Visa Restrictions During the UN Conference in Doha, Qatar

Discalimer: I got this e-mail from my husband, which was forwarded by their HR Department. Information may change so please conduct your own due diligence before using the information below.


ENTRY & EXIT VISAS DURING UN CONFERENCE
By tallg on Mon, 03/11/2008 - 8:24am

There has been some speculation recently that people will not be allowed to enter or exit Qatar between 28th November and 3rd December (while the UN conference is taking place). Travel agencies are passing on what seems to be false information about this, saying that only residents with multiple exit visas will be allowed in and out of Doha during this time. The following information comes from Doha Airport Immigration (visa section), so there is no issue for residents and if you are expecting visitors (tourist or business) just make sure you purchase their visas in advance;

• Employees with residence permit can travel and come back any time (multiple exit visa is not a mandatory) and exit visas will be issued regularly.

• Business visa and tourist visa will be issued till 28th November. Visitors can enter Qatar between 29th November and 3rd December, if they have already obtained their visa (business/tourist).

• Immigration authority will neither accept visa application nor issue visas (business /tourist) between 29th November and 3rd December. (Also tourist visa will not be issued upon arrival from Doha airport during this period).

Doha Players Annual Pantomime 2008: The Wishing Well

The Doha Players is again set to stage their Annual Pantomime on November 27, 28 and 29, 2008. This year's performance will be the "The Wishing Well" written by Arnold Ashbrook and adapted by Sarah Jenkins.

Performance dates:

Thursday 27th November, 7pm
Friday 28th - 2.30pm and 6.30pm
Saturday 29th - 2.30pm and 6.30pm

Tickets Available from:

SAQR Entertainment Store (Opposite The Body Shop), Landmark Mall
QR. 50 - Adults & Children

I got tickets already. Get yours soon as tickets sell out quickly especially the 2:30 performances.

Scroll down for the synopsis.

Synopsis

The witch Grizelda has been banished from Fairytale land because she keeps messing up spells. Her punishment is to guard the wishing well. It comes to her notice that some baddies are going to steal Old King Cole’s medallion and she needs some small people to go down the well into Fairytale Land . Cue Peter, Lucy and Rachel, 3 children who have got lost in the woods and stumble upon the well. Grizelda sends them down the well. In Fairytale Land they meet, Red Riding Hood, Cinderella, Prince Charming, the Ugly Sisters and lots of other well known children’s characters. Needless to say good triumphs over evil and all ends well.

(Google “Pantomime History” to find out more about the background of this type of play)

Performances at Porto Arabia Board Walk at The Pearl Qatar

E-mails are circulating about the upcoming performances on the newly opened boardwalk at The Pearl Qatar from November 1, 2008 all the way through January 31, 2009. However, there's no info whether these activities are free and open to the public. We really would like to go if it is open to the public or the fee is reasonable. If you are interested to find out what is to expect at the boardwalk for the next three months, find below the list of performances and the schedules.

November 1 – November 10 (4:00 pm – 9:00 pm)
Les Excentriques – As all the rest of the performers, Les Excentriques come from the city of arts and culture Paris. Their colorful costumes and diverse acts will entertain you in many different ways with musical instruments, acrobats, and dancers.


November 11 – November 20 (4:00 pm – 9:00 pm)
Les Cybres – With their luminous appearance Les Cybres inspire the universe of science fiction. Their costumes also feature electronic music and colorful lights.


November 21 – November 22 (Friday: 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm) (Saturday: 11:00 am – 11:00 pm)
Super Car Show - A 30 + luxury automotive brands like Ducati, Ferrari, Grand Turismo, X6, McLaren, Bentley, Lamborghini and others will be showcased on the boardwalk. There will also be a golf simulator for the golf enthusiasts, live music and Lavish VIP lounge.


November 23 – November December 5 (4:00 pm – 9:00 pm)
Bazartuka - Iridescent colors and lights are the main features of this fun ensemble. They play samba and urban rhythms with hand held percussions.


December 6 – December 17 (4:00 pm – 9:00 pm)
Les Bataola – They represent the spirit of the real Brazilian carnival by playing Cuban and Caribbean inspired rhythms.


December 18 – December 31 (4:00 pm – 9:00 pm)
Christmas program - Christmas inspired ice fairies, elves and living statues will entertain you amongst nicely decorated Christmas markets selling your favorite treats for the seasons.


January 1 – January 11 (4:00 pm – 9:00 pm)
Les Lutins – With winter inspired costumes and many different instruments these performers appear as magical creatures from the forest playing festive music and alluring celebration mood amongst young and old.


January 11 – January 21 (4:00 pm – 9:00 pm)
Les Elegants - Venetian inspired costumes with patterns of a playing deck of cards, this group is one of the most elegant and original. They will simply entertain you by their gracious appearance.


