know it makes it much easier for her when she's traveling.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 07 July 2011 - 16:14
If they are interested in baseball the only option (and it's a FABULOUS option) is the Qatar Little League. The season generally starts in October, but kids join in any time. It's generally very organized and well run. Don't think the website is up to date (you could google it and check) but if you post again when you arrive I can send you the number of whoever is organizing it this year. It's all volunteer run, so leadership tends to change year to year.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 07 July 2011 - 16:10
I have a 14 year old son, and gift vouchers (Virgin mostly) are always good. Or iTunes gift cards.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 06 July 2011 - 01:25
I'm in Doha, but hearing that H&H bagels are available there would make a trip over totally worth it!!
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 06 July 2011 - 00:59
Most of the pharmacies carry them...
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 04 July 2011 - 22:15
I had q few friends who moved over from Doha to Abu Dhabi, and were on very similar packages in both places (and in both places housing was provided, so any difference in housing costs didn't impact them).
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 04 July 2011 - 22:12
I'm pretty sure the only way to get into physio there is through a referral from one of their doctors on staff. I've been in to see a few of them, as has my son, and we have no team affiliations. I was referred to physio twice, but two different orthopedists there, for 2 unrelated problems. Both times it was brilliant! Had to wait a bit for the initial consult as they were fully booked far in advance, but it might be easier these days as the general population has thinned out.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 04 July 2011 - 14:36
The physical therapy department at Aspetar is brilliant! The hospital specializes in sports med...
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 04 July 2011 - 14:35
ccdoha me too! On a totally unrelated topic... ;)
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 04 July 2011 - 14:11
Missing the fireworks! I'm wearing red white and blue to work, but can't say as anyone has noticed! Happy 4th to you too - and any other Yanks who are still in Qatar! :cool:
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 03 July 2011 - 18:03
Jarir is one thought - and there are quite a few office furniture stores along Salwa road.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 02 July 2011 - 18:28
Which one would deliver to Doha? Dubai Mall or Media City? Hmmmm. blister 19 I've got to say I was a bit disappointed. The issue was that it wasn't hot - but what do I expect as it was a far way for delivery. If we hadn't been absolutely starving we could have heated it up first, but we've got an electric oven that takes forever to get warm, so we couldn't be bothered.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 02 July 2011 - 14:36
I use a program called VUSE to convert movies and music for iPod and iPad. I generally use it for movies and music that I download, but it seems you can use it with files that are already on your computer. There are icons on the left side for the different formats that you want to convert, and it's a drag-and-drop feature onto the icon that you want. I use it on a mac, but I'm pretty sure its available for PC too.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 02 July 2011 - 12:05
The US sites that definitely take non-US (including Qatari) cc's: Amazon Gap Old Navy Lands end Zappos Apple (but they won't ship to S&S - I had them ship to my brother then he sent it to my S&S address) These are the sites I've ordered from in the past while - if you've used others with a Qatari (or other non-US) credit card, let us know! Picklz we do have DHL and FedEx - and they definitely deliver door to door - but prices are much higher than Shop and Ship. Even though it's a nuisance, it's still the best deal in town.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 01 July 2011 - 20:57
We've just ordered from Fabio's for the 1st time (it's on its way). I figured they'd never deliver here cause we're clear across town, but the other day I saw their delivery guy coming into the compound! Lot's of recommendations here, so my expectations are high!
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 01 July 2011 - 19:04
We've been with Commercial, QNB and Doha Bank, and without a doubt Commercial beats the others in terms of ease and customer service. If you will be transferring money to a home based account it might be worth asking around, as different banks have different systems and deals.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 01 July 2011 - 16:57
The only shopping site I've ever found that doesn't ship to the shop and ship address is apple.com. Otherwise it's been great!
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 30 June 2011 - 23:32
RubyRed we are thinking of a Mediterranean Cruise for the 2nd Eid. Which one did you do? Recommendations welcome!
