Two drunken Filipino men started to quarrel on their company accommodation in Al -Khor . Then one of them kicked the other so badly that he had died due to internal bleeding . Doha court sentenced him to three years imprisonment .
Tuesday, December 02, 2014
3 years prison for unintentional killing
Two drunken Filipino men started to quarrel on their company accommodation in Al -Khor . Then one of them kicked the other so badly that he had died due to internal bleeding . Doha court sentenced him to three years imprisonment .
Monday, December 01, 2014
Sunday, November 30, 2014
The Huangs not guilty according to Qatari court
The parents of Gloria -a little child who was found dead in her room after four days of not eating were acquitted from the charges of starving their child to death .
The parents were aware of the eating disorder she had had but never took her to any doctor in Qatar .They knew that she was hungry still they locked her in her bedroom for nights because of her garbage eating habit .( Why did not they lock the garbage bin rather ?)
Their case shared the public opinion very much . Some people prefer to see them as totally innocent people who were the victim of a bad bad Middle Eastern justice system which might have been biased towards the American couple with Chinese origin .
Others see their case as a pure case of parental negligence - a case which would get harsh punishments in their own country .
Gloria was an adopted little girl from Ghana . She had been suffering from an infection as well which was not treated either .Her American parents had all the means to provide her the best medical care possible . But they did not !After all the procedures of higher and lower courts it is still not clear why they failed to take her to one clinic in Qatar !
The parents were aware of the eating disorder she had had but never took her to any doctor in Qatar .They knew that she was hungry still they locked her in her bedroom for nights because of her garbage eating habit .( Why did not they lock the garbage bin rather ?)
Their case shared the public opinion very much . Some people prefer to see them as totally innocent people who were the victim of a bad bad Middle Eastern justice system which might have been biased towards the American couple with Chinese origin .
Others see their case as a pure case of parental negligence - a case which would get harsh punishments in their own country .
Gloria was an adopted little girl from Ghana . She had been suffering from an infection as well which was not treated either .Her American parents had all the means to provide her the best medical care possible . But they did not !After all the procedures of higher and lower courts it is still not clear why they failed to take her to one clinic in Qatar !
A video for music and hedgehog lovers
Piano lessons in Doha
1. Qatar Music Academy
you pay for a term or for a full academc year /around 4 000 rials
location Katara QMA buildng 08
2 .Steinway Showrooms -Pearl
adult group course is specially designed to teach people how to teach themselves
From September to June, they have two groups every week: one on Tuesdays (ladies only) and one on Wednesdays (mixed). Each month, they start with a new group. Classes are given in their showroom 6 to 7 pm, by qualified instructors.
Costs of the course are QAR 2000 (for 4 lessons). - together with a friend you pay only QAR 1000 per person.
3 Mrs. Daniela Skaf
Mrs. Daniela Skaf is now a distinguished teacher in harp, piano and keyboards in the area of Doha, Qatar. Currently she works at the International Academy of Dance, Music and Arts in Doha. She also gives lessons in harp and piano privately.
Mobile: +974 660 20264
more info on piano teachers
you can check out this conversation too
Thursday, November 27, 2014
Avenue 23 cafe - my breakfast experience
The breakfast was served with style - the tea came in a glass kettle and a candle kept it warm . It was not the usual tea bag but some pressed herbal tea in a metal tea infuser .We were sitting upstairs in a small room with glass partitions to separate us from the smoking guests .The windows were looking for the shabby area of Bin Mahmoud . If only it was in a nice park !
The white and purple decor /the comfortable armchairs made the place to have a stylish and cosy feel .
The time to taste the breakfast came !The omelet was very good - just a bit oily /just a bit hot with green chilly .The sausage was fried and very nice .The baked bean was nothing special .The labneh platter came with cut vegetables and toasts -it was artistic ! Very nice .
We ordered some crepe as well .It had beautiful look - as you expect a crepe in a five star hotel not in a street cafe .
Unfortunately , I forgot that chocolate cream means around here Nutella .That was disappointing .But the kids liked it - it came with banana and walnut pieces . It is also very strange for me that they do not sell in Qatar sweets stuffed with ground walnuts .Is it because the walnut grinder costs a fortune ? And the electric grinders are not really good ? Yeah I come from the country of Gundel crepe and I am very critical .The crepe with fresh fruits also came with Nutella . That really made me upset .No other filling exists around here ?
As we were leaving we saw everywhere only men - no one woman or family .
We arrived at this place on a Friday morning with coupons - just to hear that they do not serve breakfast on Friday mornings - they do not have chef !
We came back on Saturday morning - they had no clue what the advertisement promised us as breakfast . Finally what we got was totally different from what was promised . We did not make a fuss about it - and it was good . We had to wait 40 minutes for the breakfast .All the place have a very strong smell of cigarette . The smell in the small non-smoking rooms was of a chemical which was to neutralize the smoke's smell .
It is located right next to the Red Lobster restaurant at the end of the Al-jazeera street .
Sabah , the singer died at age 87
Lebanon mourns legendary 'songbird' #Sabah
http://t.co/uSCS9ZdFAU
#songbirdSabah pic.twitter.com/ElIXfTZCxC
— Gulf-Times (@GulfTimes_QATAR) November 26, 2014
The legendary songbird , the Lebanese Sabah died the other day .She was 87 and she has been singing for 60 years . She had more than 3000 songs during this time . She is popular all over the Arab world among Muslims and Christians .
I saw her around ten years ago in TV shows many people wondered how old she was but she did not answer those questions - she had young look but her voice sounded old . Actually I am surprised that she was only 87 - I thought she was well above 90 .
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
Equestrian Photography Competition
Theme : the Arabian horse in action
Prize :a trip to France’s most prestigious equestrian event, the Qatar Prix de L’Arc de Triomphe which will take place on the first weekend of October 2015, return flights and a 4-night stay at a 5-star luxury hotel in Paris
Deadlines :
until midnight 31st January 2015
who can participate ; anyone who is 18 or older with a a valid qatari id
more details
Monday, November 24, 2014
new women and maternity hospital soon opens
New women and maternity hospital will have 200 beds, Qatar is a young society . Unlike other parts of the world the rich and the middle class have a lots of kids . The economic stability encourages expat families to have more babies than their middle class compatriots would typically have in their own country .