January 21 – January 31 (4:00 pm – 9:00 pm)
La brigade des Jouets - This group includes puppets, little soldiers, and ladies on stilts as well as an orchestra that creates an atmosphere by playing music and impresses audience with unique costumes.

Awesome Qatar Sunset

SUNSET...one of the few great things that can be enjoyed in Qatar. Taken by my husband during DPSC outdoor photoshoot activity at Fort Zubara in June 2008.

Isn't it awesome? Do you also love sunset?

Eid Mubarak!!!

Eid Mubarak to all!!!

I'm posting my greetings now because we're flying to Europe tonight for a short vacation. This blog will be quiet in the next two weeks. I hope that you'll have a wonderful Eid too!

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This blog does contain content which might present a conflict of interest. This content will always be identified.

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2008 Eid Holidays in Qatar

As published in Gulf Times and The Peninsula today, The Official Eid Holidays for the government and ministries will start from September 28, 2008 to October 6, 2008. Eid holidays for banks, financial institutions and the Doha Securities Market will be for three days. The Qatar Central Bank (QCB) will announce the start of the three days’ holiday. Read the article here and here.

Walter's Photo in Gulf Times

Let me do a little bit of bragging in this post. I'm just proud that my husband's photo was chosen by Gulf Times (Qatar English Daily) for today's article about Philippine Basketball League Qatar (PBLQ). Not his best shot though. You can visit his photo gallery for more of his shots. Me and my husband are active member of Doha Pinoy Shooters Club and if you are a Filipino currently in Qatar and is interested to join, read here.


You can read the full article here.

Benefits of Online Auto Loans

I was so thrilled when I finally bought my dream car and personally took out the loan to pay for it. However, my excitement was tempered because the processing of my Car Loan took days before it was finally approved. I wish I had known about online auto loan, a faster and simpler way of obtaining auto financing. Their extensive nationwide network of auto financing specialist can help you get loan approval even with not so perfect credit. In addition, online auto loan also provides the following advantages:

• Application is done by click of the mouse
• Approval within minutes
• Loan facility available for any car model and for both old and new car purchases

So what you waiting for? Apply for a Car Loan now and drive your dream car!

Filipino Expo in Qatar

For the first time, Filipino expo will be held in Qatar on October 9-11, 2008. Here is the article from The Peninsula:

The first-ever Filipino expo in Qatar, scheduled to be held in October, will provide a platform for companies to tap the growing Filipino market and bring together Filipinos in Qatar. The '1st Filexpo Qatar '08' is being brought to the country by ABS-CBN Middle East's TFC World Tours.

The expo, to be held from October 9 to 11, is aimed at helping Philippine and Qatar-based companies utilise opportunities in the Filipino market and offering Overseas Filipino Workers products, services and opportunities in the Philippines and the Gulf. Continue reading here...


I have high hopes for this Expo will be a lot better than the International Expo held in January of this year because I know that Filipinos/Filipino companies are capable of producing high quality products/services. I also hope that this event will give Filipinos the oppurtunity to show the best about Philippines.

I feel bad that Walter and I will out of the country during this event and will be arriving in the morning of October 11th only. But I'll try my best to attend this event on October 11th to support the Filipino companies joining the expo. I am also looking forward to watch Kamikazee's concert on the night of October 11th. I enjoyed their concert last February - Jay rocks!

See yah all!

It's Freakin' Hot and Humid!

Today, I went out in the middle of the day to get a bank statement. The bank is just a short walk from my Office building but man, it's freakin' hot and humid! It's already middle of September and the peak of summer season is over but the heat is still terrible - so terrible I can't even find the appropriate to describe it.

How's the weather today in your place/city?

Pinoy Photography: Doha Pinoy Shooters Club (DPSC)

Photo by: Marky

Early this year, Walter and I joined the Pinoy Photography Club in Doha, Qatar. The club is officially called Doha Pinoy Shooters Club or DPSC and is recognized by the Philippine Embassy in Qatar. The Club members are composed of professional and amateur (also wanna-be like me) photographers. The club is accepting membership all year round. Basic requirements are:

- Must be a Filipino currently based in Doha, Qatar.
- Has a camera with manual controls (SLR is not a requirement).
- Membership fee.

For information and other inquiries: please e-mail pictolero[at]yahoo.com (replace [at] with @ sign) or leave a message at DPSC Multiply site.

Back to Blogging...

Okay, I am back after a long hiatus. I thought I'd finally give up blogging. One day, I just felt I don't want to blog anymore. I guess, sometimes, a person needs to a take a break to unwind and re-charge. I also took a two-week vacation in the Philippines last July and spent time with my family. Now that I'm all charged-up, I hope to be able to write interesting entries for my readers. So watch out and come back soon!

Ramadan Kareem!

