Steelers43 | ExpatWoman.com
 

Steelers43

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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 07 January 2013 - 11:48
I ordered posters for my 13-year-old son's room on the internet (allposters.com, zazzle, amazon) and had them sent here (Aramex) and then framed at King of Frames near the souq. If you order online, you can get exactly what you want (including size) and framing was reasonable. I think I paid QR500 for 3 (one quite large).
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Latest post on 07 January 2013 - 11:42
There is some lovely bedding for sale at the market fair going on now at the Exhibition Center. I think the last day of Jan. 10.
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Latest post on 31 December 2012 - 14:29
Does anyone know if there are tech support specialists one can hire to work on home computers? My iTunes has crashed and it has something to do with Windows Installer (I can't uninstall or install anything else now either). I have tried all the "fixes" found through a google search but I haven't had any luck with any of them. I'd like to just hire someone who is tech savvy to find a solution for me and generally clean up my computer. All suggestions are welcome.
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Latest post on 26 November 2012 - 14:47
Yes, you can use them. You just need to get 220 light bulbs -- which can sometimes be a challenge (I still can't find candleabra type lightbulbs here to fit into some of my US lamps). You could get an electrician to change the plug on the cord or just plug them into a converter plug and then into the wall socket.
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Latest post on 12 November 2012 - 16:53
Contact Nicole at Art of Abundant Living http://www.linkedin.com/pub/nicole-van-hattem-hhc-aadp-afaim-cahri/17/297/595. Or find the Art of Abundant Living page on FB.
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Latest post on 12 November 2012 - 16:45
Check out Al Areen Tower (across from the Marriott; between the Dunes Hotel and the new InterCon). We just moved out of a large 3BR which was very nice and convenient for shopping, restaurants, bars, etc. The only reason for our move (after 1 year) was to move to a villa close to school. Rent for 3BR semi-furnished is QR13,000 (includes A/C).
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Latest post on 14 October 2012 - 16:52
Any teachers out there who are experienced in coaching kids on this who would be interested in a few hours of extra work per week?
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Latest post on 14 October 2012 - 16:49
You need to check the requirements for your state. They are all different. There are various websites that direct you through the process for your state. Just google overseas voting.
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Latest post on 14 October 2012 - 16:45
Oh, no. I'm getting a survey from Runway Movers tomorrow morning. Does anyone else have any better suggestions?
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Latest post on 10 October 2012 - 22:55
I have been using this site and have gotten some decent replies: www.propertyfinder.qa. Be careful with the agents. Some of the agents want to charge you a fee for a property even when they get the full fee from the landlord; others don't.
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Latest post on 29 September 2012 - 22:11
Be careful using some of these. I've had a CV very badly mis-handled by a recruitment consultant. Be clear what you're looking for and do not allow them to send your CV in until the time and in the way that you agree.
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Latest post on 29 September 2012 - 22:08
Does anyone have recommendations for a moving company to move me from an apartment into a villa? I'm looking for a company that will do the entire move -- packing, transport, unpacking -- at a reasonable cost. I know that the big international moving companies will do this, but am hoping to find a local mover who will do the job at a lower cost.
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Latest post on 08 September 2012 - 15:36
Does anyone have any suggestioons for purchasing upholstery fabric in Doha? I would like to have some large pillows made for a sofa and am looking for mid- to high-end fabrics and someone who can make the pillows.
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Latest post on 08 September 2012 - 14:43
Americans pay tax on world-wide income, although if you meet either the "physical residence" or "bona fide resident" test under the tax code. you will qualify for the foreign earned income exclusion (I think that's about $90k currently). All income above that is fully taxable. Your income includes not only your salary but all your benefits (housing, school fees, transportation, etc.). In addition to federal tax, you will also pay state tax if you maintain residency in one (although, as katniss notes, you can break residency -- just make sure that you do that in a way that your last state accepts). As for SSN and Medicare, I think the only way that's payable is if you work for a US company that must withhold. There are criteria under the tax code for mandating withholding. If you don't work for a US company, I don't think you have to pay that (but, of course, your benefits will be reduced when you reach eligible age). If your employer is not withholding tax for you, you must pay estimated taxes on a regular basis to avoid penalties if, when you file for the year, you will owe taxes. There's a short quarterly statement that you send in with your payment. I also agree with katniss that you have a professional do your taxes. I use a great guy in the region -- Andrew at expatustax. Well worth the cost for the comfort that you will have. Note also -- with the introduction of the new FATCA regulations, it's not so easy for Americans to hide from the tax authorities as international banks must now report their US account holders (or lose benefits when dealing with the US). It's making for busy times for people like Andrew!
