tamieg1 | ExpatWoman.com
 

tamieg1

tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 29 October 2015 - 00:19
Do we regret it? No, not one bit. Amazing opportunity, lifestyle, and friends made. Would I do it again? Possibly, but with 20/20 hindsight would ask for a lot more money!
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 29 October 2015 - 00:17
To put it in perspective... I find driving on the M25 a piece of cake now, after 3 years in Doha!!! And previously I was too terrified to go on it unless absolutely necessary...
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 09 September 2015 - 23:34
Could you put her into boarding school in NZ or could she stay with a relative? What does she want to do after finishing school? Do NZ universities accept IB ? Are there any implications regarding university entrance in NZ if the parents are non-resident? (There are in the UK).
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 02 August 2015 - 01:52
There are a few FB groups that might interest you - one is the Doha Bay Running Club and the other is Australians and New Zealanders in Qatar (not sure on exact titles but you get the idea) and I'm sure you'll find some like minded people. Good luck! (PS really really suggest you take your real name off your original post)
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 22 July 2015 - 00:15
Great thank you! I have an appointment at Al Ahli for next week with Dr Zahra Alamooti. I hear very good things about Al Ahli and I am sure I will be in safe hands :-) If anyone does have any experience with the Women's Clinic do let me know! Thank you! Childbirth is very different in Doha than in the UK - it is more like the US obstetrician-led model, and you generally get a scan at every appointment. I recommend that you instead see Prof Badreldeen at Feto Maternal Clinic. He delivers at both Al Ahli and Doha Clinic. (I had my first baby at Al Ahli with Dr Asma and my second baby with Prof Badreldeen, also at Al Ahli). There is also an FB group called "Positive Birth Group Doha" (or something similar) which you will find very useful. Good luck!
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 20 June 2015 - 16:24
If you were my friend, I'd be having serious words with you about revealing so much private information on a public forum - especially when you claim to have acted in a professional capacity!!!
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 10 May 2015 - 22:38
My parents love Benares (chef is Atul Kochhar) for modern Indian food. I love the Wolseley for British classics or Sumosan for Japanese
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 05 May 2015 - 17:21
Do you already have school places? Will the school let your children start before they have an RP? Find out from your husband's company if he will be able to sponsor you asap or if he will have to have 6 months of bank statements before he can sponsor you
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 30 April 2015 - 14:27
If you have guaranteed school places and fees paid, absolutely yes do it.
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 March 2015 - 19:19
I second the recommendation to tweet them, it's the only way to actually get a decent response unfortunately
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 18 March 2015 - 19:18
My children are a lot younger, but I've heard very mixed reviews of secondary schools in Doha. Some children will thrive anywhere but unfortunately that is not the case for all. If it was my child is be inclined to board her in Australia, particularly if she intends to go to university in Australia...
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 11 February 2015 - 14:30
M&S in Landmark or Villagio. Or try the White Company in Landmark. Zara Home might be worth a look too.
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 24 January 2015 - 14:33
You need to call them all and find out the application process - I believe some have already closed for 4 years in Sept.
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 24 January 2015 - 14:30
BHT has a large pool and I believe Ezdan does too
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 23 January 2015 - 14:52
Didn't have any problems with my kids names - however their names aren't banned in Saudi either
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 January 2015 - 19:49
Ok I'll bite.... Why??? Doha is not exactly known for its history or culture...How long do they have? Have they been elsewhere in the region? Hotel depends on budget. The Four Seasons or the Grand Hyatt or the St Regis are nice at the top end, or some of the boutique hotels in Souq Waqif for something a bit trendier. Cultural sites... The souq was only rebuilt in the 80s to look old but there are bargains to be found as well as tourist stuff. There is a hop on, hop off bus now, as well as the West Bay bus. If they want to go dune bashing or on a trip to the Inland Sea, I believe Arabian Adventures are recommended as tour operators. My inlaws enjoyed the Mushereib Enrichment Centre anchored by the Sheraton and the Museum of Islamic Art. There is a gold souq as part of Souq Waqif now, as well as the original one behind the bus station.
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 19 January 2015 - 19:37
Uk banks are currently offering 10 year fixed mortgage rates for under 2.99% so you're not going to get a decent rate of interest on deposits any time soon. 2 year fixed isas only paying 1.8-2% max...