Today is start of Ramadan Season. Remember not to eat, drink and smoke in public so as not to offend our Muslim brothers.

Check my related posts: Ramadan Starts Today and Ramadan Kareem.

Checklist for Residents/ Visitors Departing at Doha, Qatar International Airport

Here are some things I'd like to share to travellers/ residents/ visitors departing at Doha, Qatar International Airport.

1. If you are holding a Qatar work visa or if you came in business visa and you stayed in Qatar for at least one month, make sure you have valid exit permit. Your employer/ sponsor will secure the exit permit for you. An exit permit is valid for 7 seven days upon issue. Residents holding a family visa and those who came on visit/tourist visa do not need an exit permit.
2. Check from the MOI website if you have any traffic violation. According to the papers, residents with unsettled fines are not allowed to leave the country. If you have a traffic violation, you can pay the traffic fines in the Traffic Department or online through a credit card [check here].
3. Qatar airways (economy) passengers are allowed to check-in multiple luggage as long as the total weight do not exceed 50 kgs; however, each check-in luggage must be less than 32 kgs. Those travelling to US are allowed to check-in 2 bags per person up to 23 kgs each. The weight limit for carry-on is 7 kg but from experience, Qatar Airways allows up to 10 kgs. Qatar Airways Privilege Card holders are given additional weight-allowance depending on the membership status. For other airlines, check the baggage weight limit from your travel agents or directly from the airlines. Note that flying back to Qatar, only 20 kgs of check-in luggage is allowed. If you are coming from the US, you can check-in 2 bags per person up to 23 kgs each.
4. Check the current restrictions for carrying liquids and creams.
5. It is common that passengers are asked to remove shoes, shoes, belt, watch etc. during security screening. Consider wearing shoes that can be taken off easily and less accossories. Electronic gadgets like laptop and mobile phones are usually taken out of the bag so prepare them for security check.
6. If you are transiting in London, check the current restrictions in London Airport. Last time we had layover in London (June 2007), passengers are allowed to carry only one bag during the security check. If you have a carry-on and a laptop, you have to combine them in one bag.
7. Check the restrictions in your layover/destination country.
8. Check Qatarairways response to some FAQs.

Dunestock 2008

Dunestock 2008 (D0ha, Qatar) will be happening on April 18th! Checkout the details at http://www.dunestock.net/ and the list of performers.

Dunestock (in association with Doha Players) is an open air Music Festival held annually at the singing dunes of Qatar, featuring local expatriate bands and musicians. Everyone involved in organising Dunestock does it for free (including the performers) and all proceeds go to the Doha Players theatre rebuilding fund.

It's a family event providing the following facilities:- Large stage, professional lighting/sound, food stalls, bouncy castles, A/C WC facilities, over night camping area, first aid/merchandise tent, organised parking and 24 hour security. The stage faces a crescent shaped sand dune creating an amphitheatre effect. Psychedelic lighting projected onto the dunes after dark, and much much more.

Join Doha Pinoy Shooters Group!

Walter and I just joined Doha Pinoy Shooters group. It is a group formed by Pinoy residents in Doha who are interested in photography (newbie and experienced). The group has 73 members (current as of today) and still growing. There are also other nationalities who joined but majority of the members are Pinoys. By joining Doha Pinoy Shooters, we hope to learn from other members and be inspired by them. Actually, I'm just a wannabe. My husband is the one really interested in photography. If you are also interested to become a member, visit the Doha Pinoy Shooters Flickr page.

Photo Hunt - Twist(ed)

Come and join the hunt here.

A roundabout is a type of road junction at which traffic enters a one-way stream around a central island. In the United States it is technically called a modern roundabout, to emphasize the
distinction from the older, larger type of traffic circle.

This is called the Oryx Roundabout because of the Oryx on top of a TWISTED stand. There are many roundabouts here even on the main road and most of them are named based on what is built in the center of the roundabout or nearby building, office and shops. Some of the popular roundabouts here are named Sports, TV, Museum and Dhow Boat. Accordingly, these names were coined by the expats because there are really no official road and street names ten years ago.

Roundabouts work well in the past when the roads are less busy. Currently, many of the roundabouts along major thoroughfare have already been converted to traffic signals and in some, traffic signals were installed. It's crazy to drive around busy roundabouts during peak hours so even if it's a bit weird, traffic signal in the roundabouts are helpful to keep the traffic flow in order.

Renewing Car Registration in Qatar

It's renewal time for my car registration again. The steps are quite staright forward. If the car is less than three years old like mine, technical inspection is not required. Renewal may be done at the nearest Traffic Police Department in your area. The best time to go is always early in the morning.

