Contrary to much speculation the State of Qatar is not dry... But its not all that wet either. There is only one place in the whole country to buy booze. The place looks like Fort Knox when you pull in. As well, you need your boss' permission to get a photo Id pass card. As well, the card costs 1000QR or about 300 $ which mercifully you get back. There are restrictions however on the amount of alcohol you can buy each month! No more than 20 % of your monthly income! ...... I hope that never becomes a concern. Anyway, you can pay about 40$ for 24 beer and wine is about 20 to 25 $ for an ok bottle of wine. The store closes in a few days for the entire month of Ramadan... so everyone is stocking up, the place is crazy-hectic and its not that big! Shopping carts are more like bumper cars. The selection is good but... not a single bottle of Canadian beer to be found anywhere! (HEAVY SIGH)
Once you leave the alcohol must be concealed from view. You unload the booze behind closed gates.... etc.. Drinking and driving here is an obvious major no-no. I'm not sure what the penalty is (deportation?), but there is zero tolerence. It sounds like local house parties are definitely the way 2 go :)
2 comments:
All the Arab countries that "allow" drinking have strict rules. Dubai is the same except the card only costs $70. Everyone takes the don't drink and drive seriously. We always take a cab everywhere when we know we are going to drink. Deportation after jail is NO fun!
I am glad to see you are looking after the important things in life not just school things. Enjoy!
Hmmm I guess I should really enjoy the San Miguel Lite here in the Philippines! Only about a $1 in the bar, 50 cents at the store. Barry thanks for putting the time into your blog for us all to enjoy! I had a great summer teaching in China. Currently I am on holiday in the Philippines before returning to Michigan to teach in Waterford for another year. One year at a time. Gym White
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