Kurt Vonnegut : Slaughterhouse Five - book review

I do not usually read books on WWII . It is the hobby of my father .I grew up surrounded by those books -photo albums and for years i believed that I knew everything about the horror of that era .
Only when before graduating at secondary school I learned that my father nearly frozen to death in a basement where he had to spend days during the cold winter of 1945 while his village was cluster bombed by the Royal British Air Force .He was six years old then .From that story I knew that not only Jews and Russians were the victims during the war but also Hungarian civilian people died .Somehow they forgot to teach that at school .
We were massively brainwashed and we did not care much about the German civilian victim's stories .They started the war after all .
Only lately I heard some hints about the unfair attack on Dresden .I thought that it was like my father's village -a simple carpet bombing .
So I read the book of Kurt Vonnegut because I wished to know what it was like . Kurt Vonnegut was there .He was an American soldier a prisoner of war . Humiliated and forced to work by the Germans nearly bombed to death by his own people .His personal account interested me much.
It was an interesting reading . It told the story of Billy Pilgrim the young optimetrist student who was captured by the Germans within the first week he landed in Europe .
Billy was dying though survived and through his visions and dreams we could learn more about his past and his future .The tragedy of that beautiful city wounded his soul for life .He escaped to the aliens for comfort . Just to know that time is our four dimension and death is not so terrible if we understand the different time perception of those little green men .
Otherwise the truth about Dresden bombing is too horrible with our Earthling perception of time to be able to live with its memory .It was an open city . Strategically nothing important .Under the protection of Red Cross .Undefended .Full of refugees -as it seemed to be the only safe place in Germany .The war was about its end .
Then out of the blue sky came the planes and attacked the city .Allied forces .First the traditional cluster bombing .Which was bad but most people would have survived that if there was not a second bombing of burning materials which turned the shallow shelters into burning catacombs .Those people who managed to get out from there were rushing to the river which was burning as well .Those who escaped to the squares or public parks got special bombs .Fire tornadoes lifted up people .They burnt into ashes or melted into liquid substance .
Out of 35 thousand buildings only 7000 remain .Nobody knows exactly how many people died as the town was full of refugees . They estimate that more than a million people were residing there .
The author survived only because he was accommodated at a slaughterhouse which had a really deep meat cellar .
They day after the bombing when they came out of their shelters to get some food and water the allied forces were flying so low that they were able to see that some people still alive and were shooting on them by machine guns or dropped on them smaller bombs .
After all the author does not think that all this attack was designed by evil people -just ignorant .They just wanted to hasten the end of the war .
These remarks made me feel that the book was censored . Kurt Vonnegut had a letter published after his death in which he called the Dresden attack obscene brutality
Kurt Vonnegut is easy to read .Humanism is radiating from every page.
He claims that 135 thousand people died .Some claims 25 thousand only . The Russians used to speak about 500 thousand victims. If we see that how big percentage of the buildings were destroyed we have to suppose that similar percentage of people perished as well . The city was home to 600 thousand people and jammed with refugees .But nobody knows how many were there at that inferno .
This was the biggest massacre in Europe .
And it is still not taught at schools .It is not commemorated widely .
Dropping bombs on civilians and refugees is still in fashion not so far from Europe . . .
So it goes .

Slaughterhouse Art Poster by curious_inkling
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A beautiful lotus mandala carved into a watermelon . Typical centerpiece at parties around here .Indian style fruit sculpture in Doha .

I have been living in Qatar for a while and I remember well - those orange cabs . Those folks with big beard and national wear - never telling anything to you -but always taking you to the place where you want to go .. and never cheating you ...

Well nowadays taxi drivers have nice uniform and no beards but they do not know the city well .The other day I came across a driver from Burma who did not know where Villaggio mall was .

Even worse he did not turn when I told him to do so this way he made a tour of Doha with me which resulted in very high bill .

apparently karwa is not training the drivers before letting them work - but why I have to pay for that ? i find it very unfair .

but all these things are not new ... but what is really shocking for me is that last month I stumbled upon a lots of scammy drivers ...every three ..
their way was
1 not switching on the meter - then asking for a sum double than it should be
2 telling that they have no change ( they can not find 4 rials change )
3taking the money not giving back anything and telling that god will bless me ... I think last time a gypsy woman said me so in transylvania when buying forest fruits from her i studpily paid with a a bank note...