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 06 January 2015 - 18:15
Go and see Dr Renu at Tadawi Clinic. She is a proper pediatrician and will give you the best advice.
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 06 January 2015 - 16:46
In that case you should be asking your paediatrician... Who, if it is who I think it is, is probably getting kick backs from the formula company.
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 23 December 2014 - 00:35
Personally I would move straight to cows milk if the child has a reasonably balanced diet
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 December 2014 - 19:02
The fun city playgroup counts as an event to register, that's why I suggested it. Just ask around who the hostess is if it's not immediately obvious (they used to wear a badge, not sure if that's still the case!)
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 16 December 2014 - 02:46
Check out Doha Mums, there are plenty of organised and informal playgroups for you to attend! You need to attend an event in order to join, there is a playgroup at Fun City in City Centre every Thursday that would be perfect for your daughter. More details on the DM website.
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 05 December 2014 - 23:59
Something else to think about - where are you going to store the rest of your stuff? In hindsight, it would have been cheaper (and easier!) to ship all my belongings than to put them in storage for 3 years. Good luck with your move.
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 01 December 2014 - 12:59
Definitely bring your car seats with you!!! All the major airlines will let you bring a car seat and buggy as part of the infant's baggage allowance (ie not part of your 23 kg or whatever it is). And I would also the next stage ones as the range in Doha is very limited.
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 01 December 2014 - 01:32
No I mean you need super duper industrial strength air conditioning in Doha! Parts for Corollas should be readily available but you might want to check that out. One thing to consider is that most western expats drive SUVs due to the greater visibility and road presence rather than a sedan. Driving in Doha is an experience to say the least...
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 30 November 2014 - 23:35
I can't help you on schooling, but beware that your Canadian car's air conditioning may not be able to cope with Doha's requirements!!
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 30 November 2014 - 23:34
You also need to find out if you will be able to sponsor your children straight away, or if you will need to wait 6 months to get an RP. Many schools require children to have their RPs before they can start... If you're home schooling, who will look after the children? Again, will you be able to sponsor a maid/nanny straight away or will you need to wait 6 months for your RP?
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 30 November 2014 - 19:49
I have - and I would recommend Prof Badreldeen
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 05 November 2014 - 09:44
You can buy them from Lulu - they will be taking orders for Thanksgiving now but check when they start for Christmas. Another alternative is to buy one (cooked) from the hotels - Radisson Blue amongst others do it.
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 30 October 2014 - 13:38
Lulu or Carrefour have pretty cheap ones
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 30 October 2014 - 13:37
We had all our docs attested in Dublin including UAE embassy as was working in Dubai. Relocated to Doha an needed the docs re attested for Doha. No they do not do it here, we couriered the docs to the Irish Embassy in Abu Dhabi who stamped and attested this for us. It's all go from here on. I'm sure, as previous post mentioned, the British Embassy will do this for you. We were charged 200aed for the attest action. Good luck. Think you've missed the point here - the British Embassy do not do it!
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 30 October 2014 - 13:36
Hi, I know where one is but I don't know the name or the area.. but I will describe the direction.. let Landmark be on your left.. take the service road there is a park there... if u r not 100% sure of the area, check the website of Kid n around kindergarten (Doha) its very close to that.. It's called Dahl al Hammam Park. Very basic by skate park standards but a nice park for younger kids
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 21 October 2014 - 14:41
You will have seen on this (and other) fora how difficult it is to get school places here - in the past schools have declined to accept students with behavioral and/or learning issues. Please please please do your research and get in touch with the people listed below before making any decisions on moving your family.
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 October 2014 - 20:03
It is a huge hassle to change your name on your RP - you have to put an ad in the paper etc etc - so if you're going to do it, do it now. I kept my maiden name and had no problems. Regarding the multi-exit permit, only the employee needs it - you as a wife can leave whenever you like, whether he has a permit or not. I would get it in writing that a multi-exit permit will be issued before committing to any contracts.