Requirements for Renewal:
-Insurance
-Technical inspection certificate (for cars three years and older)
-Expired registration card (Istimara)
-QR 100 fee by NAPS or credit card

Steps:
1. Renew the insurance.
2. Bring the car to the technical inspection center. Read the step by step Procedure for Technical Inspection and the locations of inspection centers.
3. When the requirements are complete, go to the Traffic Police Department. Don't forget to get a number at the entrance.
4. When the number is called, processing takes less than 15-minutes if the requirements are complete.
5. Pay the QR 100 fee by NAPS or credit card. Cash are not accepted.
5. Make sure that you will be given a registration sticker for your car plates. I read from the newspapers in the past that cars without registration stickers will be penalized.

Delay in registration is sometimes experienced due to delay in technical inspection (i.e., when a problem is identified and repair is required). So be prepared and allocate ample time for technical inspection.

Hope this helps!


Related Blog:

The Long and Winding Road

Photo Hunt - Glass

Come and join the hunt here.

As much as possible, I would like to feature photos from Qatar. But since I do not have a Qatar photo for the GLASS theme, I am posting a photo from Oman, which is a neighbor country and additional two related photos from Paris, France.

1. Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Oman, 2. St. Chapelle, Paris, 3. Rose Window of Notre Dame de Paris

Created with fd's Flickr Toys.

The first photo is a stained GLASS found in Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Muscat, Oman, which is the only mosque (in the world, I believe) open for non-muslims and tourists. The Grand Mosque can accomodate up to 20,000 worshipper at one time. Its main prayer room has the largest hand-woven single piece Persian Carpet in the world measuring 60 meters x 70 meters. In addition, this mosque has the biggest chandelier in the world, weighing 8.5 tons.

The second photo is the stained GLASS at the upper chapel of Sainte-Chapelle in Paris while the third photo is the stained GLASS Rose Window of Notre Dame de Paris.

More Photos:

Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque Muscat

Paris, France

Photo Hunt: High

Come and join the hunt here.

The photo below was taken during our company outing in the desert. My colleagues were up HIGH on top of the Singing Dunes enjoying the view of the desert. The Singing Dunes in Doha, Qatar is one of the approximately 30 locations in the world where sound is naturally produced from the sand dunes.

The sound is decribed as similar to a loud, low-pitch, rumble, and it emanates from the crescent-shaped dunes. The sound emission accompanies a slumping or avalanching movement of the sand, usually triggered by wind passing over the dune or by someone walking near the crest.

On the left photo below, me and my husband were climbing to the top to join others up HIGH. On the right photo, you will notice the crescent shape (right) of the dunes. I have a three-part post about our picnic in the Singing Dunes with more photos and a video how the sound is produced. If you have time, please visit my blogs - Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3.

1. Climbing the Dunes, 2. Singing Dunes Doha, Qatar

Created with fd's Flickr Toys.

Air and Sea Cargo from Qatar to Philippines

I noticed that my site are getting hits because of the contact information of coriner cargo in one of my blogs. That gave me an idea to create this post. Actually, I just sent a balik-bayan box full of old clothes :) through sea cargo. I chose sea cargo because it has no weight limit although it will take at least 35 days to reach Manila from the time of loading in Qatar. Air Cargo will only take about 4-7 days but the cost is calculated by weight.

List of Cargo Company operating in Qatar that delivers to Philippines:

Note that these are posted for information purposes only and not as recommendation.

Conor Express cargo
Tel no. +974 4418453/ 4418196
Fax no. +974 4414219
e-mail: qconor1317@qatar.net.qa

Coriner Cargo
Tel no. +974 4411872

Cargo Net (Quezon Express)
Tel no. +974 4430974
Fax no. +974 4431389
e-mail: quezondoh@yahoo.com

Makati Express
Tel no. 4435461
Fax no. 4436854

U-Mac Express Cargo
Tel no. +974 441 0527/ 441 0593
e-mail: dicdoha@qatar.net.qa

Have you sent any balik-bayan box through any of these cargo companies? Why don't you share your experience through the comments?

How to apply for a tourist - visit visa in Qatar

This post is based on my own experience of applying a tourist visit visa for my brother who is still a MINOR and currently based in Kuwait. Visa regulations in Qatar may change from time to time and what's written here may be superseded by new regulations. Information on different types of visa to Qatar is available in MOI website. This post is only meant to share an experience and not a step by step guide for visa application.

Requirements for Application:

Sponsor
photocopy of sponsor's passport
photocopy of sponsor's resident permit
photocopy of sponsor's birth certificate, if the visitor is parent or sibling
photocopy of sponsor's marriage contract, if the sponsor is a married female

Update as of November 10, 2008:
Again, I applied a tourist visit visa for my brother and in addition to the above requirements, I was requried to submit a photocopy of of my husband's passport and Resident Permit and Qatar ID. I'm guessing this is because my visa is sponsored by my husband. Now, I'm not sure if there's any additional requirements if the sponsor is holding a work/resident permit.