The number of deliveries is 21,000 annually in Qatar hospitals . Delivery outside the hospital is not allowed .Hospital beds sometimes simply not enough .
The government 's hospital service has different levels to accommodate mothers . The standard rooms usually have 2 /4 beds with telephone /TV and bathroom and chair bed for the relative who would like to stay with the mother .
Private rooms have only one bed with bathroom and with all the above mentioned services .Private suits at hospitals have a little "living room" for the mother can have a place for visitors .
Government hospital's doctor have huge experience - but those who prefer private hospital they can choose from 2 - 3 places ...They get for their money five star hotel like experience .
It is also chic to go abroad for delivery ....but that is another story .
The number of deliveries is 21,000 annually in Qatar hospitals . Delivery outside the hospital is not allowed .Hospital beds sometimes simply not enough .
The government 's hospital service has different levels to accommodate mothers . The standard rooms usually have 2 /4 beds with telephone /TV and bathroom and chair bed for the relative who would like to stay with the mother .
Private rooms have only one bed with bathroom and with all the above mentioned services .Private suits at hospitals have a little "living room" for the mother can have a place for visitors .
Government hospital's doctor have huge experience - but those who prefer private hospital they can choose from 2 - 3 places ...They get for their money five star hotel like experience .
It is also chic to go abroad for delivery ....but that is another story .
New buses and taxis coming soon
Mowasalat announced that they ordered more buses and their new 150 buses are being produced . When those buses arrive then the public transport company will have 300 buses in their fleet .
They are planning to invite more people/company to join the private taxi franchise - taxi drivers will have to pay only around 1000 rial rent - 500 rial less than before .
They are planning to invite more people/company to join the private taxi franchise - taxi drivers will have to pay only around 1000 rial rent - 500 rial less than before .
Sunday, November 23, 2014
Friday, November 21, 2014
NO -Kill shelter in Qatar gest QR 50 ,000
I was very happy to discover that there has been in Qatar a no kill shelter for animals since 2009 . Their name is 2nd Chance Rescue and the founder is Abdulla al Naemi . I was happy because I am totally disgusted from those places where they advertise " we have to kill poor thing unless you adopt it " One organization even left the cats unattended in a hot summer day in their cages when a fire broke out and pure kitties were grilled alive ... What a horror !2nd Chance Rescue is a nonprofit, no kill Rescue Shelter which takes in injured, abused and abandoned animals; nurses them back to health, and works hard to find them a loving home .So far they have a manager and two full time workers and their capacity to shelter animals was limited to 120 .Hopefully, with this large amount they can give shelter to more animals . It was Chevron Phillips Chemical Qatar who donated this amount .
2nd Chance Rescue is welcoming anyone who would like to donate . If you are interested in their Volunteer Program, you can send them a private message or email
2ndchancerescuedohaqatar@gmail.com.
Grand Prix Fencing - in December
when :From December 5 to 7
where; Venue 1 : Competition being held at Aspire Dome (5-7 Dec. 2014)
Venue 2 : Finals will be held at The Gate Mall (6 & 7 Dec. 2014)
what to expect
: Fencing Grand Prix
In collaboration with FIE with the slogan "One Series. Nine Cities." Doha Qatar was selected to be one of the nine cities.
Wednesday, November 19, 2014
Doha Flowers Expo 2014
Where : Museum of islamic Art ( MIA) park
When : Thursday 20th November
12:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Friday 21st November
02:00 pm to 10:00 pm
Saturday 22nd November
12:00 pm to 10:00 pm
What to expect : international expo of the flower and gardening industry /live entertainment
more details
Qatar wins hosting rights for 2019 Athletics WC
#Qatar wins hosting rights for 2019 World Championships in Athletics : http://t.co/9RP7QFfwZb @QtrSport #Doha2019 pic.twitter.com/Sxsd0oVk7E
— Aspetar (@AspetarQatar) November 18, 2014
Qatar celebrates as it won the rights to host the World Championships in Athletics in 2019 . One more reason to hurry up with all those construction projects .
Qatar and the football world cup 2022
Now that Blatter confirmed Qatar position as a host for the FIFA world cup of 2022 - and now as it is cleared from bribery allegations - now that neighboring countries send back their diplomats I expect quick changes in the city . I expect the acceleration of construction projects and the influx of expat workers .I expat soaring rent and other prices . I expect chaotic traffic due to the constructions and even fewer places at expat schools .
I expect more entertainment and exhibitions than ever remembering the years before the Asian Olympic games in 2006 . One festival came after the other ...
I know people who left Qatar and now they wish to return .Life may be more exciting here than ever . May it bring good luck for everyone !
I expect more entertainment and exhibitions than ever remembering the years before the Asian Olympic games in 2006 . One festival came after the other ...
I know people who left Qatar and now they wish to return .Life may be more exciting here than ever . May it bring good luck for everyone !
Monday, November 17, 2014
Saturday, November 15, 2014
Numbers in Qatar - 421 millions
Fancy numbers bring in QR 421mn #Qatar #Doha #FancyNumbers http://t.co/wRnp2uk5eY pic.twitter.com/QsoPjLjkQO
— Gulf-Times (@GulfTimes_QATAR) November 14, 2014
There was an online auction the other day in Qatar . Fancy registration numbers were sold by the Traffic Department. 19 numbers sold and brought 421 million of Qatari Riyal .
Thai snack restaurant - debunked myth
I had read so many good things about this restaurant before .On the tripadvisor it had been called the best budget restaurant of Doha . I had high expectations .
At least to eat something tasty ...
The interior of the place was shockingly low level . Very low ceiling with some pink paint and some posters advertising the Thai tourism and large -painted fans .
The guests were strange fellows that one never sees in Doha . I just asked myself where all those people come from .Ethiopians or Americans in large group with one single female with them , old rocker looking Brits , some Far - Eastern people .
Their menu was very large .Illustrated . One dish cost from 20 -35 QR -the large steamed fish around 70 .One soft drink was 5 - home made ice tea 8 .
