Everything we need to know
Hello all,
I am new to this forum but I've looked through most of the threads here in order to find the info I need. There are, however, still a few unanswered questions. I hope someone can help me answer these. We are most likely moving to Doha around summertime.
Here are the questions:
Is 26.000 Rial enough for a comfortable life and save a bit. Housing is paid for.
Is there a Scandinavian community?
Is it strict in terms of womens clothing. Is it like Dubai or more strict.
Are there any beaches for kite surfing. And if so, can I bring my wife and can she wear bikini?
Are there any “green areas” ie. Parks etc.
Is it possible to own a small sailing boat and is it expensive in Doha?
Is it easy to have friends and family visiting? Do they have to apply for visa in advance? They’re from Scandinavia
Are there any way to safely store the company provided furniture as we are bringing our own and we don't have the option of choosing unfurnished housing.
Are there good networks for meeting people. We don’t have kids in school and we don’t know anyone in Qatar.
Has anyone tried moving to Doha and bring their maid with them? Is it a lot of hassle/paperwork?
I apologize if you have seen these questions a million times before. Any input will be greatly appreciated.
Thanks...
Thank you Saint. That's nice of you. I might just take you up on that. First I'll need to pass the final test before we know if we're in fact moving to Doha.
But I'll keep it in mind.
Cheers..
If everything seems under control, you're just not going fast enough...
there are plenty here. However they mostly keep to themselves and the Danish community. Most work for Maersk Oil Qatar and they arrange various outings. I could probably find some contacts if you wish.
As for other Scandinavians I haven't come across too many in Qatar.
We'll look forward to seeing her at an event this summer.
Your wife should also check out the Mums in Doha group here on QL. Just click on Groups and then scroll down to find Mums in Doha. Novita is a great person to know as well :o)
Cheers,
ES
Thanks Sueño,
That was very helpful and much appreciated. Yes, we have a 6 month old boy so my wife would definitely want to meet up with other mum's.
ExiledSaint: Were you trying to be funny? I think my questions were very valid. However, if you don't agree with that then that's fine. My mum always taught me that if you don't have anything nice to say to a person then don't say anything at all. With that in mind, I won't comment further on your reply... In case I read your answer wrong then please accept my apologies. ;-)
If everything seems under control, you're just not going fast enough...
When you say that you "don't have kids in school", does that mean that you have younger ones? If so, check out http://www.dohaexpatmumsandkids.com and PM me if you have any questions about it. :)
I can't answer many of your questions, but I can hit on a couple.
With respect to bringing your housemaid with you, my understanding is that it largely depends on her nationality. (If I'm wrong, fellow QL-ers, please correct me!)
It is possible to own a small sailboat, but I don't know the details of doing so.
There are some green areas here in Doha, but don't expect lush expanses. There is a new green area park behind Hyatt Plaza, but aside from the giant tent-shades (not sure what to call them) there is little to no shade. It's fairly spartan, actually. Great place for a picnic.. .across the street from a so-so playground. . .but nothing incredible. I certainly wouldn't want to be there during the heat of the summer. There are a couple of other parks with larger playground areas and some green space but, again, it's not exactly Central Park.
In terms of meeting people, there are a couple of avenues that you can explore. Click on Groups here in QL to see the various groups that organize via QL. For socializing with other Danes, check out this website: http://dansker-i-qatar.dk/ There is also the Swedish Association of Qatar www.saq.nu and the Dutch-speaking Association of Qatar www.dsaqatar.org (yes, I know Sweden & Holland are not the same as Denmark :o)
Given that housing is paid for, I would think that 26kQR would be fine to live on - but someone else might know better than me.
Hope that helps,
Expat Sueño
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