I do not think that Qatar should sink to this level .
Nowadays I prepare well with small change in advance against these "allah karim mam" scammers

I give tip with pleasure when I am satisfied .It is usually 15 % . But I get furious when they want to dictate ...
the other day the driver did not turn where I told him to do so ... then I told him three times to turn at the next street - then he yelled at me " no speaking " you speaking once' enough ... when I told him that I m the customer then he answered yes - you customer and you speak once ..he told me with such a male pride that I really felt like giving him a punch
someone really should inform these guys about acceptable manners in qatar

I was invited to a reception . The catering service was provided by the Diplomatic Club .We had some crudites as appetizer . There was a nice but not too big selection of salads as entree . Then we had to wait a lot for the sishtaouk and the kofta - as it was a self service we had to queue for twenty minutes or more ... this was my only concern - somehow they should have organized better this part . Or it might be not their fault at all - but my hosts .
The main dishes were also excellent- though not the number one in Doha ( i know a cheap Turkish eatery where they make better sishtaouk) - they came with samosas and grilled potatoes and vegetables . I tried their tiramisu cake - it was a real gourmet taste with strong coffee flavor . The assorted fruit cake was not my favorite one.It tasted like a cheap supermarket cake .
The drinks were the usual ones - but no fantasy ...orange juice ,sodas ,mineral water .
It is possible to make great cocktails without alcohol as well ...
The waiters and waitresses were wonderful . Helpful ,intelligent but not servile .
That is what I miss at times in Doha . Many times you can meet here unskilled people serving you ... either they are arrogant or servile ... the art of serving with dignity should be taught - I think .
I remember once a Chinese waiter helped me with the kids and bags at a cafe in Doha . When we were already outside the cafe he bowed in front of me at a deep angle .Such things frighten me and I had not returned the place for longtime though it is my number one cafe in Doha .
People coming from far eastern countries should be informed about that bowing is not seen as a form of respect here .Generally one should not bow in front of anybody else than God - according to the Quran's teachings .I know people who do not let their kids go to karate club for this reason .They object the usual bow in front of the karate master .
The main supervisor at the reception arranged for us seats at once as he saw I was standing with a sleeping toddler in my arms . Though it was a standing reception - there were few tables as well ... I liked what he did and how he did it very much ...

Sword dance of Qatar
original video by me

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Warm up Ladies !

Doha Mini Marathon for ladies only is coming !
20th february( next saturday)
Aspire zone 10 am
4 km jogging race

Learn more abou the event

14th February
Valentine Day in the western world
Tiger year's first day in China
Buso jaras - end of the winter festivities in Hungary !
What a coincidence !

Rydges Hotel in Doha Pulled down


Though I have never been there it was very familiar building for me .. it was not far from our home and i could see it from the window ....it looked a building in good condition ...but it is said to have been built in wrong location .. so it was bought from the owner and demolished ...I have never seen something like that ...our pride is rather to preserve the buildings in Hungary ...

I missed the Doha Food festival

I feel really sorry that I missed this festival . The first one in the city . All the restaurants came together and were offering their dishes for a value price . The most expensive dish was only 15 riyal( less than $5) - and it means five star hotels cuisine .The cheapest ones were 5 riyal - and i guess a lots of tasty things among them . The thing that I like in Doha that everyone can find a restaurant whatever his means are . The inexpensive restaurants offer many times really good dishes .My husband brings meals from such eateries at times and I remember an Indian egg plant dish for breakfast and a kind of grilled chicken pieces with wonderful bread from a Turkish eatery .

Numbers

121 accidents in Qatar on a single day due to a sand storm with wind of 24 knots

14C degrees minimum temperature = winter in Qatar

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You might not find always the souvenir you like in Qatar's gift shops .In this case you can browse my designs .Fridge magnets are always seen and practical gifts .
Please note : if you order it to your address in Qatar then you should wait at least 4 -5 weeks until it arrives .

See tricks of online shopping in Qatar

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Qatari woman at the taxi station

It was at Villaggio Mall 's taxi station ... there were around three families waiting ... There was a queue . Then came up a Qatari(looking) woman -she stood right to the first place to get the first taxi coming ... The Indian supervisor sent her to the last place - taboor -he said ... the woman did not want to accept ... she could not understand how this Indian guy is sending her to the last place ... after all she is Qatari ...
But the supervisor was firm and sent her to wait ....
I could see through her veil how much she felt humiliated ... she had to wait like a foreigner ..she tried to call her family - but nobody had time .... then she just stood there staring bitterly into the dark parking space ... She must have been thinking about the golden age of Qatar when the Hindi guys served them first and would not dare to tell them taboor...Things have changed .....