I asked for chicken noodle soup . It came quickly in a large melamine bowl . It was full of small pieces of chicken which clearly was not cooked in the soup -but looked like leftover chicken torn into small pieces .It was very disgusting -I had to force myself to eat it . It had no taste - I had to season it ...
The kids asked for fried fish - for 30 rials they brought some little pieces of fried Pangasius fish on a very small plate . The children
ate it quickly and they were still very hungry. I ordered two steamed rice for them - they served only one - then later they wanted to make us pay for three .
The curry was also very disappointing - having no taste - some tasteless gravy with very small portion of chicken ...
I am not a connoisseur of the Thai cuisine . But for similar prices I had already had much better meals at the Thai smile
restaurant at Al-Bida park .Sometimes I cook at home yellow curry in Thai style ...I have always thought that it was very amateurish dish - I just cooked chicken/beef cubes in coconut milk and Thai curry mix from the supermarket - but my beginner's tries tasted like gourmet specialty compared to this one.
It was not cheap at all - we payed 200 QR and we were still hungry .Next to us I saw a young Korean looking couple sharing one single noodle soup then payed . This way it might worth it .
I do not recommend this place to anyone . If you wish to have Thai food then rather look for the Thai smile restaurant .At least at the Al-Bida park they had a much better looking interior with tastier dishes and happier service .Now that branch is closed as all the park did close but they have other branches in the city .
Thursday, November 13, 2014
Beat Diabetes Walkathon | Life In Aspire
Beat Diabetes Walkathon | Life In Aspire BEAT DIABETES WALKATHON Awareness about diabetes and healthy lifestyle. Participants will walk one/two kilometers on the track around the lake in Aspire Park
Date: 14/11/2014 -Friday
Time: 15:00 - 18:00
Collect your free T-shirt and cap from 1pm onwards
Free blood glucose test
Live music
Fitness& Zumba session
Kids Fun Zone
Sports Zone
Drumming and more
Date: 14/11/2014 -Friday
Time: 15:00 - 18:00
Collect your free T-shirt and cap from 1pm onwards
Free blood glucose test
Live music
Fitness& Zumba session
Kids Fun Zone
Sports Zone
Drumming and more
Wednesday, November 12, 2014
Art competition for students at MIA
Would you like to see your artwork published and displayed at MIA?
All you need to do is enter the Marvellous Creatures Art Competition by 15 December, 2014. 20 finalists will have their work selected for publication in an illustrated album.
Who can apply: all students born between January 1, 1989 and December 31, 1998 living in Qatar and abroad.
Works must illustrate ONE of the 4 stories provided
a 2‐dimensional art media wanted
Original art wanted
Prize :
The 20 finalists will be awarded by the panel of judges during a reception for the opening of the exhibition, to be held in the MIA Library.
more details
All you need to do is enter the Marvellous Creatures Art Competition by 15 December, 2014. 20 finalists will have their work selected for publication in an illustrated album.
Who can apply: all students born between January 1, 1989 and December 31, 1998 living in Qatar and abroad.
Works must illustrate ONE of the 4 stories provided
a 2‐dimensional art media wanted
Original art wanted
Prize :
The 20 finalists will be awarded by the panel of judges during a reception for the opening of the exhibition, to be held in the MIA Library.
more details
The most prominent families in Qatar
Qatar, Top 10 Families (Weighted by market value)
Thani (rulers)
Mohannadi
Attiya
Suwaidi
Kamal
Ibrahim
Salat
Mana
Hitmi
Fardan
Thani (rulers)
Mohannadi
Attiya
Suwaidi
Kamal
Ibrahim
Salat
Mana
Hitmi
Fardan
Note :a family in Qatar might be much bigger than in the west - some families have thousands or ten thousand members - I guess
source
Tuesday, November 11, 2014
Korean language courses at QU soon
Korean language courses will be available for Qatar university students from the next academic year .
Qatar University (QU) and Korea Foundation established a Korean language teaching programme at QU .
source
South Korea and Qatar established diplomatic relations in 1974.
Their estimated number here is around 2 thousand .Five Qatari nationals -112 students, 2,067 had other types of visas.
North Korean workers are reported to be among the lowest paid in the country, earning US$170/month.
Learn more about the Koreans in the Arab world .
Qatar University (QU) and Korea Foundation established a Korean language teaching programme at QU .
source
South Korea and Qatar established diplomatic relations in 1974.
Their estimated number here is around 2 thousand .Five Qatari nationals -112 students, 2,067 had other types of visas.
North Korean workers are reported to be among the lowest paid in the country, earning US$170/month.
Learn more about the Koreans in the Arab world .
2nd Qatar International Boat Show (QIBS 2014)
When : 11 - 14 November 2014
Where ; Mourjan Marina/Lusail City
What to expect :
boat builders and suppliers of marine equipment set up their stalls at the venue
they are from the region / France / Italy /UK /US
Visitors could tour the marina during the four-day exhibition
My tip : go there even if you are not interested in boats as it is a wonderful new marina of Doha - not discovered by the crowds yet
Dhows a big draw among
visitors to boat show
http://t.co/lP5pIJGYqH
#doha #QIBS #qatar pic.twitter.com/tD0d1wtCLU
— Gulf-Times (@GulfTimes_QATAR) November 13, 2014
Monday, November 10, 2014
Eric Lanlard baking Master Classes today in Doha
#Qatar are you ready to go #bakingmad with @TavolaME & @EatopiaQatar ?#baking classes in this #Gorgeous Food Emporium pic.twitter.com/rKYIDup6Gx
— eric lanlard (@eric_lanlard) November 10, 2014
Eric Lanlard, the “Cake Boy” is in Doha on 10th and 11th November.
Eric Lanlard, aka the Cake Boy and star of Channel 4’s Baking Mad, will be giving baking Master Classes on 10th and 11th in Doha, courtesy of Tavola
QR 1,750 per day
Camping Season is Here
Enjoy camping with the family this season. Apply online now through the link: http://t.co/h2MmzhTbOG #Hukoomi #Qatar pic.twitter.com/bqysK6mpod
— Øكومي - قطر (@HukoomiQatar) November 9, 2014
711 entries for novel competiton
Katara, the Cultural Village
Foundation’s Arabic Novel
Prize has received some 711
entries.157 novels were submitted
by women .The Arab Spring countries
have also the largest number
of authors ,particularly Egypt's ones .
