The big move
hi there, my husband has just got a job in Doha and leaves NZ in about 26 days...not that i'm counting. i plan to follow in early December with our 3 boys aged 8,5,2...yep wish me luck for surviving 3 months on my own with them...oh and the long flight.We are trying to sort out this end (NZ) as much as we can before he leaves.What we want to know is what do we bring?Do we ship most of our household goods over or should we just buy the big stuff new once we get there and find a place to live etc.Any suggestions/tips would be greatly appreciated. we have also applied to about 3 schools but at this stage no spaces available.How long do these waiting lists go on for?, we were hoping to start them at the new school in the january term but if they don't get in before then we are wondering what other parents do (eg home school,tutor or stay in home country till place comes up or enjoy and extended holiday and learn all about our new home).We are a very excited about the big move but have to admit we are a bit nervous about the whole thing as everything is so unknown.What are the best family areas to live in? we have applied to DESS, Doha college,Compass and Newton...can anyone recomend any other good schools?
Thanks for the tips.i seem to have put my question on the forum twice...don't know how i managed that!!!So between here and the other posting i've got some good advice....keep it coming!!!
The above advice about shipping your furniture is good sound advice unless you feel you may need anything you can't live without. When it arrives there is cuctom clearance etc. which is still a big headache and with three children you already have a lot of work.Your husband will possible have fully/semi furnished family accommodation in his contract (If not ther are plenty ofers on the the marketdepending on how much you want to pay).
You can find most international products in all the local supermarkets and shops. There are a number of large shopping malls nowadays, which to choose from, however you will find all that out when you finally reach doha.
There are also a number of kindergartens around for small children. The applications for Doha College have to be made early and they only take the best of the applicating students. There is also an American School in the same street as Doha College (have you tried there for a place)? However, perhaps your husbands company might have some suggestions for you to.
Good Luck with your move
Hi - Welcome to Qatar - almost. :) I would say, don't ship anything. Furniture is affordable in Doha and many villas come fully/semi furnished. Unless you just can't live without it for X number of years, just store it at home. There are many great compounds for families. Availablity in a particular one might be an issue but there are many nice ones around. Do you know where your husband's office is? Maybe we could suggest some around there. My oldest is only 3 1/2 so school waiting list are for next year but you should check out expatwoman.com on the Qatar chatboard. Lots of moms there with school age kids. Qatar Academy is another good school to look at. Good luck with the move. We did it 2 years ago and it's been a great experience. Dec/Jan is a great time to get here too. Nice weather. :)