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 28 September 2014 - 21:03
Also make sure you always have enough money for an emergency flight home
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 23 September 2014 - 22:21
We were in Beverly Hills Tower in 2011-12. Loved the facilities but we had issues with maintenance, particularly relating to the humidity level in the apartment.
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 23 September 2014 - 11:19
We were in the same boat and went for the 2br - we found people suddenly willing to stopover in Doha for a few days and had more visitors than we expected.
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 23 September 2014 - 11:16
Toys r us sometimes stock Tommy Tippee but supplies (as with everything in Doha) can be hit & miss. Have you tried Babyshop?
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 05 September 2014 - 23:22
I flew on my own at 13w with an 11m old in Etihad business class. The bassinet is pretty much on the ground - luckily he wasn't particularly mobile (lazy!) so didn't really climb out and I was able to use it to block him in. We then flew to the UK at 24w when toddler was 15m. I refused to do it unless he had his own seat. <em>edited by tamieg1 on 05/09/2014</em>
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 05 September 2014 - 23:17
Try Boots for the swimming nappies, they sometimes stock the smallest size. It can be really hit & miss though. Also try Carrefour for swimsuits, their sizing runs quite small. Nursing bras - M&S, Mothercare or Babyshop edited by tamieg1 on 05/09/2014 <em>edited by tamieg1 on 05/09/2014</em>
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 04 September 2014 - 12:45
It's only the credit cards that need to be cancelled, you can still use your debit card. You can also keep a savings account open when you leave if you wish. OSN is paid in advance so you just cancel it as appropriate. Don't forget to get back your Kahramaa and QDC deposits. We put our flights on credit cards from our home country.
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 03 September 2014 - 23:10
Thea 117, I'm not sure if info read are true, below are some feedback from others: 1) poor quality, mold grows elsewhere... 2) piping problem 3) management problem .. For what it's worth I had those problems in West Bay
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 03 September 2014 - 13:24
I did my Masters via distance learning through an Australian university. The lectures were posted online around an hour after they have been given, and tutorials were mainly done through a forum. I spent quite a lot of time at the Georgetown University Library, which is open to the public and was also a great resource for my studies. All my exams were done at home and submitted online, although I did have to attend a week-long residential for one subject. I didn't have a problem with self-motivation however the internet speed and reliability was sometimes a problem. Good luck!
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 03 September 2014 - 12:16
Hi LadyD, we have now left or you could have borrowed mine again! For travel cots and the jumperoo I would hop on FB to the "Buy It Swap It Sell It Kids" site and pick them up second hand, then resell them when they leave. For high chairs I would just get one IKEA Antilop chair, they're really cheap and you will be able to use them for years. Hope you're well xx
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 29 August 2014 - 23:19
I am sure Kiwispiers will jump on here soon with better info, but nursing in Qatar is widely accepted and as long as you are reasonably discrete there is no need to hide away - unless for your own comfort. All the Mothercare stores have a space for nursing (downstairs in Landmark). The One in landmark also has nice baby changing facilities and the cafe has little booths where you might feel slightly more private. Hyatt Plaza has a nice changing & nursing room next to Commercial Bank (kind of between the toy shop and Geant (or is it Al Meera now?). I haven't been back to Villagio since the fire but you could try the VIP toilets down the Dean & Deluca end. Have you joined Doha Mums yet?
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 28 August 2014 - 00:31
We used Al Rayyan as it's sourced locally
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 28 August 2014 - 00:30
It is one of the more established compounds with great facilities and a community feel. The villas all have yards although you may need to do work to it to make it better suited to your needs - the light will depend on the actual location but the ones I have seen have been reasonably light. The apartments however can be fairly dark so you need to double check you will definitely be in a villa rather than apartment.
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 25 August 2014 - 22:40
Another thing to consider is the cost of schooling. I saw recently that one of the new schools is charging over 30,000 for year one!! Unless the employer covers accommodation and schooling I wouldnt bother. Oh and many jobs, especially in construction, work 6 days. Double check this before signing anything!!
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 25 August 2014 - 22:36
The Doha Mums' Children's Library is actually really good.
tamieg1
676
Posts
EW GURU
Latest post on 17 August 2014 - 10:46
Dados is nice but pricey
 