Visitor
photocopy of visitor's passport
photocopy of visitor's birth certificate if visitor is child or sibling of sponsor
photocopy of visitor's marriage contract, if visitor is a married female

*Original NSO-certified documents of the sponsor must be available for verifcation. No need to be certified by the Philippine Embassy. The birth and marriage certificates is required to establish the relationship between the sponsor and the visitor. While not required, I still provided a salary letter and no-objection-certificate (NOC) to the Immigration.

Application Process:

1. Go to the Immigration Office in the Airport. The best time to go is early in the morning. It is open starting 6 AM.

2. Fill out the application form. The form is already translated in English and English answers are acceptable.

3. Fall in line for approval. Female cutting the line are normally tolerated.

4. The Immigration Officer can approve, deny, require more information or documents or sometimes applicants are asked to seek the approval of the Captain.

5. If approved, pay at the cashier. Note that cash are not accepted. Use a debit or credit card. The cashier will issue a receipt with the visa number. The visa may be downloaded from the MOI website. If more additional information is required, complete the requirements and get approval. If the application is denied, better luck next time. Sometimes, the applicant is informed of the reason for denial.

Definition of immediate relative:

Immediate relative means mother, father, wife and children. Brothers and sisters are also considered immediate relative; however, from previous experience of some people, visa sporsorship for siblings are difficult to obtain although visa sponsorship for a sister may have a good chance of approval than visa sponsorship for a brother especially those 18 years old and above.

Validity of tourist visit visa:

A tourist-visit visa is essentially a tourist visa. It is valid for 14 days and may be extended for another 14 days. If the visitor intends to stay longer than 28 days, family visit visa, which can be extended up to six months should be applied. However, the requirements may be different.

Visa Fee:

QR 100 upon application (as of Nov. 10, 2008)
QR 200 for the 14-day extension

Possible Reasons for Denial or Delay in Processing:

While waiting in line, I overheard some of the reasons for visa denial/ delay in processing.

- One guy is applying visa for daughter-in-law and grandchildren who live in Abu Dhabi with his son. The application was denied because the SON is NOT going to Doha.

- One Filipina appying visa for her niece. A NIECE is NOT an immediate relative.

- One guy applying visa for his son and for some reason, in their country, father and son have different surname - I think the father's name, becomes the son's surname. He was asked to go to the Captain for the application approval.

- I was asked to present my marriage contract to cross-check my maiden name with my brother's name. Marriage contract is being required for female sponsors who are married.

Other Requirements:

If the visitor is coming from the Philippines,. the visa has to be authenticated by the Qatar Embassy in Manila. Authentication are now done through courier (current as of October 2008 - please call the Qatar Embassy in Manila for further info).

Requirements for visa authentication:

-Affidavit of Support from the sposor authenticated by Philipiine Embassy in Doha. NOC letter is required for affidafit of support.

-Must pass medical examination from accredited medical centers of Qatar Embassy in Manila. (As of October 2008 - medical examination is not required anymore for tourists, business and visit visa holders)

I cannot much give much info on this as I did not undergo this process. Please contact Qatar Embassy in Manila for futher information. Check DFA website for Qatar Embassy address and contact number.

Please note:

The above experience is only for tourist-visit visa sponsored by immediate relative.

Atilla's Mongolian Grill

My husband seldom drive for me so when he offered this morning, I gladly accepted. I went to a local shop for a quick errand. After I doing my thing, my husband asked if I want to grab a bite. For a moment, we thought of a place which we haven't tried yet. It turned out we're both thinking of Villagio Mall. Sometime ago, we wanted to try the Mongolian Grill in their food court but unfortunately, they ran out of LPG on that day.

Off we went to Attilla's Mongolian Grill at the food court of Villagio Mall. We decided to order Mongolian Grill COMBO (Chicken, Meat, Seafood). The customers can create their own mix from four types of ingredients.

1. Seafood/Meat/Chicken
2. Vegetables
3. Noodles
4. Sauce

For each type, a bowl of specific size is filled with the selection of ingridients by the customers.



We also ordered Shrimp Tempura and California Maki. The Tempura and Mongolian Grill came with steamed white rice and we got a complimentary small cup of soda for each meal. The service was quick, as expected in any fast-food.

Frankly, I was a bit disappointed with the Mongolian Grill as it was too salty for my taste buds. I'm not sure if the mixture of different sauces affected the overall taste. The california maki had avocado instead of mango. Not bad, except the maki seemed dry. The tempura was okay. The shrimp was brined so it had the crunchy feel for every bite. However, the sauce I'm sure is not a tempura sauce. I think, it's just a plain soy sauce.