Foundation’s Arabic Novel
Prize has received some 711
entries.157 novels were submitted
by women .The Arab Spring countries
have also the largest number
of authors ,particularly Egypt's ones .
Sunday, November 09, 2014
1,900 students barred from school exams
1,900 students barred from mid-term school exams at the Independent Schools . The Supreme Educational Council had warned students before taking this step . Simply there were too many students missing classes without proper reasons , Those who were absent seven days or more will be barred from exams .
source
source
Saturday, November 08, 2014
Car accident in Doha
car accident in Doha pic.twitter.com/8OATWUbcRA
— Qatar Tribune (@Qatar_Tribune) November 8, 2014
Doha Book Fair in January
Don't miss the 25th @DohaBookFair from 7 - 17 Jan. at Doha Exhibition Center. http://t.co/rOmDBIUdkp #Hukoomi #Qatar pic.twitter.com/8S9f7mh5dV
— Øكومي - قطر (@HukoomiQatar) November 4, 2014
Friday, November 07, 2014
Rough fights at Al- Mana Secondary School
Qatar is not typically the place where rough and noisy fights or quarrels happen .The locals themselves are rather of quiet nature and the expats embraced this " khalivali "= let it go culture .Avoiding the conflicts is part of the daily routine around here .That is why someone gets surprised when hears reports about a brawl in a school .
17 students were arrested when a fight broke out at Al-Mana Secondary School . The school administration could not control the situation and called the police to prevent serious injuries . Not all
source
Wednesday, November 05, 2014
Free screening Rio at MIA park
Attending our free "Rio" screening tomorrow at MIA Park? Screening will start at 7:35 PM instead of 7 PM. #Qatar pic.twitter.com/nl9VJKXGaO
— Doha Film Institute (@DohaFilm) November 5, 2014
Yoga classes for ladies in Qatar
where : Shimmers Yoga Studio/
AL-Siraj St. Opposite Peninsula Building D-ring Road Near Lulu Hyper Market
Doha
instructor : Reena Sahoo
Yoga Classes Timings:
6am to 7am
7am to 8 am
4pm to 5 pm
5pm to 6 pm.
call for appointment 33252536
Tuesday, November 04, 2014
Sunday deadly accident
The story is brief and so much deja vue ...
Land cruiser strayed from the road and killed someone at a workshop working peacefully . The driver also died . One injured is in critical condition ... Why someone drives this crazy way so early in the morning ? At 6:30 ....
On Salwa road driving towards Abu Samra ...
source
Land cruiser strayed from the road and killed someone at a workshop working peacefully . The driver also died . One injured is in critical condition ... Why someone drives this crazy way so early in the morning ? At 6:30 ....
On Salwa road driving towards Abu Samra ...
source
Sunday, November 02, 2014
Avoid Rumeilah/ Al-Bida Park
I took my child for riding his little bike Friday night to the Rumeilah /Al-Bida park .
It was full of people as usual - but it was like a nightmare .
No playgorund at all . It vanished . Around the lake missing fences / at the top of the hills -missing fences . Every toilet closed . Two buffets are still open but the Thai smile restaurant closed down ...
Kids can fall into the lake and die =kids can fall off the higher areas onto concrets - kids are peeing around ...
Later I found a notice that the park is under maintenance .
At other place I found an article that it is closed officially .
Why people are not warned ? How people with small kids are allowed to enter when all the area is full of hazardous objects ! How the buffets are allowed to be open when the toilets are all closed !
Memory of the old parks of Doha
I met a young mother at a party. When we told her that we have been here for more than a decade then she said " Qatar must have been terrible when you arrived .. I mean there were no greens and parks "
I was thinking about it - when we arrived along the Corniche -
there were 3 parks - The Sheraton park , Al- Bida , Museum park - I think all three are closed now
At weekend they were quite crowdy then we would go to Muntazah park . It was never crowdy - there was a very small entrance fee - and the fee kept the crowds away ...the great old trees .. the fountains , the swings , they were all wonderful . Then it was closed down for maintenance .10 years ago !
For an affordable fee there was a ferry boat taking us to the Palm-tree island .It was like a tale !Fresh air and palm trees everywhere !
Yes , Aspire park , and MIA park came later - and I like both - but the memory of the trees and old parks is still strong
in my soul ...
I was thinking about it - when we arrived along the Corniche -
there were 3 parks - The Sheraton park , Al- Bida , Museum park - I think all three are closed now
At weekend they were quite crowdy then we would go to Muntazah park . It was never crowdy - there was a very small entrance fee - and the fee kept the crowds away ...the great old trees .. the fountains , the swings , they were all wonderful . Then it was closed down for maintenance .10 years ago !
For an affordable fee there was a ferry boat taking us to the Palm-tree island .It was like a tale !Fresh air and palm trees everywhere !
Yes , Aspire park , and MIA park came later - and I like both - but the memory of the trees and old parks is still strong
in my soul ...
IKEA and Middle East Peace Process
Out of 193 states in the world, 138 recognise Palestine. But until yesterday, this included only three EU member states: Poland, Hungary and Slovakia - now a new EU member stepped into the club :Sweden .
Lieberman, Israel's foreign minister :
"Sweden must understand that relations in the Middle East are much more complicated than self-assembly furniture at Ikea."
Sweden's Foreign Minister Margot Wallstrom
"I will be happy to send Israeli FM Lieberman an Ikea flat pack to assemble. He'll see it requires a partner, co-operation and a good manual"
source :
Lieberman, Israel's foreign minister :
"Sweden must understand that relations in the Middle East are much more complicated than self-assembly furniture at Ikea."
Sweden's Foreign Minister Margot Wallstrom
"I will be happy to send Israeli FM Lieberman an Ikea flat pack to assemble. He'll see it requires a partner, co-operation and a good manual"
source :
Friday, October 31, 2014
Unexpected wall-decor in an American restaurant in Doha
There was a Soviet WWII poster as wall-decor in an American restaurant in Doha . It was in ciril letters calling for the victory and tanks and planes - I understood only words .It has been for a long time that I used my Russian .One sees in Doha more and more Russians and does not get schocked when hears that they want to set up a Cultural Center in Doha . But an American restaurant to have Soviet propaganda wall -decor ! It was something totally shocking .