Buffet breakfast - Le Notre , Villaggio Mall

Though I was not fascinated by the lunch we had there a year ago - I decided then to try their breakfast . The buffet table's selection were not as big as I expected ...though there were a large selection of cakes - somehow this was not exactly the thing I wished to have for my breakfast .I expected a lots of bakery products , some cereals - but we foud some little croissants and that was all . We were almost disappointed and took some grilled frankfurters and some salads with tiny sandwiches when it turned out that some parts of the breakfast are served for you as it is freshly prepared . In a bowl they served the rolls and bread - which were excellent ... their American coffee was also very good . The selection of drink is only tea or coffee . I expected some freshly made orange juice - but such thing was not included in the price . They served for as an omlette -which was rather a plain thing ,falafel -wonderful and the freshly made fatira stuffed with cheese or vegetables were also five star dish .
As you can notice it was a blend of Arabic and continental morning dishes ...
After all it was not bad - especially if you know what to expect ...The place was half empty - some local families had breakfast there and some western looking ones .. The background music was the jazz hits from 1930's ...The waitresses really were waiting , standing by to take away the plates or to serve you .
You pay 59 QR for that + 12% service charges ...
As not too many places have buffet breakfast in Doha - this place can be called the number one buffet breakfast cafe here ...

Recently awarded design

5.5" x 8.5" stationery is great for all your baby shower invitations, birth announcement . Choose from five paper types and colors. Laser and inkjet compatible. Playful floral pattern with some retro feel . Decorative gift by Alma Wad . Customize it with your own words ,initials .

retro floral pattern by almawad
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Today's Best January 11, 2010

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Thai Smiles restaurant - Al Bida park

at long last a restaurant at Al Bida park . that was my first thought when I saw Thai Smiles near the mosque of the park .
It is a small place but very much above the standard of other eateries in the park. The interior decor is just my cup of tea , Burgundy walls with some golden floral motifs - it is fine art deco . The waitress is friendly and helpful . The noodles soup is fresh full of things that you would expect from a soup ... spring rolls were OK .We must come back one day to try their main dishes .. It has got excellent reviews and the location is wonderful with the park all around .Just the perfect thing for families with kids .
My best wishes to the staff .

I. Phone : 431 6466

II. Mobile : 696 6209

numbers

Studies have found that reading level of children in the Arab region is weak, with a child spending only an average of six minutes annually to read books beyond curriculum.

Vintage Child Reading by YesterdayCafe
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My Impressions Doha Book Fair

Lots of books -most of them in Arabic .
Lots of books in English too .
But nothing made me really excited ...

Scientologists are selling their stuff . .. That made me sick ...

French corner ... some books ... not very interesting ... there was a very thin book called " the Great Book of Arabian Inventions " - it was a pure insult in this form ...

And the best of all : A French woman was offering some French chocolates from a box to anybody who had Qatari look ! I was watching her for a while ...

"Liberty, equality, fraternity "



really - this motto was not advertised ...

pink pastel by almawad
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Qatar's National Day
It has been the third year that it was celebrated on 18th December . Before it was at the beginning of September . Then suddenly it was shifted to this date .
A thing that could not really happen in Hungary - I guess .
Seeing the rehearsal was a pure joy : we went to play with the kids to Al-Bida park and saw the show of old boats . Those sailing boats which had been used here for centuries crossed the bay slowly with stylish dignity .There had been around 800 ships in Doha harbour 50 years ago - fishermen's boat ,pearl divers their staff 's boat , merchants' boats and so on ..
After the boat show we could see some 50 camels and riders strolling along the destroyed area of Rumeila district ...Qatar zaman
It was just rehearsal ... No wonder that
we had great expectations for the day itself .Vodaphone and and iloveqatar organized programs in the Aspire park which seemed to be fun ... they promised bouncing castles , sparklers , face painting , dance ,musicians , free local food between 10am -6 pm.
It was raining - but we still went there around 2 pm - there were some bouncing castles that was true - but no sparklers , no face paintings , no dance ,no music ... not even a Qatari flag for the kids , no festive atmosphere ...just crowdy bouncing castles ... and rain .
It was very disappointing ... for some it was even worse ....just read this thread

I think that next year I will make do with the rehearsal ....

Christmas stories from my childhood - my auntie's house

Pretty Vintage Miss by almawad
 We started a new life with my family in a new town . After my father got a better position we lived a more comfortable life than before  but we were not happy at all . In our previous dwelling place everything looked better  and my elder brother and I wished to move back . It was not possible and we had to find to good point in the town . It was not easy ! It had only a few things that we liked and one of those was the house of my auntie ...