Overall, the experience is not that bad but I wouldn't rave about it either. I'm not sure I'd go back. For QR 110, I think I can prepare a really good home-made meal that can feed four to five people.

Photo Hunt: Metal

Grab the Scavenger Hunt code.

Photo Theme. Join the blogroll.

Visit participants.

I'm back after a long hiatus. I used to publish my Photo Hunt posts at The Fickle Minded; but from now on, I will start publishing my entries in this blog. In addition, I will try as much as possible to post pictures from Qatar in order to align with the blog's theme. Please leave your comment and the link to your Photo Hunt post so I can also visit your blog.

This is the Khalifa Stadium, the main venue for the 2006 Doha Asian Games. This Stadium was originally built in 1976 and was upgraded prior to the 2006 Asian Games, increasing the capcity from 20,000 to 50,000 people. As you can see, a large percentage of the Stadium is made of METAL.

Purefoods and CDO Products in Doha Qatar

I only see a red hotdog in the Philippines. And of course, while more expensive than other brands, Purefoods Tender Juicy Hotdogs is the favorite of Filipino household. I was told that Tender Juicy (beef and chicken) is already available in the Souq. I went to the Souq last week to buy some but Filipino stores already run out of stocks. The next shipment is expected to arrive in a month or so.

On another note, I discovered that CDO products are already available in Filipino Stores. I bought 1 kilo of Holiday Binggo jumbo hotdog (QR 15), chicken longaniza (QR 8), beef longanisa (QR 8) and burger patties. Other CDO products such as ground beef, premium beef tapa, frozen corned beef are also available.

Binggo is not that good but for only QR 15 per kilo, I think you get what you paid for. I heard from friends that kids like them because they are red. The chicken longanisa is a little bit sweet but passable. I am yet to cook the beef longanisa and burger patties so I can't give my verdict.

It’s nice to have these new additions to Filipino food products available in Qatar. I hope that more products will come in the future.

Disclaimer: This is not a paid post.

Rugs from Homes R Us

I got these nice rugs/ bath mat with cute designs from Homes R Us. I bought several of these and some plain ones. Here's a tip: If you find something that you like and you really need them, don't think twice, buy that item and buy enough for your needs because chances are you'll never find that item/design again or if that item is a regular in a certain shop, it will take ages before another shipment comes.

These rugs are also reasonably priced at Qr 15 - QR 45 depending on the size, thickness and design. They are cute, aren't they?




Home R Us is located in Hyatt Plaza beside Villagio Mall.

Disclaimer: This is not a paid post

Easter Treat

I found these chocolates in colorful Easter-themed wrapper from SHOP RITE SUPERMARKET along Airport Road. There are different brands and varieties available - mostly egg-shaped at varying sizes. I thought it would be nice to have them in our candy bowl for the Easter season so I bought two packs and I chose the bunny and egg design. You might also find these in MEGA MART, sister-store of SHOP RITE.

Repair of Punctured Tires

When one of my tires got punctured, I was clueless how to get it fixed. In the Philippines, punctured tires are brought to a vulcanizing shop, which is not available in Qatar. My husband and my brother suggested to replace it with a new one but I was not convinced I need to buy a new one. I asked around what can be done - if my tires can still be fixed and where. I was told to go to the tire shops in Salwa Road and repair will only take ten minutes or so. But Salwa Road is out of my way so I kept delaying the repair plus I really want to go during my free time because even if the actual work is only 10 minutes, there might be a lot of customers in line for other services.

Then, I realized there's a tire shop near my place located beside Shop Rite Supermarket in Airport Rd. When I finally went there, the repair took less than ten minutes and I was charged only Qr 15. *Whew!* They removed the screw and injected a pugging material and it's done! To think, I've been procrastinating for weeks already!

So if ever your tires is punctured, just go to the nearest tire shop in your area!

Car Crashed in Al Muftah Center Al Sadd

On the night of March 9th, a car crashed in Al Muftah Center showroom in Al Sadd. By the time, I passed-by the site of accident, the car is already out of the actual crash site but the March 10 issue of Gulf-times has a photo showing the car inside the shop. Luckily, nobody was hurt and the Filipina manning the area was able run for her safety.

I am still puzzled how the crash happened. The showroom is eight steps above the ground. Meaning, the car must be really powerful and moving very fast to be able to drive up eight steps. Seems like an action film!

Doha 7th Cultural Festival Schedule

The Doha 7th Cultural Festival is currently on-going and will run until Thursday, March 6, 2008. Many countries participated in the festival through exhibits, dance and costume show, and other cultural activities. The Phillippines participated by staging The Little Mermaid show. Sadly, The Little Mermaid show does not represent any Philippine culture at all. I still want to watch it though. Today will be the last day for Little Mermaid so if you want to catch it, this day will be your last chance.

For other shows and activities, here is the schedule.

