If you are trying to adjust to Doha then I suggest the first thing you do is learn to use discretion in your words and actions here in Qatar. You're not in Kansas anymore, Toto.

Now, that being said...take the 500 and divide it by 3.56 and you have the amount in US dollars. Or do what I do and divide it by 4 (its easier and close enough) Now take what you used to spend back in the States and multiply it by the 3.56 or 4...tell your husband that is what you used to spend. If he says its too much then cut back on your extraneous expenses. Its very easy.

Grant me the senility to forget the people I never liked,the good fortune to run into the ones I do,and the eyesight to tell the difference.