Dear family and friends,

I arrived here at the 22nd of July 2007. Still in dose of a new country, new culture, the new Doha: a writing of a newbie expat.

Buildings under construction are most of the major attraction here. Facade of houses and buildings were stereotype. By morning, roads are idle. Like a ghost town. Most of the places were male dominated; the one who runs the shops, establishments, salesclerks, and the like. It was generally managed by foreign merchants which is evident to a commercial place called “Souq Asiri” (avenida counterpart in Manila). That’s the environment.

One you could appreciate in this peaceful loving country is being a tolerant multicultural environment. The locals values family relationships and social being of every community. Respect for women especially the one in national dress is highly expected. That’s culture.

The residents prefer to go out by afternoon because of too much humidity outside. Few are walking outside except during cold season where picnicers are visible along parks and cornich. There are days that the sky turns fading red and windy and so dry. Thereafter came the sandstorm paving way to weather change. It means another season will come after summer, the winter. That’s climate.

Buses & taxis are under govt mngt. Bus is by time, taxis are few. It takes an hour or less to catch the cab. Most of us here are being provided of company service. Cars are affordable and low of maintenance. While water is much expensive than fuel! Common local cars are Land cruisers, Nissan Terras, FJ Cruiser, Prados type, grabe din kasi accident d2, fatal talaga. Wlang mga traffic enforcer dito. Monitored ito ng mga cameras. Bottom line, car is a big necessity. Fuels are very cheap anyway, ex. full tank costs Qr50 enough for a week consumption. That’s transportation.

Most of Qataris are well-to-do, their homes are called “villas”. They drive luxury cars. Enjoy great benefits from the govt; free consumption of water and electricity, healthcares and education(free in selected govt companies). Where most of them are employed by the govt and assumes high position. That’s social class.

Expats play a vital role of the booming economy of the state. Workers of diverse nationality and culture are increasing. They work and enjoy the fruits of thy labor. The food are far cheaper compared in the Phils. Salaries are tax free plus lodging, transpo and food allowances are being provided. Advice: save the best for last. Bahay, trabaho and a little socializing. The best part is, you can sort of afford of the things you cant afford to enjoy in the Phils; earn money, travel, buy cool stuffs, invest on properties etc. A computer is a BIG necessity diminishing the barrier against the great pang of homesickness. Friday is the equivalent of our Sunday weekend. Its our national day-off. Common expats clutter in remittance centers, rushing their own thing to groceries and other shops esp at the of the month. That’s expats.

So long my dear friends, I wish you well in the Philippines despite of the adversaries happening in our country. Let us press harder to PRAY for our government as devoted as moslems in their praying time. We could do more difference because the God we are believing in is the Sovereign GOD. Make all of these facts enlighten you of my absence. Till i see you again, Inshallah!

In Jesus love.