It has not been the only unexpected thing there - It has never happened to me before . The waitress took my changes with my receipt away though I did not want to leave them any tip . I left that jar with the changes on the table while I was reading an article . I wanted to finish that thing before I pack away my changes - then she came and asked me about the bill " It is arranged already " - I looked up from my paper then she took the jar away with 14 rials and my receipt !
I was speechless ! I could not believe that this happened . I left it with her just because I was too tired . She gave us a big smile and "Thank you very much for coming "
Their breakfast was OK . My kids were happier with it than me . I ordered Cajun omelet which was supposed to come with "smoked salami and jalapeno " .It had no one single piece of jalapeno and the salami was rather tiny pieces of ham ... well it is the cultural differences ... in America salami must have other meaning ... I told to myself . It came with two tiny pieces of bread ... for 25 -30 rial - I do not remember exactly . My kids were luckier -one of them asked burrito for breakfast which was full of mushroom and veggies - the others asked salmon sandwich with poached eggs . They did not have Cappuccino ! Only Latte ! How comes !No foaming machine or device !
It was not so original ! And the service was very very slow.
By the way it was Roger's Diner in the Suhaim bin Hamad street - nearly opposite the Red Lobster. It is in the mighty looking building of the Qatar Rails.
Halloween Brunch - Four Seasons Hotel Doha
Halloween Brunch @FSDoha pic.twitter.com/gVkiGRtjXN
— Manuel Santos (@ManuelS01879346) October 31, 2014
Wednesday, October 29, 2014
fire drills in the country
Fire mock drill @OoredooQatar building in Dafna under supervision of Civil Defence #Qatar #MoI_Qatar pic.twitter.com/cW1KEmAfiF
— Ministry of Interior (@MOI_QatarEn) October 29, 2014
Fire drill at Tornado Tower! My legs are killing me... @dohanews @iloveqatar @QatarHappening #Doha #Qatar #firedill pic.twitter.com/rb143CjMmd
— MiloÅ¡ Vasić (@Milos_Vasic) October 28, 2014
Horrific accident in Sharjah
The terrible accidents in Doha of this Eid is still strong and fresh in our memory - then comes this accident with speeding locals in the UAE . It is sad - very sad . The same pattern - youngsters playing on the road at dawn /night when they believed it was empty /nearly empty ....they find their fate under a parking truck ...horrible dictu - two of the speeding car's passengers literally lost their heads .
May the common sense rule on the roads !
May the common sense rule on the roads !
Two decapitated, two others also killed in #Sharjah car crash http://t.co/nhJSrLkZth pic.twitter.com/AUtoPKiXzw
— Gulf News (@gulf_news) October 29, 2014
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
Kids Yoga at SFQ Sports Academy
Kids Yoga in Gharafa and West Bay Locations. Classes start November 6th!
Al Gharafa:
3 – 5 Years
Thu : 4 pm – 4.45 pm
Sat : 9 am - 9.45 am
6 – 8 Years
Thu : 5 pm – 5.45 pm
Sat :10 am -10.45 am
West Bay:
3 – 5 Years
Tue: 3 pm – 3.45 pm
6 – 8 Years
Tue: 4 pm – 4.45 pm
Register Now as spaces are limited.
Al Gharafa:
3 – 5 Years
Thu : 4 pm – 4.45 pm
Sat : 9 am - 9.45 am
6 – 8 Years
Thu : 5 pm – 5.45 pm
Sat :10 am -10.45 am
West Bay:
3 – 5 Years
Tue: 3 pm – 3.45 pm
6 – 8 Years
Tue: 4 pm – 4.45 pm
Register Now as spaces are limited.
Airbus A330-243 takeoff and landing - Emirates' new route
Oct 27, 2014
Emirates' new route from Dubai to Budapest . Welcome Emirates!
Emirates' new route from Dubai to Budapest . Welcome Emirates!
Budapest - Tehran luxury train journey
Budapest - Tehran luxury train arrived in Tehran yesterday . The passengers were mostly wealthy Britons and Australians .It cost them more than $3o thousand.Two weeks on train ! I like trains very much but it is so difficult to imagine that so much time can be enjoyable . The Golden
Eagle Danube Express train, operated
by Hungarian Railways -it offers decorated beautiful carriages and city tours in Iran .
What an unusual route and way to travel abroad !
I miss trains so much in Qatar !
some photos found on twitter !
thank you for sharing .
You can now take a train, the Golden Eagle Danube Express, from Budapest to Zanjan, Iran: http://t.co/GwsUm8miiw
— sam haselby (@HaselbySam) October 27, 2014
#VisitIran in 'Five-star' luxury. 'Golden Eagle Danube Express' to link Hungary and #Iran http://t.co/zFZifVpGVx pic.twitter.com/rboOxL4PFI
— Patrick McDermott (@P_McDermott) September 2, 2014
Monday, October 27, 2014
youtube and my language preference
It has been for a week or two that youtube decided I must watch Hindi commercials . Every time I click on a video to see my favorite Hungarian singer comes an arrogant Indian woman who shouts into my face " let's surprise MRS . Mirza " -and Mrs. Mirza opens the door then this rich looking arrogant woman rushes into the home of a simple and kind Indian mother as a real intruder to teach her about the washing powder she should use . At this point it is possible to skip the commercial and I can listen to my favorite Hungarian songs .
I do not want to change my washing powder - especially that they want to force me to listen to an arrogant Indian woman .I swear I will never use their washing -powder !And some Hungarian commercials would suit better a Hungarian song .If it is too much to ask for then please some Arabic commercial rather ...I could practice Arabic at least ... Who knows how I could persuade the youtube robot to feed me with commercials in my preferred languages ?