Every thing used to be so beautiful at my auntie's house . High ceilings , odd geometric patterned curtains ,fine ceramics ,gorgeous old furniture ... as all the house had been covered by some golden dust of a bygone era .As a little girl I did not know words and notions like art-deco or bourgeois or artistic sense .
Their Christmas tree was so beautiful too - full of interesting decoration which were not available at shops at that time ... her cakes were traditional delicacies spiced up with original ideas . I had always felt that to be with them at Christmas was a great privilege .Our parents were chatting after lunch and we were merrily merrily playing ....Firmly , I believed that all those beauty and charm in their house was due to the fact that they had only one child and that is how they could afford it ! And   I happened  to feel   jealous  and wished our home was filled with luxury and beauty like that !

 But one year - instead of the usual cheer - we found that bad mood reigned in their home when we arrived on Christmas Day  .My cousin did not want to come out and play with us.  He closed himself inside his bedroom . Under the tree there were the unopened gifts .He did not want to open them and refused to taste the wonderful lunch as well .

My auntie was sad .It was very embarrassing to hear her explanation : "Santa does not exit . We had to tell him . He had been longing for a little brother or sister for years and he has been writing letters to Santa to get one .Unfortunately it is not possible . "

When I first heard it I was very much surprised at the fact that he still believed in Santa. Then I remembered how nice that my parents never lied to us about this issue. They had always told us that this was just a game.

All that was sad but we were children . We did not understood the weight of their problem .We were merry as usual with my brothers .This one cheered up my auntie .We appreciated her Xmas lunch , admired her wonderfully decorated tree and were grateful for the presents .We went home sooner than usual .

Our flat was much smaller and furnished at an average level of the 1970's Hungary .There were two old paintings on the wall ,my mother had a porcelain dinner set for special occasions . That was all the luxury we had .Still all that made me very happy at that moment . It was then that I understood how great gift is to have brothers growing up with me !
________________________________

My auntie 's home is still lovely . I live far from her and can not go home for Xmas usually . Luckily their days and their Xmas is always merry - full of laughter and cheers. Their three grandchildren live near them and they make their days very special all the year around .



Read more Christmas Stories

It was nice weather at Messaid at Eid . Families were enjoying sunshine , large waves the sand ... What makes me scared is that nowhere a boat or any other thing to save lives though there are so many people there at every weekend ...
Beaches should have toilets as well for public safety reasons . And where are the beaches with ladies only hours ? It was more than two years ago that I read in the local news that there will be three beaches belonging to the municipalities ? Where are those beaches ? What takes so long ?
They need a fence around the beach , some toilets , some shade or a club house than that it is . They should hire someone to sell tickets , some security guard and some folk should take care of the safety of the swimmers .

It was a nice meeting for Doha Mum's Group . The Indonesian mums hosted a breakfast for the international group . It was held at Al Waab 2 compound 's beautiful and spacious club house .Babies had their own play room. It was really great . I wish we could always have such wonderful facilities !
Are you interested in joining an international Mum's Club in Doha ?
You can do it here

TODAY BEST AWARD FOR MY TIE DESIGN .Star shaped flowers all over the tie .Tiny patterns in cream color against brown background . Wearable fashion by Alma Wad . Great gift for Dad . Award winning design : Today's Best November 17, 2009 in zazzle.com( US site)

star flowers by almawad
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Visiting Doha Zoo

We were lucky enough to be able to feed the girraffes .















The ducks were in a hurry not to miss the feeding .










The Zebras were having dinner .

Nice designs for little boys

I went shopping yesterday. Some new clothes were needed for a little boy . Great part of the money was left in my pocket.I was completely astonished: skeletons, skulls, monsters - that is trendy nowadays. At least, they want us believe that it is so .
Message for the Designers: I do not want my child to wear the symbols of death and killing !
However,I like colorful fun, cute characters, animals, toys, transport ...
Is this too much to ask?

The Tribeca film festival in 2009 - review

Sunset in Doha Bay by almawad
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The Tribeca film festival really enchanted me .Also I must admit that I saw only one performance : a cartoon about a horse Assilia . The very special thing about it was that it was made in Hungary by an Iraqi -Hungarian director ,Al Zedi .
The way of watching the film was also magnificent .There was a huge screen on the Corniche - thousands of deckchair ... while we faced this cityscape by the sea -palm trees and skyscrapers - we were having some Middle Eastern stuffed cabbage sold by local women in tents around us .
Among the tents huge floral shaped retro style lamps were moving here and there ... there were tents in royal style to sit down and take a rest ....