See You at the Pinoy Rock Concert!

Kabayan, kitakits bukas!

Aladdin Kingdom @ 7 pm...

Multi-Level Parking at Grand Hamad Ave. Bank Strip

In case, you haven't heard/ seen yet, there is already a multi-level parking in Grand Hamad Avenue behind the bank strip (HSBC side). There are two buildings. If you make a turn from Grand Hamad and facing the multi-level parking, the one on the right side is dedicated to bank staff. The one on the left may be used by bank clients.

I discovered last time I went to Grand Hamad branch of HSBC that HSBC clients can park on that new building. HSBC have slots in the fourth floor. As you enter the building, tell the security that you are HSBC client and he will give you a parking ticket and direct you to fourth floor. That ticket should be validated by the bank (in my case HSBC) and surrendered to the security upon exit. Now, I'm not sure if all the banks along the strip have a slot there and if the public can also use the parking space.

I hope that more multi-level parking areas will be built in strategic sites.

Inauguration of the First Catholic Church in Qatar

The inauguration and blessing of the first Catholic Church in Qatar will be on March 15, 2008. Mark your calendars and see you there!

Some links you may want to visit...

My Notions and Emotions blog about the first catholic church in Doha
Qatar's first Christian church sparks bitter debate

Usapang Pinoy Every Saturday at 6PM (Doha Time)

Dr. Joy Barredo is my former professor in DLSU. I happen to meet her at Reyna Elena dot com, the blog of the Queen of Vaklingham Palace and the ultimate Social Climbing mentor. It was such a small world! Dr. Barredo is now living in Norwich, UK, and currently hosting Usapang Pinoy, which airs at Future Radio, every Saturday at 6pm Doha time. You can listen to her through the listen online link at Future Radio website. Join her and send online messages during the show through the message link also at Future Radio website.

Dr. Joy also maintains the following blog:

A Pinay in UK

Your Love Coach

The Goddess in You

Norwich Daily Photo

Don't forget. Usapang Pinoy at Future Radio every Saturday at 2 pm (GMT) and 5pm Doha time (GMT +3).

Qatar Total Open Related Sites

I was hoping to watch the finals but we don't have a ticket and my husband seems not interested because of the gusty winds that Doha is currently experiencing. The tickets are free but I'm not sure how to source it. Last time, we were lucky to get tickets from my husband's colleague whose wife works in the Qatar Tennis Federation. Meanwhile, here are some links you might be interested to visit.

Life on the Spot's blog Entry of Qatar Total Open
Life on the Spot's Photos of Qatar Total Open

Tournament may be over for injured Ana
Seeded stars blown away by Qatar wind
Injury ends Ivanovic's Doha bid

Did you have the chance to watch this year's Qatar Total Open?

Happy Heart's Day!

Ours is quiet like the previous years. Valentine's Day is not celebrated here except by some westerners and Filipinos. No plans, nothing...but we're going to the singing dunes tomorrow with my colleagues. Nope, it's not a post-Valentine date, it's a company outing.

I watched "Pretty Woman" earlier from one of the cable channels. Such a romantic movie. I love it!

How's your Valentine's Day celebration?

News Clip: February 14, 2008

Interesting news today:

Doha and Abu Dhabi bridge could cost $13B

Smart ID Cards Soon For Expat

Sharjah Ban on Mannequins

Online Payments for Traffic Violations

I wish I don't have to pay any traffic fines but having the option to pay online is a welcome development. It's not necessary anymore to go to the Traffic Department to pay for traffic fines.

How does it work? Simply visit the MOI website, and click the Traffic Violation button and then, Settlement of Fines. You will be asked to enter Qatar ID number or Vehicle License Plate or Establishment ID. The list of violations will show-up and there is option to choose which fines to pay (in case of multiple violations). Enter credit card details and the payment will be processed. Within seconds after payment, the violation records will be updated.

For the record, this is my first and so far my only traffic violation after more than three years of driving here. I am an obedient driver, I follow traffic rules, I don't drive beyond the speed limit and I always park my car in the proper parking area except on the day that I got a parking ticket. Such a bad day. It costed about US$55 although it is cheaper compared to speeding and beating the red light.

Check your traffic fine before leaving. Any person with unpaid traffic fine will not be allowed to exit the country unless the fine is settled. To avoid hassles at the airport, be sure to pay your traffic fine.


Related articles:

Passengers told to pay fine before flying

The Robot Zoo in Doha, Qatar

For the first time in the Middle East, the award winning touring exhibition, "The Robot Zoo" is currently in Doha. Frankly, it's the first time I've heard of Robot Zoo. It seems interesting specially for kids.