Sunday, October 26, 2014
Numbers in Qatar - 25 kg weight loss in few days
One of the victim of last Saturday food poisoning claims he had lost 25 kg within a few days . He suffered from an extremely heavy diarrhea .
source
source
Numbers in Qatar - Cars
800 cars of different types, including
contemporary, vintage
and sports vehicles are on display at the Katara , Cultural Village
contemporary, vintage
and sports vehicles are on display at the Katara , Cultural Village
Saturday, October 25, 2014
Locked in the school bus - little girl died in the UAE
A little Indian girl died in the UAE on Oct. 7 . She slept on the bus while going to school .She was forgotten there ."It is not my
mistake says the driver " I was not even allowed to talk to the pupils " True that there was a supervisor on board . She
failed to check as well - to do this one minute job ...it was right after Eid .. said the receptionist whose job would
have been to check if all the kids who entered the bus arrived at school ....so many kids were absent - I realized only
late that there is a girl missing ...one minute job ..which make the difference between life and death ....she is not the
first little student forgotten .. it happened to Sarah Gazdhar in Doha some years ago and there were other kids ...my kid
was one of them -she was lucky -she could open a window and scream for help - and such things are happening over and over
again because the safety of kids of cheaper schools is not a priority ...principals can hire from the street a driver/ a bus supervisor and the authorities overlook those flaws ...
mistake says the driver " I was not even allowed to talk to the pupils " True that there was a supervisor on board . She
failed to check as well - to do this one minute job ...it was right after Eid .. said the receptionist whose job would
have been to check if all the kids who entered the bus arrived at school ....so many kids were absent - I realized only
late that there is a girl missing ...one minute job ..which make the difference between life and death ....she is not the
first little student forgotten .. it happened to Sarah Gazdhar in Doha some years ago and there were other kids ...my kid
was one of them -she was lucky -she could open a window and scream for help - and such things are happening over and over
again because the safety of kids of cheaper schools is not a priority ...principals can hire from the street a driver/ a bus supervisor and the authorities overlook those flaws ...
Wednesday, October 22, 2014
The Huangs make the international Headlines again
The Huangs came some years ago to work in Qatar .Worldcup 2022 project . The man is engineer .This is very important ! American - let us not forget !
Then it happened that their adopted daughter Gloria died .She was only five .She had eating disorder - claims the western media - the parents are innocent !
She had not been eating for four days when her condition turned critical - claims the Qatari attorney .She had eating disorder and the parents knew it . She had other infection as well causing her abdominal pains and discomfort . And how many times they were looking for help ? How many times they visited the doctors ? Well , they spent two years in Qatar and zero times - Gloria was not important enough for the parents to be taken to the doctor .Never . The couple says they did not trust the doctors in Qatar .
They have four other kids now with the grandma now .I am scared to think that the so called innocent parents can return to the
USA and face no trial and they are allowed to raise these kids .
Gloria was a five year old African little girl . She had suffered a lot - in the orphanage she was starving ,infected and neglected . When the well-to-do American couple adopted her - she had new hope for a better life .Her parents had all the means to get her treated .But they locked her into her room for night for she would not attack ,the fridge and the garbage .Yes - she loved eating from the garbage . And at this point I can't hold back my tears ! How much she had been suffered that she got used to the garbage eating !
Certainly ,the garbage eating was not the fault of the parents but the African conditions - but they had one more reason to seek medical help ! They failed to do so ! You know, in Qatar there is a center where one can go with her child at any time of the day . Kids get free treatment and medication at nominal fee . It is a spacious, air-conditioned place with cute animal paintings on the wall and with a lots of doctors . Many wealthy locals go there as well as the doctors are trusted more than the posh private clinics doctors .
They did not go to any clinics .
They did not provide her with food while being locked up for nights .
I am trying to get the point of the Western media but simply I can not understand how they can call this couple innocent .Is it tolerated in the West to adopt a child with known eating disorder then let her starve to death ? Because this is the case .Simple and tragic .
kayaking tour this weekend
Post by Paddle Qatar.
Paddle Qatar is inviting all for a kayaking tour .They run morning tours at 9am and 11.30 am and a sunset tour at 3.30pm.
To book your spot and for more information go to www.paddleqatar.com or call 5549 0895.
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
City Center Mall - small fire at the Fun City
Security guard said he expects City Center 3rd floor east court to reopen after 2pm following small fire #qatar #doha pic.twitter.com/6ykh0RlxDI
— Peter Kovessy (@peterkovessy) October 21, 2014
Food poisoning came probably from a Turkish restaurant
Severe food poisoning cases were reported from Hamad hospital - 20 people became seriously ill - all had barbecue chicken on Saturday evening at a Turkish restaurant somewhere near Al-Ahli hospital .The police sealed off the place and investigations are going on .
The victims had very bad stomach ache and were vomiting some hours after having their dinner .Children and women -whole families became sick .A pregnant woman gave birth too early due to the abdominal pain of the poisoning . The baby is at the Intensive Care Unit now .
source
The local authorities are usually very strict with restaurants breaching the law and they close them for minor offences for months . The problem is the great fluctuation of the employees - they come to this country then go - then new ones come etc .This way it is extremely difficult to find reliable workforce in every field .
Personally , I will stay away from restaurants for a while . Right on the day of our arrival in this country we got terrible food poisoning -most probably in Egypt we had some salad with cheese the day before .Then for a half year we did not dare any restaurants in Doha . Once bitten twice shy !
________________________________
Today's paper named the restaurant which was closed due to the food poisoning " Marmara Istanbul " They must be closed for 60 days . Authorities plan to launch inspection campaign on food outlets ,beauty salons etc.
source
The victims had very bad stomach ache and were vomiting some hours after having their dinner .Children and women -whole families became sick .A pregnant woman gave birth too early due to the abdominal pain of the poisoning . The baby is at the Intensive Care Unit now .
source
The local authorities are usually very strict with restaurants breaching the law and they close them for minor offences for months . The problem is the great fluctuation of the employees - they come to this country then go - then new ones come etc .This way it is extremely difficult to find reliable workforce in every field .
Personally , I will stay away from restaurants for a while . Right on the day of our arrival in this country we got terrible food poisoning -most probably in Egypt we had some salad with cheese the day before .Then for a half year we did not dare any restaurants in Doha . Once bitten twice shy !