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 30 June 2011 - 23:20
Would there be brunch specials during Ramadan? Being that August is Ramadan this year...
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 30 June 2011 - 22:12
realist I had a similar experience. Well not pain so much, but was quite nauseous and weak right afterwards. I slept it off, and woke up a new woman! With regard to the Groupon, if its a reputable center and people are reporting good experiences, the fact that they are offering a discount doesn't mean its any riskier than paying full price. Realist had a good experience, so there's no reason to assume that you won't as well KT! I had mine done in Egypt - where I paid about 1/4 of what I would have paid for the same procedure in Qatar. The doctor and clinic I went to were highly reputable, and the lower cost was not a reflection of questionable medical capabilities. My only regret I had was that I waiting so long before having the surgery in the first place!
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 29 June 2011 - 23:30
I recently tried Loreal's excellence line because my color was out of stock and this line had a close match. I didn't like it at all - my hair felt very coarse and dry, which it never does with the preference range. Just my way of saying that not all Loreal products are created equal...
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 29 June 2011 - 22:59
I use preference by loreal and get loads of compliments. Even my hairdresser says no need to have it done in a salon when the box works so well!
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 29 June 2011 - 21:04
Not just you. I get all the Dubai emails - never once got a Qatar one!
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 29 June 2011 - 19:15
I had Lasik when I was 44, and the Dr. told me that I should expect to need reading glasses immediately. He was completely right. I've been using reading glasses ever since, and while it's a slight nuisance it is a million times better than being completely dependent on glasses or contacts. Pre-Lasik I could not even get up in the night to pee without putting on my glasses, so needing to reach into my bag to read a menu is nothing to complain about in comparison. I do most of my leisure reading on the kindle, and I generally make the typeface larger rather than put my glasses on. The way I figure it, I'm a lot happier with reading glasses than I would be with bifocals.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 29 June 2011 - 10:00
I did receive a packet at the Embassy (in addition to the Arabic letter for the fingerprints) but I'm pretty sure it was just all print-outs of what is on the website for getting FBI report.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 28 June 2011 - 17:51
A friend who recently had some serious heart issues went to see Dr. Patel at Al Ahli. He was recommended to them by cardiologists they knew on in other countries, and said that "he was the best." Apparently he was in the process of moving from Al Ahli to Hamad so I'm not sure where he is at the moment, but he comes highly (and I mean HIGHLY) recommended. Good luck - hope all is okay.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 28 June 2011 - 17:24
Just to put your mind doubly at ease - no, there was no cost for the fingerprints. Only the RIDICULOUS cost of $50 at the Embassy for the priviledge of getting the process started, and then the costs of FedExing docs to and from the FBI (I think that was about QR 350 r/t) the $18 for the FBI, the $50 at the Embassy AGAIN once you get the FBI report before you take it to the MFA here in Qatar, and I recall a small fee at the MFA for their stamp. All told I think I paid about QR 900 or so for the priviledge of confirming that I'm not a criminal - but not a cent of that was for the actual fingerprinting! Roxanne, sorry I didn't have a chance to stop and chat when I saw you - but nice to see you even in quick passing...
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 28 June 2011 - 04:16
Most clinics don't book Friday appointments, but I know that Al Ahli does a Friday walk-in Clinic in many departments. Not sure about Cardio, but I know internal medicine has one.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 27 June 2011 - 14:50
ccdoha if you don't have any luck, I'll be going to Egypt in the next couple of weeks and will be back early August, so will be happy to get you some if you've not sorted anything out locally. Let me know.
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 26 June 2011 - 19:08
And as we all know, happy teen = VERY happy mom!!
RachelA
1326
Posts
EW OLDHAND
Latest post on 25 June 2011 - 18:41
When my son's was asking up we took it to Starlink, as had bought it at C4 and it came with a Starlink warranty. Their service is done at the Nasr St. branch, across from FFC. If yours is out of warranty I think they might do it there at a cost, even if the warranty wasn't with them originally.
 
 
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