I heard that the rest of the festival was huge success .. all performances were full of people hungry for films that have something to say ...

Yet the lack of public transport made me stay at home ...though I wished to watch very much other films as well ...

our little venice
Villaggio Mall ,DOHA

It is the number one shopping and entertainment centre in Doha . At weekends it is so crowdy though only families are allowed to enter here .What is so attractive here ? You enter and you get the impression of being in Venice there's a canal gondoles , the faux facade of the buildings ... then it is packed with European cafes , Paul - the French cafe ,Le notre , Columbus as well , Ristoretto Italian , cafe Vergano Italian etc. ... you . Besides the usual places that you would expect from a mall( ice rink cinema complex) there is a part which looks like a palace full of exclusive boutiques where you would not want to spend your hard earned money still it is nice to take a rest at the fountain at the center - or go to a VIP restroom where you are allowed even if you forgot your VIP card at home !

Visit my online shop . You can find bright colored neckties all the year around not only in summer !

Swimsuit shopping in October


Excuse me ! Where can I find the swimsuits ? I remember two years ago you had large selection !

No madame - it is winter -we do not have swimsuit for winter !

It is 38C outside .
What could we do ?WE bought some warm caps . They had really nice selection of that at Sana store .

Doha souq is on fire

When looking out of the window in the morning I saw black smoke emerging in front of us -around 1 km far from al Khaleej street ... then it turned out that it was in the souq Dera near Rawnaq shop ... the faulty A/C is said to have caused the problem and it is still out of control ... more than four hours after it started I still see the smoke but it is smaller

Update :the fire was put out after four hours fighting . Read about the shops which were gutted here .

SWINE FLU PREVENTION HOLIDAY


Schools did not reopen as scheduled last week . The local authorities decided to keep kids at home .People arrive here from all over the world . They might bring in the virus . One week is enough to see who is sick or who is not .
It seemed to me a wise decision . Parks were full of kids and parents .We all need sunshine = vitamin D . One of the best prevention !

French breakfast in Doha

Chocolat Chaud by parisbreakfast
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Places in Doha to have French Breakfast :PAUL Restaurant 4135508
located at villaggio mall and landmark


LeNotre-PAris4552111salwa road, al Imadi building ,Villaggio Mall, high end section

Swiss-Belhotel Café Mezz 4078888 , Doha Jaber Bin Mohammed Street, Old Slata

Bread and breakfast in Doha
the continental one ...

SUSHI MINTO
Avoiding the crowds during the Eid holidays is not easy in Doha.However the Japanese restaurant was nearly empty .It is a large area . I liked the retro interior with circles and oval shaped mirrors .The waitresses were wearing tie with sushi design on it !
I am not a sushi expert so I opted for a bento .It came in a medium sized box with a selection of sushis , mizo soup , noodles , green salad .It was nice for 55 rials .If you wish to select your lunch or dinner a la carte it is rather pricey but you can chose from a large variety of sushis . If you got QR 200 or more for a single dish then the Japanese chefs will make their dishes in front of you at the counter .
It is wise that they added some non -Japanese items to their menu .This way the kids found also something to their tastes !
A liter of water QR18 ,service 12 % .
It was a nice change !

got sushi by almawad
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Eid in Qatar 2009

Where to go ? What to do ?
Go to the desert at night

Eid Holiday expected date : 20 ,21 ,22 September

expected weather conditions :High : 38C - 39 C Low : at night 29 C- 30 C wind 14 -21 km/h


Escape the city and go on a worry-free adventure trip through the desert by Gulf Adventures. QR 550 per person. Minimum of at least 2 people. 6 people per vehicle. This includes a buffet dinner and an Arabian breakfast the following morning. For more info, call 422-1888 or visit www.gulf-adventures.com.

Pearl Island

Cultural and Art district ,exhibitions , henna tent ,cafes , shops

Al Sultan Beach Resort
Eid Al Fitr Package - Standard Room

Room rates QAR 1000 - 1100

Room rate includes Eid Lunch Buffet and breakfast.

Room facilities
Minibar, Shower, Bath, Safety Deposit Box, TV, Telephone, Air Conditioning, Bathroom Amenities, Toilet, Bathroom, Satellite TV, Cable TV
Hairdryer, Wake Up Service/Alarm Clock, Bathrobe, Seating Area
Max. persons: 2


Activities
Tennis Court, Fitness Centre, Jacuzzi, BBQ Facilities, Outdoor Swimming Pool

Beach Party at Hotel Mariott

Assi Al Hillani Live in Qatar

dinner party and a night full of music
Date: 09/23/2009
Venue: Dafna Hall, Sheraton Doha
QR 300 to QR 1,500 which include seated dinner and drinks.
For more information, call 537-5374 or 538-5384.