The larger than life animated robots will include a chameleon, rhinoceros, a giant squid with 18-ft tentacles, platypus, housefly with 10-ft wing spread, grasshopper, bat and giraffe. According to the papers, the machinery in the robot animals simulates the body parts of their real-life counterparts. In the robot animals, muscles become pistons, intestines become filtering pipes and brains become computers.

I am very interested in this exhibit. We're definitely going before they leave Qatar.

Venue: Doha Corniche.

Timings:
Weekdays - 8am to 8 pm for schools and genral public.
Friday - 2 pm to 8 pm for the general public

Tickets are priced at QR5 per person.
School groups are complimentary subject to prior confirmed booking.
Call 6681988 to book a tour.

The money generated from the ticket sales will be donated to a specialized children's care centre in Qatar.


Related articles:

Robot Zoo: "get up close and personal"

Doha Players "The King and I"

The Doha Players will perform the popular Rogers & Hammerstein musical "The King and I" from 5th to 8th March at the College of the North Atlantic - Qatar, Duhail Campus, Building No. 1.

Performance Dates:

Wed 5th March, 7pm
Thur 6th March, 7pm
Fri 7th March, 2.30 & 7pm
Sat 8th March, 2.30 & 7pm

Tickets will be on sale from the following outlets, please note the date that sales commence.

THE INTERNATIONAL CENTRE FOR MUSIC - On Sale from Saturday 9th Feb
39 Ahmed Bin Hanbal Street
(behind Lulu on D-Ring Road)
Near The Mall

Opening Times:
Saturday 11am to 8pm
Sunday to Wednesday - 1.30pm to 8pm
Thursday & Friday - CLOSED

MUSIC MASTER shop in Landmark Mall - On sale from Tuesday 12th Feb(opposite The Body Shop)

Open 10am to 10pm
Ticket Price: Adults Qrs70,
Children/Students Qrs30
Tel. 4474911 or 5755102 (8am to 1pm Sunday to Thursday ONLY)http://www.dohaplayers.com/

SYNOPSIS:
It is 1862 and The King of Siam, in his attempt to bring Western culture to his country, engages Anna Leonowens to teach his sixty-seven children. After Anna and the children become acquainted with each other, a unique bond of affection develops between teacher and pupils.However a crisis is developing in Siam. An agent in Singapore has discovered letters to the British describing the King of Siam as a barbarian and suggesting that Siam be made a protectorate. This information upsets Anna to no end, for despite her differences with the King, she has come to admire him and cannot tolerate his being called a barbarian. When the King tells her of his political difficulties and advises her that Sir Edward Ramsey and other high-ranking English men and women are coming to visit Siam and judge for themselves, Anna suggests that they be entertained in grand style with a European dinner and ball, and with all the Siamese princes and princesses wearing European dress. The visiting English are entertained with a ballet, "The Small House of Uncle Thomas," in which Uncle Tom's Cabin is translated in terms of the Siamese dance. The visit is a huge success: Sir Edward needs no further proof that he is dealing here with cultured and sensitive people. Both Anna and the King are exhilarated by the success of their efforts.

You really shouldn't miss this wonderful musical. There is a cast of around 45 children and 55 adults and you'll be dazzled by the spectacular costumes.

The Ultimate Pinoy Rock Concert!

We missed the Rakrakan concert in Qatar last October 2007 and we skipped the Rakrakan Overload in Dubai last December 2007 in favor of a trip to Amazing Oman, which turned out to be a great escape. I guess things happen for a reason. Now, a bigger concert will be held in Doha featuring Parokya ni Edgar, Pupil (Ely Buendia), Kamikazee, Francis Magalona and Gloc 9.

Date: 29 February 2008
Venue: Aladdin Kingdom
Time: 7 pm onwards
Ticket Price: QR 100
FREE Shuttle Service

Ticket Outlets:All Pizza Inn outlets
Infinity Events Group: 4369493, 4369228, 4369249
Ms. Cristina: Mob 6904730
Mr. Froiland: 5798304
Mr. Bong Mob 6573885
Coriner Cargo: 4418196
Conor Cargo: 4411872
Puerto Galera Restaurant: 4354217
La Rochelle Restaurant: 4435073
PSD-PTA Ms. Mona: 5389190
Hyatt Plaza Food Court: 4697665, 4582362
Abu Hamour Petrol Station: 4692842, 4692831
Al Kharatiyat: 4783357, 4783019
West Bay Petrol Station: 4835293
New Rayyan: 4817576, 4817178
Al Meera Mansoura: 4413596, 4310358

Mark your calendars and see you there!!!

Welcome!

Another blog again? I can't even update my other blogs. Yeah...yeah...How is this different from my personal blog, The Fickle Minded? While my personal blog is also about my life in Qatar, this blog will focus more on events and happenings in Qatar and other localized topics. Through this blog, I hope to be able to share very good and useful information to everyone living in Qatar particularly the Filipino community. Enjoy reading!