________________________________
Today's paper named the restaurant which was closed due to the food poisoning " Marmara Istanbul " They must be closed for 60 days . Authorities plan to launch inspection campaign on food outlets ,beauty salons etc.
source
Monday, October 20, 2014
Road to be closed till 18Dec 2014
Umm Ethnaitain interchange exit heading north on AlShamal Road will be closed from 19Oct until 18Dec 2014. #Qatar pic.twitter.com/M6HuYVIt74
— Ministry of Interior (@MOI_QatarEn) October 18, 2014
Dvořák’s Concert at the Opera House
When :Thursday, October 30, 2014, 7:30 pm
Where :Opera House, Katara Cultural Village Building 16
Tickets: QR75-200
What to expect :
Cláudio Cohen, conductor
Antônio Carlos Gomes: Overture Alvorada from Lo Schiavo
Heitor Villa-Lobos: Bachianas Brasileiras No. 7, A. 432
AntonÃn Dvořák: Symphony No. 9 in E Minor, Op. 95 (From the New World)
Sunday, October 19, 2014
New Taxi Company and the taxi service in Doha
I have not used taxis for a half year or so . Last week I needed one very much .I had to arrange some official papers and come back .Booking taxis is still a nightmare .The first day I called around 6 am but they were fully booked .I had to cancel my trip to the office . The same evening I called them to book a taxi for the coming day . Fully booked - you need to book 48 hours in advance -was the answer .
Is this a service ? We were promised some years ago to get taxis within 15 minutes wherever our location is due to the new technology . As some private taxi companies have been doing so in India for years .
Things are not improving just the opposite . In the past there used to be a line in front of the taxi stations at malls . I was waiting more than two hours with two little kids on the day before Eid at Landmark . The line was just there but the supervisor couldn't care less . Some people just jumped the queue and he let them take the cabs from those whose turn came . When I asked him to mind his job then he offered me a taxi with a Filipino male passenger already in ." he will go to the Villaggio first -then takes you home " No -thanks - I want a taxi just for me and my kids ." Taxi drivers themselves came and looked at the passengers then making faces deciding if they want or not this or that person . It is a complete chaos - the lack of supervision make these drivers behave like they are the kings of the transportation and we poor citizens who wish to travel in their car we should be happy an thankful if they are ready to take us to our desired location .
The silver lining is that new taxi companies come - the newest one is The Capital -they have 500 cars and charcoal-gray roof . They can be called through Karwa call center( 4458888) - many of their cars will operate in smaller towns outside Doha .
The Sound of Music - live on stage in Doha -coming soon
when :
WEDNESDAY 26 NOV at 7pm
THURSDAY 27 NOV at 7pm
FRIDAY 28 NOV at 2pm
FRIDAY 28 NOV at 7pm
SATURDAY 29 NOV at 2pm
SATURDAY 29 NOV at 7pm
where:Qatar National Convention Center Theatre
ticket price :from 250 to 1200 QR /online ticket booking
what to expect : performance of 2hrs 40 minutes including an interval
The sound of music is a story about a woman who leaves an Austrian convent to become a governess to the children of a Naval officer widower.This is a famous musical with great hits like "Do-Re-Mi , "My Favorite Things" " The Sound of Music"
Friday, October 17, 2014
Wednesday, October 15, 2014
Anantara Banana Island Resort - coming soon
It is planned to open before the end of 2014.Luxury ferry will take the guests from the Corniche area . It takes twenty minutes to arrive there .Nine restaurants -stand alone villas with swimming pools are waiting for the guests of the resort .It has spa ,cinema , kids club ,teens club ,bike rental . It sounds like an attractive place if you wish to escape the noise of the city .
The Park Bazaar will begin again on Saturday 1 November 2014
The Park Bazaar will begin again on Saturday 1 November 2014 so we are two week ahead of the first Bazaar after the summer heat .It is fun -it is attracting so many people vendors and customers as well . I feel really sorry that freshly prepared food can not be sold anymore .
What is The Park Bazaar about ?
a mix of 150 stalls = MIA Park Bazaar
from 12pm to 8pm on the first Saturday of every month from November to May
What to expect : homemade and handmade products such as jewellery, arts, crafts and clothing as well as books and souvenirs.
You can also book a stall if you wish to sell something ( hurry up -they are free and let out very fast )
email : miaparkbazaar@qma.org.qa
What is The Park Bazaar about ?
a mix of 150 stalls = MIA Park Bazaar
from 12pm to 8pm on the first Saturday of every month from November to May
What to expect : homemade and handmade products such as jewellery, arts, crafts and clothing as well as books and souvenirs.
You can also book a stall if you wish to sell something ( hurry up -they are free and let out very fast )
email : miaparkbazaar@qma.org.qa
Katara Art Studios - Family Workshops
Katara Art Studios is hosting a series of Diverse Family Art Workshops
from September 2014 to March 2015
families
with 5 to 10 year old kids are welcome
registration : education@katara.ne
t or 4408 0235 / 4408 0233
from September 2014 to March 2015
families
with 5 to 10 year old kids are welcome
registration : education@katara.ne
Tuesday, October 14, 2014
Picnic season kicks off in Qatar
The weather in Doha is cooling down - it means that it is somewhere between 30-40 C .Even some light rain might happen today -according to the meteorologists . It is the beginning of the picnic season .I like it . So many families are getting out for a meal with their hot-pots and thermoses .
Even five star hotels offer picnic on the grass .
I love the breakfasts the most outside .Almost no people at 7 am - like we have our own park :)
Even five star hotels offer picnic on the grass .
I love the breakfasts the most outside .Almost no people at 7 am - like we have our own park :)
Picnic mode in #Doha at #opalbygordonramsay with music by @MeetTheEyes and so many delicious goodies. pic.twitter.com/wPP3VNo9KQ
— The St. Regis Doha (@StRegisDoha) October 11, 2014
A 380 - inaugural flight from Doha to London
#QatarAirways' first Airbus #A380 makes its inaugural flight from Doha to London. http://t.co/Myhj62cNBH #QatarA380 pic.twitter.com/D1CpkOUb4T
— Qatar Airways (@qatarairways) October 13, 2014
Monday, October 13, 2014
plans for the Corniche of Doha
I like those plans . Go to the facebook page to see more . Especially the fountains and the retro style ,abstract statues are nice .Let's hope that they will be realized soon .