ABSOLUT Bollywood with DJ Aqeel & DJ NYK

Start Time:
Thursday, September 24, 2009 at 7:00pm
End Time:
Friday, September 25, 2009 at 2:00am
Location:
Doha Marriott Hotel Beach
Street:
Ras Abu Aboud
City/Town:
Ad Dawha, Qatar
Tickets (available from 10th September 2009):
IN ADVANCE:
VIP : Qrs. 200/-
Regular: Qrs. 150/-
Ladies: Qrs. 100/-

AT THE DOOR:
VIP : Qrs. 225/-
Regular: Qrs. 175/-
Ladies: Qrs. 125/-

Tickets available at:
Haji Ali - Family Food Center, Airport Road
Tandoor Express - City Center
Bombay Chowpatty - Airport Road
Maharaja Restaurant - Al Asmakh Street
Music Land - Family Food Center, Airport Road
Tandoor Express - Al Meera, Mansoora
Dnata Travel - Airport Road
Saqr Stores - City Center, Landmark Mall, Hyatt Plaza & Al Nasr. Street
NO AGE LIMIT ###

### SEPARATE AREA FOR UNDER 21's ###

NO MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED - NO ENTRY TO THE PARTY WITHOUT A VALID ID.

Dress Code: It's a beach party! What more do you want us to tell you?

For More Info call 7172731 / 5717447 / 7746007

Once upon a time there was a Hungarian woman who was living far from her country .(aka me) Living in Qatar she started to put her designs at a Californian based company's page to sell things(aka zazzle) . She got customers from remote places . The other day someone bought her necktie from New Zealand ...
Hungary in her heart , Qatar is the place where she creates , California where the idea becomes a true object and someone is enjoying it in New Zealand !

Typical Ramadan Lampard

Typical Ramadan Lampard
Photo taken on the Pearl Island

Do you take photos ?Why do not you join the Ramadan photo competition ?
Prizes seems to be very attractive ! Check out this !!

Iftar at Dunia restaurant Villaggio

Season of Iftar Dinners

Ramadan is here and everything seems to be about eating or not eating .Though harshly criticized by many - public eating during the fasting hours is still forbidden and punished by lashes .
When the sun sets the restaurants are full of hungry expats and locals .. this is the seasons of ifthar dinners .

It is a long meal .Two of us shared one meal and as we expected - it was too large for two of us .Finally the children who had had some junk food before helped us to finish it.It was an extra pleasure for me that they tried something new . We had this iftar at Dunia restaurant , Villagio .
here is what they served for 130 rials :
Hors d'oeuvre : Oven fresh home made khobz ,date (tamr) ,olives , labneh(cheese),
Entree : lentil Soup , hommos , fresh garden salad , oven fresh sambosas ,kebbe ,beef stew with pineseeds
Main course : mixed kebab with three colored rice
Dessert :Cold Rice Pudding with Date sauce

It was a fine dining out with excellent dishes , stylish ways of serving the food and very helpful waiters ...

Only the price of the water leaves some bad taste in the mouth ( water was not included )

read more review on this restaurant

SO Middle Eastern
The direction of Mekka is shown on the mirror of a hotel room in Doha .

Our Great Flat Renovation Experience

The floor of our flat had been sinking for three months when our landlady went on holiday . She ordered her Indian valet/driver to arrange all within a month . We were forced out of our flat( in a way that the rent was payed by us during the renovation) . We had to pack everything within a week and find a temporary accommodation while the floor would be done .
In vain my husband tried to persuade her about her duty to pay for us the accommodation . She was very upset about the request . " You get the flat very cheap from me " was her answer . Right. Her rent augmented only 300 % the last seven years we lived there . That is the landlord ethic in Qatar .
We were searching for a flat which is sublet for a month or two while the lodger is on holiday . We saw terrible things. Whole families living in 20 square metre "furnished appartement"= there were matresses on the ground .Laundry room , shed advertised and let as family accommodation ..