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Latest post on 25 August 2012 - 02:28
I just did a search on picture framing in Doha and found this post. Does anyone have any updated info? I have a few sports posters that I'd like to have framed for my son's room so really just need the glass/plastic cut to size and clipped.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 April 2012 - 21:47
Dr. Nawal Alem Chaarani, private clinic near Al-Ahli Hospital, tel 4488 0887. She removed a mole for my daughter, was very attentive, well-trained, and follow-up was excellent.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 April 2012 - 12:29
I use a MagicJack as well. I think the first year of use is free. Then you can convert to an annual or 5-year plan. I use also like Deb and her husband -- to call the US. However, people can leave messages for you on the number and you get an email with the recorded message attached so you can hook it up and call back.
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EW NEWBIE
Latest post on 23 April 2012 - 12:19
I had a US issued check that I deposited into my account at QNB. It took about 6 weeks to clear. I don't recall them charging a substantial fee though.
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Latest post on 23 April 2012 - 12:16
Dan Lou -- Have you checked out yyzdoh's suggestion yet? I'm looking for one as well, but don't want to travel to find the shop if they don't have what I'm looking for. I want a 1500 Watt one. I have found smaller wattage ones at Technical Care Center (at City Centre or Landmark) but they're not strong enough for my Waring Blender.
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Latest post on 23 April 2012 - 09:34
I have some IKEA things for sale -- blue Hemnes dresser and nightstand and some Besta shelves -- all still in original boxes -- perfect for boy's room or that French provincial look! I have tried to post a classified add on this site but it's still not up so I have added a thread here (which will likely be removed). If anyone can repost on DohaMums, I would be most grateful. Items are also on QatarLiving. You can email me on gmail at dohakc.
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Latest post on 24 March 2012 - 14:01
I think this is do-able. We have a partner at my firm who has both. The firm is licensed through the DIFC in Dubai and the QFC here so I don't know if things are different within the State.
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Latest post on 28 January 2012 - 17:23
I had some rings that needed similar repairs. I took them down to the gold souq and found a jeweller who said he could do it for me, but I haven't actually had it done yet. It's in the building with a number of shops around a central courtyard -- and it's back in one of the corners.
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Latest post on 16 January 2012 - 12:18
Since it's tax season for Americans, I'd like to just post that I've now met with Andrew (details below) twice and he's a true delight to work with. Not only is he preparing my returns, he's also providing me with needed tax advice with regard to withholdings, tax strategy, and the like. His company is based in Dubai but he's in Doha frequently. I'm very happy to have found him through this Forum.
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Latest post on 16 January 2012 - 12:08
I have just met with a wonderful US tax accountant. He's extremely knowledgeable, attentive, responsive, and a real pleasure to deal with. He covers US expats around the Gulf. You can find his contact details at www.expatustax.com.
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Latest post on 14 January 2012 - 20:05
I have a wonderful male personal trainer and his wife is a trainer as well. I asked him this morning if she takes on private clients and he said yes. I haven't met her so I can't vouch for how good she is, but you could certainly give her a call and have her visit you for a sample session. Email me at dohakc at gmail and I'll give you contact details.
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Latest post on 14 January 2012 - 12:28
I'd like to add, my trainer will also put together private yoga classes for groups. He was off to a class just after I saw him this morning!
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Latest post on 14 January 2012 - 12:27
I have a very good trainer who comes to my apartment gym in West Bay. He works in a hotel gym (where I stayed for several months) and takes private clients in his off hours. He does regular workouts (body, weights, cardio, etc.), stretching, yoga, and massage (his massages are fabulous). Price is probably roughly equivalent to those quoted by Sleepless 50 (maybe just a little bit cheaper). His wife is also a personal trainer at another gym and she might be available for personal training in her off hours also. His current work hours are 6AM to 3PM, so he's available after that. Email me if you'd like his phone number at dohakc at gmail.
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Latest post on 08 January 2012 - 14:30
Do any of you know if these doctors will arrange for a scan and draining of an enlarged thyroid? And, as a relative newcomer to Doha, any information that you can provide as to how to make an appointment with these doctors (particularly phone numbers) would be really helpful!
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Latest post on 29 November 2011 - 16:25
I met two NLP practioners last night at the QPWN event. See their website at www.artofabundantliving.com.
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Latest post on 09 November 2011 - 22:54
I contacted two of the names that I found through an earlier search of this forum -- PwC (through their website) and Andrew Landin. Andrew contacted me within 18 hours and answered most of my immediate questions. He travels between Dubai and Doha on a regular basis so if you want to meet him face-to-face here, he's available. I'm going to meet him at the end of November. I haven't heard back from PwC yet, but then it's still a holiday. I have to say, though, that Andrew was so incredibly helpful and responsive, that I'm already biased in his favor, no matter what PwC says. You can find him by a google search -- his name and US expat tax.