You can join Doha Joy Rides
Doha Joy Rides is a newly formed group for those who love pleasure riding with others . They are planning ridings for holidays like Halloween /Chrismtas /New Year etc on different tracks of Doha .
see their facebook page
Sunday, October 12, 2014
Saturday, October 11, 2014
healing power of the sand
Moroccan people attract tourists in some areas to get them cured by the healing power of the hot sand -in Merzouga area they successfully cure people suffering from rheumatism, lumbago, polyarthritis and some skin disorders . A 10 minute neck-deep burial in the sand can detoxify the body - they claim .This is a cheap way of getting much better and such cure can be repeated yearly .
very hot sand is used (48-60°C), but, thanks to the sand special structure- as it gradually releases heat - there is no danger of burning - 20-40 minutes of sand spa daily can be effective if repeated during two weeks
Now - I know for sure that here in Qatar there is a demand on easing the joint pains . If the solution is so easy then why not to find an area free of any kind of vehicles and why not to set up a spa for trying this ancient way of cure .
There is sand and there is heat in Qatar .
source
very hot sand is used (48-60°C), but, thanks to the sand special structure- as it gradually releases heat - there is no danger of burning - 20-40 minutes of sand spa daily can be effective if repeated during two weeks
Now - I know for sure that here in Qatar there is a demand on easing the joint pains . If the solution is so easy then why not to find an area free of any kind of vehicles and why not to set up a spa for trying this ancient way of cure .
There is sand and there is heat in Qatar .
source
Wednesday, October 08, 2014
MIA current and future exhibitions
Planning on visiting Doha soon? Learn about MIA current and future exhibitions http://t.co/7wDwUm9uwE http://t.co/cX6ULMuXvY #Qatar
— MuseumofIslamicArt (@MIAQatar) October 8, 2014
Tuesday, October 07, 2014
Death on the roads during Eid
It is very sad to learn how many people lost their lives on the roads during Eid . Even sadder to see that one of the accidents happened not in the peak hours but at night when it is considered that driving is safe . Unfortunately it attracts some youngsters as well who see the empty roads as a playground where they can do stunts and speed in a crazy way .
On Sunday morning three men died when two cars collided on the Corniche road somewhere near Halul Cafe .A Qatari, a Bahraini and a Iranian family now mourns their loved one .
As it was not horrible enough - Monday afternoon even a more horrific accident happened near the Hamad international Airport . A car caught fire after a collision and all fives in it burnt to death beyond recognition . They were all Filipinos !
Going home or meeting someone at the airport ...we do not know .
The other car which was driven by a young Qatari . He escaped with minor injuries .
A 26 year old Indian man died on the same road as his car got sandwiched between two trailers on Thursday evening .
Nine death on road accidents during the last five days !
source
Monday, October 06, 2014
big bang show at katara
Into space & science fiction?
Don't miss out the
"Big Bang" show
@KataraQatar
#EidInQatar
http://t.co/ZiLuw5nieE pic.twitter.com/pNwH5yeGOR
— Qatar Tourism (@Qtourism) October 6, 2014
Saturday, October 04, 2014
Biryani Hut - review
We tried a restaurant in Al- Wakra - it is not very well known in Doha . Biryani Hut - as its name suggests it specialised on meat with rice and it is not very big .
It is easy to find -by the main street of Wakra before the Pearl roundabout next to a famous junk food restaurant .
We ordered 1. Persian byrian
2 . chiken drumsticks tandoori style
3. tiger prawn
4 . lamb curry
All of them were tasty . All of them tasted the same. Four different dishes !!!
As they were made with the same sauce .
The persian byriani was supposed to come with minced meat and dried fruit . It had no one single fruit in it and it came with chicken cubes .
The chicken drumsticks did not look or taste as it came from the oven - it tasted like some chicken curry put into the oven for 10 minutes .It was also very small portion .
The tiger prawns were not tiger prawns but much smaller kind of shrimps that was also very small serving .
The lamb curry was real curry and no rice with it with four cubes of lamb and a lots of heavy and spicy sauce .
Their menu was promising a lots of different and very special flavours . We did not taste any special flavour - just the usual Indian curry flavor that is served in Doha wide like in the Caravan restaurant for example . It was not worth the money and the trip to Wakra for this place .
However try it once - you might be luckier than us. I read in the reviews that sometimes they have good chef sometimes not .
Friday, October 03, 2014
Cycling in Aspire Park
In Doha cycling is still a kind of entertainment and not a mean of transport
This recreational activity can be practised now at the Aspire park as well with a new 5 km long cycling track .
You can bring your own bike or you can hire one .Anyone is welcome above age 5 .
Location of the bike renting : near the playground between Hyat Plaza and Villaggio -it is also close to the soccer pitches
Timing : weekdays from 4 pm to 8 pm
at weekends from 12 to 8 pm
Eid al Adha from 12 to 8 pm
PRICE : 20 QR for the first one hour then 5 rials every additional hours - it is free now until October 12
valid ID and deposit needed
On Saturdays there is bike school as well from 3 :30 pm
This recreational activity can be practised now at the Aspire park as well with a new 5 km long cycling track .
You can bring your own bike or you can hire one .Anyone is welcome above age 5 .
Location of the bike renting : near the playground between Hyat Plaza and Villaggio -it is also close to the soccer pitches
Timing : weekdays from 4 pm to 8 pm
at weekends from 12 to 8 pm
Eid al Adha from 12 to 8 pm
PRICE : 20 QR for the first one hour then 5 rials every additional hours - it is free now until October 12
valid ID and deposit needed
On Saturdays there is bike school as well from 3 :30 pm
Wednesday, October 01, 2014
Fares Karam concert in Qatar - only one night
Where : St. Regis Doha Grand Ballroom
When :
Sunday 5th October
What time : Doors open from 8:30pm
What to expect : the highly acclaimed star of the Arab musical world is performing for one exclusive evening /three course set dinner menu is included in the ticket price
Price : QR750
you can buy tickets here
When :
Sunday 5th October
What time : Doors open from 8:30pm
What to expect : the highly acclaimed star of the Arab musical world is performing for one exclusive evening /three course set dinner menu is included in the ticket price
Price : QR750
you can buy tickets here
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