Finally we found that a cheap hotel would be better .WE found one run by Indians and were ready to move when my husband found a bit more expensive suite hotel . Everything was wonderful there - a complete furnished flat in retro style .We could not resist - my husband was offered a bargain by the boss . We payed in advance and enjoyed this temporary luxury. Everything was nice but the boss. He called my husband after two days : You must pay more because we just noticed that one of your child is over 18 years old .
After a heated debate my husband refused to pay more .. Then he threatened him " if your little kids destroy something you will have to pay for that " ... Welcome in Arabia ...
Once I read in an old book that the Arabian hospitality is the best in the whole world .The Hungarian traveler and orientalist Germanus Gyula who travelled all around the Arabian Peninsula seventy years ago wrote about that ... Everything is changing .. the old traditions are forgotten ... quick profit and money is more important nowadays ...

Finally the flat is done ... the brand new toilets are leaking in a terrible way ... the floor was changed but according to my husband description they did not put enough layers of different soils to isolate properly . We count our expenses : accommodation , transport of the furniture , decorating the walls , mending the toilets ...finally we found that more than 6000 rials we had to pay because ten years ago when the house was constructed some people did not isolate properly the floor .
We expect it to be sinking again . We hope that we will not witness it here ... but for this price or a little more we would find a much better place to live next year ...

NUMBERS

Fifteen thousand flats or houses are empty and can not be let in Doha .

Though the rents are going down - it is still very high for the salaries . Still so many families live in shared - substandard accommodation !

A woman finds that she is in for a surprise after being hassled by a cheeky man at City Centre, a shopping mall in Doha. Good commercial with humor and criticism on local outdated customs .

FAREWELL FOR BEST FRIENDS

Two of my best friends are leaving Qatar for good . It is so hard . There are so few of us here Hungarian mums .Our kids were growing up together here in the past years and now it is over .Good Bye ! Good Luck for you and for your kids in your new home !

The Gang - Greeting CArd by DudaDaze
Browse Birthday Cards

Retro style digital painting radiating peace and harmony . This design is a template .Personalize it !

sailing boat by almawad
Choose a business card design at www.Zazzle.com

Some lights

Can you tell me why this campaign to cover up and plans to force people to do so (especially women)leaves a bad taste in the mouth ?

Reading the local news I noticed the view of a Qatari man on the issue :
At least some lights !

Abdullah Hussein — Qatari

“What one wears is one’s own choice. We can’t force people to wear clothes we like. It’s a matter of individual freedom and I believe in personal freedom.”

“I agree that people should respect our social and religious values and traditions, but they should do it voluntarily. We cannot force them. We can only make them aware through campaigns. We can convince them about that and we have to be extremely polite doing that.”

SUMMER WITH KIDS 2009



Doha Expat Mums & Kids: Pool + Indoor Playgroup for 18-36 month old kids (Villagio area)

Date: 06/01/2009 to 07/27/2009
Time: 3pm-5pm

Visit the website for details and to RSVP www.dohaexpatmumsandkids.com

swimming baby by almawad
Browse more Baby T-Shirts

Fun First Nursery this summer

July for 4 weeks Summer Camp, from Sunday 5th July until Thursday 30th July

children up to 6 years old
QR 1800/ per child
contact the Reception at 4110953 between 7am and 2pm

Creative Child Nursery

30/ 3/ 2009

If you are from 2 to 6 years old, join them this summer for a lot of fun! From July 5th to August 20th. Time from 7 am to 1 pm Information and Registration: 479 5916

ICC SUMMER CAMP
THE OASIS 2009

“The Indian Cultural Centre is all set to conduct its Fourth Summer Camp – “The Oasis 2009” involving a wide range of informative, innovative educational and entertaining programs for 6-weeks starting from 2nd Aug.2009 to 10.Sept.2009 at the MIS – DPS school.

The formal inauguration will be held on the 1st.Aug.2009 while the Grand finale on 11th.Sept.2009.

Registration formalities must be completed at the ICC office only. For any further details, please contact ICC reception at 4674845 / 4674891 from 10 to 12am and from 4 to 10pm.

APTECH SUMMER CAMP( COMPUTER EDUCATION)

FROM 1ST OF JULY

REGISTER :4673399




Junior Hotel Academy

Let your child enjoy the summer season and let them feel being a young professional hotelier.

It's open for children ages 6 to 12 years old. Schedules will be every Thursday from July 2 to August 20, 2009 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. For more inquires please call Catherine Vidonia on 496-6511, 496-6600 or email her at catherine.vidonia@movenpick.com

Entertainment Village

Doha Exhibitions Center

children’s rides, ‘extreme rides’ and organised sporting activities in the outdoor area, with entertainment, games, restaurants and shopping areas indoors. Artistes from Europe and Asia will perform live shows, including plays, acrobatics, puppet shows and magic tricks to entertain the young and old alike. An appetising collection of restaurants and cafes will satisfy visitors of all tastes. The Entertainment Village will welcome fun-seekers from 10am to 10pm from Saturday to Thursday and from 4pm to 10pm on Fridays.