 
How expats in Germany can get German pension refund

Bye Bye Germany - Hello German Pension Refund?

UAE Emirati Lawyer Awatif Khouri in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Meet the Emirati Woman Breaking Grounds in UAE Law: Awatif Khouri

Mashreq NEO NXT Account | Why Kids and Teens Need Financial Education

Why Teens Need Real-World Financial Education?

International university transition tips

How to Make the Transition to University Life Easier

How to apply for Germany VBL Pension Refund as an expatriate | Germany Pension Refund

Bye Bye German Public Service Job - Hello VBL Pension Refund

Tourist SIM cards in Dubai guide

Tourist SIM Cards in Dubai: Where to Get One and Package Prices

World's most expensive cities to live in 2024

These Are the World's Most Expensive Cities To Live in 2024

Dubai ranked as one of the best cities to work in 2024

Dubai Ranked Among Top 5 Cities in the World to Work In

What are the signs that your online date is a fraud

8 Warning Signs Your Online Date is a Scammer

10 Expat Experiences You Should Check Off Before Repatriation

10 Expat Experiences You Should Check Off Before Leaving For Good

Best and Worst Countries to Get Started Abroad for New Expats

Best and Worst Countries for New Expats to Get Started Abroad

Under the Mango Tree by Robyn Fok | Expat Books

Expat Author Robyn Fok's 'Under the Mango Tree' Deals With Pet Grief & Loss

Expat Wife, Happy Life: Interview With Expat Author Florence Reisch

(Images: Supplied)

Expat Interview: Meet Florence Reisch, Author of 'Expat Wife, Happy Life!'

Remembering Queen Elizabeth II: A Tribute by UAE Expats

Remembering an Extraordinary Woman: A Tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

10 reasons why expat women love the UAE

10 Reasons Why the UAE is a Popular Choice for Expat Women

6 Common Fears of Moving Abroad By Yourself and How to Overcome Them

Moving to the UAE Alone: 6 Common Fears and How to Overcome Them

Ultimate Babyshop Baby and Toddler Travel Packing List

These Baby Travel Essentials Are Must-Haves For Your Next Family Getaway

Requirements to apply for a UAE Golden Visa

How Do I Obtain a UAE Golden Visa? Requirements, Eligibility, and Process Explained

5 Tip for Expats to Survive Long-Distance Relationships

5 Tip for Expats to Survive Long-Distance Relationships

Opening a bank account in the UAE

A Newcomer to the UAE? What to Consider When Choosing a Bank for Opening an Account

Culture shock in the United Arab Emirates for expats

14 Ways You Will Experience Culture Shock in the UAE

Why you shouldn't upload your resume on your LinkedIn profile

5 Reasons Why You Shouldn't Upload a Resume to Your LinkedIn Profile

10 Secrets to Happiness as an Expat

10 Secrets to Finding Happiness as an Expat

4 Ways to Network as an Expat

4 Ways to Network as an Expat

8 Expat Problems That Are Just Too Real

8 Expat Problems That Are Just Too Real

How to Make New Friends in a Foreign Country

How to Make New Friends in a Foreign Country

Top 10 Countries with the Best Quality of Life

Top 10 Countries with the Best Quality of Life

The best European cities for new expats

Pictured: Prague

The Best Cities in Europe for Expat Arrivals

House in Husavik

10 Amazing Things To Do In Iceland

How to Make Your Own Life as an Expat and Why It’s Important

How to Make Your Own Life as an Expat and Why It’s Important

The Labriz eforea spa location

Why Seychelles is One of the Best Holiday Destinations

The Real Expat: Chasing Your Dreams to Find Your True Purpose

The Real Expat: Chasing Your Dreams to Find Your True Purpose

6 Annoying Things Expats Hate Hearing

6 Annoying Things Expats Hate Hearing