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Latest post on 16 October 2011 - 21:29
I think it was QR16,000 -- the bungalow. They have a sheet that you can get (actually 2 pages) with descriptions of the four types of villas, floor plans, square meters, and prices. You can get it from the office. I thought the bungalow was charming. It had a central courtyard in the middle, but it was a bit dark, the ceilings were low, and it was generally dated and my kids didn't like it. For the price, I thought we could find something bigger, brighter, and more modern.
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Latest post on 16 October 2011 - 14:19
Well, that makes more sense, but the people who were telling me about the imminent new rule were insistent that there is a real risk of purchasing a used car -- despite my protestations that this made absolutely no sense. Anyone else hear anything like this?
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Latest post on 16 October 2011 - 12:29
Two people have just told me that there are several rumors circulating about used cars in Doha. The first is that all taxi services must have cars that are no older than 5 years old, and that this rule is apparently in effect now. The second is that there is a new rule/policy being considered that would prevent registration of private vehicles that are older than 5 years -- which would effectively render a vehicle older than that valueless. Urban legend or is there truth to any of this?
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Latest post on 16 October 2011 - 12:24
I got a call from the wait list 3 weeks after putting my name onit. I looked at the villa that was available (probably the same one referred to be Picklz) and passed on it. It was a one-story villa.
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Latest post on 13 October 2011 - 09:07
Thanks kerboo. Application for membership going in today.
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Latest post on 11 October 2011 - 19:35
Thanks so much for posting this, Keri. I have been trying to get info on the AmCham for the last few months without success. Have they just set up their website? I have RSVP'd. See you there.
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Latest post on 10 October 2011 - 22:40
I second what Baffled has said. Both QPWN and InterNations are excellent networks. I have met some HR folks at InterNations and the QPWN group has lots of executive coaches who work with HR Departments on a regular basis. BNP Paribas has also been offering some job search programs through their career department. Yes, it is all about networking here, and you have to work it. I started networking before I even arrived for my daughter who was coming to Qatar 2-1/2 months after me. Thanks to the effort of an awesome mom :) she walked into 4 interviews in the first three weeks and was offered a job in pretty short order. She started on Sunday! All that said, I think it might be easier for someone with no experience to find something than someone with a lot of experience. Employers might think that you will be expecting too much so you need to figure out how to package yourself for presentation on an individual basis.
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Latest post on 10 October 2011 - 22:28
How much are the KIA Sorentos?
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Latest post on 09 October 2011 - 21:55
Hi, Linda Dee. Yes, I am interested. You can email me at kjlj.Steelers43 at gmail.
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Latest post on 08 October 2011 - 20:45
I ate at Cucina twice in the last 10 days and enjoyed meals on both days. They have a wonderful antipasti bar. If you order the antipasti as a starter, you can go to the bar and select what you like from 15-20 options -- everything ranging from oysters, shrimp and calamari to parmesan cheese and olives. I didn't pay either time since I'm a resident, but I think the price was reasonable -- around QR55 for the antipasti -- and frankly, that was enough for me for the evening. But we did also try main course options -- pastas, risotto and chicken. The risotto was my favorite. And, of course, my kids loved the tiramisu. I just walked down to check out the Steak House this evening and I don't think I'll be taking the kids there. From a quick look at the menu, steak main courses run in the QR200 to QR300 range. But it's a very classy place. I wish I had made it there for a meal during the simulation!
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Latest post on 04 October 2011 - 21:17
I'm sure I saw them at one of the shops at City Centre but now can't remember which one it was at.
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Latest post on 04 October 2011 - 21:06
Just tried them over the weekend. The kids bought two and I had a bite of each -- white chocolate and caramel. Both were delicious!
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Latest post on 04 October 2011 - 21:05
Just wondering if the cupcake place is the one in NY from "*** and the City" -- made famous by the show and has now gone global.
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Latest post on 17 September 2011 - 01:24
Residents were invited to try Champions this evening for a soft opening, but it's not open to the public yet. The most they will say about an opening date is soon -- maybe at the end of this week. It's nice inside but, even with just the few people who were there, very smokey. I'm staying here until the end of October so will keep you posted as things open up.
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Latest post on 13 September 2011 - 22:45
CSH: There's a map for Zaks here http://www.asd.edu.qa/page.cfm?p=420
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Latest post on 05 September 2011 - 23:42
I think there might be one or more Hash House Harriers groups in Qatar. You can google them.
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Latest post on 04 September 2011 - 18:46
I have just moved into the Marriott Residences and walk by Champions most days on my way into City Centre. It's definitely getting close to completion. We were told that there will be 3 restaurants opening up around Sept. 15. I'll keep an eye out and post when they're opened.
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Latest post on 31 August 2011 - 13:19
Rachel, If you do decide to go, perhaps we can meet up and introduce boys to each other. Let me know!
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Latest post on 30 August 2011 - 18:41
Thanks BEDH. I'm going to call them after Eid.
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Latest post on 30 August 2011 - 18:35
We're going tomorrow night!