SEE COMMENTS ON IT

BEACHES IN QATAR

AN EXCELLENT COLLECTION OF BEACHES , LOCATION , DESCRIPTIONS



Regatta Summer School - Learn to Sail

5 afternoons, Sunday through Thursday.
Starting of the week 5th, 12th and 19th of July, 2 pm to 5pm.

QR 800 per students per week. Minimum age 6 yrs.

Qualified RYA Instructors, Buoyancy Aids Provided, Safety Boats on hand at all times.

For further details contact 442 4577 / 550 7846

email : regatta/-a-t-/qatar.net.qa

Evolution Soccer Summer Holiday Club


Evolution Soccer will be hosting summer courses.

5th to 9th of July at Doha College from 9 am to 1pm.

12th to 16th of July at Doha College from 9am to 1pm.

Each weeks will cost QR 700.

Children can attend a minimum of one day at the cost QR 150 per day.

For futher info pls call 506 4794 or email evolution_soccer/-a-t-/hotmail.com

CHILDREN COURSES - Dar Al Founoun Art School, Waqif Art Center
Drawing


MONDAYS: 4:00pm ! 5:30pm
Beginning: June 8th, 2009 ! 4 sessions once per week
Ending: June 29th, 2009
QR 650 (all materials included)
Children: age 7 -10 (grades 3-5)
Children will learn to look and reproduce on paper what they see by using
the 5 basic elements of drawing: dots, ovals, straight lines, curves lines,
and angle line. Through a variety of exercises they will learn to draw
abstract designs, animals, faces and objects.

info@waqifartcenter.com
434 09 21

Opera for kids

Hansel and Gretel
Qatar Philharmonic Orchestra

Date: 07/13/2009 to 07/23/2009
Venue: Aspire Hall Shows are at 3:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m

QR 25 per child, QR 75 per adult
available at the door or reserved by phone
call 520-6319

MY GYM

498 0099

SUMMER CAMP - 3 TIMES A WEEK
QR 2750 PER MONTH


Café Céramique Summer Camp
on Thursdays , Fridays , Saturdays
QR 95 per day
cooking ,craft , snacks included
tel :4671100

CONTRASTS IN QATAR

an old district in Mammoura,Doha
and the futuristic zig zag buildings in a new district


see my next post about summer with kids in qatar

PLACES IN QATAR


VIP Toilet details : Villagio Mall , Doha

Places in Qatar : Diplomatic Club

It is a common form of entertainment in Qatar -going to recreational clubs .Companies , hotels , villa compounds have their own ones .The cheapest ones were closed down .The least expensive club nowadays have no beach - but swimming pools .
The Diplomatic Club offers no information on their membership fees on their homepage . I have visited it for an event recently .I was all impressed by the decor ... somehow it reminded me a little bit Gellert spa in Buda .

MILESTONES ON MY ONLINE ART BUSINESS

It is time to celebrate ! I got 100 orders till now and the last one was cleared yesterday !I have been member at Zazzle since August 2007

Zen –dream mandala by almawad
make your own business card online using www.zazzle.com

I got my first order from Qatar . Perhaps because of this free shipping special offer !

Cute purple giraffe designed for kids ! The little ones will like Alma Wad's unique mug !

PURPLE Giraffe by almawad
Design custom imprinted mugs on zazzle

Thank You A . from Qatar for the purchase !

Scenes from our life

It felt like we were at home

We were sipping our cappucino in a fast food place .It was our unofficial monthly gettogether , Hungarian expat mums ..
- Alma ,you got new handbag ,wow ! -said Marta
- Special offer ,Carrefour ,it had a junk flower on it which had to be removed - 20 rial( less than a dollar) -I answered
- Then Timi showed off her handbag .What do you think about this ?
Twice but nice shop ,Hungary 50 forint ( 25 cents) ...

Then we burst out laughing .... that was the best laugh I have had in this "you must show off" country where I have been living for almost seven years !

expat life in the world

according to an article in the gulf -times expats earn the best worlwide in japan , russia and qatar

though prices are the lowest in india ,malaysia and china - but in the three above countries one third of the expats earn more than $200.000 per year ...

i made a little calculation - it means 60 - 70 thousand rial per month ...
who are making this big money ?
one third of the population here?????